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How is the kinara used during Kwanzaa?
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candlestick
An assortment of decorative candles and candlesticks arranged for display.
The kinara is not merely a decorative candlestick; it is a central symbol of Kwanzaa used to represent the holiday's seven core principles.1
During the seven-day celebration, which runs from December 26 to January 1, families use the kinara to facilitate daily reflection. The process involves the following:1
- Lighting Ritual: On each of the seven days, the family gathers to light one of the seven candles placed in the kinara.1
- Principle Focus: Each day is dedicated to one of the seven principles of Kwanzaa: unity (umoja), self-determination (kujichagulia), collective work and responsibility (ujima), cooperative economics (ujamaa), purpose (nia), creativity (kuumba), and faith (imani).21
- Discussion: As the candle is lit, the family discusses the specific principle associated with that day.1
The candles themselves are colored red, green, and black to reflect the African heritage of the holiday. While the kinara is a functional candleholder, its role is essential to the communal and educational focus of the Kwanzaa observance.13