Ritual tools have long been used by the practitioner to aid in magical workings and ritual.  They are used to focus and direct energy for the purpose of connecting with the Gods.  They are both symbolic and practical.  Tools are used to invoke and welcome deities and the energies of the elements to help perform magical work and to protect against unwanted energies while in a magical ritual.  The tools are always thought to be an extension of oneself and a conduit for one’s personal energy.