Advent candle history
The origin and meaning of the Advent candle are linked to a special Christmas tradition that has deep symbolism and has been part of Christian culture for centuries. The Advent period refers to the four weeks leading up to Christmas, a time of waiting and preparation for the birth of Jesus. The Advent wreath, with its four candles, is a symbol of this period and a custom associated with the holiday developed in the 19th century.
The tradition of the Advent wreath originated in 19th-century Germany. The first Advent wreath was created in 1839 by a German Lutheran pastor named Johann Hinrich Wichern to help street children keep track of the days until Christmas. Wichern attached 24 candles to a wooden wagon wheel: 20 small red candles for weekdays and four larger ones for Sundays. As time went on, a candle was lit each day, allowing children to follow the progress of the Advent season in a spectacular way.
The idea of the 24-candle wreath was simplified over time, and the 20 red candles were dropped, leaving four larger candles, representing the four Sundays of Advent. This version spread in Germany, then throughout Europe, and later became popular worldwide.
The symbolism and colors of the candles
The colors and symbolism of the Advent candles also have special meanings. According to the original Christian tradition, the three purple and one pink candles carry different virtues and meanings:
First Candle (Purple) – The candle of faith, a symbol of arrival and hope.
Second Candle (purple) – The Candle of Peace, symbolizing the expectation of salvation.
Third Candle (pink) – The Candle of Joy, reflecting the joy of the approaching holiday in the middle of the Advent season.
Fourth Candle (purple) – The Candle of Love, symbolizing the arrival of the love of Jesus.
How did the modern Advent wreath come about?
Modern Advent wreaths are usually made of pine branches, and the circular shape symbolizes eternity. Many families also make their own Advent wreaths at home, which are blessed on the first Sunday of Advent. Lighting Advent candles is an important ritual in both church services and homes, bringing the spirit of the holiday closer.
The use of Advent candles and wreaths has now gone beyond the Christian holiday circle and has spread worldwide, making the Advent season not only a religious but also a cultural and family celebration. The warm light of the Advent wreath and the increasing number of candles symbolize the joy and love that Christmas brings to everyone.
Closing Thoughts
The symbolism of Advent candles is deep and multifaceted, embodying the values of faith, peace, joy, and love. Preparing with an Advent wreath and candles revives the tradition of expectation and hope, and helps us to prepare ourselves spiritually for the holiday amidst the hustle and bustle of everyday life.