Cakes are often linked to festivities like anniversaries, weddings, and birthdays. They represent happiness, celebration, and the commemoration of significant life events. With a far more entwined history, the cake we recognise today has arguably more directly descended from bread. Some ancient civilizations baked cakes as offerings to their gods and spirits. A circular cake was intended to represent the sun, moon, and the cyclical aspect of life. This theory could thus explain why cakes are seen on special occasions like birthdays as a representation of the cycle of life.
The ancient Egyptians were the first to exhibit baking skills, and during that time, cakes were more bread-like in appearance and were sweetened with honey. An ancestor of cheesecake came from the Greeks, while the Romans created fruitcakes with nuts, raisins, and other fruits. In 1800, the modern cake began to emerge in Europe, with its consistent cylindrical shape. Temperature-controlled oven technology led to the creation of lighter and more delicate cakes. Subsequently, the leavening properties of beaten eggs and yeast were identified, however, these were later substituted with chemical leavening agents.
Although cakes are not specifically mentioned in the Bible, they are believed to have symbolic significance in several contexts. Cakes were frequently included in offerings and sacrifices to God in the Old Testament (Leviticus 2). This sacrifice was made to express worship and appreciation to God for His provision and abundance. Cakes were also used as part of peace offerings and pardon offerings. They were also used to celebrate feasts and special occasions. In Exodus 12, the Israelites were commanded to eat unleavened bread during the feast of the Passover. Leavened bread was consumed as a symbol of joy and celebration at the Feast of Weeks and the Feast of Booths. In Genesis 18, three men visit Abraham, and he serves them cakes. Israelites ate Manna (cakes made with honey) during their exodus from Egypt (Ex. 16:35). The bride in Song of Solomon 5:1 describes her beau as bringing her cakes of figs. In brief, the Bible uses cakes to symbolise celebration, joy, wealth, provision, and offerings to God.
Cake cutting on Birthdays
Our birthday is a treasured day for all of us. Everything about this day adds to its specialness—from candles to gifts to well-wishes from our loved ones. The birthday cake, however, is one more item that cannot be overlooked on birthdays as it is the celebration's main attraction.
The origins of birthday cakes can be traced to the Middle Ages when German parents baked cakes for their kids' birthday celebrations, which they named Kinderfest. The cakes were gritty and resembled bread at first. They were later made tastier and sweeter. The modern birthday cake entered the market in the 17th century, replacing traditional desserts. These birthday cakes had multiple layers, unique designs, and wonderful icing, giving them a refreshing and fantastic appearance.
Why Blow Candles on Birthdays?
The tradition of placing a large candle in the center of cakes originated in Germany as a symbol of "the light of life." Blowing out birthday candles has various theories behind it. One Greek theory connects it to the custom of burning candles for the birth of the goddess Artemis. Additionally, Pagans believed that birthday candles protected the celebrant from evil spirits, with friends and family making noise to ward them off.
Another myth, dating back to 1881 in Switzerland, links blowing out candles to wishes coming true if all candles are extinguished in one breath, with the rising smoke carrying prayers to the gods. Blowing birthday candles has another origin myth that dates back to 1881 in Switzerland.
The Wedding cake
No matter the culture, harmony and unity are fundamental components of any marriage. Committing to staying together for the rest of the couple's life is undoubtedly significant. The cake represents the oneness and bond both partners swear to uphold "until death do you part." Wedding cakes are believed to have originated as a fertility, luck, and prosperity symbol. It was intended to ensure a long and happy life with many children by using the best ingredients available.
Originating in Rome, the tradition of cutting the wedding cake symbolises the first joint action of the couple. Initially performed by the bride to mark the loss of her virginity, the act of cutting the cake together represents their unity and cooperation as partners. Additionally, the exchange of small pieces of cake symbolises their love, affection, and commitment to support each other. Furthermore, holding the knife together represents the couple's cooperation as a cohesive unit to finish their first duty as husband and wife.
History of the Wedding Cake
Wheat was used to make cakes in ancient Rome, representing wealth and fertility. The custom of serving wedding cakes first emerged in England during the Middle Ages. Guests usually brought small cakes to the wedding celebration at that time. The couple would try to kiss over the tower by piling these on top of one another. It was considered a lucky sign for the newlyweds if they managed to share a kiss without toppling the tower. Usually, their good fortune translated into them being blessed with a large family.
The tiered wedding cake style was inspired by the unusual spire of St Bride's church in the city of London. According to legend, an apprentice baker named William Rich fell in love with Susannah Prichard, the boss's daughter. Rich made a lavish cake for his wedding to win her over. When he noticed the neighboring steeple, he searched the area for ideas; the rest was history.
