The modern interest in astrology is not new. Babylon had a long and rich history of astrology, reading the signs of heavenly bodies to fortell the future and avert the evil.
Astrology was a divine art, practiced by Babylonian scholars, watchers of the heavens, for the benefit of the king, the royal court and the important nobles and wealthy patrons. Babylonian gods, personified by the sun, the moon and the stars, were heavily called on, appealed to and relied on.
Astronomy, divination, rituals, and healing arts were all closly connected with astrology. Amulets and charms, favorable and unfavorable times of the day, magical herbs, and prayers were all parts of daily life in Babylon, long before, during and well after the reign of the Achaemenids.
Babylonian Star Map
The few surviving versions of the great Babylonian lyrical prayer poem of 'Gods of the Night' has a timeless appeal.
"Ilî Muîti... Night has put on her veil, The Palace is quiet, the gods flicker in the night, to protect life in the place of fate... Stand by me, O Gods of the Night, Listen to my words, O Gods of Destinies... I call to you, Lady of the silence of the night..."
