Inevitable candles. They are seen everywhere these days. In stores that sell them Christmas decorations, in particular, candles enrich, with their different shapes, their bright or soft colors, tables, furnishings, floral compositions, original centerpieces. Among the many, the red ones prevail, the most representative color of Christmas, together with the golden ones. But there really are some for all tastes and they are ideal for making our parties more elegant and fragrant. Furthermore, at Christmas candles hold a profound meaning because they represent the light of Christ.
Atmosphere of joy and spirituality
Candle flames acquire special meanings during the holidays. In addition to making environments warmer and more welcoming, lit candles are a symbol of rebirth, of the victory of Jesus' love and of light over darkness. Many choose them as gifts, especially if decorated with symbols such as trees, stars, angels that recall the typical magic of this period.
Candles cannot be missing in any home and make a beautiful display on tables, shelves, furniture, windowsills, helping to create an atmosphere of joy and spirituality. Handmade ones are preferable, with completely non-toxic and safe natural ingredients, such as beeswax, coconut wax, coconut oil and essential oils. Many of these, to which natural lemon, vanilla or cinnamon scented oils are added, release delicate fragrances that have relaxing properties.
The Advent wreath
There are four candles that form the Advent wreath, which represents the journey of waiting and preparation for Christmas. Similar to a wreath, the crown has its roots in a pagan custom of the Germanic people which, over time, became Christianized. It is made up of branches of evergreen plants on which four candles are placed (three purple and one pink), which are lit one at a time on the four Sundays of Advent. They symbolize the light of Jesus as salvation for everyone's life and each have a very specific name.
The first is called “of the prophet” because it recalls the prophet Micah, who predicted the birth of the Messiah in Bethlehem, and is a symbol of hope. The second is said “of Bethlehem”, to remember the place where Jesus was born, and symbolizes the universal call to salvation. The third is called “of the shepherds”, the first who saw it and adored it, and it is a symbol of joy. The fourth is called “of angels”, the first to announce the birth of the Messiah to the world, and symbolizes love.
Happy holidays of light!
The first candles date back to Roman times and were offered as gifts during the Saturnalia holidays, one of the rites of the imperial age associated with the current Christmas. Their story is truly rich in many curiosities. For all this and for their great symbolic value, candles cannot be missing from our tables, especially on Christmas Eve. Therefore, assuming you haven't done so yet, hurry and buy the ones that best suit your tastes and your decor and... happy celebrations of light!
(Photo: Pixabay)
