Candles to Honor the Memory of a Loved One
Candles have long played an integral role in religious and memorial ceremonies since almost the beginning of recorded history. Historians estimate that humans invented candles as early as the 3rd century. Early candles were made by various methods. For example, ancient Romans are credited with creating candles made of rolled papyrus, which was dipped in tallow (animal fat) or beeswax. In Chinese cultures, candle was made of insects and seeds, and the candles were said to have been formed in paper tubes, with wicks made of rolled rice paper. During the Middle Ages, candles were made of beeswax, which offered a more pleasant burning effect, but they were not used as often because they were more expensive to produce.
Regardless of how candles were made, they brought comforting light to households during the dark hours of the night and early morning. Moreover, they illuminated countless religious ceremonies and are even the main staples in important traditions. Some examples of these traditions include lighting a candle when saying a prayer for a loved one, which is a Catholic custom, or lighting the eight candles on the Menorah during Hanukkah. Memorial candles are, perhaps, a custom that spans a number of different religions or cultural beliefs. Memorial candles are lit in remembrance of a lost loved one, not only to honor their life but also to pay tribute to their memory.
In years past, memorial candles were always the standard candles made of wax, which hold the live flame for light. While these candles are beautiful, they are often turned out because of the fire hazard they pose, and because of the potential mess they can create. Traditional wax candles not only drip, leaving unsightly layers of wax where they stand, but can also cause black discoloration from the soot the wick and flame produce. Additionally, many find great comfort in turning the candle on, because of the symbolism it represents - keeping the memory of a lost loved one alive. Having to extinguish the flame can definitely cause some sadness during the grieving process. Today, the option of an electric candle can help offer a memorial light that is truly enduring. These beautiful candles produce a realistic lighting effect that is incredibly similar to the light of the flame. Because they are powered electrically, they do not pose the same high-risk danger that a traditional candle does. Many individuals leave these electric candles on for hours, even days at a time, in honor of their lost loved one. They are available in a number of design options so that they can be incorporated into any memorial setting. Regardless of where they are placed, they are sure to offer a heartwarming effect that the entire family can enjoy.
Memorial candles offer families a way to keep the memory of a lost loved one alive because of the significance that the flame holds. Fire is an important element that not only harnesses life itself, but helped civilizations and societies throughout history thrive and flourish. A memorial flame then, represents the fact that the memory of a lost loved one will always be alive in the hearts of those they influenced throughout their lifetime.
