Why does the Kwanzaa kinara have seven candles?
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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 the Kwanzaa holiday. The kinara holds seven candles to represent the seven core principles of the celebration, known as the Nguzo Saba.1
Each of the seven days of Kwanzaa is dedicated to one of these principles:
* Umoja (Unity)
* Kujichagulia (Self-determination)
* Ujima (Collective work and responsibility)
* Ujamaa (Cooperative economics)
* Nia (Purpose)
* Kuumba (Creativity)
* Imani (Faith)1
During the holiday, families gather to light one candle in the kinara each day, using the opportunity to discuss the specific principle associated with that candle. The candles are traditionally colored red, green, and black to reflect African heritage.1