Moravian star

Herrnhuter Sterne

Herrnhuter Stern Set

19. Moravian Star

Pyramid augmented rhombicuboctahedron

Moravian Star at St. Paul's Roman Catholic Church

Moravian Star is a decorative illumination originating from the Moravian Church, traditionally used in the Advent and Christmas seasons. The star symbolizes the Star of Bethlehem and is a popular Christmas decoration worldwide, known for its distinctive geometric shape and often illuminated from within to cast a warm, inviting glow.

History

The Moravian Star, also known as the Herrnhuter Stern, traces its origins to the Moravian Boarding Schools in Niesky, Germany, in the early 19th century. It was initially crafted as a geometry lesson or project, but soon gained religious significance and became a symbol of the Advent season among the Moravian community. The first stars were made of paper and later versions were constructed from more durable materials like plastic or glass.

Design

The classic Moravian Star is a polyhedron, typically with 26 points, though variations can range from 6 to over 100 points. The most common form is the 26-point star, which consists of 18 square and 8 triangular pyramid-shaped spikes. The assembly of the star, particularly for the traditional paper versions, can be a complex process, often involving folding and gluing numerous pieces together in a precise manner.

Cultural Significance

The Moravian Star transcends its origins, becoming a widespread symbol of the Christmas season. Its use has spread beyond the Moravian Church to be embraced by various Christian denominations and cultures around the world. The star is not only a decoration but also serves as a reminder of the star that guided the Magi to Bethlehem for the birth of Jesus, symbolizing light, hope, and guidance.

Modern Usage

Today, Moravian Stars are found in a variety of settings, from churches and homes to public spaces and Christmas markets. They are made from a range of materials, including paper, plastic, metal, and glass, and vary in size from small ornaments to large outdoor displays. The illumination of a Moravian Star, particularly in outdoor settings, is often an event marking the beginning of the Advent season.

See Also

• Advent
• Christmas decoration
• Star of Bethlehem
• Moravian Church

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