The Fascinating History of Candles: From Ancient Traditions to Modern Living

September 15, 2025

By Diva Life Staff

For thousands of years, candles have lit homes, guided travelers, and carried cultural meaning across civilizations. Today, candles are celebrated as a blend of tradition, artistry, and sustainability—but their history is as rich and fascinating as the warm glow they cast.

The Ancient Origins of Candles

The earliest candles are believed to date back over 5,000 years. Ancient Egyptians used rushlights—torches made by soaking reeds in melted animal fat. Similarly, the Romans are credited with developing the first wick candles, crafted from tallow (animal fat) and used to light homes, temples, and festivities.

One of the earliest use of candles can be traced back to the Fourth Dynasty (ca. 2575-2130 BCE) of ancient Egypt. For example, the wall painting found in tomb of Pharaoh Amenemhat I shows a large candle being carried on a boat, hinting at a possibility of its use in rituals involving the pharaoh's coffin (Credit: Hellenic Museum)

Fun Fact: The Chinese made candles from whale fat as early as 200 BC, while in India, candles were created from boiling cinnamon, offering a natural fragrance centuries before modern scented candles.

Candles in Cultural and Religious Traditions

Candles have held deep symbolic value across civilizations:

• Christianity: Candles symbolize hope and divine presence in ceremonies.

• Judaism: The menorah, lit during Hanukkah, is an iconic example.

• Hinduism: Diwali candles and diyas symbolize the triumph of light over darkness.

• Buddhism: Candles are offered alongside incense to honor the teachings of Buddha.

It is a custom for Hindus to light a oil candle on Diwali.

Evolution of Candle Making

By the Middle Ages, candle-making became a respected craft. Chandlers (candle makers) set up workshops, selling candles for households, markets, and festivals.

In the 18th and 19th centuries, innovations like spermaceti wax (from sperm whales) and later paraffin wax (a byproduct of petroleum) made candles more affordable and accessible. Eventually, with the advent of electricity in the late 19th century, candles shifted from a necessity to a symbol of warmth, ambiance, and ritual.

Modern Candles: From Utility to Lifestyles

Today, candles are celebrated for ambiance, relaxation, and décor. Soy wax candles, introduced in the 1990s, offer a renewable and cleaner-burning alternative, blending historical tradition with sustainable living.

Diva Life's Amber & Musk is an epitome of modern home aesthetics that demand eco-friendly choices

From ancient reed torches to modern eco-friendly soy candles, the story of candles is a journey through history, culture, and human creativity. Every flame tells a story, connecting the past with the present.

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