votives

Mon, 04 May 2026 04:17:50 +0000

Explore the Timeless Beauty and Meaning of Votes: Symbols of Devotion, Memory, and Faith In the world of tradition, spirituality, and personal expression, votives stand as small yet deeply meaningful objects with a rich history and universal appeal. Whether floating by a church altar, scattered in a sacred garden, or used in modern decorative designs, votives carry an enduring message of hope, gratitude, and remembrance. But what exactly are votives, and why do they remain so cherished across cultures and faiths? ### What Are Votes? The word vote originally comes from the Latin votum, meaning a promise or vow made to a deity or higher power. In contemporary usage, especially within religious and spiritual contexts, votives refer to small symbolic offerings—or items—devoted to a god, saint, or spiritual cause. Votives come in many forms: candles, paper figures, small figurines, flowers, or specially designed lanterns. They are typically presented as a personal gesture of faith, prayer, or remembrance.