The History of Astrology
Little did I know 30 years ago when I mistakenly purchased an Astrology book, believing it to be a novel, I had just opened the door to an ancient system of insight and divination. A system as it turns out that would profoundly change my life. Like Alice through the Looking Glass, I fell into a world of signs and symbols representing some of humankind’s earliest observations and collective wisdom dating back almost 5,000 years.
In the Beginning
Today astrology and astronomy are distinct and separate disciplines. This wasn’t always so. Approximately 2000 B. C. our ancestors watched, studied, and mapped the movement of constellations of stars and planets as these celestial bodies appeared to rise over the Eastern horizon, and move on their appointed course across the sky. What at first must have seemed like random occurrences or chaos began to appear as purposeful patterns.
Based on years of watching this cosmic dance, observers created theories. Knowledge of repeating patterns became useful tools to predict seasons and weather conditions. These in turn guided the planting and harvesting of crops, migrations from one geographical area to another, and similar behaviors. In no small way, I am indebted to these early astrologers for painstakingly crafting observations into recommendations. Otherwise, I might be planting my vegetable garden in February instead of May! Hopefully it comes as no surprise that we are the fortunate recipients of our ancestors due diligence in connecting the celestial dots.
From the Egyptians to the Babylonians, to the Greeks, and Romans, the growing body of knowledge known as Astrology spread across the world. Why? Because it works. Success with predicting weather and natural disasters evolved into more sophisticated and complex theories and beliefs. These allowed devotees to take another leap and use the mapping of the celestial bodies to understand and predict events in the lives of human beings.
Soon it was not just farmers who relied on Astrology, but also kings and rulers kept cosmic savvy advisors by their sides. Great philosophers and mathematicians including Ptolemy, Plato, Aristotle, Copernicus and Sir Isaac Newton were among those scientists who experimented with the application of theories of astronomy and astrology. Hippocrates, the famous Greek physician is quoted as saying “A physician without a knowledge of Astrology has no right to call himself a physician.” Historically Astrology has been used to plan important actions ranging from declaring war to celebrating a wedding.
Throughout the history of Astrology, various cultures adopted these principles in one form or another. Systems were revised and adapted. In some cases, cultures developed their own fairly unique versions and interpretations. For example, there are 5 chinese zodiac elements (fire, wood, earth, metal, and water) and 12 animals. Today, Vedic and Western Astrology are probably the most popular and prevalent systems, with Western Astrology also known as Tropical, being the most familiar. (As a Western Astrologer, this article reflects my understanding and experience with this version.)
We Are More Than Our Sun Signs
What first grabbed my attention and made me give Astrology a second look, was realizing the history of astrology provides a rich, complex, but cohesive picture that involves not only the Sun, but all the known planets in our solar system. “What’s your Sun Sign?” is not only an antiquated pick-up line; it’s only the tip of the cosmic iceberg.
Throughout time, astrologers have developed simple yet sophisticated meanings for each of the planets. For example, the Sun represents personal ego and how we think of ourselves. The Moon describes emotional expression and may also be a key to understanding the relationship with our mothers. Mars represents motivation; Saturn is the planet of discipline; and so on. The real practice of astrology is far more complex and interesting than the familiar paragraph predictions based on Sun Sign Astrology. However, these pithy daily, weekly, or monthly horoscopes can be amazingly accurate and helpful!
Comparing Sun Sign Astrology to the usual more comprehensive practice of Astrology feels something like this. It’s the difference between telling you I am a woman; or telling you I am a woman raised by Catholic parents with nine siblings, with a master’s degree in business, a practicing animal communicator, convinced chocolate is one of the major food groups, and has a thing for James Bond movie music. Can you appreciate the richness and depth in the second approach?
Astrology Charts
Getting useful information using Astrology usually begins with the calculation of a chart. Simply, it is a picture of the earth and the surrounding constellations and planets at a specified time. Historically astrologers have recognized 12 star constellations which in turn are associated with the 12 Astrological Signs – Aries, Taurus, Gemini, and Cancer and so on. Most often, Astrology charts are drawn as circles and divided into 12 sections that look like pie wedges. Each of the 12 constellations or signs has its place around the perimeter of the circle of the chart. Each of the pie wedges are referred to as Houses each representing an area of life. For example partnerships, home, parents, siblings, work, career, money, friendships, and health as well as other important components are represented.
Charts are drawn according to mathematical calculations factoring in time, and location. Using the calculations along with ancient charts and graphs, an astrology chart for a specific individual birth or event can be drawn. Thank God for computers and modern astrological software. They make it possible for modern day astrologers to cast charts simply and with great precision. Having started out manually casting charts with blank paper, pencil, calculator and reference books, I have great appreciation for those who preceded me and for those software innovators!
Why Astrology?
The History of Astrology can be fascinating. But let’s face it. What interests me more is what can I do with it now? Why should I bother?
Astrology is used very effectively in the hands of competent practitioners as a tool for choosing the perfect date for a wedding, a root canal, or launching a successful business. However, one of its greatest contributions is in demystifying the human psyche. Astrological interpretation provides the basis for building a psychological profile of an individual or event based on the placement of the planets in Astrological signs and in the 12 chart houses at the time of birth. Along with planets, signs, and houses, astrologers carefully consider the interaction and relationship of each planet to the others. Collectively, we can build an insightful picture.
Astrology charts hold the keys to understanding many of life’s conundrums. They can describe how a person is likely to express their feelings. Do they take their cue from the air element and think them over or talk them out? Maybe they get physical like doing housework, mowing the lawn or chopping wood to work out frustration or anger. We can look at Mercury for clues to how a person thinks, learns or shares information. An Astrology chart also holds information about where we feel wounded, alone, alienated or ineffective. Fortunately they also can tell us about our strengths and greatest personal assets.
Parting Thoughts
Like all tools, Astrology is best left in the hands of experienced and trustworthy practitioners. The good news is there are plenty available. More good news: astrology may seem complicated and you’ll get no argument from me. However, learning this ancient tool can be easy especially when approached like peeling an onion – one layer at a time. Every layer can be rewarding and can enrich our lives many times over.
Astrology remains a controversial science, praised and touted by some, debunked by others. However, history demonstrates its universal appeal.
It’s not just you and I who may keep an astrologer on our speed dial. We are in the company of kings, emperors, philosophers, physicians, notable scientists, rock stars, world leaders, entrepreneurs and many others who are open to using the art of Astrology to inform our choices. The key word in that sentence is “inform”. Astrology like many other disciplines and sciences should never become our only point of reference or source of information and guidance.
How to Get a Great Astrological Reading
- Start by finding a great astrologer
- Ask friends, family, or co-workers for referrals
- Often metaphysical and spiritually-oriented websites, stores, and businesses can provide names
- Don’t be afraid to ask for references or ask the potential Astrologer for information about their background and their style of reading
- Be clear about the purpose or intention for the reading. Are you looking for general information? Are you trying to schedule an important event like a wedding? Are you looking for clarity about your love life or maybe you want direction about changing careers or starting your own business
- Most people remember only a small fraction of what they hear. If you are interested in getting a recording of your session, make this arrangement before your appointment
- Assume the posture of a student or “beginner’s mind”. If you have a genuine intention of hearing valuable information or gaining insight, chances are you will
- Don’t leave your rational mind, intuition or common sense at home. Although you are relying on an expert, no one’s opinion should be more important than your own. As many have stated or paraphrased before, “Don’t be so open minded your brain falls out”
- Expect that much of what you hear will confirm what you already know or suspect about yourself, your emotions, your attitudes, beliefs, motivations and personality. That being said, it’s lovely to get confirmation
- Resist the temptation to dismiss information without at least considering it. It’s very typical that clients tell me something they initially did not understand or found difficult to accept, later was proven accurate and true. This includes very positive qualities. It is sometimes hard to hear and accept reflections that are positive about ourselves
- Run away as fast as you can, if a reading even hints at manipulation or a reader attempts to coerce you into a behavior that is uncomfortable. This includes suggestions that you are under a spell, possessed, or in some way under a black cloud or karmic obligation the Astrologer can release in exchange for something – usually money! I’m embarrassed that I even have to mention this one; but unfortunately, in every profession there are those whose integrity or ethics are suspect
Unless your situation or question is very serious, have fun. And even if your situation is serious, try to enjoy yourself when you explore astrology.
About the Author
2026: A New World - The Year of Great Beginnings
Table of Contents
- The Fire Horse (Chinese Astrology)
- Key Planetary Alignments of 2026: The Celestial Forces
- January 2026: Decisions and Closures (Venus Star Point in Capricorn)
- February – March: The Digital Revolution (Eclipses in Aquarius and Virgo)
- The Historic Conjunction: Saturn and Neptune at 0 Degrees in Aries (February 20th)
- Uranus in Gemini: The Revolution of the Mind (Beginning April 26th)
- Jupiter in Leo: The Awakening of the Heart (Beginning June 30th)
- August: The Total Solar Eclipse in Leo (August 12th)
- Venus Retrograde in Scorpio (October-November)
- Preparing for 2026: A Quarterly Guide
- Final Advice: Being Human
This article is presented as an initiation to enter the great portal of 2026, which will be remembered as the year of great beginnings.
2026 is identified as a collective turning point, a quantum leap in human consciousness, and spiritual and technological revolution that will usher in a new generation. It will be a year of radical innovation, inevitable change, and a peace that will make it impossible to go back to the way things were.
The year 2026 is year 1 in numerology (2+0+2+6=1), the year of the seed, of destiny, and of a new karmic cycle.
2025 was the Year of the Snake, a year that bridged and created a threshold between two worlds. The Virgo-Pisces eclipses forced us to shed our skin and release our burdens, stripping humanity of the unnecessary.
The Fire Horse (Chinese Astrology)
In Chinese astrology, 2026 is the Year of The Fire Horse, which officially begins on February 17th. This archetype demands movement, decision, freedom and courage, and favors those who dare to gallop into the unknown.
Key Planetary Alignments of 2026: The Celestial Forces
2026 arrives with unprecedented force, marked by significant lineups.
January 2026: Decisions and Closures (Venus Star Point in Capricorn)
The year begins with the Venus Star Point on January 6 in Capricorn, accompanied by Mars. The conjunction marks the culmination and final resolution process (relationships, partners, and projects) that have been developing since January 2022.
- January is a month of reckoning: what was half built is completed, and what no longer served its purpose dissolves.
- The exact opposition to Jupiter on January 10th amplifies this climax, illuminating what must move forward.
- The New Moon in Capricorn on January 18th opens the door to the first eclipse season and acts as a fruitful void for redesigning the system from the ground up, demanding maturity and autonomy.
February – March: The Digital Revolution (Eclipses in Aquarius and Virgo)
The first eclipse season will set the technological and social tone for 2026. It will be the strongest of the year.
- The Annular Solar Eclipse in Aquarius (February 17th): The first eclipse in this series in over 18 years, it signals the end of technological codependency, the collapse of digital systems, and a collective reflection on social media and AI. This cycle will last until 2028 and will drive advancements in AI, robotics, and astronomical discoveries.
- The Total Lunar Eclipse in Virgo (March 3rd): Echoing the March 2025 eclipse, it reshapes how we work, care for our bodies, and organize our lives. It eliminates outdated routines and ushers in new technologies, automations, and the potential use of robots in service.
- Consequences: Solar events and geomagnetic storms may necessitate upgrades to energy infrastructure, leading to a search for new electricity sources in the face of a possible temporary digital collapse.
The Historic Conjunction: Saturn and Neptune at 0 Degrees in Aries (February 20th)
In the midst of eclipse season, the conjunction of Saturn and Neptune occurs at 0 degrees in Aires. This is the beginning of the zodiac, the earliest spark of creation.
-
Archetypal Meaning:
Saturn represents form, laws, and the tangible. Neptune represents mystery, dissolution, the collective unconscious, and the spiritual.
-
Global Impact:
The conjunction of these planets brings about the dissolution of structures and the birth of new ones. It causes the fall of walls, the collapse of political systems, and a wave of spirituality and consciousness.
-
Historical Examples:
- 1989 (Conjunction in Capricorn): Fall of the Berlin Wall and end of the Soviet bloc.
- 1953 (Conjunction in Libra): Death of Stalin, reconfiguration of the URSS, and the birth of peace movements.
- 1917 (Conjunction in Leo): The Russian Revolution and the irreversible collapse of the Tsarist order.
-
Zero Degrees in Aries:
This conjunction has never before occurred at zero degrees in Aries. This marks a complete reset of the world, where reality becomes malleable and the rules are rewritten. Digital, ideological, and political walls will fall, ushering in an unprecedented spiritual renaissance.
-
The New Leadership:
A leadership based on purpose and vision will emerge, seeking to unite science and spirituality, technology and ethics. Saturn will give form to the invisible, and Neptune will restore soul to the material.
-
Historical Context:
The last time the conjunction was in Aries was around 1522, during the Renaissance, which marked the transition from the Middle Ages to the modern worldview. In 2026, humanity will leave the digital age as we know it and enter a new era of planetary consciousness.
Uranus in Gemini: The Revolution of the Mind (Beginning April 26th)
Uranus enters Gemini on April 26th and will remain there until 2033.
-
Impact:
This accelerates everything: communication, information, technological networks, and breaks down mental paradigms. This combination of the human mind (Gemini) and lightning (Uranus) awakens new connections and ways of learning at an unprecedented pace.
-
Examples (1941-1949):
The last period coincided with World War II, the invention of radar, the first computers, and the initial steps toward the internet.
-
Present Day:
It won’t bring the same wartime context, but it will bring an equivalent revolution on the mental, technological, and communicational levels. New AI, new forms of transportation, and augmented realities are expected.
-
Grand Air Trine:
Uranus in Gemini is amplified by Pluto in Aquarius, creating a grand air trine. This will mobilize an unprecedented energy of innovation, intelligence, and cooperation.
-
Purpose:
To prepare the human mind for the quantum leap and the prelude to a more awakened and free humanity. The need for cleaner air will also become evident.
Jupiter in Leo: The Awakening of the Heart (Beginning June 30th)
Jupiter enters Leo on June 30th.
-
Impact:
It ignites hearts, expands creative desire, and brings a new wave of leadership, expression, and confidence. It will herald new cultural, artistic, and social trends.
-
Examples (2014-2015):
It coincided with the boom of visual social media, the rise of young figures to fame, and the culture of self-affirmation.
-
Current Events:
Jupiter in Leo will act as a spotlight, highlighting who leads, who creates, and who inspires. Changes will be seen in monarchies, along with the rise of younger, more charismatic leaders. Collective romantic drama and new ways of loving will also take center stage.
Fire Moments Highlights:
-
Opposition to Pluto in Aquarius:
It creates tension between the individual (Leo) and the collective (Aquarius), potentially leading to power struggles and major revelations about public figures.
-
Grand Fire Trine (July):
Jupiter in Leo, and Saturn and Neptune in Aries. This is a visionary and creative portal, destined to launch artistic, philosophical, spiritual, or technological movements that will define the coming years.
August: The Total Solar Eclipse in Leo (August 12th)
The second eclipse season begins on July 14th, culminating in a total solar eclipse in Leo on August 12th. Visible in Europe, it will be one of the most significant astronomical events of the decade.
-
Historical Significance:
In ancient times, a total eclipse in Leo (the sign of the king) was interpreted as an omen for the monarch (crisis, overthrow, succession).
-
Current Events:
It marks the end of an era, the fall of a highly influential public figure, and the birth of a new narrative of global leadership.
-
Key Players:
Jupiter in Leo and Pluto in Aquarius create tensions that signal a structural shift in power systems, monarchies, and governments. It suggests the end of a dynasty (symbolic or literal) and the arrival of a new generation of leaders.
-
Karmic Closure (August 28th):
The last eclipse of the year is a partial lunar eclipse, which acts as the emotional, energetic, and karmic closure of everything experienced since 2024. It marks the final resolution of breakups, moves, career transformations, or psychological crises that began in the fall of 2024 and 2025.
Venus Retrograde in Scorpio (October-November)
Venus retrograde in Scorpio is one of the most powerful events of the last quarter.
-
4-Year Cycle:
This transition culminates an emotional and financial story that began at the Venus Star Point in October 2022.
-
Key Dates:
The exact retrograde phase is from October 3 to November 14, 2026. Venus and Mercury will be retrograde at the same time, similar to March 2025.
-
Intensity in Scorpio:
Scorpio rules shared money, secrets, and emotional power. You will see the collapse of unsustainable relationships, revelations that shatter old dynamics, and profound reconciliations. Venus in Scorpio cleanses thoroughly and leaves nothing hidden.
-
Rebirth:
As the old falls away, strong and intense bonds will emerge, bringing you closer to your destiny. The process culminates around December 12th, leaving a sense of emotional, financial, and spiritual rebirth.
Preparing for 2026: A Quarterly Guide
First Quarter: Self-Knowledge and Mind (January-March)
-
Focus:
Self-Knowledge and Self-Analysis.
-
Energy:
The Saturn-Neptune conjunction in Aries and the eclipse in Aquarius enhance the “I Am” and mental capacities.
-
Reccomendations:
- Self-affirmation meditations and mental reprogramming.
- Check out Rewired with Joe Dispenza or Self-Love Yoga with Koya Webb.
- Tools such as astrology or family trees to explore life patterns.
- Get started with Astrology 101 on Gaia.
- Self-affirmation meditations and mental reprogramming.
Second Quarter: Awareness and Abilities (April-June)
-
Focus:
Awakening the mind and abilities.
-
Energy:
Uranus’s entry into Gemini activates air energy and the upper chakras.
-
Recommendations:
- Channeling practices.
- Dive into Channeling: A Bridge to the Beyond.
- Awakening the pineal gland, telepathy, or telekinesis.
- Watch Who We Are about transcending the physical.
- Channeling practices.
Third Quarter: Love and Compassion (July-September)
-
Focus
Cultivating love, compassion and reconnecting with relationships that have become stagnant.
-
Energy:
Jupiter’s entry into Leo and the shift of the nodal axis to Leo-Aquarius.
-
Recommendations:
- Use of high-vibration stones to activate energy centers.
- Watch Mystery Teachings with Sarah Elkhaldy.
- Yoga to open the chest and support the expansion of the heart.
- Practice Open Heart with Tiffany Bush.
- Use of high-vibration stones to activate energy centers.
Fourth Quarter: Detachment and Depth (October-December)
-
Focus:
Invest in wisdom that reveals the shadow and the path to enlightenment.
-
Energy:
Venus retrograde in Scorpio.
-
Recommendations:
- Practices of conscious detachment and working with symbolic death and impermanence.
- Listen to The Art of Letting Go meditation series.
- Drawing on the energy of Scorpio’s water element to work with emotions and memories.
- Watch the popular documentary Heal.
- Feeling and practicing hypersensitivity.
- Watch Sensitive is the New Strong from Gaia’s Emersion Conference.
- Practices of conscious detachment and working with symbolic death and impermanence.
Final Advice: Being Human
2026 will test the “robots” and reward the “human” who creates with awareness. The advice is to be loving, compassionate, and act with kindness and awareness that others help us see parts of ourselves that we cannot see alone.
