Astrology is a symbolic system that uses the positions of the Sun, Moon, planets and other celestial bodies to explore personality, relationships and recurring life themes. Most people first encounter astrology through zodiac signs and horoscopes, but a full astrology reading looks at a birth chart, which maps the sky at a specific time and place, usually the moment of birth.
Most people are familiar with astrology through their “sign,” which corresponds to one of the 12 zodiac constellations. This form, known as sun-sign astrology, is the basis for newspaper horoscopes. It is the simplest type, as only the date of birth is needed to generate a horoscope. However, many astrologers believe that this approach is overly simplistic and offers limited accuracy.
Astrology Meaning in Simple Terms
Put simply, astrology is a way of interpreting patterns in a birth chart. Astrologers consider the planets, zodiac signs, houses and the relationships between them as a framework for exploring personality, recurring patterns and personal guidance.
How Does a Birth Chart Work?
A birth chart is a snapshot of the sky at the time and place you were born.
- Planets represent different themes and parts of life.
- Zodiac signs describe how those themes may be expressed.
- Houses represent areas of life such as relationships, home and work.
- Aspects describe how different planets interact within the chart.
To produce a more accurate reading, astrologers check to see what sign each planet was in at the time of birth. The planets and signs combine with other elements, such as houses and angles, to form a complex and often very specific profile of a subject’s personality, life and future prospects.
Astrology does not follow a single unified theory or practice. Ancient cultures developed their own forms, some of which merged into modern Western astrology. Eastern cultures maintain distinct practices, including Chinese, Vedic, and Tibetan astrology, which are among the most well-known today.
Even within western astrology, there is a considerable diversity of methods and philosophies. Some divide astrology by the end result that is intended:
Mundane Astrology
Mundane astrology is a branch focused on analysing global events. It is used to predict national affairs, such as wars, political changes, and economic trends. This approach looks at the influence of cosmic events on countries and large-scale societal developments.
Horary Astrology
Horary astrology uses a chart created for the moment a specific question is asked. It explores that question in a focused way and can be useful when someone wants guidance around a particular situation or decision.
Natal Astrology
This is what most people think of when they think of astrology. Natal Astrology seeks to make predictions and analyses based on the date of a person’s birth. It’s based on the idea that everything that happens to something is expressed at the very beginning of that thing, sometimes known as the Law of Beginnings.
If you’d like to explore your own birth chart, learn more about our Astrology Readings in Sydney or schedule an appointment.
