First, a definition:
- Pentagram — five pointed star
- Pentacle — five pointed star enclosed in a circle, denoting sacred space
The image of the pentacle is thousands of years old, appearing in Mesopotamia as early as 3000 BCE. In medieval times Christians used the image on shields and other armor as a symbol of protection, kindness, loyalty and virtue (Sir Gawain and the Green Knight). Only recently has the pentacle, or pentagram, been associated with evil.
Mathematically, the pentacle is representative of the golden ratio/Fibonacci sequence making it an aesthetically pleasing design.
The pentacle has been used by many cultures and spiritualists throughout history. In the 16th century it was used by Heinrich Cornelius Agrippa von Nettesheim to symbolize Man as the perfected work of God. This was expounded upon by Eliphas Levi, and also used by the Freemasons, Muslims (Solomon’s Seal), Christians (the Five Wounds of Christ), and Satanists (the Head of Baphomet). It was the latter association which became synonymous with the occult and deemed evil by those who didn’t understand the history.
Modern Pagans, generally those who practice Wicca and Witchcraft, use the pentagram to symbolize the five elements of air, fire, water, earth, and spirit.
Today, the pentacle is recognized as a religious symbol in the U.S. military and can be added to grave markers on military graves. As personal jewelry, it can be worn with a single point up, denoting Spirit, or with two points up to show a second-degree initiation.