In magic, fire is used commonly, but I don’t have to tell you all that. But it’s something that is used very often, from candles and incense. The south is represented by fire, usually, on an altar. Many altars have candles, incense holders. Common spells use candles and usually you need to light those. Many Candle Magic spells I’ve used ask for the candle to burn the whole time.
But, what if you can’t have an open flame for any of these?? What does one do??
If you can take your candle spell outside, I would suggest that. But that is not always an option.
I am going to say this a lot, and I’m sorry, but intent is the most important part of any spell. If you have the option for fire and if it helps you focus, then do what makes you happy and comfortable.
So you can’t light your candle, you can still carve into it, a name, sigils, what have you… then…
Download a responsive candle app For iPhone or for Droid , light that app up and blow out when you need to extinguish the flame.
Can’t buy candles for the spells? Write your needed stuff on a piece of paper and do the same.
What if you need altar candles? Have the candles and don’t light them. Or… electric candles. They come in so many cool versions now. Timed ones, ones where you can change the color, remote controlled, tall, short, thick… It’s still light. Looks like a candle.
What about incense? There are many reasons not being able to use incense. Allergies, an open flame, your parents might think you smoke pot. (When I was a teenager I tried to have incense and that was the first question they asked me. Yeah, I was smoking pot, but that’s not why I wanted it.) If open flames are the problem (like in dorm rooms) the meaning of the incense should still mean the same even not being lit.
If it’s the scent that’s important, try using a hot cup of tea of similar herbs. The movement of the steam coming out of the cup is similar in the smoke from incense. The representation is still there.
Hell, one of those room scent things can be a stand in. Which this and the electric lights also help you hide your witchcraft from non approving parents. It’s decoration to them.
Some other possibilities… gems. Gems are always a good stand in if you have them (no matter how small, even if its a gem in a piece of jewelry)
Rubies and amber are gems that represent fire and can also represent fire on your alter.
You know what I use the most? A cup of tea. It’s warm. There is steam. It’s fragrant. Easy to hide (it’s a beverage!) Easy to get rid of. (drank it all!) Also, there is something very magical about tea, I think you would agree.
Witchcraft 