Earth
Dance

By Hazel Dunlin

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Hazel's Book of Shadows

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Candle Magick  

     Candles have been used in magickal workings since ancient times.  Ever make a wish before you blow out your birthday cake candles?  Yes?  Then you've already performed candle magick!  Just like a wand or an athame, candles are tools.  Any type of candle can be used for your work.  The important attributes of candles are their color.  Herbs and/or herbal oils can also be used to strengthen a candle's magick.  See the 'Colors & Numbers' page for color meanings.

     A new candle should be used for each new spell.  The candle should not be cracked, broken or damaged in any way.  Make sure you have time when you plan to do your candle magick, because the candle usually must be allowed to burn out on it's own and you should never leave a candle burning unattended!

     Using herbs or herbal oils with your candles can increase your candle's power.  For increasing magick, before the candle is lit, rub candle with appropriate herb(s) or herbal oil(s) from the bottom to the top of the candle.  For decreasing magick, before the candle is lit, rub candle with the appropriate  herb(s) or herbal oil(s) from the top to the bottom.

     Before you light your candle, clear your mind of all thoughts except for the intended need.  Let the match used to light the candle burn out in a fire proof container such as an ashtray, don't blow it out.  Once the candle is lit, imagine your need manifesting as the flame burns.  Pour your energy into the flame and concentrate on the task at hand.  A single pinch of herbs (any more than that is a waste and a fire hazard) can be sprinkled into and around the flame in addition to or instead of any herbal rubbings.  Be sure the herbs you use have the correct properties for the needed spell.  Do the research if you want to use herbs.  Don't use an herb if you don't know what it does, you'll only defeat the purpose of your intentions.  Some spells may require you to burn a candle for only an hour each night.  If this is the case, and the candle is not used up within that hour, use a candle snuffer to put out your candle's flame until you continue the spell with that candle the next night.  Candles & Candle Snuffers at Avalon Moon, Inc.

Further Reading

For more information on candle magick, I recommend the following books.  Each book is linked to Amazon.com (on my 'Further Reading' page) where you can read write-ups, customer comments and there's purchasing info there too. It's a great place to find out what a book is about before you buy.  Some of these titles are also available for purchase on the Books page at Avalon Moon, Inc. with free shipping available in the USA.

Exploring Candle Magick by Trish Telesco
Wicca, The Complete Craft
by D.J. Conway
Earth Power
by Scott Cunningham
To Ride A Silver Broomstick by Silver Ravenwolf
Green Witchcraft by Ann Moura

The 'Further Reading' page within this site also lists additional books available.

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