by D. Anderson

Created on: May 14, 2008

In Paganism, there are many forms of magick and a wide variety of items that can be used. One popular item in the use of rituals, prayers and spells is candles. Candle magick is a form of sympathetic magick which is a magick in which an object represents the desired outcome. Think of the stereotypical Voo Doo Doll from popular movie lore: the doll represents an enemy and sticking pins in it represents hurting the enemy. Candle magick represents the desired outcome through the use of colors or the intentions placed into the candles.

Color magick can be a very powerful form of magick, each color represents an attribute, meaning trait or need. For example, red represents passion and love while white represents protection and purity (see more colors and meanings further in this article). By visualizing the need the practitioner has, and lighting the appropriate candle, results can be achieved. The candle alone does not cause things to happen, but what it represents does. It is a way of helping the practitioner to visualize their need and often how they can help themselves to achieve that need. A candle also is a way of letting the deities, Gods or "powers that be" what the practitioner desires. It is believed that the petition (the prayer or request) is lifted up in the smoke of the flame. A practitioner will choose a candle color that befits their need or desire. Often, a variety of colors can be used to represent more than one need or the combination of colors can lead to a new meaning.

Candles also represent 2 elements: fire and earth. Fire is in the candle flame and earth is the wax the candle is made from. Some even believe that the fire represents a person's spirit. The smoke from the flame can be attributed to the element of air and if very creative, a floating candle can represent all the elements in one: fire, earth, air and water. The elements are very important in many pagan studies or traditions. Often spirit is added as the 5th element and these 5 elements are represented by the points of the star. Many spells or altars require the representation of all the elements in order to be effective. Using a candle in such a way as described can eliminate the need for a large space due to all the elements being represented in one item.

In many metaphysical and new age shops, candles can be purchased that already have an intent or need "encoded" in them. A customer might find a spell labeled "love," or one for "financial security." Often the basic colors as described

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