By Janelle Austin
Fire has long been a natural and common element among the mundane and the religious, sacred and magical- to honor our ancestors, celebrate holidays, and Conjure- it has the power to destroy and protect life. Using candles in prayer and setting intentions is a powerful and straightforward tool; here is an easy way to get started.
When using candles in Conjure, you can purchase pre-colored candles, each color representing a different meaning. Red Candles help with rooting, grounding, and home; Orange focuses on sexual and reproductive matters, while Yellow is around your intuition and believing in yourself. Burning a green candle supports rituals for money, black aids in protection, and white candles help all-purpose intentions.
“Anointing” and “dressing candles” are commonly used in Hoodoo. It adds extra power to your intentions by energizing the candles with carved symbols, herbs, and herb-infused oils. In addition to focused intention, the care and process of growing or gathering ingredients from mother earth and the sea will fully charge your candles to accommodate the intent. Use sage or incense to clear the container, Before placing elements in a sterilized bottle with a cork or non-reactive cap. Shake the ingredients before use.
To apply the dressing to your specific candle color:
- Put some dressing oil on your hands.
- Wrap your hands around the candle, stroke upwards and then downwards, covering the entire candle.
- Scribe any symbols into the candle at this time.
Depending on the intent behind the burning, wax from melted candles should be disposed of carefully. Remember to use candle safety – don’t leave your candle burning unattended, burn on a tempered or stone surface, and away from all flammables.