Tools of the Trade Series, Pentagram

Pentagram by Skye AlexanderThe pentagram is a five-pointed star with a circle around it. An important symbol of protection, it's often used in magic ceremonies. Sometimes it's drawn in the air as part of a circle-casting ritual, sometimes pentagrams are positioned at the four compass points. In ceremonies it may be painted with essential oil on the foreheads of the people taking part in the ritual. Many magicians, especially followers of Wicca, wear pentagrams as protection amulets. Some hang a pentagram beside their front doors to keep their homes safe. If you have an altar, you may wish to place a pentagram there where it can continue sending out protective vibrations to your home and your housemates.

A representative of the earth element, the star stands for the five “points” of the human body: the head, arms, and legs. It is linked with the feminine force, therefore it's best to choose a pentagram made of silver, a feminine metal ruled by the moon, or copper, which is ruled by Venus. In the tarot, the symbol appears as the suit of pentacles (sometimes called coins or discs), and astrologers associate it with the earth signs Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn.

Since the 1800s, the Texas Rangers have worn badges shaped like pentagrams over their hearts. This powerful protection symbol may have saved more than one lawman's life. Today, Texans prominently display pentagrams on their homes, businesses, and public buildings, although most people don't realize the symbol's true meaning.

Pentagrams can be used in conjunction with other magic tools and charms. You might choose to adorn your wand, chalice, or athame with a pentagram, for instance. Carve a pentagram on a candle as part of a protection spell. Embroider one on an amulet pouch or draw one on a piece of paper and slip it inside a charm bag. This attractive symbol can also serve as a decorative motif for jewelry or clothing.

On a day when the sun and moon are in earth signs, charge your pentagram by anointing it with essential oil of mint, pine, patchouli, amber, or basil. Place it in a waterproof container, and bury it beneath a tree for a week. At the end of the week, dig it up and tell it how you want it to work with you. Either wear your pentagram or wrap it in green silk and store it in a safe place until you're ready to use it.

Each of these tools has its own, unique purpose. The four primary tools — the wand, pentagram, chalice, and athame — relate to the four elements. They're also pictured as the four suits of the tarot. Consider your tools sacred and don't let anyone else handle them or use them to practice magic.

For this swap you will create or purchase for your partner a pentacle that can be used in magical spells as one of the Tools of the Trade. You should do your best work. This is not a kids toy, it's a work of art and something you would enjoy receiving.

Please no flaking or you'll be banned from the group. I've given plenty of time to create your work of art and mail to your partner. Make it your best effort and most of all have fun. Any recent 1's or 3's must have pre-approval before signing up for the swap. I'll judge it on a case by case basis.

This will be the second in a series of Tools of the Trade swaps. Although you don't really need any tools to perform spells and rituals, most magicians employ several special pieces of equipment as aids in their magical work.