The Tools

Athame - The athame or dagger represents power and is ritually symbolic of masculinity. It is useful for circle casting, consecration, the marrying of potions, purification of wine, and more. The standard athame is seven to nine inches in length with a double-edged blade and black wooden handle. You should carve personal runes or symbols in the handle.

Chalice - The female aspect of your altar. Traditionally the chalice is made of silver to honor the Moon Goddess but earthenware, brass, and copper may be used. Large and heavy is ideal. Strive for a goblet six to eight inches high with a cup diameter of three to five inches.

Wand - Your wand should be cut from wood or the branch of a tree during the waxing of the moon. You may cut it as thick or thin as you wish as long as it feels good in your hand. The wand was originally the introduction and representation of air for the altar. It is often used as the instrument of invested force. The carving of your own runes and symbols will increase its power.

Pentacle - The pentacle is the symbol of material and mundane matters. It is the five-pointed star signifying humanity (a man standing with legs spread and arms straight out) while the circle, with no beginning and no end, represents infinity. It is symbolic of Magick, the power of the spirit over the elements of creation. Predominant altar use of the pentacle is a grounding with the material world.

Thurible - It is in the thurible that you will burn altar incense and occasional burnt offerings. For the latter purpose you will need a thurible large enough to hold shreds of paper, clippings, herbs, etc. Some prefer using a cauldron and having a chained censer for the incense. Other ideas for thuribles are small chafing dishes, copper or bronze pots, anything that withstands heat.

 

Salt and Water Bowls - Here you bring the elements of earth and water to your altar. You will need two small bowls of like size. They may be copper or silver, earthenware or clay, as long as they are stable enough not to tip. Sea salt is placed in one bowl, water in the other.

Candles - The light of the altar. You will need two tall candle holders casting enough light to read and work by. The color of the candles will affect your work. See Candle Magick.

The Altar

Creating Sacred Space described a simple and stationary altar, a permanent location for ritual or meditation. It is sometimes more practical to have a portable altar and this is easily achieved with any movable box or case large enough to hold your instruments. Carry two cloths in the case: one that is wrapped around and protecting your instruments and the other to use as a drape for the box. A white cloth drape is sufficient for the altar. Ritual tools should be wrapped in thick velvet. Make the tools "blanket" yourself. All you need now is enough room for a three to five foot circle, larger if you're working in group.

An ancient trick for drawing a perfect outdoor circle is to tie about five feet of string to a metal stake or strong stick, making sure the knot is loose. Anchor the stick in the ground or have someone hold it. Now pull the string taut and go round in a circle while marking the line with chalk or another stick. Place your altar where you want it within the circle then go about casting a proper circle using the chalk or stick line as a guide. Sea salt is commonly used. Remember that if a section of your circle is smeared or broken, then recast it. Do not continue ritual or magick unless your circle is intact.

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