Candles have held a special intuitive meaning for centuries. Religions have used candles in their practices. Catholics hold the custom of lighting candles in honor of a favored saint, or for a loved one who is in need of support. The Jewish faith uses menorah candles in ceremonies and prayer.
Stepping away from the religious side, we’ll focus now on the number one use of candles: birthday cakes. There is actually a superstition about how many candles a cake should have. There should be one candle for each year in that person’s age. This will ensure another year of happiness. The candles are lit, a wish is made, and the candles are blown out in one breath.
When the melting wax on a candle forms a handle-like loop, it is called a “coffin handle”, and it is considered bad luck. On the other hand a spark from the wick is a sign that good news is on its way.
A knot in the wick burning with a red glow says that a stranger will visit. A charred wick that stays over the flame is good luck. If you kill a moth that is hovering over your candle it is a good omen or good luck as well.
Candles have been used in many rituals in both religion and metaphysical practices. Wicca uses candles in many spells, sometimes calling out for a specific candle.
Candles are a great symbol of focus and concentration of energy, and many use candles to set intentions, just like with a birthday cake. Of course we also have the romance of the candle with candlelit dinners.
The color of a candle has significance as well:
- White – purity
- Black – negativity
- Red – love, lust, health
- Silver – reflective, lunar
- Brown – earthy, animal related
- Pink – friendship
- Purple – power
- Orange – attraction
- Gold – solar, gain, success
- Yellow – protection
- Green – abundance, growth
- Light blue – patience
- Dark blue – blues or sadness
Estee Taschereau brings new light into the illusions and beliefs we create through her powerful intuitive reading and healing sessions. She is the author of books such as Now Is The Time To Believe and Being Here Now.
