Horoscope

Renaissance astrologer casting a horoscope

A term originating from ancient Greece which combines the words 'hora' (hour, time) and 'scopein' (watch, observe). So, horoscope literally means the "observer of the hour" and is sometimes translated as the "observation of time".

The term horoscope usually refers to the graphical portrayal of the natal chart, i.e. the graphical portrayal of the planetary positions at the time of birth or the beginning of any particular process as viewed from the location at which it occurs. The sign that rises on the Eastern horizon at this point in time, the Ascendant, indicates the hour, whereas the planets generally move only little during the course of a day, except for the Moon which nevertheless remains a far less accurate indicator of time than the Ascendant.

The horoscope is the basis for astrological interpretation. It is erected on the basis of astronomical calculations, if possible using a time accurate to within a minute. The collected data are then plotted on a circular diagram, though in former times astrologers used a rectagonal diagram.

In a broader sense, the term horoscope also implies the interpretation of astrological symbols.

Up until ancient times, horoscopes were usually only erected for rulers, high ranking priests or for whole communities. Individual horoscopes first became more common among wealthy Romans. Today anyone who is interested can have their natal chart erected and interpreted.

Sun Sign Columns

Today the most common usage for the term horoscope is to refer to Sun-sign astrology columns where short predictions are given for each of the twelve signs of the zodiac.

This form of astrology started in 1930 to become popularized through newspaper columns. R.H. Naylor's column on 24th August 1930 at 6.00am in London was the first to appear.

Caroll Righter's advices in 1971

See also

• Chart
• History of Astrology
• Interpretation
• Media
• Symbolism

Weblinks

• Sun Sign Astrology - The Elephant in the Room ()

Sun Sign horoscope columnist Jessica Adams tells from her work. Her summary: "Kim Farnell compares Sun Sign columns to first aid and natal chart work to heart surgery."