Bible Dictionary
Dictionary
CANDLE, noun
1. A long, but small cylindrical body of tallow, wax or spermaceti, formed on a wick composed of linen or cotton threads, twisted loosely; used for a portable light of domestic use.
2. A light.
3. A light; a luminary. In scripture, the candle of the Lord is the divine favor and blessing, Job 14:1. 3.; or the conscience or understanding. Proverbs 20:27.
Excommunication by inch of candle is when the offender is allowed time to repent, while a candle burns, and is then excommunicated.
Sale by inch of candle is an auction in which persons are allowed to bid, only till a small piece of candle burns out.
Medicated candle in medicine, a bougie.
Rush-candles are used in some countries; they are made of the pith of certain rushes, peeled except on one side, and dipped in grease.
CANDLE-BERRY TREE, noun The Maraca cerifera, or wax-bearing myrtle; a shrub common in North America, from the berries of which a kind of wax or oil is procured, of which candles are made. The oil is obtained by boiling the berries in water; the oil rising to the surface is skimmed of, and when cool, is of the consistence of wax, and of a dull green color. In popular language, this is called bayberry tallow.