Origins and Development Processes of Western Astrology - Focusing on mythology and natural philosophy

Western astrology, rooted in ancient myths and natural philosophy, is a unique system that interprets human life and destiny based on the movement of celestial bodies. In Mesopotamian civilization, Sumerian myths associated specific deities with celestial bodies, providing the original symbols for astrology. The Babylonian epic “Enuma Elish” demonstrated the connection between celestial motions and human fate, while the Egyptian sun god “Ra” symbolized the ecliptic and regeneration. In Greek mythology, the twelve Olympian gods were linked to specific planets, contributing to astrological interpretations. Ancient Greek natural philosophers established the theoretical foundation of astrology through the concept of the four elements. Empedocles, Plato, and Aristotle asserted that water, fire, air, and earth composed the universe. These elemental attributes later became the basis for categorizing the zodiac signs in astrology. Ptolemy systematized astrology by explaining celestial movements and Earth’s changes based on this framework. Thus, astrology has evolved by combining mythological symbols and philosophical inquiry, continuing to offer insights into human life and destiny today.