Black

So black candles, anyone? I don't know too many people that use black candles in their Craft. I'm not sure if it's because of the negative connotations associated with them or because they feel that black candles aren't necessary to their magick. Whatever the reason, I have used black candles before, particularly on Samhain. However, it was not to conjure demons or cast curses on anyone.It was to represent the dead.

As for absorbing negativity, I personally use salt. I've never used a black candle for that purpose but it seems pretty interesting to do so. Fortunately, I've never had to banish anything from me or from someone. I've never had anything foul attach itself to me and suppose it has something to do with your vulnerability. I'm not a very vulnerable person although my energiies can get out of whack when I'm upset about things.

When you use the word banishing in a sense that you are banishing negativity from yourself, or feelings, or memories you do not wish to keep, I've  never used a black candle for that either. It appears that black candles can be used for quite a bit of magick although they can be substituted for different materials.

I don't know how many people have heard of the store called A Touch of Magick but it's located near my hometown in Warner Robins, Georgia. I go there sometimes when I need some magickal supplies. They have some really neat stuff in there although it's more expensive than buying off the web. Every time I go in there, they are out of ritual black candles. They have every other color (although low on red as well), but black is always out. Kind of makes me wonder...

Are they using black candles for protection, banishing, and absorbing negativity....or for things much more sinister. We don't all have the same moral compass or code of ethics around here. Just saying.