I just wanted everyones opinion on things you create or get for your own spiritual practice. Is it wrong to make a tool or item for your own practice using unnatural materials? I have some people say if it's not made from natural material that it has no magickal energy. For example maybe you want to decorate a wand so you use artificial leather or craft store gems and dyed feathers to make it the way you want it vs using real leather, natural crystals, and cleaned unaltered feathers. Does it matter? Do you think one is more poweful than the other? Or do you think it's just as poweful because you took the time and energy to make something that feels right to you? Or if someone doesn't have resources to get certain items so they use what they can find and what they can obtain to get a similar result, is it wrong? Using man made crystals or dyed, irradiated, metal treated crystals for healing and magick, does it give it more potential? Or does it take away it's effectiveness? Or does it give it a new meaning or life?
I know these are all questions bunched together, but I appreciate anyone who would take the time to answer and share with me what you think of these questions and tell me how you feel. Thank you everyone! c:
I actually agree with Brysing, but I must point out that other people have a different matter of opinion. There are some who believe certain materials have certain metaphysical properties which make them more conducive to energy.
For example it is one reason why certain materials are used in the construction of tools in the Western Mystery Tradition and why they are also wrapped in silk when not in use, to hold the 'charge' they have gathered from consecration and use.
Personally, I think if you have the urge to do something, and you can't wait to do it, then you should do it. Regardless of the situation, so yes, I think you should decorate the wand however you want.
I'm a poor twenty-something, I do not have a full ceremonial collection of tools. I have used plastic cups as a chalice, and my salt and ash are contained in shot glasses. I assure you my practice is not affected because I still make it work.
I have found that certain materials hold energy better than others. Others direct energy better. You need to practice to find out what works for you. I don't know if this is something that is specific to each practitioner or not.
