Ever since the first civilizations were established; humans have been drawn to astrology. Ancient Egyptians used it to predict the future, pagans used it to forge a connection to their gods, and the human fascination with it is still just as strong today. But, is there another source with which we can measure our spiritual fate: the Bible?
When it comes to signs, the Bible is incredibly scarce. The only mention of astrological signs shows up briefly in Job 38:32
, when the Lord speaks to Job and appears to describe the zodiac. It’s possible that the Bible’s authors actually knew about the zodiac—and if they did, why didn’t they embrace it?
Experts believe that the biblical authors were knowledgeable about astrologic practices and customs, but they were forbidden to follow them. While the Bible is shrouded in mystery, Deuteronomy 18:10-14
prohibits divination, sorcery, spirit control, and the practice of astrology, suggesting that it may have been a popular pastime.
So, why didn’t the authors of the Bible delve any deeper into astrology? It’s thought that the lack of in-depth discussion regarding this topic in the Bible was a strategic move to distance themselves from what was then a pagan practice. It’s more likely that the authors preferred to promote faith and spirituality, rather than dabbling in the unknown.
Experts believe that although the zodiac was widely practiced in biblical times, and the authors of the Bible had a working knowledge of astrology, the Bible ultimately condemns it. Thus, the authors of scripture chose to distance themselves and their followers from astrology and focus on their unwavering beliefs and faith.
A key element of the Bible is faith’s journey and the Lord’s power. The Bible emphasizes the importance of moral behavior, whereas astrology is concerned with predictions and connecting with the gods. Thus, the two worlds are vastly different. The Bible rarely mentions horoscopes because it focuses on faith, rather than the science and art of predicting the future.
The Bible teaches the importance of trusting in the Lord rather than in earthly beings or astrological knowledge, urging followers to live holy, Christian-centered lives. This raises the question: is there ever a place for astrology in the modern life of a believer?
Is Astrology Compatible With Christianity?
While many believers are content to stay away from the more controversial elements of participating in astrology. Still, some continue to be fascinated by the zodiac and its messages—and the debate over whether or not astrology is compatible with the Christian faith still rages on.
It’s important to remember that the Bible teaches us to pursue what is good by relying on the wisdom of scripture, not by interpreting the stars. As mentioned before, the Bible forbids practicing astrology, meaning that it is not in line with the teachings of the Bible.
However, many believers follow their own paths when it comes to astrology—some believe that it can be helpful on occasion, while others believe it can hypnotize people and leads them away from the path of righteousness.
But a growing segment of believers see horoscopes as simply another form of entertainment, something that can be helpful in highlighting the positive and negative traits in our personalities.
Ultimately, it remains up to the individual to decide whether or not astrology and the Bible can work together harmoniously.
What Does The Bible Say About Lions?
The Bible is filled with references to lions, from the fierce King of Beasts that guards entrances to ancient cities to the lion of Judah, Jesus Christ himself.
In the Torah, the lion symbolizes strength and power, as seen in “Judah is a lion’s cub; from the prey, my son, you have gone up. He stooped down; he crouched like a lion and like a lioness—who dares rouse him?”
This verse is speaking of a lion cub, or cub of Judah, referring to the Jewish people, being fierce and unafraid. And in “A lion has gone up from his thicket, and a destroyer of nations has set out; he has gone out from his place to make your land a waste. Your cities will be ruins without inhabitant.”
the lion represents destruction, not just strength.
In the New Testament, the lion is connected to Jesus, often described as the Lion of Judah. He is referred to as the mighty Lion in “And one of the elders said to me, “Weep no more; behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has conquered, so that he can open the scroll and its seven seals.”
Jesus is described as the Lion of Judah, conquering death and rising again, victorious.
The lion is also used as a symbol of God’s protection of His people, as seen in “You will tread on the lion and the adder; the young lion and the serpent you will trample underfoot”
> and in “The young lions roar for their prey, seeking their food from God”
.
Do Horoscopes Have Any Place In Christianity?
Most Christians are wary of the idea of horoscopes, and it’s not difficult to understand why. After all, predictions and divination are strictly forbidden in the Bible. So many wonder if there is any place for astrology or horoscopes in Christianity.
The truth is, it’s up to the individual, and it is possible to learn cosmic wisdom without falling into superstition or prophecy. Many modern Christians take part in the enjoyable aspects of astrology while staying clear of any kind of spiritual syncretism. They may glean insights from the root meanings of their sign, rather than relying on predictions or trying to manipulate the future.
It is possible to be an astrology enthusiast and a Christian—as long as one does not place astrology above faith. If one is to adhere to Christian values, it’s important to remember that the Bible warns against trying to comprehend the future and instead encourages faith in the Lord.
Ultimately, the decision rests in the hands of the individual. As long as believers stay true to their faith and keep their focus on their beliefs and values, they can incorporate astrology into their lives, albeit in a more mindful and cautious way.
What Are Some Other Symbols In The Bible?
The Bible is a rich source of symbolism, the use of which can have a powerful effect on conveying a spiritual meaning. The majesty of lions, for example, is used as a metaphor for faith and power. But there are many other symbols used in scripture, all of which are just as important in conveying the Bible’s messages.
One of the most common symbols in the Bible is water. It usually represents cleansing, rebirth, and spiritual salvation. In “Jesus answered, ‘Very truly I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless they are born of water and the Spirit.’”
water represents the process of spiritual cleansing in which believers must attain to enter the kingdom of God.
Another popular symbol in the Bible is light. Light typically signifies holiness, truth, and God’s guidance, as seen in “Send out Your light and Your truth, let them guide me; let them bring me to Your holy mountain, to the place where You dwell.”
Light is a symbol of spiritual insight, and it appears many times in the Bible, often as a symbol of God’s presence.
Other symbols in the Bible include bread, which typically represents the Eucharist, and fire, which often symbolizes God’s judgment or His protective presence. Then there’s gold and silver, which signify purity and strength, and oil, which stands for the Holy Spirit. What’s more, the dove is a symbol of the Holy Spirit, the lamb is an image of Christ, and the serpent is a representation of evil.
Conclusion
The Bible touches on astrology only briefly, and it is easy to understand why. The Bible promotes faith in the Lord, rather than predicting the future or connecting with the gods. Despite this, many believers explore the field of astrology in search of spiritual insight, and for some, it can be a benign way to better understand their own personality and shortcomings.
Ultimately, it is up to the individual to decide on how to navigate their own spiritual journey, and whether or not astrology is right for them.
