The warm glow of candlelight has been synonymous with Christmas celebrations for centuries. While twinkling lights, colorful ornaments, and a festive tree dominate modern Christmas decor, candles still hold a special place in our hearts and traditions. But have you ever wondered about the significance of those seven candles often seen adorning Christmas wreaths or displayed prominently during the Advent season? Is it just a decorative choice, or is there a deeper meaning behind this specific number? Let’s delve into the fascinating history and symbolism to understand why seven candles at Christmas hold such a special place in many cultures.
The Advent Wreath: A Beacon of Hope and Expectation
The most common association with multiple candles at Christmas is undoubtedly the Advent wreath. This circular evergreen wreath, usually adorned with ribbons and ornaments, serves as a visual representation of the weeks leading up to Christmas. The Advent wreath tradition, as we know it today, emerged in 19th-century Germany, though its roots extend back to earlier pre-Christian and early Christian practices.
The Evolution of the Advent Wreath
Before the formalization of the Advent wreath, people used candles and evergreens to symbolize hope and eternal life during the dark winter months. The early Christians incorporated these symbols into their religious observances, using light as a metaphor for Christ, the “Light of the World.” The wreath itself, with its circular shape, represents eternity and the unending love of God. The evergreen branches symbolize continuous life and the promise of renewal.
It was Johann Hinrich Wichern, a Protestant pastor and educator in Hamburg, Germany, who is credited with creating the first Advent wreath. In 1839, he used a wooden ring with 24 candles (20 small red candles and 4 large white ones) to help the children at the Rauhes Haus, an institution he founded for disadvantaged children, count down the days until Christmas. As the years passed, the design simplified, evolving into the more familiar wreath with five candles: three purple, one pink, and one white.
The Meaning of Each Candle
Each candle on the Advent wreath represents a specific theme associated with the season of Advent. The candles are lit sequentially, one each Sunday leading up to Christmas, with a special significance assigned to each. While variations exist, the most common interpretations are as follows:
The first purple candle, often called the “Prophecy Candle,” symbolizes hope and anticipation for the coming of the Messiah. It reminds us of the Old Testament prophets who foretold the birth of Jesus. The second purple candle, known as the “Bethlehem Candle,” represents faith and preparation. It reminds us to prepare our hearts and minds for the arrival of Christ. The third candle, the pink one, is called the “Shepherd’s Candle” or the “Joy Candle.” It is lit on the third Sunday of Advent, representing the joy and excitement surrounding Christ’s imminent arrival. The color pink symbolizes a softening of the penitential mood of Advent. The fourth purple candle, often referred to as the “Angel’s Candle,” symbolizes peace and love. It reminds us of the angels who announced the birth of Jesus to the shepherds. The white candle, placed in the center of the wreath, is the “Christ Candle.” It is lit on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day and represents the birth of Jesus Christ, the Light of the World.
Why Only Four Candles on the Advent Wreath Usually?
While the Advent wreath plays a vital role in understanding the symbolism of multiple candles at Christmas, it’s important to note that the standard Advent wreath only contains four candles (plus the Christ candle for a total of five). This raises the question: Where does the number seven come in?
Beyond the Advent Wreath: Exploring Other Interpretations of Seven Candles
The specific number of seven candles is less commonly associated with the traditional Advent wreath and more closely linked to specific theological and cultural interpretations. The number seven holds significant symbolic weight in both Christian and Jewish traditions.
Seven as a Symbol of Perfection and Completion
In the Bible, the number seven often represents perfection, completeness, and divine fulfillment. For example, God created the world in seven days. There are seven days of the week. In the Book of Revelation, there are seven churches, seven spirits of God, seven seals, seven trumpets, and seven bowls of wrath.
The association of seven with perfection and completeness can be applied to the Christmas season as a way of representing the fullness of Christ’s coming and the complete fulfillment of God’s promise of salvation. The seven candles can symbolize the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit: wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety, and fear of the Lord.
Representing the Seven Joys of Mary
In some traditions, seven candles at Christmas are used to represent the Seven Joys of Mary, the mother of Jesus. These joys highlight significant moments in Mary’s life that are associated with the birth and early life of Christ.
These seven joys are: The Annunciation, when the angel Gabriel told Mary that she would conceive and bear a son; The Visitation, when Mary visited her cousin Elizabeth, who was also pregnant; The Nativity, the birth of Jesus; The Adoration of the Magi, when the wise men came to worship Jesus; The Presentation of Jesus in the Temple, when Mary and Joseph presented Jesus to God; The Finding of Jesus in the Temple, when Mary and Joseph found Jesus teaching in the temple; and The Assumption of Mary into Heaven.
The lighting of seven candles can serve as a devotional practice, allowing individuals and families to reflect on each of these joyous moments and their significance in the Christmas story.
Cultural and Regional Variations
The use of seven candles at Christmas can also vary based on cultural and regional customs. In some regions, the number of candles may be tied to specific local traditions or beliefs. These traditions, passed down through generations, might be associated with folk beliefs or specific interpretations of religious texts. It’s important to remember that Christmas celebrations are diverse and localized, reflecting the unique cultural heritage of different communities around the world.
For example, in some Slavic cultures, the number of candles might be connected to pre-Christian winter solstice traditions that involved lighting fires or candles to ward off darkness and welcome the return of the sun. While these traditions have been adapted and integrated into Christian celebrations, the specific number of candles might still carry a deeper cultural significance.
The Enduring Appeal of Candlelight at Christmas
Regardless of the specific number or the symbolic interpretation, the enduring appeal of candlelight at Christmas is undeniable. Candles create a warm, inviting, and contemplative atmosphere, encouraging reflection and spiritual connection.
Candlelight as a Symbol of Hope in Darkness
The darkness of winter can be a challenging time, both physically and emotionally. The light of candles offers a tangible symbol of hope and light in the midst of darkness. This symbolism is particularly relevant during the Christmas season, as it reminds us that Jesus Christ came into the world as the “Light of the World,” bringing hope and salvation to humanity.
Creating a Festive and Spiritual Ambiance
Candles enhance the festive ambiance of Christmas celebrations, adding a touch of elegance and warmth to homes and churches. The flickering flames create a sense of wonder and magic, transporting us back to simpler times and reminding us of the true meaning of Christmas. Beyond the aesthetic appeal, candles also foster a sense of spiritual connection, encouraging quiet contemplation and prayer. The act of lighting a candle can be a powerful reminder of our faith and our connection to something greater than ourselves.
The Importance of Tradition and Remembrance
For many families, lighting candles during the Christmas season is a cherished tradition that has been passed down through generations. These traditions create a sense of continuity and connection to the past, reminding us of our family history and the values that we hold dear. The act of lighting candles can evoke fond memories of loved ones and create a sense of unity and belonging.
In conclusion, while the four candles of the Advent wreath are more commonly known, the presence of seven candles at Christmas holds a rich tapestry of symbolic meaning. Whether representing the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit, the Seven Joys of Mary, or holding cultural significance tied to winter solstice traditions, these candles illuminate our understanding of the season’s profound messages of hope, joy, peace, and love. More than just decoration, these candles serve as beacons, guiding us toward the light of Christ during this special time of year.
Why do some people use 7 candles at Christmas, and is it a widespread tradition?
While not as ubiquitous as Christmas trees or wreaths, the use of seven candles at Christmas is a tradition found in certain Christian denominations and cultural traditions, particularly within some Protestant communities. It often symbolizes the seven days of creation or the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit. These candles can be arranged in various ways, such as a candelabra or a simple line, and are lit progressively throughout the Advent season leading up to Christmas Day.
It’s important to note that this practice isn’t universally observed across all Christian churches or cultures. Many other Christmas traditions, like Advent wreaths with four candles, are more commonly recognized. The seven-candle tradition tends to be more specific to particular regional or denominational practices, making it a cherished but not widespread Christmas custom.
What is the symbolism associated with the 7 candles used during Christmas?
The seven candles at Christmas often hold a rich symbolic meaning rooted in Christian theology and the anticipation of Christ’s birth. One prominent interpretation associates them with the seven days of creation as described in the Book of Genesis, reminding believers of God’s creative power and the beginning of all things. Lighting them represents the bringing of light into the darkness, mirroring the light of Christ entering the world.
Another interpretation links the seven candles to the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit: wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety, and fear of the Lord. Lighting each candle can be a prayerful act of invoking these gifts during the Advent season, preparing the heart for the coming of Jesus. The candles, therefore, become a visual representation of spiritual growth and the blessings of the Holy Spirit.
How does the lighting of 7 candles differ from the more common 4-candle Advent wreath?
The key difference lies in the number of candles and the symbolism they represent. The Advent wreath, typically adorned with four candles (three purple and one pink), symbolizes hope, peace, joy, and love, each representing a week of Advent leading up to Christmas. A pastor may focus on one of these virtues during each Sunday church service of Advent.
In contrast, the seven candles, as mentioned earlier, often signify the seven days of creation or the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit. The lighting sequence and accompanying readings or prayers also differ depending on the tradition being followed. While the Advent wreath is more widely recognized across various Christian denominations, the seven-candle custom holds a more specialized significance within specific communities.
Are there specific prayers or rituals associated with lighting the 7 candles at Christmas?
The prayers and rituals surrounding the lighting of seven candles at Christmas can vary significantly depending on the specific tradition or family custom. Some families might have specific prayers recited for each candle, reflecting the themes of creation or the gifts of the Holy Spirit. These prayers often involve scripture readings and personal reflections.
Other traditions may incorporate hymns or songs related to the Advent season. The lighting process itself can be a deliberate and meditative act, fostering a sense of spiritual preparation and anticipation for Christmas. Whether elaborate or simple, the prayers and rituals aim to connect the physical act of lighting the candles with a deeper spiritual meaning, enhancing the festive celebration.
Is the tradition of 7 Christmas candles related to any historical events or figures?
There’s no single, definitive historical figure or event directly and universally attributed to the origin of the seven-candle Christmas tradition. Instead, the custom likely evolved from various theological and liturgical influences within specific Christian communities over time. The emphasis on the number seven likely stems from its significance in the Bible, particularly in the context of creation and spiritual gifts.
The tradition’s development might also be connected to local customs and interpretations of Advent and Christmas celebrations within different regions or denominations. As such, pinpointing a precise historical origin is challenging, and the tradition is more a product of evolving religious practices and symbolic interpretations.
Can I adapt or incorporate the 7-candle tradition into my own Christmas celebrations, even if it’s not part of my cultural background?
Absolutely. The beauty of Christmas traditions lies in their adaptability and the personal meaning they can hold. If you find the symbolism of the seven candles resonating with you, there’s no reason why you can’t adapt it to your own celebrations. You can choose a set of prayers, readings, or reflections that align with your beliefs and values.
Consider how the themes of creation, spiritual gifts, or other relevant interpretations might enhance your Advent and Christmas experience. Just remember to approach it with respect and understanding, recognizing that it may have different nuances within its original cultural context. You might also want to research it further to understand the history and the reasons why people choose to celebrate it.
Where can I find resources for prayers or readings to use with a 7-candle Christmas celebration?
Numerous resources are available for finding prayers and readings suitable for a seven-candle Christmas celebration. Many Christian websites and online libraries offer Advent devotional materials that incorporate themes related to creation, spiritual gifts, and the anticipation of Christ’s birth. Books on Advent and Christmas traditions often contain relevant prayers and readings as well.
You can also consult with local religious leaders or explore the liturgical resources of specific Christian denominations that observe this tradition. Additionally, searching online for “seven-candle Advent prayers” or “Advent devotions” can yield a wealth of resources, allowing you to select materials that resonate with your personal faith and understanding.