The origin of the progressive science of astrology is obscured with antiquity. Regarded as a sacred science, it was studied together with what is considered its twin science – astronomy. Since the early days, the rich records of astrology history were the oldest astrological documents gathered from different ancient civilizations with different astrological systems.
The earliest references for astrology history are cloaked with probabilities. They claim that the science was born during primitive times when man was relating life’s occurrences to a more powerful force than he was. Brought by the necessity to find an answer man started linking everything with what he perceived as responsible for his destiny: the heavenly bodies. Man started recording and giving interpretations to his experiences. He started basing his insights on the celestial bodies having invisible influences upon life on earth, particularly that of the human being.
The start of astrological documentation
The period between 668 – 626 B.C. produces the most ancient astrological documents, which record observations of the solar and lunar movements. Together with some calculations, these documents are mounting with astrological predictions. As early as 410 B.C.E., Babylon has been recording horoscope charts or birth charts of its citizens. These documents used by the early man to guide him in his daily life are now useful in digging the history of astrology. The ancient records reveal that eastern civilizations refer to the stars as bearer of news. Even the bible contains some fascinating stories about bright stars guiding the prophets in fulfilling their mission. The biblical story about the Magi who went to visit the infant Jesus has caused some to believe that they were actually Persian astrologers who used the North Star to locate the birthplace of the prophesied Savior.
The emergence of astrology from east to west
Around 600 B.C., the introduction of western astrology into ancient Greece started from ancient Mesopotamia. The period was characterized by the flourishing Greek civilization and the rising popularity of the first Greek philosophers. By the time Alexander the Great has conquered and Hellenized the world between 336 – 323 B.C. Egypt became the established civilization of Hellenistic Greek philosophy. It was during these times that the scholars began studying and developing the science of astrology. This period witnessed the birth of the horoscope and the zodiacs. Much later, Hellenistic scholars played twin roles. They served as mathematical astronomers who scanned the celestial for intergalactic movements and doubled as metaphysical astrologers who interpreted and linked these movements to human events. Many relics that continue to rise from their ancient grave only confirm that astrology and astronomy were part of the eastern and western culture.
The application of astrology
In using what is available to retrace astrology history, it can be proven that even in early times astrology is considered a science with useful application. During that conservative time, astrology remains to be the domain of the priesthood. It is used in their place of worship to speak to their gods and ask for healing. Rulers and conquerors used it to advance their interest and in formulating strategies for defense and to stay in power. Up to the last centuries, astrologers served their western rulers in determining propitious dates to hold important events during their reign.
The long road down astrology history lane passed through a chronology of events that lead us to where the science is now placed in the lives of the people. At present, it is no longer exclusive to the whims of the sovereign and the powerful. It is within the reach of even the lowliest of citizens. It is applied for both complicated and trivial purposes that can include weddings, opening a business, weather prediction and many others. Nevertheless, the most popular is probably obtaining self-analysis. With astrology, one can have a better understanding of the personality. This makes us all a little nostalgic once more and as we review the path of how astrology affected our lives. It makes us realize that we are all part of its history.