The Pentagram varients

The Pentagram Variations

 

To most pagans, witches and occultists the pentagram or pentangle is a well-known image. For some it's a statement of who they are and what they believe. For others, its used in spells, magick, rituals and symbolism. For some, it is a sign of initiation and standing in the Coven or witch communities.

But the penatgram, the five pointed star has a lonfg history and variations that many do not fully understand. Many people, especially the unitiated, wear the pentagram without fully understanding what it is or what it represents.

Let's look at  the pentagram here and I'll explain the generally accepted meaning of each.

The Pentagram and pentacle

Generally and traditional speaking the pentagram represents the 5 elements (earth, air, fire, water and spirit). It can represent the directions, materials, energies and more. It is a symbol that is of great importance to witches, pagans and occultists.  It is used for invoking, banishing, creating, rituals, rites, jewellery and more. An initiate witch or occultist typical wears or displays a pentagram to show they have on the path and have become initiated from an adept be it as part of a coven or as a self-initiated. Traditionally, the pentagram is used to represent males and male energy which is why males typically wear it without the circle around it. Then it becomes a pentacle.

The Pentacle is a pentagram that is encircled . All the five points touch the circle which represents the wheel of life, the endless cycle. Sometimes the points go through the circle but the guidelines are essentially the same. Some see that version  as a symbol that the energy is breaking out of the endless cycle of life and universe. It's down to personal choice. The pentacle is also traditional used by female witches and occults. The circle represents the female energy, the womb from which all is created.

Imitates and adepts can and often do wear the pentagram or pentacle. 

The inverted pentagram or pentacle

The inverted pentagram/ pentacle is very popular symbol and its worn by many without releasing its significance. Is it satanic? depends on your beliefs. Witches and occultists do not see it as satanic in the christian or catholic sense. Rather, it is a symbol to represent a refusal to accept social or religious norms. It is the opposite, the negative, the adversary if you like. Some see that is satan or the devil or the symbol for Baphomet. All are technically correct. It can be seen as the horned god, the Baphomet, The descent into the darker, more esoteric world and a sign of exploration into the occult, the unknown and the dark practices. It is also used as a symbol of rejection of norms and organised religion ( eg The Satanic Temple).

It is also, however, a very important symbol when it comes to expressing your status and intitiation level in witchcraft, Be it as part of a coven or as a solitary witch,

When a witch is inittiated as a Second Degree then they turn their pentagram upside down to demonstrate their depending understanding of the universe and the occult.

The inversion of the pentagram/pentangle is because when a witch has been initiated into the second degree they are faced with adversariel and challenging studies that are much deeper and more esoteric in nature. The early studies of initiation, ritual and rites are explored in a much greater depth, challenging the witch's views and beliefs so that they can begin to truly see how magick and the universe works.

Becomming a second degree is not for some. It can be tough. Heavy going and frustrating, even scary. When they get that degree they wear and use the inverted pentagram as well as the upright one for their jewellery, ritual and altar. Some, have it tattoed on them but this is unwise. Some day they may seek the third degree and the second symbol will essentially be redundant. If you are a witch wearing the inverted symbol you are showing that you are aware of the truth behind the Craft to that level and you reject the established belief systems. You are on your own path.

There is another form of pentagram. When a witch or occultist achieve the initiation at 3rd° degree then they are traditionally entitled to wear a specific type of pentagram or pentacle. The standard five pointed pentacle is in the case of the 3rd degree the same apart from a triangle which is placed on top of the uppermost point. This triangle is symbolic. It represents the learning dedication and experience.

This triangle , placed upon the uppermost point   represents the witch’s or occultist’s understanding of their powers, their responsibilities and their position both within the coven, other witches and the universe. In order to attain 3rd degree a person has to truly study the  Craft and the Occult and the ancient wisdom that has been passed down through generations . The  symbol is proof that the person has achieved the standing of high priest or high priest.  This usually occurs when they have achieved the relevant level of education and / or  they rise to the top of the rank of their coven . This helps identify the person to other witches as someone that is of high standing and capable of training supporting and counselling less experienced witches .

There is another variation too. Sometimes when a witch becomes an Elder ( after many years of study and  service)  they, like me, choose to use a pentagram/pentacle that has instead of lines besoms (broomsticks) crossing each other to form the five points. This tradition is not always acknowledged and not always used . It is down to personal choice but if you aren’t an Elder you may be challenged if you wear this type of pentagram. It seldom happens though.

It has to be said however that many witches and a court followers do not use this symbol. It is not used as much as it used to be but I do think that is a shame when I became high princess I wore that symbol with pride in fact I have a tattooed on my arm.

Whatever type of pentacle or pentagram you choose to wear ease of course down to personal choice but it is recommended that you do a literal research into the type of pentagram or pentacle you want to wear so you do not offend mislead anyone and you do not open yourself up to challenges to prove that you truly are at that level of understanding.