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Astrology

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Categories: Astrology | Systems | Divination

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 +[[Image:Chart_astrology.gif|right|frame|An example of a natal chart, showing the relationship of the planets and signs of the Zodiac at the time of birth]]'''Astrology''' (from Greek: αστρολογία = άστρον, astron, "star" + λόγος, logos, "word") is any of several traditions or systems in which knowledge of the apparent positions of celestial bodies is held to be useful in understanding, interpreting and organizing knowledge about reality and human existence on earth. All are based on the relative positions and movements of various real and construed celestial bodies, chiefly the Sun, Moon, planets, and lunar nodes as seen at the time and place of the birth or other event being studied. A practitioner of astrology is termed an astrologer, though they are sometimes referred to as an astrologist.
-[[Image:Astrological_Chart_-_New_Millennium.JPG|thumb|right|An [[Natal chart|astrological chart]] (or [[horoscope]]) - [[Y2K]] Chart — This particular chart is calculated for [[January 1st]], [[2000]] at 12:01:00 A.M. [[Eastern Standard Time]] in [[New York City]], [[New York (state)|New York]], [[USA]]. (Longitude: 074W00'23" - Latitude: 40N42'51")]] +Many of those who practice astrology believe that the positions of certain celestial bodies either influence, or correlate with but do not influence, people's personality traits, important events in their lives, and even physical characteristics.
-'''Astrology''' (from [[Greek language|Greek]]:  +
-αστρολογία = άστρον, ''astron'', "star" + λόγος, ''[[logos]]'', "word") is any of several traditions or systems in which knowledge of the apparent positions of celestial bodies is held to be useful in understanding, interpreting and organizing knowledge about reality and human existence on earth. All are based on the relative positions and movements of various real and construed [[celestial body|celestial bodies]], chiefly the [[Sun]], [[Moon]], [[planet]]s, and [[lunar node]]s as seen at the time and place of the [[childbirth|birth]] or other event being studied. A practitioner of astrology is termed an '''astrologer''', though they are sometimes referred to as an '''astrologist'''.+
-Many of those who practice astrology believe that the positions of certain celestial bodies either influence, or correlate with but do not influence, people's [[personality]] traits, important events in their lives, and even physical characteristics. +For many astrologers the purported relationship between the celestial bodies and events on earth need not be causal, nor even scientific. Although there are astrologers who try to put astrology on sound scientific principles, for many more it is a technology and an art that merges calculations with intuitive perceptions. Some believe that the core principles of astrology are based upon the ancient [[Emerald Tablet|Hermetic maxim]]: ''As Above, So Below.''
- +
-For many astrologers the purported relationship between the celestial bodies and events on earth need not be [[causal]], nor even [[scientific]]. Although there are astrologers who try to put astrology on sound scientific principles, for many more it is a technology and an art that merges calculations with [[intuition|intuitive]] perceptions. Some believe that the core principles of astrology are based upon the ancient [[Hermeticism|Hermetic]] [[Proverb|maxim]]: ''As Above, So Below''. The famous [[astronomer]]/[[astrologer]] [[Tycho Brahe]] also used a similar phrase to justify his studies in astrology: ''Suspiciendo despicio'' - "By looking up I see downward."+
==Description== ==Description==
-In past centuries astrology often relied on close observation of astronomical objects and the charting of their movements which might be considered a [[protoscience]] in this regard. In modern times astrologers have tended to rely on data drawn up by [[astronomers]] and set out in a set of tables called an [[ephemeris]] which shows the changing positions of the heavenly bodies through time. 
-Central to all astrology is the [[natal chart]] (other names for this diagram in [[English language|English]] include [[horoscope]], natus, nativity, astrological chart, map, birth chart, cosmogram, or simply ''chart''). This is a diagrammatic representation in 2 dimensions of the celestial bodies' apparent positions in the heavens from the vantage of a location on [[Earth]] at a given time and place. Interpretation of a natal chart is governed by:+In past centuries astrology often relied on close observation of astronomical objects and the charting of their movements, which might be considered a protoscience in this regard. In modern times astrologers have tended to rely on data drawn up by astronomers and set out in a set of tables called an ephemeris which shows the changing positions of the heavenly bodies through time.
-*[[astrological aspect]]s: the positions of the heavenly bodies relative to each other, +Central to all astrology is the [[Chart (astrology)|natal chart]] (other names for this diagram in English include [[horoscope]], natus, nativity, astrological chart, map, birth chart, cosmogram, or simply chart). This is a diagrammatic representation in 2 dimensions of the celestial bodies' apparent positions in the heavens from the vantage of a location on Earth at a given time and place. Interpretation of a natal chart is governed by:
-*their positions relative to the [[astrological sign]]s of the [[zodiac]],  +
-*their positions relative to the [[horizon]] (the [[ascendant]]), [[zenith]] and [[nadir]], and in one of the systems of [[house (astrology)|astrological houses]].+
-Common traditions of astrology include [[Western astrology]], [[Chinese astrology]], [[Jyotish]] ([[Vedic]] astrology) and [[Kabbalistic astrology]]. All of these can be subdivided by type, such as [[natal astrology]] (the study of a person's birth, or [[natal chart]]), [[horary astrology]] (a chart drawn up to answer a specific question), and [[electional astrology]] astrology (a chart drawn up ahead of time to determine the best moment to begin an enterprise or undertaking). [[Mundane astrology|Mundane astrologers]] believe correlations exist between geological phenomena (such as [[earthquake|earthquakes]], [[volcano|volcanic eruptions]], etc.) and [[astronomical]] phenomena (the movement of celestial bodies in relation to [[Earth]]). [[Political astrology]] has existed for thousands of years as well, while some astrologers use ancient methods which are supposed to be able to predict the [[weather]] and weather-related phenomena ([[storm]]s, [[floods]], etc.), which is collectively known as [[Meteorological astrology|meteorological astrology]].+* Astrological aspects: the positions of the heavenly bodies relative to each other. 
 +* Their positions relative to the astrological signs of the zodiac. 
 +* Their positions relative to the horizon (the ascendant), zenith and nadir, and in one of the systems of astrological houses.
-Astrology has had an influence on the English language. [[Influenza]] was so named because [[physician|doctors]] once believed it to be caused by unfavorable planetary and stellar influences. The word "''disaster''" comes from the Latin "''dis-aster''" meaning "''bad star''".+Common traditions of astrology include Western astrology, Chinese astrology, Jyotish (Vedic astrology) and Kabbalistic astrology. All of these can be subdivided by type, such as natal astrology (the study of a person's birth, or natal chart), horary astrology (a chart drawn up to answer a specific question), and electional astrology (a chart drawn up ahead of time to determine the best moment to begin an enterprise or undertaking). Mundane astrologers believe correlations exist between geological phenomena (such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, etc.) and astronomical phenomena (the movement of celestial bodies in relation to Earth). Political astrology has existed for thousands of years as well, while some astrologers use ancient methods that are supposed to be able to predict the weather and weather-related phenomena (storms, floods, etc.), which is collectively known as meteorological astrology.
-A few Western but all [[Jyotish]] ([[Hindu]]) astrologers use the [[sidereal zodiac]] which uses the true astronomical positions of the stars. The majority of Western astrologers base their work on the [[tropical zodiac]] which uses a view of the heavens as seen 2000 years ago.+A few Western but all Jyotish (Hindu) astrologers use the sidereal zodiac that uses the true astronomical positions of the stars. The majority of Western astrologers base their work on the tropical zodiac that uses a view of the heavens as seen 2000 years ago.
-==The Cases For and Against== +==Overview== 
-Astrology is a controversial subject with many voices speaking both for and against its recognition as a valid field of study. The case ''for'' and the case ''against'' astrology are presented here:+{{astrology}} 
 +Astrology provides a direct link to some of the longest held human beliefs. Its continued appeal may rest on its ability to link an individual's life to the wider cosmos and so give a feeling of uniqueness, meaning and of connection to the totality of things. Astrology also makes use of basic, archetypal qualities found universally throughout humanity, and some people find it a useful intuitive tool with which to describe themselves, others, and the relationships between them.
-===The case for astrology=== +Most serious astrologers scorn trivial horoscope predictions supplied by newspapers as nothing but a way to entertain readers. Serious astrologers see all popular astrology in which people are labeled on the basis of their sun sign alone as frivolous and not worthy of defense. The sun sign is regarded as but one of many factors, which must be taken into account when interpreting one's horoscope.
-Astrology provides a direct link to some of the longest held human beliefs. Its continued appeal may rest on its ability to link an individual's life to the wider [[cosmos]] and so give a feeling of uniqueness, meaning and of connection to the totality of things. Astrology also makes use of basic, [[archetype|archetypal]] qualities found universally throughout humanity, and some people find it a useful [[intuition|intuitive]] tool with which to describe themselves, others, and the relationships between them.+
-Anyone can set themselves up as an astrologer, so there is a wide range in ability and approach. Some serious astrologers may be members of a society that tries to maintain standards of learning and conduct; others may be lone hobbyists. +An individual astrological reading by a skilled astrologer—or by the individual himself or herself if he or she is well-versed enough in astrology—is thought to provide a way for the individual to divine his or her own feelings about the present, and to better understand his or her own personality. This can give the individual the opportunity to understand those feelings and patterns of behavior, which may be barriers to possible futures, and so change their actions in the present to bring about a desired future. In this respect it is more closely linked to tarot, [[I Ching]] and modern psychotherapy than to astronomy.
- +
-Most serious astrologers scorn trivial horoscope predictions supplied by [[newspaper]]s as nothing but a way to entertain readers. All popular astrology in which people are labelled on the basis of their sun sign alone is seen by serious astrologers as frivolous and not worthy of defence. The sun sign is regarded as but one of many factors which must be taken into account when interpreting one's horoscope. +
- +
-An individual astrological reading by a skilled astrologer - or by the individual himself or herself if he or she is well-versed enough in astrology - is thought to provide a way for the individual to divine his or her own feelings about the present, and to better understand his or her own [[personality]]. This can give the individual the opportunity to understand those feelings and patterns of behavior which may be barriers to possible futures, and so change their actions in the present to bring about a desired future. In this respect it is more closely linked to [[tarot]], [[I Ching]] and modern [[psychotherapy]] than to [[astronomy]].+
An individual is always seen as the ultimate master of their destiny, and given sufficient will and purpose, as being able to overcome the most adverse astrological indications. However, the degree of struggle necessary will depend on the astrological circumstances in which they enact their project. An individual is always seen as the ultimate master of their destiny, and given sufficient will and purpose, as being able to overcome the most adverse astrological indications. However, the degree of struggle necessary will depend on the astrological circumstances in which they enact their project.
-Most astrologers make no claim to be practicing a science and see their skill as an art which gives a structure to a dialogue with their client. An astrologer's success would need to be measured in terms of the happiness and well-being of their subjects rather than the mechanical prediction of events. Astrology has, however, taken on new astronomical concepts as they have been discovered and added its own symbolism to them. Thus the [[outer planets]] discovered since [[1781]], because of their slow movement across the [[zodiac]], sit in the same position in the charts of whole generations. They have been assigned a role in interpreting the processes of large groups; of nations, institutions, ideas, beliefs and the generations themselves.+Most astrologers make no claim to be practicing a science and see their skill as an art, which gives a structure to a dialogue with their client. An astrologer's success would need to be measured in terms of the happiness and well being of their subjects rather than the mechanical prediction of events. Astrology has, however, taken on new astronomical concepts as they have been discovered and added its own symbolism to them. Thus the outer planets discovered since 1781, because of their slow movement across the zodiac, sit in the same position in the charts of whole generations. They have been assigned a role in interpreting the processes of large groups; of nations, institutions, ideas, beliefs and the generations themselves.
-Many people use the fact that there are 13 constellations along the modern-day astronomical ecliptic and not twelve to try and discredit or otherwise disprove astrology. Of the 13 modern signs of the [[zodiac]] (constellations of the [[ecliptic]]), [[Ophiuchus]] is the only one which is not counted as an [[astrological sign]] because Ophiuchus was only added to the astronomical zodiac by the [[International Astronomical Union]] in [[1930]] when it based its zodiac on the [[1875]] [[equinox]]. The [[constellation]]s were hastily redrawn in 1930 to include a very small portion of Ophiuchus on the [[ecliptic]], possibly in an attempt to try and discredit astrology and [[astrologer]]s, though scientists at the time claimed that the redrawing took place for the sake of simplicity. According to the official boundaries of constellations first set out in 1930, the ecliptic now also passes through a thirteenth constellation, Ophiuchus (Serpent-Bearer), but before 1930 the ecliptic never passed through this constellation.+The 12-sign astrological zodiac has been in place for well over 2000 years and is still used by most Western astrologers, while Ophiuchus has only been located along the astronomical ecliptic for the past 75 years or so. In astrology, the size of the actual astronomical constellations is a non-issue because most Western astrologers use the tropical zodiac, where the ecliptic is divided into 12 equal portions exactly 30 degrees each to get the 12 astrological signs. (12 signs x 30 degrees each sign = the 360 degrees of the ecliptic) The beginning of the astrological year is the beginning of Spring in the Northern Hemisphere (the vernal equinox) and not when the Sun crosses an arbitrary dividing line drawn up in modern times to denote where the sign of Aries begins.
-The 12 (equal) sign astrological zodiac has been in place for well over 2000 years and is still used by most Western astrologers, while Ophiuchus has only been located along the astronomical ecliptic for the past 75 years or so. In astrology, the size of the actual astronomical constellations is a non-issue because most Western astrologers use the [[tropical zodiac]], where the ecliptic is divided into 12 equal portions exactly 30 degrees each to get the 12 astrological signs. (12 signs x 30 degrees each sign = the 360 degrees of the ecliptic) The beginning of the astrological year is the beginning of [[Spring (season)|Spring]] in the [[Northern Hemisphere]] (the [[vernal equinox]]) and not when the [[Sun]] crosses an arbitrary dividing line drawn up in modern times to denote where the sign of [[Aries]] begins. See also the [[First Point of Aries]].+==Elements of astrology==
-===The case against astrology=== +Unlike the daily horoscope in the newspaper, astrology is very complex with many components. These include (but are not limited to): [[Planet (astrology)|the planets]], the 12 signs of the [[Zodiac|Zodiac]], [[Aspect (astrology)|aspects]], [[House (astrology)|houses]], [[elements]] (air, earth, fire, & water), [[Quality (astrology)|qualities]] (cardinal, fixed, & mutable), the ascendant, [[Motion (astrology)|retrograde motion]], other [[Heavenly bodies (astrology)|heavenly bodies]] (asteroids, fixed stars, & large moons), [[Motion (astrology)|transits]] and [[Motion (astrology)|returns]], [[Orb (astrology)|orbs]], [[Equinox|equinoxes]] & [[Solstice|solstices]]. Below are brief descriptions of the major components.
-Astrology, like other forms of [[pseudoscience]], tries to lay claim to the prestige of science without submitting itself to the discipline of the [[scientific method]]. The key is [[falsifiability]]. Some believers in astrology consult a horoscope published in a newspaper, which claims to make predictions for the coming day. Newspapers often publish horoscope columns with the title "Astrological Forecast," implying that they should be considered on the same footing with weather forecasts. However, astrology has failed carefully designed empirical tests of its predictive claims,[http://home.wxs.nl/~skepsis/astrot.html] unlike [[meteorology]], which, although not always correct, has been proved to be statistically more accurate than random guessing. +
-As is often the case with [[pseudoscience]], the practitioners of astrology respond to such disproof either by changing their claims, or by refusing to accept the [[scientific method]] as a valid test of their claims. As an example of changing their claims, some astrologers may say that astrology is only useful when the astrologer can have personal contact with the client, in which case the newspaper astrology columns should be abolished. If, on the other hand, the [[scientific method]] is to be rejected entirely, the problem is that astrologers do not agree on any alternative method of determining whether a particular astrological method is any more or less correct than any other.+For a more detailed discussion of the technical aspects of astrology, see [[Components of Astrology]].
-There are also some specific criticisms about methodology that scientists make of astrologers. Almost all modern astrologers eschew direct observation in favour of specially constructed astrological [[ephemeris]]. +===The Planets=== 
 +[[Image:Planetssigns.gif|right]] 
 +The planets include the seven "classical" planets—Sol, Mercury, Venus, Luna, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn—plus the modern additions of Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto. The following is a general description of their characteristics:
-:*The [[tropical zodiac]] system used by most astrologers in the west does not align with the stars they claim to study. When astrologers say a planet is in a particular sign they are not talking about the set of stars which an observer can go out at night and observe, they are talking about a hypothetical position in the sky which once coincided with that constellation 2000 years ago. The precession of the Earth's axis as it rotates means that all stars in the sky have, over 2000 years, apparently moved their positions by 24 degrees when seen by an observer on Earth. While scientists know and understand this astrologers have decided to ignore it. The result is that most of the time when an astrologer says a planet is in one sign, a scientist will know it is in fact in the next one.+*'''[[Sun (astrology)|Sun]]'''—the inner core of a person or situation, the deepest self and influential power. 
 +*'''[[Mercury (astrology)|Mercury]]'''—reason, intelligence; writing, orderliness, education, skill. 
 +*'''[[Venus (astrology)|Venus]]'''—beauty, allure, pleasure, relationships and eroticism. 
 +*'''[[Luna (astrology)|Luna]]'''—feelings and emotions; illusion; imagination. 
 +*'''[[Mars (astrology)|Mars]]'''—action, spontaneity, aggression, and drive. 
 +*'''[[Jupiter (astrology)|Jupiter]]'''—expansiveness and growth; justice, fortune. 
 +*'''[[Saturn (astrology)|Saturn]]'''—discipline, responsibility, limitations, and resistance; law and order; caution and reserve. 
 +*'''[[Uranus (astrology)|Uranus]]'''—technology, the future, science, innovation, radical change, the unexpected. 
 +*'''[[Neptune (astrology)|Neptune]]'''—inspiration, spirituality, magick, enchantment, dreams, altered states. 
 +*'''[[Pluto (astrology)|Pluto]]'''—power, metamorphosis, change and rebirth, cycles of dying and becoming.
-:*Astrologers who use the tropical zodiac, as almost all in the west do, take an arbitrary point in the past as the basis for their interpretation of the heavens. The zodiac of 2000 years ago holds no special place in astronomy. If we go back 4000 years we find Taurus was the constellation of the Vernal equinox , go back 6000 and Gemini was. Astronomers understand that the view of the heavens continually changes over long periods of time while astrologers use a fixed and inaccurate version of reality.+====Retrograde Motion====
-:*Astrologers assume that all the constellations on the zodiac are of equal size of 30 degrees when in fact there is considerable variation from 44 degrees across for Virgo to 20 degrees across for Cancer. +At times, because of an elliptical orbit, some planets appear to move backwards in the sky. This backwards movement is referred to as "retrograde" motion. There is no consensus regarding the effects of a planet going retrograde, although some astrologers believe it does have a general affect on a planet's influence.
-:*The constellation [[Ophiuchus]], the serpent holder, was recognised by the ancient Greeks, and lies on the Zodiac. It contains the sun once a year and the planets at various other times. Yet astrologers ignore it.+===The Zodiac=== 
 +[[Image:Zodiacsigns.gif|right]] 
 +The Zodiac refers to the twelve constellations that fall on the plane of the ecliptic (the path the sun takes across the sky over the course of the year). The following is a general description of their characteristics:
-Astronomers dispute the existence of some and claim others are trivial well-understood relationships despite irrelevance to astronomy. Scientific verification of the existence of astrological influences have yielded negative <!-- 0 OR -x; ZERO OR NEGATIVE? --> results in ''most'', but not ''all'', cases. <!-- Previous claim requires proof. Which cases? Cite your source, please. --> Scientists claim the effect of [[tidal forces]] is too weak over a small area, such as the [[human body]], to have influence on [[biological]] [[organisms]]. Astrologers counter that [[gravity]] may not be the mechanism of astrological phenomena, whereupon the opponents dispute the existence of [[correlation]]s.+*'''[[Aries]]'''—"I want," action oriented, pioneering, assertive, enthusiasm, competitive 
 +*'''[[Taurus]]'''—"I have," sensual, cautious, stubborn, physical 
 +*'''[[Gemini]]'''—";I think," curious, talkative, sociable, duality, mercurial, intelligent 
 +*'''[[Cancer]]'''—"I feel," sensitive, tenacious, family and home oriented, helpful, nurturing, moody 
 +*'''[[Leo]]'''— "I am," passionate, dramatic, independent, noble, leader, egotistical, selfish 
 +*'''[[Virgo]]'''—"I serve," practical, analytical, work and service oriented, critical, common sense, orderly 
 +*'''[[Libra]]'''—"We are," partnerships, balance, grace, charm, cooperative, social, ideas, lazy, kidneys/lumbar 
 +*'''[[Scorpio]]'''—"I desire," intense, controlling, sexual, compulsive, deep, secretive, mysterious, obsessive 
 +*'''[[Sagittarius]]'''—"I seek," philosophic, fun-loving, adventurous, blundering, wanderlust, scattered 
 +*'''[[Capricorn]]'''—"I build," ambitious, cautious, authoritative, cunning, competent, stable, saturnine 
 +*'''[[Aquarius]]'''—"I know," friendships, cause-oriented, the group, society, progressive, eccentric, aloof 
 +*'''[[Pisces]]'''—"I believe," feeling, duality, spirituality, soul growth, suffering, artistic, overly emotional
-==History of astrology== +===Houses===
-''See main article at [[History of astrology]]''+
-The belief in a connection between the heavenly bodies and the lives of people has played an important part in human history.+Most astrological systems divide the astrological chart (or natal chart) into twelve [[House (astrology)|houses]], which depend more on the time and place of birth (or initiation) than on the date. To calculate the houses of a chart it is necessary to know the exact time of birth. If the time of birth is unknown some astrologers will assume a birth at noon or sunrise, but an meaningful interpretation of such a chart cannot be expected.
-For the overwhelming bulk of [[human history]], [[astrology and astronomy]] were regarded as one and the same subject, with a distinction being made between "natural astrology" (the study of the motions of the heavenly bodies, timing of [[eclipse|eclipses]], etc.) and "judicial astrology" (the study of the supposed correlations between the positions of various celestial objects and the affairs of human beings). +There are many ways to divide the ecliptic into twelve houses. The main House systems are: Placidus (the most common), Equal, Whole, Regiomontanus, Meridian, Campanus, Porphyry, Koch, Topocentric.
-[[Isidore of Seville]] (d. [[636]]) was one of the first to +The houses are departments of life, described in terms of man's physical surroundings as well as personal life experiences, and in modern astrology have some correspondence with their natural sign, i.e. the first house has a natural affinity with the first sign, Aries, and so on. (However the latter is not true in ancient astrology* where the rulership of select Houses is held by the Planetary Joys also known as the Joys of the Houses**, not the Zodiac.)
-distinguish between astronomy and astrology. However, astronomy did not begin to be separated from astrology until the [[16th century]], when, with the system of [[Copernicus]], the conviction that the [[Earth]] itself is one of the heavenly bodies was finally established.+
-The study of astrology and the belief in it, as part of astronomy, is found in a developed form among the ancient [[Babylonians]]; and directly or indirectly through the Babylonians, it spread to other nations. It came to [[Greece]] about the middle of the 4th century B.C., and reached [[Rome]] before the opening of the [[Christian era]]. +The following is a general description of their characteristics:
-In [[India]] and [[China]], astronomy and astrology are largely reflections of [[Greek]] theories and speculations; and similarly with the introduction of Greek culture into [[Egypt]], both astronomy and astrology were actively cultivated in the region of the [[Nile]] during the [[Hellenistic]] and [[Roman]] periods. Astrology was further developed by the [[Arabs]] from the [[7th century|7th]] to the [[13th century]], and in the [[Europe]] of the [[14th century|14th]] and [[15th century|15th centuries]] astrologers were dominating influences at court. +*'''First house''': (Self) Identity, self-image, movement and expression, physical appearance, and the impact of the personality on the environment. This is the way you present yourself, and how you start things. Planets here may also indicate the manner of one's birth. 
 +*'''Second house''': (Resources) Values, substance, money, possessions, security, stability, the here and now, sense of self-worth, emotional resources, rewards, comfort, inner talents and resources. Also "Gate from Hades" (opposite 8th House) surfacing with gems from the earth. House of Typhon. Profession of Children (10th from 5th) 
 +*'''Third house''': (Short Journies, Siblings, Car) Habits. awareness, mental expression, early schooling, siblings, attitudes, daily life, companions, all forms of communication and short journeys, adaptability to new ideas, ability to relate to one's surroundings and environment. 
 +*'''Fourth house''': (Home, Father) foundations, inheritance, domestic matters, heritage, roots, and sources of nourishment. 
 +*'''Fifth house''': (Love Affairs, Children) Pregnancy, anything added or taken away from the fourth house, ego, creative expression, play, sports, gambling, attitude to change. 
 +*'''Sixth house''': (Daily Toil, Health/Illness, Pets) Housework, employment and employees, attitude to work, general health, purification, ritual, habits, hobbies. 
 +*'''Seventh house''': (Marriage and Partnerships) "The Other", awareness of others, how one relates to people. 
 +*'''Eighth house''': (Death, Taxes, Other People's Money), Loss, Resources of the 7th house, "Gate of Hades", Joint or shared resources, sex, regeneration, emotional union. 
 +*'''Ninth house''': (Long Journies, House of God) Travel, religion, search for meaning, higher education, goals and aspirations, seeking and finding. Things which take a long time to achieve. 
 +*'''Tenth house''': (Career, Fame and Honors, Mother) Public image, profession, persona, reputation, values and standards, ideals, how one would like to project oneself. 
 +*'''Eleventh house''': (Friends and Organizations) Those from which the fame and honors of the 10th are founded, social values and concerns, groups and group awareness, hopes and dreams, attitude to humanity. 
 +*'''Twelfth house''': (Mystery, Mysticism, Self-Undoing, Institutions) Hidden motives, confinement, retreat, self-transcendence, service and sacrifice, karma, escapism, charity. Hospitals, Prisons.
-A most important application of [[mathematics]] during the [[Middle Ages]] was in astrology; astrologers were called ''mathematici''. Inasmuch as the practice of [[medicine]] was based largely on astrological determination of the proper treatment, [[physician]]s had to become [[mathematicians]], and thus astrologers as well.+(*)Footnote: The house system developed with the Greeks and added a separate context layer attributed to the area of ones life on top of an already developed zodiacal and planetary system rooted in Egypt and Babylon.
-Even up to the present day, men of intellectual eminence have convinced themselves that astrology has a foundation of truth, just as there are still believers in [[chiromancy]] or other forms of [[divination]]. +(**)Footnote: Joys of the Houses: 1st=Mercury, 3rd=Moon, 5th=Venus, 6th=Mars, 9th=Sun, 11th=Jupiter, 12th=Saturn
-There is an obvious tendency, however, for +===Aspects===
-astrology to be employed, like [[palmistry]], as a means of imposing on the ignorant and credulous. The generally established belief of the scientific community is that astrology is either mere [[superstition]] or absolute imposture, and that its vogue is due either to willful deception or to fatuous, unscientific gullibility.+
-==Relationship to astronomy and science== +The angular relationships between the planets as they actually exist in space are termed “[[Aspect (astrology)|aspects]]”. These aspects are believed to influence the nature of the planets and how they work together. The following is a general description of the major aspects:
-The distinction between astrology and [[astronomy]] was not made until relatively recently (see [[History of astrology]] and [[History of astronomy]]). Today, astrology is viewed as astronomy's predecessor in the same way that [[alchemy]] is viewed as [[chemistry|chemistry's]]. Most scientists dismiss astrology as [[pseudoscience]].+
-A goal of astronomy is to understand the [[physics]] of the [[universe]]. Astrologers use astronomical calculations for the positions of celestial bodies and attempt to correlate astronomical events with earthly events and human affairs. From ancient times to the 17th century, astrologers constantly desired more accurate astronomical tables, and for this reason, they instigated and even funded many important developments in astronomy. The role of astrology as an important motivation for astronomical research diminished as the works of [[Galileo Galilei|Galileo]] and others solved the problems in celestial mechanics that were of interest to astrologers, and as belief in astrological influences or correlations became extinct among astronomers. The needs of modern [[navigation]] and [[physics]] became more important motivators for astronomical research.+*'''Conjunction''' (0°)—Harmonious 
 +*'''Opposition''' (180°)—Disharmonious (not necessarily negative); also energizing 
 +*'''Square''' (90°)—Disharmonious and blocked 
 +*'''Trine''' (120°)—Harmonious & complementary 
 +*'''Sextile''' (60°)—Moderately harmonious
-Many prominent figures in the early history of western astronomy, including [[Tycho Brahe]], [[Johannes Kepler]], and [[Galileo Galilei]], were practicing astrologers. It is a commonly held belief among astrologers that [[Isaac Newton]] had an interest in astrology. However, Newton's writings fail to mention the subject and the handful of books in his possession that contained references to astrology were primarily concerned with other subjects (and mentioned astrology only in passing.) In an interview with John Conduitt, Newton said that as a young student, he had read a book on astrology, and was "soon convinced of the vanity & emptiness of the pretended science of Judicial astrology" (D.T. Whiteside, M.A. Hoskin & A. Prag (eds.), The Mathematical Papers of Isaac Newton (Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, 1967), vol. 1, pp. 15-19).+===Elements===
-There are [[biology|biological]] phenomena that coordinate with celestial movements (e.g. [[circadian rhythm]]s, see [[Chronobiology]]). It has been demonstrated that some [[amphibians]] are able to use [[celestial bodies]] for orientation (source: ''[[Encyclopædia Britannica]]''). Some astrologers may attempt to draw conclusions from this phenomenon, but it is more likely these correlations are not completely understood.+The classical [[elements]] of Air, Earth, Fire, and Water are also applied to astrology.
-== Generally Accepted Phrases and Keywords Associated with Each [[Astrological sign|Astrological Sign]] == +*'''Fire'''—Aries, Leo and Sagittarius—spontaneous and impulsive, energetic 
-*[[Aries]] — "I want," action oriented, pioneering, assertive, "me" first, enthusiasm, leader, competitive, selfish, head/brain+*'''Air'''—Libra, Aquarius, Gemini—quick and animated, intellectual 
 +*'''Water'''—Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces—emotional, sensitive, imaginative 
 +*'''Earth'''—Capricorn, Taurus, Virgo—physical, material, practical, slow to change
-*[[Taurus (constellation)|Taurus]] — "I have," sensual, cautious, acquisitive, musical, traditional, stubborn, throat/neck+===Elemental qualities===
-*[[Gemini]] — "I think," curious, talkative, sociable, duality, mercurial, whimsical, intelligent, superficial, hands/arms+The [[Quality (astrology)|qualities]], or "quadruplicies", are assigned to the Signs and represent different states. The three qualities are:
-*[[Cancer (constellation)|Cancer]] — "I feel," sensitive, tenacious, family and home oriented, helpful, nurturing, moody, stomach/breasts+*'''Cardinal'''—Aries, Libra, Cancer, Capricorn—initiators, pioneers, and leaders 
 +*'''Fixed'''—Leo, Aquarius, Scorpio, Taurus—organizers; like to build on current structures and solidify ideas 
 +*'''Mutable'''—Sagittarius, Gemini, Pisces, Virgo—flexible; seek change and renewal
-*[[Leo]] — "I am," passionate, dramatic, independent, noble, creative, leader, egotistical, heart/back+==See also==
-*[[Virgo]] — "I serve," practical, work and service oriented, critical, common sense, intelligent, health conscious, fussy, intestines/digestion +*[[Components of Astrology]] 
- +*[[History of Astrology]] 
-*[[Libra]] — "We are," partnerships, balance, grace, charm, cooperative, social, ideas, lazy, kidneys/lumbar +*[[The Zodiac]] 
- +*[[Planet (astrology)|The Planets]] 
-*[[Scorpio]] — "I desire," intense, controlling, sexual, compulsive, deep, secretive, mysterious, obsessive, genitals +*[[Tree of Life]]
- +
-*[[Sagittarius]] — "I seek," philosophic, fun-loving, adventurous, blundering, wanderlust, scattered, hips/thighs +
- +
-*[[Capricorn]] — "I build," ambitious, cautious, authoritative, cunning, competent, stable, saturnine, knees/skeleton +
- +
-*[[Aquarius]] — "I know," friendships, cause-oriented, the group, society, progressive, eccentric, aloof, calves/ankles +
- +
-*[[Pisces]] — "I believe," feeling, duality, spirituality, soul growth, suffering, artistic, overly emotional, feet +
- +
-==Astrology and the Classical Elements== +
-[[Astrology]] has used the concept of the [[classical element]]s from antiquity up until the present. Most modern astrologers use the four classical elements extensively, and indeed it is still viewed as a critical and indispensable part of interpreting the [[natal chart|astrological chart]]. The elemental rulerships for the twelve [[astrological sign]]s of the [[zodiac]] are as follows: +
- +
-* '''Fire''' — [[Aries]], [[Leo]], [[Sagittarius]] +
-* '''Earth''' — [[Taurus (constellation)|Taurus]], [[Virgo]], [[Capricorn]] +
-* '''Air''' — [[Gemini]], [[Libra]], [[Aquarius]] +
-* '''Water''' — [[Cancer (constellation)|Cancer]], [[Scorpio]], [[Pisces]] +
- +
-==The Ancient Link Between Astrology and Alchemy== +
-[[Alchemy]] in the [[Western World]] and other locations where it was widely practiced was (and in many cases still is) closely allied and intertwined with traditional [[Greek]] astrology; in numerous ways they were built to complement each other in the search for [[occult|hidden knowledge]]. Traditionally, each of the seven [[planet]]s in the solar system as known to the ancients was associated with, held dominion over, and ''[[astrological sign|ruled]]'' a certain [[metal]].  +
- +
-The list of rulership is as follows: +
-* The [[Sun]] rules [[Gold]] +
-* The [[Moon]], [[Silver]] +
-*[[Mercury (planet)|Mercury]], [[Mercury (element)|Mercury]]  +
-*[[Venus (planet)|Venus]], [[Copper]] +
-*[[Mars (planet)|Mars]], [[Iron]] +
-*[[Jupiter (planet)|Jupiter]], [[Tin]] +
-*[[Saturn (planet)|Saturn]], [[Lead]] +
- +
-Some ''modern'' [[alchemist]]s/[[astrologers]] obviously associate: +
-*[[Uranus (planet)|Uranus]] with [[Uranium]] +
-*[[Neptune (planet)|Neptune]], [[Neptunium]] +
-*[[Pluto (planet)|Pluto]], [[Plutonium]]  +
- +
-As these [[planets]] were not discovered until relatively recently, there is no [[Classical antiquity|classical]] or [[Precedent|traditional basis]] for these associations as there is for the ancient planets and metals.  +
- +
-As [[Isaac Newton]] was (indisputably) a well known [[alchemist]] of his time period, and astrology and alchemy were (and in some cases still are) so closely linked, it is very plausible that Newton had a very good working knowledge of astrology, or at the very least a basic understanding of astrological methodology as it was related to alchemy. Logically then, one would certainly have to know a good bit about astrology in order to use alchemy effectively, and Newton along with other prominent alchemists definitely knew this. For more informations see [[Isaac Newton's occult studies]]. +
- +
-==Astrology as a descriptive language for the mind== +
-The personality descriptions made in astrological charts can be viewed as a method of describing the subjective inner world of mind and personality. This has roots in [[alchemy|alchemical]] and [[Hermeticism|Hermetic tradition]] which were very influential until the 17th century. Many writers, notably [[William Shakespeare]] .[[http://www.chartplanet.com/html/shakespeare.html]] , used astrological symbolism to add subtlety to the description of their characters' motivation. An understanding of astrological principles is needed to fully appreciate such literature. Some modern thinkers, notably [[Carl Jung]], have acknowledged its descriptive powers of the mind without necessarily subscribing to its predictive claims. +
- +
-==See Also== +
- +
-*[[List of astrologers|List of Notable Astrologers]] +
- +
-*[[Age of Aquarius]], [[Astrolabe]], [[Astrology and alchemy]], [[Astrology and astronomy]], [[Autumnal equinox]], [[Birthday]], [[Cazimi]], [[Celestial Sphere]], [[2060 Chiron|Chiron]], [[Classical element]]s, [[Cycles]], [[Ecliptic]], [[Divination]], [[Electional astrology]], [[Ephemeris]], [[Equinox]], [[Esotericism]], [[First Point of Aries]], [[First Point of Libra]], [[Hermes Trismegistus]], [[History of astrology]], [[History of astronomy]], [[Horary astrology]], [[List of cycles]], [[Lunation]], [[Lunar deity]], [[Lunar phase]], [[Magi]], The [[Mars effect]], [[Medical astrology]], [[Metaphysics]], [[Meteorological astrology]], [[Michel Gauquelin]], [[Monen]], [[Mundane astrology]], [[Music of the spheres]], [[New age]], [[Occult]], [[Orbital period]], [[Political astrology]], [[Precession of the equinoxes]], [[Rosicrucian]], [[Sidereal astrology]], [[Solar Age]], [[Solar deity]], [[Solar symbol]], [[Solar system]], [[Solstice]], [[Summer solstice]], [[Synastry]], [[Synchronicity]], [[Syncretism]], [[Three Wise Men]], [[Tropical year]], [[Vernal equinox]], [[Winter solstice]], [[Zodiac]] +
- +
-==References== +
-*Wikipedia (2004). [http://www.wikipedia.org/Astrology Astrology]]. Retrieved Oct. 29, 2004.+
==External links== ==External links==
===Astrology and its history=== ===Astrology and its history===
 +*[http://www.astro.com/ Astrodienst], a large site, including free individual charts
*[http://www.astrology-numerology.com/astrology.html Basics of Astrology] - The basics of astrology. *[http://www.astrology-numerology.com/astrology.html Basics of Astrology] - The basics of astrology.
*[http://www.skyscript.co.uk/ Skyscript — Classical Astrology] - A modern yet faithful look at Classical astrology. *[http://www.skyscript.co.uk/ Skyscript — Classical Astrology] - A modern yet faithful look at Classical astrology.
*[http://www.stariq.com Modern Astrology] - This site focuses on modern, or contemporary astrology as opposed to the Classical Astrology site listed above. *[http://www.stariq.com Modern Astrology] - This site focuses on modern, or contemporary astrology as opposed to the Classical Astrology site listed above.
*[http://www.enchantedspirit.org/Astrology Astrology at Enchanted Spirit] - Articles on the origins and uses of Astrology. *[http://www.enchantedspirit.org/Astrology Astrology at Enchanted Spirit] - Articles on the origins and uses of Astrology.
-*[http://www.esoteric.msu.edu/VolumeIV/astrology.htm Astrology: Between Religion and the Empirical] - A serious academic treatise on astrology by Dr. Gustav-Adolf Schoener and translated by Shane Denson.  
-*[http://www.world-of-dawkins.com/Dawkins/Work/Articles/1995-12romance_in_stars.htm The real romance in the stars] - A critical view of astrology by [[Richard Dawkins]]. 
*[http://penelope.uchicago.edu/Thayer/E/Roman/Texts/secondary/SMIGRA*/Astrologia.html Astrologia] - Article in Smith's Dictionary of Greek and Roman Antiquities *[http://penelope.uchicago.edu/Thayer/E/Roman/Texts/secondary/SMIGRA*/Astrologia.html Astrologia] - Article in Smith's Dictionary of Greek and Roman Antiquities
*[http://www.homewebstreet.com The Chinese Astrology] *[http://www.homewebstreet.com The Chinese Astrology]
- 
-===Validity and usefulness=== 
-*[http://www.astrology-and-science.com/ Astrology and Science] - A series of articles in which believers and skeptics debate the merits of astrology.  
-*[http://home.wxs.nl/~skepsis/astrot.html The Astrotest] - An account of a test of the predictive power of astrology, with references to other experiments. 
-*[http://www.discord.org/~lippard/kammann.html The True Disbelievers] by Richard Kamann and Marcello Truzzi is a report of alleged internal events at CSICOP regarding their own claimed confirmation of M. Gauquelin's 'Mars Effect' 
-*[http://skepdic.com/astrolgy.html The ''Skeptic's Dictionary'' on astrology] 
-*[http://skepdic.com/mars.html The ''Skeptic's Dictionary'' on the Mars effect] 
-*[http://www.lightlink.com/vic/astrol.html An Astrophysicist's Sympathetic and Critical View of Astrology] - by Victor Mansfield. 
-*[http://www.rosicrucian.com/asthtme1.htm Spiritual Astrology] and [http://www.rosicrucian.com/zineen/magen322.htm The Educational Value of Astrology] 
- 
-===Astrology in relation to other thought systems=== 
-*[http://www.spirithome.com/parastro.html A Christian look at astrology]. 
-*[http://www.imprint.co.uk/pdf/Dean.pdf Journal of Consciousness Studies: ''Is Astrology Relevant to Consciousness and Psi?''] 
===The astrologer's tools=== ===The astrologer's tools===
Line 186: Line 153:
*[http://www.astrowin.org/ Astrowin - Free Astrology Software/Programs] - Astro123, AstroWin, MatchMkr, and more. *[http://www.astrowin.org/ Astrowin - Free Astrology Software/Programs] - Astro123, AstroWin, MatchMkr, and more.
*[http://www.robhand.com/ Classical Astrology Archives] *[http://www.robhand.com/ Classical Astrology Archives]
-*[http://www.astrology.org.uk/ Faculty of Astrological Studies] - Founded on 7th June 1948 in London, England at 19.50 BST; its Diploma, the D.F.Astrol.S., is among the most highly valued and recognised international qualifications.+*[http://www.astrology.org.uk/ Faculty of Astrological Studies] - Founded on 7th June 1948 in London, England at 19.50 BST; its Diploma, the D.F.Astrol.S., is among the most highly valued and recognized international qualifications.
*[http://www.kepler.edu Kepler College of Astrological Arts and Sciences] - Based in Seattle, WA, Kepler College is the only accredited college in the western hemisphere authorized to issue B.A. and A.A. degrees in Astrological Studies. *[http://www.kepler.edu Kepler College of Astrological Arts and Sciences] - Based in Seattle, WA, Kepler College is the only accredited college in the western hemisphere authorized to issue B.A. and A.A. degrees in Astrological Studies.
*[http://www.rosicrucianfellowship.org/software/rf_ephem.htm Rosicrucian Fellowship Ephemeris Software] (1900 - 2100). *[http://www.rosicrucianfellowship.org/software/rf_ephem.htm Rosicrucian Fellowship Ephemeris Software] (1900 - 2100).
 +==References==
 +*Wikipedia (2004). ''[http://www.wikipedia.org/Astrology Astrology]''. Retrieved Oct. 29, 2004.
 +*Wikipedia (2004). ''[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/House_%28astrology%29 House (astrology)].'' Retrieved Nov. 4, 2004.
 +*Astrodienst. ''[http://www.astro.com/astrology/in_intro_e.htm A Brief Introduction to Astrology]''. Retrieved Nov. 4, 2004.
 +*Astrology Zone. ''[http://astrologyzone.com/tools/index.html Finding Your Place in the Universe].'' Retrieved Nov. 4, 2004.
 +*Crowley, Aleister with Evangeline Adams.(2002).''The General Principles of Astrology.'' edited by Hymenaeus Beta. York Beach, ME. Red Wheel/Weiser.
 +*Skyscript UK: Planetary Joys, The Houses: Temples of the Sky. - Deborah Houlding
 +
 +[[Category:Astrology]]
[[Category:Systems]] [[Category:Systems]]
 +[[Category:Divination]]

Current revision

Part of the Magick in Theory & Practice series.

An example of a natal chart, showing the relationship of the planets and signs of the Zodiac at the time of birth
An example of a natal chart, showing the relationship of the planets and signs of the Zodiac at the time of birth
Astrology (from Greek: αστρολογία = άστρον, astron, "star" + λόγος, logos, "word") is any of several traditions or systems in which knowledge of the apparent positions of celestial bodies is held to be useful in understanding, interpreting and organizing knowledge about reality and human existence on earth. All are based on the relative positions and movements of various real and construed celestial bodies, chiefly the Sun, Moon, planets, and lunar nodes as seen at the time and place of the birth or other event being studied. A practitioner of astrology is termed an astrologer, though they are sometimes referred to as an astrologist.

Many of those who practice astrology believe that the positions of certain celestial bodies either influence, or correlate with but do not influence, people's personality traits, important events in their lives, and even physical characteristics.

For many astrologers the purported relationship between the celestial bodies and events on earth need not be causal, nor even scientific. Although there are astrologers who try to put astrology on sound scientific principles, for many more it is a technology and an art that merges calculations with intuitive perceptions. Some believe that the core principles of astrology are based upon the ancient Hermetic maxim: As Above, So Below.

Table of contents
1 Description
2 Overview
3 Elements of astrology

3.1 The Planets

3.1.1 Retrograde Motion

3.2 The Zodiac
3.3 Houses
3.4 Aspects
3.5 Elements
3.6 Elemental qualities

4 See also
5 External links

5.1 Astrology and its history
5.2 The astrologer's tools

6 References
[edit]

Description

In past centuries astrology often relied on close observation of astronomical objects and the charting of their movements, which might be considered a protoscience in this regard. In modern times astrologers have tended to rely on data drawn up by astronomers and set out in a set of tables called an ephemeris which shows the changing positions of the heavenly bodies through time.

Central to all astrology is the natal chart (other names for this diagram in English include horoscope, natus, nativity, astrological chart, map, birth chart, cosmogram, or simply chart). This is a diagrammatic representation in 2 dimensions of the celestial bodies' apparent positions in the heavens from the vantage of a location on Earth at a given time and place. Interpretation of a natal chart is governed by:

Common traditions of astrology include Western astrology, Chinese astrology, Jyotish (Vedic astrology) and Kabbalistic astrology. All of these can be subdivided by type, such as natal astrology (the study of a person's birth, or natal chart), horary astrology (a chart drawn up to answer a specific question), and electional astrology (a chart drawn up ahead of time to determine the best moment to begin an enterprise or undertaking). Mundane astrologers believe correlations exist between geological phenomena (such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, etc.) and astronomical phenomena (the movement of celestial bodies in relation to Earth). Political astrology has existed for thousands of years as well, while some astrologers use ancient methods that are supposed to be able to predict the weather and weather-related phenomena (storms, floods, etc.), which is collectively known as meteorological astrology.

A few Western but all Jyotish (Hindu) astrologers use the sidereal zodiac that uses the true astronomical positions of the stars. The majority of Western astrologers base their work on the tropical zodiac that uses a view of the heavens as seen 2000 years ago.

[edit]

Overview

Image:Astrologytemplate.jpg
The Zodiac

Aries (♈)
Taurus (♉)
Gemini (♊)
Cancer (♋)
Leo (♌)
Virgo (♍)
Libra (♎)
Scorpio (♏)
Sagittarius (♐)
Capricorn (♑)
Aquarius (♒)
Pisces (♓)

The Planets

Sun (☉)
Mercury (☿)
Venus (♀)
Luna (☽)
Mars (♂)
Jupiter (♃)
Saturn (♄)
Uranus (♅)
Neptune (♆)
Pluto (♇)

Other components

Houses
Aspects
Qualities
Motion
More...

Astrology provides a direct link to some of the longest held human beliefs. Its continued appeal may rest on its ability to link an individual's life to the wider cosmos and so give a feeling of uniqueness, meaning and of connection to the totality of things. Astrology also makes use of basic, archetypal qualities found universally throughout humanity, and some people find it a useful intuitive tool with which to describe themselves, others, and the relationships between them.

Most serious astrologers scorn trivial horoscope predictions supplied by newspapers as nothing but a way to entertain readers. Serious astrologers see all popular astrology in which people are labeled on the basis of their sun sign alone as frivolous and not worthy of defense. The sun sign is regarded as but one of many factors, which must be taken into account when interpreting one's horoscope.

An individual astrological reading by a skilled astrologer—or by the individual himself or herself if he or she is well-versed enough in astrology—is thought to provide a way for the individual to divine his or her own feelings about the present, and to better understand his or her own personality. This can give the individual the opportunity to understand those feelings and patterns of behavior, which may be barriers to possible futures, and so change their actions in the present to bring about a desired future. In this respect it is more closely linked to tarot, I Ching and modern psychotherapy than to astronomy.

An individual is always seen as the ultimate master of their destiny, and given sufficient will and purpose, as being able to overcome the most adverse astrological indications. However, the degree of struggle necessary will depend on the astrological circumstances in which they enact their project.

Most astrologers make no claim to be practicing a science and see their skill as an art, which gives a structure to a dialogue with their client. An astrologer's success would need to be measured in terms of the happiness and well being of their subjects rather than the mechanical prediction of events. Astrology has, however, taken on new astronomical concepts as they have been discovered and added its own symbolism to them. Thus the outer planets discovered since 1781, because of their slow movement across the zodiac, sit in the same position in the charts of whole generations. They have been assigned a role in interpreting the processes of large groups; of nations, institutions, ideas, beliefs and the generations themselves.

The 12-sign astrological zodiac has been in place for well over 2000 years and is still used by most Western astrologers, while Ophiuchus has only been located along the astronomical ecliptic for the past 75 years or so. In astrology, the size of the actual astronomical constellations is a non-issue because most Western astrologers use the tropical zodiac, where the ecliptic is divided into 12 equal portions exactly 30 degrees each to get the 12 astrological signs. (12 signs x 30 degrees each sign = the 360 degrees of the ecliptic) The beginning of the astrological year is the beginning of Spring in the Northern Hemisphere (the vernal equinox) and not when the Sun crosses an arbitrary dividing line drawn up in modern times to denote where the sign of Aries begins.

[edit]

Elements of astrology

Unlike the daily horoscope in the newspaper, astrology is very complex with many components. These include (but are not limited to): the planets, the 12 signs of the Zodiac, aspects, houses, elements (air, earth, fire, & water), qualities (cardinal, fixed, & mutable), the ascendant, retrograde motion, other heavenly bodies (asteroids, fixed stars, & large moons), transits and returns, orbs, equinoxes & solstices. Below are brief descriptions of the major components.

For a more detailed discussion of the technical aspects of astrology, see Components of Astrology.

[edit]

The Planets

right

The planets include the seven "classical" planets—Sol, Mercury, Venus, Luna, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn—plus the modern additions of Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto. The following is a general description of their characteristics:

[edit]

Retrograde Motion

At times, because of an elliptical orbit, some planets appear to move backwards in the sky. This backwards movement is referred to as "retrograde" motion. There is no consensus regarding the effects of a planet going retrograde, although some astrologers believe it does have a general affect on a planet's influence.

[edit]

The Zodiac

right

The Zodiac refers to the twelve constellations that fall on the plane of the ecliptic (the path the sun takes across the sky over the course of the year). The following is a general description of their characteristics:

[edit]

Houses

Most astrological systems divide the astrological chart (or natal chart) into twelve houses, which depend more on the time and place of birth (or initiation) than on the date. To calculate the houses of a chart it is necessary to know the exact time of birth. If the time of birth is unknown some astrologers will assume a birth at noon or sunrise, but an meaningful interpretation of such a chart cannot be expected.

There are many ways to divide the ecliptic into twelve houses. The main House systems are: Placidus (the most common), Equal, Whole, Regiomontanus, Meridian, Campanus, Porphyry, Koch, Topocentric.

The houses are departments of life, described in terms of man's physical surroundings as well as personal life experiences, and in modern astrology have some correspondence with their natural sign, i.e. the first house has a natural affinity with the first sign, Aries, and so on. (However the latter is not true in ancient astrology* where the rulership of select Houses is held by the Planetary Joys also known as the Joys of the Houses**, not the Zodiac.)

The following is a general description of their characteristics:

(*)Footnote: The house system developed with the Greeks and added a separate context layer attributed to the area of ones life on top of an already developed zodiacal and planetary system rooted in Egypt and Babylon.

(**)Footnote: Joys of the Houses: 1st=Mercury, 3rd=Moon, 5th=Venus, 6th=Mars, 9th=Sun, 11th=Jupiter, 12th=Saturn

[edit]

Aspects

The angular relationships between the planets as they actually exist in space are termed “aspects”. These aspects are believed to influence the nature of the planets and how they work together. The following is a general description of the major aspects:

[edit]

Elements

The classical elements of Air, Earth, Fire, and Water are also applied to astrology.

[edit]

Elemental qualities

The qualities, or "quadruplicies", are assigned to the Signs and represent different states. The three qualities are:

[edit]

See also

[edit]

External links

[edit]

Astrology and its history

[edit]

The astrologer's tools

[edit]

References



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