Published: April 3, 2024 at 9:39:32 PM

What Does a Candle Flame Mean?

Guide: How to Interpret a Candle Flame

Candle reading is an ancient form of divination still practiced today.

Correctly interpreting the flame can help you achieve greater success in manifesting your intention. The flame shows whether the Higher Powers hear you, whether your spiritual work is moving in the right direction, and whether the ritual will bear fruit. The flame can answer any question you have.

Dancing Flame

If the flame flickers back and forth, it means it holds great power. Your ritual may work, but there will be obstacles.

A dancing flame indicates resistance: the higher it leaps, the greater the resistance and challenges you’ll face.

Jumping Flame

A jumping flame is a sign of fluctuation. Your energy, like the flame, is unpredictable and might go against your intention. Be careful before you cast a spell, as it may not work out the way you want.

Weak Flame

A small, low flame can indicate a lack of energy. This happens when spirits signal you to be patient and reflect.

A weak flame also means there are obstacles on your path — your intention is encountering complications.

If the flame is weak but steady — you will still succeed, but it will take longer than expected.

A flickering or pulsating low flame is a message that your intention or spell is flawed or the timing is off.

Note: Another reason for a weak flame can be a wick that is too short or oil (if you anointed the candle and the oil got on the wick, it can interfere with burning).

High Flame

A high, steady flame is a sign of your confidence. Your power is at its peak and the spell will reflect that. Such a flame is a sign from the spirits telling you that you can achieve whatever you want.

Flickering Flame

A flickering flame can mean a spirit or guide is nearby, trying to send you a message:

Flickering to the North — the reason is physical, not spiritual.
Flickering to the South — your intention is surrounded by strong physical energy.
Flickering to the East — the mental part of your spell has activated.
Flickering to the West — it reflects strong emotions that are part of your work.

Another meaning: a flickering flame reminds you of the ebb and flow of life’s uncertainties. It’s time to adapt and find stability in chaos.

Crackling Flame

A flame that crackles or hisses can indicate a spiritual disagreement. For example, if you asked spirits a question, this reaction means no.

Crackling can also signal problems in your social circle. Take time to reflect on your connections and ask the spirits for guidance.

Steady Flame

A steady flame is a positive sign. Everything is going according to plan. The steadier the flame, the more likely your spell will succeed.

Flame Goes Out

If your candle keeps going out, it may mean you’re running out of energy. The spirit world hints that it’s time to slow down. Take time to recharge and return to your ritual later.

If the flame suddenly goes out on its own, it may mean the spirits are showing you that the ritual is complete and your request has been heard.

Exceptionally Bright Flame

An unusually bright flame appears when spirits are trying to catch your intention. Perhaps you spoke a strong spell or asked a clear question. The spirits want you to know they hear you.

Heart-Shaped Flame

If the flame takes the shape of a heart, someone you love is probably thinking of you — a friend far away or a family member in the spirit world.

Double Flame

A double flame usually indicates two different energies. It can be a sign of a spirit splitting or a source of energy dividing.

Some believe a candle burning with two flames means two spirits are present.

Smoke

In spiritual practice, smoke from a candle means the presence of Air energy. Air is the element of communication, intellect, and creativity. Smoke may mean you are looking at things from the wrong perspective.

Black smoke — a sign of negative energy and failure.
White smoke — a sign of positive energy and good luck.

Flame Colors

Blue flame — means a spiritual entity (spirit, angel, fairy, demon, etc.) is nearby.
Red or yellow flame — means the flame is fueled by your emotions (passion, anger, grief, etc.). This is a sign that the energy is strong and unpredictable, which may affect your spell’s result.
White flame — an excellent sign. It indicates peace, prosperity, and healing.
Black flame — points to negative energy or evil spirits.

Strong Burning Candle

If you light a candle and its flame grows higher and higher — it means you are surrounded by positive energy. A strong flame is a good sign and can be interpreted differently depending on your intention or spell.

Fast-Burning Candle

Uneven fast burn: if one side melts faster than the other, it means your spell wasn’t grounded properly before you spoke it. You need to say it again. If the second attempt still burns unevenly and quickly — stop and repeat the spell later.

Even fast burn: if the candle burns faster than usual but evenly — it’s a good sign (as long as there is no crackling or hissing). If you see the candle getting out of control, it may mean something is wrong in your ritual. Stop and repeat the spell, paying attention to every step to make sure it’s correct. If the second attempt burns evenly and quickly — the spell is successful.

Before You Read a Candle Flame

Check there are no drafts, fans, or air conditioners. (Any external elements can affect how your candle burns.)
Make sure the candle wick is not too long. (A long wick can cause black smoke — trim it slightly before lighting.)
Be clear about your intention. (Ask yourself: “What do I want from this candle?”)
Meditate on your intention while the candle burns.

Use this knowledge for good!

Author: Kuli Hanna

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