Ritual Tools Basics

Here is a list of many Wiccan ritual items. This list is by no means complete, and ritual tools are individual to the Wiccan. Each ritual tool is assigned an element. It is important to have all the elements represented on your altar, as well as a representation of the Goddess and the God, and the pentacle represents Spirit. Here is a site explaining altar items, http://bit.ly/hUDCFD

Pentacle (Spirit) The pentacle has the five points of a star, with a circle surrounding it.

Altar (Spirit) The platform which holds the ritual items

Altar cloth The cloth that adorns the altar, could be in any design you choose that holds meaning to you.

Wand (Air) The item that is usually made of the branch of a fruit tree, is usually used in Wiccan ritual to create sacred space and calling the quarters.

Athame (Fire) A ritual knife, with a double-edged blade and a black handle. It can also direct energy within the circle, can also be used to create the circle. A boline, a dagger with a white handle, can be used to cut herbs.

Goddess and God representation (Spirit) Usually represented by a gold and silver candle, set side by side on the altar. It can also be a representation of your pantheon. Many witchcraft shops also offer candles in the shape of a male and female that are also used. Color can depend upon the ritual.

Chalice (Water) A special ritual cup, used in the Cakes and Ale portion of ritual, usually holding wine specific to that ritual.

Incense (Fire/Air) Used to smudge the ritual space, to cleanse it of negative energy.

Candles (Fire) Placed on the altar, and also can be placed at the North, East, West, and South portions of the circle, to represent the different elements. Color can be white, or the colors of the elements they represent.

Water (Water) Used to sprinkle around the ritual area to create sacred space.

Bell (Air) Used to signify the beginning, and sometimes end, of a ritual. Disperses negative energy when rung.

The descriptions here are what I have learned. If you know of a different element that something belongs to, or a different ritual item, you can name it in the comments below.

As always, Blessed Be! More to come soon!