"The form given to this berachah is indeed noteworthy. It is not "that You have give us the light of day," but "that You have given us the intelligence to distinguish between day and night." This blessing really expresses our gratitude for the gift of intelligence. Nevertheless, it does not refer to intelligence in general, but to our ability to make distinctions, which in fact is the basis and foundation of all knowledge." (— Rabbi Elie Munk, World of Prayer)
Click here to hear Part II, for a deep dive continuation on "...asher Nassan LaSechvi Vinah".