candle

Dreaming Lens: Were you lighting a candle or was it lit? Was this the only source of light? Were there many candles, as on a birthday cake? What color was the candle or its light? What was the intended mood produced by the candlelight: romantic, spiritual, or celebratory? Did you have a resource for lighting the candle? Was the candle posing the danger of starting a fire?

Personal Focus: When we light a candle, we are committing an act of creation. Fire has an enormous amount of power. When it is restrained in such a benevolent and gentle manner, it symbolizes the dominion that human beings can have over the elements to bring light to a dark place.

There is a magical glow to candlelight, perhaps even more so in modern times, because of how subtle it is compared to artificial light. Lighting a candle is a mainstay in various rituals that symbolize the beginning of something sacred, as if it represents the point of contact with our Creator. In this way, lighting a candle can be an indication of the beginning of some important event, phase, or relationship in life. The amount, color, quality, and other information from the Dreaming Lens will provide you with an accurate interpretation.

The connection of candlelight to romance is crucial and could indicate the desire or readiness for love and intimacy. Conversely, blowing a candle out might mean the end of such a phase. Dream candles might also symbolize creative impulses. The association of candles on a cake and birthdays could reflect a moment of taking stock of where you are in your life at this time. Candles can easily start a destructive fire, so consider the potential for danger if the flame you are burning should get out of control.

The structure of a candle itself represents the spiritual perspective to creativity and change. The candle is the idea you are having, while the flame is the power of focusing your intention, and the wax that melts and burns away is the transformation that results.

Illumination, understanding, or enlightenment.

The quest to understand spiritual matters.

The soul. As the Bible says, “let your light so shine among men.”

A candle being lit represents a new beginning, whereas an extinguished candle symbolizes the passing of the old.

Fear of an early death or growing old (e.g., having your candle “snuffed out”).

Spiritual presences.

A winding sheet or blue flame on the candle, according to folklore, speaks of ghostly company. This might be a departed loved one, an angel, or even your Higher Self trying to communicate (see Ghost).

Energy levels. Are you burning the candle at both ends?

Hope and protection. In the Middle Ages candles were not only a source of light, but were placed near beds to safeguard the sleeper from wandering spirits.

Ideas or ideals. Suddenly experiencing comprehension (having the proverbial “light bulb” go on).

An alternative phallic symbol. Pagan folk dances often included candle jumping for fertility.

A clear burning flame on a candle indicates the presence of devoted friends, or constancy’ in yourself.

Vision: A brighdy burning candle is a promise: in future things will turn out the way you have hoped. It could also mean an invitation to a party.

The flame of the candle flickering or giving off smoke: the state of your health is not stable.

A candle burning quietly and steadily is a sign of peace, prayer, contemplation, and a challenge to look within. Watching the flame of a candle go out: you may suddenly be informed of the illness or death of a person close to you, or it could mean that a dose friendship is coming to an end.

Depth Psychology: The candle is a phallic symbol. Is there a flame of passion burning within you for another person? The candle also gives us light and warmth and expresses your desire for greater understanding, enlightenment, or wisdom.

See Light.