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The Spiritual Physics of Light: How We See, Feel, and Know Truth
Light is everywhere. It gives us vision, keeps us warm, and facilitates life. Light is even responsible for developments in communications technology, the internet, and space travel. However, light is not just a physical concept. It is a central theme used throughout scripture to literally and metaphorically describe spiritual concepts. Throughout history, scientists have studied light physically and theologians have studied light spiritually. But what if these two realms of study were combined? What if the physical light we see is actually related to the spiritual light discussed in scripture? Can we apply what we know about light scientifically to what we know about light doctrinally? In this book, engineer, chemist, and professor Aaron D. Franklin explores these questions and more by connecting principles of physical light to gospel truths about spiritual light. In so doing, Franklin provides an accessible way for us all, no matter our scientific or doctrinal prowess, to learn how we see, feel, and know truth—which is, of course, light.
202 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 10, 2021
104 people are currently reading
544 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 94 reviews
December 21, 2021
This was so fascinating! Science is not my strong subject, but the author did a great job giving the basics in a way that even someone like me could understand it. I finished this last week, and I liked it so much I made my husband listen to it with me again during our six hour drive to the temple. It was just as good the second time, and my husband loved it too (and science IS his strong subject 😂).
August 12, 2021
Being an engineer and well acquainted with the physics of everyday light, I did not really enjoy this book. A lot of the book is spent explaining physics that I already understood, so I found myself wanting to fast-forward. The discussion of spiritual light contains much conjecture by the author. It seems that the author understands physical light and so he tries to force his understanding of spiritual light into that framework. I'm not convinced that the mentions of light in the scriptures are to be taken as literally as the author seems to take them. Could spiritual light function the way the author presents? Maybe. Maybe not. Until something on the subject is revealed through the prophets, I count the mechanisms through which spiritual light operates as something we don't need to understand intimately. Our faith and testimony should not depend on understanding it. The mentions of light in the scriptures may just be metaphors for things we cannot understand in our mortal frame. Or they may just be metaphors, full-stop. I don't believe that the mechanisms through which spiritual light operates are a deep secret, hidden in the scriptures that can only be teased out by the educated. Several thoughts from "Reflections of a Scientist" by Eyring came to mind while pondering this book. One was, "You can't intellectualize your way to a testimony." (Reflections of a Scientist, Eyring, pg. 47). To me, this is what "The Spiritual Physics of Light" is attempting to do.
June 24, 2025
So many great insights in this book on light and Christ being the life and the light! There were some parts in the beginning that had a lot of science and went over my head, but most of it was really understandable and I loved all the scriptures he brought out and some quotes from prophets. Here are my notes with highlights:
The unknown nature of what lurks in the dark leads many to seek to hide things they’re ashamed of “in the dark” so as to keep others from knowing about them.
Everything emits light at all times. One source for this constant radiation of light is heat.… A person with a body temperature of 98.6°F will have a distinctly different type of light than someone with a temperature of 102°. Consider the gospel significance of how everything, including every person, radiates a distinct type of light at all times. Pg 5
Light moves in a specific direction and it heats things pg 10
You can’t store light pg 12
Almost all the light we are able to scientifically detect and use is completely undetectable with the natural senses of our physical bodies 19
Where does light come from? 1) thermal radiation- when something hot immense light that is thermal radiation. When that light is visible, we call that thermal radiation incandescence. All lamps, fire, sunlight.
2) Electric discharge- storm, lightning strike
3) Luminescence- Glow sticks. Light is generated through the conversion of some form of energy.
Chapter 3
Every man, every person radiates what he or she is. “Every person is a recipient of radiation. The savior was conscious of that. He was conscious of the radiation from the individual… It is what we are and what we radiate that affects the people around us. President David o McCay.
Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good work and glorify your father, which is in heaven, Matthew 5:16
this teaching from the master is part commandment (let your light shine) and part doctrine( living the gospel results in light that shines from you and affects others) pg 31
A white object reflects all white, whereas one that is black absorbs all light.. asphalt and bare feet don’t play well together in the middle of summer in Arizona
The color of an object is determined by the light that it reflects, with white being a reflection of all visible light and black, being an absorption of all visible light and a reflection of no light pg 32-33
Spiritual light may not be visible to the natural eye or detectable by scientific equipment, but is radiated and even sensed in some fashion by our spirits
John 8:12 I’m the light of the world. He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.
He that Loves his brother abideth in the light and there is none occasion of stumbling in him” 1 John 2:10
“ that which is of God is light and he that receives light and continues in God receives more light and that light grows brighter and brighter until the perfect day. doctrine and covenant 50.:24
“Every time you turn your hearts to God and humble prayer, you experience his light. Every time you seek his word and will in the scriptures, the light grows in brightness. Every time you notice someone in need and sacrifice your own comfort to reach out in love, the light expands and swells. Every time you reject temptation and choose purity, every time you seek or extend forgiveness, every time you courageously testify of truth, the light chases away darkness and attracts others who are also seeking light and truth.” Uchtdorf, bearers of heavenly light
Robert d hales Had a bike where if he pedaled it made a light work.. I learned quickly that if I stopped peddling my bike, the light would go out. I also learned that when I was anxiously engaged in peddling, the light would become brighter and the darkness in front of me would be dispelled. 39
If you keep not my Commandments, the love of the father shall not continue with you. Therefore, you shall walk in darkness, doctrine and covenants 95:12
We must focus our spiritual light so that it will shine unto others thus maximizing the effect of our light in the same way we would focus a flashlight onto the path ahead of a fellow traveler when walking with them in a dark forest 54
Chapter 4 sensing light with our spirits
Just as we can feel and see some forms of light with our physical bodies, our souls seem to have similar capabilities. There are times when a person’s emotional pain is clearly perceivable, whether that person is depressed, upset, or concerned. There are powerful feelings of peace, reassurance, and comfort that we feel coming from certain individuals just by being near them. It could be said that some of these feelings are deduced from the words or actions of, or previous interactions with, the individual, yet there are times when these feelings are disturbed by nothing more than a person‘s presence. further, there are occasions when the lack of spiritual light from an individual is so palpable that feelings of discomfort will be generated in those around them. These feelings might alert one to escape from a potentially dangerous situation. 69
The more individuals learn truth, and choose to believe & obey that truth, the more light they will radiate that is associated with that truth. 71.
Just as our physical temperature changes when we are ill, our spiritual temperature and associated spiritual radiation seems also to be affected when we are spiritually unwell for any reason 73
Into the hands of every individual is given a marvelous power for good or for evil, the silent unconscious, unseen influence of his life. This is simply the constant radiation of what a man really is, not what he pretends to be. Every man, by his mere living, is radiating sympathy or sorrow or morbidness or cynicism or happiness or hope or any of 100 other qualities. Life is a state of constant radiation and absorption. To exist is to radiate. To exist is to be the recipient of radiations. Man cannot escape for one moment from this radiation of his character, this constantly weakening or strengthening of others. He cannot evade the responsibility by saying it is an unconscious influence. 74
Look for the light radiated by others… I don’t think it would hurt for us to try a little harder to see and acknowledge the light radiated from others. Doing so helps to keep us focused on the good in others, fueling their radiation of light rather than allowing the lack thereof to consume what remains of our relationship. 75.
Chapter 5 information within light
For some it is a gift of the spirit to be able to decipher insightful information from the light that others radiate 89
Chapter 6 light moving and burning
Light can cause something to burn. (Sunburns).
A proper realization of what will cause the burning of the Earth transforms the prophecies from threats to warnings and the Lord from ruthless to heartbroken.… To me, it is helpful to think that the destruction of the second coming is not the Lord carrying out revenge for disobedience, but rather a natural consequence based on the laws of light. I feel like the Savior knew this, and his prophets knew and know this as well. Hence, they’ve extensively, pleaded and prophesied regarding the need for us to prepare and be faithful and obedient that we may grow in our spiritual light And know that when the Lord shall appear, we shall be like him for we shall see him as he is. (1 John 3:2) Indeed, the veil of darkness shall soon be rent ( D&C 38:8), and we must be purified by and thus prepared to endure his light in order to abide the day.(Malachi 3:2)
Chapter 7 purifying power of light
UVGI is this one of the foremost water purification processes.
I propose a similar purifying power is possible with spiritual light. there are analogous impurities of the soul, ingested through sin or doubt, and the purifying power of light can cleanse us from these harmful contaminants. 111
As we draw closer to God, we can gain more light, even an increase in the light that we radiate. Consider what happens to your physical sight when you are in a dimly lit room, and the light is turned up to a higher intensity: greater discernment of your surroundings. Details of which you were previously unaware of suddenly become clear. The same outcome must be expected from an increase in our spiritual light: improved discernment of truth, and our spiritual surroundings, in short a more purified perspective.
John 1:5 “& the light shines in darkness and the darkness comprehends it not“ the light John is referring to is the savior. 113 (if you bring your flashlight into a dark room and shine it into someone’s eyes, they will not better comprehend their surroundings . But if you take your light and shine it around you, then you will be able to better see around you. You must have the light to see. Darkness doesn’t comprehend the light) 113
There are many effects of spiritual purification. One of these is an increase in our discernment of spiritual light, and with it coming to know the truth connected to that light… these truths and the light associated with them become a part of who we are in a way that cannot be taken from us.120
Chapter 8 see him as he is
“Our Adoration of Jesus is best expressed by our emulation of Jesus” Russell m Nelson
how can we come to know a master whom we have not served? We cannot. It is through our service and obedience to the Lord that we come to know him and emulate him, thus becoming like him to such a degree that when we sit at the proverbial easel to paint our portrait, we will see him as he is 1 John 3:2 (mentioned a painting of Mickey Mouse titled ‘ mickeys self portrait’ where he’s painting a canvas on an easel as he looks at his own reflection in the mirror which the portrait he’s painting is actually of his creator, Walt Disney) pg 124-125
Our focus determines what we see
We all radiate light, sense light, and through righteous living come to discern light. Untold amounts of information are able to be transported because of light. Light is also a physically formidable force with the ability to burn and even move things that are not able to withstand its power 129
God is light and in him is no darkness at all 1 John 1:5
To become like God would be to also be full of light and have no darkness at all. How do we become full of light?… The scriptures contain very specific doctrine, this is one of the rare teachings that is repeated almost Word for Word in the New Testament (twice,) the book of Mormon, and doctrine and covenants., “ the light of the body is the eye therefore when thine eye is single, the whole body also is full of light, but when thine eye is evil, the body also is full of darkness Luke 11:34
The light of the body is the eye, if therefore, thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light
3 nephi 13:22, Matthew 6:22
And if your eye be single to my glory, your whole body shall be filled with light, and there shall be no darkness in you and that body, which is filled with light comprehends all things . Doctrine and covenants 88:67
What does it mean to have your eyes single to the glory of God? Having an eye single to the glory of God starts with focusing on God.
President Nelson said, “ are you willing to let God prevail in your life? Are you willing to let God be the most important influence in your life? Will you allow his words, his commandments and his covenants to influence what you do each day? Will you allow his voice to take priority over any other? Are you willing to let whatever he needs you to do take precedence over every other ambition? Are you willing to have your will swallowed up in his?”
Spiritual brightness can often be detected by looking into a person‘s eyes. Luke 11:34
Our brightening light corresponds to knowing more truth as we chase away darkness , doubt and uncertainty. As our light goes brighter, we become ever more like our savior… Exposure to such an unimaginable brightness of light will have a consuming, destructive effect on all who have not come to discern that light for themselves. Meanwhile, for those who are prepared, whose light has grown brighter and brighter, what appears will not be a blinding, destructive, painful power but a warm, welcome and familiar light.141
Chapter 9 light of the world
Light is generated from some source. This is also related to the fact that light is a wave, which means it is always in motion. Waves cannot be stored, whether they are of light, ocean water, sound or anything else. 148.
The light of Christ is given to all of God‘s children, to give them direction as well as life. That light is through Christ because of his perfect love for us.… God‘s love is the tree of life and the fountain of living Waters, it is planted in the heart of all humankind, is inescapable and fills the immensity of space.153
John 9:24
Whether he be a sinner or no, I know not. One thing I know, that were as I was blind, and now I see.
Jesus will always find us… If we do not find him in the light, it will not be because he is not there, he’s familiar with shining in darkness and the darkness comprehending it not (doctrine and covenants 34:2)
when we meet our savior again, there’s one thing you can know for certain, there will be light and lots of it. The more familiar we are with that light, the better we will be able to abide it. 159
Christ is the light and without him we are in darkness
The unknown nature of what lurks in the dark leads many to seek to hide things they’re ashamed of “in the dark” so as to keep others from knowing about them.
Everything emits light at all times. One source for this constant radiation of light is heat.… A person with a body temperature of 98.6°F will have a distinctly different type of light than someone with a temperature of 102°. Consider the gospel significance of how everything, including every person, radiates a distinct type of light at all times. Pg 5
Light moves in a specific direction and it heats things pg 10
You can’t store light pg 12
Almost all the light we are able to scientifically detect and use is completely undetectable with the natural senses of our physical bodies 19
Where does light come from? 1) thermal radiation- when something hot immense light that is thermal radiation. When that light is visible, we call that thermal radiation incandescence. All lamps, fire, sunlight.
2) Electric discharge- storm, lightning strike
3) Luminescence- Glow sticks. Light is generated through the conversion of some form of energy.
Chapter 3
Every man, every person radiates what he or she is. “Every person is a recipient of radiation. The savior was conscious of that. He was conscious of the radiation from the individual… It is what we are and what we radiate that affects the people around us. President David o McCay.
Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good work and glorify your father, which is in heaven, Matthew 5:16
this teaching from the master is part commandment (let your light shine) and part doctrine( living the gospel results in light that shines from you and affects others) pg 31
A white object reflects all white, whereas one that is black absorbs all light.. asphalt and bare feet don’t play well together in the middle of summer in Arizona
The color of an object is determined by the light that it reflects, with white being a reflection of all visible light and black, being an absorption of all visible light and a reflection of no light pg 32-33
Spiritual light may not be visible to the natural eye or detectable by scientific equipment, but is radiated and even sensed in some fashion by our spirits
John 8:12 I’m the light of the world. He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.
He that Loves his brother abideth in the light and there is none occasion of stumbling in him” 1 John 2:10
“ that which is of God is light and he that receives light and continues in God receives more light and that light grows brighter and brighter until the perfect day. doctrine and covenant 50.:24
“Every time you turn your hearts to God and humble prayer, you experience his light. Every time you seek his word and will in the scriptures, the light grows in brightness. Every time you notice someone in need and sacrifice your own comfort to reach out in love, the light expands and swells. Every time you reject temptation and choose purity, every time you seek or extend forgiveness, every time you courageously testify of truth, the light chases away darkness and attracts others who are also seeking light and truth.” Uchtdorf, bearers of heavenly light
Robert d hales Had a bike where if he pedaled it made a light work.. I learned quickly that if I stopped peddling my bike, the light would go out. I also learned that when I was anxiously engaged in peddling, the light would become brighter and the darkness in front of me would be dispelled. 39
If you keep not my Commandments, the love of the father shall not continue with you. Therefore, you shall walk in darkness, doctrine and covenants 95:12
We must focus our spiritual light so that it will shine unto others thus maximizing the effect of our light in the same way we would focus a flashlight onto the path ahead of a fellow traveler when walking with them in a dark forest 54
Chapter 4 sensing light with our spirits
Just as we can feel and see some forms of light with our physical bodies, our souls seem to have similar capabilities. There are times when a person’s emotional pain is clearly perceivable, whether that person is depressed, upset, or concerned. There are powerful feelings of peace, reassurance, and comfort that we feel coming from certain individuals just by being near them. It could be said that some of these feelings are deduced from the words or actions of, or previous interactions with, the individual, yet there are times when these feelings are disturbed by nothing more than a person‘s presence. further, there are occasions when the lack of spiritual light from an individual is so palpable that feelings of discomfort will be generated in those around them. These feelings might alert one to escape from a potentially dangerous situation. 69
The more individuals learn truth, and choose to believe & obey that truth, the more light they will radiate that is associated with that truth. 71.
Just as our physical temperature changes when we are ill, our spiritual temperature and associated spiritual radiation seems also to be affected when we are spiritually unwell for any reason 73
Into the hands of every individual is given a marvelous power for good or for evil, the silent unconscious, unseen influence of his life. This is simply the constant radiation of what a man really is, not what he pretends to be. Every man, by his mere living, is radiating sympathy or sorrow or morbidness or cynicism or happiness or hope or any of 100 other qualities. Life is a state of constant radiation and absorption. To exist is to radiate. To exist is to be the recipient of radiations. Man cannot escape for one moment from this radiation of his character, this constantly weakening or strengthening of others. He cannot evade the responsibility by saying it is an unconscious influence. 74
Look for the light radiated by others… I don’t think it would hurt for us to try a little harder to see and acknowledge the light radiated from others. Doing so helps to keep us focused on the good in others, fueling their radiation of light rather than allowing the lack thereof to consume what remains of our relationship. 75.
Chapter 5 information within light
For some it is a gift of the spirit to be able to decipher insightful information from the light that others radiate 89
Chapter 6 light moving and burning
Light can cause something to burn. (Sunburns).
A proper realization of what will cause the burning of the Earth transforms the prophecies from threats to warnings and the Lord from ruthless to heartbroken.… To me, it is helpful to think that the destruction of the second coming is not the Lord carrying out revenge for disobedience, but rather a natural consequence based on the laws of light. I feel like the Savior knew this, and his prophets knew and know this as well. Hence, they’ve extensively, pleaded and prophesied regarding the need for us to prepare and be faithful and obedient that we may grow in our spiritual light And know that when the Lord shall appear, we shall be like him for we shall see him as he is. (1 John 3:2) Indeed, the veil of darkness shall soon be rent ( D&C 38:8), and we must be purified by and thus prepared to endure his light in order to abide the day.(Malachi 3:2)
Chapter 7 purifying power of light
UVGI is this one of the foremost water purification processes.
I propose a similar purifying power is possible with spiritual light. there are analogous impurities of the soul, ingested through sin or doubt, and the purifying power of light can cleanse us from these harmful contaminants. 111
As we draw closer to God, we can gain more light, even an increase in the light that we radiate. Consider what happens to your physical sight when you are in a dimly lit room, and the light is turned up to a higher intensity: greater discernment of your surroundings. Details of which you were previously unaware of suddenly become clear. The same outcome must be expected from an increase in our spiritual light: improved discernment of truth, and our spiritual surroundings, in short a more purified perspective.
John 1:5 “& the light shines in darkness and the darkness comprehends it not“ the light John is referring to is the savior. 113 (if you bring your flashlight into a dark room and shine it into someone’s eyes, they will not better comprehend their surroundings . But if you take your light and shine it around you, then you will be able to better see around you. You must have the light to see. Darkness doesn’t comprehend the light) 113
There are many effects of spiritual purification. One of these is an increase in our discernment of spiritual light, and with it coming to know the truth connected to that light… these truths and the light associated with them become a part of who we are in a way that cannot be taken from us.120
Chapter 8 see him as he is
“Our Adoration of Jesus is best expressed by our emulation of Jesus” Russell m Nelson
how can we come to know a master whom we have not served? We cannot. It is through our service and obedience to the Lord that we come to know him and emulate him, thus becoming like him to such a degree that when we sit at the proverbial easel to paint our portrait, we will see him as he is 1 John 3:2 (mentioned a painting of Mickey Mouse titled ‘ mickeys self portrait’ where he’s painting a canvas on an easel as he looks at his own reflection in the mirror which the portrait he’s painting is actually of his creator, Walt Disney) pg 124-125
Our focus determines what we see
We all radiate light, sense light, and through righteous living come to discern light. Untold amounts of information are able to be transported because of light. Light is also a physically formidable force with the ability to burn and even move things that are not able to withstand its power 129
God is light and in him is no darkness at all 1 John 1:5
To become like God would be to also be full of light and have no darkness at all. How do we become full of light?… The scriptures contain very specific doctrine, this is one of the rare teachings that is repeated almost Word for Word in the New Testament (twice,) the book of Mormon, and doctrine and covenants., “ the light of the body is the eye therefore when thine eye is single, the whole body also is full of light, but when thine eye is evil, the body also is full of darkness Luke 11:34
The light of the body is the eye, if therefore, thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light
3 nephi 13:22, Matthew 6:22
And if your eye be single to my glory, your whole body shall be filled with light, and there shall be no darkness in you and that body, which is filled with light comprehends all things . Doctrine and covenants 88:67
What does it mean to have your eyes single to the glory of God? Having an eye single to the glory of God starts with focusing on God.
President Nelson said, “ are you willing to let God prevail in your life? Are you willing to let God be the most important influence in your life? Will you allow his words, his commandments and his covenants to influence what you do each day? Will you allow his voice to take priority over any other? Are you willing to let whatever he needs you to do take precedence over every other ambition? Are you willing to have your will swallowed up in his?”
Spiritual brightness can often be detected by looking into a person‘s eyes. Luke 11:34
Our brightening light corresponds to knowing more truth as we chase away darkness , doubt and uncertainty. As our light goes brighter, we become ever more like our savior… Exposure to such an unimaginable brightness of light will have a consuming, destructive effect on all who have not come to discern that light for themselves. Meanwhile, for those who are prepared, whose light has grown brighter and brighter, what appears will not be a blinding, destructive, painful power but a warm, welcome and familiar light.141
Chapter 9 light of the world
Light is generated from some source. This is also related to the fact that light is a wave, which means it is always in motion. Waves cannot be stored, whether they are of light, ocean water, sound or anything else. 148.
The light of Christ is given to all of God‘s children, to give them direction as well as life. That light is through Christ because of his perfect love for us.… God‘s love is the tree of life and the fountain of living Waters, it is planted in the heart of all humankind, is inescapable and fills the immensity of space.153
John 9:24
Whether he be a sinner or no, I know not. One thing I know, that were as I was blind, and now I see.
Jesus will always find us… If we do not find him in the light, it will not be because he is not there, he’s familiar with shining in darkness and the darkness comprehending it not (doctrine and covenants 34:2)
when we meet our savior again, there’s one thing you can know for certain, there will be light and lots of it. The more familiar we are with that light, the better we will be able to abide it. 159
Christ is the light and without him we are in darkness
September 23, 2023
This was an interesting and profound book and very insightful. This was lent to me by a former institute teacher (which I now get to return it to in a few days haha) and I was able to listen to it on the Deseret Bookshelf app while following along and it's a book I'd highly recommend, hands down. Don't let the word Physics get in the way of you not wanting to pick this book up since I myself don't like science in any form, and yet, the author made things simple to understand some points he was getting at and it was just amazing. So glad I was able to borrow this book from a former teacher and one I definitely needed to know some things in here and some reminders as well which was perfect timing in a way for me. Now I can't think of light as the same way again after this book which is awesome!
January 11, 2022
I really liked this book! I have read A LOT of church books, I love church books, but I have never read a church book on this topic. I will never think of light the same way again. In fact, in studying the scriptures as I’ve been reading this, I find myself pondering over light way more than I ever have. I feel the same way as the author when he talks about science and God but he puts it so eloquently. I also love the focus he puts on Christ as the takeaway. This is a book I would like to re-read in the future.
August 19, 2022
Read more like a high school science professor sharing weird ideas in Sunday school than what I had hoped was more connective, well-cited, and exploratory.
There’s definitely some good science here, but almost all the spiritual connections to the science are so speculative and anecdotal with little doctrinal support for any conclusion.
In the end I wasn’t really inspired or enlightened but felt it wasn’t a wasted effort. There’s a lot more that can be tackled on this subject and I just wish that had gotten into the doctrine more.
There’s definitely some good science here, but almost all the spiritual connections to the science are so speculative and anecdotal with little doctrinal support for any conclusion.
In the end I wasn’t really inspired or enlightened but felt it wasn’t a wasted effort. There’s a lot more that can be tackled on this subject and I just wish that had gotten into the doctrine more.
July 28, 2022
This book, made me think about light, in a completely different way.
September 12, 2022
I love science and hearing all about the light that man knows and I love Jesus and hearing all about Him and His light
April 14, 2025
God has to follow physical laws when performing His miracles. I enjoy when a scientist use their understanding of the laws of science to help explain God’s spiritual laws. Definitely worth the read.
October 1, 2023
Spiritual Physics of Light is one of my top book recommendations. I tell everyone if all spiritual walks about it (even an atheist once who I genuinely thought would enjoy it. I don’t think he gave it a read).
The physics was fascinating and the gospel applications were speculative points I would love to ponder and discuss more. I don’t know how much of the spiritual aspects are true but I found them helpful in taking some of my next steps in the right direction toward Christ. And that is ultimately what counts.
Here are some of my takeaways (spoilers):
1. If man has discovered how to send endless data in a single photon, certainly God can send us endless knowledge, love, guidance, etc., instantaneously through spiritual light.
2. All people omit light that can travel to the other side of the world in a second. We can tune ourselves to the light of the people around us and across the world to be sensitive to their needs. Additionally, we can bless them by omitting light in their behalf.
3. Light has the power to destroy. When Christ comes, His light may be the source of the burning. If we are filled with his light before he comes we will be like him, be able to comprehend him, and withstand his light at His coming.
4. The strength of a lightbulb is determined by it’s resistor interrupting the flow of energy. The light from the Holy Ghost may not be a close or near process. Rather, he is always flowing full force, we just need to take down the resistors we have put in place.
5. The light we see is only a small portion of the types of light constantly surrounding us. Visual light is a type from which we can learn of Christ.
The physics was fascinating and the gospel applications were speculative points I would love to ponder and discuss more. I don’t know how much of the spiritual aspects are true but I found them helpful in taking some of my next steps in the right direction toward Christ. And that is ultimately what counts.
Here are some of my takeaways (spoilers):
1. If man has discovered how to send endless data in a single photon, certainly God can send us endless knowledge, love, guidance, etc., instantaneously through spiritual light.
2. All people omit light that can travel to the other side of the world in a second. We can tune ourselves to the light of the people around us and across the world to be sensitive to their needs. Additionally, we can bless them by omitting light in their behalf.
3. Light has the power to destroy. When Christ comes, His light may be the source of the burning. If we are filled with his light before he comes we will be like him, be able to comprehend him, and withstand his light at His coming.
4. The strength of a lightbulb is determined by it’s resistor interrupting the flow of energy. The light from the Holy Ghost may not be a close or near process. Rather, he is always flowing full force, we just need to take down the resistors we have put in place.
5. The light we see is only a small portion of the types of light constantly surrounding us. Visual light is a type from which we can learn of Christ.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 20, 2023
4.5 stars. This book explains the physical properties of light to help us understand its spiritual aspects. The physics of light were explained in simplified terms to make it accessible to those that are not scientifically-inclined. Even having a basic understanding of these physical properties makes the jump to spiritual understanding pretty natural. He offers two hypotheses on how we radiate and grow in spiritual light: 1-Spiritual energy fuels spiritual light; 2-Reaction to God’s light. Both describe an interaction between the Light of Christ, the Holy Ghost, and our righteous acts, which when working together increases the spiritual light we radiate (spiritual luminescence). My favorite insight from the book references the Second Coming where light will play a major role. Those who have grown in spiritual light will be able to endure His light and presence because they “shall be like him; for [they] shall see him as he is’” (1 John 3:2), while those who have not sought and lived by this light will not. (We shall see Him as He is—light, for we shall be like Him—filled with light…a light that will be warm, welcoming, and familiar). Thus, the warning about the destruction at the Second Coming isn’t punishment, but a plea to prepare ourselves to be able to endure the presence and light of Jesus Christ. I also liked the reminder that the Light of Christ is one way that He is always with us. Lastly, I loved his reminder to acknowledge the display of God’s love for us in the sunrises, sunsets, rays of sunshine, and rainbows (I feel this). Many insightful things to ponder and a great motivation to follow the promptings to do good so that I can be like the Savior and radiate more of His light/love.
Lots of notes:
-“I hypothesize that one function of the Light of Christ is to be the spiritual light source within each person’s soul—capable of filling us with life if we have the spiritual energy to fuel it.” p. 40
-“Every time you turn your hearts to God in humble prayer, you experience His light. Every time you seek His word and will in the scriptures, the light grows in brightness. Every time you notice someone in need and sacrifice your own comfort to reach out in love, the light expands and swells. Every time you reject temptation an choose purity, every time you seek or extend forgiveness, every time you courageously testify of truth, the light chases away darkness and attracts others who are also seeking light and truth.” -President Uchtdorf p. 38
-“When the gift of the Holy Ghost is obtained, we have within us access to the complete source of spiritual energy to bring the Light of Christ to its full brightness in our soul; thus making us like God who is light (see 1 John 1:5). Once the Holy Ghost is with us and power radiation from the Light of Christ, the only thing keeping us from turning into our own spiritual spotlight is our natural man which causes resistance to God.” p. 47
-“The first hypothesis interprets the Holy Ghost as being an energy source for generating the spiritual light that radiates from the Light of Christ within us, whereas the second hypothesis emphasized the propagation of the Light of Christ from a centralized, universal source that all people are exposed to and that all people react to based on having the Holy Ghost with them.” p. 49 (table comparing two hypotheses)
-“Faith emits a spiritual light, and that light is discernable.” -Elder Neil Anderson p. 59
-“Any good, moral person will radiate their goodness as they are influenced by the light of Christ…There does not need to be recognition of the source of radiated spiritual light in order for the light to be radiated…That said, the more individuals learn truth and choose to believe and obey that truth, the more light they will radiate that is associated with that truth.” p. 71
-“They may forget what you said—but they will never forget how you made them feel.” –Carl Buehner p. 73
-“The destruction at the Second Coming is not the Lord carrying out revenge for rebellion or disobedience but is rather a natural consequence based on the laws of light…Hence [the Savior and prophets] have extensively pleaded and prophesied regarding the need for us to prepare and be faithful and obedient so that we may grow in our spiritual light and know that ‘when [the Lord] shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is’ (1 John 3:2)…we must be purified by, and thus prepared to endure his light in order to ‘abide the day’ (Malachi 3:2).” p. 105
-“The same outcome must be expected from an increase in our spiritual light: improved discernment of truth and our spiritual surrounds; in short, a more purified perspective.” p. 113
-“For those who are prepared, whose light has grown brighter and brighter, what appears will not be blinding, destructive, painful power but a warm, welcome, and familiar light…if we are prepared, what we see coming from the East will be familiar, since it will be the very reflection of our own countenance (1 John 3:2).” p. 141
-“I believe that the sun has risen, not only because I see it, but because by it I see everything else.” -C.S. Lewis p. 151
-“The Light of Christ is one very crucial vehicle, or mechanism, for how the Atonement of Christ is able to reach the hearts and lives of all of God’s children and to provide succor to ‘his people according to their infirmities’ (Alma 7:12).” p. 152
-“The Light of Christ is given to all of God’s children, to give them direction as well as life. That light is through Christ because of this perfect love for us. Hence, God’s love and the Light of Christ are essentially synonymous, though the Light of Christ can often be a more tangible embodiment of his love.” -p. 153
-“We can increase our closeness to and understanding of God through observations of all of his light. Have you ever paused a moment amidst a hectic day to admire the grandeur of sunshine as it passes though the clouds? Or have you perhaps enjoyed a rainbow, that colorful manifestation of light that has been uniquely reflected and refracted by rain? No matter where you have lived in this would, you have undoubtedly has a front row seat to the majestic display of light that is offered during sunrise or sunset in a partly cloudy sky. All these manifestations of light are emblematic of God’s love—not his love of beauty or even his love of the world, but they represent his love for you and for me. I firmly believe they are as grand and intentional a witness of his love as any angelic manifestation.” p. 158
Lots of notes:
-“I hypothesize that one function of the Light of Christ is to be the spiritual light source within each person’s soul—capable of filling us with life if we have the spiritual energy to fuel it.” p. 40
-“Every time you turn your hearts to God in humble prayer, you experience His light. Every time you seek His word and will in the scriptures, the light grows in brightness. Every time you notice someone in need and sacrifice your own comfort to reach out in love, the light expands and swells. Every time you reject temptation an choose purity, every time you seek or extend forgiveness, every time you courageously testify of truth, the light chases away darkness and attracts others who are also seeking light and truth.” -President Uchtdorf p. 38
-“When the gift of the Holy Ghost is obtained, we have within us access to the complete source of spiritual energy to bring the Light of Christ to its full brightness in our soul; thus making us like God who is light (see 1 John 1:5). Once the Holy Ghost is with us and power radiation from the Light of Christ, the only thing keeping us from turning into our own spiritual spotlight is our natural man which causes resistance to God.” p. 47
-“The first hypothesis interprets the Holy Ghost as being an energy source for generating the spiritual light that radiates from the Light of Christ within us, whereas the second hypothesis emphasized the propagation of the Light of Christ from a centralized, universal source that all people are exposed to and that all people react to based on having the Holy Ghost with them.” p. 49 (table comparing two hypotheses)
-“Faith emits a spiritual light, and that light is discernable.” -Elder Neil Anderson p. 59
-“Any good, moral person will radiate their goodness as they are influenced by the light of Christ…There does not need to be recognition of the source of radiated spiritual light in order for the light to be radiated…That said, the more individuals learn truth and choose to believe and obey that truth, the more light they will radiate that is associated with that truth.” p. 71
-“They may forget what you said—but they will never forget how you made them feel.” –Carl Buehner p. 73
-“The destruction at the Second Coming is not the Lord carrying out revenge for rebellion or disobedience but is rather a natural consequence based on the laws of light…Hence [the Savior and prophets] have extensively pleaded and prophesied regarding the need for us to prepare and be faithful and obedient so that we may grow in our spiritual light and know that ‘when [the Lord] shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is’ (1 John 3:2)…we must be purified by, and thus prepared to endure his light in order to ‘abide the day’ (Malachi 3:2).” p. 105
-“The same outcome must be expected from an increase in our spiritual light: improved discernment of truth and our spiritual surrounds; in short, a more purified perspective.” p. 113
-“For those who are prepared, whose light has grown brighter and brighter, what appears will not be blinding, destructive, painful power but a warm, welcome, and familiar light…if we are prepared, what we see coming from the East will be familiar, since it will be the very reflection of our own countenance (1 John 3:2).” p. 141
-“I believe that the sun has risen, not only because I see it, but because by it I see everything else.” -C.S. Lewis p. 151
-“The Light of Christ is one very crucial vehicle, or mechanism, for how the Atonement of Christ is able to reach the hearts and lives of all of God’s children and to provide succor to ‘his people according to their infirmities’ (Alma 7:12).” p. 152
-“The Light of Christ is given to all of God’s children, to give them direction as well as life. That light is through Christ because of this perfect love for us. Hence, God’s love and the Light of Christ are essentially synonymous, though the Light of Christ can often be a more tangible embodiment of his love.” -p. 153
-“We can increase our closeness to and understanding of God through observations of all of his light. Have you ever paused a moment amidst a hectic day to admire the grandeur of sunshine as it passes though the clouds? Or have you perhaps enjoyed a rainbow, that colorful manifestation of light that has been uniquely reflected and refracted by rain? No matter where you have lived in this would, you have undoubtedly has a front row seat to the majestic display of light that is offered during sunrise or sunset in a partly cloudy sky. All these manifestations of light are emblematic of God’s love—not his love of beauty or even his love of the world, but they represent his love for you and for me. I firmly believe they are as grand and intentional a witness of his love as any angelic manifestation.” p. 158
August 21, 2021
Fantastic read. Dr. Franklin presents connections that he, a scientist and Latter-day saint, has made between the scientific data about light and the spiritual aspects of light. He hypothesizes that “all forms of light have spiritual significance and are influential on every person’s soul.”
What follows is an accessible lesson in physics (don’t worry, he’ll get you there) and how that tangible, knowable data relates/interacts with the many ways we refer to and use LIGHT within the Church.
As we know from prophets and apostles past, miracles happen in accordance with natural law. One of the major highlights of the book for me is a chapter where Franklin presents possible scientific explanations for miracles using the laws of light. Fascinating! He is continuously opening the mind and heart for deeper thought and understanding.
This is a quick but poignant read. I couldn’t put it down and find myself thinking of something I’d read almost daily since, as we experience on many levels, light is everywhere.
This book without a doubt has helped me on my journey of better understanding light (truth), which is and stems from THE Light, Jesus Christ.
What follows is an accessible lesson in physics (don’t worry, he’ll get you there) and how that tangible, knowable data relates/interacts with the many ways we refer to and use LIGHT within the Church.
As we know from prophets and apostles past, miracles happen in accordance with natural law. One of the major highlights of the book for me is a chapter where Franklin presents possible scientific explanations for miracles using the laws of light. Fascinating! He is continuously opening the mind and heart for deeper thought and understanding.
This is a quick but poignant read. I couldn’t put it down and find myself thinking of something I’d read almost daily since, as we experience on many levels, light is everywhere.
This book without a doubt has helped me on my journey of better understanding light (truth), which is and stems from THE Light, Jesus Christ.
April 14, 2023
BRIEF REVIEW
I loved this book! It was incredibly enlightening and edifying. Dr. Franklin's hypotheses and ideas resonate with me. The scientific details went over my head a couple of times; however, he gave clear and reiterated explanations, and I always understood the heart of the message. The audiobook version was great.
A couple of my favorite concepts are that Jesus Christ is the light of the world, and there is no one and nowhere He cannot reach; spiritual light radiates from each person; our spirit and spiritual light are REAL matter, simply imperceptible to our limited mortal senses; & our spiritual light can influence others'.
CONTENT
No 😘🙊🍷🤕!
FULL REVIEW available at https://betterbookbureau.weebly.com/r...
BOTTOM LINE
If you have an interest in the related concepts of spiritual and physical light, definitely check this book out. It will particularly appeal to members of @churchofjesuschrist. You don't have to be a scientist to appreciate the ideas presented here, but scientists will certainly appreciate them, as well!
I loved this book! It was incredibly enlightening and edifying. Dr. Franklin's hypotheses and ideas resonate with me. The scientific details went over my head a couple of times; however, he gave clear and reiterated explanations, and I always understood the heart of the message. The audiobook version was great.
A couple of my favorite concepts are that Jesus Christ is the light of the world, and there is no one and nowhere He cannot reach; spiritual light radiates from each person; our spirit and spiritual light are REAL matter, simply imperceptible to our limited mortal senses; & our spiritual light can influence others'.
CONTENT
No 😘🙊🍷🤕!
FULL REVIEW available at https://betterbookbureau.weebly.com/r...
BOTTOM LINE
If you have an interest in the related concepts of spiritual and physical light, definitely check this book out. It will particularly appeal to members of @churchofjesuschrist. You don't have to be a scientist to appreciate the ideas presented here, but scientists will certainly appreciate them, as well!
July 2, 2025
Profound. Franklin provides some insightful ways to understand spiritual light. Spiritual light isn’t visible but many types of light aren’t visible and yet are very real. Franklin provides helpful frameworks for understanding the Holy Spirit, the Light of Christ and Spiritual Light without pontificating and without condescension. After reading this book, the references to “light” in the scriptures make a lot more sense.
July 31, 2023
This was a well-meant gift from someone who knows how much I love both optics and the restored gospel. So I'm sorry to have to write this review.
First the physics. The author Aaron Franklin is an EE Professor from Purdue, and it is common for EE departments to teach optics. But Dr. Franklin clearly has never studied optics. Nor does he have much interest in natural optical phenomena. The sections that attempt to explain the science, phenomenology, and technology of light are full of non-trivial errors and omissions. Missing concepts include: refraction (how is it that light travels through matter); the complementary relationship between emissivity and absorptivity (without which the concept of blackbody emission comes across as nonsense rather than Planck's sublime physical insight); the concept of optical images (as distinguished from objects); the quantum-mechanical character of photons as bosons (an omission that explains the book's disinterest in laser technology); the phenomenon of dielectric breakdown (what really happens when you concentrate a beam of light); the concept and phenomena of optical coherence vs. incoherence; a wide variety of volume and surface scattering phenomena that define how the real world appears; the nature of color perceptions (how the retina as an extension of the brain converts an observed spectrum into colors); and general ignorance of surface optics (a straightforward extension of Maxwell's equations) which leads him to misinterpret observations of single-layer graphene. A major error is Dr. Franklin's claim that light can carry an unlimited quantity of information; this deeply disappointing in an EE who should have studied information theory and Shannon's theorem. At several points, Dr. Franklin grossly exaggerates the role of optical channels for modern information transmission; actually, purely electronic channels account for virtually all data processing and a great deal of communication.
Now the religion. Interest in theology is deeply embedded in the culture and teachings of the restored church. But to me, those who set themselves up as professional theologians invite the judgement of Louden Wainwright III: "theologians were last and practically least." Unfortunately, Dr. Franklin goes even further out on that limb with this work of speculative metaphysics in the style of Bruce R McConkie. The church's emphasis on temple worship gives most of us a healthy appreciation for the symbolic elements of worship and scripture, so that we are able to appreciate the use of the word light in a wide variety of contexts without insisting on a grand unified theory of scriptural rhetoric. We don't need to insist that every mechanism and medium of spirituality is a variety of EM radiation or an exact analog thereof. We recognize immediately the heresy in describing the divine personage of the Holy Spirit as a fuel. We believe that communication from God is not limited to the speed of light. We don't insist that lack of sensitivity to the unspoken thoughts and feelings of others (a mental limitation of autistic persons) indicates spiritual blindness. We naturally reject the suggestion that the spirit is a kind of thin-film optical coating over our physical body. And when I read a book on a topic with which I have some expertise, illustrated by scriptures that I love, yet filled with conclusions that are a mass of confusion, then I can recognize its source. Yes, the exact same deceitful source that insists that true light is merely a metaphor for Allah (p. 131).
First the physics. The author Aaron Franklin is an EE Professor from Purdue, and it is common for EE departments to teach optics. But Dr. Franklin clearly has never studied optics. Nor does he have much interest in natural optical phenomena. The sections that attempt to explain the science, phenomenology, and technology of light are full of non-trivial errors and omissions. Missing concepts include: refraction (how is it that light travels through matter); the complementary relationship between emissivity and absorptivity (without which the concept of blackbody emission comes across as nonsense rather than Planck's sublime physical insight); the concept of optical images (as distinguished from objects); the quantum-mechanical character of photons as bosons (an omission that explains the book's disinterest in laser technology); the phenomenon of dielectric breakdown (what really happens when you concentrate a beam of light); the concept and phenomena of optical coherence vs. incoherence; a wide variety of volume and surface scattering phenomena that define how the real world appears; the nature of color perceptions (how the retina as an extension of the brain converts an observed spectrum into colors); and general ignorance of surface optics (a straightforward extension of Maxwell's equations) which leads him to misinterpret observations of single-layer graphene. A major error is Dr. Franklin's claim that light can carry an unlimited quantity of information; this deeply disappointing in an EE who should have studied information theory and Shannon's theorem. At several points, Dr. Franklin grossly exaggerates the role of optical channels for modern information transmission; actually, purely electronic channels account for virtually all data processing and a great deal of communication.
Now the religion. Interest in theology is deeply embedded in the culture and teachings of the restored church. But to me, those who set themselves up as professional theologians invite the judgement of Louden Wainwright III: "theologians were last and practically least." Unfortunately, Dr. Franklin goes even further out on that limb with this work of speculative metaphysics in the style of Bruce R McConkie. The church's emphasis on temple worship gives most of us a healthy appreciation for the symbolic elements of worship and scripture, so that we are able to appreciate the use of the word light in a wide variety of contexts without insisting on a grand unified theory of scriptural rhetoric. We don't need to insist that every mechanism and medium of spirituality is a variety of EM radiation or an exact analog thereof. We recognize immediately the heresy in describing the divine personage of the Holy Spirit as a fuel. We believe that communication from God is not limited to the speed of light. We don't insist that lack of sensitivity to the unspoken thoughts and feelings of others (a mental limitation of autistic persons) indicates spiritual blindness. We naturally reject the suggestion that the spirit is a kind of thin-film optical coating over our physical body. And when I read a book on a topic with which I have some expertise, illustrated by scriptures that I love, yet filled with conclusions that are a mass of confusion, then I can recognize its source. Yes, the exact same deceitful source that insists that true light is merely a metaphor for Allah (p. 131).
August 22, 2021
It's fitting that the author invokes the name of Dr. Richard Feynman, the Nobel prize winning and Princeton educated physicist, in one of the earlier chapters of this book. Dr. Feynman was renowned for his ability to present extremely complex ideas in a very natural and intuitive way, one that his audience (often not physicists themselves) could easily understand. Aaron Franklin possesses this same skill. With a topic as "hefty" as this one, Franklin could have very easily lost his readers in a hurry with the lexicon and technical jargon common among scientists. Instead, he uses his "Feynmanian" gifts of teaching and explanation to present an absolute masterclass on the spiritual significance of light in our mortal experience (and beyond).
This seldom discussed and often overlooked doctrine is thoughtfully presented using scriptures, personal anecdotes, and the words of prophets, apostles, and the Savior himself, with the stated purpose of helping us all better recognize and understand truth. The breezy and conversational tone made it a fairly quick read, but the style and length certainly didn't diminish its significance. Many of the insights and shared experiences were particularly poignant and stuck with me long after I had finished reading. I was reminded of the fact that the light of Christ is literally God's love for us, and this light is the crucial vehicle for the transformative power of the Atonement of Jesus Christ.
I think this book can best be summarized by the following: Christ is light and without him we are in darkness. Such a simple statement with profoundly eternal significance. This is best illustrated in the book's final chapter, when the author shares his unique insights of the 9th chapter of John. His use of non-scriptural liberties in describing the context of the event as well as the portrayal of the tender exchange between the blind man and the Savior is very "Jeffrey Holland-esque" and opened my eyes to the role of light for both the healer and the healed. It was a powerful reminder that all of us need the Savior's light to rescue us from our own blindness. Don't be intimidated by the title - this book is for everyone. I can't recommend it enough!
This seldom discussed and often overlooked doctrine is thoughtfully presented using scriptures, personal anecdotes, and the words of prophets, apostles, and the Savior himself, with the stated purpose of helping us all better recognize and understand truth. The breezy and conversational tone made it a fairly quick read, but the style and length certainly didn't diminish its significance. Many of the insights and shared experiences were particularly poignant and stuck with me long after I had finished reading. I was reminded of the fact that the light of Christ is literally God's love for us, and this light is the crucial vehicle for the transformative power of the Atonement of Jesus Christ.
I think this book can best be summarized by the following: Christ is light and without him we are in darkness. Such a simple statement with profoundly eternal significance. This is best illustrated in the book's final chapter, when the author shares his unique insights of the 9th chapter of John. His use of non-scriptural liberties in describing the context of the event as well as the portrayal of the tender exchange between the blind man and the Savior is very "Jeffrey Holland-esque" and opened my eyes to the role of light for both the healer and the healed. It was a powerful reminder that all of us need the Savior's light to rescue us from our own blindness. Don't be intimidated by the title - this book is for everyone. I can't recommend it enough!
November 11, 2023
Aaron Franklin, a professor of electrical and computer engineering and chemistry, explores the connections between scientific and gospel principles of light, drawing from both physical and spiritual perspectives. I loved the examples he uses from scripture, history, and modern technology to illustrate how light is not only a physical phenomenon, but also a metaphor for truth, knowledge, and divine influence.
As a self-proclaimed logical thinker, I laud the division of information into three parts: Seeing Light, Feeling Light, and Knowing Light. The structure provided an elegant roadmap through the information that was presented, and throughout each section, Franklin described his findings in a way that pointed the reader toward divine knowledge and toward Jesus Christ through the Holy Ghost. He writes in a clear and engaging style, using analogies, stories, and diagrams to make complex concepts accessible and relatable, though I must admit that some of the analogies and stories that were meant to help with understanding still went over my head.
The book is a valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the physical and spiritual aspects of light, and how they can enhance their faith and understanding of the gospel. Although it's clear that the target audience is other members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, anyone who is genuinely seeking answers to inspired questions would greatly benefit from reading this book. It is truly a testament to the harmony of science and religion, and the importance of seeking truth from both sources.
As a self-proclaimed logical thinker, I laud the division of information into three parts: Seeing Light, Feeling Light, and Knowing Light. The structure provided an elegant roadmap through the information that was presented, and throughout each section, Franklin described his findings in a way that pointed the reader toward divine knowledge and toward Jesus Christ through the Holy Ghost. He writes in a clear and engaging style, using analogies, stories, and diagrams to make complex concepts accessible and relatable, though I must admit that some of the analogies and stories that were meant to help with understanding still went over my head.
The book is a valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the physical and spiritual aspects of light, and how they can enhance their faith and understanding of the gospel. Although it's clear that the target audience is other members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, anyone who is genuinely seeking answers to inspired questions would greatly benefit from reading this book. It is truly a testament to the harmony of science and religion, and the importance of seeking truth from both sources.
April 18, 2025
Mercifully, this was short.
I liked the idea here and understood a lot of what the author shared. Something just didn’t click for me. But, a fascinating concept.
This is probably the 3rd go for me and the physics of light. I now think my brain just doesn’t work when it comes to physics 😁 I can appreciate things taught and kind of get some things, but, mostly, I can’t wrap my head around it.
I kept feeling like this could have been a paper or 1 hour lecture and I would have got the same amount from it.
Some quotes:
Because each of us has a distinct spirit, we can undoubtedly receive information from spiritual light that is specifically intended for us. (Using the comparison of cell phones receiving info specifically for that phone.)
Clarifying that the real light is God and that the name ‘light’ for everything ese is sheer metaphor, without reality.
Jesus will always find us.
I liked the idea here and understood a lot of what the author shared. Something just didn’t click for me. But, a fascinating concept.
This is probably the 3rd go for me and the physics of light. I now think my brain just doesn’t work when it comes to physics 😁 I can appreciate things taught and kind of get some things, but, mostly, I can’t wrap my head around it.
I kept feeling like this could have been a paper or 1 hour lecture and I would have got the same amount from it.
Some quotes:
Because each of us has a distinct spirit, we can undoubtedly receive information from spiritual light that is specifically intended for us. (Using the comparison of cell phones receiving info specifically for that phone.)
Clarifying that the real light is God and that the name ‘light’ for everything ese is sheer metaphor, without reality.
Jesus will always find us.
March 20, 2022
This was an absolutely fascinating read! I loved learning so much about the physics of light and some of its capabilities. Years ago, my chemistry professor said that he had a theory that within that light spectrum, in the invisible light, is where we are able to see heavenly messengers. When an engineer recommended this book to me, I was intrigued. I learned so much, and it was even better than he had claimed it to be. I loved the insight about the light of Christ and how we can better understand that through physics. I love the ending where Franklin says that Christ is the light, and the more experience we have with that light, the more accustomed to it we are, the better we will be able to abide his coming and know him rather than having to shirk away from or be burned by his light. It’s my favorite read so far this year!
September 18, 2022
I listened to the author talk about his book in an interview on the All In podcast and really looked forward to reading it. However. The podcast covered all the good parts, and I struggled with the audiobook. The Preface and first chapter spent a lot of time trying to convince the reader to appreciate the topic--I'm already intrigued; I'm reading the book; get on with it. Then chapter two dove deep into physics and almost lost me completely. I generally enjoy science books, but this one didn't do it for me. I may like the book more if I had a hard copy instead of the audiobook and couple more easily skim some parts and flip to the things I wanted to go more deeply into. There are some neat correlations between physical light and spiritual light. Search the scriptures and see what you find. The end.
January 5, 2022
I absolutely love this. I think this is one of the most powerful and most important spiritual books I have read in a long time. What I love about this book is it's not frivolous deep doctrine, questions that don't pertain to our salvation, but this was real pertinent information that helps our progression and helps become closer to the savior. I love the science aspect and I love the spiritual aspect. I think this author brought up some amazing points and is really on the something. The science part is a little heavy-handed and there are moments I didn't know if I'd keep going, it wasn't unbearable... It just not what I was used to, but needed and... Just wow. I just love this book. This will be one I will be studying. He really touched on a very interesting truth in the gospel. Highly recommend this.
October 25, 2022
What a neat book! The author speaks about the scientific aspects of light, and how the principles that govern it can be applied to spiritual light. There were so many great insights and things to think about. And the authors writing style was perfect - scientific in nature, but also very personable and easy enough to understand (some of the science is far beyond me still, I must admit). And he was very careful to stay focused on the core doctrines of the gospel, and very clear that much of what he talks about are mere theories for how things *might* work, while ultimately bringing the reader's focus exactly where it ought to be, on Christ and His atonement. This is a book I'll ponder for a long time.
December 5, 2021
This book definitely opens up some points to ponder on. I’ve personally believed for a long time that much of creation and what we call priesthood power is simply the application of physics and the laws of nature so reading this book really heightened my interest in the subject. The author makes clear that these are ideas to ponder and not definitive ‘truths.’ He also definitely speaks to the importance of the Holy Ghost and his role in conversion and building of testimony. I walked away with a new paradigm through which to see the scriptures and modern prophets when they speak of light. Great book!
November 4, 2022
“Drawing closer to God reduces our resistance to the Holy Ghost and increases the brightness of the light of Christ radiating from within us”
We need more
*faith
*obedience
*submissiveness
*eye single to God’s glory
“If, as mortals, we have managed to figure out how to use light to communicate from long distances, what sort of capabilities does God have with light…if I can press a few buttons on my cell phone and within moments have a live conversation with someone halfway around the world, is it not perfectly reasonable to embrace God’s ability to hear our prayerful communications and to readily answer them.”
We need more
*faith
*obedience
*submissiveness
*eye single to God’s glory
“If, as mortals, we have managed to figure out how to use light to communicate from long distances, what sort of capabilities does God have with light…if I can press a few buttons on my cell phone and within moments have a live conversation with someone halfway around the world, is it not perfectly reasonable to embrace God’s ability to hear our prayerful communications and to readily answer them.”
June 19, 2024
An interesting exploration of the connections between physical and spiritual light. Did a lot of the science explained here go over my head? Yep. But I don’t fault the author for that. It’s not easy to take complex scientific topics and explain them simply enough for a mainstream audience. The book is made up of these scientific explanations mixed with scriptural and others sources and a lot of personal speculation. The science might be too drawn out for some, the author’s speculation and conclusions problematic for others. I think it’s helpful to go into the book with that in mind. Overall it was thought provoking and I’m happy to have read it.
September 29, 2024
Likes:
. Perhaps most of all I appreciate the questions posed.
. And I appreciate the open-to-suggestion potential answers. They seem offered fully aware of the potential for greater insight as truth becomes revealed.
. His insights and wonderings square with and expand upon my own musings on the subject(s).
Dislikes:
. None
Long have I been taken with the notion of a universal, unifying truth. I believe the Atonement is that. More than an event. More than a manifestation of any phenomenon or phenomena. More than a manifestation of any characteristic or set of such. More than … words may describe.
. Perhaps most of all I appreciate the questions posed.
. And I appreciate the open-to-suggestion potential answers. They seem offered fully aware of the potential for greater insight as truth becomes revealed.
. His insights and wonderings square with and expand upon my own musings on the subject(s).
Dislikes:
. None
Long have I been taken with the notion of a universal, unifying truth. I believe the Atonement is that. More than an event. More than a manifestation of any phenomenon or phenomena. More than a manifestation of any characteristic or set of such. More than … words may describe.
September 7, 2025
Aaron D. Franklin’s The Spiritual Physics of Light creatively bridges science and faith by showing how physical properties of electromagnetic light can illuminate spiritual truths. With clarity and warmth, Franklin invites us—regardless of scientific background—to explore how light empowers our vision, feelings, and understanding of divine truth. I know the editing and publishing staff at the Religious Studies Center (they are colleagues of mine). They told me that this book has sold remarkably well and have been very pleased by its popularity. It was for this reason that I decided I better read it and see what the all fuss was about. I am happy I did.
August 27, 2021
One of the big problems with being ‘scientific’ is that the person then dresses their own ideas in the supposed garb of science and shoots way beyond the mark. In science you can experiment and prove or disprove your suppositions. The danger here is that you can’t do that. You have to take it on faith and then what’s the point since the source is unreliable and unverifiable. You might find something of worth here but don’t set too much stock in it. It might look cute but it is all speculative.
February 8, 2022
An interesting book on light, energy, spiritual connection all made within the parameters of the Latter-day Saint faith. I found this to be written in an engaging way that helped me understand some of the physics of energy and light in a way that didn’t make me zone out.
I also will sit with some of the impressions and interpretations this author made that have made me think. I loved listening to the audiobook.
This is definitely a spiritual book with science added more than scientific study.
I also will sit with some of the impressions and interpretations this author made that have made me think. I loved listening to the audiobook.
This is definitely a spiritual book with science added more than scientific study.
March 2, 2022
Plenty of light - not enough physics. Besides the title, this really has no ties to the science of physics.
I use ratings to decide which books I am going to buy, and I recently decided I am partially responsible for inflating the ratings on books. Either they were 5 star or 1 star. I decided to use the star rating more objectively as follows:
★★★★★ Great book! Can’t wait to read it again (and I will).
★★★★☆ Good book. I am glad I read this.
★★★☆☆ OK book. Nothing special but not bad.
★★☆☆☆ Not good. Why did I waste my time?
★☆☆☆☆ Lousy. I didn’t finish.
I use ratings to decide which books I am going to buy, and I recently decided I am partially responsible for inflating the ratings on books. Either they were 5 star or 1 star. I decided to use the star rating more objectively as follows:
★★★★★ Great book! Can’t wait to read it again (and I will).
★★★★☆ Good book. I am glad I read this.
★★★☆☆ OK book. Nothing special but not bad.
★★☆☆☆ Not good. Why did I waste my time?
★☆☆☆☆ Lousy. I didn’t finish.
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