Athame Symbolism The magick knife-dagger (or athame) has an ancient history. It isn't
used for cutting purposes in Wicca, but to direct the energy raised during
rites and spells. The Knife is often dull, usually double-edged with a black
or dark handle (the bolline is usually white & sharp-edge). When the
dagger is used in ritual to direct energy, some of this power is absorbed
into the handle - only a tiny amount which can be called upon later. The
stories of Swords with Magical powers and names are quite common in mythic
literature (Excalibur, for example) -- swords are nothing more than large
knives.
Pentacle Symbolism The Pentacle or Pentagram is a 5 pointed star that
is often, but not always, encircled with the circle of Unity. It represents
the domination of Spirit or Divine Will over base matter, and the elements
of Spirit, Earth, Water, Fire, and Air. The pentacle has been a symbol of
protection and spiritual growth for millennia. At its points are the stages
of Life: birth, initiation, consummation, repose, and death, with the circle
bringing us back to birth in the cycle of reincarnation.