Candles

Candles are widely used in Wicca and related forms of Paganism and Neopaganism, as they are in many other religions. Consecrated candles are frequently used on the altar to represent the presence of the God and Goddess, and in the four corners of a ritual circle to represent the presence of the four classical elements: Fire, Earth, Air and Water. Candles are burned at all ceremonies, and the lighting and extinguishing of candles often marks the opening and closing of the ritual.

A candle can be consecrated and charged with magical energy by cleansing it and anointing it with a small amount of oil during the waxing phase of the moon. The candle can also be carved or painted with appropriate magical symbols to further empower the candles with those energies.

Candles are frequently used for magical meditative purposes, in healing rituals, to help increase a spell's power, or to influence a particular power. Candles are believed to be able to absorb one's personal energy and release this energy when burned. In preparing to cast a spell, the witch may dress or anoint the candle with an anointing oil while concentrating upon the purpose of the spell (the spell’s purpose dictates the formula of the oil). Or, alternatively, the witch may scratch a wish on the candle.

Altar candles are traditionally thick tall candles or long tapers in many colours. Ideally, they should be home-made from beeswax, using natural dyes and essential oils if desired. Each colour has its own vibration, attribute, symbolism and influence, and different colours correspond to the different signs of the Zodiac, the different days of the week, the different Sabbat celebrations, etc.