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 4000 years ago in Mesophtamia and eventually spread throughout the ancient world. In most cultures astrology was regarded as a science, and many rulers even used astrology when making important political decisions. Today, although there is no scientific proof for its accuracy, many people still believe in astrology.

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 planets. Astrologers claim that they can interpret the finished horoscope to reveal your character.

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.

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.

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

Ancient astrologers believed that the Universe was a gigantic sphere, with the Earth at 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.

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.

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 indicate crystal ball gazing, dream interpretation, palmistry, runes, numerology and the I Ching an ancient Chinese oracle.

Article Posted By : sreevani  On May 02, 2013lView All Articles

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Astrology