Are you familiar with the advent wreath? It’s a symbol of Christianity that’s commonly used during the holiday season. It’s an evergreen wreath with four candles that are lit successively each Sunday leading up to Christmas. But what do these candles represent? Each candle on the advent wreath symbolizes a significant aspect of the Christian faith.
The first candle, also known as the Hope candle or Prophet’s candle, represents the hope of a savior. It’s a reminder of the anticipation and longing for the arrival of Jesus as foretold by the prophets in the Old Testament. The second candle is the Peace candle or Bethlehem candle. It symbolizes the peace that Jesus brought to the world through his birth in Bethlehem. It also reminds us of the humble beginnings that Jesus had.
The third candle, also known as the Joy candle or Shepherd’s candle, symbolizes the joy that the shepherds experienced when they heard about the birth of Jesus. It’s also a reminder of the joy that comes from God’s love and the celebration of Christmas. Finally, the fourth candle is the Love candle or Angel’s candle. It represents the love that God has for us and the love that we should have for one another. With each candle that’s lit on the advent wreath, the anticipation and excitement for the arrival of Christmas grows.
History of the Advent Wreath
The Advent Wreath is a traditional symbol used by Christians all over the world, especially in the Western Church, in preparing for the celebration of Christmas. The origin of the Advent Wreath can be traced back to Germany in the 16th century when the Lutherans used it as a way of counting down the days until Christmas. Another version of its history suggests that the Advent Wreath was adapted from an ancient pagan tradition of lighting candles during the winter solstice to represent the hope of spring.
Initially, the first Advent Wreath had 20 red and 4 white candles which were lit every day before Christmas. The red candles represented the martyrs and the white ones symbolized purity. However, as time went by, the tradition was simplified into four candles which are now more commonly used in most churches and households. The use of the Advent Wreath started to spread in the 19th century, especially among Catholics, and is now a widely accepted symbol of hope, preparation, and anticipation for the coming of Christ.
What does each candle on the Advent Wreath symbolize?
- The first candle, which is usually purple, symbolizes hope and is called the “Prophecy Candle.” It represents the hope and expectation that the coming of Christ brings into the world.
- The second candle, also purple, is called the “Bethlehem Candle” or the “Preparation Candle.” It represents the preparation for the birth of Jesus which includes the journey of Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem, as well as our own spiritual preparation for Christ’s coming.
- The third candle, often pink or rose-colored, symbolizes joy and is called the “Shepherd’s Candle.” It represents the joy that the birth of Jesus brought to the world and the joy that we experience every time we remember his coming.
- The fourth candle, also purple, is called the “Angel’s Candle” or the “Candle of Love.” It represents the love that God has for us by sending his only begotten Son into the world to save us from our sins.
The Significance of the Advent Wreath Today
Today, the Advent Wreath continues to play an important role in the preparation for Christmas, especially among Christians who use it as a reminder of the true meaning of Christmas. It also serves as a symbol of unity among believers of different denominations, bringing us together in our shared faith and love for Jesus Christ.
The lighting of the candles on the Advent Wreath is an important tradition that is observed throughout the Advent season. It is typically done during Sunday services or at home during family devotions as a way of marking the passage of time until Christmas. As we light each candle and reflect on its symbolism, we are reminded of the hope, preparation, joy, and love that Jesus brings into our lives.
The Advent Wreath and Its Variations
Over time, the Advent Wreath has undergone some variations in design. Some churches use a fifth candle which is white and placed in the center of the wreath. This candle is lit on Christmas day and represents the arrival of Christ. Others have incorporated additional elements to the wreath, such as ribbons, ornaments, and other decorations. Nevertheless, the basic symbolism and significance of the Advent Wreath remain the same, and it is a powerful reminder of the true meaning of Christmas for believers all over the world.
| Color | Symbolism |
|---|---|
| Purple | Hope and Preparation |
| Pink/Rose | Joy |
| Purple | Love |
| White | The Arrival of Christ (Optional) |
Why are there Four Candles on the Advent Wreath?
The Advent wreath is a Christian tradition that originated in Germany in the 16th century. It consists of a wreath made of evergreen branches and four candles placed around the wreath. The candles represent the four Sundays of Advent, which is the season of preparation leading up to Christmas. Each candle has its own symbolic meaning, and the order in which they are lit varies depending on the denomination and tradition.
- The first candle represents hope.
- The second candle represents peace.
- The third candle represents joy.
- The fourth candle represents love.
The custom of the Advent wreath has become widespread among many Christian denominations, and it is a visual reminder of the spiritual preparation necessary to prepare for the birth of Jesus.
The four candles on the Advent wreath are not just a decorative element of the Christmas season. Each candle has a specific meaning and purpose to the religious observance of Advent. The candles add depth and symbolism to the season, and serve as daily reminders for believers of the spiritual significance of the season.
Understanding the four candles on the Advent wreath and their meanings can help deepen one’s understanding and appreciation of the anticipation and celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ.
Significance of the Circle shape of the Advent Wreath
The Advent Wreath is a circular wreath made of evergreen branches and decorated with four candles, typically three purple and one pink, though sometimes blue or white candles are used. The circle shape of the Advent wreath holds great significance and meaning throughout the Christian tradition.
The Number 3
- The Advent Wreath has four candles, but the number three holds particular significance here. The first candle is lit on the first Sunday of Advent, the second on the second Sunday, and so on. This means that the third candle is the one that is lit on Gaudete Sunday, the Sunday of Joy, and holds particular significance.
- There are many triads in the Bible, such as the Holy Trinity, the Three Wise Men, and the three virtues of faith, hope, and love. The number three also represents completeness and wholeness, a perfect triangle that evokes harmony and balance. It is a powerful and symbolic number that is woven throughout Christian belief and tradition.
- The three purple candles on the Advent Wreath represent the themes of Advent: hope, peace, and love. The pink candle, lit on Gaudete Sunday, represents joy and is a reminder of the coming Christmas celebration. It is a joyful reminder that the great light of Christ is coming into a dark world.
The Significance of the Evergreen
Evergreens are a symbol of eternal life, and their use in the Advent Wreath reminds us that Christ’s coming into the world means eternal life for those who believe. This symbolizes the unending, eternal nature of God’s love and our redemption as Christians.
The use of evergreens during Advent also reminds us of God’s ongoing providence and care throughout the year. Even when the world around us dies and withers, the trees remain green, reminding us that God is always with us, providing shelter and protection, and always bringing new life and growth to our world.
The Lighting of the Candles
The lighting of the Advent candles is a powerful symbol of anticipation and hope. As each candle is lit, we anticipate the coming of Christ’s light into the world. Symbolically, we light the way for Christ to enter our hearts and homes, and we are reminded of His light that shines in the darkness, bringing hope and comfort to all who believe.
| Candle | Name | Theme |
|---|---|---|
| 1st candle | Prophecy Candle | Hope |
| 2nd candle | Bethlehem Candle | Peace |
| 3rd candle | Shepherd Candle | Love |
| 4th candle | Angel Candle | Joy |
As we light the candles of the Advent Wreath each week, we are reminded of the powerful message of Advent and the hope, peace, love, and joy that Christ’s coming brings to our world.
The First Candle – Violet/Purple and its Meaning
The Advent wreath is typically adorned with four candles, each of which represents the four weeks leading up to Christmas. The first candle is always violet or purple, and it serves as a symbol for hope and anticipation. Here’s a closer look at what this candle represents:
- Hope: The violet/purple candle is meant to inspire feelings of hope and expectation. It symbolizes the hope and anticipation of the coming of Jesus, and it reminds us of the promise of eternal life through him.
- Anticipation: This candle is also a symbol of anticipation. It serves as a reminder that the season of Advent is a time to prepare ourselves for the coming of Jesus, and to anticipate his arrival with joy and excitement.
- Penitence: In some traditions, the first candle is also associated with penitence. It serves as a reminder that as we prepare for the arrival of Jesus, we must also examine ourselves and confess our sins in order to be ready to receive him.
In addition to its symbolic meanings, the violet/purple candle is also a reminder of the royalty of Jesus. Purple was a costly and rare dye in ancient times, and it was often reserved for royalty. This candle reminds us that Jesus is the King of Kings, and that his coming was a special and sacred event.
Overall, the first violet/purple candle on the Advent wreath is a powerful symbol of hope, anticipation, penitence, and royalty. It serves as a reminder to prepare our hearts for the coming of Jesus, and to approach his arrival with joy and reverence.
The Second Candle – Violet/Purple and its Meaning
The second candle on the advent wreath is usually violet or purple in color and symbolizes the second week of Advent. This candle is also known as the Candle of Preparation or the Bethlehem Candle. It represents the Old Testament prophets who foretold the coming of the Messiah and the preparation for his arrival.
- Violet or purple is a liturgical color that represents penance, sacrifice, and preparation.
- The lighting of the second candle represents the prophets of the Old Testament who announced the coming of Christ. The second candle reminds us that the season of Advent is a time of preparation and waiting for the arrival of Jesus, just as the prophets prepared the way for his coming.
- The Bethlehem Candle reminds us that Jesus was born in Bethlehem, fulfilling the prophecy of Micah 5:2, “But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, who are too little to be among the clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel, whose coming forth is from of old, from ancient days.”
The second candle on the advent wreath serves as a reminder that as we prepare for Christmas, we must also prepare our hearts and minds for Jesus. It reminds us to look back to the prophecies that foretold his coming and to look forward with hope to his second coming.
| Candle Color | Symbolism |
|---|---|
| Violet/Purple | Penance, sacrifice, and preparation |
In summary, the second candle on the advent wreath is violet or purple in color and symbolizes the Old Testament prophets who prepared the way for the coming of Jesus. It represents the season of Advent as a time of preparation and waiting for the arrival of Jesus. The Bethlehem Candle serves as a reminder that Jesus was born in Bethlehem, fulfilling the prophecy of Micah 5:2. As we light the second candle, we are reminded to prepare our hearts and minds for Jesus and to have hope for his second coming.
The Third Candle – Pink and its Meaning
The third candle on the advent wreath is usually pink in color and is lit on the third Sunday of Advent. Pink represents joy and is a reminder that our waiting for the birth of Jesus is almost over. It is a time to rejoice and be glad in the Lord, as we prepare our hearts for his coming.
- Pink is a symbol of hope and happiness, reminding us that the darkness is fading away and the light is about to shine through.
- The color pink also represents love and compassion. Jesus came into the world out of love and showed us how to love one another. We are called to be compassionate and show love to those around us, especially during the Advent season.
- The third candle is also referred to as the “Shepherd Candle.” It represents the joy that the shepherds felt when they received the news of the birth of Jesus. They were the first to witness the coming of the Savior and were filled with great excitement and joy.
During this time, we should focus on the joy and hope that comes from knowing that Jesus is coming into the world. It is a time to be grateful for the love and compassion that he showed us and to extend that same love and compassion to others. Let us prepare our hearts to receive the King of Kings with open arms and joyful hearts.
| Symbolism | Description |
|---|---|
| Pink Color | Represents joy, hope, love, and compassion. |
| Shepherd Candle | Represents the joy that the shepherds felt when they received the news of the birth of Jesus. |
As we light the third candle on the Advent wreath, let us be reminded of the joy and hope that comes from knowing that Jesus is coming into the world. May we be filled with compassion and love, just as he showed us, and may we always remember the joy that comes from his birth.
The Fourth Candle – Violet/Purple and its Meaning
The fourth candle on the advent wreath is typically colored violet or purple, and it signifies the theme of love or peace. The color violet is often associated with royalty, and it represents penance, preparation, and sacrifice. It is a reminder that we should be preparing our hearts for the coming of Jesus Christ, the King of Kings.
What does the number 7 symbolize on the advent wreath?
- The number 7 is often associated with completion or perfection
- It represents the seven days of creation
- It represents the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit (wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety, and fear of the Lord)
- It represents the seven sacraments of the Catholic Church
- It represents the seven petitions of the Lord’s Prayer
- It represents the seven virtues (faith, hope, charity, prudence, justice, fortitude, and temperance)
- It represents the seven joys of Mary
What is the significance of the fourth candle being violet/purple?
The color of the fourth candle, violet or purple, represents penance, preparation, and sacrifice. It is a call to prepare ourselves for the coming of Jesus Christ, the true King. This preparation involves introspection, prayer, and acts of charity or service to others. Violet/purple is also the color of Lent, which is a period of penance, purification, and preparation for Easter. By lighting the fourth candle, we are reminded of the importance of spiritual preparation in our lives.
The Fourth Candle: A Table of Symbolism
| Symbolism | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Color | Violet/Purple |
| Theme | Love/Peace |
| Number of Candles | Four |
| Number Symbolism | Completion/Perfection |
The fourth candle on the advent wreath is a reminder to prepare our hearts and minds for the coming of Jesus Christ, the true King of Kings. The color violet/purple is a symbol of penance, preparation, and sacrifice. It is a call to introspection, prayer, and acts of charity or service to others. By understanding the symbolism of the fourth candle, we can better prepare ourselves for the joyous celebration of Christmas.
The White Candle – Christ Candle and its Meaning
The final candle to be lit on the Advent wreath is the white candle, also known as the Christ Candle. This candle is lit on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day to symbolize the arrival of Jesus Christ, the savior of the world, and the light of the world.
- The white color of the candle represents purity and joy, as well as the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
- The center position of the candle on the wreath signifies the central role of Jesus Christ in the Christian faith.
- The flame of the candle represents the presence of God and the hope that Christ brings to the world.
The lighting of the Christ Candle on Christmas Eve is a moment of great significance for Christians around the world. It marks the culmination of the Advent season and the beginning of the Christmas season, and serves as a reminder of the birth of Jesus Christ in a humble manger in Bethlehem over 2,000 years ago.
During the lighting of the Christ Candle, many churches sing traditional hymns and carols, and the congregation is invited to contemplate the significance of Christ’s birth and the impact that his life and teachings have had on the world.
| Symbolism | Meaning |
|---|---|
| White color | Purity, Joy, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ |
| Center position on the wreath | Central role of Jesus Christ in Christian faith |
| Flame | Presence of God and the hope that Christ brings to the world |
The lighting of the Christ Candle is a beautiful and meaningful tradition that reminds us of the true meaning of Christmas and the gift of salvation that Jesus Christ offers to all who believe in him.
Importance of Lighting the Candles in Order
The Advent wreath is a symbol of anticipation and hope during the Advent season. Each candle on the wreath represents a different aspect of our faith. As we light a candle each Sunday of Advent, we are reminded of the coming of Christ and the anticipation of His birth. Lighting the candles in order is crucial to properly observe this traditional practice.
The Symbolism of Each Candle on the Advent Wreath
- The first candle represents hope, reminding us of the hope we have in Christ’s coming.
- The second candle represents faith, reminding us to have faith in the promises of God.
- The third candle represents joy, reminding us to rejoice in the coming of Christ.
- The fourth candle represents peace, reminding us of the peace that Christ brings to our hearts and lives.
- The fifth candle, lit on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, represents the light of Christ entering the world.
Why Lighting the Candles in Order is Important
Each candle on the Advent wreath has a specific meaning and purpose. Lighting the candles in order allows us to properly observe the passage of time during the Advent season and reflect on the different aspects of our faith. It also leads us to the final candle, which represents the light of Christ entering the world on Christmas Day. Properly lighting the candles in order keeps our focus on the true meaning of Christmas.
Additionally, lighting the candles in order helps us to remember the traditions and teachings of our faith. The repetition of these traditions each year helps us to reflect on the importance of the liturgical calendar and reminds us of our connection to the beliefs of our community and ancestors.
The Ninth Candle on the Advent Wreath
While the Advent wreath typically has only five candles, some churches or families may include a ninth candle as a centerpiece in the wreath. This candle, known as the Christ candle, is white and represents the birth of Christ. It is lit on Christmas Day in conjunction with the fifth candle and serves as a reminder of the true meaning of the holiday.
| Candle | Color | Symbolism |
|---|---|---|
| First Candle | Purple | Hope |
| Second Candle | Purple | Faith |
| Third Candle | Pink | Joy |
| Fourth Candle | Purple | Peace |
| Fifth Candle (Christ Candle) | White | The Birth of Christ |
The Advent wreath and the lighting of the candles serve as a reminder of the hope, faith, joy, and peace that the coming of Christ brings. Properly observing this tradition by lighting the candles in order allows us to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas and the importance of our faith.
How to Make an Advent Wreath at Home
If you want to add a personal touch to your Advent celebrations, you can make your own Advent wreath at home. Follow these simple steps:
- Gather materials: You will need a wreath form, evergreen branches, four candles (three purple and one pink), and decorations such as ribbon, pine cones, or berries.
- Attach evergreen branches to the wreath form using wire or floral tape. Make sure to cover the entire form, leaving no gaps.
- Insert the candles into the wreath, either by pushing them into the branches or using candle holders. The pink candle goes at the third position, while the purple ones go at the first, second, and fourth positions.
- Add decorations to the wreath, using wire or glue to attach them securely. Be creative and have fun!
What does each candle on the Advent wreath symbolize?
The Advent wreath is a tradition that originated in Germany in the 19th century. It consists of four candles arranged in a wreath, with each candle representing a particular aspect of the Advent season:
| Candle | Color | Symbolism |
|---|---|---|
| First Candle | Purple | Hope |
| Second Candle | Purple | Peace |
| Third Candle | Pink | Joy |
| Fourth Candle | Purple | Love |
Lighting the candles each week symbolizes the increasing light of Christ as Christmas approaches. The first candle represents hope and reminds us of the prophets who foretold the coming of Christ. The second candle represents peace and reminds us of John the Baptist, who prepared the way for Jesus. The third candle represents joy and reminds us of the angels who announced the birth of Christ to the shepherds. The fourth candle represents love and reminds us of the coming of Christ, who is the embodiment of God’s love for us.
Tips for using your Advent wreath
Here are some tips for incorporating your Advent wreath into your celebrations:
- Light one candle each week, starting with the first Sunday of Advent.
- Use the wreath as a centerpiece for your table, or display it in a prominent location in your home.
- Read Scripture passages related to each candle and reflect on their meaning as a family.
- Sing Advent hymns or carols as you light the candles.
- Use the wreath to mark the progression of the Advent season and to keep Christ at the center of your celebrations.
FAQs: What Does Each Candle on the Advent Wreath Symbolize?
1. What is the Advent Wreath?
The Advent Wreath is a Christian tradition that symbolizes the four-week period before Christmas. It consists of a circular wreath with four candles and one central candle.
2. What do the Four Candles on the Advent Wreath Symbolize?
The four candles on the Advent Wreath symbolize the four weeks of Advent. Each candle represents a different aspect of preparation for the coming of Christ: hope, peace, joy, and love.
3. What does the First Candle on the Advent Wreath Symbolize?
The first candle on the Advent Wreath symbolizes hope. It is also known as the Prophet’s candle, as it represents the anticipation of the Old Testament prophets for the coming of the Messiah.
4. What does the Second Candle on the Advent Wreath Symbolize?
The second candle on the Advent Wreath symbolizes peace. It is also known as the Bethlehem candle, as it represents the peace that the Christ-child brings.
5. What does the Third Candle on the Advent Wreath Symbolize?
The third candle on the Advent Wreath symbolizes joy. It is also known as the Shepherd’s candle, as it represents the joy that the shepherds experienced when they saw the baby Jesus.
6. What does the Fourth Candle on the Advent Wreath Symbolize?
The fourth candle on the Advent Wreath symbolizes love. It is also known as the Angel’s candle, as it represents the love that God has for His people in sending His Son to save them.
7. What does the Central Candle on the Advent Wreath Symbolize?
The central candle on the Advent Wreath is known as the Christ candle and is lit on Christmas Day. It represents the light of Christ coming into the world and is a reminder of the true meaning of Christmas.
Thanks for Reading!
We hope this article has helped you understand the symbolism behind each candle on the Advent Wreath. Remember that Christmas is not just about gifts and decorations but about celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. Don’t forget to visit us again for more interesting articles!