There are many aspects of astrology that could serve as an appropriate starting point when introducing the subject: its history (which is quite extensive for, like Rome, the concept of astrology wasn’t built in a day!) its differing uses, or even the calculations required to draw up a horoscope, without which the process of interpretation cannot begin.
However a suitable beginning might be to wipe out any misconceptions that astrology consists simply of the 12 well-known zodiac signs.
More Than Just a Sun Sign
To explain astrology, no matter how briefly, might also serve to argue the credibility of the subject. There is a lot more to this than the generic sun sign horoscopes that can be read in newspapers and magazines, and those who are under the impression that the world’s entire population is expected to fall into 12 distinct character types can be excused for thinking this may be a little far-fetched.
The Basis of the Horoscope
The basis of the horoscope is far more complex than just the Sun Sign. The Sun Signs only scratch the surface of astrology. For a true astrological analysis, the position of the Sun, Moon and planets on the date and time of birth and their relationships with each other are taken into consideration. With there being so many facets to the horoscope, astrology can offer new insights into a person’s inner-self and present circumstances. Not only is astrology quite fascinating from a psychological perspective but it can be fun too.
Observation of the Stars
It is the thousands of years of observations of our ancestors that enable us, now, to look at a horoscope with confidence, knowing that certain characteristics and trends can be related to corresponding planetary positions and aspects.
Astrology is the study of the planets and their movements and how these relate to trends on Earth. It is no easy matter to try to explain how this works – some things, it has to be admitted, are beyond human comprehension – but it is human nature, also, to be curious and to want to know ‘why?’
How Astrology Works
Astrologers differ in their opinions as to just how astrology works. The wise ones admit they simply have no idea, others may offer complicated theories involving gravitation or electro-magnetic forces. Synchronicity, a theory described by C.G Jung as ‘whatever is born or done in a certain moment of time shares the qualities of that moment of time’ can be another possible explanation (i.e. that man is born when the planets are in certain positions and from that moment will always share the characteristics and trends corresponding to these planetary aspects – the birth chart).
Uses of Astrology
Astrology is a science because of the mathematical calculations involved; it is also a skill and an art due to the need to weigh-up a mass of possibilities to decide on their inference. Almost every culture has some form of astrology and there is a fascinating link between astrology and psychology. Astrology can be used for understanding personality and relationships, for counselling and predicting future trends. Farmers might use astrology to decide the best times for planting and harvesting. Astrology can be linked to politics, countries, health and medicine. In fact, its uses are as immense as the subject itself.
Further Reading
West, John Anthony & Toonder, Jan Gerhard 'The Case for Astrology' Penguin Books Ltd (1970)
