Hoodoo, Rootwork, Conjure
Spell candles are used in reference to candle magic in hoodoo. Spell candles perform similar function to how voodoo dolls are used. You use a particular color candle for a specific outcome or the desired intentions placed into each candle. The candle by itself will not cause specific things to happen, but when the person performing the spell visualizes the outcome while lighting the desired candle, they can achieve the results they are looking for.
Hoodoo has a rich tradition of
burning and dressing candles. Fire magic is indeed a very important part
of the hoodoo system so it definitely deserves a separate article since
candle burning in the African-American hoodoo tradition has undergone
considerable evolution during the 20th century.
There is a large variety of candles in Hoodoo human shaped
candles, cross shaped candles, candles of different colors, candles in
glass (glass encased), catholic novena candles and similar .
Here is an example of what some of the colors mean and what their intentions are.
- Black is associated with protection from evil spirits, loss, banishment. If you are trying to protect yourself against negative spirits then you would use a black spell candle. The black candles intention is to banish or repel things but can also be used for evil and should be used with caution.
- Green is associated with money, luck, and fertility. If your desired outcome is prosperity in life or to receive great things then a green spell candle would be what you would need.
- White is associated with blessings, purification and protection. The white spell candle is to be used when the desired outcome is cleanliness and purity of another or ones self.
- Red is the color of passion, dominance, power, sex and lust.
Now, just because you buy a specific color candle does not mean its intent is automatic or that it is a spell candle. The person using the candle has to desire, believe and visualize the outcome. Once the practitioner has lit the candle they will perform a chant while visualizing the desired outcome. The particular spell candles are pre-spelled with the desired outcome so not just any candle will do. Often times the person knows what particular color and spell they are looking to cast, but for those that practice magic regularly they would benefit from a candle set with a variety of spell candles available.
