Babylonian astrology refers to the ancient system of divination and interpretation of celestial events developed and practiced by the ancient Babylonians. The Babylonians, who inhabited Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq) during the 1st and 2nd millennia BCE, were among the earliest civilizations to scrutinize the movements of celestial bodies in relation to human affairs.
Babylonian astrology was heavily influenced by the belief that the positions and motions of celestial bodies, including the sun, moon, planets, and stars, held significant meanings and could impact the lives and destinies of individuals and nations. It was believed that by observing and recording these celestial events over time, one could accurately predict future events and gain insights into the divine will.
Central to Babylonian astrology was the creation of horoscopic charts or "astrological birth charts" that mapped the positions of celestial bodies at the exact time of an individual's birth. The interpretation of these birth charts involved analyzing the positions, aspects, and relationships between the planets and stars to gain insights into the person's personality traits, potential challenges, and future prospects.
Additionally, Babylonian astrology also incorporated the study of celestial omens, which involved interpreting various natural phenomena or occurrences, such as the appearance of comets, eclipses, or unusual weather patterns, as signs from the gods about the future. These omens were believed to provide guidance and warnings to individuals and rulers alike.
Although Babylonian astrology has long been superseded by more modern astrological systems, it served as a foundational pillar for later astrological practices in ancient Greece, Egypt, and Rome, and its influence can still be seen in contemporary astrology.
