Lighting candles is part of the tradition of the Church. However, have we ever wondered what is the reason behind this ‘custom’ ? Is there any symbolism? The Fathers of the Church have taken care to explain this part of Christian worship as well.
Specifically, Saint Nikodemos the Hagiorite, interpreting the troparion of the fifth ode of the Paschal Canon:
”Let us with lighted torches draw near to Christ, who come forth from the tomb as from a bridal chamber, and let us celebrate with the festive ranks of angels God’s saving Pascha.”
And focusing on the word ‘lamp-bearers’ used by Saint John of Damascus (the author of the canon), he analyzes in a footnote (Eortodromion, p. 433) the 6 reasons why Christians light candles:
- To glorify God, who is “the true Light, which enlightens and sanctifies every person who comes into the world.”
- To dispel the darkness of night and provide comfort, as Saint Gregory the Theologian mentions in his Discourse on Pascha.
- As a sign of joy and happiness.
- To honor the martyrs and the saints.
- Candles symbolize the light of our good deeds, as Christ said, ” Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven” (Matthew 5:16).
- Candles are lit as an offering to God for the forgiveness of sins, both of the living and the departed.
Thus, Saint Nikodemos clarifies that lighting candles is not a meaningless custom of Christians. On the contrary, it is an important offering to God, intimately connected with the mystical life of the Church, which should be consciously undertaken by the faithful.