A censer is a vessel, usually brass in which incense can be burned. It corresponds to the elements of air and fire, for obvious reasons. Its directions are east and south. A censer may be simple or elaborate, and is usually kept on the altar. Middle Eastern shops and catholic religious stores sell covered censers that come with chains so they can be swung back and forth. These are dramatic when used in rituals.

Put some sand or salt in the bottom of the censer. Heat lumps of charcoal until they are red hot, then use tongs to drop a few of them into the censer. Sprinkle solid incense, dried herbs, gum resins or seeds on them. Seeds tend to pop, so covered censers are safest. The bottom of the censer my get very hot, even with the sand or salt, so place it on a surface that is not likely to burn.

Censers are also good for burning incense cones. Joss sticks can be safely burned stuck into the earth of a planter or in ceramic, metal or wooden holders made for this purpose. Incense is used for.

• Fumigating and smudging.
• Purifying.
• Raising power.
• Achieving trance states.
• Banishing evil spirits.
• Encouraging and welcoming good spirits.