The Enigmatic Story of Astrology in India: A Universal Science
The practice of astrology probably began as soon as humans first started to observe astronomical cycles, with some of the earliest evidence dating from the 3rd millennium BCE. Throughout much of history up until the 17th century, astrology played a significant role in various civilizations, including India. Figures like the sage Bhirgu, one of the venerated Saptarishi or seven Vedic sages, are noted for their contributions to the field of Hindu astrology.
The original purpose of astrology was to inform the individual of the course of his life based on the positions of the planets and zodiacal signs at the moment of his birth or conception. This practice has a rich tradition in India, where it is still widely practiced and studied.
Spread and Variations Across India
While astrological practices and beliefs are widespread in India, they also vary significantly across different regions. My girlfriend from New Delhi shared that there are numerous variations and interpretations, with some viewing astrology as a life-wasting superstition. However, this perspective often reflects a misunderstanding of the complexity and role of astrology in Hindu culture.
Intercontinental Influence and Scientific Method
It is important to note that the story of astrology is not unique to India. Many of the principles and practices of Indian astrology came from Babylon and were further influenced by the Greeks (Yavanas), who were known for their expertise in astrology. Additionally, there exists an Islamic branch of Indian astrology known as the Tajik system, indicating that astrology has a universal base and is found in various ancient civilizations.
Those who argue against astrology often cite the lack of scientific evidence. However, contrary to such objections, astrology has always had a scientific methodology at its core. The scientific method, as we know it today, can trace its origins to ancient astrologers. Galileo, often credited as the father of the scientific method, was himself an astrologer. The steps in the scientific method include:
Observation of celestial phenomena, Hypothesis formation, Testing and replication, and Conclusion.The Abrahamic Traditions and Biblical References
The story of astrology in the Abrahamic traditions is deeply rooted in the Bible. The Hebrew word for “mishl” means “shine,” and the use of related words in the Bible highlights the celestial connections described in scripture. The Scriptures, passed down orally for hundreds of years before their written form, are terse and use minimum unnecessary words. Any Hebrew scholar would verify that Genesis has the least poetry of any book of the Bible. Many verses in the Bible suggest that the stars are intelligent beings and capable of praising God and bearing witness to His greatness, such as in Proverbs 31:9, Jeremiah 21:12, and Psalm 148:34.
The Talmud is filled with astrological references and symbology. Moses Maimonides, one of the greatest Biblical scholars of all times who lived in the 12th century, vindicated astrology with Biblical proof texts. St. Thomas Aquinas promoted astrology as a legitimate science worth studying, and several early Popes were themselves astrologers. The Magi, the first to welcome Jesus into the world and present Him with gifts, also illustrate the Lord’s acceptance of astrology.
Unique Continuity in India
What is unique about India is that it is the only civilization since Babylon that has had a living and vibrant astrological tradition, one that was never repressed as the science was in Europe for hundreds of years. Since the 18th century, the science of astrology has been revived in the West, and Hindu astrology has become very popular, with centers of study all over the western world.