I have been doing a little research on tools used during rituals. I have come up with a few descriptions describing some of these tools.
The golden scythe is used in Druidry. As I know the story of the golden scythe is well known, I am sure not many know how it is used for ritual purposes. How exactly is it used for ritual purposes now? Ah, well, the golden scythe is commonly known as a cutting tool, the curved blade makes it easy to harvest plants and herbs. It is said that by using this in rituals, it is to 'cut free' and release the energy. With the energy being freed it is sent to the gods and blessed upon. An interesting factor of the golden scythe is that it reminds us daily of the crescent moon and its power.
Another ritual tool is the tree branch. The tree branch is used in rituals much like a 'wand' would. When the branch touches something it directs the energy inside that object, creating a flow of energy to be used elsewhere. As the tree branch is made of hazel it also shows symbolism.
A common ritual tool is the Silver tree branch. The silver tree branch is often tied with bells to please the gods. The sound is also used to frighten and ward off spiteful spirits. The silver tree branch can be used to purify. It is also used to announce the ceremony's beginning or end.
A druid may often carry a 'medicine bag', which is filled with herbs and flowers. Druids understand the power the plants possess and know of their uses. The medicine bag is used to carry them. Although, the medicine bags do not necessarily have medicinal purposes, this history holds that they originally held medicinal herbs and later adopted other magical herbs and flowers.
The cauldron is commonly thought of as a symbol of wickedness. This is not the case concerning druids. The druids use the cauldron to create their potions. Depending on the potion created it acquires different attributes and it gains power through the cauldron. Most of the potions created are through the use of plant properties. It is also said that when one drinks of a mixture within the cauldron the person will acquire knowledge.
Sacred plants are also used in ritual ceremonies. Some examples of these are mistletoe and Yuri's love. These are not used often because of their significance. They hold great power and are used only under extreme circumstances. Some other plants used during ceremonies may include flowers due to their magical properties. Tree branches are also used for the same reason.
It is common that druid rituals are held within stone circles. This is because druids believe that stones can channel, store, or direct energy. This is a great aid in druidic rituals. The circle is an important symbol in Druidry for it represents many things and is only natural the stones would form a circle. Some examples of what the circle represents are the sun, moon, and eye, as each is an important aspect. The circle is a simple shape that rituals are frequently held in for some of these reasons.
Animals, although they are not 'ritual tools', they are often called upon during rituals to for their assistance. Each animal brings a unique quality to life, and we can learn through them.
~Winterfresh