How is Astrology Connected to the Occult?

Astrology and the occult have a long history together going back centuries and full of hidden knowledge. Since ancient times, people have seen the movements of stars and planets as powerful forces that shape our lives and guide our spiritual journeys.

In the occult world, astrology is a strong tool for understanding the hidden energies of the universe. By studying astrological charts and where planets are, occultists try to use the stars' power in their rituals and magic. Each planet has its own meanings and special powers, which affect everything from fortune-telling to casting spells.

By connecting with the universe's natural rhythms, occult practitioners tap into the old wisdom hidden in the stars. They get insights and guidance to deal with life's challenges and explore the secrets of unseen worlds.

What Is Astrology and How Is It Defined in the Occult Context?

Astrology, often described as a celestial language of cosmic influence, holds a pivotal position within the occult world, joining together cosmic energies with earthly happenings. In occult practices, astrology goes beyond simple horoscope readings; it becomes a profound instrument for divination and comprehending the interconnectedness of the cosmos. Defined as the study of celestial bodies' positions and their impact on human affairs, astrology takes on deeper meaning within the occult, exploring the mystical links between planetary motions and the human mind.

Astrology's origins are deeply intertwined with ancient occult traditions, where the celestial bodies were revered as divine entities capable of shaping destinies and influencing worldly events. Within occult traditions, astrological charts act as blueprints of cosmic energies, guiding practitioners in interpreting cosmic messages and uncovering hidden truths about individuals and the universe.

The occult viewpoint on astrology bestows upon it profound significance, regarding planetary alignments as energetic imprints that shape human consciousness and actions. By grasping these celestial influences, occultists aim to attune themselves with cosmic rhythms, harnessing the power of the stars to navigate life's enigmas and unveil the mysteries of existence.

How Has Astrology Been Historically Connected to the Occult?

Throughout history, astrology has been closely intertwined with the occult, serving as a cornerstone of mystical pursuits and esoteric customs. In 16th-century Europe, the term "occult sciences" encompassed astrology alongside alchemy and natural magic, emphasising astrology's central position within the occult domain. Fundamentally, astrology engages in a systematic exploration of nature and its processes, investigating theoretical frameworks that rely on beliefs in hidden qualities, virtues, or forces.

Historical figures like John Dee, the esteemed court astronomer and advisor to Queen Elizabeth I, exemplify the profound link between astrology and the occult. Dee, a dedicated occultist, integrated astrology into his mystical endeavours, using celestial alignments to glean insights and unlock hidden wisdom. His significant contributions to both astrology and the occult highlight the substantial influence of celestial knowledge on esoteric traditions.

Through its historical associations with the occult, astrology has served as a potent instrument for comprehending the mysteries of the cosmos and deciphering the complexities of human existence. By delving into astrological principles and practices, occultists strive to unravel the universe's secrets and tap into the cosmic energies that shape our fates.

What Role Does Astrology Play in Occult Rituals and Magick?

Astrology holds a central position in occult rituals and magic, acting as a guiding principle in harnessing cosmic energies and aligning with celestial influences. Within occult practices, astrological charts serve as valuable tools for determining opportune moments for rituals and spellcasting, leveraging planetary alignments to amplify intentions and bring about desired results.

For instance, during a full moon ritual, practitioners may utilise the heightened lunar energy to amplify intentions for manifestation or release. Similarly, the concept of planetary hours, based on astrological principles, allows practitioners to optimise the effectiveness of spells and rituals by aligning them with specific planetary energies. For example, a love spell might be performed during the hour of Venus to enhance its potency and effectiveness. Additionally, astrological talismans and sigils are charged with particular planetary energies to aid in protection, manifestation, or spiritual development.

Through the integration of astrology into occult rituals and magic, practitioners tap into the vast reservoir of cosmic forces to facilitate personal growth, spiritual evolution, and the manifestation of their desires.

How Do Occultists Interpret Astrological Charts?

Astrological charts serve as powerful instruments for divination within occult practices, providing glimpses into cosmic influences and assisting practitioners in deciphering the underlying energies shaping the universe.

Occultists interpret astrological charts through diverse perspectives, delving into the symbolic language of planetary positions, aspects, and transits to unveil concealed truths and access spiritual wisdom. Each aspect of the chart holds significance, from the alignment of celestial bodies in the zodiac signs to the angles they form with one another. Through meticulous examination, occultists discern patterns and correlations between cosmic alignments and terrestrial occurrences, shedding light on the interconnectedness of the cosmos and earthly events.

Astrological charts are perceived as blueprints of fate, unveiling the soul's voyage through time and space and offering guidance on navigating life's trials and triumphs. By tapping into the wisdom of the stars, occultists harness astrology's power to gain profound insights into life's mysteries and to embolden themselves on their spiritual journey.

Are There Specific Astrological Systems Used in the Occult?

In the occult world, people use different astrological systems to understand how the universe affects us.

One famous system is traditional Western astrology. It gives meaning to where planets are in the zodiac and how they relate to each other. Another one is Hellenistic astrology, which comes from ancient Greek ideas. It talks a lot about which planets rule over which signs and how important they are in charts.

There's also Vedic astrology, from India, which uses a different zodiac and looks at things like karma and reincarnation.

Some people in the occult also look at esoteric astrology. This is more about the spiritual side and understanding our soul's journey through symbols and stories in astrology.

By using these different astrological systems, people in the occult learn more about how the universe works and how it affects us. They hope to uncover the big questions about life and get in tune with the bigger picture.

What Is the Role of Planetary Magick in the Occult?

Planetary magick is a powerful part of occult practice that taps into the special energies of celestial bodies to make intentions real and create change. Each planet has its own qualities and meanings, giving practitioners special powers they can use in rituals and spells.

For instance, someone might call on the strong energy of Mars for bravery and protection, or use the calming vibes of the Moon for better instincts and healing emotions. Planetary hours, based on astrology, help make rituals even more effective by matching them with the right planet's energy for what the practitioner wants. Symbols of planets on talismans and sigils act as strong tools to channel these energies and make things happen.

Through planetary magick, people in the occult aim to connect with the big forces of the universe, tapping into the ancient wisdom hidden in the stars to make themselves stronger and change their lives for the better.

How Do Occultists Use Astrology for Timing Rituals and Spells?

Occultists use astrology as a powerful tool for timing rituals and spells, tapping into the cosmic energies of planets aligning to boost their intentions and make things happen. By matching rituals and spells with the right astrological setups, practitioners make their magical work stronger and more effective.

For example, someone wanting more abundance might do a spell for prosperity during a waxing moon, when lunar energy is strongest and good for growth. Likewise, rituals to get rid of bad vibes or let go of things might be done during a waning moon phase, when lunar energy is shrinking and helps dissolve negativity.

Practitioners also use planetary hours, figured out from astrology, to make their rituals even better. Each hour is linked to a planet and its energies, so they can customise their magic to fit with the planets that help their goals the most.

By using astrology smartly, occultists time their rituals and spells with the universe's natural rhythms. They tap into the stars' power to make their dreams real and make big changes in their lives.

What Are Common Misunderstandings About Astrology in the Occult?

There are some common misunderstandings about astrology in the occult world, often because people simplify or misunderstand its ideas and practices.

One big mistake is thinking astrology only tells the future, when really it's a complex system studying cosmic energies and how they affect people. Some might wrongly believe astrology says everything is predetermined, meaning people's lives are set by their birth charts. But people in the occult know astrology just gives hints about possibilities and influences. People still have free will to shape their own lives.

Another wrong idea is thinking astrology is just superstition or fake science. Actually, it comes from ancient wisdom and modern psychology, giving useful insights into how people think and behave.

By getting rid of these misunderstandings and looking at astrology in the bigger picture of the occult, practitioners can understand its real meaning and use it to grow spiritually and feel more empowered.

How Is Astrology Represented in Occult Literature and Art?

Astrology pops up a lot in occult books and art, often seen as a strong tool for understanding and spiritual journeys. In literature, occult writers like Aleister Crowley and Dion Fortune bring in astrological symbols to explain mystical ideas. They use things like planet meanings to show hidden truths and how to do special practices. For example, Crowley's "The Book of Thoth" talks about how Tarot cards link with astrology, and Fortune's books look at how astrology affects magic and psychic powers. Astrology also shows up a bunch in occult stories, like H.P. Lovecraft's spooky tales mixing in cosmic themes.

Astrological symbols often show up in occult art, like paintings and sculptures. Renaissance artists such as Albrecht Dürer and Hieronymus Bosch used these symbols in their work, giving them a deep meaning and making them feel mysterious. Modern occult artists like Austin Osman Spare and Rosaleen Norton also used astrology as inspiration, making artworks that dive into the big questions about our minds and the universe.

In books and art, astrology is shown as a door to the big mysteries of the cosmos, inviting people to think about hidden parts of our minds and the universe.

Have a read of our article 'What is the occult?' for a top-level overview of the occult.