Natal Charts and Astrology

Question

Can I look up my own natal chart and the current planet locations/movements in the sky as long as I don't consult an astrologer?

Answer

Shalom!

Thank you for your question.

As a general rule studying astronomy is permitted however astrology is forbidden.and we do not associate with it in any way.

On the verse “You shall be wholesome with the Lord thy God” (Tamim tehiyeh im Hashem Elokecha) (Deut 18:13) Rashi explains that it refers to a ban to associate ourselves with what’s knowns as “ ov,” “yidoni,” “kishuf,” “onein,” and “n ichush .” Without getting into the exact translation of each one of these terms, they all refer to various forms of black magic, witchcraft, future predictions, and sorcery.

Rashi explains that we should not be trying to determine or future or look into the future with such activities whether they work or not. Rather, as Rashi says, “we should fully walk with Hashem and only rely on Hashem instead of searching for the future. We are to accept wholeheartedly whatever Hashem wants to occur.”

Yes, many people find it exciting to determine what will happen to us in the future.It is not the way Hashem wants us to live. Our job is to live a life of Torah and mitzvot and Hashem will bring upon as what is meant to come, may it only be for good. Indeed, the Ramban explains this verse to mean that we are to avoid sorcerers and the like and ignore any predictions they might claim (including natal charts) as we can overcome all such negative prediction with Hashem’s help by living a life of Torah and mitzvot.


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