In Christian society, there are many traditions based on Scripture and Tradition. Some traditions have a beneficial effect on the souls of people, which is why they are called pious. These Christian traditions include the practice of lighting candles in the temple.
The candle is the source of light. The use of lamps emitting light (fire) took place even in Old Testament times. This shows some symbolism based on Scripture. Even at the beginning of God's creation of the world, the Lord separated light from darkness. Therefore, light is a symbol of the presence of God.
In the Old Testament, special lamps were used, which were vessels with olive oil and a flax wick. It was a kind of lamp. It was used in the Tabernacle, and later in the Jerusalem temple, as a symbol of the presence of divine grace. Such lamps were lit in the Tabernacle and the Temple in Jerusalem during prayer.
In New Testament times, lamps have also been used by Christians since the early centuries. This is mentioned in the book of the Acts of the Apostles. In the days after the birth of Jesus Christ, not only lamps, but also the candles themselves could be called lamps. In New Testament times, candles had not only the symbolic meaning of the presence of God, but were also practically used during prayers. So, candles served as a source of light. Christians in the first centuries prayed at night, as they were persecuted by the Roman authorities.
With the development of the liturgical charter, the use of candles in churches, as well as at prayer meetings, is already firmly included in the Christian life. Candles were no longer used only as a source of light, they were a symbol of the uncreated light of Christ, who brought humanity out of the darkness of the night.
In addition, the candle symbolizes a sacrifice to God. And the very moment of burning a candle should remind a person of the high mission of the latter. A person should have a flaming heart of love for everyone who surrounds him, by his personal example to bring light to people. This is the symbolic interpretation of the understanding of the candle in modern Christian society.
Nowadays, candles in temples are used as a sacrifice to God. During the time when a person puts a candle, it is customary to pray for his needs to God, the Mother of God or the saints. A candle can also be a sign of a person's memory. There is a pious tradition of lighting candles in memory of people who have died.
