Yes.
Maybe starting with a different question would be better. What do you think of when I say tool? No not the person! The item. I’m going to guess most of you will think of a hammer, screwdriver, wrench, saw, etc. And you would be right.
Now let me ask you another question. What do you think of when I mention weapon?
I think it may be safe to say that most of you will think of a rifle, knife, handgun, and things along these lines. And once again, you would be correct.
When I was growing up in school, everyone carried a pocket knife. For the most part, anyway. I know I had one, and most everyone I knew had one as well. I wouldn’t have dreamed of it being a weapon. Sure, there were fights, and no knives were ever used though. That wouldn’t be right. So I think there is a blurry line between something being a tool or weapon.
Let’s move this into a magical aspect. What comes to mind when I ask about magical tools?
Do your thoughts run to wand, athame (blade), cup, maybe a bell and or a broom?
How about magical weapons? Excalibur? Lugh’s spear? The one ring? I have found it amazing over the years when the topic of magical weapons comes up, no one shouts out ‘the knot’! It could very well be that the definitions I use are different. For tool I use: something (such as an instrument or apparatus) used in performing an operation or necessary in the practice of a vocation or profession. Thank you Webster. And for weapon I refer to: A means used to defend against or defeat another. I think it helps a conversation when words can mean the same thing. Back to weapons. For me, when I started thinking about the word a little differently, it helped me change my perspective. I can easily see a candle being just as much of a weapon as an athame.
In my mind, weapons don’t have to be sharp, pointy things. I know my land wards are very much a weapon. As are my Pocket Notions. I see no need to use the word ‘weapon’ always in an aggressive context. Maybe it’ is too charged a word for some. For me, using this definition gives me an umbrella to help categorize and focus intentions. Of course, as always, you do you!
How do you see the difference between magical tools and weapons? Do me a favor: Before you go, if you liked this post, then please scroll on to the bottom click on that little heart below. Then share this with someone who you think would benefit (there are buttons at the bottom for you to do this easily). Please don’t keep me a secret! I need your help to spread the word. After all, how many people do you know that can say they have their very own personal magical blacksmith??
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