Christmas is right around the corner, and one of the ways Christians prepare for the festivities is by observing the four weeks of Advent leading up to the big day. Each Sunday of Advent, a candle on the Advent wreath is lit, signifying a different aspect of the Christmas story. The second candle of Advent, also known as the Bethlehem candle, has a special significance that marks an important turning point in the story.
This candle represents the hope and belief Mary and Joseph held as they traveled to Bethlehem in search of a place to stay. It is a reminder of their journey, filled with uncertainty and fear, as they faced the challenges of impending parenthood and being far from home. This candle commemorates their unwavering faith in God, trusting that everything would work out as it was supposed to. It serves as a beacon of light and hope, signaling the promise of a new beginning and the start of a new era in history.
As we light the second candle of Advent, let us take a moment to reflect on our own journey and the challenges we have faced this year. Let us also be reminded of the importance of hope and faith, especially during uncertain times. May the flicker of this candle serve as a symbol of strength and courage as we move forward, with the belief that better days are ahead.
The Tradition of Advent Candles
The tradition of Advent candles dates back to the medieval times where people would light candles to signify the anticipation and expectation of the coming of the Christ child. Advent, which means ‘coming’ in Latin, is a season of waiting and preparation in the Christian calendar. It is the period starting four Sundays before Christmas Day, which typically falls between November and December. During this time, Christians prepare for the birth of Jesus Christ by fasting, repenting, and participating in spiritual practices like prayer and charity.
- The first Advent candle symbolizes hope, and it is usually purple in color. Purple is a liturgical color that represents royalty and anticipation, reminding Christians of the majesty of Christ and his coming reign.
- The second Advent candle symbolizes love, and it is also purple or pink. Pink symbolizes joy and rejoicing, which is fitting for the message of God’s love for humanity through the coming of Christ.
- The third Advent candle symbolizes joy, and it is pink or purple. It represents the joy that comes with the arrival of Christ, as well as the joy of sharing his message with others.
- The fourth Advent candle symbolizes peace, and it is often purple. As the season of Advent draws to a close, Christians focus on the peace that Jesus brings into the world and our hearts.
Advent candles are typically arranged in a wreath, and each candle is lit on its corresponding week leading up to Christmas Day. The wreath is circular, representing the eternity of God and his love for us, which has no beginning or end. The candles themselves represent the light of Christ, which shines into the darkness of the world, bringing hope and joy to all who receive it.
| Week | Candle Color | Symbolism |
|---|---|---|
| First | Purple | Hope |
| Second | Pink or Purple | Love |
| Third | Pink or Purple | Joy |
| Fourth | Purple | Peace |
The tradition of Advent candles continues to be an important part of the Christian faith, reminding us of the hope, love, joy, and peace that Christ brings into our lives. As we light each candle, we are reminded of our need for Christ and our gratitude for his coming into the world.
The Meaning and Significance of the Advent Season
The Advent season is one of the most significant times for Christians around the world. It is a season of joy, preparation, and anticipation as we await the coming birth of Jesus Christ. It begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas Day and lasts for four weeks. During this time, we light candles on an Advent wreath, read the Bible, and attend church services to remember the story of Christ’s birth.
What Does the Second Candle of Advent Symbolize?
- The second candle of Advent is called the Bethlehem Candle or the Candle of Preparation. It is traditionally purple or blue in color.
- This candle symbolizes the preparation that took place for the birth of Jesus Christ. It represents the journey of Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem and their search for a place to stay.
- It also represents our own preparation for the coming of Christ into our lives. We prepare our hearts, minds, and souls to accept Jesus Christ as our Savior and Lord.
Advent Activities and Traditions
During the Advent season, many families and churches participate in activities and traditions to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. Some of these include:
- Lighting candles on an Advent wreath each week, starting with one candle and adding one more each week until four candles are lit.
- Reading daily reflections or devotions on the Advent season.
- Singing Christmas carols and hymns that tell the story of Christ’s birth.
- Participating in acts of kindness and giving to others.
Advent Wreath and Candle Meanings
The Advent wreath is a circular wreath made of evergreen branches, representing the eternal nature of God. It typically holds four candles, each with its own meaning:
| Candle | Color | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| First Candle | Purple | The Candle of Hope, representing the hope we have in Christ’s coming. |
| Second Candle | Purple or Blue | The Bethlehem Candle, representing preparation for Christ’s coming. |
| Third Candle | Pink | The Candle of Joy, representing the joy we feel in Christ’s coming. |
| Fourth Candle | Purple | The Candle of Love, representing the love of God and the love we share with others because of Christ’s coming. |
These candles remind us of the true meaning of Christmas and the hope, preparation, joy, and love that Christ’s coming brings to our lives.
The symbolism of lit candles in religious ceremonies
Throughout various religious ceremonies, the use of candles has always held symbolic importance. In Christianity, candles have been used to represent the presence of Christ, purity, and hope. Each candle has its own distinct symbol, and the number of candles lit varies depending on the occasion.
The symbolism of the second candle of advent
- The second candle of advent is traditionally purple in color, representing repentance and preparation for the coming of Christ.
- It is often referred to as the “Bethlehem Candle” as it symbolizes the journey that Mary and Joseph took to Bethlehem before the birth of Jesus.
- The flame of the second candle also represents the light of faith and hope that we carry with us through our own journeys.
The significance of multiple lit candles
During special religious ceremonies, multiple candles are often lit to signify different aspects of faith. The number of candles also holds its own symbolic meaning:
- Two candles represent the balance between the human and divine
- Three candles signify the Holy Trinity – the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit
- Four candles symbolize the four Sundays of Advent, leading up to the birth of Christ on Christmas Day
The use of specific candle colors
In addition to the number of candles, the color of each candle also holds significance in certain religious ceremonies:
| Candle Color | Symbolic Meaning |
|---|---|
| Purple | Repentance, preparation |
| Pink | Joy, celebration |
| White | Purity, light, resurrection |
| Red | Sacrifice, love, passion |
| Green | Growth, life, hope |
By understanding the symbolism of candles in religious ceremonies, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the meaning behind each ritual. Whether it’s the second candle of advent or any other special occasion, the light of each candle represents the hope and faith that we carry with us through life’s journeys.
The Biblical Origins of Advent
Advent is a time of spiritual preparation in the Christian faith. It is a period of four weeks leading up to Christmas, during which believers reflect on the coming of Jesus Christ. The word “advent” comes from the Latin “adventus,” meaning arrival or coming. But where did this tradition come from? Let’s take a look at the biblical origins of Advent.
- Old Testament Prophecies: The idea of a coming Messiah is a major theme in the Old Testament. The prophet Isaiah, for example, wrote about a “child born to us, a son given to us” who would “establish justice on earth.” (Isaiah 9:6-7) These prophecies created an expectation among the Jewish people of a savior who would bring peace to the world.
- New Testament Fulfillment: The birth of Jesus Christ is celebrated by Christians as the fulfillment of these Old Testament prophecies. Advent celebrates not only Christ’s birth, but also his Second Coming, when he will return to judge the living and the dead. This hope of Christ’s return is a central part of the Christian faith.
- Early Church Practices: The origins of the Advent season can be traced back to the early church. The first mention of Advent comes from the Council of Saragossa in Spain in 380 AD, which established a period of fasting for three weeks before Christmas. Over time, the period was extended to four weeks to align with the four Sundays leading up to Christmas.
Today, Advent is celebrated in different ways by different denominations and cultures. Some light candles on an Advent wreath, with each candle representing a different theme or symbol. The second candle, traditionally purple or blue, symbolizes peace. Others use an Advent calendar to count down the days until Christmas, often with small treats or messages hidden behind each window. Whatever the tradition, the focus of Advent remains on spiritual preparation and anticipation for the coming of Christ.
| Week | Theme | Symbol |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Hope | Prophecy Candle |
| 2 | Peace | Bethlehem Candle |
| 3 | Joy | Shepherd Candle |
| 4 | Love | Angel Candle |
As we celebrate the Advent season, may we use this time to reflect on the incredible gift of God’s love and grace. May we prepare our hearts for the coming of Christ, both in remembrance of his birth and in anticipation of his Second Coming. And may we carry the message of hope, peace, joy, and love to others, sharing the true meaning of Christmas with all those we encounter.
The History and Evolution of Advent Practices
Advent is a time of preparation for the birth of Christ and is celebrated in many Christian denominations. The word ‘advent’ comes from the Latin word ‘adventus’, which means ‘coming’. It is observed during the four Sundays leading up to Christmas and symbolizes the hope and anticipation of Jesus Christ’s arrival on Earth. Over the years, Advent practices have evolved, taking on different meanings and customs.
- The First Candle: The first candle lit during Advent symbolizes hope. It is known as the Prophecy Candle, as it is meant to reflect the Old Testament prophets who spoke of a coming Savior.
- The Second Candle: The second candle lit during Advent represents faith. It is also called the Bethlehem candle as it signifies the town where Jesus was born. This candle serves as a reminder of Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem in faith.
- The Third Candle: The third candle is pink and is known as the Shepherd Candle. It stands for joy and represents the rejoicing of the shepherds when they heard the good news of Jesus’ birth.
- The Fourth Candle: The fourth candle, also known as the Angel Candle, represents peace. It commemorates the angels’ message to the shepherds of Christ’s birth, which brought peace to the world.
- The Fifth Candle: The fifth candle, known as the Christ Candle, is lit on Christmas Day and represents the arrival of Christ. It is white, symbolizing Christ’s purity and the end of the Advent season.
Advent calendars have also become popular during this season. They typically consist of 24 numbered doors or windows that are opened each day leading up to Christmas. Behind each door is a small gift or treat that is revealed to symbolize the coming of Christ and to remind us of the true meaning of Christmas.
Overall, Advent practices have a rich history that has evolved over time. They help Christians to reflect on the season of expectation, recognize the prophecies that were fulfilled, and prepare for the coming of Jesus Christ.
| Advent Practice | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Wreath | The Advent wreath is a circle of evergreen foliage with four candles and one central candle in the middle, symbolizing the four Sundays of Advent and Christ in the center. |
| Colors | The colors of Advent are purple, pink, and white. Purple represents penance and preparation, while pink signifies joy. White represents purity and is used for the Christ Candle on Christmas. |
| Fasting | Some Christians fast during Advent as a way to prepare their hearts and minds for the coming of Christ. |
As we celebrate Advent, let us remember the hope, faith, joy, peace, and arrival of Christ. May this season remind us of the true meaning of Christmas.
The Role of Advent Wreaths in Christian Celebrations
Advent wreaths are an integral part of the Christian celebration of Advent, which is the period of four Sundays leading up to Christmas. The circular shape of the wreath represents eternity and the unending love of God, while the greens used in making the wreath serve as a symbol of life and hope. Traditionally, advent wreaths are made up of four candles, each of which represents different things.
The Second Candle of Advent
The second candle of Advent represents peace and is often referred to as the “Bethlehem candle.” The lighting of this candle is to remind Christians of the angels’ announcement of peace to the shepherds who were watching their flocks at night in Bethlehem—the birthplace of Jesus Christ.
- This candle is usually purple or blue, which are colors associated with royalty and penance, respectively.
- It is also the candle that represents John the Baptist, who was the messenger of peace and the one who prepared the way for Jesus Christ, the “Prince of Peace.”
- Together with the first candle, which represents hope, the second candle signifies the anticipation and expectation of the coming of the Messiah.
As with all the candles in the Advent wreath, the second candle reminds us of the coming of Christ and the hope, peace, love, and joy that he brings to the world. It is a time to reflect and meditate on the significance of Christmas and the ultimate sacrifice that God made for humanity.
So, as we light the second candle of Advent, may we be reminded of the peace that is found in Jesus Christ, and the peace that he came to bring to a world that was desperately in need of it.
| Candle Number | Candle Color | Symbolic Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | purple or blue | hope |
| 2 | purple or blue | peace |
| 3 | pink | joy |
| 4 | purple or white | love |
As we make our way towards Christmas, may we be reminded of the significance of the Advent wreath and the candles that it holds. May each candle serve as a reminder of the hope, peace, joy, and love that God has bestowed upon us in the birth of His son, Jesus Christ.
The Significance of the Colors of Advent Candles
Advent is a time of preparation and waiting for the arrival of Jesus Christ. It is a season of reflection and meditation, where followers of the Christian faith prepare their hearts and minds to celebrate the birth of the Savior. One of the most visible symbols of this season is the Advent wreath, which is adorned with four candles, each of which is lit on each of the four Sundays leading up to Christmas. These candles are not only beautiful but also carry deep significance.
The Second Candle of Advent
The second candle of Advent, also known as the Bethlehem candle, represents faith. It holds a crucial place in the Advent wreath, as it not only represents the faith that led Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem but also the faith that Christians have in the Second Coming of Jesus Christ.
- The second candle is often purple, representing repentance and humility, and the color of royalty, symbolizing the coming of the King of Kings.
- Some Advent wreaths use a blue candle for the second Sunday, signifying the hope and expectation of the season.
- In some traditions, the second candle is red, symbolizing the love of God and the sacrifice of Jesus Christ.
Regardless of the color, the second candle is a symbol of the faith that believers hold and must cultivate in preparation for the coming of Jesus. It reminds us to trust in God’s promises, as Mary and Joseph did, and to keep the flame of faith burning bright even in times of darkness.
The Significance of the Advent Candle Colors
The colors of Advent candles carry specific meanings that remind us of the significance of the season.
Traditionally, three candles on the Advent wreath are purple, while one is rose or pink. The colors of the candles are:
| Candle Color | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Purple | Repentance, preparation, and royalty |
| Rose/Pink | Joy, rejoicing, and hope |
| White | Christ’s purity and innocence, victory, divinity |
During the Advent season, the purple candles are lit on the first, second, and fourth Sundays, marking repentance and preparation. The pink or rose candle is lit on the third Sunday, often referred to as Gaudete Sunday, to celebrate the joy that Christ’s coming brings. Finally, the white candle in the center of the wreath is lit on Christmas Day to represent the purity and brightness of Christ’s light shining in the world.
The colors of the Advent candles remind us of the journey we make during this season, from repentance and preparation to rejoicing and celebration. They hold deep meaning and significance, and serve as a powerful reminder of the true reason for the season.
The relevance of Advent in contemporary Christian communities
Advent is a season of preparation and waiting, leading up to the celebration of Christmas. It is a time for Christians to reflect on the meaning of Christ’s coming and to prepare their hearts for the coming of the Savior. The tradition of Advent has been passed down through generations, and it continues to be an important part of contemporary Christian communities around the world.
The symbol of the second candle of Advent
During Advent, there are four candles that are lit on the Advent wreath. Each candle is lit on a different Sunday, and each one represents a different aspect of the anticipation and preparation for Christ’s coming. The second candle of Advent is often called the “Bethlehem Candle” or the “Candle of Peace.”
- The second candle represents the hope and peace that Christ’s coming brings to the world.
- It symbolizes the journey that Mary and Joseph took to Bethlehem and the humble setting in which Jesus was born.
- It also reminds us of the peace and goodwill that the angels announced to the shepherds, and the peace that Christ promised to bring to all who believe in Him.
The significance of Advent in contemporary Christian communities
In our fast-paced world, Advent provides a reminder to slow down and focus on what truly matters. It allows us to take a step back from the busyness of life and reflect on the meaning of Christmas. Advent gives us an opportunity to prepare our hearts and minds for the coming of Christ, and to focus on the hope, peace, joy, and love that His birth brings.
Advent also reminds us of the important role that Mary and Joseph played in the story of Christ’s birth. Like them, we are called to be faithful and obedient to God, and to trust in His plan for our lives. Advent encourages us to prepare ourselves for the coming of Christ, and to be ready to receive Him in our hearts.
| Week | Candle | Symbols |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Hope | Prophet’s Candle |
| 2 | Peace | Bethlehem Candle |
| 3 | Joy | Shepherd’s Candle |
| 4 | Love | Angel’s Candle |
Overall, the Advent season holds great significance for contemporary Christian communities. It is a time of reflection, preparation, and anticipation for the coming of Christ. The symbol of the second candle of Advent reminds us of the hope and peace that Christ’s coming brings, and encourages us to prepare our hearts for His coming.
Advent and its Connection to the Winter Solstice and Other Seasonal Celebrations
Advent is a time of preparation leading up to Christmas, where Christians reflect on the birth of Jesus Christ. It’s a season of hope, love, joy, and peace, and it usually starts on the fourth Sunday before Christmas Day. Advent is an important time in the Christian calendar, but its roots can be traced back to other seasonal celebrations.
Many cultures have celebrated the winter solstice, which is the day with the shortest amount of daylight and the longest night, for thousands of years. The winter solstice has been associated with rebirth, renewal, and the return of the sun. In Northern Europe, the celebration of Yule marked the turning of the year and the beginning of the agricultural cycle. Ancient Romans celebrated Saturnalia, which honored Saturn, their god of agriculture and harvest.
- In Christian traditions, Advent is connected to the winter solstice because it also marks a time of waiting for light to return.
- The Advent wreath, which contains four candles, is a common symbol of the season. The first candle is lit on the first Sunday of Advent, and an additional candle is lit each subsequent week until all four candles are burning. The second candle of Advent represents peace, and it is often referred to as the “Bethlehem candle” because it symbolizes the journey of Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem.
- The four candles also represent the four weeks of Advent, the four centuries of waiting between the prophet Malachi and the birth of Jesus, and the four virtues of Advent: hope, love, joy, and peace.
Advent is also connected to other seasonal celebrations, such as Hanukkah and Kwanzaa. Hanukkah is a Jewish festival of lights that commemorates the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem. It lasts for eight days and nights, and a candle is lit on each night of the festival. Kwanzaa is an African American holiday that celebrates family, community, and African American culture. It lasts for seven days, and a candle is lit each night to represent one of the seven principles of Kwanzaa.
Regardless of your religious or cultural background, Advent is a time to reflect on the themes of hope, love, joy, and peace. It’s a time to prepare for the coming of Christ, or the coming of light, or the renewal of the agricultural cycle. Whatever it represents to you, may this season be filled with meaning and purpose.
| Advent Candle | Week | Color | Symbolism |
|---|---|---|---|
| First Candle | Week 1 | Purple | Hope |
| Second Candle | Week 2 | Purple | Peace (Bethlehem Candle) |
| Third Candle | Week 3 | Pink | Joy (Shepherd Candle) |
| Fourth Candle | Week 4 | Purple | Love (Angel Candle) |
May the peace of the second candle of Advent fill you this holiday season, and may you find hope, love, and joy in the coming weeks.
The Relationship Between Advent and Other Christian Observances, such as Christmas and Epiphany.
Advent is a season of hope and preparation for the coming of Christ, celebrated by millions of Christians around the world. This season symbolizes a time of waiting and expectancy, where Christians reflect on the significance of Jesus Christ’s birth, life, and resurrection.
Advent has a close relationship with other Christian observances, particularly Christmas and Epiphany.
Advent and Christmas
- Advent is the period of four weeks leading up to Christmas, where Christians reflect on the birth of Jesus Christ.
- Christmas Day is the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, one of the most significant events in Christian history.
- Advent sets the stage for Christmas, and many churches and families celebrate Advent as an integral part of the Christmas season.
Advent and Epiphany
Epiphany is a Christian holiday that commemorates the visit of the Magi to the infant Jesus. The Magi, or the Three Wise Men, traveled from the East to Bethlehem to present gifts to the newborn King.
Epiphany is celebrated on January 6, following the twelve days of Christmas.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Advent Begins | Fourth Sunday before Christmas |
| Christmas Day | December 25 |
| Epiphany | January 6 |
Advent, Christmas, and Epiphany are all important Christian observances that celebrate the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. While each holiday has its unique significance, they are all parts of the Christian faith and help followers to deepen their relationship with God.
FAQs: What Does the Second Candle of Advent Symbolize?
1. What is the second candle of Advent called?
The second candle of Advent is called the Bethlehem Candle.
2. What does the Bethlehem Candle symbolize?
The Bethlehem Candle symbolizes faith and the journey to Bethlehem.
3. Why is the Bethlehem Candle purple?
Purple is the liturgical color for Advent. It represents preparation and penitence.
4. What is the significance of lighting the second candle?
Lighting the second candle marks the second week of Advent and symbolizes the expanding of hope and the coming of the Christ Child.
5. Should the second candle be lit at the same time as the first candle?
No, the second candle should be lit on the second Sunday of Advent, after the first candle has already been lit.
6. Can the second candle be any color besides purple?
Traditionally, the second candle is purple, but some churches may use a different color that symbolizes hope.
7. What can I do to observe the lighting of the second candle at home?
You can light the second candle on a homemade Advent wreath, or simply light a purple candle and read a devotional to mark the second week of Advent.
Closing Thoughts
Thanks for reading about what the second candle of Advent symbolizes. We hope this information has deepened your understanding of this Advent tradition. Remember to check back for more informative articles in the future!