The History of Astrology - Part 4: Its Influence on Religion, Mythology, Culture, Science and Medicine

Astrology is far more than the calculation of planets and stars. This is a system that has shaped every dimension of human civilization for thousands of years. From religion to medicine, from symbolic narratives to the foundations of rational inquiry, astrology has influenced beliefs as well as behaviors, customs and the very structure of knowledge.

1. The Place of Astrology in Religion

In the Vedic Tradition

Astrology is recognized as a Vedanga in Indian culture - a limb that supports understanding of the Vedas. Vedic astrology (Jyotisha) is not only a means of reading past karmas mapped at birth but also a resource for determining the auspicious moments for yajna, puja and all religious ceremonies.

In Ancient Egypt and Babylon

Celestial events were seen as messages from the gods in both Egyptian and Babylonian civilizations. Priests held exclusive authority to interpret astronomical phenomena and their influence extended to royal policy and decisions.

In Christianity

Astrological tradition also shadows Christian history. The New Testament describes the “Magi” - astrologers who, guided by celestial signs, foretold the birth of Jesus.

In Islamic Tradition

Some Islamic scholars regard astrology with caution, yet in the medieval Islamic world, astrology propelled advances in astronomy, mathematics and medicine. Many renowned Muslim astronomers contributed to horoscopic calculations and planetary studies.

2. Astrology and Mythological Narratives

Astrology and myth are deeply intertwined. Nearly every civilization has depicted celestial bodies as deities, demons or legendary beings.

• Signs and Deities: For example, Leo symbolizes strength and leadership, rooted in India in the qualities of Surya (the Sun).
• Astronomical Events and Myths: Eclipses and meteor showers have often been interpreted as divine wrath or omens. Mythological stories view astrology as a symbolic tool for understanding life’s deep truths - not just for prediction.

3. Cultural Impact

Astrology has shaped more than just religious outlooks and myth; it influences social rituals, lifestyles and core cultural values.

• Marriage and Muhurat: In India, astrology guides crucial events such as weddings, housewarmings and naming ceremonies.
• Renaissance Europe: During the Medieval and Renaissance periods, astrology was taught in universities. Great minds like Kepler and Newton showed interest in astrology.
• Artistic Expression: In painting, music and literature, planetary symbols, zodiac signs and astrological motifs appear everywhere - on temple ceilings and in Renaissance masterpieces.

4. The Link Between Astrology and the Sciences

Though today astrology is sometimes labeled as a "pseudoscience," its contribution to the birth of modern sciences is profound.

• Rise of Astronomy: Ancient efforts to understand the movement of planets and stars gave rise to astronomy.
• Mathematics and Geometry: The calculation of eclipses, creation of panchangs (almanacs) and planetary positions spurred progress in mathematics, geometry and trigonometry.
• Instruments: Tools like the astrolabe, sundial and traditional almanac were invented to refine astrological calculations.

5. Influence of Astrology on Medicine

Astrology and healing share deep roots, especially in the medical systems of antiquity which saw the body as linked to the cosmos - known as Medical Astrology.

• Greek and Greco-Indian Medical Thought: According to the theory of humors, the body’s four fluids - blood, phlegm, yellow bile, black bile - were each linked to planetary influence.
• Horoscope and Treatment: Medical decisions often depended on the birth chart - the nature, timing and remedy for ailments.
• Date and Disease: In some traditions, the Moon’s position and the auspiciousness of the moment were observed for treatment. Even today, Ayurveda and Unani (Yonani) medicine use some astrological principles.

A Living Source of Human Insight

Astrology is not just an ancient system of prediction. It stands as a reservoir of intellectual, cultural and spiritual growth in human civilization. Its presence is alive in faiths, stories, science and the arts. The historical influence of astrology remains woven into the fabric of self-understanding and cultural identity - a source of reflection, inspiration and transformation in every era.