You may notice cultures around the world use candles in their ceremonies, rituals and celebrations. In addition to being a light source, candles and lanterns were used in ancient times for religious observances to honor their gods and ancestors with fire magic. Christian churches began using candles around the Middle Ages for prayer intention and to symbolize the Divine light. In the Buddhist tradition, the light of the flame represents the enlightenment of Buddha’s teaching. Modern Wicca practices may use candles for tools in elemental, number and color magic spells and intentions.

On a symbolic level, a candle embodies the five elements: earth, water, air, fire and spirit. The wick and base signify earth. The wax, which transforms from a solid to a liquid, emulates the transmutational properties of water. Air keeps the flame. And, of course the flame is the fire element. The element of spirit is present when we add our intention.

Ultimately, candles are a tool – the magic is in your intention and willpower.

The color of the candle is sometimes used to enhance specific intention settings:

• Red: Courage and health, sexual love, and lust
• Orange: Attraction and encouragement
• Gold: Financial gain, business endeavors, and solar connections
• Yellow: Persuasion and protection
• Green: Financial gain, abundance, and fertility
• Blue: Health, patience, and understanding
• Purple: Ambition and power
• Black: Negativity and banishment
• White: Purity and truth

Barjon’s offers a wide selection of pillar, votive and pillar candles, as well as books to learn more about candle magic..