The Moravian Star, also known as the Herrnhut Star, is a decorative ornament that originated in the Moravian Church, a Protestant denomination with its roots in the Bohemian Reformation of the 15th century. The name "Moravian" refers to the region of Moravia, which is now part of the Czech Republic.
The Moravian Star has its beginnings in the Moravian settlement of Herrnhut in Saxony, Germany, in the 18th century. In 1727, a group of religious refugees from Moravia, led by Count Nicolaus Ludwig von Zinzendorf, established a community in Herrnhut. The residents of Herrnhut began creating intricate paper stars as part of their Christmas decorations, symbolizing the Star of Bethlehem.
The tradition of crafting Moravian Stars became popular within the Moravian Church and its communities. Over time, the design evolved, and the stars started being made from various materials, including wood, metal, and plastic. The star typically consists of a series of overlapping points, and its shape can vary from a simple 8-pointed star to more complex designs with additional layers.
While the Moravian Star has its roots in the Christian tradition, its popularity has extended beyond the Moravian Church, and it is now used as a symbol of Christmas and decoration in many cultures and denominations. The star is often placed as a tree topper or used in window displays during the holiday season.
In terms of symbolism, the Moravian Star primarily represents the Star of Bethlehem, which is said to have guided the Magi to the birthplace of Jesus Christ. It serves as a reminder of the religious significance of Christmas and the central role of the Nativity story in Christian belief.
