Have you ever heard of a kwanzaa candle holder? If not, the answer might surprise you – it’s called a kinara. Kwanzaa is a weeklong celebration of African heritage and culture that takes place between December 26th and January 1st, and the kinara is an essential part of the festivities.
The kinara typically holds seven candles, one for each day of Kwanzaa. Three of the candles are red, representing the struggles of the past; three are green, symbolizing hope for the future; and the seventh is black, representing the people. The candles are lit one at a time, in order, and each night has a different theme or principle associated with it, such as unity or self-determination.
The tradition of Kwanzaa and the kinara is rooted in African culture and values, but it has spread to communities throughout the world. For those who celebrate, the kinara is a powerful symbol of their heritage and a reminder of the principles and values that they hold dear. Whether you’re a longtime Kwanzaa participant or just learning about the holiday, the kinara is an essential part of this unique and meaningful celebration.
Kwanzaa History and Meaning
Kwanzaa is a cultural celebration that was created in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga, an African American professor of African Studies. It is celebrated from December 26 to January 1 and is a way for African Americans and others in the African diaspora to honor their heritage and traditions.
- The name Kwanzaa comes from the Swahili phrase “matunda ya kwanza” which means first fruits of the harvest.
- There are seven principles of Kwanzaa, known as Nguzo Saba, which promote unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith.
- Each day of Kwanzaa is focused on one of these principles, and celebrations often include lighting candles, feasting, and exchanging gifts.
One important symbol of Kwanzaa is the kinara, a candle holder with seven candles, three red ones on the left, three green ones on the right, and one black one in the center.
| Candle | Color | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Black candle | Center | Represents the first principle of Kwanzaa, unity. |
| Red candles | Left | Represent the principles of self-determination, cooperative economics, and purpose. |
| Green candles | Right | Represent the principles of collective work and responsibility, creativity, and faith. |
The kinara is often made out of wood or metal and can be decorated with African motifs or symbols. The seven candles are lit each night of Kwanzaa, with the black candle being lit first on December 26 and a different red or green candle being lit each subsequent night.
Kwanzaa Celebrations
What is a Kwanzaa Candle Holder Called?
Kwanzaa is a holiday that celebrates African-American heritage, values, and culture. It is celebrated over seven days, from December 26th to January 1st each year. During this period, families and friends come together to celebrate the Seven Principles of Kwanzaa, which are unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith. One of the ways in which people celebrate this holiday is by using a special candle holder called a Kinara.
- A Kinara is a seven-branched candle holder that is used during Kwanzaa celebrations.
- The Kinara symbolizes African roots and the seven principles of Kwanzaa.
- The Kinara is typically made of wood, and the seven branches represent the Seven Principles of Kwanzaa.
The seven candles that are placed in the Kinara are also significant. There are three green candles, which represent the principles of self-determination, cooperative economics, and creativity. There are also three red candles, which represent the principles of unity, collective work and responsibility, and purpose. Finally, there is one black candle, which represents the principle of faith.
The candles are lit daily during Kwanzaa, starting with the black candle on the first day, and then alternating between lighting the three red candles and the three green candles. The candle lighting ceremony is a way for people to reflect on the Seven Principles of Kwanzaa and to renew their commitment to these principles.
The Kinara and candle lighting ceremony are just two of the many ways in which people celebrate Kwanzaa. Other traditions include storytelling, music, and dance, as well as the sharing of traditional foods and gifts.
The Seven Principles of Kwanzaa
Kwanzaa is an African-American holiday that honors African heritage and celebrates the principles of unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith. The holiday takes place from December 26th to January 1st, and during this time, people celebrate with feasts, music, dance, storytelling, and lighting of the kinara, a special candle holder.
What is a Kwanzaa Candle Holder Called?
The Kwanzaa candle holder is called a kinara. The kinara is a seven-branched candelabra that is used to hold the seven candles that symbolize the Seven Principles of Kwanzaa. Each candle represents one of the principles and is lit on a different day during the week-long celebration.
- The first candle is black and represents unity.
- The second candle is red and represents self-determination.
- The third candle is green and represents collective work and responsibility.
- The fourth candle is another red candle and represents cooperative economics.
- The fifth candle is another green candle and represents purpose.
- The sixth candle is another red candle and represents creativity.
- The seventh candle is another green candle and represents faith.
The kinara is usually made of wood and can be designed in various styles and shapes. Some people prefer to decorate their kinara with African patterns, beads, shells, or other African-inspired materials.
The Third Principle: Collective Work and Responsibility
The third principle of Kwanzaa is collective work and responsibility. This principle encourages people to work together to build and maintain their communities. It stresses that each individual has a responsibility to contribute to the larger community and that by working together, people can achieve more than they can on their own.
During Kwanzaa, people are encouraged to participate in community service, volunteer work, and other acts of kindness that benefit their communities. By doing so, they demonstrate their commitment to the principle of collective work and responsibility and contribute to the well-being of those around them.
This principle also emphasizes the importance of sharing resources and working towards common goals. It encourages people to pool their resources and talents to achieve shared objectives and promote the overall betterment of their communities.
| Actions to Practice Collective Work and Responsibility during Kwanzaa |
|---|
| Participate in community service or volunteer work |
| Work together with others to achieve common goals |
| Share resources and talents to benefit the larger community |
By embodying the principle of collective work and responsibility, people can work together to create strong communities and promote greater social cohesion.
Kwanzaa Decorations and Symbols
Kwanzaa is a week-long holiday that celebrates African American culture and heritage. It was created by Dr. Maulana Karenga in 1966 and is observed from December 26th to January 1st. During this festive week, African Americans decorate their homes with traditional symbols and colors that represent the seven principles of Kwanzaa.
Kwanzaa Candle Holder
- One of the most important symbols of Kwanzaa is the Kinara, a candle holder that holds seven candles representing the seven principles of Kwanzaa: unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith.
- The Kinara is typically made of wood and can be decorated with various African designs and colors.
- The seven candles that are placed in the Kinara are red, green, and black, which are the colors of the Kwanzaa flag. The three red candles represent the principles of self-determination, purpose, and faith. The three green candles represent the principles of unity, collective work and responsibility, and cooperative economics. The black candle in the center represents the principle of creativity.
Kwanzaa Decorations
In addition to the Kinara, there are other traditional Kwanzaa decorations that are used to celebrate the holiday:
- Mazao: A basket of fruits and vegetables that represents the harvest and the bounty of the earth.
- Kente cloth: A colorful fabric that is worn during Kwanzaa and represents African culture and heritage.
- Kinara mat: A decorative mat that is typically placed under the Kinara.
- Zawadi: Gifts that are given to loved ones during Kwanzaa to represent the love and appreciation that is shared.
Kwanzaa Symbols
There are several other symbols of Kwanzaa that represent important aspects of African American culture and heritage:
| Symbol | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Nguzo Saba | The seven principles of Kwanzaa: unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith. |
| Bendera | The Kwanzaa flag, which features black, green, and red stripes and represents the struggle for freedom and unity among African Americans. |
| Kikombe cha Umoja | The unity cup, which is used to pour libations in honor of ancestors and to symbolize the unity of the African American community. |
By incorporating these traditional symbols and decorations into their celebrations, African Americans honor their culture and heritage while also spreading the message of unity, purpose, and creativity to their families and communities.
Kwanzaa Candle Lighting Ceremony
Kwanzaa is an African-American celebration that lasts for seven days and takes place from December 26 to January 1. The holiday is named for the Swahili phrase “matunda ya kwanza,” which means “first fruits.” Each day of Kwanzaa is associated with one of the seven principles of Kwanzaa, which are unity, self-determination, collective responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith. Kwanzaa candle lighting is an important part of the holiday, and a Kwanzaa candle holder is used to hold the seven candles.
The Kwanzaa candle holder is called a kinara. The kinara holds seven candles, one for each of the seven principles of Kwanzaa. The kinara is a long, narrow, wooden or ceramic candle holder with seven candle holders in a straight line. The candle holders are usually made to look like the branches of a tree, the traditional symbol of African life.
- The kinara has three red candles, three green candles, and one black candle, which is placed in the center.
- The black candle is lit first on the first day of Kwanzaa, which is called Umoja or Unity. The candle is used to light the other candles in the kinara.
- Each night, a new candle is lit and one of the seven principles of Kwanzaa is discussed.
The candle lighting ceremony is an important part of Kwanzaa. The candles are lit in a specific order, and each candle represents a different principle of Kwanzaa. The candle lighting ceremony is a way to honor the ancestors and the African culture. It is also a way to pass down the values and principles of Kwanzaa to the next generation.
Here is the order of the candle lighting ceremony:
| Day | Principle | Candle Color |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Umoja (Unity) | Black |
| 2 | Kujichagulia (Self-Determination) | Red |
| 3 | Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility) | Green |
| 4 | Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics) | Red |
| 5 | Nia (Purpose) | Green |
| 6 | Kuumba (Creativity) | Red |
| 7 | Imani (Faith) | Green |
By lighting the candles and discussing the principles of Kwanzaa, families and communities reaffirm their commitment to African culture, heritage, and values. The candle lighting ceremony is a powerful way to celebrate Kwanzaa and to connect with the past and the future.
Types of Kwanzaa Candle Holders
Kwanzaa is an African American and Pan-African holiday that celebrates family, community, and culture. One of the essential elements of Kwanzaa is the lighting of a seven-candle holder called Kinara. The Kinara represents the African continental origin of Kwanzaa and the roots of African Americans. However, the Kinara comes in different styles and designs that reflect the diversity and creativity of the African American culture. In this article, we will explore the different types of Kwanzaa candle holders.
Kinara Candle Holders
- The traditional Kinara candle holder consists of seven candleholders arranged in a row on a wooden base. Three candleholders are placed on the left, three on the right, and one in the middle. The three candles on the left represent the principles of Umoja (unity), Kujichagulia (self-determination), and Ujima (collective work and responsibility). The three candles on the right represent the principles of Ujamaa (cooperative economics), Nia (purpose), and Kuumba (creativity). The center candle represents the principle of Imani (faith).
- Modern Kinara candle holders come in different materials, colors, and styles. Some are made of wood, metal, or stone, while others are decorated with African tribal patterns or symbols. Some Kinara candle holders are adjustable, allowing you to move the candles closer or farther apart, while others have fixed candle positions.
Celebratory Candle Holders
Aside from the Kinara candle holder, there are other types of candle holders used in Kwanzaa celebrations.
- The Unity Cup or Kikombe cha Umoja is a cup used to pour libations during the Kwanzaa ceremony. The cup is usually made of wood or pottery and is decorated with African motifs. It symbolizes the idea of sharing and unity.
- The Mishumaa Saba or seven candles represent the seven principles of Kwanzaa mentioned earlier. They are usually lit with a match or lighter and are kept burning throughout the Kwanzaa week.
- The Mkeka or mat is used as a symbol of the foundation upon which families and communities build their lives. During Kwanzaa, the Kinara candle holder is placed on the Mkeka, emphasizing the importance of community and family in African American culture.
Conclusion
Kwanzaa candle holders come in different shapes, sizes, and designs. They represent the diversity and creativity of African American culture and convey the principles and values of Kwanzaa. Whether you prefer a traditional or modern candle holder, the important thing is to light the candles, honor your ancestors, and celebrate your community and culture.
| Type of Candle Holder | Material | Symbolism |
|---|---|---|
| Kinara | Wood, metal, stone | African continental origin, principles of Kwanzaa |
| Unity Cup/Kikombe cha Umoja | Wood, pottery | Sharing, unity |
| Mishumaa Saba/Seven Candles | Wax, beeswax | Seven principles of Kwanzaa |
| Mkeka/Mat | Straw, fabric | Foundation of family and community |
Table: Different types of Kwanzaa candle holders and their symbolism.
Making a DIY Kwanzaa Candle Holder
Kwanzaa candle holders, otherwise known as Kinara, are an essential component of the Kwanzaa celebration. The Kinara holds seven candles, each of which represents one of the seven principles of Kwanzaa. Making your own Kwanzaa candle holder can be a special and personalized way to celebrate this holiday.
The Number 7
- The number 7 is significant in Kwanzaa because there are seven principles, or Nguzo Saba, which are celebrated during the holiday.
- The seven principles are unity (Umoja), self-determination (Kujichagulia), collective work and responsibility (Ujima), cooperative economics (Ujamaa), purpose (Nia), creativity (Kuumba), and faith (Imani).
- The seven candles on the Kinara represent each of the principles and are lit over the course of the seven days of Kwanzaa.
Materials Needed
To make a DIY Kwanzaa candle holder, you will need:
- Wooden board, approximately 18 inches long and 3 inches wide
- 7 candle holders (can be purchased or made from wood)
- Red, black, and green paint
- Paintbrushes
- Sandpaper
- Wood glue
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your own Kinara:
- Measure and cut your wooden board to approximately 18 inches long and 3 inches wide. Sand the edges and surface until it is smooth.
- Using a pencil, mark where you want your candle holders to be placed on the board. We recommend spacing them evenly with the middle holder in the center.
- Paint the board red, black, or green. You can choose to alternate the colors or paint each section a single color. Allow the paint to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
- Paint the candle holders in coordinating colors to match the painted board.
- Using wood glue, attach the candle holders to the board in the marked locations. Allow the glue to dry according to the instructions on the package.
- Place your seven candles in the candle holders and light them each night of Kwanzaa.
| Principle | Color |
|---|---|
| Unity (Umoja) | Black |
| Self-Determination (Kujichagulia) | Red |
| Collective Work & Responsibility (Ujima) | Green |
| Cooperative Economics (Ujamaa) | Black |
| Purpose (Nia) | Red |
| Creativity (Kuumba) | Green |
| Faith (Imani) | Black |
Celebrating Kwanzaa in your own way can be a beautiful way to honor the history and traditions of the holiday. Creating your own Kwanzaa candle holder can be a special and unique way to make the celebration even more meaningful.
FAQs: What is a Kwanzaa Candle Holder Called?
1. What is the significance of the Kwanzaa candle holder?
The Kwanzaa candle holder is called a Kinara and is significant because it represents the African ancestry of the holiday’s celebrants.
2. How many candles does a Kinara hold?
A Kinara holds seven candles, each representing one of the seven principles of Kwanzaa.
3. What are the seven principles of Kwanzaa?
The seven principles of Kwanzaa are Unity, Self-Determination, Collective Work and Responsibility, Cooperative Economics, Purpose, Creativity, and Faith.
4. What materials are Kinara candle holders made of?
Kinara candle holders can be made of a variety of materials such as wood, ceramic, or metal.
5. Can I use any candles in a Kinara?
Traditionally, Kwanzaa candles are red, green, and black, but any candles that fit in the Kinara can be used.
6. Is the Kinara unique to Kwanzaa?
Yes, the Kinara is a unique symbol to Kwanzaa and is not found in any other African or African-American holiday tradition.
7. Do I need a Kinara to celebrate Kwanzaa?
While a Kinara is a traditional part of Kwanzaa celebrations, it is not required. Celebrants can use any candle holder they wish to represent the seven principles.
Closing: Thanks For Exploring What a Kwanzaa Candle Holder is Called!
We hope this article helped you understand more about the Kwanzaa candle holder and its importance in celebrating the holiday’s principles. Remember, while the Kinara is a traditional part of Kwanzaa, it is not necessary to celebrate the holiday. Thanks for reading, and please visit again for more articles on culture and traditions!