oracoli
Pentacle
The pentacle is a five-pointed star inscribed within a circle, a very ancient symbol present in many cultures (Mesopotamia, Greece, the medieval world). In Western esotericism it is one of the most powerful pentacles, associated with protection and with the balance of the five elements (Spirit, Air, Water, Earth, Fire). It is one of the four suits of the Minor Arcana of tarot (Pentacles or Coins).
Symbolism
The five-pointed star inscribed in the circle represents the human being (with head up, arms to the sides, legs below) and the five elements of the Western magical tradition. When the point is upwards it is a positive symbol of balance; reversed (two points up) it can be considered an opposite symbol, associated with the dark side in Wicca and in some satanic currents.
Tarot of Pentacles
In the Rider-Waite deck the suit of Pentacles is associated with the element Earth: it speaks of matter, money, work, body, home. In traditional Italian tarot it is called "Denari" or "Ori". The iconography shows a coin with an inscribed five-pointed star.
FAQ
Are pentacle and pentagram the same?
Pentagram is the five-pointed star without the circle. Pentacle is the star inscribed in the circle. The terms are often used as synonyms.
Is it a satanic symbol?
The pentacle with the point up is a positive symbol of balance in many traditions. The reversed pentacle (two points up) was adopted as a symbol by Anton LaVey s Church of Satan: only this variant is satanic by explicit choice.
Is it used as an amulet?
Yes, in many magical traditions and in contemporary Wicca it is a common protective amulet.