Death is a natural part of life, but it’s often difficult to cope with losing a loved one. One way that many people find comfort is by lighting candles in remembrance. Candles provide a beacon of light in the darkness and remind us of the continued presence of those who have moved on to the other side. They can be lit as part of many different religious and spiritual traditions, each with meaning and symbolism.
In general, candles represent the light of life extinguished when a person dies. They may also be used to illuminate the way for the deceased’s soul on its journey to the afterlife. Candles are often placed on graves, or near photographs of the dead, to honour and remember them.
This article will explore the history and meaning behind lighting candles for the dead. We will look at how people do this worldwide and how you can use candles as part of your remembrance.
A Brief History
Ancient Egypt
One earliest recorded tradition of lighting candles for the dead and worship comes from ancient Egypt. The Egyptians believed that the light from a candle could guide the deceased’s soul to the afterlife. Candles were often placed in tombs and temples, and families would gather around them to pray for their loved ones.
Egyptians use rushlights, which are long rushes that have been soaked in animal fat or beeswax. These were used to light the way to the afterlife and placed in tombs as a source of light for the dead.
The tradition of lighting candles in memory of the dead spread to other cultures and religions over time.
Judaism
The tradition of lighting candles in memory of the dead also has Jewish roots. The Jewish holiday of Yom Kippur, which commemorates the annual Day of Atonement, includes a ceremony in which candles are lit in honour of those who have passed away. The light from the candles is said to represent the eternal soul and is a reminder that even though the body may perish, the soul lives on forever.
On Yom Kippur, candles are lit for several reasons, including:
- In honour of the holiday – The holiday of Yom Kippur is a holy day, and candles are used as part of the celebration.
- To remember the dead – The light from the candles is said to represent the eternal soul and is a reminder that even though the body may perish, the soul lives on forever.
- As a symbol of hope – Lighting candles shows hope for the future.
Yahrzeit Candles
Judaism also has a tradition of lighting candles on the anniversary of a loved one’s death, called a yahrzeit. This candle is lit in memory of the deceased and to honour their life. It is said that the light from the candle represents the soul of the person who has passed away and that it will help guide them on their journey.
Christianity
The tradition of lighting candles in memory of the dead also has Christian roots. Christians believe that Jesus is the world’s light and that we will be reunited with him in heaven when we die. Candles are often lit during church services to remember those who have passed away and celebrate their life after death.
In Christianity, candles are often used in funerals and memorial services. They can symbolize several things, including the light of Christ, the hope of eternal life, and the presence of God. Many churches also keep a “Prayer Candle” burning near the entrance, where people can light a candle and say a prayer for someone who has died.
Catholic Blessed Candles
The Catholic church also has a tradition of using blessed candles. A priest has blessed these candles, which are used in religious ceremonies. They are often given to people going through a difficult time, where sickness has fallen on a loved one or death is imminent.
Theravada Buddhism
In Theravada Buddhism, candles are often used during religious ceremonies and festivals. They represent the Buddha’s teaching of the Middle Way, which is the path to enlightenment.
Candles are often used in Buddhist ceremonies and represent a state of change and impermanence. This is a vital part of Buddhist philosophy, which teaches that everything in the world is constantly changing and that there is no such thing as permanent happiness. The candlelight reminds us of this teaching and helps connect us with the spiritual world.
Unlike other religions, candles do not represent the eternal soul, as Buddhism believes in the concept of rebirth. This rebirth happens immediately after the person has passed away, so the candle does not represent a beacon of light and guidance to the afterlife.
Lighting a candle is a way of making merit, leading to a good rebirth in the next life. It is also a way of giving light to others, as the Buddha did when he taught the Middle Way.
Candles are also lit in front of Buddha images as a sign of respect. The light from the candles is said to represent the Buddha’s teachings and his enlightened mind.
The Day Of The Dead
The Day of the Dead is a Mexican holiday celebrating the lives of those who have passed away. It is a time to remember and honour loved ones who have died. Candles are often used in altars and memorials during this holiday. They are said to help guide the souls of the deceased back to their loved ones on this special day.
The tradition of lighting candles for the dead is a way to show respect and honour for those who have passed away. It reminds us that even though they are no longer with us in body, their spirit lives on forever. Candles symbolize hope and light in the darkness, reminding us that we are not alone.
Outside of Religion
Lighting candles has also become a popular way to remember loved ones who have died outside of a religious context. People often light candles on anniversaries, birthdays, and other special occasions to keep the memory of their loved ones alive.
Candles provide light and comfort in times of darkness and grief. They remind us that even though our loved ones are no longer with us in body, they continue to live on in our hearts and memories.
What are the different types of remembrance candles and their purposes?
Many different types of candles can be used for remembrance, each with symbolism. Here are some of the most common:
Prayer Candles: Prayer candles are commonly found in churches, which are lit to honour a deceased loved one. They can also be found in homes, which may be used for personal prayer and reflection.
Funeral Candles: Funeral candles are typically white and are used in funeral and memorial services. They represent the purity of the soul and the hope of eternal life.
Memorial Candles: Memorial candles are often used to remember someone who has died and can be lit on anniversaries and holidays. They may be placed in a unique holder displayed in the home.
Candles of Hope: Candles of hope are often used to remember those who have died from a particular disease or condition. They represent the hope for a cure and the belief that loved ones will one day be reunited.
How to light a candle for meditation or prayer?
When lighting a candle for meditation or prayer, it is essential to do so with intention. Take a moment to centre yourself and focus on your breath. Then, light the candle and let your mind be drawn to the flame. Let all other thoughts fall away as you focus on the flicker of the flame. You may want to say a prayer or mantra or allow yourself to be present in the moment. When you are finished, take a few deep breaths and blow out the candle.
The symbolism and meaning behind lighting candles for the dead?
Lighting candles in remembrance of the dead is a practice that dates back thousands of years. It is a way to honour and remember those who have passed away and to provide comfort amid grief. Candles symbolize many things, including the light of Christ, the hope of eternal life, and the presence of God. They remind us that even though the body may perish, the soul lives on forever.
How to choose the right candle for your needs?
When choosing a candle for remembrance, you must consider what you wish to symbolize. If you are looking for a candle to use in prayer or meditation, you may want to choose one that represents the light of Christ or the hope of eternal life. If you are looking for a candle to use in a funeral or memorial service, you may want to choose a white candle to represent the purity of the soul. Many different types of candles are available, so take some time to find one that speaks to you.
Taper candles: Taper candles are thin, upright ones typically used in memorial services. Some believe they represent the light of Christ and the hope of eternal life.
Pillar Candles: Pillar candles are thick, cylindrical ones often used in funerals and memorial services. Some believe they represent the strength and stability of the soul.
Votive candles: Votive candles are small, cup-shaped ones typically used in prayer and meditation. Some believe they represent the presence of God.
Floating candles: Floating candles are typically used in funerals and memorial services. Some believe they represent the release of the soul from the body.
The benefits of using candles in your everyday life?
There are many benefits to using candles in your everyday life. Candles can help to set the mood in your home, providing a sense of calm and relaxation. They can also be used for prayer and meditation, allowing you to focus and connect with your spirituality. Candles can also be a beautiful addition to any room, adding a touch of warmth and light.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are candles lit in church?
Candles are lit in church for a variety of reasons. They may be used to represent the light of Christ, the hope of eternal life, or the presence of God. Candles may also be used during prayer and meditation as a way to focus and connect with the divine.
Why are candles lit on Rosh Hashanah?
Rosh Hashanah is the Jewish New Year, and candles are typically lit to symbolize the beginning of a new year. Candles may also be used during prayer and meditation as a way to focus and connect with the divine.
Why are candles lit on Shabbat?
Shabbat is the Jewish day of rest, and candles are typically lit the evening before to symbolize the beginning of the day of rest. The Torah forbids kindling fire on Shabbat, so candles are usually used as a way to bring light into the home while eating Shabbat dinner.
Final Thoughts
Lighting a candle is a simple yet powerful act. It can be used to honour and remember those who have passed away, to provide comfort in times of grief, or to symbolize the hope of eternal life. Candles can also be used in prayer and meditation to focus and connect with the divine. Choose the right candle for your needs and enjoy the many benefits of using candles in your everyday life.
Lighting candles is just one of the many ways we can honour the memory of our loved ones who have passed away. Whether you do it as part of a religious or spiritual tradition or simply as a way to remember and reflect, lighting a candle can be a beautiful and healing way to connect with those who are no longer with us.
