Is That Sword Alive?

Fans of the original Legend of Zelda game know the phrase. “It’s dangerous to go alone! Take this.” But…is that sword a sentient being? Is it alive? That would be the only way taking the sword would involve not being ‘alone.’ If not, are those two statements simply unconnected?

I just don’t know. I do know that the phrasing bugs the crap out of me and always has. Perhaps “It’s dangerous to go unarmed!” would have been better.