Religious Candles: An Age Old CustomUsing candles for religious or spiritual purposes is a tradition that dates back as far as the history of candles themselves. Even today, nothing can come close to the deep and moving symbolism of a burning candle.
There are several types of religious candles and the combination of fire and light holds meaning for a variety of spiritual practices and religions. The melting wax and effervescent fragrance of a votive candle, for example, represents sacrifice or commitment is a timeless Christian symbol of sacrifice and commitment, while in Buddhist tradition, a candle's light represents absolute truth and purity. Likewise, the flames of candles used in Christian tradition also represent purity, as well as the presence of God.
Almost any style of unscented or scented candle can be used as a religious candle, though tapers, pillars and votives are the most commonly used. Unscented white taper candles are often used as altar pieces and smaller tapers are frequently lit to represent hope and faith. Hand-held tapers are also used for keeping vigil or 'watch' in times of concern or anxiety, and small tapers are often used as prayer candles in Catholic churches.
Larger, pillar-style candles in glass containers are another form of prayer candle. Many of these candles are dedicated to a particular saint, and the lighting of that candle represents a prayer and an offering to that saint. These unscented, long-burning candles (some burn for as many as 60 hours) are often used for home altars and prayers. |
