The use of candles can be traced back thousands of years, to ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians and Romans who used candles for both practical and religious purposes. In fact, the word "candle" comes from the Latin word "candere," meaning "to shine."In ancient times, candles were typically made from beeswax or tallow, which is animal fat. They were used for lighting homes, temples, and streets before the invention of electric lights. Candles were also used for religious rituals and ceremonies, and were often considered sacred objects.