The Boline
The boline (also spelt boleen, bolleen or bolline) is traditionally a white handled knife used for physical cutting within the circle and without. Pronounced bow-leen the boline is most commonly shaped like a small scythe with a steel double-edged blade, though a straight single-edged blade can also be used depending on personal preference. Unlike the athame which is reserved for ceremonial roles and rarely used for physical cutting, the boline is the ‘utility knife’ of the Wiccan tool kit and serves as a means to harvest and crush herbs, cut flowers for an altar, trim candle wicks, whittle wands and inscribe items with sigils and other symbols of magick. The boline is also used to cut physical and spiritual bonds and can be dedicated to a deity in a special ritual – though this is not essential. Traditionally, the boline has a white handle, often made with carved wood, shell or bone, making it distinct from its counterpart, the athame which is traditionally black-handled.
Despite its practical uses, the boline is a sacred tool for Wiccans and pagans and is just as important as any item of magick. Therefore, cleansing and consecrating a newly acquired boline before use is good practice. An effective way of cleansing a newly acquired boline is to wrap it in a layer of cloth and bury it in the earth for a full cycle of the moon, allowing the charge of the earth to purify the tool of and get rid of unwanted energies.
As is the case with any Wiccan tool, the boline becomes powerful through the personal energies of the user. Using the boline for everyday activities such as harvesting herbs and flowers will not only strengthen your connection with the tool but direct awareness to your process, helping draw your attention to the magick around you.
The boline can also be inscribed with symbols ranging from astrological glyphs to runes and symbols of deities, spirits and the elements. Inscribing these symbols directly onto your boline can enhance magick and help bind the tool to the user, but it is not strictly necessary. The most important method of selecting any sacred tool is to be guided by what feels right to you. As one of the most commonly used utensils in Wiccan and pagan practice, consider the boline as an extension of your physical and magickal self that will aid you in day-to-day use. Finding a boline that “speaks” to you will also ensure that you will be comfortable and in sync while working in your magickal practice.
When not in use, the boline must be stored with care and reverence. Keeping it out of the reach of young children is also a good idea.
You can find bolines and athames for sale at our website https://thesacredwillow.com.au/ . Please familiarise yourself with your state or territory legislation regarding weapons and knives before purchasing an athame or boline.
Disclaimer: This site is for informative purposes only and its content should not be considered professional advice. While every effort has been made to ensure its accuracy it is no replacement for the attention of a dedicated professional. The Sacred Willow and it’s proprietors cannot be held responsible for any damage and/or injury suffered resulting from actions and/or decisions based on information found on the site. Please do not self diagnose any condition regarding your own or another’s health. Always seek professional advice or arrange a consultation.
Some of the information provided on this Witchcraft Blog are based on myth, folklore and tradition and may suggest some supernatural or medicinal powers, however we make no claims as to their medical, magickal, psychic or esoteric properties and are sold as curios only.
