Origin of Astrology
Astrology is the study of the manoeuvre and relative positions of celestial bodies clarified as having an impact on human affairs and the natural world. It is a system that attempts to divine meaning from the celestial movements and to relate them to human affairs. The origins of astrology can be traced back to the early civilizations of Babylonia, China, and Egypt.
The origins of astrology can be traced back to the ancient civilizations of Babylonia, China, Egypt, Greece, India, and Rome. Astrology was traditionally considered a scholarly tradition and was common in academic circles, often in close relation with astronomy, alchemy, meteorology, and medicine.
In ancient China, astrology was used to predict the future and to make decisions about important matters such as when to plant crops and when to go to war.
In ancient Egypt, astrology was closely linked to the gods and goddesses. The Egyptians believed that the celestial bodies were controlled by the gods and that they could be used to predict the future and to gain insight into the will of the gods.
Astrology spread to ancient Greece and Rome where it was practised by philosophers, scientists, and astrologers. The Greek philosopher Pythagoras is credited with bringing astrology to Greece and the Greek philosopher Plato wrote about the influence of the celestial bodies on human affairs. In Rome, astrology was practised by the Roman philosopher Cicero and the Roman statesman Julius Caesar is said to have consulted astrologers before making important decisions.
Astrology continued to be practised in the Middle Ages and during the Renaissance, although it was often criticized by the Church. In the 17th and 18th centuries, astrology experienced a revival and many people turned to astrology for guidance and to understand the mysteries of the universe.
History of Astrology
Astrology has been dated to at least the 2nd millennium BCE, with basics in calendrical systems used to foresee seasonal shifts and to clarify celestial cycles as indications of godly communications. A form of astrology was practised in the first succession of Mesopotamia (1950-1651 BCE). Chinese astrology was involved in the Zhou dynasty (1046-256 BCE). Alexander the Great’s conquest of Asia permitted astrology to prevail over Ancient Greece and Rome. In Rome, astrology was associated with Chaldean wisdom, while the emperors, especially Augustus, took on the role of protector of divination. The Roman astrologer Vettius Valens created the first known astrological text with continuous prose around 150 CE.
In the 9th century, the Muslim world came into contact with Hellenistic astrology and Horoscopic astrology. They translated works of Greek and Indian astrologers, developed their own theories, and in the East, created horoscopic astrology. In the West, astrology was accepted by the Catholic Church and was practised by kings and popes.
During the Renaissance, astrology experienced a revival and was a central part of medical education at universities. The study of astrology was done by magicians, astrologers, and astral doctors. Astrologers were often referred to as “wise men” and were consulted by royalty. Astrology was also a central part of the curriculum at the University of Salamanca. The School of Salamanca placed emphasis on the study of astrology and the conjunction of celestial bodies with the affairs of the state.
