A - L
AthameAlso known as the black-handled knife. The black-handled knife is simply used for all things magical, such as consecrating of other tools and frequently casting the circle. The reason for the handle being black is simple, black absorbs energy, similar to when you wear a black shirt on a sunny day - it gets hot! This makes black perfect for magical use. The athame is generally seen as a symbol of the God and connected to the element of fire.
BesomAlso called simply the broom, the broom is not used for flying, we have airplanes for that. The broom is used to cleanse the space used for ritual. The act of sweeping clears the space of negative energies. The broom represents the union of male and female energies.
BollineThe bolline, also known as the white-handled knife, is responsible for any cutting during magic. Traditionally, a bolline is a curved blade knife, similar to a small sickle. For instance it is normally used when harvesting magical herbs or plants. Also, if anything needs to be cut during a ritual, such as food, thread, or anything else the bolline is often utilized. It is often associated with the Goddess.
Book of ShadowsA complicated piece of equipment, the Book of Shadows is the name that many witches use to refer to a book which holds a collection of rituals, spells, correspondence tables, and other material pertinent to spellcasting and life as a witch. It may come in many different formats, even going so far as to exist entirely on a computer, but many witches find it an important ritual tool for guiding and assisting in magic.
Book of MirrorsThough this book is known by many names, or possibly no name at all, a Book of Mirrors is a witches journal. It usually contains thoughts about the nature of deity, magic, the craft, and other private thoughts that would not belong in the Book of Shadows. It is known as a Book of Mirrors because it is the reflection of the witch who uses it, and can be used as a tool for meditation or for taking basic study of witchcraft to the next level of sophistication. It can also be used for recording dreams for interpretation or recording the outcomes of meditations or astral travelings.
CandlesCandles are just another tool used by witches and magic users the world 'round. They are used as energy focal points and releasers. Many spells require candles, both for their connection to fire and to air, but for their strength, ability to control, and the fact that almost all people can access candles. Candles are typically used in spell work based on the color and/or shape of the candle. Some witches prefer to use unscented candles and/or candles made of natural materials in order to be as pure and free of the maker's intention as possible. Some witches also prefer to make their own candles for this reason.
CauldronThe cauldron is sometimes used as a censer, a vessel in which incense is burned. Sometimes the cauldron is also used for brewing up magical beverages or brews. They can range in size from very large (big enough to fit a person in) to ones that can fit in the palm of the hand. The cauldron is generally associated with the Universal Spirit. The cauldron can be looked at to represent the womb of the universe from which all things come from. The cauldron is generally associated with the element of water. It's important to note that to be a cauldron, the top opening must be wider than the bottom, and it must sit upon three legs. Anything else is simply a pot.
ChaliceThe chalice is often used to hold ceremonial beverages, such as wine or juice. The chalice is also used during the part of the ritual when Wiccans partake of cakes and wine, or cakes and ale. The chalice is generally seen as a symbol of the Goddess, and the element of water. Because it represents the element of water, it may also be used on the altar and/or as the symbol of the west.
Crystals & GemstonesMany different stones and crystals are used during spell casting, for many different reasons. They are most often associated with the element of earth and the northern direction, and can be used as symbols of the goddess.
HerbsHerbs of many kinds are used during spellcraft in many different ways. Some are ingested, some are displayed, some are burnt, some are used for ornamentation, some are crushed into pastes or slurries, and some are put in magical bags (gris-gris or mojo bags).
Incense Incense is intimately connected to the element of air, and is often offered as a sacrifice to the elemental rulers. Also, incense has typically been used as a purifier, or cleanser of negative energies. It can be used in sticks, powder form, cones, whatever is easiest. As with candles, incense is often used based on a specific need.
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