What the candle symbolizes in Orthodox faith
The candle is a profoundly symbolic element of the Christian faith and Orthodox worship, representing the Light of Jesus Christ, the flame of faith and the spiritual journey of every believer toward Salvation.
Its purity and pliability reflect the sanctity and “flexibility” of our soul. Just as a candle melts silently while giving light, so too should we, with the grace of God, "melt" in quiet self-sacrifice for others, guided by the love of Christ.
The pure beeswax candles symbolize the human nature of Jesus Christ, which was born of the Ever-Virgin Mary.
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What the candle represents in the Church
Lighting a candle is a deeply significant act of worship, firmly rooted in the spiritual life of the Orthodox Church. It is not a mere ritual or custom but a holy gesture filled with meaning, inviting every believer to regard it with the proper respect.
A candle placed within the holy space of the church symbolizes the risen Jesus Christ, standing upright and burning with light in the candelabra. At the same time, it expresses our confession of faith in our own resurrection.
How many candles should we light in Church
When entering the Church, the faithful are encouraged to light one candle at candelabra for the living and one more for the departed, expressing their prayers and remembrance.
In special circumstances, when some of the living face significant challenges or trials, it is beneficial to dedicate individual candles for each person.
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What should we say when lighting a candle in the Church
According to Christian tradition, lighting a candle should always be accompanied by heartfelt prayer. For the living, we pray for God’s mercy and protection, while for the departed, we ask for His compassion and eternal salvation for their souls.
A Prayer when lighting a candle
When lighting the candle, the faithful can pray reverently, saying the following words:
«Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven». (Matthew 5:14-16)
The love for our neighbor, even for our enemies, is the tangible proof of our love for God. Love alone covers a multitude of sins and leads to the spiritual life.
What the candle symbolizes in the Sacraments of the Church
In the early centuries of Christianity, believers used candles to light their holy gatherings. By the 4th century, after the end of Christian persecution and the construction of churches, candles became an integral part of the liturgical and spiritual life of the Church.
Candles feature in all the Holy Sacraments, carrying unique and profound symbolism in each case.
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What is the symbolism of the candle in the Holy Communion
The presence of the candle is intrinsically connected to the Divine Liturgy, especially during Holy Communion and prayer. At the end of every Divine Liturgy, the priest chants: «We have seen the True Light! We have received the Heavenly Spirit! We have found the True Faith! Worshiping the Undivided Trinity, Who has saved us.»
In the Holy Eucharist, the candle signifies the light of Jesus Christ, which, through the Gospel, enlightens and guides the faithful.
What is the symbolism of the candle in the Baptism
Why we have lit candles during the Sacrament of Baptism
In Baptism, the lit candle reminds the neophyte children to seek good works in their life and glorify the Lord.
What is the symbolism of the candle at Wedding
Why we light candles at Wedding
In Marriage, the white candles signify the purity of the souls of the newlyweds.
What is the symbolism of the candles in memorial services
What Candles Symbolize in Memorial Services
In Memorial Services, candles symbolize the prayers of the living for the departed, asking the Lord to grant them rest in a place of light.
Read here: Prayers for the Departed - What dates are All Souls Day?
What the Saints of our Church tell us about lit candles
Two great Saints and theologians of the Orthodox Church, Saint Symeon of Thessaloniki and Saint Nicodemus the Athonite, explain the symbolism of candle lighting in our faith. Each presents six reasons.
The Symbolism of the Candle according to Saint Simeon of Thessaloniki
Saint Symeon of Thessaloniki identifies six primary meanings of the candle:
- Purity of the soul: The candle, crafted from pure beeswax, represents the spiritual purity of every Christian.
- Malleability of the soul: soft and pliable nature of candle symbolizes the spiritual receptivity and cultivation that should characterize the soul of a believer.
- Divine Grace: The origin of the candle from fragrant flowers that the bees use signifies the grace of God, descending to illuminate and bless our lives.
- Theosis: Just as the candle burns, so too does the believer’s desire to achieve the ultimate goal of theosis, the union with God to attain likeness.
- The Light of Jesus Christ: The candle dispels darkness, just as Jesus Christ, through His light, guides every faithful soul.
- Love and peace: The flame of the candle calms and soothes the soul, driving away darkness and fostering love and peace in the world.
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The Symbolism of the Candle According to Saint Nicodemus
Saint Nicodemus highlights six additional aspects of the candle’s symbolism:
It signifies the acknowledgment of Jesus Christ as the true Light that illuminates the lives of all Christians.
The lit candle wins the darkness and provides comfort in the fear.
The flame of the candle expresses the joy of our soul.
It honors the saints and martyrs of our faith, following the example of the early Christians, who commemorated the first martyrs by lighting candles at their graves.
It symbolizes the good works according to God’s command: «Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven» (Matthew 5:16).
It serves as a plea for forgiveness of the sins of those who light it, as well as for those on whose behalf it is offered.
