Babylonian Horoscopes: The Ancient Practice of Astrology in Babylon
Astrology has a long and varied history, with roots tracing back to ancient civilizations such as the Babylonians. In this article, we will delve into the world of Babylonian horoscopes and explore the ways in which the Babylonians practiced astrology.
The Babylonians were an ancient civilization that flourished in Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq) from the 18th to the 6th centuries BCE. They are known for their contributions to science, mathematics, and astronomy, and their fascination with the stars and planets played a significant role in their culture and daily lives.
The Creation of Horoscopes
One aspect of Babylonian astrology was the creation of horoscopes, which were used to predict the future and offer guidance to individuals. Horoscopes were created based on the positions of the sun, moon, and planets at the time of an individual’s birth.
The Babylonians believed that these celestial bodies held significant influence over an individual’s personality, life events, and future.
How They Did It
To create a horoscope, the Babylonians used a system of celestial omens, which were believed to reveal the will of the gods. These omens were derived from the positions and movements of the celestial bodies and were recorded in cuneiform tablets, which were then studied by astrologers to predict the future.
The Babylonians also divided the sky into twelve constellations, which corresponded to the twelve months of the year. Each constellation was associated with a specific set of characteristics and traits, and an individual’s horoscope was determined by the constellation that the sun was in at the time of their birth.
Guidance on Life Decisions
In addition to using horoscopes to predict the future, the Babylonians also used astrology to make important life decisions, such as choosing a spouse or selecting a career path.
Astrology was an important aspect of Babylonian culture and was often consulted in matters of state, as well as in the personal lives of individuals.
Today, astrology and horoscopes continue to be popular and are used by many people around the world as a way to gain insight and guidance in their lives. While the specific practices and beliefs of the Babylonians may have evolved over time, their fascination with the stars and their influence on our lives lives on to this very day.