: From a distance it looks like a strip-tease dancer's
: "pasty," but when viewed in close-up, in fact, it
: is a distinct and definite EMBLEM, medallion or badge !!
: What, precisely, this eight-pointed Solar medallion or star
: is supposed to mean ... is a separate question ( which I
: urge all of our News Agents to explore and consider ).
Found here (among the Wiccans):
http://www.tween-the-shadows.com/magick/symbols_magick/8_pointed_star_octagram.php
...is this:
The 8-Pointed Star or Octagram corresoponds to the Wheel of the Year and the 8 Sabbats of Wiccan and Pagan traditions. It is representative of the cycle of time and the power of regeneration and return. 8 is also the number of harvest, allowing you to reap the seeds you have sown in the past and gain from your projects and learning.
...and relatedly over here (among the Amish):
http://www.amishnews.com/hexsigns/8pointedstar.htm
...is this:
One of the more familiar geometric hex signs is the 8 Pointed Star. It features a large, eight-pointed star usually blue in color. Nestled between the star’s points are alternating red tulips and stylized sheaves of wheat. A smaller eight-pointed star forms the design center. The stars and sheaves of wheat symbolize abundance and goodwill. The tulips provide faith and trust in mankind. Overall, this design ensures abundance in our lives and goodwill to all. Its striking appearance and design clarity make it a popular choice for decorating large buildings.
Over here (a crafts site):
http://www.craftsonline.com/americancraftsonline/8poinstarsco.html
...they're offering a "Scottish sporan" with an 8-pointed star design.
However, MORE INTERESTING IS THIS REFERENCE TO "THE 8-POINTED STAR OF THE ESSENES" (Venus, it says) - this page is a little too esoteric for me to try quoting much of it; those who feel moved to do so can surf over and read the material here:
http://www.stichtingtrinity.nl/Trinity/Britxt/B02archeo.htm
...and in part it says:
The meaning of the octagram: it is the expression of the "Law of Cause and Effect". Those two are inextricably tied together: "What ye sow, ye shall reap". (compare with Karma / Wheel of life) That makes the number 8 the number of fate, destiny and justice.Transformative qualities are: resurrection, immortality and prosperity.
So, everyone seems agreed to this degree: the 8-pointed star symbolizes something to do with Completion, and with Harvest.
Helps...?
--hobie
