The pentagram is a widely recognized symbol. It is a five pointed star encased in a circle that connects the points. It has been around since ancient times and carries both significant and varied meanings. The pentagram is most often portrayed as a symbolic representation of Satanism, especially in tv shows, movies and books.
Does the pentagram hold any Christian significance, or is it solely a symbol of the occult? Let’s take a look at the history and determine for ourselves if the pentagram is a symbol of light or darkness.
The Historical Background of the Pentagram
There are many sources on the internet to find information regarding the pentagram. Ancient civilizations such as Mesopotamia, Greece, and Egypt used it as a symbol of health, protection, and harmony. Up until medieval times, the pentagram symbolized the five wounds of Christ. As shared in the article by Jenn of Dual Crossroads, this symbol has been around as far back as 3000 BCE (Before Common Era). Some medieval churches used it to represent the five virtues (faith, hope, charity, justice, and wisdom). The Jewish kabbalistic tradition used it to represent justice, mercy, wisdom, understanding, and transcendent splendor.
When did it transition to occultism? In the article, “The History of the Pentagram and Its Symbolism” on Templarhistory.com the writer states, “Eliphas Levi was the first to adapt the inverted pentagram … as symbolic of evil.” It was noted that the single point facing upward was good while the single point facing downward represented evil.
Isaiah 5:20 reads, “Ah! Those who call evil good, and good evil, who change darkness to light, and light into darkness, who change bitter to sweet, and sweet into bitter!” (usccb.org) This relates to the shifting of the meaning of symbols over time. Remember John 1:5, “the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” (usccb.org) God’s truth remains unchanging no matter what the world or society deems to be truth.
The Meaning of the Pentagram: Symbolism and Interpretations
What is the meaning of the pentagram? The upright symbol is associated with positive spiritual symbolism in some traditions. While the inverted is often linked to the occult and Satanism. For Wiccans, the five points generally symbolize the five elements; earth, air, fire, water and spirit. It represents balance and protection in these belief systems. This is often how the pentagram is depicted in tv shows and movies.
The pentagram is also commonly associated with the human form. In Christianity, it sometimes is associated with the five wounds of Christ: his punctured hands and feet, plus the puncture in his side by the soldier’s spear.
The Bible warns against divination, sorcery, and occult practices. Deuteronomy 18:10-12 reads, “Let there not be found among you anyone who causes their son or daughter to pass through the fire,* or practices divination, or is a soothsayer, augur, or sorcerer, or who casts spells, consults ghosts and spirits, or seeks oracles from the dead. Anyone who does such things is an abomination to the LORD, and because of such abominations the LORD, your God, is dispossessing them before you.” (usccb.org) It also teaches about the importance of discerning spiritual symbols in 1 Corinthians 10:21, “You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and also the cup of demons. You cannot partake of the table of the Lord and of the table of demons.” (usccb.org)
The Pentagram and Christianity
There was early Christian adoption, but later rejection due to occult associations. According to Wikipedia, “the inverted pentagram is broadly used in Satanism, sometimes depicted with the goat’s head of Baphomet, as popularized by the Church of Satan since 1968.” The church teaches the danger of using symbols without fully understanding their implications. For that reason, in 1855 the Church determined the pentagram was evil.
The Bible does remind us about the importance of focusing on Christ rather than symbols. There is a commandment against idolatry and making graven images. Read Exodus 20:3-4, “You shall not have other gods beside me. You shall not make for yourself an idol or a likeness of anything in the heavens above or on the earth below or in the waters beneath the earth;” (usccb.org)
The Dangers of the Pentagram: Occult Influence and Spiritual Risks
There is a noticeable rise in Satanic and occult practices in general and using the pentagram. Many “exercises” or “meditations” that are rooted in unchristian modes, are cloaked in “spirituality.” These are becoming mainstream without people truly understanding what they are getting into. The Bible provides clear warnings about engaging in dark spiritual practices. Leviticus 19:31, “Do not turn to ghosts or consult spirits, by which you will be defiled. I, the LORD, am your God.”(usccb.org)
Modern media and today’s culture have a subtle (or not so subtle) influence from the occult. People seem to no longer question the Christian value of what they are doing. Pay attention to what is popular, where morals and values are headed and how human life is so undervalued. Remember Ephesians 6:12, “For our struggle is not with flesh and blood but with the principalities, with the powers, with the world rulers of this present darkness, with the evil spirits in the heavens.” (usccb.org)
Can the Pentagram Have Any Positive Meaning?
The early Christian perspective of the pentagram symbolizing the five wounds of Christ is a positive reminder for Christians. Christ does have the power to redeem and transform even symbols, but humans are weak. Sure, the pentagram can have positive meaning, but our free will often can get us into unwanted trouble. We must pray about the intent and utilize spiritual discernment to determine what God wants us to do. Turn to Romans 12:2, “Do not conform yourselves to this age but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and pleasing and perfect.” (usccb.org) Remember who God created you to be when discerning what is evil.
The Impact of the Pentagram in Today’s World
There has been increased usage of the pentagram in pop culture, fashion, and media. We see it often in tv shows and movies. Symbols influence our thoughts and spiritual perception even when we don’t realize it. Constant flaunting in what appears to be trivial or fictional circumstances, desensitizes us to the true meaning. This will often cause us to readily accept something that we normally wouldn’t.
There is no need to be fearful. Christians do need to be discerning. Don’t just accept what you are told by society and mainstream culture. Pray about it. Talk to God. educate yourself on the origins of any practice. Refer to Colossians 2:8, “See to it that no one captivates you with an empty, seductive philosophy according to human tradition, according to the elemental powers of the world and not according to Christ.” (usccb.org)
Proper Christian Actions Toward the Pentagram
As Christians, we should not fear symbols but we should be wise about their use. They are not replacements for God. They do not grant wishes, or make your prayers come true. If something “feels” wrong, it probably is. Always stay rooted in Christ, focusing on faith over fear. Although it may be difficult, avoid unnecessary associations with occult practices. Many of these are commonly accepted in today’s society so seek counsel if needed. These two scripture passages are great reminders about how to practice discernment:
- 1 Thessalonians 5:21-22, “Test everything; retain what is good. Refrain from every kind of evil.” (usccb.org)
- Matthew 10:16 – “Behold, I am sending you like sheep in the midst of wolves; so be shrewd as serpents and simple as doves..” (usccb.org)
Although the pentagram seems to be rooted in Christianity, it has been taken to represent something ungodly. Focus on faith in Christ rather than symbols. Utilize discernment and wisdom in engaging with cultural symbols. When needed, seek spiritual guidance. Always turn to the redeeming love of our God for support and guidance.
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