Astrology Basics
What is Astrology?
Astrology is a belief system and practice that suggests a connection between the positions and movements of celestial bodies, such as the Sun, Moon, planets, and stars, and events and characteristics on Earth. It is based on the idea that these celestial bodies have an influence on human lives and can provide insights into personality traits, relationships, and future events.
Astrology typically involves the construction and interpretation of horoscopes, which are charts that depict the positions of celestial bodies at a specific time, usually the moment of a person's birth. These charts are believed to represent a person's unique cosmic blueprint and can be used to gain insight into their personality, strengths, weaknesses, and life events.
The foundation of astrology lies in the concept of the zodiac, which is a band of the sky divided into twelve equal parts, each associated with a particular constellation. The zodiac signs are based on the apparent path of the Sun as it moves through the sky over the course of a year. Each sign is believed to have specific characteristics and traits that influence individuals born under them.
Astrology also considers the interactions between celestial bodies, such as the angles formed between them (aspects), and the houses in a birth chart. The houses represent different areas of life, such as career, relationships, and health, and the aspects between planets are thought to influence the energies and dynamics within these areas.
Astrologers use their knowledge and interpretation of these celestial positions and relationships to make predictions and offer guidance on various aspects of life. They may analyze the birth chart of an individual or the alignment of celestial bodies at a particular moment in time to provide insights into personality traits, compatibility with others, career paths, and even potential future events.
It's important to note that astrology is considered a pseudoscience by the scientific community. Its claims have not been substantiated by empirical evidence or the scientific method, which relies on objective observation, experimentation, and reproducibility. Critics argue that any perceived connections between celestial bodies and human affairs are purely coincidental and that astrology lacks a plausible mechanism of action.
However, despite its lack of scientific validation, astrology continues to be popular among many individuals who find personal meaning, guidance, and entertainment in its practice. It holds a significant cultural and historical importance and has evolved and diversified over time, incorporating various cultural and regional traditions.
Astrology History
Astrology is an ancient practice that has been around for thousands of years, with its origins dating back to the ancient civilizations of Mesopotamia, Egypt, and Greece. The term "astrology" is derived from the Greek words "astron," meaning star, and "logos," meaning study or discourse. It is often referred to as the study of the movements and positions of celestial bodies and their influence on human affairs and the natural world.
The history of astrology can be traced back to ancient Mesopotamia, where the Babylonians developed one of the earliest astrological systems around the 2nd millennium BCE. They believed that the positions and movements of celestial bodies, such as the Sun, Moon, planets, and stars, held significance and could provide insights into the future and human behavior.
The Babylonians created intricate astronomical and astrological texts known as cuneiform tablets, which contained observations, calculations, and interpretations of celestial events. These tablets documented celestial omens, planetary movements, and other astrological phenomena, forming the foundation of early astrological practices.
Astrology also played a significant role in ancient Egypt. The Egyptians associated specific gods and goddesses with celestial bodies and believed that the movements of these bodies held divine significance. Astrology was used to guide important decisions, such as determining the timing of agricultural activities, predicting the flooding of the Nile River, and determining the fortunes of individuals and the pharaohs.
In ancient Greece, astrology was further developed and refined by notable figures such as Ptolemy and Hippocrates. Ptolemy's work "Tetrabiblos" became a fundamental text on astrology, outlining the principles of natal astrology and emphasizing the influence of the planets and zodiac signs on human personality and fate.
During the Hellenistic period, astrology spread across the ancient world, incorporating influences from various cultures, including the Persian, Indian, and Chinese astrological traditions. The Romans also adopted astrology, integrating it into their religious and political practices.
In the Middle Ages, astrology faced challenges due to the rise of Christianity and the Church's opposition to practices considered pagan or heretical. However, astrology continued to flourish in Islamic cultures, where Persian and Indian astrological traditions merged with Greek astrology, leading to the development of influential texts like the "Picatrix" and the "Kitāb al-Mawālīd" (Book of Births).
Astrology experienced a resurgence during the Renaissance in Europe, as scholars rediscovered ancient texts and sought to reconcile astrology with Christian teachings. The works of figures such as Johannes Kepler and Galileo Galilei demonstrated an interest in astrology, although they also emphasized the scientific study of astronomy.
In the modern era, astrology has become popular in various forms. Different schools of thought and approaches to astrology have emerged, including Western astrology, Vedic astrology (from India), and Chinese astrology. Astrology is often used for personal guidance, character analysis, and predicting future events.
While astrology has retained its popularity and cultural significance, it is important to note that it is considered a pseudoscience by the scientific community. Astrology's claims have not been supported by empirical evidence and are not recognized as valid explanations of natural phenomena by the scientific method. However, astrology continues to be a subject of interest and fascination for many people around the world.
Astrology Basics
Astrology is a complex system with various components and techniques, but here are some of the fundamental concepts and terms to help you understand the basics:
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Zodiac Signs: The zodiac is divided into twelve equal parts, known as zodiac signs or sun signs. Each sign is associated with specific dates of the year and is believed to have distinct personality traits and characteristics. The twelve signs, in order, are: Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, and Pisces.
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Planets: In astrology, various celestial bodies, including the Sun and Moon, are considered planets. Each planet is associated with different energies and qualities. The traditional planets used in astrology are Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, and the luminaries, the Sun and Moon. Astrologers analyze the positions and aspects of these planets in a birth chart to understand their influence on an individual.
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Birth Chart/Horoscope: A birth chart, also known as a horoscope, is a map of the sky at the time of a person's birth. It shows the positions of planets, the Sun, Moon, and other astrological points, as well as the division of the chart into twelve houses. The birth chart serves as a snapshot of an individual's cosmic influences and is used for astrological analysis and interpretation.
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Houses: The birth chart is divided into twelve houses, each representing a specific area of life. Each house is associated with different aspects, such as personality, career, relationships, home, and spirituality. The interpretation of planets within specific houses provides insights into the various life areas and experiences.
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Aspects: Aspects are angles formed between planets within a birth chart. These angles indicate the relationships and interactions between celestial bodies. Common aspects include conjunction (when planets are close together), opposition (when planets are directly across from each other), trine (120-degree angle), square (90-degree angle), and sextile (60-degree angle). Aspects are believed to influence the energies and dynamics between different planetary influences.
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Rising Sign/Ascendant: The rising sign, also known as the ascendant, is the zodiac sign that was on the eastern horizon at the time of birth. It represents the individual's outward personality and the way they present themselves to the world. The rising sign is determined by the exact time and location of birth and plays a significant role in the interpretation of a birth chart.
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Retrograde Motion: Retrograde motion refers to the apparent backward movement of a planet in its orbit as observed from Earth. During a retrograde period, the influence of the planet is believed to be more introspective and may manifest in a unique way. Retrogrades are often considered as times for reflection, reevaluation, and revisiting certain areas of life associated with the retrograde planet.
These are just some of the foundational concepts in astrology. Astrology is a vast field with different branches and techniques, including natal astrology (focused on the individual's birth chart), horary astrology (answering specific questions), and electional astrology (choosing auspicious times for events). Professional astrologers use these concepts and more to provide insights, predictions, and guidance based on an individual's birth chart and celestial influences.
Planetary Intentions
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Moon: As the moon is the celestial body that governs the new moon, it is often associated with new beginnings, intuition, emotions, and the divine feminine. The moon is also associated with the element of water.
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Sun: The sun is often associated with growth, vitality, and masculine energy. It is also associated with the element of fire.
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Mercury: Mercury is often associated with communication, intellect, and travel.
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Venus: Venus is often associated with love, beauty, and relationships.
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Mars: Mars is often associated with passion, energy, and assertiveness.
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Jupiter: Jupiter is often associated with abundance, prosperity, and expansion.
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Saturn: Saturn is often associated with discipline, structure, and the passage of time.
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Uranus: Uranus is often associated with change, innovation, and rebellion.
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Neptune: Neptune is often associated with spirituality, creativity, and illusion.
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Pluto: Pluto is often associated with transformation, endings, and the underworld.
Prosperity/Money/Abundance
2nd House represents your money
Jupiter ~ Abundance, Good fortune. Associated it with growth, expansion, and opportunities
Mercury ~ financial gain through business and communication skills
Saturn ~ gives the motivation to hold onto money
What’s Your Magick Skill? Based on your Zodiac’s Element
Element of Fire
Those influenced by the signs of Aries, Leo, Sagittarius or have major planets in these Signs (especially Moon and Mercury) are the Fire Element. Fire is an Element which demands respect. It’s friendly yet dangerous and reckless. We do NOT play with fire. Witches respect and harness with boldness its power.
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Candle Magic
This may be the most famous practice in the history of Witchcraft. Candles have always been associated with magic, religion and all spiritual and divine practices since antiquity. Candle Magic is straight-forward and most usually all you need is the right candle and your desire!
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Exorcism
When we are actually talking about Exorcism, we are referring to this part of Magic when you focus your will to assert your spirit’s or divine entity’s will, over someone else who is ‘possessed’ or spellbound by the Dark Arts. This is actually a very powerful form of magic which suits the Element of Fire, the ones who are brave and potent. However, you should know that this is a very advanced practice. Not for the novice ones.
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Purification
To reach exorcism one should first learn to practice Purification spells. Because of the cleansing properties of the Element of Fire, one who is close to this element can actually repel all unwanted energies from something or someone. Cleansing is associated with both Fire and Water although with fire things go wild – instantly.
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Healing
Healing is based on the Arcane theory that all conditions of human body, mind and soul are based on the flow of the Magical Energy – also known as Chi. Therefore, one can heal by manipulating this energy. The ones who are considered to do so more effectively are the ones who belong to the element of fire (and water). Although all elements can heal, fire can do it miraculously.
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Energy Manipulation
Healing is based on Energy Manipulation as already noted above. Fire is pure energy (the purest form on this Realm). Therefore, one who can manipulate energy, can actually send it through time and space. This is one of the coolest things a Witch can do.
Element of Earth
In this team belong all who are born under the influence of Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn or have major planets in these Signs (especially Moon and Mercury).
Fire is an Element which demands patience. It’s cold and dark but its powers open bring abundance and steady power. Witches harness with patience and determination its power.
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Druid Magic & Manipulation of Nature’s forces
By ‘Druid Magic’ we usually call all the magical practices which require the element of Earth, the power of the Forests, trees, herbs and roots along with the power of animals. Druids were known for their uncanny knowledge over herbs, trees and animals. Those born under the influence of the Earth can actually use this relationship with the Forests to perform powerful magic.
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Crystal Magic
One more of this Elements vast powers is the Crystal Magic. All these who are born under the Influence of Earth can actually do miracle by using Crystals. Indeed, they can use the crystals to bring abundance, balance, vitality and protection. Crystals talk to these people.
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Runes
These arcane symbols of pure magical power are known to represent several entities and/or forces of nature. Runes are usually inscribed on wood or stones or even on the ground. This actually makes the ground/crystal/wood a portal from which the energy of the rune comes forth.
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Protection
As the Earth is solid and stable it looked pretty defensive to the ancient Witches and Wizards. They saw how the tides hit the steady mountains without affecting them. Therefore, they understood that one of the most potent abilities of the element is Protection against malicious energies.
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Kindred Animals
Those who belong to the Element of Earth are believed to be closer to all living things both plants and animals. Therefore, they can more effectively ‘connect’ with totems, and ask help from them. All they have to do is perform a simple ritual to send this signal to the Spirit Realm.
Element of Air
In this team belong all who are born under the influence of Gemini, Libra, Aquarius or have major planets in these Signs (especially Moon and Mercury).
Air is an Element which demands free thinking. It’s unstable and fierce but its powers can bring freedom, focused power, independence and effective communication. Witches harness with patience and determination its power.
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Knot Magic
One of the most ancient and potent forms of Magic is the Knot Magic. It requires minimum time, minimum expenses but a lot of focus. This is there the Element of Air kicks in. In order to perform all kinds of Air Magic you need focus and mental clarity. This is why those who are born under the influence of Air are better in these kinds of spells.
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Contacting Spirits
Anyone who possesses a spirit can contact another spirit. Hence, all humans can reach other spirits and entities as long as they are focused enough and know so much their mind that they can actually understand their thoughts and the thoughts of others. This is why contacting spirits is actually so potent in the hands of those born under the influence of air.
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Telepathy & Thought Manipulation
Telepathy is actually ‘reading’ someone’s mind without words or other physical means. It’s pure thought transferred to another person. A telepathic person can actually send or receive messages.
Hence can actually affect thoughts. This is why a telepathic person is extremely powerful and also dangerous. Many armies in the world tried and still trying to enhance these powers.
Some are good at sending a thought/image/feeling, some at receiving, some in both. Those born under the influence of Air are believed to be natural talents in Telepathy.
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Remote Viewing
Remote Viewing is the ability to transfer our awareness to another time or space without actually traveling there. Therefore, if we do that, we can actually gather much information about history, magic and so on. Remote Viewing is extremely valuable to secret societies and military forces who practice it in the present time.
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Astral Projection
This amazing ability is to project ‘one of our bodies’ through the Astral Realm. What is the Astral Realm you say? Well it’s actually a different world than ours, which vibrates higher in spiritual frequency. Therefore, when we are out there we can learn from the Spirits and the entities that dwell.
Element of Water
In this team belong all who are born under the influence of Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces or have major planets in these Signs (especially Moon and Mercury).
Water is an Element which demands love and powerful emotions. It’s unstable and cold but its powers can bring balance, intuitive powers, power over the Realm of dreams and casting Illusions. Witches harness with love and patience its power.
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Mirror Magic
Mirror Magic (Water) is the equivalent to Knot Magic (Air), Candle Magic(Fire) and Crystal Magic (Earth) as one of the most ancient paths of Magic. As Mirrors are also created by the still waters of the lake, a well or the sea, Mirror Magic belongs to the Element of Water.
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Illusions
As the Waters, the Rain and Fogs (all belonging to the element of Water) can compromise the Vision, water magic can be used to create illusions. Even watches the move ‘Craft’? Where there you would see a bunch of young girls playing with Glamour Magic – which actually works!
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Enchantments
Anything can be enchanted, anything! Every material thing can be drenched into magical energy and become something else (learn here how to do it properly). Charms and enchantments are used as a mobile magical device to echo the power of the Enchanter. So What’s Your Magic?
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Divination
Those born under the influence of Water are believed to have the ability to ‘see visions’ and receive prophetic dreams easier than others. Something that’s even closer to them is Hydromancy – the Art of Divination which solely used the Element of Water. Secrets… only Water can tell!
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Dream-walking
Birth Stones and Meanings
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January - Garnet: Symbolizes protection, strength, and commitment. It is believed to enhance energy, promote positive feelings, and bring success in relationships.
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February - Amethyst: Represents peace, stability, and inner strength. It is associated with spiritual growth, clarity of mind, and balance.
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March - Aquamarine: Symbolizes courage, serenity, and harmony. It is believed to bring a sense of calmness, clarity, and good communication.
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April - Diamond: Signifies love, purity, and eternal strength. It is associated with clarity, abundance, and spiritual enlightenment.
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May - Emerald: Represents love, fertility, and rebirth. It is believed to bring harmony, promote healing, and enhance intuition.
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June - Pearl, Alexandrite, or Moonstone: Pearls symbolize purity, innocence, and emotional balance. Alexandrite represents joy, luck, and prosperity. Moonstone is associated with intuition, emotional healing, and feminine energy.
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July - Ruby: Signifies passion, energy, and vitality. It is believed to bring courage, success, and love.
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August - Peridot: Represents strength, protection, and positivity. It is associated with abundance, good fortune, and personal growth.
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September - Sapphire: Symbolizes wisdom, loyalty, and nobility. It is believed to bring mental clarity, spiritual insight, and protection.
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October - Opal or Tourmaline: Opal represents creativity, inspiration, and passion. It is associated with emotional healing and enhancing imagination. Tourmaline signifies balance, energy, and protection.
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November - Topaz or Citrine: Topaz symbolizes love, affection, and good fortune. It is believed to bring clarity, abundance, and positive energy. Citrine represents joy, success, and manifestation.
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December - Turquoise, Tanzanite, or Zircon: Turquoise represents wisdom, protection, and positive energy. It is associated with healing, friendship, and spiritual attunement. Tanzanite signifies transformation, spiritual growth, and psychic abilities. Zircon represents clarity, grounding, and protection.
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Please note that birthstones can vary across cultures and traditions, and alternative gemstones may be associated with specific months as well.
Birth Flowers and Meanings
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January - Carnation or Snowdrop:
Carnation: Symbolizes love, fascination, and distinction. Different colors of carnations carry additional meanings, such as red for love, pink for motherly love, and white for purity.
Snowdrop: Represents hope, purity, and rebirth. It is often associated with the arrival of spring and new beginnings.
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February - Violet or Primrose:
Violet: Symbolizes modesty, faithfulness, and virtue. It is associated with loyalty, devotion, and deep affection.
Primrose: Represents young love, joy, and new beginnings. It signifies the first signs of spring and is associated with happiness and cheerfulness.
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March - Daffodil or Jonquil:
Daffodil: Symbolizes renewal, new beginnings, and inspiration. It represents hope and is associated with optimism and positive energy.
Jonquil: Represents sympathy, affection, and desire. It signifies a deep emotional attachment and is often associated with affectionate gestures.
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April - Daisy or Sweet Pea:
Daisy: Symbolizes purity, innocence, and loyal love. It represents simplicity and is associated with new beginnings and emotional purity.
Sweet Pea: Represents blissful pleasure, delicate or fleeting joy. It signifies gratitude, appreciation, and the enjoyment of life's simple pleasures.
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May - Lily of the Valley or Hawthorn:
Lily of the Valley: Symbolizes sweetness, humility, and the return of happiness. It represents purity of heart and is associated with luck and good fortune.
Hawthorn: Represents hope, fertility, and protection. It signifies inner balance, love, and unity.
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June - Rose or Honeysuckle:
Rose: Symbolizes love, beauty, and passion. Different colors of roses carry additional meanings, such as red for love, pink for gratitude, and yellow for friendship.
Honeysuckle: Represents devotion, everlasting love, and sweetness. It signifies bonds of love, happiness, and affectionate memories.
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July - Larkspur or Water Lily:
Larkspur: Symbolizes lightness, levity, and an open heart. It represents strong bonds of love, joy, and positivity.
Water Lily: Represents purity of heart, enlightenment, and rebirth. It signifies tranquility, beauty, and the awakening of the soul.
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August - Gladiolus or Poppy:
Gladiolus: Symbolizes strength of character, integrity, and sincerity. It represents honor, remembrance, and the power of moral values.
Poppy: Represents imagination, peace, and sleep. It signifies beauty, consolation, and the ephemeral nature of life.
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September - Aster or Morning Glory:
Aster: Symbolizes wisdom, love, and faith. It represents elegance, patience, and delicate beauty.
Morning Glory: Represents affection, love, and mortality. It signifies the renewal of life, spirituality, and the importance of seizing the day.
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October - Marigold or Cosmos:
Marigold: Symbolizes passion, creativity, and warm affection. It represents grace, strong relationships, and positive energy.
Cosmos: Represents order, harmony, and eternal love. It signifies peaceful interactions, balance, and beauty.
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November - Chrysanthemum:
Chrysanthemum: Symbolizes joy, happiness, and longevity. It represents friendship, abundance, and positive vibrations.
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December - Narcissus or Holly:
Narcissus: Represents self-esteem, renewal, and prosperity. It signifies good wishes, hope, and the celebration of new beginnings.
Holly: Symbolizes fertility, protection, and eternal life. It represents goodwill, generosity, and a joyful spirit.
Please note that birth flowers can vary across cultures and traditions, and alternative flowers may be associated with specific months as well.
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