Of all the details of the Christmas story, the star is the one almost everyone can picture: a light in the night sky leading wise men from the East to the newborn Christ. This guide explains what the Gospel says about the Star of Bethlehem, what it has come to mean for Christians, and why it makes such a meaningful piece of jewelry, with Star of Bethlehem pendants designed in the Holy Land by Marina.
What Does the Bible Say About the Star of Bethlehem?
The star appears in the Gospel of Matthew. After the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem, Magi from the East arrive in Jerusalem asking:
"Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him." Matthew 2:2 (NIV)
Matthew then describes the star going ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was, and the Magi rejoicing when they saw it:
"When they saw the star, they were overjoyed." Matthew 2:10 (NIV)
They entered the house, saw the child with Mary his mother, worshiped him, and offered their gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.
What the Star of Bethlehem Symbolizes
Guidance. The star led the Magi step by step until they found Christ. Worn as jewelry, it is a reminder that God guides those who seek Him.
Hope and light. The star shone in the darkness and announced that the Savior had come. It has become one of the most loved signs of Christmas hope.
Christ Himself. In the Book of Revelation, Jesus calls Himself the Morning Star:
"I am the Root and the Offspring of David, and the bright Morning Star." Revelation 22:16 (NIV)
A welcome for all nations. The Magi were the first visitors from far away to worship Christ. The star reminds Christians that the good news of Christmas is for everyone.
Star of Bethlehem Pendant, 3D Domed
$220
A dimensional, polished star that catches the light from every angle.
Star of Bethlehem Pendant, Open Outline
$120
An open, eight-pointed star cut in outline and polished bright.
Star of Bethlehem Pendant, Large, Blue Enamel & CZ
$240
A large star with blue enamel and a single point of light at its center.
Star of Bethlehem Pendant, Gold-Plated
$110
A warm gold-plated star, a nod to the Magi's gift of gold.
Star of Bethlehem Pendant with Amethyst
$110
A beaded silver star with a violet amethyst at its heart.
Shop all Star of Bethlehem jewelry
Why Is the Star of Bethlehem Often Drawn with Eight Points?
The Gospel does not describe the shape of the star. In Christian art it has been drawn in many ways, and the eight-pointed star is among the most common. The number eight has long been linked with new beginnings in Christian tradition, since Christ rose on the day after the seventh day of the week, the first day of a new creation. Many baptismal fonts are eight-sided for the same reason.
Star of Bethlehem or Star of David?
The two are different symbols. The Star of David is a six-pointed star associated with the Jewish people. The Star of Bethlehem is a Christian symbol of the Nativity, usually shown with eight points or with a long, comet-like tail.
A Gift for Christmas and Epiphany
A Star of Bethlehem pendant is a gift with the whole Nativity story behind it. It suits Christmas, but also Epiphany, when the Church celebrates the visit of the Magi: traditionally January 6, and in the US on the Sunday between January 2 and 8. For more ideas, see our Catholic Christmas gift guide, or read about the meaning of the Miraculous Medal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where in the Bible is the Star of Bethlehem?
In the Gospel of Matthew, chapter 2, which tells the story of the Magi who followed the star to find the newborn Jesus.
Is it appropriate to wear the Star of Bethlehem all year?
Yes. Although it is a Christmas symbol, its meaning of guidance and hope is fitting every day of the year.
What is the best Star of Bethlehem gift?
A pendant is the most popular choice. Sterling silver suits everyday wear, while stones such as Eilat Stone or amethyst make each piece more personal.
