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Christian Symbolism
The definition and the meaning of Symbols or Icon in early religious art forms. A Catholic sign or icon, such as the
Candles a Christian Symbol, is an object, character, figure, or color used to
represent abstract ideas or concepts - a picture that
represents an idea. A religious icon, such as the Candles
provide
an image or symbolic representation with sacred
significance. The meanings, origins and ancient traditions
surrounding Christian symbols date back to early times when the
majority of ordinary people were not able to read or write
and printing was unknown. Many were 'borrowed' or drawn from early pre-Christian traditions. The
candle is used in the religious ceremonies of many different
faiths. The lighting effects created by candles were used
for for decoration and ambiance. In Christianity a candle is
a symbol that represents the light of God or the light of
Christ.
The Definition and Meaning of the Candles as
a Catholic Christian Symbol
Catholic Christian symbolism in art provides a clear graphic illustration which
represents people or items of religious significance. What is the definition and the meaning of the
use of Candles in religion? The Candles as Christian Symbols represents
the light of God or the light of Christ. Candles are used in
processions, at the altar and are lit as a sign of
remembrance or to accompany prayer.
Candlemas
Candlemas celebrates the Feast of the Presentation of Our
Lord in the Temple which is held on February 2nd. The term
Candlemas derives from the tradition of blessing candles on
this feast and carrying them in procession as a symbol of
the "Light to Lighten the Nations".
The Seven-Branched
Candlestick - the Menorah
The The Seven-Branched Candlestick, called the Menorah,
represents the Holy Spirit and its seven gifts:
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Wisdom
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Understanding
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Counsel
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Might
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Knowledge
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Fear of the Lord
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Delight in the Lord.
The Colors of the
Candles
The colors of candles is significant:
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White Candles represent the
liturgical color of Christmas. On Christmas Eve the Christmas wreath
has a white candle in the center symbolising purity
and joy. It is known as the Christ candle which represents Christ
born on Christmas day.
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The Pink candle, the Advent
candle used on the third Sunday of Advent traditionally when the
congregation was given a break from fasting
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Purple candles match the
liturgical color of Advent
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Some religions use Blue candles during Lent
Reference to the Candles in
the Bible
The Easton Bible Dictionary
provides the following definition, meaning and emblem for
the Candles a Christian Symbol in the Bible. Heb. ner, Job
18:6; 29:3; Ps. 18:28; Prov. 24:20, in all which places the
Revised Version and margin of Authorized Version have
"lamp," by which the word is elsewhere frequently rendered.
The Hebrew word denotes properly any kind of candle or lamp
or torch. It is used as a figure of conscience (Prov.
20:27), of a Christian example (Matt. 5:14, 15), and of
prosperity (Job 21:17; Prov. 13:9).
John 1:1 In the beginning was the
Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He
was with God in the beginning. 3 Through him all things were
made; without him nothing was made that has been made. 4 In
him was life, and that life was the light of men. 5 The
light shines in the darkness, but the darkness has not
understood it.
"I am the Light of the World" (John
8:12).
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