Astrology has evolved over millennia, with each historical period developing its unique techniques, philosophies, and methods. Understanding the differences helps students and practitioners contextualize classical methods.

🔹 Hellenistic Astrology (circa 2nd century BCE – 6th century CE)

• Origin: Ancient Greece and Egypt (Alexandria).
• Characteristics:
  • Focus on fate, destiny, and life timing.
  • Techniques: Zodiac signs, planets, aspects, houses, lots (Arabic Parts), profections, and primary directions.
  • Emphasis: Natal astrology, timing of events, predictive methods.
• Notable Figures: Claudius Ptolemy, Vettius Valens, Dorotheus of Sidon.

🔹 Medieval / Middle Ages Astrology (6th – 15th century CE)

• Origin: Europe, heavily influenced by Arabic and Hellenistic sources.
• Characteristics:
  • Integration of Christian philosophy and moral perspectives.
  • Emphasis on horary astrology (answering questions) and electional astrology (choosing auspicious times).
  • Techniques: Ptolemaic elements, essential and accidental dignities, lots, and planetary hours.
• Notable Figures: Guido Bonatti, Albumasar, Abu Ma’shar.

🔹 Renaissance Astrology (15th – 17th century CE)

• Origin: Europe during the Renaissance, rebirth of classical learning.
• Characteristics:
  • Strong focus on natal astrology, psychological interpretation, and artful symbolism.
  • Integration of astronomy, mathematics, and philosophy.
  • Techniques: Detailed house systems, planetary rulerships, heliocentric influences, fixed stars, and refined aspects.
• Notable Figures: Johannes Kepler, William Lilly, Cornelius Agrippa.

🔹 Key Differences at a Glance