Do I Need an Altar?
What’s the purpose of an altar, and do I need one? In this article, we’ll be answering the commonly asked questions about altars.
What is an altar?
Your altar refers to your ritual workspace. This is where your magical tools are placed along with any representations of the ritual’s theme or purpose. They are used in almost every kind of spiritual, magickal, or religious ceremony.
Altars can be beautiful and extravagant or simple and practical.
An altar is defined as “a platform or table used to regard with great or extravagant respect, honor, or devotion.” You can use an altar to place several symbolic and functional items to honor deity or your ancestors, cast spells and rituals, meditating, or saying chants and prayers.
More abstractly put, I like to think of altars as a sacred area, and by creating your altar, you are inviting chosen energies to protect and guide your rituals, celebrations, or intentions.
Altars are also a place for:
- creativity
- gratitude
- self-exploration
- spiritual growth
- guidance
