Symbolism

• Soul candles are lit for their spiritual and symbolic significance. Jews believe the soul of a beloved is never extinguished in the hearts of those who survive; the flame represents its perpetual burning. Furthermore, the flame represents the soul striving to reach God. By lighting the candle, the family helps their loved one grow closer and elevate to God.
  
  

Candle Parts

• The actual parts of the candle are symbolically meaningful as well. The wick represents the body and soul, the oil represents the sacred text and good deeds, and the flame represents God. The soul has an obligation in this earthly realm to light the candle. By living according to the sacred text and living righteously, one is elevated into the light of God.
  
  

Lighting the Candle

• Customarily, the soul candle is first lit during Shivah. Shivah is the seven-day mourning period that immediately follows a loved one's passing. The candle stays lit either at the home of the departed, or in the place where the mourners sit for Shivah. The candle is then lit again during the Hebrew calendar year, including Yom Kippur, Sukkot and Passover, and on the first anniversary of the loved person's death.
  
  

Family

• According to tradition, the candle is lit by the loved person's closest family, including parents, spouse, siblings and children. Family members may take turns lighting the candle on the different occasions for which it is lit. Some Jewish grave sites are marked by a special box protected from the elements, in which the candle is placed.
  
  

Candlemaking

• Soul candles are prepared in a special ritual during the season of Rosh Hashanah. Women make the candles, and the tradition is passed down through daughters. During the rolling of the candles, the women read prayers. Each wick is dedicated to a beloved soul. Sometimes, wicks are wrapped and twisted together to symbolize the intertwining of two beloved souls, such as a husband and wife. Once prepared, some of the soul candles are presented to the synagogue for use and others are kept for home rituals.