Candle Meaning In Ritual Work

Candles are and have, held an important place in traditions and rituals throughout history. Holding association with color, shape and burn time, they hold the ability to promote the energies necessary to achieve desired results. There are associations not only with the types of candles used, but also in understanding the different flames you may encounter.

6 types of candles, common uses and associated burn times

7-day jar candles - Used for multi-day or very long rituals - 60-80 hour burn time

Pillar Candles - Ideal for Alters and Sacred Spaces - 25-35 hour burn time.

Votive Candles - Double the size of tea lights, ideal replacement for Pillar candles- 8-10 hours burn time.

Taper Candles - Should be solid color all the way through - Creates atmosphere- Used when fast results are desired- 6-10 hours burn time.

Tea Lights- Very small votives poured into small aluminum cups- ideal for spell work done on successive days- 3-4 hour burn time.

Chime Candle - Ideal for spell work, needs a special wax holder, catcher - 2-3 hours burn time.

Reading your flame

Large, Bright Flame - Strong positive energy fuels your charm, plus prosperity and luck!

Normal, Steady Flame: Positive energies surround the spell

Tall, Strong Flame: Powerful energy encapsulates your intention, promising swift manifestations

Small, Bright flame: Fortells of forthcoming success

Short, Steady Flame: The ritual holds low energy. May encounter setbacks or challenging conclusions

Small, Weak Flame: Possibility of obstacles prior to fruition

Dim Flame: Disappointment, in ritual or desired outcome may be encountered

Leaning Flame: Change lies ahead

Wild, Dancing Flame: Your ritual is full of high, chaotic energy. Anticipate unexpected results or obstacles to dance around, as the flame dances atop the candle

Fuluttering - as your heart <3 Represents energies of romance

Flickering Flame: This flame often signifies the presence of spirits or outside energies , however, it may instead represent wavering fortune or enemies. Let your intuition guide you

Twisting - Prediction of unseen enemies or energies

Crackling/Popping Flame: Something is trying to speak with you. Listen, follow your intuition, and modify your intentions as you feel appropriate

Sparking Flame - Ominous and foreboding of danger or ill will. Protection spells or talismans are suggested

White Smoke: Blessings, luck and success

Black Smoke: Warns of conflict and negative, opposing energies

No Flame Will Not Burn or Breaks (itself or holder): Take this time to focus and reflect. It is not the right time to perform the charm.