An altar, by definition, is a table or flat surface. It is used as the focus for a religious ritual. These rituals especially involve sacrifices or offerings to a deity. They are most notably found in shrines, temples, and churches. But they are also used by many Pagans, Witches, and Spiritual People to help with their rituals or just to keep in their houses. Back when we started practicing, we were in high school, and I wasn’t allowed to have any “demonic paraphernalia” because I lived in a Christian household. My mother absolutely hated the fact that I went from being a good Christian girl to a devil worshipper seemingly overnight. This seemed illogical. Her best friend from high school was pagan and had taught us for a long time.

Our altar was at Safire’s. It was set up and taken down for ritual use only. This practice created a sacred space that felt charged with energy and intention each time we gathered. We got lucky starting out. My father is a Freemason. He treated us with kindness and support. His influence made our spiritual journey feel special. His wife at the time, a vibrant pagan with a wealth of knowledge about different practices, also played a pivotal role in our exploration. She let us pick out some generic herbs and some altar things from her collection, sharing stories behind each item that added depth to our learning experience. This gave us some things to learn with, which was awesome and encouraging, as we began crafting our rituals. We felt fortunate beyond measure when we stumbled upon a set of House of Night Pillar Candles back when they were available; their flickering flames became a symbol of our dedication and connection to the mystical world. Each candle lit represented not just a moment of magic but also the bonds we formed as we delved deeper into our spiritual practices, discovering the power of intention and community.

We’d get small things like crystals, or we’d make our own statues out of air-dry clay. We still have everything. Now that we’re adults with adult money and no longer live with our parents, we can buy more expensive things for our altar. So now we have a very nice altar, I think. Well, to be technical, we have 5 shelves in our entertainment center that we now use as altar display. All our statues and crystals and such are nicely arranged, and everything is just really aesthetically pleasing.  

Having an actual altar isn’t necessary at all. All you need to do any kind of magic is just yourself. However, having tools can be helpful. Displaying everything on an altar gets me into the witchy mood. It gives off the magical vibes.  

There are absolutely no set rules to altars either. You can make them however you want. I’ve seen them inside Altoids cans with tiny tools or massive wall shelving units that just ooze magic. Whatever you want to use it, however you want to decorate your altar wherever you put an altar, it’s all yours to do. Everyone’s altar is different and personalized and that’s beautiful. 

Do you have an altar set up in your home? If so, we would love to see it! Altars can be a beautiful and personal expression of your spirituality and beliefs, serving as a sacred space for reflection and connection. Please send us some pictures of it if you don’t mind! Sharing your altar can inspire others and create a sense of community among those who cherish their own spiritual practices.