The candle is a very powerful symbol in the human consciousness. There is something about that little point of light, flickering, existing and resisting a dark and empty world, that speaks to the deepest part of the human soul. This is one of the reasons why candles have such deep meaning in so many disparate religions around the world.
Judaism
The candle is a powerful symbol in Judaism, and every Friday night one is lit to celebrate the beginning of the weekly Sabbath. On Saturday night, a Havdalah candle is lit to mark the end of the Sabbath. Candles are also used in the Hanukkah ceremony, where a candle is lit every evening for eight nights, to commemorate the candle that miraculously burned for eight days when the Jews recaptured their temple from the Greek/Persian invaders. For the Jewish people, the candle flame represents the ever-burning flame of the divine being.
A candle is also used in Judaism to commemorate those who have passed away, and is often lit to commemorate a loved one or those who died tragically, such as in the holocaust.
Christendom
In Christianity the candle is used for both religious and decorative purposes. In its decorative function, it is a representation of the light of the Creator, or specifically of the light of Jesus. For this reason, you will often find a candle lit and placed on an altar. Ritually, candles are often lit and placed in front of images of icons in the Orthodox tradition. A votive candle can also be lit to accompany the prayer. Some churches also use a Paschal candle that represents Jesus, and it is only lit at Easter and other very special occasions.
Buddhism
In Buddhism, candles are often placed in front of Buddha statues along with food or drink as a sign of respect. Symbolically they represent the light of the Buddha’s teachings and the enlightenment they added to the world.
Hinduism
In the Hindu tradition, a diya, or clay lamp, is a very important part of any religious ritual. The lamp holds the candle during the ceremony and acts as a symbol of prosperity and enlightenment. Every year they also celebrate Diwalli, also known as the festival of light. In this festivity, lamps are lit that symbolize life and hope and the conquest of good over evil.
The symbolic nature of a candle gives it meaning in many of the world’s major religions. Whether it symbolizes the ultimate creator or the hope of mankind, its flickering light is an inspiration to many who behold its radiance.
