Adam Clarke on John 1:5

And the light shineth in darkness - By darkness here may be understood:

1. The heathen world, Eph 5:8.

2. The Jewish people.

3. The fallen spirit of man.

Comprehended it not - Αυτο ου κατελαβεν, Prevented it not - hindered it not, says Mr. Wakefield, who adds the following judicious note: - "Even in the midst of that darkness of ignorance and idolatry which overspread the world, this light of Divine wisdom was not totally eclipsed: the Jewish nation was a lamp perpetually shining to the surrounding nations; and many bright luminaries, among the heathen, were never wanting in just and worthy notions of the attributes and providence of God's wisdom; which enabled them to shine in some degree, though but as lights in a dark place, 2Pet 1:19. Compare Act 14:17; Act 17:28, Act 17:29."