The holiday season is upon us once again, and with it comes a beloved tradition that many of us know and cherish: Advent. One of the most distinct and memorable aspects of Advent is the lighting of candles, which have long been used to symbolize the anticipation and hope of the season. There are typically four candles that are lit throughout the Advent season, each one carrying its own unique meaning and significance.
So what do these four candles of Advent actually symbolize? To put it simply, they represent the four weeks leading up to Christmas, with each candle representing a different aspect of the season. The first candle is often referred to as the “hope” candle, as it is meant to inspire us to look forward to the coming of Christ and all that his arrival represents. The second candle is known as the “peace” candle, and its purpose is to remind us of the serenity and tranquility that can be found amidst the busyness and chaos of the holidays. The third candle represents “joy,” reminding us to embrace the happiness and excitement of the season, while the fourth and final candle is the “love” candle, reminding us of the overwhelming love that God has for each and every one of us.
The history and significance of Advent
Advent is a Christian tradition celebrated by millions of people worldwide. The word ‘Advent’ derives from the Latin term “adventus,” meaning “coming,” and it represents the anticipation of the coming of Christ. Advent is celebrated for four weeks or until Christmas Eve, whichever comes first.
The first historical records of Advent celebrations date back to the 4th century, where it was initially observed as a fast by Christians in preparation for the celebration of Christmas. However, it was in the 6th century that Advent evolved into a distinct liturgical season. Throughout the years, the church has developed additional customs and traditions associated with the season.
- Advent wreath – The Advent wreath is adorned with four candles, three purple, and one pink, with each candle representing each of the four Sundays of Advent. These candles remind the faithful of the four great events leading up to Christ’s birth, the four weeks of Advent, and the four virtues of hope, love, peace, and joy. Traditionally, the wreath is made of evergreens, which symbolize eternal life.
- Purple and pink colors – Purple is the primary color of Advent. It symbolizes penance, repentance, and royalty. The third candle, which is pink, is lit on Gaudete Sunday, the third Sunday of Advent, representing joy and rejoicing.
- Advent calendar – An Advent calendar is a calendar that counts down the days of Advent, usually starting on December 1st. Many Advent calendars have small doors or drawers that open each day, revealing a treat or a religious message.
The significance of Advent is to remind Christians to prepare their hearts and minds for the coming of Christ. It is a time of anticipation, repentance, and joy. During Advent, believers are encouraged to reflect on their lives and consider how they can better align themselves with Christ’s teachings.
Overall, Advent is a meaningful and essential tradition of the Christian faith that has a rich history and deep significance. It is a time of hope, love, peace, and joy, and Christians all over the world look forward to welcoming Christ into their lives once again.
The Origin of the Advent Wreath
The Advent wreath, a symbol of the season of Advent in the Western Christian Church, is believed to have originated in Germany in the 16th century as a Lutheran tradition. The wreath is typically made up of evergreen branches, symbolizing eternal life, and four candles, each with a specific meaning and significance for the Advent season.
- The first candle, also known as the Prophecy Candle or Candle of Hope, symbolizes the hope of Christ’s coming.
- The second candle, known as the Bethlehem Candle or Candle of Preparation, symbolizes the preparation for the coming of Christ.
- The third candle, called the Shepherd Candle or Candle of Joy, symbolizes the joy of the angels announcing the birth of Christ.
- The fourth candle, also known as the Angel Candle or Candle of Love, symbolizes the love of Christ and his arrival as the light of the world.
Over time, the use of the Advent wreath has spread beyond its original Lutheran roots and has become a common practice in many other Christian denominations around the world, as well as in non-denominational settings. It is often used in churches as a focal point for seasonal worship services and is also used in homes as a way of marking the progression of Advent.
The Advent wreath continues to offer Christians a powerful symbol of hope, joy, and love during the Advent season, reminding us of the coming of Christ and the hope that his arrival brings to the world.
| Candle | Color | Symbolism |
|---|---|---|
| First Candle | Purple | Hope/Prophecy |
| Second Candle | Purple | Preparation/Bethlehem |
| Third Candle | Pink | Joy/Shepherd |
| Fourth Candle | Purple | Love/Angel |
Understanding the origin and meaning of the Advent wreath can deepen our experience of the Advent season and help us to better appreciate its significance in the Christian faith.
The Meaning of the Colors of the Advent Candles
The use of colors in the Advent wreath is deeply symbolic and meaningful. Each candle has a specific color that represents different values, beliefs, and traditions. Understanding the meaning behind these colors can give us a glimpse into the historical and spiritual significance of the Advent season.
- Purple: The first candle, which is lit on the first Sunday of Advent, is usually purple. This color symbolizes penance, sacrifice, and preparation. It reminds us that we need to repent and turn away from sin in order to prepare our hearts for the coming of Christ. Furthermore, it represents the royalty of Christ and his sovereignty as King.
- Pink: On the third Sunday of Advent, we light the pink candle, which stands for joy. This color is associated with the joy of the coming of Jesus Christ, as well as the joy that we experience during this season of anticipation and hope. It is a reminder that despite the struggles and challenges we may face, there is always something to be joyful about.
- White: The center candle, which is usually white, is lit on Christmas Day. It represents the purity, innocence, and light of Christ. It is also a symbol of the resurrection and eternal life, reminding us that Christ is present among us always and that his love and grace give us hope and new life.
- Red: Some Advent wreaths have a fourth candle, which is red and is lit on the last Sunday of Advent or on Christmas Eve. This color represents the blood of Christ and the sacrifice he made for us on the cross. It also symbolizes love and passion, reminding us of the depth of God’s love for us and the lengths he went to save us.
By incorporating different colors into the Advent wreath, we are reminded of the various aspects of the Advent season – the need for repentance and preparation, the joy of anticipation, the purity and light of Christ, and the sacrifice and love that he embodied.
If you’re looking to deepen your appreciation of this season, consider incorporating these colors into your celebrations, whether through candles, decorations, or clothing. Meditating on the meaning behind them can help you connect more deeply with the spiritual significance of Advent.
May this Advent be a time of reflection, hope, and joy as we prepare our hearts to receive the gift of Christ.
| Candle Number | Color | Symbolism |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Purple | Penance, sacrifice, preparation, royalty of Christ |
| 2 | Purple | Penance, sacrifice, preparation, sovereignty of Christ |
| 3 | Pink | Joy of anticipation, rejoicing in Christ’s coming |
| 4 | Red (optional) | Blood of Christ, sacrifice, love |
Table: Different color symbolism of each candle in the Advent wreath.
The Symbolism of the First Candle, Representing Hope
During the season of Advent, we light four candles as we countdown to Christmas Day. Each candle represents a different aspect of our preparation for the coming of Christ. The first candle symbolizes hope.
Hope is not just a feeling of optimism or wishful thinking, but it is a confident expectation of good things to come. In these trying times, it is easy to feel despair and lose sight of hope, but the Advent season reminds us that there is always hope for a brighter future.
The first candle, also known as the “Prophecy Candle,” represents the hope that was revealed through the prophecies of the prophets in the Old Testament.
The Symbolic Meaning of the Number 4
- The number 4 is often symbolic of the physical world or the material universe. This is because our physical world is made up of four elements: earth, air, fire, and water.
- The number 4 is also significant in Christianity, representing the four Gospels, four cardinal virtues, and four corners of the cross.
- Furthermore, the four weeks of Advent represent the four thousand years between Adam and Eve and the birth of Christ. This time period is also known as the four “anticipatory millennia.”
The Significance of Hope in the Advent Season
Hope is an important theme during the Advent season because it reminds us that even in the midst of the darkness, there is always light to be found. The first candle, representing hope, reminds us to keep our faith and trust in God’s promises.
Amidst the chaos and challenges of 2020, the first candle’s message of hope is especially relevant. We may face uncertainty in the future, but we can hold fast to the hope that comes with the Christmas story.
The Advent Wreath and the First Candle
The Advent wreath, typically made of evergreen branches, holds four candles, one for each week leading up to Christmas. The first candle is traditionally purple or blue, the colors of royalty and penance.
| Candle Color | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Purple/Blue | Royalty and Penance |
| Purple/Blue | Preparation and Expectation |
| Pink/Rose | Joy |
| Purple/Blue | Love |
The first candle is also sometimes referred to as the “Prophet’s Candle,” as it symbolizes and honors the prophets who foretold the coming of Christ and the hope he brings.
In summary, the first candle of Advent, representing hope, reminds us to keep our faith and trust in God’s promises. The number 4 is significant in symbolizing the physical world and the four weeks of Advent. Hope is an important theme during the Advent season and is especially significant in today’s challenging times. The Advent wreath and the first candle hold significant symbolism, reminding us of the prophets who foretold the coming of Christ and the anticipation of his birth.
The symbolism of the second candle, representing peace
The second candle on the Advent wreath is lit to represent peace. This candle is often called the “Bethlehem candle,” as it represents the journey to Bethlehem made by Mary and Joseph in search of a peaceful place to give birth to the baby Jesus.
- Peace is a fundamental human need: In a world where we face conflicts, wars, and violence on a daily basis, peace is a basic human need. The second Advent candle serves as a reminder that we can find peace amidst chaos and that we must strive for it.
- The peace that Jesus brings: The birth of Jesus was a message of peace and hope for humanity. The second Advent candle reminds us that Jesus came to bring us peace and wipe away our tears.
- A time for reconciliation: The second Advent candle represents an opportunity to reconcile with others, forgive past mistakes, and heal strained relationships.
The second Advent candle also teaches us about the importance of cultivating inner peace. Peace starts from within and radiates outward to those around us. We must learn to be at peace with ourselves to find true happiness and spread that calmness and serenity to the people around us.
| Symbolism of the Second Candle | Represents |
|---|---|
| The Bethlehem candle | The journey to Bethlehem made by Mary and Joseph in search of a peaceful place to give birth to Jesus |
| Peace | A fundamental human need and the message of Jesus’ birth |
| Reconciliation | An opportunity to forgive past mistakes and heal strained relationships |
In conclusion, the second Advent candle represents peace and serves as a reminder of the need for peace in our lives and the world. It also encourages us to cultivate inner peace and use it as a means to spread positive vibes to the people around us.
The Symbolism of the Third Candle, Representing Joy
As the anticipation of Christmas grows with each passing day, the lighting of the Advent candles becomes more meaningful. While the first candle represents hope and the second symbolizes peace, the third candle is all about joy. Here’s what you need to know about the meaning behind the third candle of Advent:
- The color: The third candle is typically pink or rose in color. This is meant to be a reminder that we are getting close to the celebration of the birth of Jesus. The color is also associated with the joy and happiness that comes with the anticipation of the holiday season.
- The Old Testament prophecy: The third candle represents the joy that the Old Testament prophets felt when they foretold the coming of the messiah. This candle is a celebration of the joy that comes with the fulfillment of God’s promises.
- John the Baptist: The third candle can also symbolize John the Baptist and his joy in preparing the way for Jesus. John recognized Jesus as the Son of God and rejoiced in his coming.
The third candle is often called the “Shepherd’s candle,” and represents the joy that the shepherds experienced at the news of Jesus’ birth. This is a reminder that we too should be filled with joy and gladness at the news of his arrival. In many churches, the third candle is lit on Gaudete Sunday, which is the third Sunday of Advent. This is a time to remember that the birth of Jesus is a reason for great joy.
So as you light the third candle of Advent, take a moment to reflect on the joy that comes with this season. Let the light of the candle remind you of the joy that filled the hearts of the prophets, John the Baptist, the shepherds, and ultimately, ourselves, as we celebrate the birth of Jesus.
| Symbolism | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Color | Pink/Rose |
| Old Testament Prophecy | Joy of the fulfillment of God’s promises |
| John the Baptist | Joy in preparing the way for Jesus |
| Shepherd’s Candle | Joy at the news of Jesus’ birth |
May the joy of Advent fill your heart as we prepare to celebrate the birth of our savior.
The Symbolism of the Fourth Candle, Representing Love
Advent is a season of hope and joy, leading up to the celebration of Christmas. Each Sunday of Advent, a new candle is lit on the Advent wreath, representing different aspects of the season. The fourth candle on the Advent wreath represents love and is often referred to as the Angel’s candle or the Candle of Love.
- Love is the centerpiece of the Christmas story, as God sent his son Jesus into the world to show his love for humanity.
- The fourth candle represents the love of God, who sent his son to be born in a manger and eventually die on the cross for our sins.
- It also represents the love we have for one another, as we strive to show kindness, generosity, and compassion during this season and throughout the year.
The color of the fourth candle is traditionally white, symbolizing purity and the light of Christ shining into the world.
This candle is typically lit on the fourth Sunday of Advent, just a few days before Christmas. It is a reminder to us that the pure, selfless love exemplified by Jesus is the true meaning of Christmas.
| Week | Candle | Symbolism |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Hope | The hope of Christ’s coming to the world. |
| 2 | Peace | The peace that Christ brings to our hearts and the world. |
| 3 | Joy | The joy of Christmas and the salvation offered through Christ. |
| 4 | Love | The love of God and the love we have for one another. |
As we light the fourth candle of Advent and prepare for the celebration of Christmas, let us remember the true meaning of the season and the love that inspired it all.
The Role of the Christ Candle in the Advent Wreath
The Advent wreath, a Christian tradition that originated in Germany, is a wreath made out of evergreen branches with four candles, one for each week of Advent. Each candle is lit on each Sunday leading up to Christmas, with the fifth candle called the Christ candle lit on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day. The Christ candle is usually bigger and placed in the center of the wreath and is white to represent purity and the light of Christ.
The Symbolism of the Four Candles of Advent
- The first candle, which is purple, symbolizes hope.
- The second candle, also purple, symbolizes peace.
- The third candle, a pink one, symbolizes joy and is often called the “Shepherd’s candle.”
- The fourth candle, which is purple as well, represents love and is also called the “Angel’s candle.”
The Significance of the Christ Candle
The Christ candle represents the light that Christ brought into the world, and its placement in the center of the Advent wreath indicates its importance. It also signifies the completion of Advent and the beginning of Christmas and the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. The white color of the candle represents the purity and divinity of Jesus, and the light that the candle emits symbolizes the hope and joy that Christ brings to the world.
The Wreath’s Connection to the Church
The use of the Advent wreath is not exclusive to any denomination of Christianity and has become a popular fixture in many churches, especially during the Advent season. It is often used during services and processions, and the lighting of the candles is accompanied by prayers, songs, or readings from Scripture. The Advent wreath serves as a visual reminder of the reason for the season and helps to prepare the hearts and minds of the faithful for the coming celebration of Christmas.
| Candle | Color | Symbolism |
|---|---|---|
| First Candle | Purple | Hope |
| Second Candle | Purple | Peace |
| Third Candle | Pink | Joy |
| Fourth Candle | Purple | Love |
| Christ Candle | White | Light and Purity |
The Traditional Lighting Ceremony for the Advent Candles
The lighting of the Advent candles is a traditional Christian ceremony that signifies the coming of Christmas. The ceremony typically takes place on the four Sundays leading up to Christmas Day and is marked by the lighting of four candles representing hope, peace, joy, and love.
What Do the Four Candles of Advent Symbolize?
- Hope: The first candle, often called the prophecy candle, represents hope and the anticipation of the coming of Christ. It symbolizes the hope that Christ brings as a light shining in the darkness.
- Peace: The second candle represents peace, which is the message of Christ’s birth. It reminds us to take a moment during this busy season to reflect and find inner peace.
- Joy: The third candle represents joy, which is the result of Christ’s birth. It reminds us to rejoice in the blessings we have and to spread joy to others.
- Love: The fourth candle represents love, which is the message of Christ’s life. It symbolizes the love that God has for us and the love that we should have for others.
The Lighting Ceremony and Its Meaning
During the ceremony, the first candle is lit on the first Sunday of Advent, the second candle is lit on the second Sunday, and so on until all four candles are lit. The lighting of the candles symbolizes the spreading of the light of Christ throughout the world.
After the candles are lit, a prayer or a reading is often given, followed by a hymn or a song. Some families or churches also incorporate other traditions into the ceremony, such as the use of an Advent wreath or a Nativity scene.
The Advent Wreath
The Advent wreath is a circular wreath with four candles, one for each week of Advent. The wreath itself represents God’s unending love and the eternity of hope that He gives us. The four candles represent the hope, peace, joy, and love mentioned earlier. The fifth candle, often found in the center of the wreath, is called the Christ candle and is lit on Christmas Day.
| Week | Candle Color | Candle Symbolism |
|---|---|---|
| First Week | Purple | Hope |
| Second Week | Purple | Peace |
| Third Week | Pink | Joy |
| Fourth Week | Purple | Love |
The lighting of the candles on the Advent wreath is a beautiful way to prepare for the coming of Christ and to reflect on the hope, peace, joy, and love that He brings. It is a tradition that has been passed down for generations and remains an important part of the Christmas season for many people around the world.
How different denominations and cultures celebrate Advent
Advent is celebrated by different denominations and cultures around the world in unique ways. Churches and communities have developed their own customs and traditions as part of their Advent celebration. Here are some examples:
- Catholic: Advent wreaths, nativity plays, and the lighting of candles in church are common customs during Advent. The four candles of the Advent wreath symbolize hope, peace, joy, and love. The candle lit on the first Sunday of Advent represents hope, the second candle lit represents peace, the third candle lit represents joy, and the fourth candle lit represents love.
- Protestant: Many Protestant churches also use an Advent wreath as a symbol of the season. Some Protestant traditions use a Christ Candle in the center of the Advent wreath instead of four separate candles. The Christ Candle represents Jesus as the light of the world.
- Orthodox: The Orthodox Church celebrates Advent with a period of fasting and prayer. This is known as the Nativity Fast and lasts for 40 days from November 15th to December 24th.
- Hispanic: In many Hispanic cultures, the celebration of Advent is known as Las Posadas. This tradition involves reenacting Joseph and Mary’s search for a place to stay in Bethlehem. The Las Posadas celebration usually lasts for nine days, from December 16th to December 24th, and involves a procession with traditional songs and prayers.
These traditions and customs vary in how they celebrate Advent, but they all share the common themes of reflection, preparation, and anticipation as we await the birth of Jesus Christ.
| Denomination/Culture | Advent Customs |
|---|---|
| Catholic | Advent wreaths, nativity plays, and the lighting of candles |
| Protestant | Advent wreaths and Christ Candle |
| Orthodox | Nativity Fast |
| Hispanic | Las Posadas celebration |
As we celebrate Advent, let us remember the true reason for the season – the birth of Jesus Christ and the hope, peace, joy, and love that He brings to our lives.
What do the four candles of advent symbolize?
Q: What are the four candles of advent?
A: The four candles of advent are a tradition commonly used in Christian churches during the season of Advent, which is a time of preparation for the celebration of Christmas.
Q: What do the four candles represent?
A: The four candles typically represent hope, peace, joy, and love, each symbolizing an element of the Advent story and the Christian faith.
Q: What does the first candle symbolize?
A: The first candle, often called the “hope” candle, represents the prophetic hope of the coming of a savior, who will bring light into the world and save humanity from sin.
Q: What does the second candle symbolize?
A: The second candle, often called the “peace” candle, represents the peace that God promised to bring through Jesus Christ, who is seen as the Prince of Peace.
Q: What does the third candle symbolize?
A: The third candle, often called the “joy” candle, represents the joy that comes with the fulfillment of God’s promise and the coming of Christ.
Q: What does the fourth candle symbolize?
A: The fourth candle, often called the “love” candle, represents the love that God has for humanity, and the love that Christ showed by sacrificing himself for the sake of humanity.
Q: Why are the candles lit in a specific order?
A: The candles are often lit one at a time, in a specific order, to emphasize the progression of the Advent story from hope to peace, joy, and love.
Closing Thoughts
Thank you for taking the time to learn about the symbolism behind the four candles of advent. While this tradition is most commonly associated with Christianity, it is a beautiful reminder to people of all faiths to find hope, peace, joy, and love in their lives, especially during the holiday season. We hope you will visit us again soon!