The zodiac is an imaginary zone of the heavens paralleling the ecliptic, about sixteen degrees in width. It is divided into twelve signs, each of which is thirty degrees in extent. Each of the signs is marked by a constellation, and the symbolical figures associated with the signs are supposedly traceable in the star groupings which form the corresponding constellation. In many instances, however, there is little resemblance between the two.
The origin of the zodiac is one of the unsolved mysteries of ancient times. A variety of explanations has been offered, but none has the stamp of general approval or acceptance. The popular belief that the signs of the zodiac were delineated by ancient shepherds guarding their flocks at night is untenable. The system did not originate among untutored herdsmen, but bears witness to a high degree of intellectual organization. Perhaps the legend of the shepherds has reference to the myths of the shepherd kings, the priest-initiate-rulers of the world of long ago. The selection of certain animals and figures to represent the star groupings gives us a clue to the origin of the system. In the classical zodiac that we know, all the star symbols pertain to a way of life which developed in Mesopotamia, North Africa, and south-eastern Europe. Had the zodiac its beginning in Asia the symbolism would have been different. In fact, Eastern zodiacs to this day include several forms peculiar to Eastern regions.
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The origin of the zodiac is one of the unsolved mysteries of ancient times. A variety of explanations has been offered, but none has the stamp of general approval or acceptance. The popular belief that the signs of the zodiac were delineated by ancient shepherds guarding their flocks at night is untenable. The system did not originate among untutored herdsmen, but bears witness to a high degree of intellectual organization. Perhaps the legend of the shepherds has reference to the myths of the shepherd kings, the priest-initiate-rulers of the world of long ago. The selection of certain animals and figures to represent the star groupings gives us a clue to the origin of the system. In the classical zodiac that we know, all the star symbols pertain to a way of life which developed in Mesopotamia, North Africa, and south-eastern Europe. Had the zodiac its beginning in Asia the symbolism would have been different. In fact, Eastern zodiacs to this day include several forms peculiar to Eastern regions.
Subscribe to the New PRS Journal to read on...
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