A votive candle signifies literally that the lighting is done in fulfillment of a vow (Latin, votum), although in most cases the intention is to give honor and to seek help from the saint before whose images the candle is lit and to pray for the dead.

What are votive candles and why are they useful?

Votive candles are one of the smaller types of candles that you can get, meaning that they're easy to switch up and change out. They're taller than tealight candles, and have been created with a special bell-top design to allow the wax to melt fully and evenly, allowing for an even distribution of mild fragrance.

What is a votive used for?

A votive offering or votive deposit is one or more objects displayed or deposited, without the intention of recovery or use, in a sacred place for religious purposes. Such items are a feature of modern and ancient societies and are generally made in order to gain favor with supernatural forces.