We can see that there are types of tattoos that are more common than the others. Candle tattoo is not a very popular choice and yet they are gorgeous and have many profound meanings. This type of tattoo is a symbol of light that illuminates our paths in dark roads and dramatic situations or life events. So, if you are looking for an original way to represent some of the most critical moments in your life, you may have found the precisely right symbol. In this article, we will tell you all about the possible interpretations of candle tattoos. And as always – we have gathered a spectacular collection of ideas. So, scroll down if you’re here just for them.
One of the oldest-known source of light
A light was significant for the early people. In the first days of a human, it was hard to maintain it, so many cultures consider fire and light of a candle sacred things. We know that many pagan cults used torches during their rites and sacrifices. The ancient people used to worship their gods with lighted candles in their temples.
Some researchers believe that the use of candles in modern religions such as Christianity and Islam came from the pagan ceremonies. Meanwhile, others argue, that for example, Christians took the use of candles from the Jews. In any way, we know that people adapted many things from the early cults to make the transition from one religion to another as smooth as possible.
But, the light of the candle is an essential detail in Christianity. For the first Christians that had to hide in the catacombs to stay alive, candles were the only source of light in those dark tunnels. Imagine, how in the dark, wet catacomb the only source and hope of God is this tiny light of the candle. Later, when Christianity spread across Europe, Catholics continued using candles in their masses. We can see they built the churches in a way that would mimic the feel of the catacombs. Catholics built their temples and churches in a way to prevent the light from the outside. Later on, candles became a crucial part of Christianity and many other religions.
Candle tattoo as a symbol of faith
It’s not a secret that many people link candle tattoos to the Christian religion. And if you’re one of them – you are right. During The Holy Week, Christians place fifteen candles on the podium. These candles represent twelve apostles and the two Marias. The center candle is for the Virgin Mary, who never lost her faith in the resurrection of her Son, so the light of this candle never goes out.
But, the most significant meaning of the candle in Christianity is the light of Christ. A candle lights up the dark, so as the Christian should live differently in this dark, cruel world. In Biblical terms, the fire of the candle also symbolizes the Holy Spirit, and the reflecting light is Jesus. Some people also believe that the wax of the candle represents the body of Christ. A red candle usually signifies the blood of Christ, and the melting wax is the symbol of his body.
For meditating Christians, a candle represents the Trinity. Wax is God, the flame is the Holy Spirit, and light’s reflection is Jesus Christ. A lot of Christians use candles during their prayers or meditations. It helps them to calm down and to speak with God.
Candles in today’s modern world
Since the ancient civilizations, such as the Roman Empire, people were using candles as the primary source of light. They were on the tables, in niches in the walls and so on. During those times, a candle wasn’t a thing that you could easily buy in your local store. It was a symbol of nobility, and only the richest could afford it.
Today, however, we no longer use candles to light up our homes. They became an element of decoration. Also we use scented candles to make our homes smell better. But, as we never know how our mother nature will decide to behave, many people store candles in their homes if the electricity would disappear.
Also, as we have already mentioned, candles are a crucial detail in many religions. They are symbols of Holy, Divine light. Having this in mind, many people get candle tattoos to represent the eternal presence. It is a perfect way to pay tribute to a person or a memory that marked a critical stage in our lives.
The different meanings of candle tattoo
Probably the most common symbol of a candle tattoo is hope — a light that guides a person throughout life. It reminds us of how transience our life is. In today’s world, we only lit candles when there is a power outage because they never fail to provide us with the light, they are a symbol of guidance in our lives.
Another meaning of candle tattoos is hope. No matter how wrong the things are for you, the light of the candle will always remind you that at the end of the tunnel, there is a light and hope. It could also help you remember to stay positive in any situation.
Candle tattoos can also be a great way to mark an important event in your life. The burning flame will stay lit forever, so it will remind you of something that you don’t want to forget. In this case, it is always better that the things you don’t want to forget would be positive. Otherwise, you will feel sad every time you’ll look at your tattoo.
On the contrary, we light candles for those who passed away. So, candle tattoos are also a representation of our family members and closest friends that are gone. If you feel strong enough and you have gone through depression, a candle could be a beautiful way to remember a person that you loved. However, you should never force yourself into getting such a tattoo. It should come out of you naturally.
Candle tattoo ideas
Well, we have talked a lot about the meaning of candles and their interpretations. And now it is time for you to decide what it will mean to you. Remember, your tattoo doesn’t have to have any meaning at all or could have an entirely different meaning to the ones we’ve just described. Take your time and scroll down to see our collection of candle tattoos. We hope you’ll find a perfect idea!
