Symbolism Of Candles (8 Meanings)

Candles have long been associated with spiritual symbolism, offering comfort and illumination in times of darkness.

Throughout history, candles have been used to bring peace, hope, and connection in a variety of settings. From religious rituals to romantic dinners, candles have been used as a way to express emotion and communicate a shared understanding. In this article, we will explore the symbolism of candles and their various meanings.

Remember that symbolism is subjective. The below are examples of possible interpretations only, and may not be the correct interpretations for you and your situation.

Candle Symbolism and Meanings

1. Birth

A candle symbolizes birth because a flame brings light into the darkness, much like a newborn baby entering the world.

There is an ancient belief that each new birth brings fresh hope, optimism, and possibility to the future of humanity, and this renewal of life is often represented by a burning candle.

In some faiths, followers may even light a candle in honor of a particular saint or deity as a way to consecrate each birth.

2. Resurrection

A candle traditionally symbolizes the light of Christ, particularly at Easter when we celebrate Jesus’ resurrection.

Across many faith traditions, a lit flame is often used to represent divine guidance and grace. As Christ rose from the dead, so is the candle a representation of eternal life and hope that comes after darkness has passed.

The symbolism of the candle extends not only to our beliefs in God, but also to humanity’s inherent power of resilience and spirit in the face of adversity.

3. Renewal

Candles have long been associated with the symbolism of renewal and hope, often invoked in ceremonies or used as a part of religious practices.

This symbolism is deeply rooted in different cultures and religions spanning thousands of years, where candles were used to represent the power of light.

In many cases, they were used to signify purity or sanctity as well as a representation of God’s grace and love.

The light that candles give off when burned has also been seen as symbolic of enlightenment and knowledge.

4. Guidance

Throughout history, candles have been used as a symbolic representation of guidance.

Their light has provided comfort in the presence of darkness and uncertainty, representing clarity and direction in life’s journey.

Additionally, their flame has signified hope that one’s path is illuminated for those moments when circumstances appear insurmountable.

By providing such reassurance of security through its tranquil flicker, the candle stands as an enduring testament to standing firmly rooted in faith during times of desperation.

5. Hope

Candles have long been a symbol of hope in many cultures throughout history.

Their burning flame is a reminder that even in the darkness, there is still light. The flickering glow of a candle offers light in the dark, providing guidance and a sense of home and comfort.

Candles also bring people together to celebrate holidays and commemorate special moments. While its light brings us together, it can also offer clarity and personal reflection within our own lives.

It ignites optimism, reminding us that no matter our circumstances, as long as there’s light we have hope.

6. Protection

Candles have been used for centuries as a symbol of protection.

To some, the flame signifies a spiritual connection to one’s higher power, providing a source of peace and guidance.

To others, it evokes feelings of safety from unseen forces that can cause harm in the physical world.

The unique physical properties of candles also make them useful for warding off malevolent spirits or other forms of energetic misalignment.

7. Comfort

A candle has often been used to symbolize feelings of warmth and comfort, likely due to its soft light providing a sense of peace and security.

When we feel overwhelmed by our surroundings or struggle to find solace during difficult times, the simple act of lighting a candle can help bring tranquility to an otherwise chaotic situation.

Its flickering flame provides a calming visual reminder that there is hope in the darkness.

Furthermore, candles have long been associated with moments of spiritual renewal and are used throughout many cultures as a way to honor those we have lost or seek out inner peace.

8. Prayers and Worship

Throughout every culture and religion, candles have been used as a symbol of faith, prayers and worship.

Since ancient times, candles have been intertwined with the rituals of prayer and worship. In many written texts and artwork, the use of a candle is associated with images of a powerful shield created around the person who lights it in honor of their deity.

Symbolically speaking, the light from candles dispels all fear or conceals all secrets protecting against any evil that might attempt to take control.

To this day, even after centuries passed since its first use as an object for religious ceremonies and magical rites, lighting a candle continues to prove that faith is something so powerful it can brighten up even the darkest souls in spite of difficult times that may come our way.

Dream Meaning Of Candle

Dreams about candles can suggest a variety of different meanings depending on the context, color, and placement of the candle in your dream.

Generally, however, a candle often symbolizes spirituality, inner light, and hope. Seeing a lit candle suggests there is still some hope for you to find what you are looking for – be it a success or something else.

A candle that is being lit in your dream could be a sign of spiritual guidance or inspiration and can be interpreted as a message to pay attention to the spiritual aspects of life.

It may also represent a new beginning on some level—a birth, an idea, or possibly even the start of something you have been planning for a while.

Conclusion

Candles have had a powerful symbolic presence in many cultures around the world for centuries. They represent hope, protection, comfort, prayers, and worship, as well as a reminder of our inner light. Candles also appear in dreams, often symbolizing spiritual guidance and inner peace.