The Wonderful, Versatile Votive Candle
A votive candle is a common fixture in many homes nowadays, be it in the bathroom, living room, or on the dining room table in place of a taper candle. Like small pillars, votive candles have the diameter of (roughly) a silver dollar, and they taper slightly upwards – that is, the top of the candle is slightly wider than the bottom. A votive candle is long lasting, and can fit into many places that a pillar can’t. But though many of us use votive candles, their original use is all but forgotten except, possibly, among Roman Catholics!
The votive candle is the type of candle that was traditionally used in many churches – and still is, today. These were not altar candles, though – altar candles tend to be big, wide pillar candles. Votive candles, on the other hand, would be placed in groups around the statues of saints at the back of the church. The votives would be left for parishoners to light, usually while saying a prayer. The original idea was to make a dedication or promise while lighting the votive candle – in fact, the word ‘votive’ comes from the same origin as ‘vow’.
Today, even though we are accustomed to using the votive candle in a more secular setting, some of that original association remains at the back of our minds. That’s why a votive is the candle we are more likely to reach for while meditating, for example. There’s a gentle, reflective quality to this little candle, and bringing it into the home helps you create a sacred environment wherever you happen to be.