Quick Look
- A fascinating exploration of the development of astrology and the use of personal horoscopes in human history
- Introduces an exciting new element for astrology, the death chart or the 'spirit birth' chart
- This new chart has the potential to greatly affect the practice of astrology
Traces the development of astrology in human history, and introduces a wholly new element, the death chart or 'spirit birth' chart.
Description
People have been studying the effect of the stars on worldly events for over five thousand years, that is, since the time of ancient Egypt and Chaldea in Mesopotamia. However, the first horoscope for an individual, with place and time of birth, was recorded in 70 BC in Greece.
Leo de la Houssaye, an experienced astronomer and astrologer, traces the development of astrology in human history, looking particularly at how human consciousness has changed in relation to star wisdom. He marvels at how quickly the ancient Greeks developed a system of interpretation for the horoscope: already by AD 150 , the basic elements were established which are still used today.
In the second part of the book, the author introduces a new element for astrology, the death chart, or the 'spirit birth' chart. Whereas a standard birth chart is an image of what a person brings into the start of their life, a spirit birth chart is an image of the fruits of the life they have lived. De la Houssaye argues that this new chart is important for understanding personal spiritual biographies, and could have a significant impact on the practice of astrology.
Reviews
'For anyone searching for a comprehensive history of star knowledge and wisdom, this book should satisfy.
'The book's strength lies in its historical overview and indications of a future direction for astrological studies.'
-- Margaret Jones, New View
'An original book covering the history of astrology in different cultures down the ages and based on a great deal of reading. The author is an Anthroposophist and introduces what for me was a new concept of the spiritual birth chart corresponding to the time of death.
'It is a fascinating thought that our lives might nourish the cosmos.'
--David Lorimer, Network Review
'This is a fascinating book -- well written and therefore approachable despite the complexity of the subjects of astronomy and astrology.
'Although some of what the author tells us sounds unfamiliar and oerhaps surreal, I found this book a real "page-turner". Whether you accept the author's theories or not, this is an enjoyable and well-researched book, and the anthroposophical view that the cosmos is a living spiritual organism that requires nourishment from all humankind is one that would encourage us all to live in a less self-absorbed way.'
--Spirit of Oneness
Author
Leo de la Houssaye (1928-2009) grew up in the Hague, Netherlands. He had a strong connection with the stars since he was a child. He worked for the Dutch Institute for Organizational Development in Zeist for thirty years, and lectured widely on social and personal development, astronomy and astrology.
