Lychnomancy is divination from the flames of three identical candles set in a triangle. It is a branch of Pyromancy.
Pronunciation: LIK-no-man-see
Also known as: Lamp Divination, Candle Flame Divination
Definition
Lychnomancy is an ancient form of pyromancy—divination by fire—in which the light, movement, and vitality of three candle flames are read as messages from the unseen. Practised since antiquity, it is both a spiritual art and a ritual of inner illumination, revealing omens, changes, and influences through the dance of living fire.
Etymology
The term comes from the Greek lykhnos (λύχνος), meaning “lamp,” and manteia (μαντεία), “divination” or “prophecy.” It literally signifies “divination by lamplight.”
Historical Background
Lychnomancy originated in the Mediterranean mystery traditions, particularly among the Greeks and Romans, where flame and shadow were believed to carry divine intelligence. The household lamp was a sacred medium — a quiet oracle for the domestic priestess, who invoked household spirits, ancestors, or protective deities through candlelight.
During the Renaissance, magicians and scholars of natural philosophy revived the practice, often performing Lychnomancy within geometric configurations such as the triangle, pentacle, or circle of invocation. The triangle, in particular, was seen as the perfect vessel for spiritual revelation — representing the trinity of manifestation: Spirit, Mind, and Matter.
Ritual of Lychnomancy
You will need:
- Three identical candles (preferably white, symbolising purity and illumination)
- Three identical holders
- A draftless room or enclosed chamber
- A moment of quiet intention
Preparation:
- Cleanse the space with incense, prayer, or a short meditation.
- Arrange the three candles on a flat surface in the shape of an equilateral triangle, each point facing one of the four directions (traditionally north is left open to symbolise mystery).
- Extinguish all other lights in the room. Allow only moonlight or natural darkness to remain.
- With calm focus, light all three candles from the same match or taper, symbolising unity of purpose.
Invocation:
Stand before the triangle of flames. Centre yourself with slow breathing. Then say quietly:
“By the light of fire, I seek what is hidden.
By the flame, I call forth truth.
By the triad of light, let wisdom be revealed.”
As you speak, observe the flames. Their movements will become your language of insight.
Interpretation of the Flames
| Flame Behaviour | Divinatory Meaning |
|---|---|
| One candle burns brighter than the others | A sign of success, favour, or divine approval. The path ahead is blessed. |
| A bright glowing tip on the wick | Good fortune and rising luck—though brief if the glow fades quickly. |
| Flame sways from side to side | Movement, travel, or imminent change. |
| Flame twists or spirals | Hidden enemies or secret intrigues are at work. Remain alert. |
| Flame rises and falls erratically | Instability or danger approaches; caution is advised. |
| Flame sputters or crackles | Conflict, gossip, or emotional disturbance may soon arise. |
| A candle extinguishes without cause | Loss or tragedy connected to the question or querent. |
| Flames burn steadily and evenly | Peace, clarity, and divine balance. |
Allow the flames to burn naturally after the reading — snuffing them prematurely may interrupt the energy of the ritual.
Spiritual Significance
The threefold flame symbolises the triune nature of existence — the balance of body, soul, and spirit; or past, present, and future. In watching them, the practitioner aligns with the rhythm of creation itself: the steady pulse of divine energy expressed in light.
Lychnomancy is not merely a fortune-telling art; it is a meditative dialogue with fire — an opportunity to witness one’s own spiritual reflection in the living light. The flame becomes a mirror to consciousness, revealing not only omens but also the subtle dance between will and destiny.
Practical Guidance
Perform Lychnomancy on Sundays or Mondays, days ruled by the Sun and Moon, when illumination and intuition are strongest. Avoid performing it during strong winds or storms unless seeking insight into turmoil or conflict.
To close the rite, thank the light, then say softly:
“The fire speaks, the fire rests,
Its light remains within my chest.”
Let the candles burn down naturally, and keep a written record of your observations and outcomes in your Book of Shadows or spiritual journal.
SEE ALSO:
- Lampadomancy – Divination by oil lamps or wicks.
- Pyromancy – Divination by fire and flame.
- Ceraunoscopy – Divination by thunder and lightning.
- Capnomancy – Divination by smoke.
- Sortileges
- Augury
- Divinations by Observation
- Divinations