As the holiday season grows closer, a common sight that can be found in churches and homes alike is the advent wreath. This wreath, adorned with four candles, holds great significance in the Christian faith as it represents the anticipation and preparation leading up to Christmas Day. Specifically, it is the purple candles on the advent wreath that carry the most symbolism.
These purple candles represent the Advent season of hope and expectation. As we light these candles each week, we are reminded of the Old Testament prophets who foretold the coming of the Messiah. It is a time where we take a step back, reflect on our lives, and prepare for the coming of Jesus. The lighting of these candles acts as a beacon of hope, signaling the coming of a brighter future.
So why purple? It’s believed that the color was chosen because it represents royalty and is also associated with penance and mourning, both of which are relevant in the Advent season. It serves as a reminder that while we celebrate the birth of Jesus, it’s also important to remember the sacrifice he made for us. As we continue to light these candles in the weeks leading up to Christmas Day, may they serve as a reminder to us all of the hope and promise that come with the birth of Christ.
History of the Advent Wreath
The Advent wreath has become an essential decoration in many Christian homes and religious institutions worldwide. Its history dates back to the 16th century when German Lutherans created the wreath to symbolize the coming of Christ. The word Advent originates from the Latin word “adventus,” meaning “coming.” During Advent, Christians prepare their hearts, minds, and souls for the birth of Jesus.
The Advent wreath is a circular garland made of evergreen foliage representing eternal life. The wreath includes four candles, which are lit every Sunday during the Advent season. The candles represent hope, peace, joy, and love. Three of the candles are usually purple, while one is pink or rose-colored.
- The purple candles symbolize the penitential spirit of the Advent season. They represent the need for repentance and the cleansing of sin in one’s life. Purple is also a traditional liturgical color associated with royalty and solemnity.
- The pink candle symbolizes the third Sunday of Advent, also known as Gaudete Sunday. Gaudete means “rejoice” in Latin. This candle represents the joy that Christians experience as they prepare their hearts for the arrival of the Christ Child.
Over time, the Advent wreath has become an essential part of the liturgical tradition in many Christian denominations, including Catholic, Lutheran, Anglican, Methodist, and Presbyterian. The use of an Advent wreath during the Christmas season is also a popular custom adopted in many households worldwide.
Christian families light the candles each Sunday during the Advent season as a way to remember the significance of Jesus Christ’s birth. It is a great way for families to come together and reflect on Jesus’ teachings, share Bible stories, and sing hymns as they prepare for Christmas Day.
If you are searching for an alternative way to celebrate Christmas, establishing an Advent wreath in your home is a great place to start a new holiday tradition.
Meaning of Advent
Advent is a time of preparation and waiting for the celebration of Christ’s birth. It is a season of joy and hope that starts four Sundays before Christmas day. The word advent means “coming” or “arrival.” During this time, Christians prepare their hearts to receive Jesus and look forward to his second coming.
What do the purple candles on the advent wreath symbolize?
- The color purple represents penance, repentance, and royalty. During Advent, it is a reminder of the penitential aspect of the season. Christians are called to repent and turn away from their sins.
- Purple is also the color of royalty, symbolizing the waiting for the coming of the King of Kings, Jesus Christ.
- In some traditions, the first candle is also purple, representing hope. The second candle, also purple, symbolizes the peace that Jesus brings.
The advent wreath is a circle of evergreen branches with four candles, one for each Sunday of Advent. Each week, a new candle is lit, and each candle has its own meaning.
A common tradition is to light the first candle on the first Sunday of Advent, the second candle on the second Sunday, the third candle on the third Sunday, and the forth candle on the fourth Sunday. Finally, on Christmas day, the center candle, which is usually white, is lit. This candle represents the birth of Jesus Christ, the light of the world.
| Candle | Color | Symbolism |
|---|---|---|
| First | Purple | Hope |
| Second | Purple | Peace |
| Third | Pink | Joy |
| Fourth | Purple | Love |
| Center | White | Christ, the light of the world |
Overall, the purple candles on the advent wreath symbolize penance, repentance, royalty, hope, and peace. It reminds Christians to prepare their hearts for the coming of Jesus Christ, the King of Kings.
Symbolism of Candles in Christianity
Candles have been a significant part of Christian traditions since ancient times. In Christianity, candles symbolize different aspects of faith, and they are often used during various ceremonies and religious observances. One of the most prominent uses of candles in Christianity is on the advent wreath, which holds four candles, each with its symbolism and meaning.
The Purple Candles on the Advent Wreath
- The purple candles on the advent wreath symbolize penance and preparation for Christ’s second coming. This season of waiting and preparation is called Advent.
- Traditionally, the color purple is associated with repentance and sacrifice. The purple candles, therefore, remind Christians of their need to repent their sins and prepare their hearts for Christ’s coming.
- In some churches, the third Sunday of Advent is known as Gaudete Sunday, which means “rejoice.” On Gaudete Sunday, the third purple candle is often replaced with a pink one, which symbolizes joy and rejoicing in anticipation of Christ’s birth.
The Symbolism of Candles in Christianity
The use of candles in Christianity has multiple meanings and symbolism. Here are some of the most common and significant:
- Candles represent the light of Christ that shines in the darkness and illuminates our path. This symbolism is why candles often accompany prayers, making them more meaningful and powerful.
- The flames of the candles symbolize the Holy Spirit, and the light that candles give off symbolizes love, faith, and hope.
- In some Christian traditions, the candles on the advent wreath have specific colors and meanings. The first candle, often called the “prophecy candle,” symbolizes expectation and hope. The second, the “Bethlehem candle,” symbolizes faith. The third, the “shepherd’s candle,” symbolizes joy, and the fourth, the “angel’s candle,” symbolizes peace.
A Candle and Its Symbolism in the Christian Celebration
Candles play an essential role in Christian celebrations, signifying the light of Christ. Their flame reminds us that even in the darkest hours, there is light and hope. Candles are used in many Christian rites, from baptism to communion to funerals. They hold a significant symbolism that transcends time and culture. Understanding the meaning behind the candles, especially the purple candles on the advent wreath, enriches Christian faith and prepares hearts and minds for the coming of Christ.
| Candle Color | Symbolism |
|---|---|
| White | Purity, Righteousness, Holiness, and Light |
| Purple | Penitence, Penance, Royalty, and Sacrifice |
| Red | The Passion, Sacrifice, Blood, and Zeal |
This categorized list provides a brief understanding of the different colors and what they stand for concerning candles in Christianity.
Significance of the Color Purple
The color purple is a significant color not only in the church but also in many other aspects of our lives. The purple hue symbolizes royalty, power, and wealth. Historically, purple dye was expensive to produce and was only used by wealthy individuals, making it a status symbol. In the church, purple is used as a symbol of Advent. The Advent season is the period of preparation for the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ.
The Number Four
- The Advent wreath consists of four candles that are lit in succession each Sunday before Christmas. The candles symbolize the four weeks of Advent.
- The number four is significant in biblical numerology. It represents completeness and wholeness.
- There are four Gospels in the Bible, four evangelists who wrote them, and four creatures around the throne in heaven.
The Purple Candles
Out of the four candles on the Advent wreath, three are purple, and one is pink. The purple candles represent penance, preparation, and sacrifice. It’s a reminder for us to prepare our hearts and minds for the coming of Jesus Christ.
The first purple candle is traditionally called the “prophecy” candle or “hope” candle. It symbolizes the hope and expectation of the Old Testament prophets for the coming of the Messiah.
The second purple candle is the “Bethlehem” candle or “faith” candle. It represents Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem and their faith in God’s plan.
The third purple candle is the “shepherd” candle or “joy” candle. It signifies the joy the shepherds felt when they received the news of Jesus’ birth from the angels.
| Candle | Color | Week Symbolized |
|---|---|---|
| Prophecy | Purple | Week 1 |
| Bethlehem | Purple | Week 2 |
| Shepherd | Purple | Week 3 |
| Angel | Pink | Week 4 |
The pink candle is lit on the third Sunday of Advent, and it represents the joy and celebration that comes with the birth of Jesus Christ.
Interpretation of Light and Darkness
As we approach Christmas, the lighting of the candles on the Advent wreath reminds us of the coming of the Light of the World. But what do the purple candles on the Advent wreath symbolize? One common interpretation is related to the contrast between light and darkness.
- Purple candles symbolize royalty and the expectation of a coming king.
- Each candle represents one of the four weeks of Advent before Christmas
- The first purple candle represents hope, and it is lit on the first Sunday of Advent to signify anticipation and waiting.
While it’s common to focus on the hope and anticipation represented by the purple candles, we must not forget that they also highlight a sharp contrast. The darkness, represented by the absence of light, serves as a reminder of what we’re waiting for. When we light candles in the midst of darkness, we demonstrate our faith that the Light of the World is coming soon.
It’s interesting to consider how we interpret light and darkness from a spiritual perspective. Light represents life, goodness, and the presence of God. Darkness, on the other hand, represents evil, suffering, and the absence of God.
| Light | Darkness |
|---|---|
| Guidance | Confusion |
| Revelation | Ignorance |
| Hope | Despair |
| Love | Hate |
During Advent, we wait for the light of Christ to break into our world, bringing clarity, knowledge, hope, and love. As we light each purple candle, we acknowledge the darkness around us and the need for Christ’s light to shine in our lives.
Biblical References to the Color Purple
The color purple is mentioned several times in the Bible, and its significance varies depending on the context. Here are some of the most notable references:
- In the book of Exodus, purple is one of the colors mentioned in the instructions for making the tabernacle. The fabric used to make the priestly garments was to be purple, along with blue and scarlet.
- In the New Testament, a woman named Lydia is described as a seller of purple cloth. When she heard the teachings of the apostle Paul, she became a Christian and was baptized with her household.
- Another New Testament reference to purple comes from the story of the rich man and Lazarus. The rich man is described as wearing fine linen and purple, which was a symbol of wealth and status in ancient times.
These references show that the color purple was associated with royalty, wealth, and power in biblical times. It was a rare and expensive color to produce, as it was made from a type of shellfish found only in the Mediterranean. In many cultures, purple was reserved for the ruling class and was seen as a symbol of authority and prestige.
When we see purple candles on the advent wreath, we can remember these biblical references and the significance of the color. The use of purple helps to convey a sense of majesty and solemnity during the season of Advent, as we prepare to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ.
So next time you see a purple candle, think about the stories behind the color and its rich history.
The Use of the Advent Wreath in Christmas Traditions Around the World
The Advent wreath is a popular Christmas tradition in many parts of the world. It is a symbol of the coming of Christ, and it is often used in the weeks leading up to Christmas. One of the most recognizable features of the Advent wreath is the candles that are placed on it. While the candles can vary in color, the purple candles are particularly significant. Here’s what they symbolize:
The Symbolism of the Purple Candles
- Preparation: The first purple candle on the Advent wreath represents preparation. It symbolizes the time in which we prepare ourselves for the coming of Christ. This can take many forms- prayer, repentance, and making amends with our loved ones.
- Hope: The second purple candle represents hope. It reminds us that Christ is our hope in the midst of darkness. We light the candle to remind ourselves that there is always hope, even in the darkest of times.
- Joy: The third candle on the Advent wreath symbolizes joy. It’s a reminder that although we still await the birth of Christ, there’s reason for us to be joyful. Christ’s birth is a reason for celebration, and it’s something that we should be excited about.
- Love: The fourth purple candle represents love. It’s a reminder of the love that God has for us and the love that we should have for one another. This love was ultimately expressed through the birth of Christ, and we’re called to share that same love with others.
- Repentance: In some traditions, a fifth candle is added. This candle is usually white and is known as the “Christ candle.” It represents the birth of Christ and is lit on Christmas Day. The fifth candle can also symbolize repentance and forgiveness.
- Spirituality: Another tradition uses the pink candle as the third candle. This candle represents joy and is lit on the third Sunday of Advent. The use of the pink candle is meant to symbolize the spirituality behind the season.
- Completeness: In some traditions, there are seven candles on the Advent wreath. The seventh candle is usually white and is lit on Christmas Day. It represents completeness and the birth of Christ as the ultimate completion of God’s plan for humanity.
Conclusion
As you can see, the purple candles on the Advent wreath represent important themes surrounding the birth of Christ- preparation, hope, joy, and love. Their use in Christmas traditions around the world is a testament to the universal nature of the Advent wreath and its ability to unite individuals and families in their celebration of the coming of Christ.
The Four Sundays of Advent and Their Themes
Advent is the season of the Christian calendar that begins four Sundays before Christmas Day. The word “Advent” means “coming” or “arrival” and signifies the period of preparation before the birth of Jesus Christ. The Advent wreath is a symbolic representation of the countdown to Christmas. Each week, a candle is lit on the wreath in anticipation of the coming of the Messiah. The wreath consists of four candles, three purple and one rose, arranged in a circle with one white candle in the center. But what do the purple candles symbolize?
The Purple Candles on the Advent Wreath
- Purple is a liturgical color that represents penitence, repentance, and preparation.
- The first candle symbolizes hope and is often called the “Prophet’s Candle.”
- The second candle represents faith and is often called the “Bethlehem Candle.”
- The third candle symbolizes joy and is often called the “Shepherd’s Candle.”
- The fourth candle represents peace and is often called the “Angel’s Candle.”
- The rose candle, typically lit on the third Sunday of Advent or “Gaudete Sunday,” symbolizes the joy that the birth of Jesus brings into the world.
Together, these candles represent the spiritual journey of the faithful, who await the coming of Christ with hope, faith, joy, and peace. The purple candles specifically represent the solemnity and preparation required to receive Christ, while the rose candle emphasizes the joy that awaits us in the birth of Jesus.
The Four Sundays of Advent and Their Themes
Each Sunday in Advent has a specific theme that reflects the journey of the faithful towards the birth of Christ. Here are the themes of the four Sundays of Advent:
- The first Sunday of Advent is centered on hope and emphasizes the anticipation of the coming of Jesus Christ.
- The second Sunday emphasizes faith and the preparation of the Way of the Lord.
- The third Sunday focuses on joy and highlights the joy that the birth of Jesus brings into the world.
- The fourth Sunday symbolizes peace and encourages believers to prepare their hearts for the coming of Christ.
The Advent Wreath
The Advent wreath is a symbol of the anticipation of the coming of Christ. It consists of four candles and a wreath of evergreen branches, representing eternal life. The evergreens also symbolize the new growth and hope that comes with the coming of Christ. On each Sunday of Advent, one candle is lit, and a prayer is offered in anticipation of the coming of Christ on Christmas Day. The lighting of the Advent candles is a way for Christians to prepare their hearts for the coming of Christ and to celebrate the joy of Christmas.
| Candle | Name | Color | Theme |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st Candle | Prophet’s Candle | Purple | Hope |
| 2nd Candle | Bethlehem Candle | Purple | Faith |
| 3rd Candle | Shepherd’s Candle | Purple | Joy |
| 4th Candle | Angel’s Candle | Purple | Peace |
| 5th Candle | Gaudete Candle | Rose | Joy (Third Sunday of Advent) |
The Advent wreath reminds us of the four thousand years of waiting and anticipation of the coming of Christ, as well as the journey of the faithful towards the promised Messiah. It encourages us to prepare our hearts and souls for the coming of Christ and to celebrate the hope, faith, joy, and peace that he brings into our lives.
Modern Interpretations of the Advent Wreath: What Do the Purple Candles Symbolize?
The Advent Wreath is a powerful symbol of the season for Christians around the world. The wreath itself is often made of evergreen branches, symbolizing the hope of eternal life, and it features four candles, each representing one of the weeks leading up to Christmas. Three of the candles are typically purple, while one is pink. But what do the purple candles on the Advent wreath symbolize?
- Hope and expectation: The color purple is often associated with royalty and nobility, and it is also the liturgical color for Advent. In this context, it symbolizes the hope and expectation of the coming of Christ, the ultimate King.
- Repentance and preparation: The use of purple can also represent repentance and preparation, as Christians prepare for the coming of Christ and reflect on their own lives in preparation for his arrival.
- Penitence and sacrifice: Some Christians view the use of purple candles as a symbol of penitence and sacrifice, reminding them of the sacrifices that were made by God and by Jesus on their behalf.
The purple candles are typically lit on the second and third Sundays of Advent, while the pink candle is lit on the third Sunday. This pink candle, also known as the “Shepherd’s Candle”, represents joy and is often associated with the shepherds who came to worship Jesus on the night of his birth.
Ultimately, the symbolism of the Advent Wreath and its candles is open to interpretation, and different churches and communities may have their own unique perspectives. However, the use of purple candles on the wreath is a longstanding tradition with deep roots in Christian history and theology.
Interested in learning more about the Advent Wreath and its traditions? Check out this table below for a quick overview:
| Candle | Color | Sunday | Symbolic Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|
| First Candle | Purple | First Sunday of Advent | Hope |
| Second Candle | Purple | Second Sunday of Advent | Preparation/Repentance |
| Third Candle | Pink | Third Sunday of Advent | Joy/Shepherd’s Candle |
| Fourth Candle | Purple | Fourth Sunday of Advent | Love |
Now that you know what the purple candles on the Advent Wreath symbolize, take a moment to reflect on their meaning in your own life. As we move closer to Christmas, let us embrace the hope, joy, and love that this season brings.
Alternative Symbols and Colors Used in Advent Celebrations
While purple candles are the most common symbol used in Advent wreaths, there are other colors and symbols that are sometimes used in Advent celebrations. Here are a few examples:
- Blue candles: Some churches and families use blue candles instead of purple to symbolize hope or anticipation. Blue is also traditionally associated with Mary, the mother of Jesus.
- Pink candle: The third candle is sometimes pink, representing joy or rejoicing. This candle is lit on the third Sunday of Advent.
- White candle: Some Advent wreaths include a fifth candle in the center, which is white and is sometimes called the Christ candle. This candle is lit on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day to represent the birth of Jesus.
In addition to these alternative candle colors, some churches and families use other symbols in their Advent celebrations, such as:
- Evergreens: The evergreen branches used in Advent wreaths symbolize everlasting life and hope.
- Stars: The star on top of the Christmas tree is sometimes used as a symbol in Advent celebrations, representing the Star of Bethlehem that guided the wise men to Jesus.
- Angels: Some Advent wreaths include angel figurines or ornaments to symbolize the angels who announced Jesus’ birth to the shepherds.
While the symbols and colors used in Advent celebrations can vary, the overarching theme remains the same: preparing our hearts to receive the coming of Christ. Whether it’s through the traditional purple candles or alternative symbols, Advent is a time of waiting, anticipation, and excitement as we prepare to celebrate the birth of Jesus.
What do the purple candles on the advent wreath symbolize?
1. What is an advent wreath?
An advent wreath is a wreath made of evergreen branches and four candles, which is typically set up on the first Sunday of Advent.
2. Why are there four candles on an advent wreath?
There are four candles on an advent wreath to represent the four Sundays of Advent, leading up to Christmas.
3. What do the purple candles on the advent wreath symbolize?
The purple candles on the advent wreath symbolize the period of preparation for the coming of Jesus, which is marked by repentance and prayer.
4. How are the purple candles different from the other candles on the advent wreath?
The purple candles are different from the other candles on the advent wreath because they represent a more solemn and reflective mood, contrasting with the joyful and celebratory mood of the other candles.
5. What is the meaning of the first purple candle on the advent wreath?
The meaning of the first purple candle on the advent wreath is hope, representing the expectation of the coming of Jesus.
6. What is the meaning of the second purple candle on the advent wreath?
The meaning of the second purple candle on the advent wreath is faith, representing the ability to believe in the promise of salvation.
7. What is the significance of the purple color of the advent candles?
The purple color of the advent candles represents royalty, penitence, and preparation.
Thanks for Reading
We hope this article was helpful in understanding the meaning behind the purple candles on the advent wreath. Don’t hesitate to come back to learn more about different Christmas traditions. May this holiday season be filled with joy and blessings!