Beeswax has been highly prized since ancient times and is the oldest known wax. Beeswax was found in the ancient tombs of Egyptian kings where, remarkably, it still retained its pliability after thousands of years. Beeswax was compressed into molds and actually used in place of money for purchasing items. The ancient Greeks and Romans made toy dolls of wax for children and used tablets of wax for writing. As far back as Roman times, beeswax was a major product in Europe, and taxes or tribute were commonly extracted in the form of beeswax. The records of huge quantities of wax indicate a higher level of beekeeping than is even present in modern times.

The candle as we know it was invented probably before 400 A.D. Relatively few candles were used at home; however, they were an important symbol of Christianity. Because of God's revelation of Himself as light and a consuming fire, the candle is a wonderful symbol and offering. They symbolize our burning love for Him and our unceasing prayer and the illuminating grace of the Holy Spirit. As the Christian church became established, beeswax candles came into common use in worship. The best candles were made of beeswax and were used chiefly in church rituals because the bee was regarded as a symbol of purity.

Beeswax is derived from the same source as honey, namely, from the nectar of flowers, and is essentially a further elaboration of honey itself. Secreted from the bee's own bodies, beeswax is more valuable, usually worth far more than the honey. Bees eat between 6-10 pounds of honey to produce 1 pound of wax. The eventual color of the beeswax depends on the nectar and pollen sources and the region. Once cleaned and molded into cakes, beeswax is practically indestructible. No insects or animals will feed on blocks of beeswax, thus it may be stored for long periods of time. Beeswax has the highest melt point of any natural wax (140-151 degrees F).

Beeswax candles burn significantly longer than petroleum based candles, without any smoke or soot. They burn virtually without drips when placed away from drafts. Beeswax candles produce a brighter flame, identical in spectrum to daylight. Beeswax candles smell sweetly of honey without any added fragrance or perfumes. Here at Desert Light House we use only square-braid cotton wicking in the candles we make. This type of wick was designed for beeswax and therefore is totally consumed in the flame, and does not give off any toxins.

As part of our Christian heritage beeswax candles play an important part in beautifying our worship. Without doubt the best candles for use in church services and at home are beeswax candles.