Zodiac

Zodiac refers to an imaginary belt in the heavens extending approximately 8 degrees on either side of the Ecliptic, the apparent path of the Sun across the celestial sphere over the course of the year. It is significant in astrology.

Overview

The term "zodiac" derives from Latin zōdiacus, which in its turn comes from the Greek ζoδιακoς κύκλος (zōdiakos kyklos), meaning "circle of animals". The zodiac is divided into twelve equal parts, each named after the constellation which appears in it, although modern astronomers prefer to refer to them as "zodiac signs".

Zodiac Signs

The twelve zodiac signs are: Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, and Pisces. Each sign is associated with a set of characteristics or traits.

History

The concept of the zodiac originated in Babylonian astrology, and was later influenced by Hellenistic culture. The zodiac as we know it today is a circle of twelve 30° divisions of celestial longitude that are centered upon the ecliptic: the apparent path of the Sun across the celestial sphere over the course of the year.

In Astrology

In astrology, the zodiac is used to determine a person's astrological sign based on when the Sun was at a specific point in the zodiac at the time of their birth. Each sign has specific characteristics which are believed to influence a person's personality and destiny.

See Also

• Astrological sign
• Astrology
• Horoscope
• Ecliptic
• Sun

Zodiac Resources
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