Definition:
An “Advent candelabra,” or “Advent wreath” is a traditional Christian symbol used during the season of Advent to prepare for the coming of Christ at Christmas.
Etymology:
The word “Advent” comes from the Latin “adventus,” meaning “coming” or “arrival,” referring to the coming of Christ. “Candelabra” is derived from the Latin word “candelabrum,” meaning “candle holder.”
Description:
The tradition of the Advent Wreath dates back to the 16th century in Germany. It was initially used in homes and later adopted by churches. The practice spread to other Christian denominations and became a widespread symbol of the Advent season.
It typically consists of a circular wreath made of evergreen branches and four candles, which are lit sequentially each Sunday of Advent.
There are various forms of Advent candle holders, including traditional four-armed wreaths and more modern electric versions, such as the electric seven-armed Advent candle holder with 7 lights. Which is a popular Christmas decoration, especially in Scandinavian countries. These are often seen in windows throughout the Advent season, as they are placed on windowsills.
Symbolism:
There are several different versions of what each candle symbolizes in the four-armed Advent wreath.
Advent verses are popular in Norway and are repeated in elementary schools every year all over the country.
This text is directly translated from the very popular Norwegian text “Advent vers,” meaning “Advent Verses”:
First Verse:
Light a candle tonight, we light it for joy.
It stands and shines for itself and for those who are present.
Light a candle tonight, we light it for joy.
Second Verse:
Light two candles tonight, two candles for hope and joy.
They stand and shine for themselves and for those who are present.
Light two candles tonight, two candles for hope and joy.
Third Verse:
Light three candles tonight, for longing, hope, and joy.
They stand and shine for themselves and for those who are present.
Light three candles tonight for longing, hope, and joy.
Fourth Verse:
Light four candles tonight and let them burn down.
For longing, joy, hope, and peace, but most of all for peace.
On this little earth, where people live.
This lyrics is directly translated from the Norwegian song “Tenn lys,” meaning “Light a Candle”:
First Verse:
Light a candle. A candle shall burn for this little earth.
The bright star in the sky, where we and all live.
May everyone share hope so good things can happen.
May earth and heaven meet. A candle is lit for that.
Second Verse:
Light a candle. Two candles shall shine for love and faith,
for those who show care and always build bridges.
May prisoners gain their freedom and refugees a home.
Light a candle for those who cry and those who comfort them.
Third Verse:
Light a candle. Three candles shall flame for all who must fight.
For justice and for freedom. They need our help.
May no one lose courage before all people are one.
Light a candle for those who fight for freedom and for justice.
Fourth Verse:
Light a candle. Now all four candles shine for him
who loves all that lives, every lion and every lamb.
Light a candle for the King of Heaven who watched over the flock.
Now earth and heaven meet in the child laid in straw.
This propaganda song is trying to teach the children of Norway that they are chosen by God, and that children from poor countries are not, and that they need help from Norwegians to find the light of Christ, so we can all become one.