An athame (ATH-uh-may) is a double-edged dagger. In general, the athame is not sharpened, primarily for safety reasons. An athame *never* cuts anything physical – it is strictly an energy tool.
The Athame is an extension of yourself that you use to focus your energy during ritual ceremonies. Traditionally it has a black hilt, usually wooden, although that is not necessarily the rule.
Below are specific invocations used to present the athame.
Presentation Of The Athame
Hold your athame towards the sky in both hands and say:
O Great Lord, bless this athame. May it be forever unsullied, bound to your greatness so that no thing be harmed. 0 my Lord, bless this athame. May it be used only for the good and glory of the One, One heart, one hope, one love.
Then say:
O Beauteous Lady, bless this athame. May it be untainted in thy service, dedicated to your goodness, harming none. 0 my Lady, bless this athame. May it be used only for the good and glory of the One. Great Lord and Lady, so let it be.
(Source: Natural Magic: Spells, Enchantments & Self-Development by Pamela Ball)
