What is Astrology?
The word astrology is derived from the Greek αστρολογία, from άστηρ (aster, "star") and λόγος (logos, "speech, statement, reason"). The -λογία suffix is written in English as -logy, "study" or "discipline".
Most astrological traditions are based on the relative positions and movements of various celestial bodies and on the construction of celestial patterns as seen at the time and place of the event being studied. These are chiefly the Sun, Moon, the planets, the stars and the lunar nodes. The calculations performed in casting a horoscope involve arithmetic and geometry which serve to locate the position of heavenly bodies on desired dates and times based on astronomical tables. The frame of reference for such apparent positions is defined by the tropical or sidereal zodiacal signs on one hand, and by the local horizon (ascendant) and midheaven on the other. This latter (local) frame is typically further divided into the twelve astrological houses.
What is a Horoscope?
Horoscopic astrology can essentially be summed up as the practice of casting astrological charts that reflect the apparent positions of a variety of celestial bodies and points from the perspective of the individual at any given moment in time. The idea is that the placement of the planets at any given moment in time reflects the nature of that moment and especially anything which is born at that point in time, and this can be analysed using the chart and a variety of rules for interpreting the 'language' or symbols therein. The most prevalent application of horoscopic astrology is to use it to analyse the birth charts of individuals in order to read character, psychological traits, and to some extent destiny.
There are different types of horoscopes for different needs. For example the horoscope for Natal Astrology is what I use for the study of human nature. There are horoscopes for Medical Astrology, Horary Astrology, progress and transits horoscopes, which are about the individual’s future and there are many others.
So, how can astrology help me?
This is a very good question. Astrology, via the birth chart, provides us with a symbolic blueprint of the planetary patterns at a particular place and time. In other words, at the time of our birth it shows us the energy patterns to which our very being vibrates. The planetary patterns are like a mirror, reflecting back for us our own human characteristics, potentials, strengths, weaknesses, abilities, talents, and struggles. There is no such thing as a bad birth chart; nor is there a good one. There is no birth chart that preordains a specific fate. Every birth chart contains the roots of many potential personalities - each planetary pattern can run the infinite continuum between a positive and negative expression of its symbology as well as be expressed on a variety of different levels. Each and every one of us has the free will to choose how we will make use of the planetary energies and it is tremendously helpful to have an understanding of the dynamics of the planetary patterns in our own birth charts so we can consciously choose our paths.
So what can astrology do for us? I'm going to borrow from an insightful astrologer, Steven Forrest, for he simply states. First, our birth chart clearly indicates the happiest path for us to walk. Second, it indicates the tools we have available for walking that path and how best to use them. Third, it indicates what our lives will look like if we step off that path. In addition, the birth chart provides the means for discovering our unique life purpose. And, it is usually that which we ultimately find the most joy in doing what presents the greatest challenges to overcome.'
Astrology is just one of many means to self-discovery. What I like best is the speed with which that discovery can be made. Astrology can validate who we already, however unconsciously, know ourselves to be. It may take years to make such discoveries using other methods. Your birth chart will indicate your unique self as well as the skills and gifts you have to offer the rest of humanity. It will point out areas of imbalance and indicate the means to regaining balance. It can assist you in making satisfying choices in regard to your relationships, work, education, and life goals. Astrology can help you to gain clarity and perspective when in conflict, confusion, or transition. It points out your natural cycles - such as, the most opportune time for planting seeds, nurturing the seeds to growth, harvesting the 'crop', or ploughing the crop under to prepare for a new cycle. It is true that there is a season for everything.
So, in addition to assisting you in embracing the whole of yourself, astrology can also help you to prepare for emerging opportunities and to develop appropriate timing
