Stars and Symbols: Understanding the Star of David and Other Star Shapes

By Violette Blue, 07.10.2025

Star symbols have been part of human culture for thousands of years, each shape carrying its own history, meaning, and spiritual weight. Among the most recognized are the five-pointed pentagram, the six-pointed hexagram (Star of David), the seven-pointed heptagram, and the eight-pointed octagram. Yet, confusion and misunderstanding often arise, especially when these stars get mixed up or misused—sometimes even to the point of disrespect.

The Star of David: A Symbol of Faith and Divine Strength

The six-pointed star without a circle, known as the Star of David, is deeply rooted in Jewish tradition. It honors King David, the young shepherd who trusted God and defeated the giant Goliath with a simple slingshot. This star represents faith in the one true God, divine protection, and strength that comes from trust and courage. Though it gained global fame when placed on Israel’s flag in 1948, its history extends far back into ancient Jewish writings and identity.

Contrary to some mistaken claims, the Star of David is not a symbol of false gods or paganism. Such confusion often happens because people mix it up with other stars used in occult or pagan rituals, but the hexagram’s meaning stands apart and is clear in its faith-based origins.

The Pentagram: Five Points and Varied Meanings

The pentagram, a five-pointed star, is often associated with occult and witchcraft traditions, especially when drawn inverted inside a circle. Its symbolism ranges widely, from protection to magical practices. The pentagram’s shape and cultural context are very different from the Star of David, yet the two are sometimes conflated, leading to misinformation.

The Octagram and the Star of Remphan: Eight Points and Ancient Myths

The eight-pointed star, or octagram, is linked historically to figures like the Roman god Saturn and the Babylonian goddess Ishtar. The “Star of Remphan,” mentioned in biblical texts, is believed to be an eight-pointed star associated with idolatry and false gods. This star’s shape and background are distinct from the six-pointed Star of David.

Mixing these symbols is like confusing different languages—just because they share a star shape doesn’t mean they share meaning or origin. The Star of David cannot be equated to the Star of Remphan, despite some claims.

The Seven-Pointed Star: Heptagram or Septagram

The seven-pointed star holds special meaning in both Christianity and paganism. In Christianity, it symbolizes the seven days of creation, divine perfection, and the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit. In Wicca and pagan beliefs, it’s called the “Fairy Star,” representing mystical realms, the elements, and spiritual gateways.

Like other stars, the heptagram’s meanings are unique and should be respected for their origins rather than being twisted or misused.

Circles and Ritual Use: Changing the Meaning

In some spiritual practices, particularly in witchcraft, circles are drawn around stars as sacred boundaries for ritual protection and power. When a circle is placed around a six-pointed star, it alters the symbol’s meaning and intent. Some see this as a form of spiritual appropriation—taking the original authority of the Star of David and repurposing it for personal or magical gain.

Visually imagining a witch sitting inside a circled six-pointed star highlights this claim of control or conquest over the symbol. It’s a twisting of a sacred emblem, turning a symbol of faith into a tool for ritual manipulation.

Why Respecting These Distinctions Matters

Confusing or mixing these star symbols spreads misinformation and disrespects the cultures and faiths that hold them sacred. The Star of David, in particular, is a symbol with a rich, ancient history and eyewitnessed legacy. It stands apart from other star shapes associated with paganism or occultism.

The misuse or misunderstanding of these symbols often comes from a lack of knowledge or deliberate appropriation. It’s important to recognize these differences and honor the original meanings—using these symbols for good, not to twist or steal their power.

In Conclusion

Star symbols are powerful because of their stories and traditions, not just their shapes. From the six-pointed Star of David’s deep roots in faith and divine strength to the varied meanings of the pentagram, heptagram, and octagram, each star tells its own story.

Respecting these stories means resisting the urge to blur lines or claim authority that doesn’t belong. The Star of David remains one of the most reliable and historically grounded star symbols—a beacon of faith that deserves to be understood clearly and honored sincerely.