There are a great number of symbols found through out all the various forms of
Paganism. Here are some of the more common symbols you are likely to see.
Pentacle The five-pointed star within a circle is the most common Pagan
symbol, and it is typically used to identify oneself as a Pagan or Wiccan. The five points
represent the 4 elements plus the spirit, and the circle connects them all. A five-pointed
star without the circle is called a pentagram, rather than a pentacle. Based on
numerology, the five points means the pentacle symbolizes the Earth element and can be
used as an Earth symbol on an altar
Septagram / Fairy Star The seven pointed star has a few names:
septagram, septacle, elfin star or fairy star. The number seven corresponds to the spirit
realm, which is why this symbol is associated with elves or fairies. There are no set
representations for each of the points, but they are sometimes labeled: earth, air, fire,
water, above, below and within. The septagram is also associated with astrology.
Triple Moon The triple moon is a Goddess symbol that represents the
Maiden, Mother, and Crone as the waxing, full, and waning moon. It is also associated
with feminine energy, mystery and psychic abilities. You often see this symbol on
jewelry and head-pieces, particularly worn by High Priestesses.
Unicursal Hexagram The unicursal hexagram is a variation of the 6-
pointed star. The more traditional way of drawing a 6-pointed star is in the double
triangles of the Star of David. Aleister Crowley created this design, a symbol that could
be drawn in one continuous line. The number 6 represents unity and balance, specifically
balance between man and the Divine.
Eye of Horus The Eye of Horus can be a bit of a confusing symbol. It is
seen sometimes as the right or sometimes as the left eye. The left eye is Eye of Horus and
is connected with the moon. When it's the right eye, it's the Eye of Ra, and associated
with the sun. Though some sources say there is no distinction at all. The symbol is worn
for protection and to ward off evil spirits.
Ankh The short and traditional meaning for the ankh symbol is "everlasting
life". This symbol is a hieroglyph seen in countless ancient Egyptian carvings, usually
held in hand by Gods and pharaohs to show how they preside over life (immortal). The
ankh is a popular symbol among Pagans, likely due to the similarity to a Christian cross
which makes the ankh much less shocking, as compared to a pentacle.
Hecate's Wheel This maze-like symbol is associated with the triple aspect
of the Greek goddess Hecate. She is considered a 'dark' goddess by some and rules over
cross-roads and the Underworld. Hecate is also known as the Goddess of the Witches.
This isn't a particularly common symbol among Wiccans, but you do see it occasionally.
Inverted Pentacle The inverted (or upside down) pentacle is a symbol of
some reputation. It is typically associated with Satanism, but that is not a completely
accurate description. The true emblem of the Church of Satan is the sigil of Baphomet,
which is a symbol with a goat's head and an inverted pentacle. Within Wicca, the upside
down pentacle stands for the 2nd degree.
Triquetra Like the triskele, this Celtic symbol embodies the sacred number 3,
as seen in the 3 phases of the Goddess (maiden, mother, crone) and the 3 elements of
nature (land, sky, sea). During the period of early Christianity, the Triquetra took on the
meaning as the Holy Trinity.
Triskele / Triple Spiral There are many variations on the basic triskele (or
triple spiral) symbol. The one illustrated here is very simple to illustrate the basic look of
the symbol. The triskele is a Celtic symbol, and symbolizes the power of life and rebirth.
It combines the spiral (often used to illustrate the cycle of life) and the number 3 is a
sacred number, as seen in the phases of the triple Goddess.
Necronomicon The symbol I'm referring to is on the cover of the Simon
translation of the Necronomicon. This complicated star design is not a symbol from
antiquity and is as fictional as the book itself. So this really isn't a Pagan symbol at all,
but one that represents occult folklore.
