One of the most widely misunderstood symbol - the pentagram - is often feared by many. From the Greek word “pente”, meaning five and “gramma”, meaning letter, the pentagram is a triple triangle that forms an interior pentagon. This simple, five-pointed star has a rich and varied history. This symbol was believed to contain magical properties and was used by ancient Chinese and Japanese religions to symbolize the five elements of life - fire, earth, metal, water and wood. Early Christians used the pentagram to represent the Star of Bethlehem. As time went on, this mystical representation of harmony, peace and health evolved into a symbol of Satan worship. Let’s explore the real meaning of the pentagram.

The History of the Pentagram

The earliest use of the pentagram dates all the way back to 3500 BC. The Chaldees of Mesopotamia inscribed the symbol on their pottery and other artifacts. The Hebrews used the pentagram as a symbol of truth and to represent the Pentateuch, the first five books of the Hebrew Scriptures. The Pythagoreans of ancient Greece were fascinated by the mathematical purity of the symbol and viewed it as a sign of perfection. Ancient Babylonians used the pentagram to represent the gods and religious beliefs of their culture.

During the medieval era, Christians believed that the pentagram symbolized the five wounds of Christ and it was used to ward off evil spirits. For the first few hundred years after Christ’s death, the pentagram was the primary symbol of the Catholic Church. The Inquisition was a period of violence and upheaval in the Christian Church. People who did not conform to The Church’s strict views were executed. During this time, all things associated with Paganism, including the Pentagram, were deemed evil and seen as tools as the devil. The pagans went into hiding, secluding themselves from the religious persecution and burning trials that haunted them.

These secret groups continued to meet, expanding their beliefs and ideas. They developed the science of Alchemy, which had strong roots in geometric symbolism. The pentagram, or pentacle, is a geometric symbol consisting of five lines connecting end to end to form a five pointed star. Found in several geometric figures, this mathematical ratio was first recognized by the Greek mathematician Pythagoras. According to Pythagoras, the five points of the pentagram each represent one of the five elements that make up man: fire, water, air, earth, and psyche.

The properties of the pentagram influenced artists and architects for centuries. Many churches have incorporated the shape of the pentagram into their floor plans and the symbol can be seen in stained glass windows and other architectural elements around the world.

The Pentagram and Modern Times

A number of groups still use the pentagram as a symbol of harmony and spirituality. The temples of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints are adorned with the pentagram. The symbol of the pentagram is also used in many Wiccan ceremonies. Wiccans see the star as symbolizing the four elements of air, water, earth and fire, which are perfectly balanced to create the fifth element of spirit. The pentagram ring is a popular talisman worn by Wiccans and other Pagans. This star of life is often the main feature on their altars and is a widely used ritual tool, often representing feminine energy.

Some believe that there is a marked difference between an upright pentagram and an inverted pentagram. The inverted pentagram was adopted by the Church of Satan as its logo. Usually depicted inside of a circle with a goats head inside the star, this symbol is said to represent the rejection of heaven and all things spiritual. However, the Latter Day Saints and Wiccans use both upright and inverted pentagrams their rituals and ceremonies.

The pentagram has long been a spiritual symbol. Despite any negative stigmas that may be attributed to the five-pointed star, it remains a beacon for those seeking spiritual clarity and divine knowledge. Wear or carry a Pentagram of Solomon, Divine Protection Amulet, Wish Fulfillment Pentagram or a M-5 Great Pentagram Seal to help guard you from negative energy, help you have a clear mind and help your wishes to come true.

This sacred symbol continues to maintain its ancient mystical attributes and is a powerful tool for all who draw from it. The pentagram is a symbol of the elements of the earth and peace, health and protection.