What Do the Candles on the Advent Wreath Symbolize?

The meaning of Advent wreath calendars are the same throughout Christianity.

Advent wreaths are used by millions of Christians worldwide to mark the passing of the season of Advent and to symbolize the many ideas and hopes present in the celebration of the birth of Christ. Advent wreaths vary depending on Christian denomination, but the symbolism and intent of the candles on the Advent wreath remain the same.

History

The actual origin of Advent wreaths is not entirely certain, but it is believed that they probably evolved from the pagan tradition of using evergreens with candles in them in the dark winter days to signify the coming of spring and its light and warmth. In time, the light of the candles on the Advent wreath came to symbolize the hope inherent in the coming of Christ.

Time Frame

Advent wreaths mark the passage of Advent, which is comprised of the four weeks before Christmas. There are four candles on Advent wreaths, and they symbolize each of these four weeks and the 4,000 years between Adam and Eve and the birth of Christ.

Features

Traditionally, three of the candles on Advent wreaths are purple and one is pink. Purple is the customary penitent color of Advent, and pink is the rejoicing color of the third Sunday of Advent when the season is halfway over.

Significance

The lighting of a new candle on the Advent wreaths each week symbolizes the anticipation of Christians awaiting Christ's birth and the salvation he brings to believers. Light stands for hope.

Considerations

The first purple candle is lit on the first Sunday of Advent, followed by the second purple candle on the second Sunday of Advent, the pink candle on the third Sunday of Advent (also known as Gaudete Sunday) and the third purple candle on the last Sunday of Advent. In modern times, white candles replace the pink and purple candles in Advent wreaths beginning on Christmas Eve and lasting throughout the Christmas season.