Votive Candles

The word “votive” comes from the Latin word for promise. Votive candles have long been used to seal a vow, or to signify a willingness to keep a promise. In ancient times, votive candles also became associated with sacrifice. Each candle disappeared as it burned; the candle was sacrificed to the flame.

Once used in religious ceremonies, votive candles now serve as a source of sort light. By lengthening the burning time of the votive candle, the user of the candle enjoys a longer period of soft light. Placement of a votive candle in a candle holder pools the candle wax. That pooling of the wax manages to prolong the candle’s burn time.

Votive candles have a more effervescent fragrance than either potpourri or incense. That fact has caused votive candles to become an important part of many aromatherapy treatments. The small votive candles emit an important healing fragrance.

Because a single votive candle gives off only a very limited amount of light, votive candles are most effective when they are used in groups. The grouping of votive candles provides a way for the candle user to create a pattern or sign, relying on the candles’ soft light to highlight the desired symbol.

Votive candles have also been used in luminarias. A single luminaria is a bag with sand in the bottom. The votive candle is placed in the sand and lit. The candlelight then shines through the sides of the bag. In Mexico and in the state of New Mexico, luminarias are popular Christmas decorations.

The owner of a hanging lantern has reason to use votive candles. Each small votive candle fits perfectly into most hanging lanterns. Thus the lantern owner does not need to search for the partly used taper candle that has burned to just the right height.

In June of 2005, the U.S. Consumer Safety Commission issued a warning about a particular group of votive candles. They were candles imported to the U.S from China. Each votive candle rested in a angel-shaped stand.

The Commission had found that the wax in those candles caused them to be a potential danger. The melting wax could easily catch fire, and create a large flame. That flame could then ignite any nearby objects.

The Commission did not implicate all votive candles, just that one group of imported candles. Those who appreciate the candles’ soft light and strong fragrance should continue to enjoy the many available votive candles.