Runic Magic

Can runes be used to work magic in the place of the props that are normally used like candles? They have meanings and magical natures so they seem like better ways to represent a desire to be filled, than say the color red. Please respond

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Using the candle example you must first think about the exact use of the candle within the ritual. Much of the time the candle just represents the essence of some thing or force, but sometimes the actual act of the candle burning down is part of the symbolic meaning. Such as a candle representing a person or force you are banishing, and the melting down and ultimate destruction of the candle represents them leaving. In those cases you should consider sticking with something that has a comparable nature and symbolism.

In all other cases though, just use the symbol that works best for you. Gods know that I've got strange ways of symbolizing things on my altar, but they've got the right meaning so why should it matter?

for offerings to elementals i use alcemy symbols.

You can't really compare rune magick to a candle. You don't need candles to use the runes. A candle is used as focus, and is a tool that does not hold any magickal property unless you believe it does. Runes on the other hand are symbols and sounds of power. They hold their own magick and meanings that are tapped into through focus. Yes, you can use rune magick and no candles, but it shouldn't be seen as a replacement, it's an entirely different thing.

Be careful when using runes in magick, if you don't have a deep knowledge of their full meaning and power, you could do more harm than good. This is the same for using anything with power not of your own, such as planets and spiritual beings. For instance, you wouldn't just throw a mars symbol on your altar in place of fire/a candle because the power of mars is far more complex than fire alone, and will have influence over your workings that may be undesired. When using a candle we instill our own influence over the meaning of that candle and the energy therein. So it is 100% under our own direction.