Astrology

The study of the influences of the stars is known as astrology. For Centuries, people have believed that the position of the stars and planets has an influence on human life. The study of this influence is known as astrology. It began about 4,000 years ago in Mesopotamia (Modern Iraq) and eventually spread throut the ancient world. In most cultures astrology was regarded as a science and many rulers even used this system when making important political decision. Today, although there is no scientific proof for its accuracy, many people still believe in astrology.


Astrology and Astronomy:

The scientific study of stars and planets is known as astronomy. For thousands of years, astronomy and astrology were closely linked. From the 17th century onwards, however, leaps in scientific knowledge resulted in astronomy becoming increasingly important, while belief in astrology began to wane.


Celestial Spheres:

Ancient astrologers believed that the universe was a gigantic sphere with the earth the centre and the stars circling around it. They divided this sphere into 12 sections, each of which was named after a constellation of fixed stars – the signs of the zodiac.


Casting a Horoscope:

To draw up your horoscope or birth chart astrologers need to know the exact date, time and place of your birth. They then use careful calculations to plot the position of the sun, moon and planers. Astrologers claim that they can interpret the finished horoscope to reveal your character.


Signs of the Zodiac:

Each sign of the zodiac takes its name from ancient mythology. Early astrologers chose names to suit the shapes formed by the constellations – the stars that make up Leo, for example, were thought to resemble a lion.


Chinese Horoscopes:

Unlike western astrology which is based on the movement of the sun and planets, Chinese horoscopes are based on the cycle of the moon Each Chinese year is named after a different animal – the Rat, Ox , Tiger, Rabbit Dragon, Snake, Horse, Ram Monkey, Rooster, Dog and Pig.


Astrological Wheel:

Chinese astrology features 12 animals and each represents a different personality type. For example people born in the year of the snake are said to be sociable, confident and energetic,


Associations:

Each astrological animal is associated with a certain food, color and symbol. The Rat’s symbol is the set of balances, its color is black and it is linked with salty – tasting foods.


Fortune Telling:

People’s desire to see into the future has given rise to many different forms of prediction which vary from culture to culture. They include crystal ball gazing; dream interpretation, palmistry divination sticks, tarot reading, runes, numerology and the I Ching, an ancient Chinese oracle.


The Role of Chance:

Many Fortune – telling systems use dice, coins or cards to introduce an element of randomness.


Tarot Cards:

Tarot cards are found worldwide. They can be dealt in many different ways and are thought to answer specific questions or be a guide to the future.