The rising and setting of the sun is a recurring theme in the Bible, symbolizing the passage of time, the constancy of God's creation, and the rhythm of life ordained by the Creator. This natural phenomenon is often used metaphorically to convey spiritual truths and divine principles.

Creation and Order

The sun's daily journey across the sky is first established in the creation narrative. In Genesis 1:14-18, God creates the "greater light" to govern the day, setting in motion the celestial order that marks time: "And God said, 'Let there be lights in the expanse of the sky to separate the day from the night, and let them serve as signs to mark seasons and days and years.'" (Genesis 1:14). The sun's rising and setting are integral to this divine order, reflecting God's sovereignty over creation.

Symbol of God's Faithfulness

The regularity of the sun's cycle is a testament to God's faithfulness and unchanging nature. In Lamentations 3:22-23, the prophet Jeremiah draws a parallel between the sun's daily rise and God's steadfast love: "Because of the LORD’s loving devotion we are not consumed, for His mercies never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness." . The predictability of the sunrise serves as a daily reminder of God's enduring mercy and reliability.

Human Life and Mortality

The sun's cycle is also used to illustrate the brevity and transience of human life. In Ecclesiastes 1:5, Solomon observes, "The sun rises and the sun sets; it hurries back to where it rises." . This cyclical pattern underscores the repetitive and fleeting nature of human existence, prompting reflection on life's purpose and the pursuit of eternal wisdom.

Divine Judgment and Renewal

The rising and setting of the sun can symbolize both judgment and renewal. In Malachi 1:11, the prophet speaks of a time when God's name will be great among the nations, "For from the rising of the sun to its setting, My name will be great among the nations, and in every place incense and pure offerings will be presented in My name." . This passage anticipates a future where God's glory is universally acknowledged, spanning the entire earth.

Christ, the Light of the World

In the New Testament, the imagery of light and the sun is often associated with Jesus Christ. While not directly referencing the sun's rising and setting, John 8:12 records Jesus' declaration, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows Me will never walk in the darkness, but will have the light of life." . Here, Christ is portrayed as the spiritual light that dispels darkness, offering guidance and salvation to all who believe.

Eternal Perspective

The sun's daily journey serves as a metaphor for the eternal perspective that believers are encouraged to adopt. Psalm 113:3 exhorts, "From the rising to the setting of the sun, the name of the LORD is to be praised." . This call to worship reflects the understanding that God's worthiness transcends time and circumstance, inviting continuous adoration and reverence.

In summary, the rising and setting of the sun in the Bible is a multifaceted symbol that conveys God's order, faithfulness, and the temporal nature of human life, while also pointing to the hope of renewal and the eternal light found in Christ.