Tools Of A Witch Part 2

The first part of this series can be found Part 1
A witch usually has an alter, there are tools that are almost always on the alter.

Altar

In religious ceremonies the altar is the most sacred spot. Tools displayed on the altar depending on the witch’s tradition. Tools the witch will need for that particular ritual are on altar. Seasonal objects can decorate the altar along with images of totem animals, familiars and deities. A goblet, sword or knife, a bowl of salt and another with water, candles and figures of the God and Goddess.

Altar Candles
Some solitaries have one candle their altar candle. Most covens have two candles: God and Goddess candles. Usually altar candles are white but can be other colors according to season or type of magic being worked.

Altar Cloth
A cloth to cover the altar laid before the tools. Most cloths are white. Some witches have a lot of cloths, of various colors according to the season. Not all witches use an altar cloth.

Athamé
A double edged blade used to cut strings or other tools. Also used to carve symbols into candles during candle magic. Not used for cutting physical objects. Used for casing circles and “cutting.” Can be used in place of sword or wand.

Bell
The ringing of bells was thought to send away evil spirits. Has been used for thousands of years. Bells are hung around the neck of cattle and other domestic animals for this purpose. Bells were also hung from clothing for this same reason. A bell on a shop door isn’t to notify the shopkeeper of a costumer but to keep evil out of the shop.

Censer Thurible
Holds incense and dispenses smoke.

Chalice
Another name for the ritual goblet.

Tools Of A Witch Part 1

There are a few objects or tools that are as stereotypical as the flying witch.

Brooms

How could a witch fly if she doesn’t have broom? True witches don’t fly but they do love their brooms. The broom is used to clean. Sweeping the physical dirt from a witches’ work space. It’s also used to sweep any negative energy from a witch’s space.

Cauldron
“Double double toil and trouble; fire burn and cauldron bubble.”
A witch or witches standing around a large boiling cauldron tossing in eyes of newt and all sorts of strange named ingredients is partially true. Witches use cauldrons at times to create brews and potions. Other times to burn spells. Most of the time a cauldron is used to burn incense during rituals.

Wand
Pieces of wood usually a tree branch used for directing power. May be decorated with symbols, crystals, and or ribbons. Usually every witch has one.

Salt
Always on the altar. It represents life and one or both elements of earth and or water. Also used to mark circle.

Water
Always on the Altar. It represents spirit and the element of water. Used in consecration process.