Kantilia (vigil lamp)

Lighting a kantilia is an offering/sacrifice to God. The flame represents Christ as He is the Light of the world (John 8:12) who illuminates our souls. As part of an icon corner one prays to God and His saints before a kantilia.

The kantilia is a heat-tolerate glass usually coloured red and with a pattern or Cross. It must always contain water, olive oil and a waxed wick which is threaded through a cork-floater.

The kantilia is a very meaningful part of the Faith – Christ is the source of Light in this darkened world. Olive oil has been used since the times of the Old Testament – no other oil should be used.

Another meaning that can be used is if in desperate need to quench a thirst one can drink the water as oil cannot mix with water. However, the need of adding water is more of a safety mechanism in order to put out the flame when the oil burns outs.

Lighting a kantilia

†       clear the mind of all thoughts – recite the Jesus Prayer or another prayer

†       fill one part of the glass with water (1/3) and the rest with olive oil

†       allow a small, steady flame which does not flicker

Do not throw the oil and water down the drain. As prayers are said before the kantilia the oil becomes blessed and one can anoint themselves and others with the oil when in need. When the oil and water needs to be changed (once every couple of months) pour it down a hole dug in a corner of the garden where no person or animal walks.

When changing or cleaning the kantilia, clean fingers with a tissue. Although it is not a sin if the wick or any of the oil is thrown into the bin, but by taking care to clean one’s fingers (and burn the tissues) shows sensitivity to the things dedicated to God.

When to light a kantilia

Keep it burning all day and all week, if possible.

If not, at least from Friday to Sunday, feastdays & when in need of God’s help (i.e poor health, exams etc).

Upon bringing the Light home from Ἀνάστασις on Pascha morning keep it burning in the kantilia for the next 40 days until Christ’s Ascension.

Note:

Never use an electric light kantilia. An electric globe is lifeless and not a proper offering to God. A real flame burns, moves and radiates light – think of it as being alive.

By taking the time to light the kantilia, and tending to it, shows love and faith to God. By getting oil on one’s fingers it is a sign of doing work, an offering which is only for God. While flicking a switch involves no effort and is meaningless.