Jerusalem candles - questions and answers, everything you need to know
Jerusalem candles are an Orthodox gift, one of the manifestations of the descent of the Holy Fire.
The light from them is the Divine light that the Lord brought into the world!
Each candle is handmade by monks in the Holy Land from natural beeswax and infused with honey for a divine aroma.
I will answer your frequently asked questions:
Why are there 33 candles in a bunch❓
The “Torch” consists of 33 candles, according to the number of years of the earthly life of Jesus Christ and are closely connected to each other, representing one large candle.
Is it possible to separate 33 candles❓
The clergy of the Temple do not recommend separating a bunch of candles, because a bunch of 33 candles symbolizes the 33 years of the earthly life of Jesus Christ and the Divine light that came into the world after his death and resurrection. Therefore, as a rule, candles in a bundle are not separated from each other, but the entire bunch is lit.
Jerusalem candles: when to light❓
It is customary to light a bundle at Easter, on the twelfth and great holidays, but also in any life situation when a believer needs special support and help from above.
How to light them❓
The best way to light candles is with a match.
How to put out a fire❓
You can extinguish them with your hand, a cap, a glass or some kind of vessel, or by lowering them into water, so that a piece of the Grateful Fire will remain in them.
You cannot light Jerusalem candles on days of mourning, on Christmas Day, on Good Friday of Holy Week.
How to properly store candles❓
They should be stored carefully wrapped in linen cloth next to the icons, at a temperature of −15 to +25 degrees (do not allow direct rays of the sun to fall on the torch).
IMPORTANT❗️In order for the Jerusalem candles, scorched by the Holy Fire, to serve for a long time, they do not need to be burned to the end. It is enough to light a church candle from a bunch of Jerusalem candles, and immediately extinguish the Jerusalem candles. Through the flame of a church candle, all the properties of the Holy Fire are transmitted and inexplicable magical power works wonders.
Before sending the candles, I consecrate them on the Stone of Confirmation and burn them with the Holy Fire, so when you light them in the future, they will burn with the same Holy Fire, bringing Divine Light into your home.
Let them bring a piece of the Holy Fire to your home 🙏