This is a list of a few of the tools I use, what they are used for and a few definitions I use.
THE ATHAME
This is a knife that is used to direct energy raised during a ritual and for casting and cutting the circle for the ritual. It is never used for cutting purposes. The knife can be of any kind, but it's usually a dark color.
A second knife, often called a Bolline, can be used in rituals for carving. I use my second knife to carve candles and other ritually oriented objects. The second knife should have a marking, or be of a different color so it can be distinguished from the Athame.
THE BOOK OF SHADOWS
Not really a tool, more of a "workbook" of rules, spells, rituals and prayers written by the practioner. This can be any sort of book, and each one differs from person to person, there is no standard Book of Shadows.
THE BROOM
The broom is sacred to both the God and the Goddess as a ritual tool. The broom is a symbol of fertility, and protection. The broom is used to ritually clense the magic area. Brooms can also be placed over a door for protection.
THE CAULDRON
The cauldron is a symbol of the Goddess, it is also symbolic of water, reincarnation and inspiration. Some people will lite fires inside of Cauldrons as part of a ritual.
THE CENSOR
An incense burner. It is used to invite the presence of the Goddess and the God to a ritual. I use incense in a lot my rituals, and ouside of rituals for meditaion, tarot reading and prayer. It provides a relaxing atmosphere, and helps me clear my mind of unwanted thoughts.
THE CUP
Used for the same purposes as a Cauldron. I've replaced my Cauldron with a Cup due to space restraints in my dorm room. For spring rituals I fill the cup with water (to represent the Goddess), and in winter I will place a candle in it (to represent the God). It can also be used for scrying, but I have never used it for that purpose.
THE PENTACLE
This is simply a five pointed star carved into a disc of any material (wood, clay, or even a star scratched into a round mirror). It represents the element of Earth, and ritual objets are placed on it to be consecrated. A Pentacle can also be hung over a door or window as a protection device.
SALT
Salt is important in casting the circle, cleansing the ritual area and purifying ritual tools. It can be any kind of salt.
WATER
Used with salt to purify the circle area.
THE WAND
The wand is a prime magical tool. It is the symbol of invocation, and of fire. It is generally used to raise energy in a ritual and to invite beings into the circle.
