Candles are often used for ambiance or as part of religious rituals, but is there anything in the Bible that speaks about their use? While Scripture doesn’t focus directly on candles, there are symbols and imagery involving light that carry deep spiritual meaning. Let’s explore how light and candles can connect to biblical themes.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Making Out
What Does The Bible Say About Candles
Matthew 5:14-16
“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of being a light in the world. As Christians, we are called to illuminate the darkness around us through our words and actions. Just as a candle lights up a room, our lives should radiate the love and truth of God. By shining our light, we can inspire others and bring glory to God.
Psalms 119:105
“Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.”
God’s Word serves as a guiding light in our lives. It provides direction, wisdom, and understanding. Just as a candle illuminates our path in the darkness, the Bible shines a light on the journey of our lives. It reveals God’s will and helps us make decisions that align with His teachings.
Proverbs 20:27
“The spirit of man is the lamp of the LORD, searching all his innermost parts.”
This verse highlights the role of the Holy Spirit in our lives. The Spirit of God acts as a lamp, bringing illumination and insight into the deepest parts of our being. Through the Holy Spirit, God reveals His truth, convicts us of sin, and guides us towards righteousness.
John 8:12
“When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.'”
Jesus is described as the ultimate source of light. By following Him, we are freed from the darkness of sin and receive the light of life. Jesus illuminates our path, provides hope, and leads us towards eternal salvation.
2 Corinthians 4:6
“For God, who said, ‘Let light shine out of darkness,’ made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of God’s glory displayed in the face of Christ.”
Through Christ, God has brought light into our lives. His light shines in our hearts, removing the veil of ignorance and revealing the glory of God. This verse emphasizes the transformative power of God’s light and the knowledge of His truth.
Ephesians 5:8
“For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light.”
This verse reminds us that as believers, we have been made new in Christ. We have been delivered from the darkness of sin and now belong to the light. Therefore, we are called to live in a way that reflects the light of God, walking in righteousness and spreading His love to others.
Philippians 2:15
“so that you may become blameless and pure, ‘children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.’ Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky.”
As children of God, we are called to live lives that stand out in a world filled with darkness and corruption. By shining our light, we can make a positive impact on those around us. Our actions and attitudes should reflect the character of Christ, drawing others to the beauty of His truth.
James 1:17
“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.”
God is described as the Father of heavenly lights, the source of all good things. Just as candles bring warmth and light, God’s gifts in our lives are meant to bring joy and blessings. We are reminded to be grateful for His provision and to use the gifts He has given us to bless others.
Psalm 27:1
“The LORD is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid?”
God’s presence in our lives dispels the darkness and fear. When we have the Lord as our light and salvation, we can confidently face any challenge or adversity. This verse reminds us that with God as our source of light, we have nothing to fear.
1 John 1:7
“But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.”
Walking in the light of God’s truth brings fellowship and unity among believers. By embracing the light of Christ, we experience forgiveness and cleansing from our sins. This verse encourages us to live in a way that aligns with God’s standards, fostering harmonious relationships with fellow believers.
Psalm 119:130
“The unfolding of your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple.”
God’s Word not only brings light but also provides clarity and wisdom to those who earnestly seek it. Like a candle illuminating a dark room, the Scriptures unlock deep truths and help us comprehend God’s purposes. This verse reminds us of the transformative power of studying and meditating on God’s Word.
John 3:19-21
“This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but people loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. Everyone who does evil hates the light and will not come into the light for fear that their deeds will be exposed. But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what they have done has been done in the sight of God.”
This passage explores the contrast between light and darkness, symbolizing the battle between good and evil. Those who choose evil shun the light, preferring to remain in darkness to conceal their sinful deeds. However, followers of Christ embrace the truth, living in the light, and allowing their actions to be a testament to God’s presence in their lives.
Psalms 18:28
“You, Lord, keep my lamp burning; my God turns my darkness into light.”
God’s presence in our lives has the power to transform our darkest moments into moments of light and hope. He sustains us and guides us through difficult times, ensuring that our light never goes out. This verse reminds us of God’s faithfulness and His ability to bring forth beauty from even the most challenging situations.
Isaiah 60:1
“Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD rises upon you.”
This verse speaks of a future time when God’s glory will shine upon His people. It encourages believers to rise up and shine, for they carry the light of God within them. It reminds us of the hope and joy that awaits us in the presence of the Lord.
Psalm 119:140
“Your promises have been thoroughly tested, and your servant loves them.”
God’s promises are compared to a tested and reliable source of light. Just as candles provide steady illumination, God’s promises bring comfort and assurance to those who trust in Him. This verse expresses the love and loyalty we have for God’s promises, knowing that they are trustworthy and true.
1 Peter 2:9
“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.”
As believers, we are set apart by God and given the privilege of declaring His praises. We have been rescued from the darkness of sin and brought into the marvelous light of God’s love and grace. This verse reminds us of our unique identity and purpose as children of God.
Matthew 5:15
“Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.”
Jesus uses the analogy of a lamp to teach the importance of sharing the light of God with others. Just as a candle is meant to be seen, our faith should be on display for all to see. This verse encourages us to live our lives in a way that points others to the source of our light, Jesus Christ.
Luke 11:33
“No one lights a lamp and puts it in a place where it will be hidden, or under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, so that those who come in may see the light.”
Similar to Matthew 5:15, this verse emphasizes the importance of shining our light for all to see. Our faith should not be kept hidden but rather be shared openly. By doing so, we have the opportunity to impact and influence those who come into contact with the light of Christ within us.
Psalm 119:105
“Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.”
This verse emphasizes the role of God’s Word as a guiding light in our lives. Like a candle illuminating the way in a dark room, the Scriptures provide direction, wisdom, and comfort. By meditating on and following God’s Word, we can navigate through life with clarity and purpose.
John 1:5
“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”
This verse speaks of the eternal light of Christ, which remains unconquered by darkness. No matter how bleak or hopeless our circumstances may seem, the light of Christ will always prevail. This verse reminds us of the power and victory we have in Jesus, who triumphs over all darkness and evil.
Psalm 36:9
“For with you is the fountain of life; in your light, we see light.”
God is described as the source of life and light. Through Him, we gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the world around us. Just as candlelight enhances our perception, God’s light reveals truths, giving us greater insight into Himself and His plans for our lives.
John 12:46
“I have come into the world as a light so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness.”
Jesus declares that His purpose in coming to earth was to bring light to those living in darkness. By accepting Him as our Savior, we are liberated from the bondage of sin and ignorance. This verse offers hope and encouragement to all who seek the light of Christ.
Psalm 43:3
“Send me your light and your faithful care, let them lead me; let them bring me to your holy mountain, to the place where you dwell.”
This verse expresses a heartfelt desire for God’s light and guidance. It acknowledges our dependence on God’s faithful care and asks Him to lead us to His presence. Just as a candle illuminates a path, we seek God’s light to direct our steps and bring us closer to Him.
Isaiah 9:2
“The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned.”
This verse prophesies the coming of Jesus, who would be a great light in the midst of a world shrouded in darkness. It speaks of hope and restoration, as Jesus brings light and salvation to those who are lost and in despair. This verse reminds us of the transformative power of encountering the light of Christ.
Psalm 119:130
“The unfolding of your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple.”
God’s Word is described as a source of light and understanding. Like a candle illuminates a dark room, the Scriptures provide illumination and insight to those who seek it. This verse encourages us to delve into the riches of God’s Word, knowing that it brings clarity and wisdom.