- A focal point and container for magical energies.
- A reminder of your ideals.
- An echo of your beliefs and wishes.
- A Home for the Divine.
A Wiccan altar is typically a piece of furniture (a tree stump is also used), such as a table or chest, upon which a Wiccan practitioner places several symbolic and functional items for the purpose of worshiping the God and Goddess, casting spells, and/or saying chants and prayers. Upon the altar typically rests a cloth, used to protect the surface from damage by candle wax, spilled liquid, or dust from burnt incense. This cloth is often adorned by a pentacle, or other spiritual symbol. An altar may be as simple or complex as you chose.
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| Simple altar |
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| Complex altar |
- Athame- a ceremonial dagger, with a double-edged blade and usually a black handle
- Broom- used to cleanse the ritual area before circle casting
- Candles- used on the altar to represent the presence of the God and Goddess, and in the four corners and center of a ritual circle to represent the presence of the five elements: Fire, Earth, Air, Water and Spirit
- Chalice- is often used in combination with the Athame, combining the two evokes the act of procreation, as a symbol of universal creativity
- Incense- is a powerful way to let your intent be known
- Pentacle- generally used to summon energies, also represents the joining of the five elements
- Wand- is used to channel and direct energy
Some of the items represent the Earth's five elements, but elements may be represented more literally, with gems, salt, water, plant material, etc.
