Witches are no different. We have used our tools as extensions of our abilities - to harness and empower the energies we are working with. Our tools are not only extensions of ourselves, but also represent various aspects of our God and Goddess.
Probably the earliest of the tools of the Streghe was the wand, followed by the shell or gourd. These symbolize the God and Goddess, respectively. As time passed, other tools developed and took on special significance, adding the chalice, Pentacle, and Spirit Blade, among others.
A study of the tools and their significance will reveal a strong resemblence to the weapons and armour of a Knight. All Witches, regardless of the Path they follow, are, to some degree, spiritual warriors. As such, we equip ourselves with the items which will allow us to protect ourselves, and those around us.
Tools have always been an intrical part of human life. Extensions of ourselves, they allow us to work effectively, helping us to harness more power and stronger energies into achieving our goals.
Trees were seen as sacred beings. People observed that life sprung from their branches. They produced leaves, flowers and fruits, providing food and shelter. Planted firmly in the ground by their roots, they stretched upwards towards the sky.
Ancient people chose to "borrow" some of the tree's power, incorporating it into a powerful too. After making an offer of nectar to the tree's Numen, or Spirit, a section was removed from the bend in the branch out to the fork. This measured the length from the inside of the elbow to the tip of the middle finger. It is interesting to note that this unit of measurement is fairly standard among the various Traditions of Witchcraft.
Once the wand was properly prepared, it became a tool of Nature's inner magick - a gentle tool used to request, not demand. It is used to call upon the gods and nature spirits. It is a symbol of Air, associated with the East. It is used for healings, diviniation, and astral workings.
The Pentacle was originally a stone in the circle, marking the centre of the "Sacred space." This rock contained a spirit and was marked with a pentacle, representing the four elements held in balance by the spirit of nature.
The pentacle now can be made of any natural material. There is no speical preperation once the pentacle is set upon the material because the natural materials are already filled with the spirit of Nature. Once the markings are placed upon it, it is placed beneath the Spirit Bowl, serving also to insulate the altar from the heat of the Spirit Flame.
The original purpose of the Spirit Bowl is now filled by the Moon Bowl. The Spirit Bowl is usually made of metal, and serves as the container for the Spirit Flame. It is filled with an alcohol-based liquid, such as Strega Liquore. Once lit, the blue flame is the presence of the Deity within the Ritual Setting.
Originally, a large shell was used to contain seawater for blessings and works of magick. The Moon has long been associated with the Tides of the Ocean, and because of this, seawater is said to possess the essence of the Moon's power. Within the bowl is placed a white shell, representing the Full Moon in the night sky. This allows Moon worship to be carried out even when the Moon is not visible, or for indoor rituals.
Known as the Athame, or Dagger in the Wiccan tradition, the Spirit Blade is one of the mose common tools for the Streghe. This tool is used for manipulating power. It is used for directing energy into the Astral plane for works of Magick. It is also used in erecting the circle. The Spirit Blade is used in conjunction with the Spirit Bowl for drawing the Spirit Flame, and the essence of the Deity into the ritual circle.
The Nanta Bag is unique to the Streghe, and serves two main purposes. First, it keeps its wearer in harmony with the forces of Nature. Second, it serves as a "portable altar," allowing the Strega to perform acts of Magick anywhere.
Within the bag are objects which represent the ritual tools. Also within the bag are elemental symbols and objects of personal power. The bag is based upon the principle of "contagion" magick. "Basically, this means that objects absorb power and have an energy field around them. When one object is placed in contact with another, than these objects are joined and influence one another. The Nanta Bag, in turn, has a contagion influence upon the person who carries it." Taken from Ways of the Strega.
