Introduction: The Stars and Human Questions

Do we really have a special purpose on this earth? This question keeps drifting into our minds. Since time immemorial, people wondered the question, gazing at the light in the sky-from the stars and the planets-to gather an answer. Astrology is part of the ancient belief that holds the position and movement of planets and stars can help guide the path of life for humans. But is that belief rational?

Let's learn more about the origin, influence, and truth of astrology in today's discussion.

Origin of Astrology: Roots of Relationship with Civilization

Astrology has very ancient origins. It began in the ancient Babylonian civilization when the first attempts to predict what was going to be and foretell the future were made by observing the places of the planets and stars. The Babylonians believed that the patterns or arrangements of the sky had a deep impact on human life.

This knowledge spread to Greek, Egyptian, and Indian cultures. Greek philosophers such as Plato and Pythagoras studied this subject. Indian astrology which is nowadays known as Vedic astrology gained great popularity thousands of years ago.

Vedic Astrology and Religious Connection

Indian astrology has deep ties with religious culture. As per the Vedic texts, astrology is treated as a form of "divine knowledge". A person's predisposition to his fate and personality is decided based on the position of planets and signs or rashi-chakra. For example, Saturn is often believed to be symbolic for getting faced by obstacles in life.

Influence of planets and stars: reality or superstition?

One of the axioms of astrology is that the planetary position and star positions influence every area of our lives. An horoscope or kundli is designed when the position of planets and stars at a specific place and time at the time of birth is analyzed .

How does a horoscope work?

Let's take an example where Mars is a good planetary candidate in the horoscope of the individual. Astrology says that it makes that person bold, enterprising, and hardworking. On the other hand, if Venus is strong, that person might be attracted towards art and culture.

The horoscope is believed in astrology supporters to shape one's course of life in the near future. Scientific evidence in that area is not quite strong

Practical illustration

Many people believe that astrology has played an important role in deciding major decisions about their life. For example, an astrologer advised a business man about his timing of doing business, and he became successful. Although this does not prove the fact that astrology is the reason, but it increased the mental peace and confidence of the person .

Zodiac Signs and Personality: People's Beliefs vs. Reality

Horoscopes are that part of astrology which claims to foresee or predict the personality and daily life of the individual by their zodiac sign or Sun Sign.

Characteristics of the Zodiac signs

Every zodiac sign is said to have some characteristics. For example:-

Aries: A daring, leadership-oriented, and enterprising personality.

Taurus: patient, loving, and of traditional nature.

Gemini: Sociable, intelligent, and creative.

However, many scientists postulate that horoscope has nothing to do with human personality.

People believe in horoscopes because it gives some kind of guidance to life. Many are facing crises in life and search for solace with the help of horoscopes. It is their way of finding mental peace.

Astrology and Science: A Battleground

Astrology has been indicted long for its part in the science world. According to scientists, there is no functional relationship between the position of planets and stars and human life. However, on the other side, people who support astrology see it not only as science but also as a spiritual knowledge.

Can astrology be a science?

Astrologers sustain the argument that ancient wisdom of astrology decides a certain rhythm or pattern in human life. Scientists say these rhythms are merely coincidences .

Psychological effects

Scientists also consider that astrology creates psychological effects. Whenever individuals are not sure of the future, they seek astrology for mental relief. This creates a kind of placebo effect.

The role of astrology in life's crises: solution or superstition?

Astrology provides immense mental relief to many during the difficult times in life. Like one is facing obstacles in his career and is not successful. Then he approaches an astrologer and undergoes various remedies.

Remedies and rituals

Astrologers prescribe multiple remedies. These include:-

Wearing stones: Reducing the evil effects of planets by wearing stones like ruby, sapphire or emerald.

Puja or Yajna: The worship of a specific god or enhancing the auspiciousness of certain planets by doing Yajna.

Superstition Dangers

While these remedies can be psychologically beneficial to people, most of them become superstitious. Some people become so dependent on astrology that they remain unable to solve real problems.

Astrology in Society and Culture: Its Significance

Astrology is not bounded to personal life only. It leaves deep impacts on different walks of society.

Kundali Matching for Marriage

In India, Kundali Matching before marriage is an essential procedure. Many families believe that it brings good luck and happiness to the married life.

Important Life Decisions

Life, with the help of Astrology Important decisions like naming a child, shifting a house, or business are determined.

Example

A politician, who is now a very successful politician, consulted an astrologer before taking up his political career. Although it is not the only reason for his success it has surely heightened his confidence.

Conclusion: The Future of Astrology

Astrology remains a topic of debate. Scientists deny its relevance, and others consider it a way to achieve peace of mind and guidance in life.

What does astrology teach us?

Astrology helps a man answer the bigger questions of life from a spiritual view. At the same time, it reminds one that anything happening in life are beyond our control; however, it should not be completely dependent on it.

Maybe the real power of astrology is not science but it gives confidence and improvement in mental state to people. Does astrology really help us explain our position? It is up to one's belief, experience, and perception.