The Symbolism of Purple Advent Candles: Looking Forward to the Saviors Arrival

Introduction

Advent, a time of anticipation and preparation in the Christian liturgical calendar, is perhaps most notable for its use of candles. Among these symbols, the purple Advent candles carry deep meanings that reflect both joy and sorrow. This article explores the significance of these candles and the color purple, providing insights into their roles during the Advent and Lent seasons.

Why are Advent Candles Purple?

The color purple is prominently displayed during the Advent and Lent seasons. Historically, this color symbolized royalty and solemnity, making it a fitting choice for these periods of reflection and preparation. In the Bible, purple is a color associated with kingship, particularly with the House of David, which historically was a royal lineage.

Historical Significance

The production of purple dye was notoriously difficult and expensive. The carmine-colored dye, known as Tyrian purple or royal purple, was created from the secretions of certain marine snails, not squids as previously mentioned. This dye was cherished by ancient emperors and nobility due to its rarity and cost, symbolizing the highest form of royalty.

Religious Context

During the early days, the color purple was also significant in several religious contexts. For instance, in the Roman Empire, purple was a symbol of imperial authority. When Jesus was mocked by Roman soldiers and given a purple robe, it symbolized his persona as a king, albeit a king condemned to death. Thus, the color purple carries a somber yet noble significance, reflecting both the nobility of Jesus and the suffering he endured.

Liturgical Use of Color

Purple is a liturgical color in the Christian Church, used during times of penance, such as Advent and Lent. These periods are times of spiritual preparation, reflection, and repentance. The purple candles during Advent represent not only the anticipation of the coming of the Savior but also the complex emotions of joy and sorrow. The color signifies a time of prayer, penance, and sacrifice.

The Four Candles of Advent

During the Advent season, four candles are traditionally used, each representing a week of anticipation. Three of these candles are purple, symbolizing the solemnity of the preparation period. The fourth candle, known as the Shepherds’ Candle, is pink or rose, representing joy and gladness, as the Shepherds were among the first to be informed of Jesus’ birth.

Conclusion

The purple Advent candles and the broader use of purple in religious contexts reflect deep historical and spiritual meanings. From the difficult process of creating purple dye in ancient times to its symbolic use in religious rituals, the color purple holds a unique and reverent place in Christian traditions. It embodies not only the anticipation of joy but also the acknowledgment of the path of suffering that led to that joy, as embodied by the life and death of Jesus Christ.