Horoscope

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Natal Chart -- Adam

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Astrological birth chart for Charles I, King of England Wellcome L0040329

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Astro signs

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Chinese Zodiac carvings on ceiling of Kushida Shrine, Fukuoka

Horoscope is an astrological chart or diagram representing the positions of the Sun, Moon, planets, astrological aspects, and sensitive angles at the time of an event, such as the moment of a person's birth. The word horoscope is derived from the Greek words ōra and scopos meaning "time" and "observer" respectively. Horoscopes are used as a method of divination regarding events relating to the point in time it represents and forms the basis of the horoscopic traditions of astrology.

History

The practice of horoscopy within Western astrology dates back to the Hellenistic period, although the use of astrology to predict future events and describe a person's character predates this by several millennia, with roots in calendrical systems used to predict seasonal shifts and to interpret celestial cycles as signs of divine communications. Throughout history, horoscopes have provided comfort, guidance, and predictions to individuals, ranging from royalty to common folk, influencing decisions and perspectives on life events.

Components of a Horoscope

A horoscope is divided into certain sections, each representing different aspects of life. The primary components include:

• Zodiac Signs: The ecliptic is divided into twelve signs, each occupying 30° of celestial longitude and roughly corresponding to the constellations with the same names. These signs form the basis of a person's basic traits and characteristics based on the sun's position at birth.
• Houses: The horoscope is divided into 12 segments, called houses, each representing different areas of life, such as identity, wealth, communication, and relationships. The placement of planets within these houses is said to influence various aspects of personal life and destiny.
• Planets: In astrology, the Sun, Moon, and planets are considered to influence human affairs and personalities. Each planet governs specific aspects and characteristics, affecting different parts of an individual's life depending on their placement within the zodiac and houses.
• Aspects: These are angles the planets make to each other in the horoscope, as well as to the ascendant, midheaven, descendant, lower midheaven, and other points of astrological interest. Aspects can be conjunctions, sextiles, squares, trines, and oppositions, each with its own meaning and influence.

Types of Horoscopes

There are various types of horoscopes, including but not limited to:

• Natal Horoscope: A chart drawn for the exact time of a person's birth, used in personal astrology to gain insight into an individual's personality and potential life path.
• Transit Horoscope: Focuses on the ongoing movement of planets and how they interact with the positions of the planets in the natal chart, indicating trends and events in a person's life.
• Synastry Horoscope: Used in relationship astrology to compare the horoscopes of two individuals and assess their compatibility and potential challenges in a relationship.
• Horary Horoscope: A chart drawn for the time and place a question is asked, used to predict the outcome of specific events or decisions.

Cultural and Scientific Perspective

While horoscopes and astrology have been part of human culture for thousands of years, their validity and usefulness are subjects of ongoing debate. Critics argue that astrology lacks empirical evidence and scientific basis, classifying it as a pseudoscience. Supporters, however, view astrology and horoscopes as symbolic languages and tools for self-reflection, personal growth, and understanding human behavior.