You’ve probably seen them before—rows of small, flickering candles glowing softly in churches, casting warm light in quiet corners. These aren’t just decorative accents. They’re votive candles, tiny flames with deep meaning.
For centuries, people have used votive candles as symbols of hope, gratitude, and reflection. Whether in religious ceremonies or as part of home décor, these candles continue to play a significant role in many traditions. But what exactly is a votive candle, and why does it hold such importance? Let’s explore its history, purpose, and how to use it properly.
What is a Votive Candle?
A votive candle is a small, self-contained wax candle, typically made of beeswax or soy wax, designed to burn inside a glass votive candle holder. Unlike pillar or taper candles, votives are short and meant to melt completely as they burn, ensuring a steady, contained glow.
Why Are Votive Candles Special?
Votive candles are more than just small wax candles. They serve as a way to express prayers, wishes, or personal intentions. Many believe that lighting a votive candle is like sending a silent message to the universe—whether for guidance, gratitude, or remembrance.
Common Places You’ll Find Votive Candles
• Churches & Religious Sites – Used in prayer rituals and ceremonies.
• Home Décor – Adds a cozy ambiance to living spaces.
• Spas & Meditation Spaces – Helps create a calming atmosphere.
📍 Picture this: You walk into a peaceful chapel. Dozens of votive candles flicker in glass holders near an altar, each one representing someone’s heartfelt wish—a prayer for healing, a tribute to a loved one, or a silent moment of gratitude.
A Brief History of Votive Candles
The tradition of votive candles goes back thousands of years.
• Ancient Rome: Small oil lamps (called lucernae) were lit at shrines to honor gods.
• Early Christianity (3rd Century AD): Candles replaced oil lamps as symbols of faith. Beeswax votive candles became common due to their association with purity.
• Middle Ages: Pilgrims traveling to holy sites lit votive candles as physical proof of their prayers. Wealthy patrons often donated expensive candle holders to churches.
Why Were Most Votive Candles White?
Historically, churches preferred white candles because they symbolized spiritual clarity and humility. Since early votives were made from natural beeswax, they ranged in color from pale yellow to ivory.
How Long Do Votive Candles Burn?
Why You Need Special Votive Candle Holders
Votive candles aren’t like tea lights or pillar candles—they’re designed to melt completely as they burn. Without a holder, you’d end up with a pool of hot wax on your table (or worse, a fire hazard). Here’s why the right holder matters:
Key Reasons to Use Votive Holders
Safety First:
Votives liquefy entirely, so a snug holder contains the melted wax and prevents spills.
Protects surfaces from heat damage (no scorched tabletops!).
Better Burn:
Holders stabilize the candle, keeping the flame upright for even burning.
Blocks drafts that could cause uneven melting or smoke.
Aesthetic Boost:
Enhances the candle’s glow—like putting a diamond in the right setting.
How to Safely Use and Extend the Life of Your Votive Candles
Votive candles are low-maintenance, but following a few simple steps can improve their performance.
Step 1: The First Burn is Crucial
• 🔥 Let the candle burn for at least 1–2 hours during the first use.
• ✅ This creates a full melt pool and prevents tunneling (where wax burns unevenly, leaving a deep hole in the center).
Step 2: Trim the Wick Regularly
• ✂️ Always trim the wick to ¼ inch (0.5 cm) before lighting.
• 🚫 Long wicks cause excessive soot, flickering, and uneven burning.
Step 3: Place Candles in a Draft-Free Area
• 🌬️ Avoid placing votives near ceiling fans, open windows, or air vents.
• ✅ To test for drafts, hold a lit incense stick nearby. If the smoke swirls unpredictably, move the candle to a more sheltered location.
Quick FAQs About Votive Candles
✔️ Votive candles are used for prayers, meditation, and home decoration.
✔️ Depending on the wax type, votive candles burn between 10 and 20 hours.
✔️ Yes! Just clean out leftover wax with warm water and soap before reusing.
✔️ Votive candles are taller and require a separate holder. Tealights are shorter and come in built-in metal or plastic cups.
Final Thoughts Votive candles may be small, but they hold centuries of tradition and meaning. Whether you’re lighting one in a church for a prayer, using them for home décor, or enjoying their soft glow during meditation, these candles create an atmosphere of peace and intention.
By choosing high-quality votive candles and the right votive candle holders, you can enjoy their warm, flickering light safely and beautifully.
Ready to bring the soft glow of votive candles into your space? Find the best votive candle holders and candles to match your style!