This is a reflection of the work of superstition in your life. If you are by nature superstitious, you may be getting a challenge from your subconscious to let go of a particular compulsion. Or, your superstitions may be receiving validation from your unconscious mind.
In your dream, is the ritual empowering?
As you compare the ritual with your waking behavior, is it comforting or troubling that you participated in it during your dream story?