Astrologia

Astrologia

Astrologia is an ancient practice that involves the study of celestial bodies — including stars, planets, and the Moon — to gain insight into human affairs and terrestrial events. Originating in Babylonia in the 2nd millennium BCE, astrology has played a significant role in the cultural, religious, and scientific developments of various societies throughout history.

History

The roots of astrology can be traced back to ancient Mesopotamia, where the earliest forms of astrological documentation appeared. It was further developed by the Ancient Greeks, who named many of the zodiac signs and houses still in use today. Astrology was considered a scholarly tradition and was practiced by academics and scholars known as astrologers. It was closely related to the development of astronomy, mathematics, and alchemy during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance period.

Branches of Astrology

Astrology is divided into several branches, each focusing on different aspects of the celestial influence on terrestrial matters.

• Natal Astrology: The most widely known form, which interprets an individual's personality and predicts future events based on the positions of celestial bodies at the time of the person's birth.
• Mundane Astrology: Focuses on world events and the fate of nations, often used to predict political and natural occurrences.
• Electional Astrology: Determines the most auspicious times to undertake significant actions, such as marriages or starting a business.
• Horary Astrology: Answers specific questions by studying the chart of the moment the question is posed to the astrologer.

Astrological Signs and the Zodiac

The zodiac is a belt of the heavens within about 8° on either side of the ecliptic, including all apparent positions of the sun, moon, and most familiar planets. It is divided into twelve signs, each associated with a constellation, a set of dates, and various attributes.

• Aries (March 21 - April 19)
• Taurus (April 20 - May 20)
• Gemini (May 21 - June 20)
• Cancer (June 21 - July 22)
• Leo (July 23 - August 22)
• Virgo (August 23 - September 22)
• Libra (September 23 - October 22)
• Scorpio (October 23 - November 21)
• Sagittarius (November 22 - December 21)
• Capricorn (December 22 - January 19)
• Aquarius (January 20 - February 18)
• Pisces (February 19 - March 20)

Scientific Reception

Throughout the centuries, astrology has been subject to criticism and skepticism. In the modern era, it is largely considered a pseudoscience by the scientific community because it lacks empirical evidence and fails to adhere to the scientific method. Despite this, astrology remains popular, with many people consulting astrological charts and readings for entertainment and personal insight.

Cultural Impact

Astrology has had a profound impact on culture, art, and literature. It has influenced the development of astronomy, the calendar system, and even language, with many terms such as "influence" and "disaster" having astrological origins.