Words are powerful, and that belief is fairly widespread. In Kabbalistic Judaism, the belief goes so far to include the individual letters that make up the word. Some belief systems just believe names are important. In some countries writers are as reverred as political powers. The quote "the pen is mightier than the sword" also clearly demonstrates a belief in the power of the word.

Open Sesame. Abra Cadabra. Hocus Pocus. Alacazam. Magic is performed through words. In fact, stage magicians know their act becomes more believable when words are uttered. A mime magician is just doing tricks. But a speaking magician is doing magic.

In grade school we learn the rhyme, "Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me." It is a 'counter-spell' to ward off the harm caused by words. If words truly were harmless, there wouldn't be a need to say the rhyme.

With words, we bypass the physical shell of the body and attack the soul directly. Any wounds the soul recieves are guaranteed to last a lifetime. No matter what kind of balm is applied, the wound will never fully heal.

The quickest way to knock someone down isn't through physical force but through judicious use of words. The witty barb does more to harm an enemy than most physical actions.

The vocal component of an incantation is very important. It goes beyond communication. To speak and to hear connects the practioner to the world in a unique way. Words are a significant step in the process of turning ideas into reality. Never underestimate the effect of on off handed remark. The simplest of statements, said without much thought, can do the greatest of harm.