From Two Flames to One: The Symbolism of the Unity Candle in Marriage

Dear couples embarking on the journey of marriage,

The unity candle ceremony is a beautiful tradition often incorporated into wedding ceremonies. It symbolizes the merging of two individual lives into one shared journey as a married couple. In this article, we'll explore the significance of the unity candle ceremony and the powerful message it conveys.

1. The Symbolism of Two Lit Candles:

In the unity candle ceremony, two individual candles represent the lives of the bride and groom before they enter into marriage. These candles represent their unique experiences, backgrounds, and histories. They signify the separate paths that led them to this moment.

2. The Act of Lighting the Third Candle:

As the bride and groom come together, they each take a lit candle, typically held by their respective families, and use the flames to light a third, central candle. This act symbolizes the unity of their lives as they begin their journey together as a married couple.

3. The Significance of Unity:

The unity candle ceremony serves as a visual representation of the biblical principle of "leave and cleave." It signifies leaving behind the individual lives and identities they had before and cleaving to one another in a new, unified life as husband and wife.

4. Leaving and Cleaving:

The concept of "leave and cleave" is rooted in the idea that when two people marry, they form a new family unit. They leave behind their families of origin to create a bond that takes precedence over all other relationships. The unity candle ceremony symbolizes this commitment to one another above all else.

5. The Journey of Marriage:

Just as the two flames become one in the central candle, the unity candle ceremony represents the merging of two individuals into a united partnership. It's a reminder that, while each person brings their unique qualities and experiences to the marriage, they are now bound together in a shared journey.

6. The Promise of Unity:

By lighting the central candle together, the couple makes a promise to support, cherish, and uplift each other throughout their married life. It signifies their commitment to facing life's challenges and joys as a team.

The unity candle ceremony is a powerful and symbolic tradition that beautifully captures the essence of marriage. It represents the transition from separate lives to a new life together, grounded in love, unity, and the promise to leave and cleave. As you incorporate this tradition into your wedding ceremony, may it serve as a lasting reminder of the unity and commitment you share as a married couple.

-Tools for Marriage 🛠️