July, 2006

Astrology: Symbolic or Real?

Perhaps it really doesn't matter how we view Astrology if the final impact is meaningful. Traditionally Astrology elements have been viewed as real influences in the lives of individuals as well as nations. There have been compelling viewpoints expressed on the validity of Astrology being based on "rays, resonations, vibrations, etc". Many contemporary dismiss such conjectures, but accept that perhaps there is a real, undefined scientific connection between mankind and planetary positions etc, however it does not really matter as long as the outcome is positive. Therefore view the elements of Astrology as symbolic.

What is a birth chart and why is it important?

Most astrology reports depend on, or are based upon a persons birth chart. A birth chart is quite unique. The position of the planets and stars constantly change. It is estimated that the sky pattern will return to the same uniform positions only once every approximate) 26,000 years. Thus each birth report is unique, placing an individual astrological chart within the vast but finite limits of unique time, and location. Location not just within the space of our biosphere, but our place in the ever changing progress of the sun and solar system. The sun signs really are much more than ancient Greek mythology, they are real sets of stars observable throughout our lives.

Rather than presenting a typical biographical introduction, I would like to share how I came to have an interest in Astrology.

Some years ago, like many people today, I went through the divorce process. I guess for some it can be a fairly easy event. But for me it was a rather comprehensive experience, “easy” would not be an appropriate word to describe that process. I intentionally made the choice, and I can honestly say that, although a good deal of negativity and hurt was involved, it was for the better. Now I share this bit of information, not to debate or discuss that decision, but to “set the stage” for the information that is to follow.

Here is a list of descriptive keywords for the planets. Once you know the planetary keywords, description of the houses and signs, and the meaning of the aspects, you can match those different elements and begin a preliminary interpretation your own chart. Note that matching keywords and descriptions can create a traditional interpretation, however acquiring significant personal meaning from your chart requires a higher level of skill and inquiry.

Mercury: messenger of the gods, communication, bearer of news, expressive skills, swift
Negative: restlessness, dishonest

Venus: harmony and the force that binds and attracts. Appreciation of art, music and all

Can Astrology Predict Future Events?

Traditionally Astrology was often used as a predictive tool. Even in the 20th century a number of astrologers had become famous by making successful predictions, including colorful figures such as Evangeline Adams, and Sidney Bennett. Certain cosmic events have been proven to correlate with earth events than those events that may otherwise be consider mere chance. Astrologers have looked at, refined, and continue to study the methodologies used to evaluate future trends. For example when an alignment of the earth, moon and sun occurs there is a greater chance for an earthquake to occur. Most modern astrologers realize the inadequacy of the word “prediction” and instead prefer forecast. Meaning, that for a certain time frame it probably would not be appropriate to predict for an individual that he will fall into financial ruin, but it may be appropriate to forecast that during that time period, the individual should refrain from making life changing financial decisions or at least to respond conservatively.

Aspects: the Angles of Astrology

When interpreting an individual's birth, progressed or compatibility charts, astrologers use three primary elements. The elements include the sun signs, houses and aspects. When comparing two charts for compatibility, (friends, lovers, business associates) the aspects created from both charts are considered synastry). Most people today have some concept of signs and houses but few average individuals have a good astrological understanding of the importance of planetary aspects in their charts and report.

Aspects refer to the mathematical angles by degrees between two planets. Keep in mind that the astrology chart being a circle is measured in 360 degrees. Let’s take a brief look at, and define the major aspects.

Each year as the Fall comes to a close and the chill of Winter approaches, I think about a forecast for the upcoming year. This upcoming year in the U.S. should be especially interesting. The presidential election is coming up, and for the first time ever we have a woman as a front runner, and a very competitive African-American candidate. Also as a nation we are under a great deal of stress as the horror of Iraq continues. Although our politicians do not seem too concerned, the issue of global warming is demanding a tremendous response. Many other serious issues can be listed that altogether create a very discouraging picture.