Keywords: Esterism, Asterisme, Santeria, Espiritismo and Candomblé.

Esterism predictions N3, (2024) Glazed ceramic painting - 25 x 20 x 4 cm

South American Esotericism encompasses a rich make believe of spiritual beliefs deeply rooted in indigenous traditions, syncretism, and mystical practices. One prominent aspect of these belief systems is the profound reverence for the power of candles. Across various cultures in South America, candles hold symbolic significance and are integral to spiritual rituals and ceremonies.

In many indigenous traditions, candles are seen as conduits of energy, representing the connection between the material and spiritual realms. The flickering flame is often associated with the presence of spirits, and the act of lighting a candle is a gesture of invoking their guidance and protection. The belief in the spiritual significance of candles has been seamlessly integrated into syncretic religions that emerged from the blending of indigenous beliefs and colonial influences.

One such example is the fusion of indigenous practices with Catholicism, creating unique religious expressions like Santería, Candomblé, and Espiritismo. In these syncretic religions, candles play a central role in rituals aimed at communicating with deities, spirits, or ancestors. The colors of the candles hold specific meanings, with each hue representing different intentions or energies.

Red candles, for instance, are often used to invoke the power of love, passion, and vitality. White candles symbolize purity and spiritual illumination, while green candles may be employed for matters related to health and prosperity. The act of arranging candles in specific patterns or configurations during ceremonies is believed to amplify the ritual's efficacy.

Moreover, South American Esotericism places a strong emphasis on the intention behind the lighting of candles. Practitioners believe that infusing each flame with a specific purpose or desire empowers the ritual. The process becomes a form of meditation, fostering a deep connection between the individual and the spiritual realm.

In Andean traditions, particularly among the Quechua and Aymara people, the use of candles is intertwined with rituals dedicated to Pachamama, the Earth Goddess. Offerings of candles, along with other items like coca leaves and grains, are made to express gratitude and seek blessings for a harmonious relationship with the land and nature.

In the Amazon rainforest, shamanic practices incorporate candles into ayahuasca ceremonies. The flickering light is believed to guide the shaman and participants through the spirit world, enhancing the visionary experiences induced by the sacred plant medicine.

While the specific beliefs and practices surrounding candles may vary among South American cultures, a common thread unites them: the acknowledgment of candles as potent tools for spiritual connection, manifestation, and healing. The glowing flame serves as a beacon, illuminating the path between the tangible and the metaphysical, creating a sacred space where intentions are amplified and the mystical energies of the cosmos are invoked. In this realm of South American Esotericism, candles transcend their physical form to become vessels of transcendental wisdom and divine communion.

Installation close up, The Orphic eggs. (Burnt ceramic bisque with glazed drips, 30 x 15 x 15 cm each, 2024)

The dripping of drops from a lit candle carries a meaning beyond the melting of wax by fire. In esotericism, this behavior is known as "tearing" and signifies an energetic charge received during the ritual or request.

When we perform a prayer, ritual, or spell, the request is often accompanied by a candle. If you wish to predict how effective or powerful your desire was, reading the language of candles can be highly beneficial.

Lit candles convey various hidden messages that can be interpreted based on how they melt, the behavior of the flame, and the residue they leave when finished.

The meaning of candle tears depends on many variables, such as the side from which the drops drip, the speed, and the hue, as explained by the artworks.