Ritual Tools

By: Psyche

Ritual Tools are used for a varity of reasons. They are a focus for consentration and visualization. You can imagine a flow of power coming form a wand. The symbolic meaning is deeply imprinted on the mind. Looking at them and using them helps visualization and to focus the state of mind.

Wand

The wand is used to conjure and direct energy. It is associated with South and Fire. Traditionally the length of the users arm; from the tip of the pracitioner's middle finger to elbow, preferably made from fallen wood.

Candle

The candle is connected to the South and Fire. It use(s) depends on the working being preformed.

Athame

A black handled knife which is blunt and rarely used to cut anything. It's uses are similar to the wand as a focus point for directing energy. The athame is associated with East and Air.

Incense

Associated with Air. It's scent and uses depend on the working being preformed.

Stones

Placed in working area. They symbolizse Earth and North. Uses and types vary.

Cauldron

Associated with Water and West. A symbol of the womb, representing the female ability to contain and nurture. Also used to make brews, it can be filled with water and used for scrying. It is usually three legged (representing the Triple Goddess in Wiccan and some (neo-)pagan traditions).

Chalice

The chalice is linked with West and Water.

Bolline

Used for cutting herbs and other practical purposes. Ususally a white handled knife.

Besome

A broomstick usually used for ritually cleansing the working area.

Ritual Workbook/Book of Shadows

A Book of Shadows is a book of the philosophy of ritual, and perhaps rituals themselves.

Drum/Whistle

These are used to make music during certain cermonies and rituals. Often used to induce a trance state.

Mirror

Used for scrying, is usually black-backed.

Necklace

This is made on, or for Initation day in some Wiccan covens. They are used in some rituals, worn often; during every Esbat for pertection and power. Also can be ritual amulets, etc.

Bowl of Water

Placed on the altar to represent the Water Element. Often used for scrying.

Bowl of Salt

For protection, also sprinkled around the circle to purify it.

Five Candles

These are to acknowledge the five Elements; Earth, Air, Fire, Water and Spirit/Akasha/Aether. Sometimes they are all white, others prefer to have them colour coded to the specific Elements they represent (this differs system to system).