There are many traditions in Christian society based on scripture and tradition. Some traditions have a beneficial effect on the souls of people, which is why they are called pious. Such Christian traditions include the practice of lighting candles in the temple.
A candle is a source of light. The use of lamps emitting light (fire) took place even in the Old Testament times. This shows some symbolism based on the Holy Scriptures. Even at the beginning of God's creation of the world, the Lord separated the light from the darkness. Therefore, light is a symbol of the presence of God.
In the Old Testament, special lamps were used, which were vessels with olive oil and a wick made of flax. It was a kind of lamp. It was used in the Tabernacle, and later in the Temple of Jerusalem, as a symbol of the presence of divine grace. Such lamps were lit in the Tabernacle and Jerusalem Temple during prayer.
During the New Testament, lamps were also used by Christians from the first centuries. This is mentioned in the book of the Acts of the Apostles. In the days after the birth of Jesus Christ, not only lamps, but also the candles themselves could be called lamps. In New Testament times, candles were not only symbolic of the presence of God, but were also practically used during prayers. So, candles served as a source of light. In the first centuries, Christians prayed at night, as they were persecuted by the Roman authorities.
With the development of the service regulations, the use of candles in temples, as well as in prayer meetings, is already tightly entering Christian life. Candles were used not only as a source of light, they were a symbol of the uncreated light of Christ, who brought humanity out of the darkness of the night.
In addition, the candle symbolizes a sacrifice to God. And the very moment of burning a candle should remind a person of the high mission of the latter. A person should have a flaming heart of love for everyone around him, by his own example to bring light to people. Such is the symbolic interpretation of the understanding of candles in modern Christian society.
At present, candles in temples are used as sacrifices made to God. During the time when a person lights a candle, it is customary to pray for his needs to God, the Virgin or saints. A candle can also be a sign of human memory. A pious tradition is widely spread to place candles in memory of deceased people.
