Gravity and Astrology: Understanding Planetary Influence as a Force of Nature
Astrology is the study of planetary influence. Astrologers chart connections between the movement of planets and the events on Earth. This can be understood better when we consider planetary influence a force of nature, and Astrology as a study of a force of nature.
Different astrologers hold unique philosophies about the inner-workings of Astrology. Many believe that Astrology isn’t causal in nature as this perspective can get problematic. However, I believe that we shouldn’t dismiss this possibility, as doing so would go against the very nature of our studies…When we study the cosmos, and observe the vast and curious nature of our Universe's workings, we open our minds to greater possibilities. To close it up again simply because a concept goes against mere human notions of fairness is...unfair!
This article isn’t meant to persuade you to think Astrology is causal. It’s meant to provide a new perspective and a possible solution to the moral issues that arise with this philosophy. Thus, I present one unique way to understand Astrology...through the lens of gravity:
As previously stated, the influence of the planets on Earth is a force of nature. It doesn’t work to intentionally harm or help us. The result of the force may be baneful or beneficial, but it's never intended. Much like gravity. We don't need to know about gravity or how it works for it to keep us rooted to Earth. The same way we don't need to know about Astrology for the planets to impact us.
Gravity has been a force of nature since before Newton got smacked by an apple. Humans managed to discover gravity, quantify its effects, and study its impact throughout the Universe. We figured out a universal gravitational constant. Because we tried.
Knowing about gravity even helps us work with it and around it. We needed to know how gravity works so humans could build a plane whose wings and shape were efficient enough to take flight. We needed to calculate our planet's escape velocity so we could build rockets that surpass it.
Similarly, with our present understanding of the impact of planets on us, we try to work around it. When we observe influences that are making people more restless and irritable, we try to remain calm. When we observe influences that bring delays, we try to start early and remain patient. When we observe influences that could possibly indicate health issues, we remain cautious and take extra care of our body.
This is our way of being aware of a natural influence and trying to work with it. It may not be as grand as building an aeroplane or a rocket, but it's something that makes our daily lives easier. It's a brilliant tool that gives us a timeline for our life: so we can remain hopeful and aligned.
Considering planetary influence as a force of nature may not convince all Astrologers about the causal nature of Astrology. It’s not my intention to do so either. (Even I’m unsure if Astrology is causal, but I’ll be damned if I don’t remain open-minded) Hopefully, this metaphor can help you explain what Astrology is to a beginner or a cynic.
So the next time you bring up this ‘cool gravity metaphor’ at 2am in a bar, make sure you @ me 😉
