The
Instruments of Strega
The instruments of Strega are similar to other traditions and basically used
the same way, but there are some added tools no self-respecting Strega would be
without.
The
Altar
Most Stregas practice outside on a convenient tree stump or a large stone;
however, indoors we usually prefer a round altar. The directions are usually
the same except the North is usually the starting point, not the East. Black is
the usual color although we do change for the seasons and on Sabbats.
The
Pentacle
Let's begin with the pentacle. It can be made of wood, silver, copper,
brass, even clay and bread dough, but it must have the distinctive sign of the
Walnut tree in the middle. This consists of a cross with two upraised arms at
the ends with little circles on each. It is placed in the middle or slightly
off center.
The
Spirit Bowl
The Spirit bowl is the center of the ritual and where the Goddess and God
reside. Here is where we conjure up the Grigori, and invite our Lord and Lady
to join us. It is a silver, copper, or brass bowl filled with alcohol and nine
drops of Strega, the liquor. It is ignited and the blue flames are the proof
the God and Goddess are in the circle.
The
God and Goddess Candles
These are always silver for the Goddess and gold for the God. We light these
first and then light the spirit bowl. We say," Diana(the particular name
of Diana used in traditions) think for a moment on those who gather in your
name(in Italian) and say basically the same thing for the God.
The
Spirit Knife
Streghan version of the Athame usually in solid silver and engraved with the
witches name-used the same way.
The
Elemental Bowls
On the Altar, around the pentacle, in the four directions, are the elemental
bowls-in the North-stones usually black or brown, in the East, incense in a
little bowl, usually a stick, in the South, a red candle, and in the West, a
bowl of water. These are blessed and consecrated and represent the four
elements in the circle. There are also directional candles on the edges of the
circle and not on the altar. They are lit before the elements are consecrated.
The
Wand and Cauldron
The wand is placed in the South quarter and can be used to summon and in
spells. The cauldron is also in the South and can be placed in the West
especially during the Feast of Shadows.
Bells,
Cords, Scissors, Keys, Oils, Salt, Rue, Fennel, Fava Beans
All of these are used in Streghan rituals and depending on the
sabbat/esbat-these would be added to the altar