The pentagram is a powerful symbol in Wicca that holds significant meaning for practitioners. It is a five-pointed star, often encircled, and each point represents one of the five elements: earth, air, fire, water, and spirit. The pentagram is drawn with one point facing upwards, symbolizing the dominance of spirit over the elements. Wiccans believe that the pentagram is a protective symbol, capable of warding off negative energy and evil forces. It is considered a sacred symbol, representing the connection between the physical and spiritual realms. The five points represent the harmony and balance of these elements, as well as the interconnectedness of all things in the universe.
The five points represent the harmony and balance of these elements, as well as the interconnectedness of all things in the universe. The upward-pointing pentagram, also known as the "pentacle", is often used in ritual practices. It is commonly worn as a piece of jewelry, such as a pendant or a ring, to serve as a reminder of one's spiritual beliefs and to enhance one's connection to the divine.
Real Witches On How They’re Celebrating Halloween
When I was younger, I thought all witches were like the Wicked Witch of the West from The Wizard of Oz. Green, scary, and evil. Of course, I know now that I was wrong. Witches are all around us, and they look just like you and me. (Don't believe me? Check out these photos.) But while you might imagine that Halloween is the time of year they shine, many witches actually celebrate a different holiday on October 31.
A significant amount of witches celebrate Samhain, a pagan holiday that honors ancestors and spirits, from which modern-day Halloween is thought to have evolved. On this day, it's believed that the veil between the world of the living and the dead thins. "What I believe the media and film tends to confuse about the Samhain holiday is that it's less about being spooked by the dead and more about honoring and venerating those we've lost," explains Blue June, a tarot reader.
Advertisement ADVERTISEMENTThere's no one way to honor Samhain. "Traditions vary with witches, as that is part of the allure of being a witch," explains Mysticalcraft Arriana, Keen.com advisor. "Anything goes as long as it has the correct intent, of course."
We asked some practicing witches to tell us what their celebrations usually look like — and it's not as stereotypically spooky as you think.
They connect with ancestors
"I light a candle to honor [ancestors] and leave out candy or libations that they enjoyed," says astrologer Lisa Stardust. She says that unlike Halloween, she's not trying to scare away their spirits, but to honor them.
Some witches speak with these spirits. "An Ouija board is a standard tool to speak with those crossed over," notes Mysticalcraft Arriana. "Mediation and connecting to those in our hearts is another way to connect. Or you can cast a circle and ask for your Deity's help," she says, explaining that each witch has deity they feel close to, that they can reach out to for help and guidance in life.
They give thanks
In addition to connecting with those who have passed, Live The Light, psychic advisor at Keen.com, uses the day to set intentions that help her welcome changes and transformations into her life. "Remember to give thanks for what the summer months brought as you look to the fall ahead. Finally, give a hug and kiss to your loved ones in spirit," she recommends. Live The Light says it's also a good day to eat a favorite food, playing your favorite songs, or share memories with the people you love.
Advertisement ADVERTISEMENTNarayana Montúfar, senior astrologer for Astrology.com, does something similar. "I always perform a ceremony in which I express gratitude for all the things that I have learned in the current year, then I write down all the things I want to let go of, and afterwards, I burn the paper with a lit candle as I imagine them going away from my life," she says.
They meet up with their coven & cast election magick
Usually Sarah Potter, a tarot reader, professional witch, and color magic practitioner based in New York City, meets with her coven in person on Samhain. But this year, they're using Zoom to perform their secretive rituals. ""Our coven does different rituals," she says. "We do magickal work together for the greater good of humanity."
That work feels especially important right now, ahead of the election, Potter says. "I'm very focused on using my magick to ensure that votes are being counted, voting is easier, and the voices that need to be heard are uplifted." She'll also be working on "clearing any obstacles preventing votes from being counted, or anything that would stand in the way of getting Trump out of office." Sounds like a good way to spend the holiday to me.
They donate to black cat funds
. Pretty fitting, right? These are resources that aim to protect black cats, which are less likely to get adopted than other breeds, due to their associations with bad luck. Potter says she's going to look into funds she can donate to this October 31. "I have a black cat and I love her so much," Potter says. "Since I can't do what I would usually do, that was something I thought would feel really nice to do this time of year."
In addition to connecting with those who have passed, Live The Light, psychic advisor at Keen.com, uses the day to set intentions that help her welcome changes and transformations into her life. "Remember to give thanks for what the summer months brought as you look to the fall ahead. Finally, give a hug and kiss to your loved ones in spirit," she recommends. Live The Light says it's also a good day to eat a favorite food, playing your favorite songs, or share memories with the people you love.
When casting spells or performing rituals, Wiccans may draw a pentagram in the air or on the ground to create a sacred space and invoke the energies associated with each element. The pentagram also holds personal significance for each individual practitioner. Some may assign specific meanings to each element within the pentagram, using it as a tool for manifestation and intention setting. Others may see it as a symbol of protection and spiritual guidance. Regardless of the personal interpretation, the pentagram remains a central symbol in Wiccan practice, embodying its core principles of harmony, balance, and connection..
Reviews for "The Pentagram's Role in Lunar Magick: Harnessing the Moon's Energy in Wiccan Rituals"
1. John - ★☆☆☆☆
I was extremely disappointed with "Significance of the pentagram in wicca". The book promised to provide in-depth information about the pentagram and its importance in Wiccan practices, but it fell short on delivering any substantial content. The author seemed more focused on discussing their personal beliefs and experiences rather than providing factual information. The book lacked structure and failed to explain the subject matter in a clear and concise manner. Overall, I found it to be a shallow and uninspiring read.
2. Emily - ★★☆☆☆
While "Significance of the pentagram in wicca" touched on some interesting concepts related to the pentagram symbol, I found the writing style to be convoluted and hard to follow. The author introduced various ideas without providing sufficient explanations or examples, leaving me confused at times. Additionally, the book lacked depth and failed to delve into the historical and cultural significance of the pentagram in Wiccan practices. It felt more like a vague overview rather than an informative guide. Overall, I would not recommend this book if you are seeking a comprehensive understanding of the pentagram in Wicca.
3. Samantha - ★☆☆☆☆
I have to say, "Significance of the pentagram in wicca" was a complete waste of my time. The author seemed more interested in pushing their personal beliefs and ideologies rather than discussing the actual subject matter. The book felt more like a poorly disguised attempt to convert readers to their own particular brand of Wicca rather than providing an objective analysis of the pentagram's significance. I was hoping for a scholarly exploration of the topic, but it was sorely lacking in substance and reliable sources. I wouldn't recommend this book to anyone truly interested in the subject.