The origin of the word vigil lamp
The word ‘vigil lamp’ (in Greek ‘kandili’) originates from the Latin word “candela”, meaning candle. In the Orthodox Christian Church, the vigil lamp is placed before holy icons as a sign of respect and honor towards our Lord Jesus Christ, the Virgin Mary and the Saints.
What the lit vigil lamp symbolizes in Orthodox faith
The vigil lamp itself represents the Church, which diffuses Divine mercy and illuminates the souls of the faithful. It is a symbol of the Divine Presence, purity, and hope.
Its continuous flame signifies spiritual enlightenment and fervent prayer rising to God.
At the same time, vigil lamps symbolize the Saints, whose Light shone in the world, in accordance with the Lord's words: «Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven». (Matthew 5:16)
Lighting the vigil lamp bears the profound symbolism of an offering of reverence and honor to God and His Saints.
The lit vigil lamp represents the Light of Jesus Christ, which illuminates every person who follows Him. Additionally, it symbolically serves the holy commandment of the Lord, whereby Christians are called to be the light of the world, spreading the divine light of faith and virtue to all humanity.
What the oil in the vigil lamp symbolizes
The oil in the vigil lamp symbolizes the boundless mercy of God. It reminds us of God's compassion, while the light of the vigil lamp calls us to live a life that is luminous and sanctified.
The oil used in vigil lamps should be olive oil, preferably of the highest quality. This is deeply connected to our faith, as our Lord Jesus Christ prayed in the Garden of Olives at Gethsemane.
The church, with its lit vigil lamps, becomes a new «garden», where Divine Mercy and the enlightenment of the Holy Spirit are imparted.
Which Vigil Lamp is Ever-burning or everlasting light
Special significance is attributed to the vigil lamp placed before the Crucified Jesus Christ within the Sanctuary, which remains perpetually lit and is thus called the «ever-burning vigil lamp», «sanctuary lamp», «altar lamp», everlasting light», or «eternal flame».
Vigil Lamp in the home’s iconostasis
According to Orthodox tradition, a vigil lamp is also placed in the home’s iconostasis (also known as iconostas or icon screen), lit daily as a symbol of devout prayer and the unceasing relationship of the faithful with God.
Orthodox Prayer while lighting the Vigil Lamp at home
What we say when lighting the vigil lamp
The prayer we can say when lighting the vigil lamp in our home is the following:
«Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.» (Matthew 5:16).
Find here: Orthodox Vigil Lights for the Home and Hanging Vigil Lamps
Why we light the vigil lamp in Christian Orthodox faith
Lighting the Vigil Lamp: The Light of Faith
The light from the vigil lamp we light reminds us of these words of Jesus Christ, as well as of eternal life.The life that springs from the undying light of our faith.
«I am the light of the world» (John 8:12)
The reasons for lighting the vigil lamp are as follows:
1. A reminder of the importance and necessity of prayer.
2. Illumination of the space, driving away darkness and the evil forces that may dominate it.
3. As a reminder that Jesus Christ is the only true Light, and faith in Him is the Light of life.
4. Lesson that life is filled with light, love, and goodness.
5. Reminder that our will must be offered as a sacrifice, burning away all selfishness and individualism.
6. It becomes a lesson that just as the vigil lamp requires the human hand to light it, so does our soul require divine intervention namely, the Grace of God.
7. As an expression of love toward God.
Find here: Standing Vigil Lamps in Various Designs
Vigil Lamp at graves of departed
Why we light a vigil lamp at the graves of the departed
At the graves of our loved ones, the lit vigil lamp serves as a symbol of deep devotion, respect, selfless love and care. Its ever-burning light offers relief and solace to the souls of the departed.
Along with other acts of devotion, such as memorial services and prayers, the vigil lamp contributes to their continuous spiritual repose, strengthening the hope for their inclusion in divine grace and salvation.
Thus, we light a vigil lamp at the grave of our loved one and pray for them to be found within Divine grace, hoping for the salvation of their soul.
Read also: Prayers for the Departed - What dates are All Souls Day?
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The Vigil Lamp as an Example of the Saints
The light of the vigil lamp illuminates the space, just as the lives of the Saints serve as a luminous example for every believer. As the Apostle Paul teaches, Christians are children of Light, a truth we must never forget.
By lighting the vigil lamp, we affirm that the departed carried the Light within them, while we pray for their rest and peace.
How the vigil lamp protects from dark thoughts
Everyone experiences moments of weakness, and dark thoughts may intrude upon the mind. The light of the vigil lamp helps us dispel such thoughts and focus on prayer, standing with reverence before the holy icons of Jesus Christ, Theotokos and the Saints.
The lit vigil lamp reminds us of the path of truth and faith, inspiring us to seek forgiveness and spiritual redemption for ourselves and the departed.
The light of the vigil lamp conceals a message of sacrifice
The oil of the vigil lamp is "sacrificed" to keep the flame alive, just as our Lord Jesus Christ sacrificed Himself to grant us eternal life. A lit vigil lamp at the grave symbolizes the salvation offered by the God-Man and the hope for the Resurrection of the dead.
At the same time, lighting the vigil lamp symbolizes the personal self-sacrifice that every believer is called to make. If we do not take it upon ourselves to light the vigil lamp, then the wick of our heart risks remaining unlit. Only by allowing God to enter our soul can we illuminate our lives and spiritually contribute to the salvation of our loved ones who have departed.
With humility and sincere prayer, we ask God for forgiveness for the departed, thus offering an act of love and hope.
Find here: Hanging Vigil Oil Lamps for Orthodox Churches and Homes
