The Athame
The athame is a magick knife. It is not used for cutting, but to direct energy raised during rites and spells. It is usually a dull, double-edged knife with a black or dark colored handle. Black absorbs power. Athames are sometimes engraved with magickal symbols. The knife absorbs power from you and the area around you. The symbolism of the knife is change. It is linked with the Element of Fire. Its straight phallic shape links it with the God.
The Athame is used in salutes to gods, goddesses and the Ancient Ones, and for a variety of other purposes. None of these purposes, interestingly enough, include the traditional function of a knife as a tool. As a penetrating tool, the Athame represents the masculine aspect of divinity, just as the Chalice represents the feminine aspect. The term, of unknown origin, was first seen in Medieval grimoires.
The Boline
A boline is used to actually cut herbs, cloth and many other magickal items. You need a knife that will hold a sharp edge. This is the Witches working knife.
