TROPICAL ASTROLOGY Meaning and
Definition
-
Tropical astrology is a system of astrology that is primarily based on the position of the Sun at the time of an individual's birth. It is one of the most commonly used astrological systems in the Western world. The term "tropical" refers to the fact that this system is based on the tropical zodiac, which divides the year into twelve equal parts based on the Earth's relationship to the Sun.
In tropical astrology, the zodiac is divided into twelve signs, each representing approximately 30 degrees of celestial longitude. The Sun's position in one of these signs at the time of a person's birth is believed to have a significant influence on their personality traits, behaviors, and life experiences. The tropical zodiac is also used to determine the positions of other celestial bodies, known as planets, and to interpret the significance of their positions in relation to a person's birth chart.
Unlike sidereal astrology, which is based on the position of the stars, tropical astrology does not take into account the precession of the equinoxes, the gradual westward shift of the Earth's axis over time. As a result, the tropical zodiac does not correspond directly to the current position of the constellations in the night sky. This distinction can lead to slight variations between tropical astrology and other astrological systems, such as Vedic astrology.
Overall, tropical astrology focuses on the Sun's position within the zodiac and its influences on an individual's life, making it a widely used system for personal horoscope interpretations and astrological consultations.
Etymology of TROPICAL ASTROLOGY
The word "tropical" in "tropical astrology" derives from the Greek word "tropikos", which means "turning" or "to turn". It is associated with the tropics of the Earth, specifically the two latitudes where the Sun can be directly overhead at least once a year. These latitudes are called the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn.
"Astrology", on the other hand, originates from the Latin term "astrologia", which stems from the Greek words "astron" (star) and "logia" (the study of). Astrology is the ancient practice of correlating celestial positions and movements with events and characteristics on Earth, particularly human affairs and personality traits.
