Riddle #9 – What Am I?

And while you’re here, check out these 10 facts about Candles…

Ancient Origins: The earliest candles were made by the ancient Egyptians around 3000 BCE. They used torches made by soaking the pithy core of reeds in melted animal fat.

Materials: Traditional candles were made from tallow (animal fat). Over time, other materials like beeswax, paraffin, soy, and palm wax have been used.

Beeswax Candles: The ancient Romans are credited with developing the wicked candle by dipping rolled papyrus repeatedly in melted tallow or beeswax. Beeswax candles burn cleaner and brighter than tallow candles.

Symbolism: Candles have deep symbolic meaning in many religions. For instance, in Christianity, they represent the light of God or the light of Christ. In Judaism, the Hanukkah menorah has candles that are lit to commemorate the miracle of the oil in the Second Temple.

Scented Candles: Scented candles have been around since ancient times. The Chinese used whale fat to produce scented candles, while the Indians used cinnamon.

Bayberry Candles: In colonial America, bayberry candles, made from the wax of the bayberry shrub, were highly prized because they burned cleanly with a bright light. However, it took many berries to produce just one candle, making them a rare luxury.

Safety: According to the National Fire Protection Association, candles are one of the leading causes of home fires. It’s important to never leave burning candles unattended.

Longest Burning Candle: The world record for the longest burning candle was set in 1996 in Norway. The candle burned for 58 days, 15 hours, 4 minutes, and 22 seconds.

Candle Making: The art and science of making candles is called chandlery.

Modern Uses: While candles were once a primary source of light, their role has largely shifted to decorative and aromatic purposes in the modern world. They’re popular in settings for relaxation, celebration, and ambiance, and are often associated with spa treatments, romantic dinners, and power outages.