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WHAT IS ASTROLOGY?
Astrology is the study of how the positions of the stars and the movements of the planets have an influence on events and on the lives and behaviour of people.
Western astrology, as it is practised today, works with the birth chart as its foundation. A birth chart is a form of map, showing the locations of celestial bodies (Sun, Moon, planets, asteroids and other points of interest) at a specific time (time of birth) in a specific location (place of birth). Each celestial body will have been located in one of the 12 zodiac signs and stands in relation to the other celestial bodies. In astrology, depending on the sign and its relationship to the other bodies, each planetary placement shows potentials and challenges for the individual.
PRINCIPLES OF ASTROLOGY
A central principle of astrology is the integration of the individual, the environment and the Earth itself within the cosmos, which is seen as a single organism, all parts of which are correlated with each other. The movements of celestial bodies create cycles of change. These are therefore reflective (not causative) of similar cycles of change observed on Earth and within the individual. The Hermetics expressed this relationship with “as above, so below; as below, so above” (Kybalion). This maxim postulates symmetry between the individual as a microcosm and the celestial environment as a macrocosm.
PRINCIPLES OF ASTROLOGY
THE ZODIAC
The zodiac is the band of star constellations through which the Sun, Moon and planets move. Ancient astrologers noted these constellations and attached meanings and characteristics to them through myths. Over time, a system of 12 signs was developed based on the 12 constellations through which the Sun passes throughout the year. Modern Western astrology uses the Tropical Zodiac, which begins with the sign of Aries at the Northern Hemisphere’s vernal equinox (21st March). The Western Zodiac is based on the Earth’s relationship to fixed, designated positions in the sky and the Earth’s seasons. The Sidereal Zodiac is based on the Earth’s position in relation to the constellations by following their movements in the sky. Due to a phenomenon called precession of the equinoxes, where the Earth’s axis slowly rotates in a 25,700-year cycle, there is a shift in the correspondence between the Earth’s seasons (and calendar) and the constellation of the zodiac.
MODERN WESTERN ASTROLOGY
MODERN WESTERN ASTROLOGY
Modern Western astrology is the system of astrology used most frequently in Western countries. There are many other systems, such as Indian (Vedic), Chinese or traditional (medieval) astrology. Historically, Western astrology has been based on Ptolemy´s Tetrabiblos (2nd century AD), which is derived from Hellenistic and Babylonian traditions. It is largely horoscopic, which means its forecasting method is based on the construction of a horoscope for an exact moment (the birth chart).
THE BIRTH CHART
The birth chart is also known as a natal chart, astrological chart, radix or horoscope. It is a circular map showing the positions of the celestial bodies at a specific time in a specific place. In order to be calculated accurately, an exact birth time and location are necessary. A birth chart can be calculated for an individual, subject or anything created (organisation, country, pet, etc.). The birth chart is divided into 12 houses that represent different areas in a person’s life (e.g. family, friends, work, creative expression). In astrology, celestial bodies are commonly referred to as ‘planets’ (even the Sun, Moon and asteroids). In a chart, these are positioned in one of the 12 zodiac signs and 12 houses.
THE IMPORTANCE OF BIRTH TIME
In order to calculate a chart accurately, the exact time of birth is important. This can commonly be found on any birth certificate. In astrology, the time of birth of an individual is defined as the time of the first breath. With an exact birth time, the exact degrees of the angles (rising sign or Ascendant, Midheaven, Descendant and Imum Coeli) and the positions of the houses (family, work, friends, etc.) can be mapped out. An exact birth time is essential to determine in which area of a person’s life (work, family, friends), for example, the planet Mars (which stands for energetic action, passion and assertion) will manifest.