'The stars of the heavens,' as in Genesis 22:17, signify spiritual people. Throughout the Word, these people are compared to stars from the knowledge of good and truth which they possess. This is not the case with celestial people, because they do not have knowledge, but perception. Stars lighten the night because the light which the spiritual enjoy is a kind of nocturnal light, like from the moon and the stars, compared to the midday light which the celestial enjoy.

(References: Arcana Coelestia 2849)