| Know. | Will. | Dare. | Be Silent. |
Though you will not need all of these immediately, the sooner you can obtain them, the sooner you can start using them and becoming familiar with the tools of a Witch.
1. A robe. This should be the first thing that you obtain. Wearing a robe in circle takes your body out of the mundane world and into a magical one. Black is recommended, as other colors have certain significances that might or might not be conducive to the ritual's purpose and intent. Basic and classic, black is always an appropriate choice for a robe's color.
The material of the robe can be whatever you wish, but bear in mind that it can get quite warm in the summer and quite chilly in the winter, so pick your fabrics accordingly. Some people choose to have warm-weather and cool-weather robes to suit a number of situations both indoors and out.
Natural fabrics such as silk, cotton and linen are typically preferable, but what is most important is to choose a fabric you will enjoy wearing. There are many places online where one can buy a robe, but a very simple tunic-style robe can be easily and inexpensively made by someone with basic sewing skills.
2.An athame. The athame is a dagger which has been cleansed and consecrated to become a very personal tool to a Witch. The athame is the representation of the Witch's power, and is used to direct energy, command spirits and cut boundaries. As an athame is a magical dagger, it is a magical weapon and should be thought of as such; it is a tool of command of force, not of subtlety.
An athame should be a double-edged dagger with a dark or black handle. Typically for purposes of working safely in close quarters, the athame should be of length no greater than 13 inches.
3.A goblet. As a part of our circle, we partake of cakes and wine. You will need something to drink from. A stemmed goblet of ceramic or glass is ideal, ceramic being preferable as it is more sturdy. Metal goblets are not recommended, as they can react with the wine.
4.(Women only) A necklace of stones or shells, UNBROKEN BY A CLASP. There are many choices for these, available at lapidaries, hobby shops and beading shops.
5.A journal (optional). Much of the focus of our esbat gatherings will be on the study and development of our skills as Witches. Having something to take notes in so you can continue researching and learning on your own is helpful. The journal is also for personal notes, observations, reflections and recording of one's magical work. Many magicians and witches use the writings they add to their journals as leaves for their own books of shadows. There is no better time to get started building yours than right now.
6.A USB thumb drive (optional). If we don't have to print handouts, it saves trees and money. We often will have files that we think are relevant to the subjects we are studying. If you do not have a thumb drive, we cannot share those with you.