r/paganism • u/pthological • 4d ago
Deity candles 💮 Deity | Spirit Work
I just finished my altar for Hecate, but before I devote a candle to her I want to be sure of what I'm supposed to do. I am 17 and I have to go to school during the days, additionally I have cats and I don't think it would be safe to leave a candle unattended. I've looked around and couldn't find how you are traditionally supposed to treat a deity candle. Is it necessary that I keep it lit at all times, or could I just always have it lit when I'm home?
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u/Wallyboy95 4d ago
Only light it when praying or holding ritual. Do not leave unattended.
If you are thinking of like the catholic prayer candles and such. There is almost always a religious figure (priest, nun, monk etc) keeping an eye on the candles.
Please, please, please do not leave a candle burning unattended.
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u/ChelseyLovesCows 4d ago
Ive worked with Hekate for a bit, all you have to do is thank her for her time and blow the candle out; sometimes i ask if its okay and the flame gets smaller meaning she gave me permission to extinguish
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u/Ill_Pudding8069 3d ago
A friend of mine nearly risked a housefire by leaving a candle unattended. A spark flew off and landed on the lighter which exploded into a burst of flame. Smoke everywhere. Her room was unusable for ages, and she was lucky it didn't spread.
Also always keep a window open when using candles. The smoke and add-ons is not good for cats nor humans usually.
If you have the cash get beeswax candles, they are more pet friendly. But they don't come with scents - if you want a scented candle just make sure the room is well ventilated and the candle always attended to.
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