KNIFE and SWORD

In the very very old Irish paganism or wicca the Scottish sword and the knife (athame) were not likely used and was more of a patriarchal symbol introduced in ceremonial magick. In modern Irish witchcraft the knife (athame) pronounced Ath-ah-may) represents the element AIR. In the very very old witchcraft incense made from natives herbs were most likely used and is still used today. I use an incense made of three corresponding herbs.

WANDS

The wand is a tool store store and direct energy. They represent the element AIR and the direction East, as well as, incense, sword, and knife. The general belief is that the first Irish wand were walking staves called Shillelagh pronounced (shay-lay-lee). The staff is named for the Shillelagh Forest in County Wicklow. They are often found made of blackthorn and sometimes oak.

Another Irish symbol of the Air element is a pipe made of Irish clay.

The wand shape is a masculine symbol (as is fire) and associated with male fertility. Most commonly the wand was made of a willow tree branch in old Irish. In Faery wicca the wand is often made of an apple tree branch. The druids made thirteen wands each of the trees of the celtic calendar. You learn how to make your own Irish and Irish faery wands on my crafts page.

more to come...

Baile

Credit: This background came from a wonderful Italian Witchcraft site called Fabrisia's Boschetto.