What does the candle symbolize in this excerpt from leo tolstoys the death of ivan llyich?

The candle can symbolize, light, which is a metaphor for waking up, coming to terms with reality or knowledge. Seeing the light, which means the truth. It can also mean the light which represents the other side, death is darkness, and light, is the resurrection.

Another possibility, it can symbolize acceptance. Ivan accepting his fate.