(10/23/05) The pentacle, or pentagram, is an ancient symbol commonly used
in old pre-Christian spiritual traditions. Its existence dates back thousands of years,
appearing in writings in Mesopotamia around 3000 BC, and subsequently adopted
by the Greek philosopher/mathematician Pythagoras and his followers in his learning
communities in Greece and Italy.

The Pythagoreans called the Pentacle "Hugieia" (usually translated as "Health",
but more in the sense of "Soundness, Wholeness"), as well as "Divine Blessings".
"Hugieia" is also associated with "vigor", "vital", and "lively".
Hugieia (Hygeia) was also the name of the Goddess of Health, called Salus by the Romans.
The Pytagoreans used also the word "Hugiaine!", meaning "Be sound / whole / blessed!"
as a greeting or password.
The pentacle then symbolizes sacred, protective and vital energy.