Candles

Historical Background

The word "candle" is derived from the Middle English candel, from Old English and Anglo-Norman candele, stemming from the Latin candēla, from candēre meaning 'to shine'. This etymology reflects the candle’s primary purpose: to bring light. However, in magickal practices, candles also illuminate the spiritual path and enhance energetic work.

Choosing the Right Candle: Paraffin vs. Beeswax vs. Plant Waxes

Candles can be made from various materials, each bringing its own energy and properties to magickal rituals:

• Beeswax Candles: Traditionally favored in magick due to their natural composition, beeswax candles are reputed to hold and emit a purer energy. They are often chosen for their ability to be infused with specific intentions, vibrations, or energies. Though more expensive and sometimes harder to source, beeswax candles are preferred for their depth and the enhancement they bring to magickal workings.
• Paraffin Candles: As a common and accessible option, paraffin candles are perfectly acceptable in ritual use. While they may not inherently possess the same energetic qualities as beeswax, they do not detract from the effectiveness of magickal practices and are a practical choice for basic lighting needs or when aesthetics are the primary concern.
• Plant-Based Waxes: Alternatives like soy, palm, carnauba, and bayberry waxes offer additional options. Each type of plant wax has unique properties; for example, soy is renewable and burns cleanly, making it a popular choice for environmentally conscious practitioners.

Candle-Making and Infusion of Intent

Creating your own candles can be a deeply enriching experience. The Order of Sen-Taur offers candle-making classes in the fall, where participants learn not only the craft of candle-making but also how to imbue candles with specific magickal intents or energies. This process allows for a personalized touch and aligns the candle’s energy closely with the practitioner’s goals.

Candle Holders and Their Impact

The choice of candle holder can also influence magickal workings. Materials commonly used include:

• Brass: Popular for its ability to conduct energies, brass holders are often used to amplify the candle’s power.
• Wood: Provides a grounding effect and connects the spell or ritual to the earth element.
• Other Materials: Glass, ceramic, and even stone can be selected based on the specific energies or aesthetic qualities they contribute.

Conclusion

In magickal traditions, the choice of candle and holder is not merely practical but is deeply symbolic. Candles illuminate both our physical space and our spiritual journey, acting as beacons of intent and transformation. Whether you choose beeswax for its purity, paraffin for its accessibility, or plant-based waxes for their environmental friendliness, each candle can serve as a powerful tool in magickal practices.

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