Difference of tools?

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Difference of tools?
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Post # 1
So I've read numerous sources on the topic of Craft Tools, but I've noticed that the descriptions and definitions for Wands and Atheme's are almost identical in regards to use and purpose during rituals, with the only real difference being the basic design or build of the tools themselves and/or personal practitioner's preference.
Which leaves me begging the question- what's the difference really and why aren't they ever associated together or as interchangeable in the plethora of writings out there on the subject?! (ie. cauldron/chalice)
Btw I kno that an atheme is specifically a double edged blade tool while the wand is usu. wood based w/stones, feathers, ribbons etc.
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Re: Difference of tools?
By: Moderator / Adept
Post # 2
The athame and the wand are not truly interchangeable. They have very different functions in ritual.

The Athame is the tool of Air, of the intellect. It is used in casting the ritual circle to "cut" away the sacred space of the circle from the mundane world to cut through the mists of mental confusion. It is also used to command and control spirits and other entities with whom the Witch may be working. As Stewart Farrar writes in his book "What Witches Do", "...with the Athame, thou canst form all Magic Circles, dominate, subdue and even punish all rebellious spirits and demons, and even persuade angels and good spirits. With this in thy hand, thou art ruler of the Circle.”

The Wand, on the other hand, is a tool of Fire and the will. It's energies are less "sharp" and less "focused" than that of the Athame. It invites rather than commands. One could use the wand to invite into the circle Elemental spirits such as the Fae who avoid the iron of the Athame. It can also be used when inviting the Deities to be present during ritual.

Some confusion over similarities in function between tools, such as the Cup/Chalice, is that one is the tool or the practitioner while the other is the tool of a coven. The solitary/coven pairings are: Athame/Sword, Wand/Staff, Cup/Chalice, Pentacle/Paten
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