What is the origin of putting a candle in every window of your house?

Question

I've seen a bunch of houses where they put a fake candle in every window of their house. What is the purpose/origin of this?

Answer 1

Back in the day, when electricity was a form of witchcraft, it was a way for people to find there way home from hunting, farming, or fishing.

"Every window" back then was usually 1 or two at the most.

They were all extinguished when every body was home safe.

Now it is used for the holidays as a symbol for the return of Jesus.

I read this somewhere a couple of years ago.

Answer 2

Candles In The Window

Answer 3

My family put a light/candle in the window when a loved one/family member was expected. Put A Light In The Window was also a song by the Four Lads

Answer 4

This Site Might Help You.

RE:
What is the origin of putting a candle in every window of your house?
I've seen a bunch of houses where they put a fake candle in every window of their house. What is the purpose/origin of this?

Answer 5

I was taught it originated in Ireland during the time that the King of England was forcing people to join the Church of England. Churches were burned. Catholicism was forbidden, and Irish Catholic priests and Catholics were not allowed to say or attend mass/services. So, risking their lives if they were caught, the priests would go out after dark to go to the homes of those people who wanted a mass or to receive the Eucharist. Those people who wanted the priest to stop at their home would put a candle in the window as a signal to the priest to stop in.

Answer 6

To guide the sailers back when they were out to sea. You kept a candle burning even if they were going to be gone for months or years.

Answer 7

They used to do this in the old days. It is to welcome someone home. My mom lives in the east and everyone has candles in their windows there.