When people think of Magic tools they usually think of a intricately etched ritual blade. A flat disc with a pentagram finely inlaid into the professionally stained wood.

I do think of these things when I think of Witchcraft tools but I prefer think of something else. Myself,  I am the  ultimate magical tool and it is myself who can enforce his/her will on the universe to create positive change. Concentration, focus and visualisation are all that is really needed to perform magic. Not props as mentioned above. Although in saying that, I do own the basic tools for magic. I have also discussed the origins of these tools elsewhere on the site but here I will be discussing the actual use of such instruments.

The Five Basic Tools of Magic

The Wand A Ritual tool made of wood used to invoke Deity, Elements and Spirits such as The Mighty Ones when calling the Magic Circles' Quarters (see circle casting). The invoking pentagrams are traced in the air with the Wand. The Wand relates the the Element of Air. Traditionally the size of a wand was measured by the length between the owners elbow and the end of the middle finger. Although the length is not as important as the Will of the user.

The Pentacle Five pointed star etched or engraved in Wood or Clay. Sometimes made from sticks etc. Used to consecrate other objects such as Oils and Candles.  Place items you want to be consecrated on top of the pentacle. Symbol of the element of Earth.

Chalice or Cup

A ceremonial cup used in ritual. It is used to hold water for consecration etc. Filled with Wine or Mead during Ritual to toast the gods if you feel the need.. Symbol of the element of Water. A cup can be ceramic, glass or metal.

The Athame or Dagger

 A Ritual blade with a black handle usually with no edge used for channelling energy. It can be used to cast the magic circle by tracing the outline of the circle on the floor. It can also be used as a consecrating tool e.g. Point you Athame at the item you want to consecrate and imagine your personal power flowing through the blade and into the item. (see: cleansing procedure). Traditionally the Athame also can be used to control spirits. Symbol of the Element of Fire. I have also been told that the original Witches knife was actually made from bone. Other Witches Daggers have been made from Obsidian Glass.

The Censer Either a steel or earthenware container filled with sand to place combustible charcoal blocks to burn non-combustible incenses. You may also push stick incense into the sand or place incense cones on top the sand for burning. Used for consecrating items and sealing the magic circle e.g. Pass items to be consecrated through incense smoke. Incense was originally used as an air freshener to rid the stench of animal sacrifices. But now we can use as to cleanse the ritual area and use as an aide to reach Ritual Consciousness. Symbol of the element of Air.

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Murray Byfield © 2000-2002