How to Burn Incense Grains!

There are always questions which people are reluctant to ask about, after all it might seem that it is a pretty straightforward and easy thing to do and that everyone should know!   One of those questions which seem to shyly surface every now and then is “how to burn grain incense”.  The following is a reproduction of an article I wrote for avalonia.co.uk and which was subsequently reproduced in a couple of books and in magazines over the years.  I hope that it helps those of you who have been pondering this rather simple, but highly arousing and sublime practice with fear!

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Burning Incence Grains

HOW TO BURN INCENSE GRAINS
(Written by Sorita d’Este for avalonia.co.uk, 1998, updated 2004)

Loose incense grains are frequently used during Wiccan ceremonies, as offerings, for purificatory rites, for consecrations and as a symbolical representation of the element of Air. The grains are placed on charcoal blocks in a fireproof container or censer which is placed on the altar and may sometimes be taken around the circle, especially when performing purifications or blessings. In order to burn loose incense you will need:

” Incense grains (a specially prepared blend, or a resin that can be burned by itself, for example frankincense)

” Charcoal disks

” A heat resistant dish or censer made for the purpose

” You will also need matches or a lighter with which to light the charcoal.

You should first prepare the container in which you will be burning the incense. It is a good idea to place some clean sand or gravel at the base of the container as this will help with heat insulation and will also allow air to circulate more effectively to the burning charcoal, which in turn will allow both the charcoal and incense to burn more evenly. Once you have prepared the container the next step is to light the charcoal block, this is done by holding the edge of the disk in a flame (a lighter or candle flame works well). If you are worried about burning your fingers, use an old pair or tweezers or tongs to hold it with.

Once it ignites you will need to place it in the censer and allow it to ignite properly. Sometimes charcoal can be troublesome and in some instances you may have to relight it, but with most good quality self-igniting charcoal blocks you should be able to see the sparks travelling across the block. Once the charcoal is fully lit, place approx ¼ to ½ teaspoon of incense grains on the block and enjoy! Different types of incense grains and blends burn at a different pace from each other, as a result you will need to keep an eye on it and add more grains as need be.

Common Sense Warnings:

” If you suffer from respiratory problems, or are prone to allergies, it is best to avoid the use of incense in enclosed spaces.

” Do not leave burning incense unattended

” Treat burning charcoal with caution; keep away from flammable objects at all times.

” On occasion a charcoal block may sparkle profusely upon ignition, so take extra care when lighting as the sparks may ignite nearby flammable objects or cause damage to clothing, carpets or upholstery.