Candles

Candles: history and usage

Candles have a long history in our society, they appeared about 5,000 years ago, since it has been archaeologically proved that beeswax existed in Egypt and Crete around 3,000 BC. The first forms were developed from wax, fat or tallow, and much later in the 18th century various oils were used in creating superior quality ones. In 1830 paraffin was distilled for the first time, and was used to create inexpensive good quality candles. The industry knew an abrupt collapse after the introduction of kerosene as lamp fuel, and its success led to the creation of candles for decoration purposes.

Candles' usage in Christianity

For Christians they have a double significance, they are used as decorations but also to symbolize God's light or the light of Christ. They are always placed on the altar in the holiest place in any church. Votive candles can be used to accompany prayer. In the Orthodox church, they are lit near icons, as a symbol of worship. For instance, Easter candles are something special for every true Christian, they represent Christ's sacrifice for all of us, and they are used only on Easter time.

In tradition, they were also used to the decorate the Christmas

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trees, and even if electric lights are now commonly used, there are still places were candles are preferred when decorating the Christmas tree. An example of such a place is Denmark where this tradition is still present despite the fact that people's faith has diminished like everywhere else. They are one primary element in all religious services, thus we can very well understand why they a have a mystical role, besides their practical one.

Practical usage

Before electricity, candles and lamps were still the primary source of light. Even later, due to the low cost of oil, they were still used in the 19th century, in Europe on very extended areas. They had been the source of illumination for centuries, and that could not change over night. Candles continued to be used for a while longer, then they were replaced by the large electrical networks. The only role they still have today is creating a warm and comfortable ambiance, or in alternative therapies like aromatherapy. Candles were also used to measure time, if the manufacturing material was of high quality they would usually burn in a measurable amount of time, so many used them for this sole purpose. Now candle “clocks” are to be found only in museums.