The Pentagram and the Pentacle: What’s the Difference?
If you are interested in occult symbols, you may have come across the terms pentagram and pentacle. These two symbols are often confused or used interchangeably, but they are not exactly the same. In this blog post, we will explore the meaning, history and variations of these two symbols, and how they are used in different contexts.
What is a Pentagram?
A pentagram is a five-pointed star drawn in one continuous line, forming a pentagon in the center. The word pentagram comes from the Greek words penta, meaning five, and gramma, meaning letter or writing. The pentagram is one of the oldest symbols in human history, dating back to ancient Mesopotamia, where it was associated with the planet Venus and the goddess Ishtar.
The pentagram has been used by various cultures and religions throughout history, often as a symbol of harmony, health, perfection and protection. For example, the Pythagoreans in ancient Greece revered the pentagram as a representation of the golden ratio, a mathematical proportion that is found in nature and art. The pentagram also symbolized the unity of the five elements: earth, air, fire, water and spirit.
In medieval times, the pentagram was adopted by Christians as a symbol of the five wounds of Christ suffered during the crucifixion. It was also used to represent the five virtues of knighthood: generosity, courtesy, chastity, chivalry and piety. The pentagram was seen as a powerful talisman against evil forces and witchcraft.
What is a Pentacle?
A pentacle is a five-pointed star enclosed within a circle. The term pentacle comes from the Latin word pentaculum, meaning something with five points. The circle around the star symbolizes unity, wholeness and eternity.
The pentacle is mainly used as a tool or an object in magical practices and rituals. It can be made of various materials, such as metal, wood or clay, and it can bear other symbols besides the pentagram, such as runes, sigils or letters. The pentacle serves as a focal point for channelling or directing energy, as well as a protective shield or a portal to other realms.
The pentacle is widely used by modern pagans, neopagans and Wiccans, who often wear it as a pendant or place it on their altars. For them, the pentacle represents the balance and integration of the five elements, as well as their connection to nature and the divine. The orientation of the star does not matter for them, as both upright and inverted pentacles have positive meanings.
Types of Pentagrams
There are different types of pentagrams that have different meanings and associations. Here are some of them:
Upright Pentagram:
This is the most common type of pentagram, where one point faces upwards and two points face downwards. This configuration symbolizes spirit over matter, or mind over body. It also represents positive qualities such as health, harmony and wisdom.
Inverted Pentagram:
This is where one point faces downwards and two points face upwards. This configuration symbolizes matter over spirit, or body over mind. It also represents negative qualities such as selfishness, greed and chaos.
Baphomet Pentagram:
This is an inverted pentagram with a goat’s head inscribed within it. This symbol is used by the Church of Satan as their official emblem. It represents Satan as a symbol of individualism, freedom and rebellion against tyranny.
Faery Pentagram (also known as the Faery Star, Elven Star, Heptagram or Septogram):
This is an upright pentagram with an extra line crossing each point. This symbol is used by some Wiccans and other pagans who follow a faery tradition. It represents their connection to the faery realm and their respect for nature spirits.
Blazing Pentagram:
This is an upright pentagram with flames around it. This symbol is used by some occultists who practice ceremonial magic or alchemy. It represents their mastery of fire and their transformation through purification.
Conclusion
The pentagram and the pentacle are two related but distinct symbols that have a rich and diverse history. They have been used by different cultures and religions for various purposes, ranging from astronomy to magic. They have also been misunderstood and misrepresented by some groups who associate them with evil or darkness.
However, these symbols are not inherently good or evil; they are simply tools that can be used for different ends. They reflect the beliefs and intentions of those who use them, whether for good or ill. Ultimately, they are symbols of power that can inspire awe or fear depending on how they are perceived.
© Colin Lawson Books