The origins of the science of astrology are obscured by time but without doubt all the ancient records from various civilizations refer to it as a sacred science, and, particularly in past times, it was studied alongside what was then regarded as its twin science: astronomy.

Astrology probably evolved from primitive times when man first related the events of his life to a power stronger than himself. At the mercy of unknown elements affecting human life, he no doubt tried to find a rational solution by seeking to link his destiny with the heavenly bodies that were displayed in the night skies.

However, from the earliest records to which we have access, from the time of the earliest known civilizations, astrology was already established as a sophisticated system of knowledge. It identified the planets, symbolically divided the sky into zodiacal signs and what is more important, had some knowledge beyond the forms of celestial bodies as to the interpretation of their invisible influences upon the human psyche and life on our earth.

Every ancient civilization - Egyptian, Chaldean, Sumerian, Chinese to name a few, had their own astrological systems. And nearly all the ancient scriptures have interesting references to astrology. It increases our respect for this knowledge to know just how deeply it has been a part of human culture. Some claim that the first great astrologers mentioned in history are Petosiris and Necepso, believed to have lived in the reign of Rameses II of Egypt. Others such as the classical writer Simplicius in the sixth century AD says that he always heard that the Egyptians had kept astronomical observations and records for a period of 63,000 years. Diogenes Laertius dated Egyptians to 48,863 years before Alexander the Great. Martianus Capella corroborates this by telling that the Egyptians had secretly studied Astronomy for over 40,000 years before they imparted their knowledge to the world. Chinese knowledge of astronomy dates back to 18,000 years ago. The text Vedanga Jyotisha in Indian Vedic literature shows Astrology to have been known in times which pre-date known history.

There is a great deal of evidence to support that astrology and astronomy were both integral to the culture of people both east and west. Modern archaeologists confirm that many relics continue to come be found, that directly refer to both astronomy and astrology in past ages.

Obviously beyond studying the evidence that is available, we can only speculate as to the real time of the birth of Astrology but can feel very certain of its validity as a science and its serious application. In earlier times this would have been the province and responsibility of the priesthood who used it in the temples for healing; scholars within all cultures studied and assisted in advancing the science and it was certainly used by rulers in promoting the welfare of their country and in planning strategies for defence and campaigns to extend their power.

Although it is well known that rulers over the last centuries in the western world have employed astrologers to assist in determining 'auspicious' dates for events of importance, from Queen Elizabeth I to Napoleon and even some of our present day rulers, astrology now provides knowledge which is accessible to all.

There are many practical applications of both serious and more frivolous purposes which are presently being explored by enterprising people, and these include gardening, horseracing, weather prediction, animal breeding and many others.

Its most popular application in modern times however, has been to help the individual in self- analysis. As well, professional psychologists are beginning to observe the benefits in helping them understand the different types of personality and behaviour. This is perhaps the area most deserving of the old association as a 'sacred' science which relates the great natural forces outside our world to the activities and interests of humanity on our own planet.

Michael Russell
Your Independent guide to Astrology