Candles in Spiritual Rituals and Faith

Somewhere in the quiet of dusk, I strike a match. The flame flares, then softens as it touches the wick. In that moment, I’m not just lighting a candle, I’m part of something much older than myself. Something shared by millions across time, faiths, and cultures.

Candles have always held more than their physical form. Wax, wick, and flame; they’re simple elements. But when the flame dances, something shifts. It invites stillness, intention. Whether you’re lighting one to scent your home or to mark a sacred moment, you’re part of a long, interconnected story of light and meaning.

Let me take you there.

A Light That Transcends Borders

Long before electricity, fire was survival. Warmth, protection, food. But light? Light was different. It allowed people to see in darkness, yes, but it also became a symbol. In many ancient traditions, fire was believed to carry prayers to the heavens. It wasn’t just practical, it was sacred.

In Christianity, candles represent the light of Christ. Step into any church and you’ll likely see rows of small flames flickering quietly near the altar. These aren’t just decorations. Each candle is a personal offering, a prayer, a remembrance, a hope. In Catholic traditions especially, votive candles are lit to honour saints or to ask for their intercession. The idea is that even after you walk away, your prayer continues to burn.

In Judaism, candlelight is woven into the weekly rhythm of life. Every Friday evening before sunset, two candles are lit to welcome Shabbat, the day of rest. The flame signifies peace entering the home. During Hanukkah, the menorah (or hanukkiah) holds eight candles and a helper one (the shamash). One is lit each night, marking a miracle – oil that burned for eight days instead of one. It’s a reminder of resilience, faith, and heritage.

Over in Buddhist temples, the story is quieter but no less powerful. Candles are placed in front of images of the Buddha, alongside incense and flowers. They symbolise wisdom, like the light that dispels darkness. Each offering is a quiet act of devotion and clarity. It’s a moment to acknowledge that suffering exists, but so does the path to peace.

Hindu traditions are lit with colour and celebration. During Diwali, the Festival of Lights, homes and streets come alive with candles and oil lamps called diyas. These aren’t just decorations. They represent the triumph of good over evil, of knowledge over ignorance. Lighting them is both a celebration and a calling-in of blessings for the year ahead.

Even in older, pre-modern traditions, flame was revered. Ancient Romans lit candles during rites for the dead. In Celtic rituals, fire festivals like Imbolc and Beltane marked seasonal transitions, calling on the elements and honouring deities. And in contemporary Pagan or Wiccan practices, candles are often used to represent the four elements, spirit, or intention during ritual and meditation.

Modern Rituals: The Rise of Intention Candles

In recent years, the idea of intention candles has become hugely popular. These are candles made with a specific purpose in mind, whether that’s self-love, protection, clarity, or abundance. Often dressed with herbs, flowers, or crystals, they’ve become a staple in wellness spaces, spiritual shops, and self-care rituals.

As a candle maker, I love the idea of pouring meaning into something so everyday. Setting an intention, then lighting a candle to symbolise it, can be a grounding way to focus your energy and reflect on what you want to bring into your life.

But there’s a bit of confusion around how these candles should be used.

Some people believe intention candles should be lit and burned, letting the flame “activate” the intention. Others say they’re more like symbolic objects, and shouldn’t be burned at all. Honestly? It depends on the materials used.

Here’s where I put my candle-maker hat on.

If a candle contains botanicals, glitter, or crystals embedded into the wax, it absolutely should not be lit. These ingredients might look pretty, but they pose serious fire risks. Botanicals can catch alight, crystals can shift in the wax and crack the container, and glitters (especially plastic-based ones) can release toxins or cause flare-ups.

If you’re buying or making intention candles to burn, the wax should be clean; no add-ins on the surface or inside the vessel. Instead, the symbolism can come from the scent, colour, or even a discreet label or charm on the outside.

If the candle is purely for visual ritual or meditation, then decorate away. Just don’t light it.

There’s no one “right” way to use an intention candle. What matters is that it means something to you, and that it’s used safely.

A Maker’s Reflection

As a candle maker, I sometimes wonder who the people were who made candles centuries ago. What were they thinking as they poured tallow or beeswax into moulds? Were they preparing for the marketplace, or for a sacred ritual?

There’s something deeply grounding about knowing the candles I make today, whether they’re burned in celebration, grief, prayer, or simply self-care, are part of a story that crosses time and belief. My hands might be modern, but the intention is timeless.

When I hand-pour a candle, I think about where it might end up. A quiet moment in someone’s lounge after a long week. A centrepiece at dinner with friends. A gift for someone who needs comfort. Or perhaps lit with intention before meditation, helping someone reconnect with themselves, or with something greater.

The Flame Remains

What unites all these moments, across all these faiths and stories, is the flame. The quiet flicker that invites stillness. The glow that signals reverence. The warmth that opens the heart.

So, next time you light a candle, whether it’s from a religious tradition or just for the feel-good vibes, pause for a second. Breathe. Notice the way the flame moves. You’re part of something ancient. Something sacred.

And that, to me, is the true magic of a candle.

 

Sources

The Jewish Virtual Library: https://www.jewishvirtuallibrary.org/shabbat-candles

The Catholic Company: https://www.catholiccompany.com/content/what-is-a-votive-candle

BBC Religions: https://www.bbc.co.uk/religion/religions/buddhism

Hindu American Foundation – Diwali: https://www.hinduamerican.org/diwali

Learn Religions – Wiccan Candle Magic: https://www.learnreligions.com/candle-magic-2561875