Astrology is a traditional system of interpreting the positions and movements of celestial bodies in relation to human life and events. It has been practiced in different forms for thousands of years and continues to be popular around the world.
Today, many people explore astrology to learn about zodiac signs, personality themes, relationships, birth charts, and traditional interpretations of planetary positions.
But what exactly is astrology, and how does it work?
What Does Astrology Mean?
The word astrology comes from ancient Greek roots associated with the study of stars. In traditional astrology, the positions of the Sun, Moon, planets, and other celestial points are interpreted using established astrological systems.
Astrology traditionally considers relationships between celestial bodies and different areas of human experience.
Unlike astronomy, which is a scientific discipline concerned with studying celestial objects and the universe, astrology is generally regarded as a belief system or interpretive tradition rather than a science.
The Zodiac
One of the most familiar parts of Western astrology is the zodiac.
The zodiac is traditionally divided into twelve signs:
- Aries
- Taurus
- Gemini
- Cancer
- Leo
- Virgo
- Libra
- Scorpio
- Sagittarius
- Capricorn
- Aquarius
- Pisces
Each sign is traditionally associated with particular characteristics, an element, a modality, and one or more ruling planets.
You can explore all twelve signs in the AstroWibe Zodiac Signs section.
The Sun, Moon, and Planets
Astrology gives symbolic meanings to the Sun, Moon, and planets.
For example, the Sun is traditionally associated with identity and self-expression, while the Moon is associated with emotions and instincts.
Other planets are also given traditional meanings.
These interpretations are then combined according to their positions in a birth chart.
What Is a Birth Chart?
A birth chart, also called a natal chart, is an astrological chart created using a person’s birth information.
Traditionally, a birth chart uses:
- Date of birth
- Exact or approximate birth time
- Birthplace
The chart represents the positions of celestial bodies at the time and location of birth.
Astrologers traditionally interpret these positions to explore different themes associated with personality, relationships, goals, and life experiences.
What Are the 12 Houses?
A birth chart is traditionally divided into twelve houses.
Each house is associated with a different area of life.
For example, the first house is traditionally associated with identity and appearance, while the seventh house is associated with partnerships and relationships.
The meaning of a planet can therefore be interpreted differently depending on the house in which it appears.
What Are Astrology Aspects?
Astrology also considers the angular relationships between planets.
These relationships are called aspects.
Common aspects include:
- Conjunction
- Sextile
- Square
- Trine
- Opposition
Astrologers traditionally interpret these relationships as part of a larger birth-chart interpretation.
Different Astrology Traditions
Astrology is not a single uniform system.
Different traditions include:
- Western astrology
- Vedic astrology
- Hellenistic astrology
- Chinese astrology
- Medieval astrology
- Modern psychological astrology
Each system can use different methods, terminology, calculations, and interpretations.
AstroWibe primarily focuses on accessible information about Western astrology unless an article specifically identifies another tradition.
Why Do People Explore Astrology?
People explore astrology for many different reasons.
Some people enjoy reading horoscopes for entertainment. Others are interested in symbolism, personality descriptions, relationships, or learning about traditional astrological systems.
Astrology can also be explored as part of cultural and historical traditions.
Is Astrology Scientific?
Astrology is generally not considered a science by the scientific community.
Astronomy and astrology are different fields. Astronomy uses scientific methods to study celestial objects and physical processes, while astrology interprets celestial positions through traditional symbolic systems.
Therefore, astrology-based interpretations should not be treated as scientifically established facts.
Final Thoughts
Astrology is a broad tradition involving zodiac signs, planets, houses, aspects, and birth charts.
Whether you explore astrology casually or want to learn its traditional systems in greater depth, understanding the basic concepts is a useful starting point.
Explore the AstroWibe Zodiac Signs, Birth Chart, and Astrology Tools sections to learn more.
Important: Astrology content on AstroWibe is provided for general informational and entertainment purposes and should not be considered scientific, medical, legal, financial, or other professional advice.