Astrology is a symbolic language and interpretive system that studies the relationship between celestial movements and human life. It is based on the idea that the positions of the Sun, Moon, planets, and stars at the moment of birth reflect patterns of personality, behavior, emotions, and life experiences.

Astrology does not claim planets *cause* events; rather, it suggests they **correlate** with cycles and tendencies in human life. A person’s **birth chart (natal chart)** is the foundation of astrology, acting as a cosmic snapshot of the sky at the time and place of birth.

Astrology is commonly used for:

* Self-awareness and personal growth
* Relationship compatibility
* Career and financial guidance
* Timing important life decisions
* Spiritual understanding

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## 2. History of Astrology

Astrology is one of the world’s oldest metaphysical sciences, dating back over **5,000 years**.

### Ancient Civilizations

* **Mesopotamia (2000 BCE):** Babylonian astrologers tracked planetary movements to predict events affecting kings and empires.
* **Ancient Egypt:** Astrology was linked to spirituality, gods, and the afterlife.
* **Ancient India:** Jyotish (Vedic astrology) developed alongside astronomy and philosophy.
* **Ancient Greece:** Philosophers like Ptolemy systematized astrology, influencing Western astrology.

### Medieval to Modern Era

* Astrology was widely practiced by scholars, physicians, and astronomers.
* During the Renaissance, astrology and astronomy were closely connected.
* In modern times, astrology evolved into a tool for psychological insight and self-reflection.

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## 3. How Astrology Works

Astrology works through the interpretation of **planetary positions** across three main components:

### 1. Zodiac Signs

The zodiac consists of 12 signs, each representing a specific set of traits and energies.

### 2. Planets

Each planet governs a different area of life (mind, love, action, discipline, etc.).

### 3. Houses

The birth chart is divided into 12 houses, each representing a life domain such as career, relationships, or health.

Astrologers analyze how planets move (transits), interact (aspects), and activate different houses to interpret life patterns and future tendencies.

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## 4. Astrology vs Astronomy

| Astrology | Astronomy |
| —————————– | ——————————— |
| Symbolic and interpretive | Scientific and mathematical |
| Focuses on human life | Focuses on celestial objects |
| Used for insight and guidance | Used for research and observation |
| Ancient metaphysical system | Modern scientific discipline |

Although they share historical roots, astronomy studies *what happens in space*, while astrology studies *what it symbolizes for human life*.

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## 5. How to Read Your Birth Chart

A birth chart (natal chart) is created using:

* Date of birth
* Time of birth
* Place of birth

### Step-by-Step Basics

1. **Identify your Sun sign** – core identity
2. **Check your Moon sign** – emotions and inner world
3. **Find your Ascendant (Rising sign)** – outward personality
4. **Study planetary placements** – life themes
5. **Understand houses** – where life events occur
6. **Analyze aspects** – how energies interact

Reading a chart is about observing patterns rather than isolated placements.

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## 6–50. Definitions of Common Astrology Terms

### 6. Zodiac

A belt of the sky divided into 12 signs through which the Sun travels.

### 7. Sun Sign

Represents core personality, ego, and life purpose.

### 8. Moon Sign

Represents emotions, instincts, and subconscious mind.

### 9. Ascendant (Rising Sign)

The zodiac sign rising on the eastern horizon at birth.

### 10. Natal Chart

A map of planetary positions at the time of birth.

### 11. Planet

Celestial bodies representing psychological energies.

### 12. Mercury

Planet of communication, thinking, and learning.

### 13. Venus

Planet of love, beauty, relationships, and values.

### 14. Mars

Planet of action, drive, passion, and energy.

### 15. Jupiter

Planet of expansion, luck, wisdom, and growth.

### 16. Saturn

Planet of discipline, karma, responsibility, and structure.

### 17. Uranus

Planet of change, rebellion, and innovation.

### 18. Neptune

Planet of dreams, spirituality, and illusion.

### 19. Pluto

Planet of transformation, power, and rebirth.

### 20. House

A division of the birth chart representing life areas.

### 21. First House

House of self, identity, and appearance.

### 22. Seventh House

House of relationships and partnerships.

### 23. Tenth House

House of career, reputation, and public life.

### 24. Aspect

Angular relationship between planets.

### 25. Conjunction

Planets aligned together, blending energies.

### 26. Opposition

Planets facing each other, creating tension.

### 27. Trine

Harmonious aspect indicating ease and flow.

### 28. Square

Challenging aspect indicating conflict and growth.

### 29. Sextile

Supportive aspect encouraging opportunities.

### 30. Retrograde

Apparent backward movement of a planet.

### 31. Transit

Current planetary movement affecting a chart.

### 32. Progression

Symbolic movement of planets over time.

### 33. Nodes of the Moon

Indicators of life path and karmic lessons.

### 34. North Node

Represents future growth direction.

### 35. South Node

Represents past patterns and comfort zones.

### 36. Element

Fire, Earth, Air, and Water classifications.

### 37. Modality

Cardinal, Fixed, and Mutable energy types.

### 38. Fire Signs

Aries, Leo, Sagittarius – passion and action.

### 39. Earth Signs

Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn – stability and practicality.

### 40. Air Signs

Gemini, Libra, Aquarius – intellect and communication.

### 41. Water Signs

Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces – emotion and intuition.

### 42. Chart Ruler

Planet ruling the Ascendant sign.

### 43. Stellium

Three or more planets in one sign or house.

### 44. Eclipse

Powerful lunar or solar event signaling change.

### 45. Solar Return

Chart calculated for birthday each year.

### 46. Lunar Return

Chart calculated when Moon returns to natal position.

### 47. Synastry

Chart comparison for relationships.

### 48. Composite Chart

Combined chart of two people.

### 49. Degrees

Specific position of a planet in a sign.

### 50. Orb

Allowable distance between planets for aspects.