Ritual Tools

Ritual tools vary between traditions. They can range from a huge collection of specially consecrated devices to a single item temporarily blessed. Most pagans will personalize, cleanse and consecrate each of these before using them for the first time. Many also cleanse their tools before and/or after each ritual or spell. While there may not be a single "kit" for pagans, some of the more commonly used tools are described below:

The Altar

The altar is where the other Ritual Tools are kept and used. It is usually created on a table or other elevated surface. It is the act of consecrating this surface that makes it an altar.

The Athame

The athame is a magical knife. It can be made from either wood or metal, sharpened or dull; traditions vary. It is usually black handled, but this is not strictly necessary; again, traditions vary. The athame is used for channeling energy, and for ritual cutting (of cords) and carving (usually on candles).

The Wand

The wand is a length of wood, bone, metal, crystal, or some combination thereof. It is most often made of willow or oak. The wand, like the athame, is used for channeling magical energy.

Book of Shadows

A Book of Shadows is a personal collection of spells and rituals. This can occasionally be purchased, but is most often made by the individual or coven that uses it.

Book of Mirrors

A Book of Mirrors is a private journal used to record your personal thoughts and reactions to rituals and spells. Unlike other tools, the Book of Mirrors should be used and added to daily.

The Chalice

The Chalice (or Goblet, or Cup) is just that: a Chalice. It is used to hold water or wine in some rituals. It is also used as a Goddess symbol in some rituals, in particular the Great Rite.

The Cauldron

The Cauldron is a round-bellied pot on three legs. It is usually made of cast iron, although aluminum and copper versions are available.

The Pentacle

The Pentacle is a flat disk, usually inscribed with a pentagram, that is used as a focal point for spells and rituals. Most uses of the other Ritual Tools take place over the pentacle.

Bell

The bell is rung to purify the area. It should be a musical or resonant bell that doesn't grate on the nerves (no bicycle bells).

Besom

The Besom, or Witch's Broom, is used to cleanse the ritual area before starting. It is also used in some rituals, including Handfasting.

Boline

The Boline is a working knife used for practical tasks such as chopping herbs. In some traditions, this is the only knife used for carving or cutting (the athame may not be used).

Sword

The sword is a symbol of power and command. It is not often used in most pagan traditions. It is more frequently used in ceremonial magic.

Staff

The staff is simply a larger version of the wand. Some traditions (including Pecti-Wicca) use this instead the wand as the primary of their Ritual Tools.

Mortar and Pestle

The mortar and pestle are used to grind and mix herbs. They are not usually kept on the altar, but are used only when needed for particular rituals.

Incense & Incense Burner

Incense is used for cleansing, as a symbol for fire and/or air, and for specific purposes based on the particular type of incense chosen. Self-burning incense can be purchased as sticks, cones or powder. You can also use charcoal to burn raw incense herbs or resins. Each type of incense requires a different type of burner.

One particular use of incense is for smudging. Smudging is generally done with fresh herbs rather than stick, cone, or powder incense.The why and how of smudging and specific magical herbs for smudging are discussed on their own pages.

Candles & Holders

Candles come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes and colors. They can be used to represent God/desses, Elements or particular magical energies. When using candles, it is important to have candle holders that fit the size and style of candle you are using.

Crystals

Like incense and candles, crystals are used for a wide variety of purposes in spells and rituals. The most common use is to boost specific magical energies.

Ritual Robes

Ritual robes are what pagans wear during rituals (if they aren't sky-clad). Some traditions have strict rule about what ritual robes may look like or be made from. It is important to note, however, that not all Ritual Robes are actual robes; my ritual robes consist of a pair of sweat pants and a black cotton t-shirt. The important thing is that they are comfortable for you and that they are used only for ritual.

Other Altarpieces

In addition to the Ritual Tools above, many Pagans include representations of their God and Goddess and the Four Elements on their Altars. This can be done using candles, statues, pictures, or other symbols.

Return from Ritual Tools to The Urban Pagan Homepage