Phosphoros literally means 'light-bearer' or 'light-bringer' and was the Greek name for the planet Venus when it appeared as the morning star, heralding the dawn. Peter uses this term metaphorically to describe the risen Christ or the prophetic word: until the day dawns and the morning star rises in believers' hearts. Classical literature applied it to various dawn-bringing deities, but Peter's usage transforms it into a symbol of Christ's illuminating presence or the spiritual enlightenment that comes through the prophetic message confirmed by Christ's resurrection.