Why Pagans Use Satanic Symbols: Bridging Misunderstandings and Clarifying Symbolic Meanings

For a long time, pagans have been using symbols that often get misconstrued as satanic by theists. This article aims to clarify why these symbols hold significance in pagan traditions and to debunk common misconceptions.

Why Do Theists Call Symbols Used in Other Religions “Satanic”?

The use of symbols in various religions often leads to misunderstandings and unfortunate misinterpretations. Theists, particularly Christians, sometimes use the term “satanic” to describe symbols used in other religious practices. This is largely due to ignorance and a lack of understanding about the historical and cultural context of these symbols.

For example, the pentacle or pentagram has been a symbol of protection and a representation of the elements (earth, air, fire, water, and spirit) long before the concept of Satan was invented. Pagan practices, including Wicca and witchcraft, have been utilizing these symbols for thousands of years, often for protective purposes.

Understanding Pagan Symbols: The Case of the Pentacle

Many pagans have been using the pentacle or pentagram for 35 years in their practices. This symbol, when upright, is a positive and protective sign, symbolizing the four elements and a spiritual connection beyond them.

However, the inverted pentacle has been adopted by some Wiccan traditions as a symbol of initiation and training levels. This inversion is not intended as a satanic symbol; it merely represents different aspects of magical practice. The confusion arises because the media frequently presents pentacles in a sensationalized, fearful context, linking them to evil and rituals. An example of such exploitation is when a friend of the author was beaten up simply for openly wearing a pentacle.

Historical Context and Symbol Meanings

The historical context of these symbols adds to the complexity. The inverted pentacle is also used to represent the five wounds of Christ, a symbol embraced by the Catholic Church during the Middle Ages. Additionally, the septagram or seven-pointed star was a symbol representing the goddess Inanna and her connection to the evening star in ancient Sumer, now part of modern-day Iraq.

These symbols, like many others, have been co-opted or adapted over time. For instance, the septagram has been adopted by ceremonial magicians and some Satanists. Regardless of the context in which they are used, symbols carry diverse meanings and purposes, shaped by their historical and religious backgrounds.

Understanding the intended uses of these symbols is crucial to dispelling misconceptions and promoting respectful dialogue between different religious and cultural practices.