Holiday Candles
By webmaster on Jul 7, 2007 in Holidays
Author by : Anne Clarke
They make great décor for any home regardless of the faith that is practiced there. For those of the Christian faith, candles welcome the Christ child and are a representation of the star of the Magi. They also symbolize the light of Christ, as He is referred to often as the “Light of the World”. It is this same light that each faithful person bears, according to the Christian religion. The faithful have a responsibility to let their “light” shine as an example to the world. Candles are a representation of this light and symbolize spirituality, faith and devotion.
The Jewish celebrate Hanukkah around the same time as Christmas. This holiday, often referred to as “The Festival of Lights” centers around candles. The holiday commemorates the victory of the Maccabees, led by Judah, over the Hellenistic Syrians. The celebration comes because of a miraculous event that occurred when the Jews were rededicating their temple. They could only find enough sacramental oil to last the first day. They used it anyway and it miraculously burned for eight days. The candles represent the sacramental oil and a new candle is lit each night for eight days and is held in a Menorah.
The African holiday Kwanzaa uses candles as well. During this holiday a Kinara is traditionally used to hold seven candles. Each of the candles represent one of the seven principles which are the foundation of Kwanzaa. These symbols, in English, are unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity and faith.
Candles are more than just symbols, though. They make great decorations because of their timeless beauty and their fragrant aromas. The smell of candles brings in the holiday season like nothing else. The smells of the season: such as pine, pumpkin, cinnamon, and pies actually inspire memories for many people. Fragrant candles can create a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Candles also make wonderful gifts for anyone on your list. They come in many colors, sizes, shapes and fragrances. There are beautiful candle holders available on the market, as well as candle centerpieces, as well as decorative candles, (ones that seem to be designed to never be lit) and more that help your create the holiday spirit. Candles are elegant no matter what their price tag is and can easily be decorated to add a personal touch. Embellishments like decoupage tissue paper, buttons and lace add a delightful touch of charm to a basic candle.
Candles are fun and elegant throughout the year and give your home a fresh, attractive scent. During the holidays they are especially meaningful with all of their symbolism, elegance and grace.
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Anne Clarke writes numerous articles for websites on gardening, parenting, recreation, education and décor. Her background includes teaching and gardening. For more of her articles about holiday décor, please visit Holiday Candles. |
[tags]Candles, holiday candles, candles for holidays, seasonal candles, candle, holiday candle, lights[/tags]
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