lighting candles
Striking flame, touching
Lighting candles is the act of igniting candle wicks, whether for practical illumination, ambiance, or ritual purposes.
The phrase carries ceremonial weight in religious contexts—lighting candles for the dead, lighting Sabbath candles, lighting advent candles.
More casually, it suggests creating atmosphere: She was lighting candles when the guests arrived.
The deliberate, unhurried quality of the act makes it shorthand for slowing down or setting a mood.
- flameBurning gas made visible
- wickFuel-drawing cord
- waxPliable waterproof substance
- matchGame between opponents
- fire hazardCombustion danger source
glow · soft glow · flickering · warm · ritual · birthday · birthday cake · making a wish · prayer · vigil · romantic · menorah · altar · incense · illuminate · ceremony · wish · blown
- worshippraying, congregational prayer, adoration, praise God, evening prayer
- memorial customscemetery visits, grave visits, church services, requiem mass, prayer for dead
- restaurant servicetaking orders, decanting, plating, garnishing, greeting guests
- hospitality gesturesgreeting, warm reception, opening door, gift giving, invitation
- Hanukkahmenorah, dreidel, latkes, gelt, shamash
- home devotionfamily altar, home altar, family prayer, morning prayer, evening prayer