What do candles represent in Christianity?

Christians worldwide believe the Old Testament points to Jesus and finds its fulfillment in the events profiled in the Gospels and New Testament Epistles. Christians link light with the divine. Followers of Christ hold the triune Godhead links the heavenly Father to light (as God is presented as the creator of light in Genesis 1), the Holy Spirit with light (as He has revealed Himself as a pillar of fire and light), and Jesus the Son with light (as he is referenced as the “light of the world” in John 8:12). Christians teach that followers of Christ must “trust in the Light so that [we] may become sons of Light” (John 12:36). 

Accordingly, the practice of lighting candles during special times of worship and prayer is common in Christianity as it can assist in focusing one’s thoughts and prayers on Jesus, “the author and perfector of our faith” (Hebrews 12:2).

Candles and lamps in Scripture

Christians base their beliefs and practices on Sola Scriptura, on Scripture alone. Accordingly, Christians note how lamps were used to symbolize the presence of God in the Old Testament period Tabernacle and Temple, and were referenced often in the teachings of Jesus. Notably, Jesus celebrated the Festival of Lights (sometimes called the Festival of Dedication and today is called Hanukkah) in John 8. The Festival commemorates the importance of keeping sacred lamps burning in the Temple and how God provided a miracle to ensure that happened—though there was no oil. 

Jesus referred to Himself as the light (John 9:5) and called His followers to be a light (Matthew 5:14). Writing of Jesus, John the revelator noted that the light of His glory illuminates the heavens (Revelation 22:5), and the Apostle Peter wrote that being in His presence was akin to being in a marvelous light (1 Peter 2:9).

Candles in Christianity today

Christians believe it honors God when His followers light candles and reflect on the majesty and goodness of God—what He has done, who He is, and what He is going to do. Christians happily embrace the timeless tradition of lighting candles during special worship services and seasons associated with key spiritual happenings. Keeping flames burning during prayer vigils and candlelight services is a valued part of Christmas Eve services, the season of Advent, and memorial services and prayer vigils.  

Protestant Christians do not believe candles amplify prayers but rather help one to focus on the beautiful qualities associated with candles and light. Christians believe the attractive attributes of candles point to the Father of lights (James 1:17), who sits on the throne of grace and extends mercy to those who seek Him in their time of need (Hebrews 4:16).

What do candles symbolize?

Candles can symbolize many things: life, God, the Spirit, Christ, repentance, our prayer requests, what God has done, what God will do, and more. However, all of the above point to Jesus the Christ. He is one with God and the Spirit. He hears our prayer requests (1 Peter 5:7) and responds to our cries for forgiveness (1 John 1:9). He has promised to come again (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18) and, in eternity, will illuminate the heavens with His glory (Revelation 20). Candles, then, remind Christians of the glory of God—His power and purity, and His abiding presence and faithful promises.