Candles in the Bible: A Deep Dive into Biblical References and Symbolism
While the term 'candle' may not come to mind immediately when thinking about the Bible, it is mentioned in several verses. Let's explore these mentions and their significance.
Introduction to Candles in Scripture
Candles, as we understand them today, were not a common household item in the ancient world. However, they are mentioned in the Bible, primarily associated with light and symbolism. The King James Version (KJV) of the Bible translates the Hebrew term 'ner' as 'candle' in various passages.
Old Testament Context
In the Old Testament, several verses use the term 'candle' to denote various forms of lighting, often in the context of religious practices or divine guidance. For instance, in the Book of Job, verses such as Job 18:6 and Job 21:17 mention the 'candle' of the wicked being put out, emphasizing the transient nature of wickedness.
Further References in the Old Testament
Job 29:3: "When his candle shined upon my head, and by his light I walked through darkness." Psalms 18:28: "The Lord will light my candle: the Lord my God will illuminate my darkness." Proverbs 20:27: "A person's spirit can be compared to a burning candle; it reveals all the recesses of the inner self." Proverbs 24:20: "For the wicked man's end will find him as a burning candle that may be put out." Proverbs 31:18: "She sees that her trade is good, and her lamp does not go out at night." Jeremiah 25:10: "At that time I will scrutinize Jerusalem with a careful eye, and I will punish those who settle in complacency." Zephaniah 1:12: "On that day I will scrutinize Jerusalem with a torch, and punish those settled in complacency." Matthew 5:15: "Neither do men light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house." Mark 4:21: "And he said unto them, Is a candle brought to be put under a bushel, or under a bed? and not to be set on a stand?" Luke 8:16: "No man, when he hath lighted a lamp, covereth it with a vessel, or putteth it under a bed; but setteth it on a candlestick, that they which enter may see the light." Luke 11:33: "No man, when he hath lighted a lamp, putteth it in a hidden place, neither under a bushel, but on a candlestick, that they which come in may see the light." Luke 11:36: "If thy whole body be full of light, having no part dark, the whole shall be full of light, as when the bright shining of the sun doth shine." Luke 15:8: "What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he lose one, does not leave the ninety-nine in the open country, and go after the one that is lost, until he finds it?" Revelation 18:23: "And the light of a candle shall shine no more at all in thee, and the voice of the bridegroom and of the bride shall be heard no more at all in thee: for thy merchants were the great men of the earth for by thy sorceries were all nations deceived." Revelation 22:5: "And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever."Symbolism of Candles in the Bible
The repeated use of 'candle' in the Bible often symbolizes light, guidance, and divine presence. Just as a candle shines in the darkness, these verses highlight the source of true light - the light of God's word and love.
Conclusion
From the Old Testament to the New, the concept of a 'candle' in the Bible is rich with symbolism. These references emphasize the importance of light in both physical and spiritual contexts. Whether in the form of divine illumination or as a literal source of light, the 'candle' in the Bible serves as a powerful metaphor for the quest for knowledge, the guidance of truth, and the hope of eternal light.