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John 1:9
ESV The true light, which gives light to everyone, was coming into the world.
NIV The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world.
NASB This was the true Light that, coming into the world, enlightens every person.
CSB The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world.
NLT The one who is the true light, who gives light to everyone, was coming into the world.
KJV That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world.

What does John 1:9 mean?

Light is a symbol of life, knowledge, and goodness. In verse 9, we are reminded that Jesus is the "true light." "True" here is from the potent Greek word alethinos. This means something "equal in every possible respect, sharing the same nature and reality." In other words, Christ is the "one and only, absolutely perfect, real and true light." This is something Jesus will echo in John 14:6, by claiming to be "the way, the truth, and the life," exclusively. There is no room to see Jesus as one way to heaven, or a possible way. He is the one and only, real and true way. Unlike the law of Moses, which was given only to the people of Israel, this light is given to everyone—to the entire world. The best-known verse in the entire Bible, John 3:16, sums this up by saying that God loved the entire world enough to send His Son for the salvation of anyone who believes in Him. Not all people will choose to accept that light, however. Some will deliberately stay in the dark.
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