10 Ways Mythology Influences Modern Astrology

Understanding the significant connection between mythology and modern astrology calls for an in-depth analysis of the relationship they both share.

Astrology, as a popular component of modern culture, is greatly influenced by mythology, leading to a rich, layered comprehension of celestial bodies and their significance in our lives.

The birth of astrology is deeply rooted in various ancient cultures, most notably, their mythologies.

The association between these mythological tales and modern interpretations of the cosmos is a fascinating topic of discussion.

It is essential, however, to delve into how this ancient lore and symbolism continue to pervade the astrological narrative.

In this exploration, we aim to bring forward the profound impact of mythology on the practice and understanding of contemporary astrology.

Ways Mythology Influences Modern Astrology

1. Zodiac signs from Greek/Roman mythological figures

The star individuals’ affiliations with astrological signs have profound roots in the Greek and Roman mythologies.

These ancient civilizations projected their stories and beliefs onto the stars, leading to the creation of the zodiac.

The mysteries of the cosmos were often explained through mythical tales, with each astrological sign having its own divine counterpart.

The stories of these gods and heroes reflected cultural values and human traits, which were then assigned to the distinct star clusters.

People born under certain star signs were believed to inherit the traits and characteristics of their respective gods or heroes.

Aries, for example, was associated with Mars, the Roman God of War.

This concept denotes that Aries is aggressive, courageous, and pioneering, much like Mars in the mythological narratives.

Cancer, another zodiac sign, is represented by the Cancer the Crab, which played a critical role in the twelve labors of Hercules – a famous Greek Hero.

This myth has informed the understanding of Cancer as a resilient and loyal sign that values family and home, symbolic of the incorruptible persistence of the Cancer the Crab.

Similarly, the Greek story of the maiden Persephone is associated with the astrological sign Virgo.

Her story of purity and dedication to service, mirrored in the characteristics of Virgos, who are often described as meticulous, reliable, and practical.

The balance-loving Libra is symbolized by Astraea, the last immortal to live among humans, who transformed into the constellation Libra during the Age of Justice and Innocence.

Just as Sagittarius is linked to Chiron, a centaur known for his wisdom and teaching abilities, people born under this sign are often seen as idealist, adventurous, and enthusiastic.

The symbolic association of zodiac signs to ancient gods, creatures, and heroes offers a lens through which to interpret and understand the astrological identities.

Interestingly, these mythological narratives have provided a cultural and historical underpinning to the modern astrological profession that often goes unnoticed.

Thus, establishing an important link between mythology and modern astrology.

2. Lunar influence derived from lunar deities concepts

The influence of mythology on modern astrology is clearly evident in the role played by lunar deities in shaping our understanding and interpretation of the moon’s impact in astrology.

In many cultures and civilizations, the moon was seen as a powerful celestial body with its own deity.

For instance, the Greeks worshipped Selene as the goddess of the moon, attributing her with the power to light up the night sky and control the lunar cycle.

The Romans, on the other hand, revered Luna as their lunar goddess, linking her to chastity, femininity, and the menstrual cycle.

In astrology, the moon represents our emotional inner world, reflecting the Greek and Roman belief in the moon as a feminine force related to emotional depth and intuitive understanding.

The moon is also connected to our subconscious, alluding to the mystical and hidden qualities often associated with lunar deities.

The phases of the moon, which were carefully observed and regulated by ancient societies, are also seen as significant in astrology.

Each lunar phase is believed to have a unique astrological significance, influencing different aspects of our lives and personal growth.

The concept of a new moon, for instance, represents fresh beginnings and new opportunities in astrology, whereas a full moon is often linked to high emotional intensity and fulfillment.

In this way, the myths concerning lunar deities continue to shape our understanding of the moon’s astrological influence today.

Moreover, many lunar deities were connected to other important aspects of life such as fertility, agriculture, and timekeeping, which continue to feature in astrological interpretations of the moon.

It’s clear that the perception of the moon in modern astrology has been heavily influenced by the ancient myths and beliefs revolving around lunar deities.

The moon’s powerful and multifaceted role within astrology, such as representing emotional responses, intuitive connection, and unconscious behaviors, is deeply embedded in the mythological stories associated with lunar deities.

This interplay between mythology and astrology remains an important aspect of astrological interpretation and practice even today.

It’s thus evident that mythology doesn’t merely form part of the historical background of astrology; it continues to shape, inform, and enrich modern astrological interpretations and understandings on a profound level.

3. Gods related to planets influence their traits

One of the significant ways in which mythology influences modern astrology is through the association of gods with the planets in our solar system.

In most cases, the characteristics, personalities and stories associated with these gods played a critical role in defining the traits associated with the corresponding planets.

For instance, Mars, regarded as the god of war in Roman mythology, has influenced the representation of the planet Mars in astrology as a symbol of aggression and conflict.

Venus, on the other hand, named after the Roman goddess of love and beauty, is seen as representing these traits in astrological interpretations.

The characteristics and traits linked to the deities linked to the planets have found their way into modern astrological readings and predictions.

Jupiter, named after the king of the Roman gods, is associated with abundance, growth, and success in astrology.

Similarly, Saturn, named after the Roman god of agriculture and harvest, is associated with discipline, responsibility, and long term planning.

Continuing this pattern, Mercury, associated with the speedy Roman messenger god, is described as representing communication, intellect, and expressiveness in astrological circles.

These mythological associations don’t stop with just the Roman gods. Even the outer planets, Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto, are named after Roman deities, influencing how these celestial bodies are interpreted in astrology today.

Uranus, the god of the sky and heavens in Roman mythology, has led to the astrological representation of the planet Uranus as the symbol of innovation, rebellion, and sudden, drastic changes.

In a similar vein, Neptune, the god of the seas in Roman mythology, influences the representation of the planet Neptune in astrology as being associated with dreams, spirituality, and the subconscious mind.

And finally, Pluto, named after the Roman god of the underworld, influences the astrological symbolism of the planet Pluto as being associated with transformation, rebirth, and power.

It’s intriguing to note that even though these mythologies were created hundreds of years ago, their influence still permeates the realm of modern astrology.

All these mythological influences offer a rich tapestry of meaning and symbolism in astrological interpretations, creating a deep connection between ancient myths and the modern practice of astrology.

4. Uranus, Neptune, Pluto Named After Roman Gods

In modern astrology, the planets Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto are given special significance because they are named after figures from ancient Roman mythology.

These named planets are recognized as celestial bodies with very distinctive characteristics and influences which are deeply rooted in their respective mythological origin.

Uranus, named after the Roman god of heavens, is considered unpredictable and oftentimes linked to big changes and revolution in astrology.

As the proverbial sky god, Uranus was the literal embodiment of the heavens; this is reflected in astrology as the planet symbolizes the urge for originality, shock value, ground-breaking ideas, and radical shifts.

Accordingly, when Uranus appears prominently in an astrological chart, it signifies an individual’s potential affinity for unexpected turns of fate, unique ideas, and rebellion against the status quo.

Neptune, meanwhile, is named after the Roman god of the sea. In mythology, Neptune wields control over the oceans, a dominion purported to symbolize the realm of collective unconscious, dreams, and illusions.

Thus, in astrology, Neptune is often associated with intuition, creativity, spirituality, and deception; its placement in a birth chart might indicate a person’s inclination towards artistry, spirituality and, at the extremity, escapism.

Pluto, the farthest known planet from the sun in our solar system, shares a name with the Roman god of the underworld.

The planet’s namesake, Pluto, ruled over the depths of the underworld, an unlit world symbolizing mysteries and hidden truths.

Similarly, astrologically, Pluto signifies transformation, power, rebirth, and our subconscious including our deepest fears and desires.

When Pluto takes a prominent place in one’s chart, it can also signify a person’s capacity for intense focus, deep transformational journeys and even power struggles.

Therefore, each of these planets and their respective mythological namesakes have a profound impact on modern-day astrology, influencing our reading and interpretation of celestial patterns.

Through these mythological figures, astrology borrows rich symbolism that yields insight into the complex personalities and life patterns that define human experiences.

As described herein, these planets serve as strong representations of the bridge between mythology and astrology, depicting the enduring influence of these ancient stories on our understanding of the cosmos.

5. Elements (Earth, Air, Fire, Water) linked to mythology

When discussing the topic of astrology, the concept of the elements cannot be dismissed.

These elements, specifically Earth, Air, Fire, and Water, have been derived from ancient myths and legends.

The use of these elements in astrology has its roots deeply embedded in ancient mythology.

The element of Earth, for instance, is associated with the goddess Gaia or Mother Earth, who in Greek mythology, was the great mother of all.

This association leads to the Earth signs in astrology (Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn) being seen as grounded, pragmatic, and materialistic.

This connection to the idea of the nurturing and grounded Mother Earth contributes to the characteristics given to these Earth signs.

Moving on to the element of Air, which represents breath or life, is often associated with gods related to the sky, wind, and intellect, for example, Hermes, the messenger of the gods in Greek mythology.

From this, Air signs in astrology (Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius) are often seen as intellectual, communicative, and changeable.

The element of Fire, in mythology, is tied to gods associated with sunshine, fire, and light, such as Apollo, the Greek sun god.

This influences the Fire signs in astrology (Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius), attributing them traits of being passionate, dynamic, and transformative.

The element of Water, on the other hand, is linked to water deities such as Poseidon, the Greek God of the Sea.

Consequently, the Water signs in astrology (Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces) exhibit attributes of being emotional, intuitive, and mysterious.

All these examples illustrate how the elements in astrology have been influenced and shaped by various characters and concepts from ancient mythology.

It’s evident that mythology plays a pivotal role in defining the characteristics and traits associated with the elements and, subsequently, the various astrological signs.

The integration and interpretation of these ancient mythological elements in modern astrology, enhances the richness and depth of this popular practice.

6. Gaia-Mother Earth Concept in Earth Sign Astrology

In understanding the connection between mythology and modern astrology, one essential concept to consider is Gaia or Mother Earth’s influence in Earth Sign astrology.

According to ancient Greek mythology, Gaia is the personification of Earth, known as the mother of all life.

She was revered as the divine entity from which all living beings arose, contributing significantly to the concept of nurturing and groundedness found in earth sign astrology.

Relating to modern astrology, individuals that fall under earth signs (Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn) are believed to harbor characteristics that mirror Mother Earth’s nurturing essence.

This includes being nurturing, practical, reliable, and incredibly grounded – a clear reflection of Gaia’s essence

Moreover, these individuals are said to possess the ability to stay grounded in reality, similar to how Earth always remains solid and reliable.

In astrology, the energy emanating from these signs is thought to reflect the stability and tangibility of Earth.

It’s also worth noting that in ancient times, Earth was often associated with femininity and motherhood due to its nurturing and life-giving attributes, and this association continues to influence the interpretation of earth signs in astrology.

They are depicted as signs that carry a strong, care-taking energy, just like a mother would.

The understanding of Gaia, or Mother Earth, within the framework of astrology offers a deeper, more rooted understanding of the inextricable links between mythology and astrology.

We can see how ancient understanding and reverence of Earth’s nurturing and grounding qualities were profoundly influential in the development of earth sign characteristics in astrology.

Through the lens of mythology, we can gain a greater appreciation for the astrological narratives and the belief systems established to explain various celestial events and their influence on human behavior.

In essence, Gaia, the Mother Earth figure from mythology, has been instrumental in shaping a key component of modern astrology – the interpretation of earth signs and their attributes.

Thus, the concept of Gaia, along with other mythological entities, serves as a narrative basis contributing to astrology’s modern understanding.

The link between the Gaia-Mother Earth concept and Earth Sign astrology is evidence of the enduring influence of mythology in interpretation and perception of celestial bodies and events in present-day astrology.

7. Chronos-Father Time influences Saturn’s characteristics

In the realm of modern astrology, the characteristics attributed to the planet Saturn are deeply rooted in mythology, particularly in the figure of Chronos, the Greek god of time.

Chronos, often called Father Time, was a pre-Olympian god who was perceived to govern the inexorable passage of time, symbolized by the powerful force that both creates and destroys.

In line with this, Saturn in astrology is associated with the concepts of structure, discipline, and time.

The embodiment of this planetary energy is thought to encourage adherence to societal norms, the importance of order, and the fruits of disciplined effort.

Interestingly, Chronos was also associated with the myriad, cyclical aspects of time, including the seasons, the life cycles of human beings and the notion of karmic retribution which aligns with Saturn’s astrological reputation for relaying lessons of karma and risking consequences when one eschews their responsibilities.

Furthermore, Saturn is viewed in astrology as a teacher or taskmaster, echoing the Chronos’s role as a regulator of existence.

This gives Saturn connotations of strictness and authority, as it supposedly urges individuals to face their realities and adopt a stoic disposition towards hardships.

The image of the scythe, often seen carried by depictions of Father Time, is another symbolic tie between Chronos and Saturn.

As Saturn corresponds to the later stages of life in astrological lore, the scythe is a poignant reminder of mortality and the frailty of human existence.

In essence, the close association between Saturn and Chronos showcases how mythology influences the understanding and interpretation of planetary energies in astrology.

Every time an astrologer refers to the stern lessons of Saturn or the maturing influence of this gigantic planet, they are drawing upon a mythic framework that is thousands of years old.

It is a clear illustration of how the tradition of astrology weaves together observable celestial phenomena and interpretive power from ancient myths.

Saturn’s lesson, rooted in the authority of time governed by Chronos, is an enduring illustration of the way mythology continues to shape modern astrology.

Whether one views Saturn’s influence with apprehension or acceptance, its mythology-laden significance is a testimony to the enduring resonance of these ancient narratives within astrological practice.

8. Apollo, the Sun God, influencing Sun Signs

In the realm of astrology, the Sun is a central element, emblematic of our essential self, our vitality, and spirit.

Just like its importance in the cosmos, the Sun holds significant meaning in the context of astrology, paralleling its role as a life-giving source.

The sun-god Apollo, from Greek mythology, holds a direct line of influence to the interpretation of Sun signs in astrology today.

As a deity of music, truth, healing, the Sun, and light, Apollo’s attributes radiate prominently in the characteristics of Sun signs.

Apollo’s association with music and poetry, for instance, is seen in the creative and expressive nature of Leos, a fire sign governed by the Sun.

Moreover, Apollo’s truthfulness mirrors the honesty and frankness that are quintessential traits of all Sun signs, such as Aries and Sagittarius.

The Sun is seen as the ‘ruler’ of the zodiac Leo, and the characteristics of this sign often resonate with the vibrant and dynamic nature of Apollo.

The healing aspect of Apollo gets correlated with the Sun sign’s tendency to restore and rejuvenize, as the Sun itself nurtures life on Earth.

From this perspective, understanding the mythological links between Apollo and the Sun can deepen our understanding of the symbolism and influence of Sun signs in astrology.

Apollo, as a Sun god, shed light on the world, both literally and symbolically, bringing clarity and knowledge – an attribute that is central to the Sun’s radiance and illumination in astrological context.

Notably, the Sun in astrology is also associated with father figures and authority, echoing the influence of Apollo who was often considered a figure of authority.

The elements of light and truth that Apollo personifies, are equally significant for Sun signs, shaping their common tendencies toward seeking clarity, enlightenment, and authenticity.

In essence, the influence of Apollo in Greek/Roman mythology extends itself into modern astrology, coloring the interpretation of Sun signs with nuances of the Sun god’s persona.

The magnificence of Apollo, his brilliance, and his multifaceted nature essentially provides a rich mythological backdrop for understanding the Sun signs in astrology.

9. Mythological tales set foundations for horoscope readings

The origins of horoscope readings can be traced back to various mythological tales from ancient cultures, primarily the Greeks and Romans.

Every constellation and planet used in the casting of a horoscope has a mythological story attached to it, giving its intrinsic meaning and influence.

For instance, the story of Aries, the Ram, in Greek mythology is about a golden Ram that was sacrificed to the gods, symbolizing courage, self-sacrifice, and new beginnings, traits associated with Aries in modern astrology.

Similarly, the Leo sign is derived from the Nemean Lion, a monstrous lion defeated by Hercules in Greek mythology, representing the traits of bravery, courage, and dominance prevalent in Leo individuals.

These associations have helped in building the interpretations of how these celestial bodies affect the lives of individuals as per their astrological signs.

In a similar vein, the stories of Venus, the Roman goddess of love, and Mars, the god of war, have influenced the significance of these planets in astrology, representing love, passion, aggression, and energy.

These stories do not just give a personality to these celestial bodies but also provide a context for their movements and interactions during horoscope readings.

The narratives of Mercury, the swift messenger god, and Jupiter, the king of gods, have also found their place in astrology, symbolizing communication, intellect, wisdom, and wealth.

In modern horoscope readings, when a person’s sign is mentioned, an astrologer refers not just to the planet but also the mythical attributes associated with that planet.

The essential understanding is that these mythological tales still help define the core characters and influences of each sign and planet in modern astrology.

This long-standing tradition continues to have a significant impact on how we view and interpret astrological signs and horoscopes.

Thus, mythological tales remain at the very core of astrology as we know it today, forming the structural spine and providing the interpretative basis for horoscope readings.

This proves how deeply intertwined these mythologies are with horoscope readings, serving as the cultural and historical underpinning behind the science of astrology.

Ultimately, the richness and diversity of these mythological tales are the foundations upon which the intricate entities of modern astrology are built.

By steeping itself in these ancient tales, astrology doesn’t just preserve a significant aspect of our cultural heritage; it also offers a deeper and more holistic understanding of human behavior and life events.

10. Interpretation of celestial bodies based on myths

The influence of mythology on modern astrology is profoundly evident in the interpretation of celestial bodies.

Historically, ancient civilizations looked to the skies for answers and guidance, often attributing the patterns and movements they observed to the actions of mythical figures.

The Gods and Goddesses represented the planets and star constellations, with their stories and attributes defining our understanding and interpretation of these celestial bodies.

The planet Mars, for instance, is named after the Roman God of War and is associated in astrology with aggression, courage, and conflict.

This relationship between celestial bodies and mythological figures establishes a rich and complex context for astrological interpretation.

In astrology, the planet Venus symbolizes love, beauty, and harmony, reflecting its namesake, the Roman Goddess of Love.

Jupiter, named after the King of the Gods in Roman mythology, signifies prosperity, growth, and optimism in astrology.

The Moon has its own significance and is linked to the Greek Titaness Selene, symbolizing the subconscious, emotions, and intuition.

Each celestial body carries a history, a set of attributes, and a personality defined by mythology.

The mythological interpretations give depth to the astrological chart, equipping astrologers with a wealth of information and insight to draw upon.

It’s why myths are so crucial to astrology; they serve as a framework for understanding and interpreting the celestial bodies’ influence on our lives.

The mythology behind these celestial bodies provide a contextual layer, offering more intricate, personalized readings rather than simple, generic statements.

Astrologers who understand the significance of mythology in astrology can offer their clients a more comprehensive understanding of their astrological chart, and as a result, of themselves.

Contrary to the modern skepticism towards Astrology, its core in mythology, particularly in narratives around celestial bodies has provided it with layers of complexity and meaningful interpretation.

In fact, when approached from this perspective, modern astrology becomes a powerful tool for self-awareness and personal growth, built on the long-standing wisdom of mythology.

The Bottom Line

Thus, it can be reiterated that astrology and mythological figures have a profoundly reciprocal relationship.

The Zodiac signs derived from Greek and Roman mythology play a significant role in shaping personality traits.

Similarly, the influence of lunar deities on lunar cycles underscores how ancient mythological concepts continue to impact modern perceptions.

Planet-related gods play a unique role in determining their associated planetary traits, mirroring Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto being named after Roman gods.

The elemental categories, too, are deeply rooted in mythology.

The concept of Gaia as Mother Earth finds significant relevance in Earth Sign astrology, while Chronos’ influence as Father Time is observed in Saturn’s characteristics.

Furthermore, Apollo’s role as the Sun god manifests in the traits of Sun signs.

These mythological tales provide an invaluable foundation for horoscope readings and interpretations of celestial bodies.

Essentially, myths have sculpted our understanding and interpretation of astrological phenomena, making them inseparable from each other.