also: こうめい
noun
bright light; radiance
Refers to a literal, shining light, often with a positive or hopeful connotation.
トンネルを抜けると、前方に光明が見えた。
After exiting the tunnel, a bright light was visible ahead.
noun
Metaphorical use: a hopeful prospect or a sign of improvement in a difficult situation. Often used in expressions like 光明を見出す (find a ray of hope).
この研究が難病治療の光明となるかもしれない。
This research may become a ray of hope for treating the intractable disease.
長い不況の後、ようやく景気回復の光明が見えてきた。
After a long recession, a glimmer of hope for economic recovery has finally appeared.
noun
Buddhist light of wisdom and compassion
Buddhist term for the spiritual light emanating from a buddha or bodhisattva, symbolizing their enlightened wisdom and compassion.
仏像の後ろに描かれた光明は、仏の智慧を表している。
The halo of light depicted behind the Buddha statue represents the Buddha's wisdom.