In any case, this is the interpretation. In grimoires, the explanations and descriptions of the operations and the ceremonial tools are actually veiled. Basically, they are described in code. Aleister Crowley in his Liber Aba and Franz Bardon in his PoME describe what those ceremonial tools actually are. They are not actual physical tools, but they refer to parts of the magician himself. This is an example:
Aleister Crowley writes that the circle is actually the aura of the magician, which he calls "the true circle", if I'm not mistaken. Taking this into consideration then, the names written in the circle are actually names you are supposed to invoke into yourself and your aura, for spiritual authority. I mean, let's be honest, a mere circle drawn on the floor is not going to give you any authority or protection. Actually invoking those names, however, will.
But again, I'm not a ceremonial magician, so maybe I'm wrong, in which case someone correct me.
The wand is the will of the magician, not an actual object that you wield in the air.
The triangle is the magician's focus and concentration in conjuration, as well as the threefold call to the spirit. Vibrating a spirit's name three times could mean that you are "calling it in the triangle". Also, saying the conjuration three times.
The robe is the godform that you assume, the spirit that you wear, prior to evocation.
The sword is magical authority.
The cup is your knowledge and understanding of what you are doing, which will grant power to the ritual.
Etc.
By these explanations, I take it that ceremonial magic is not done by wielding actual physical tools, but by becoming conscious of certain parts of yourself and using them to achieve a better and more fixed result in your operation. You use the tools only in the beginning and, after you understand what they represent, you stop using them and use your own powers directly.
So what do you think? Is this a viable theory?