Chart of magical Arcane Tools, detailing their properties, uses, and benefits in
herbalism and healing practices.
| Name |
Description |
Properties |
| Altar |
The ritual workspace; a table, shelf, or other dedicated area where
witches practice their craft.
|
For some witches, altars can be a place of regular spells, rituals,
and magickal workings, for others, it is simply a sacred space where they place symbolic
objects. There is nothing to suggest that a witch’s altar should be dedicated to a
specific religious path; indeed, there are witches across all religions, and some
witches worship nothing but Mother Earth. |
| Amulet/Talisman |
An object which has been ascribed magickal powers, or with which
intentions have been set. |
In witchcraft, an amulet or talisman is a kind of ‘good luck charm’
imbued with the intention of the witch and then carried with them so they can draw from
its energy when needed. Often added to charm bags, spell bottles, or carried in the
pocket or purse. |
| Athame |
A ceremonial knife or blade, most commonly with a black handle and a
double-edged blade. |
Used to channel and direct energy and cast protective circles. As
the blade itself is not traditionally used for cutting, it is often beautiful, rather
than functional. If the ritual, ceremony, or spell requires cutting, a different knife
(or boline) is used. Unlike the gentle energy of a wand, the athame has a firm,
commanding energy. |
| Besom |
A traditional broomstick constructed of twigs tied to a sturdy pole.
|
Large besoms are used to sweep clean a ritual space before
practicing, though as this is more of a spiritual or metaphorical cleaning, the besom
usually does not touch the ground, but is used a few inches above ground. Small besoms
are often used to clean the altar in much the same way. |
| Boline/Bolline/Bolleen |
A boline is a white-handled knife, sometimes has a small, straight
blade, but a crescent-shaped blade is not uncommon.
|
Is used for practical work before, or during spells and rituals,
such as cutting herbs, cords, wands, etc. or inscribing candles.
|
| Book of Shadows |
A book of instructions for magickal rituals and spells, often also
containing religious text, and personal thoughts.
|
Widely used by witches of all religious paths. Unlike the Grimoire,
the Book of Shadows has more of a journal quality, since it is often used for
recording experiences and emotions, rather than just ingredients and instructions.
|
| Cauldron |
A pot which was traditionally made of metal and used for cooking and
boiling.
|
While the classic imagery of a cauldron shows it bubbling magickal
concoctions over leaping flames, today the cauldron is more often a smaller, more
understated fireproof pot which is used to burn herbs and incense, and for performing
fire magick.
|
