The barren scepter Macbeth refers to is a symbol implying that he?

Macbeth refers to the "barren scepter" as a metaphor for his kingship. He sees it as a symbol of his powerlessness and lack of control over his life. He feels that he has been stripped of his authority and that his kingdom is slipping away from him. This is a reflection of his guilt and despair over the murders he has committed.