From Ancient Flames to Modern Glow: The Rich History of Candles

Candles may seem simple, just wax and a wick but they’ve been part of our lives for thousands of years. They bring light, warmth, and comfort. They carry meaning, tradition, and even healing. As we celebrate Chanukah, the Festival of Lights, let’s take a look at the story of candles and how they’ve become a symbol of peace, memory, and spiritual light.

The First Candles Weren’t Made of Wax

The earliest candles, made over 2,000 years ago in China, were created from animal fat or plant oils. Their wicks were often made of rice paper. Later, in 3rd-century Europe, beeswax began to be used. This made candles cleaner and easier to use, helping them spread across the world.

Candles for Healing?

In the Middle Ages, people believed candle smoke could help with earaches. Today, scented candles made with essential oils are used to help people relax, ease anxiety, and sleep better.

The Candle That Changed Everything

In the 1800s, a new kind of wax called paraffin was developed. It was cheap, clean, and easy to use, so candles became more common in every home. People also started making decorative candles for beauty and gifts. Today, many choose natural candles made of soy or beeswax, since paraffin (which comes from oil) may not be as healthy to breathe.

A Flame for the Soul

In Jewish tradition, candles are lit to remember loved ones who have passed away. The flame is a symbol of the soul, reminding us that the soul continues to shine even after death. Memorial candles are lit on the anniversary of a loved one’s passing, on Yom Kippur, and on other special days. As it says in Proverbs: “The soul of man is the candle of Hashem.”

The Light of Shabbat

Lighting Shabbat candles is one of the most special mitzvot in Jewish life. It marks the start of Shabbat, a holy day of rest and peace. The warm light of the candles brings a feeling of calm and unity into the home. Our sages taught that Shabbat candles help push away both physical and spiritual darkness. They mark the shift from the busy week to a time of holiness, family, and connection.

In Kabbalah (Jewish mysticism), the flame is seen as a picture of the soul, always rising upward. Lighting Shabbat candles is often the role of the woman of the home, and it brings spiritual light into everyday life.

Candles as Decoration

In recent years, candles have become popular in home design. Many Israeli companies make beautiful handmade candles with local ingredients like olive oil and natural scents. Candles are now used not just for light, but to bring warmth and elegance to any space. Whether big or small, bright or gently colored, candles can make a room feel welcoming and special.

Chanukah: A Victory of Light

The light of the Chanukah candles tells the story of hope and faith. It reminds us of the miracle that took place in the Temple and the victory of light over darkness. The Rambam (Maimonides) wrote that lighting Chanukah candles is a very precious mitzvah. Even someone with nothing should find a way to buy oil and candles to perform this special act.

Each night of Chanukah, we add another candle, until all eight shine. This growing light teaches us to keep going higher, to add goodness, faith, and kindness each day. Chanukah becomes not just a celebration, but a time to reflect and grow.

Candles may be small, but they hold great meaning. Even one little flame can light up a dark room. In the Jewish home, that small flame carries love, memory, faith, and peace.