The History and Meaning of Beeswax Candles: From Ancient Rituals to Modern Homes
Beeswax candles have lit the way through human history — literally. From ancient temples to medieval cathedrals and into cozy homes today, beeswax has been a source of warmth, symbolism, and craftsmanship. There’s something timeless about lighting a beeswax candle: it connects us to centuries of tradition.
Ancient Origins of Beeswax Candles
The use of beeswax for light goes back thousands of years. Ancient Egyptians were among the first to use beeswax in ceremonial and practical ways. While they may not have created candles exactly like the ones we use today, they used wax-based torches and lamps that predate modern candle forms.
The Romans were early adopters of true candles, and it’s believed they may have used beeswax as well — particularly among wealthier classes who could afford it. These early candles were prized for their steady, clean-burning flames, which made them ideal for rituals and religious ceremonies.
Sacred Symbolism in Medieval Times
By the Middle Ages, beeswax candles had become deeply symbolic, especially in Christian churches. They were considered the "pure" option, in contrast to tallow candles made from animal fat, which smelled unpleasant and smoked heavily. Churches insisted on beeswax candles during services, as they were thought to represent purity and divine light.
In fact, the Catholic Church required that altar candles be made from 100% beeswax — a rule that still holds in many traditional settings. The golden glow of beeswax helped set a reverent tone in sacred spaces.
Luxury, Craft, and Clean Light
While beeswax candles were the gold standard, they were expensive and labor-intensive to produce. It took the work of thousands of bees to create enough wax for a single candle, which meant that beeswax candles were largely reserved for the church, royalty, and the wealthy.
Meanwhile, everyday folks used tallow candles, which were more affordable but far less pleasant. The distinction between beeswax and tallow candles became one of class and quality.
Modern Nostalgia: Keeping the Tradition Alive
Today, beeswax candles are making a strong comeback — not just for their beautiful, clean burn and natural scent, but for the history they carry.
We’re proud to have customers and friends who celebrate that history, like Jas Townsend, who runs the YouTube channel Townsends. His videos explore 18th-century life, cooking, and craftsmanship — and our candles have even made an appearance in his historical demonstrations. If you love old-world skills and the charm of a simpler time, his channel is well worth a visit.
Why It Still Matters
Choosing a beeswax candle isn’t just about scent or style. It’s about connecting with something much older than ourselves — a tradition that spans continents and cultures. Whether you’re lighting one for a quiet evening or a spiritual moment, you’re carrying on a legacy that has stood the test of time.
At Beelite Candles, we’re honored to keep that tradition going with our hand-poured, 100% pure beeswax candles — just as it’s been done for generations.
References
- National Candle Association – History of Candles
- Smith College Museum – Ancient Candle Use
- Catholic Encyclopedia – Candles
- Bee Culture once had a great article titled “Beeswax: The Original Candle Wax,” but it seems the page is no longer available.
