Uncover the Festive Symbolism: What Is the Candle Holder for Kwanzaa Called?
What To Know
- The kinara is typically placed on a table or mantle in the center of the room where Kwanzaa is being celebrated.
- The kinara serves as a focal point for the celebration and a reminder of the values that Kwanzaa upholds.
- Whether traditional or contemporary, the kinara is a reminder of the unity and strength of the African American community.
Kwanzaa, a week-long celebration of African American culture and heritage, is a time for family, reflection, and unity. One of the central symbols of Kwanzaa is the kinara, a candle holder that holds seven candles.
Origin and Meaning of the Kinara
The kinara is a traditional African artifact that has been used for centuries to hold candles during ceremonies and celebrations. The word “kinara” comes from the Swahili word “kinara,” which means “holder.”
In the context of Kwanzaa, the kinara represents the seven principles of the holiday: unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith. Each candle represents one of these principles, and the kinara itself symbolizes the unity of the African American community.
Design and Construction of the Kinara
Traditional kinaras are made of wood, but they can also be made of other materials, such as metal, ceramic, or glass. They typically have seven candle holders arranged in a row, with the center candle being slightly larger than the others.
The kinaras are often decorated with African motifs, such as carvings, beads, or fabric. The colors used in the decoration often reflect the colors of the Kwanzaa flag: red, black, and green.
Placement and Use of the Kinara
The kinara is typically placed on a table or mantle in the center of the room where Kwanzaa is being celebrated. The candles are lit one by one each day of Kwanzaa, starting with the black candle in the center on the first day.
During the lighting of the candles, the principles of Kwanzaa are read aloud and discussed. The kinara serves as a focal point for the celebration and a reminder of the values that Kwanzaa upholds.
Other Names for the Candle Holder
In addition to “kinara,” the candle holder for Kwanzaa is sometimes referred to by other names, such as:
- Mishumaa saba (Swahili for “seven candles”)
- Seven-candle candelabra
- Kwanzaa candle holder
Variations on the Kinara
Over the years, there have been many variations on the traditional kinara. Some kinaras have more than seven candle holders, while others have different shapes or designs.
Some contemporary kinaras are made of modern materials, such as acrylic or metal, and feature abstract or geometric designs. However, the basic concept of the kinara as a symbol of unity and celebration remains the same.
Recommendations: The Kinara as a Symbol of Kwanzaa
The kinara is an essential symbol of Kwanzaa. It represents the seven principles of the holiday and serves as a focal point for the celebration. Whether traditional or contemporary, the kinara is a reminder of the unity and strength of the African American community.
What You Need to Know
1. What is the significance of the seven candles on the kinara?
The seven candles represent the seven principles of Kwanzaa: unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith.
2. What materials are kinaras typically made of?
Traditional kinaras are made of wood, but they can also be made of other materials, such as metal, ceramic, or glass.
3. What are some variations on the traditional kinara?
Some kinaras have more than seven candle holders, while others have different shapes or designs. Some contemporary kinaras are made of modern materials and feature abstract or geometric designs.
