The Athame

The Athame

An athame is a ceremonial black handled blade, used since ancient times for witchcraft. It is now a symbolic blade, as it is not used to cut anything physical, but instead is used in rituals. For a physical blade, one must use a boline.

The athame itself may have a blade carved from bone, steel or crystal, and have some element of black on the handle. It may have a jewelled hilt or pommel, with crystals sacred to the user.

These uses include:

Casting a circle, where a witch traces out a protective circle prior to engaging in a ritual. These circles are one of the most basic components of witchcraft, usually learnt before any other aspect due to the protective nature of it. The athame will also be used to un-cast the circle.

Tracing a pentagram or other symbols of spells.  While this may be also done by the wand, certain spells call for the athame to be used, to give it that extra kick.

Calling the corners or invoking the elements may also be done with the athame.  The athame may be used to point to each corner in turn while chanting for each cardinal point or element.

Cutting ties is another of the specialised uses of the athame. This includes emotional or metaphysical ties, and as a result is connected to the protective nature of the athame.

Some of you may wish to meditate with your athame also, which is also beneficial to strengthen the connection to the athame.

These are just the most basic uses of an athame, and you will find many more develop in your practice. Just remember that the athame is a ceremonial blade, and must be treated with adequate respect and care. Cleanse your athame regularly, give it a sacred place on your altar, put it in a beautiful sheath, wrap it in a natural material, whatever feels best for you.

To watch the video that goes with this essay please visit:

https://youtu.be/-HigK771Y2k