12 Reasons Why I Love Astrology- Part 3
Welcome back to the series on 12 Reasons Why I Love Astrology.
In Part 1, I wrote about the origins of astrology, and how it is an important source of wisdom and power today. Part 2 was about the mystical, humanistic, and remedial nature of astrology.
This post is Part 3 of the Series on Why I Love Astrology.
REASONS
7.
It's related to astronomy
The subject of astronomy has always been an important part of astrology. In ancient texts, astrology is divided into three sections including astronomy, horoscopy and samhita (samhita dealing with changes in weather and fortunes, movements of planets, relations between planets etc.).
In astrological practice, it is common to use the knowledge of astronomy to make predictions. The descriptions of the planets and other celestial bodies are also formulated with the help of astronomy. For example, Saturn's dark, gloomy and slow nature is attributed to its astronomical description including its movement, motion and placement in the solar system.
Another example can be of the planet Uranus. Uranus is the seen as the "rebel " and "eccentric" energy in a horoscope. In astronomical terms, Uranus is called the "sideways planet", the one with a "strange axis" because of it's rotation on its side. (NASA Science/ELSI).
The history of their relationship i.e. of astrology and astronomy, is also interesting. In another post on Astrology and Astronomy, the historical connections between the two were explored, mainly how the two were once studied under one discipline called astronomia. Astronomia involved both the calculation of planetary orbits and the casting of horoscopes, the calculation of houses and aspects, the character of the various planets etc.
As of today. astrology continues to benefit from the many developments in the world of astronomy. In addition, several astronomical explorations study the impact of planets on human life. (This topic calls for one special post on astronomy- the science and astrology- the pseudo-science).
8.
It's related to psychology
In astrology, the human personality is a very important topic of study. The horoscope for instance, is used to make an assessment of the "personality type", temperament and the inner landscape of an individual.
The best way to understand this is with the example of Saturn in the horoscope. The planet Saturn, is mostly associated with states of lethargy, dark emotions and gloominess. (See Saturn Why So Serious?) Through the placement of Saturn, one can make an assessment of how an individual will "engage" and "deal" with different conditions of life, including strife, opposition, boundaries and restrictions.
Another example can be of the four elements i.e. air, water, earth, fire. The prominence of any of the four elements in the horoscope will influence the behavior of an individual. For instance, the fire signs will create a fiery personality. The water signs, a contemplative and sensitive one.
This turn of astrology, towards exploring, explaining and understanding the psyche and personality, has been regarded as one of its greatest achievements.
9.
It's related to mythology
Mythology plays a very crucial role in shaping the belief system of individuals and societies.
In the field of astrology, the descriptions of planets, signs, or constellations/nakshatras are mostly based on mythological texts.
Here, the best example can be of Rahu and Ketu (North Node and South Node). The origin of Rahu and Ketu is often traced to the episode of the Samudra manthana (churning of the cosmic ocean of milk), where the Gods and demons worked collectively to attain the nectar of immortality. The manthan is referred to as the best known episodes in Hindu mythology (Wikipedia).
Another interesting example can be of the scheme of planetary friendships and enmity. Tales from mythology can explain why Saturn and Sun are enemies, or why Saturn and Venus are friends.
When one views astrology through the lens of mythology, a whole new world of symbols and meanings comes alive. This connection also makes astrology all the more appealing.
Thank-you for reading.
Stay tuned for Part 4.