Ancient Greece: The Greeks used candles as offerings to the gods, particularly Artemis, the goddess of the moon. They would place lit candles on round cakes, symbolizing the moon’s glow, and believed that the smoke carried their prayers to the heavens.
German “Kinderfest”: In 18th-century Germany, the “Kinderfest” (children’s birthday celebration) involved a cake with a single candle representing the “light of life”. This candle would burn all day, and the child would blow it out at the end of the day, making a wish in the process.
The “Wish”: The act of making a wish and blowing out candles is believed to be connected to the ancient Greek belief that smoke carries prayers to the divine. The Germans added the element of making a wish and blowing out the candles in one breath, believing it would come true if kept secret.
Symbolism:
Light of life: The candles symbolize the person’s life and the hope for another year.
Sending prayers/wishes: The smoke is believed to carry hopes and prayers to a higher power.
Ward off evil spirits: In ancient times, the light and smoke of candles were thought to ward off evil spirits.
Modern tradition: Over time, the German “Kinderfest” tradition evolved into the practice of placing one candle for each year of age on the cake, often with an extra one for good luck or “one to grow on”. This custom spread to Europe and eventually to the United States.
You’re welcome
Thank you Gina for such an elaborate explanation. You are highly welcome.