Erhellung

Erhellung is a German noun meaning illumination or enlightenment. It is formed from the verb erhellen, which means to illuminate, brighten, or clarify. The term can refer to physical lighting as well as to the figurative process of making something clear to the understanding.

In everyday and optical usage, Erhellung describes the act of brightening a space or an image, for example the Erhellung eines Raums or the better Erhellung eines Bildes. Figuratively, it can denote the unveiling of insight or the clarification of a question or problem.

In philosophy, theology, and literary contexts, Erhellung can signify the awakening of understanding or a sense of revelation. It is often used to convey a moment of clarity, insight, or spiritual illumination. However, it is less common as a technical term for broader intellectual movements.

Historical and terminological note: the standard German term for the Enlightenment as a historical period is Aufklärung. Die Erhellung is sometimes used to describe acts of illumination or moments of insight within broader discussions, but it does not typically serve as a replacement for Aufklärung when referring to the 18th‑century movement. Erleuchtung is more commonly associated with spiritual or mystical illumination, whereas Erhellung emphasizes making things clear or bright in a more immediate sense.

See also: Aufklärung, Erleuchtung, Licht, illumination.