Astrology, which is highly valued by all classes of society in the Orient, is a highly complex and intricate subject calling for a sound knowledge of mathematics and astronomy. By linking the movement of the stars and planets with the fortunes of mankind the ancient seers and sages developed a science by which they were able to predict the future of mankind both individually and as a whole. This science and its knowledge were linked very closely with the sciences of medicine and philosophy. In fact knowledge of all three was required by the Vedic practitioners of medicine to become a competent doctor.

The knowledge of this science has till today remained confined to the priestly classes, especially in India. Astrology and astrologers were in great demand in the courts of kings and statesmen to take crucial decisions, or at least to help in doing so. They were also called upon to make predictions in matters of the birth of progeny and many other matters relating to the royal families. Much store was placed in the decisions and predictions made by these learned men-so much so that some of them achieved positions of great power and influence in the courts. No court in the orient or the occident was complete without the state-appointed astrologer.

The belief in their powers carried on down to the lower strata of society where they were equally in demand to predict the fortunes of individuals. Even today in India there are not many families whose children have not had their Janma Kundalis (Birth Charts) prepared by the astrologers. These charts come into use at the time of marriage or in taking decisions about the future of one's offspring. This is still very much in practice today and can be seen at the time of marriage when both the groom and bridegroom have their charts compared before the finalization of their marriage.

This same chart can be used before the starting of a new project or making any decision about one's future career. This chart is used throughout the subject's life as a base for any future predictions that may be made later on. For the true believer it is the most important document, which he can relate to throughout his lifetime. These documents are to be found in almost all orthodox Hindu homes. Political decisions of great importance, life decisions, marriages and education depend upon the portents revealed in these charts Since a large number of people seem to be convinced of the value of astrology, it makes one wish to have a closer look at it.

The astrologer himself is obliged to go through many years of arduous training before he can claim to have mastered this science. Even then there are astrologers and astrologers. Those who have most success are the ones who have either found a powerful and influential patron, or the ones who have made predictions, which have been proved true time and time again. In this book the author has introduced us to the world of astrology. He has described the planets and their influence over us, as well as going into the meanings of the zodiacal signs. He has also delved into the mysteries of the Kabala as he points out that none of the principles of this science are arbitrary but proceed from the books of the Kabala and the traditions of the Rosicrucian. He has also included the Tarot in amongst the gamut of information that he has presented related to astrology. The long chapter that he has included on this subject introduces the reader to the world of the ancient Egyptian initiations as well as again the deep connection of the Kabalistic teachings.

Astrology still baffles and astounds the masses. It is no wonder that in most ancient times astrologers, were thought of by the majority of the people as priests and demi-gods, when they predicted eclipses and the ilk. Even to predict such events without the advantage of the technology available today is in itself quite a mind-boggling event.

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