Order of the Golden Dawn

[AngelofDeath]

If I am lacking in intent or willpower, would rituals help?

Yes, rituals are designed to help develop those things in many ways. Also, they act as a focal point and a method of discipline. A lot of people look at ritual and ceremonial magic and think it's hoaky but from the inside out, it takes a immense amount of concentration, memory and energy. Also, the Buddhist consider ritual works as an excellent way to gather a huge amount of positive energy and then send it out to the benefit of all beings.

Properly, rituals are a method of acute concentration and organization. It's the difference between molding clay purely with only your hands, and having tools to make specific shapes, cuts and designs. Sure, with just your hands you could ultimately make the same thing, but with knowledge of the tools it all happens that much faster and cleaner and more accurately.