The pentagram, or five-pointed star, has long been surrounded by mystery, magic and superstition. Its origins date back thousands of years to ancient Mesopotamia where it was used as a symbol representing the five known planets at the time – Mercury, Mars, Venus, Saturn and Jupiter. Through the ages, the pentagram’s meaning has evolved and taken on both positive and negative connotations depending on the culture and belief system.
The name ‘pentagram’ comes from the Greek word ‘penta’ meaning five, and ‘gramma’ meaning letter or drawing. So it literally translates to ‘five lines’ referring to the five points of the star. In early Christianity, the pentagram represented the five wounds of Christ and was used as a protective symbol. Medieval Christians believed the pentagram symbolized the five joys of Mary. However, in later centuries the pentagram became associated with evil and black magic.
This negative association likely began when the pentagram was adopted by various occult groups and Satanists. The inverted pentagram, with two points up, became a symbol of the Devil. This led many Christians to view the standard pentagram with suspicion, even though it had no intrinsic demonic meaning. The occultist adoption of the pentagram has colored its meaning in Western culture ever since.
But what does the Bible have to say about the pentagram? The short answer is – not much. The word ‘pentagram’ does not appear anywhere in Scripture. And there are no clear references to five-pointed stars being used in either a positive or negative way. However, we can analyze some key biblical principles regarding use of symbols, magic and the occult to evaluate whether a Christian should utilize the pentagram or not.
First, God warns strongly against magic, sorcery, divination and occult practices throughout the Bible. Deuteronomy 18:10-12 says, “Let no one be found among you who sacrifices their son or daughter in the fire, who practices divination or sorcery, interprets omens, engages in witchcraft, or casts spells, or who is a medium or spiritist or who consults the dead. Anyone who does these things is detestable to the LORD.” Many of the groups that have adopted the pentagram, such as Wiccans and occultists, also practice magic and divination.
Second, God calls His people to avoid adopting pagan symbols and customs. In Deuteronomy 12:29-32 He tells the Israelites as they enter the Promised Land, “The LORD your God will cut off before you the nations you are about to invade… Be careful not to be ensnared by inquiring about their gods, saying, “How do these nations serve their gods? We will do the same.” You must not worship the LORD your God in their way… See that you do all I command you; do not add to it or take away from it.” As a symbol already associated with paganism and the occult, the pentagram would seem to fall in this category of something to avoid.
Third, 1 Corinthians 10:14 instructs Christians to “flee from idolatry.” An idol being anything we put in the place of God to worship or obey. Adopting occult symbols like the pentagram could lead to, or be perceived as leading to, a form of idolatry by others.
Fourth, Paul writes in 1 Thessalonians 5:22 to “reject every kind of evil.” The fact that the inverted pentagram represents Satan would seem to classify this version of the symbol under the category of evil to avoid.
Fifth, Philippians 4:8 gives us positive advice, “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” The occult associations of the pentagram fail to reflect what is pure, lovely and praiseworthy.
So in summary, while the Bible does not specifically mention the pentagram, its mentions of avoiding evil, rejecting the occult, fleeing idolatry and focusing on what is admirable and praiseworthy would all lead to the conclusion that Christians should not utilize this symbol. Especially the inverted pentagram version associated directly with Satan and evil.
Now what about non-Christians using the pentagram? They do not follow biblical standards, so the above principles do not necessarily apply. However, there is something to be said for being aware of a symbol’s meaning and associations within a culture before displaying it. The pentagram has some deep associations with evil, darkness and the demonic in most Western societies. So at minimum, people should understand these associations before choosing to display or wear this symbol.
In conclusion, while the origins of the pentagram date back millennia to a time of more positive meaning, its more recent associations with the occult and evil have solidified its place as a symbol Christians and the Bible would advise to avoid and reject. For those outside Christianity, cultural awareness of this context continues to be advised. While a five pointed star can just be a geometric shape, when placed in the context of a circle and called a pentagram it gathers a lot of symbolic baggage along with it.
Ultimately, 1 Corinthians 8:9 offers some good advice, “Be careful, however, that the exercise of your rights does not become a stumbling block to the weak.” Although the passage is referring to food sacrificed to idols, the principle also applies more broadly. For Christians, display of a pentagram could cause others to stumble. And for non-Christians, wearing a symbol widely associated with the occult and evil can also lead others to make false assumptions.
When in doubt, symbols and customs that have been used for evil, darkness and control of others are best avoided by Christians and non-Christians alike. As 1 Thessalonians 5:21-22 instructs, “Test them all; hold on to what is good, reject every kind of evil.” The pentagram, unfortunately, seems to fail the test of holding on to what is good.
Let us focus instead on what Philippians 4:8 tells us – “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” Symbols of light, hope and redemption far better reflect such godly virtues.
The origins of the pentagram date back to ancient Mesopotamia and the five known planets. Early Christians used it positively as did medieval Christians. But pagans and occult groups adopted it over time.
The Bible warns against magic, divination and idolatry. It calls God’s people to avoid pagan customs and focus on what is pure and admirable. While not directly mentioned, the occult associations of the pentagram imply it should be avoided.
Christians should steer clear of this symbol, especially the inverted version. Non-Christians should be aware of its occult and evil connotations in most cultures. Seeking symbols of light and redemption is wisest for all.
The pentagram has a complex history of both positive and negative meaning. But caution is advised for Christians and an awareness of cultural context for others. Seeking God and focusing on what is good, right and praiseworthy will lead us away from symbols associated with evil.