or more of its forms, such as the hearth, volcanoes, and
lightning.
Much later in their history, humans developed more
portable forms for using sacred fires. First came the
torch, then the oil lamp and candles. All holy places
were lit by these miniature forms of fire, as were private
home altars. Priests and magicians taught that the flame
of oil lamps and candles represented the spirit's highest
potential and that the smoke carried the worshipper's
prayers and desires into the spiritual realm.
Herbs were either burned as incense or added to the
candles. The herbs not only gave off a pleasant scent,
but also often were chosen for their ability to trigger
altered states that led the priest or magician into a
higher state of consciousness. Accompanied by prayer,
chants, dance, and/or deep concentration, the priests
and magicians learned that they could manifest their
desires. Thus, magick was discovered.
Magick continued to thrive and be accepted as a
viable method for making life better until much later,
when religions declared that magick was not possible
and was only superstitious nonsense. However, these
same religions continued to light their sacred places
with the holy flame in one form or another.
Modern Fire Rituals
Even today, fire rituals are still used in many cultures
and religions around the world. Nearly every religion
uses candles, lamps, or incense to mark their religious
centers and ceremonies.
In Latin America, people still use candles to mark
Halloween. They prepare an altar or a gravesite with
pictures of departed loved ones and light candles that