The candle symbolizes light
in the darkness of life especially individual life, illlumination; it is the
symbol of holy illumination of the spirit of truth. Lit in times of death, they
signify the light in the next world, and they represent Christ as the light.
Purification and cleansing closely related. Festive in nature; in Judaism the
holiday Hanukah is the 'Festival of Lights', and a candle is lit for each of
the 8 nights. Used to ward off evil spirits, life safe as long as candle burns;
in relation to Halloween, candles were carried from eleven til midnight, if
the candle went out it was an evil omen, if it didn't it meant one year free
from witchcraft.
Its components also have great meaning: wax - pure flesh or humanity, wick
- soul, light - love, divinity, flame - godhead, fire - obedience, heat - humility.