Magical Altars

Sacred Workspace

 An altar is more than a table or shelf of a bookcase that is set with
candles and magical tools, they are a sacred space apart from mundane
space and time. They can range in size and complexity depending on their
owner and their intended use. A magical practitioner can choose to have
more than one altar, one OCS member has a general altar indoors for
spellcraft and winter rites, one stone altar outdoors for high holidays,
nature magic and summer rites and a small altar dedicated to her patron
Gods. A coven or magical group may have a larger table set with many
acutremont and there are some people who have little more than a special
box or shelf upon which they can light candles.

 When you have decided what type of altar you require next you may want to
consider its placement. Witches align their altars to the East and the rising
sun. Asatruar place their's facing North. Another idea is to use a round
table and place it in the center of your workspace, this allows for
multi-directionallity and if practicing with a group all members can gather
around the altar equally like the Round Table of Camelot.

 A very basic altar would be a wooden table or one with a stone top upon
this table you may set a cloth, white would serve for general workings as
would black. You could change the cloth to any colour for specific workings
or use a small cloth square of the colour that works best for your intent.
Some altar candles will shed the light you need to see by, these are usually
white tapers in tall holders. A good supply of smaller coloured tapers will
prove an asset for spellcraft. Some represent the elements on their altars by
placing things of Earth in the Northern corner, Fire in the South, Water in
the West, and Air in the East. You may want an incense censor, an Athame or
wand, a chalice or cauldron, and images of ancestors, Gods or spirits that
aid you in your workings.

A temporary altar may be carried to any place that you wish when you intend to
work at another's home or in nature.