The Father of Lights

In the first chapter of James, a deeply mystical idea is concealed within a seemingly simple statement. When we analyze the framework of his teachings, we find a strong affinity with later works of the Kabbalah.

All generous giving and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or the slightest hint of change.
- James 1:17

James teaches that everything ultimately comes from the Father. Even things that challenge us, or negative experiences. He reminds us, this is because we have a limited perspective. When we look around, we see a world of duality; good and evil. However, from the perspective of the Creator, all is light and all is in control.

John also reaffirms this concept.

Now this is the gospel message we have heard from him and announce to you: G_D is light, and in him there is no darkness at all. - 1 John 1:5

We see this in the Psalms, although, seemingly a simple metaphor, we may now see the depth concealed in this passage. Take a moment to ponder this idea.

even the darkness is not dark to you; the night is bright as the day, for darkness is as light with you. - Psalm 139:12

Sefirot = Lights

James seems to posses a deep understanding of the Sefirot, the hidden scaffolding of the Divine cosmology. The Sefirot are often referred to as emanations, or different attributes of G_D. Though these are complex and can take some time master, they were part of the first century Jewish worldview, framing the paradox of how a supernal being (G_D) could interact with the natural world.

In perhaps the oldest text of the Kabbalah, Sefer Yetzirah, we read:

Ten sefirot of nothingness, ten not nine. Ten not eleven. - Sefer Yetzirah 1:4