Candles and history are connected via multiple sources. Candles formed a part of many ancient palaces and forts because of the level of convenience that they provided. Candles are often called as ‘carriers of fire' in many civilizations. Candles have a spiritual existence. As fire is respected, candles are lighted near portraits of god and deceased people. Read on to know candles in detail.
What is a Candle?
With respect to definition, a candle is a piece of solid wax with an inbuilt (embedded) wick or thread. It provides light to a small area just like an electric bulb does. Candles are normally made from paraffin, beeswax, soy, plant waxes, tallow and some combinations of paraffin and plastic.
Candles can be placed directly on a surface or can be put in a candle holder for convenience. A lighted candle (the wick is lighted) works until the entire piece of wax melts and is not able to hold the wick in vertical position.
Candles and Style
Candles come in different shapes, sizes and scents. Candles are showcased at simple shrines to homes of celebrities. Candles today are often used as a decorative item irrespective of a candle being lighted or not (even unused candles go with many themes and decorations). Many creative ideas have been incorporated to use a candle in a way wherein it emits a statement of class.
Candles Used with Other Accessories
Candles are often clubbed with other accessories to give them a multipurpose look. Candle holders and candle warmers are examples of blending a candle with some other accessory to influence its functioning and as a part of decoration. Candles can be manufactured to emit different types of scents in your homes (done via candle warmers).
Uses of Candles
• Providing light is the first and foremost usage of any type of candle.
• Used to release scents to fight common odors present in a normal household.
• Used as a decorative item in houses, offices, film sets and other areas.
• Used as a display of respect and are placed near portraits of important people/deities.
• Used often as Christmas and other festival ornaments.
Lastly, candles can be used for sending secret messages, wherein if you write on a paper using a wax candle, it can be read if the paper is placed near fire or light.
Significance of Candles in Our Lives