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Summary: The zodiac is an imaginary belt in the celestial sphere divided into twelve sections. The signs of the zodiac have come to be referred to as birth signs.
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Z > Zodiac ZodiacBy: Elaine Murray The zodiac is an imaginary belt in the celestial sphere, extending about eight degrees on either side of the ecliptic (the apparent annual path of the sun among the stars.) The width of the zodiac was determined originally, so as to include the orbits of the sun and moon, and the five planets (Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter and Saturn) that were known at the time. The zodiac is divided into twelve, thirty-degree sections called the signs of the zodiac. Starting with the vernal equinox and proceeding eastward along the ecliptic, each of the divisions is named for the constellation situated within the limits. It is believed the naming occurred in the second century B.C.. The names of the zodiacal signs are:
The Chinese also adopted the twelve-fold division, but called the signs respectively: rat, ox, tiger, hare, dragon, serpent, horse, sheep, monkey, hen, dog, and pig. The Aztec Indians devised a similar system - apparently developed independently. Most of us are best acquainted with the zodiac when we read our horoscope in the daily newspaper. (See horoscope.) The zodiac and all it entails, has been with us for a very long time. Have you had your chart done lately? Other Sections: |
Elaine Murray, B.A., teaches spiritual development classes with an emphasis on meditation. She has been a student of metaphysics and parapsychology for over 20 years, culminating in the publishing of "A Layman's Guide to New Age & Spiritual Terms." To contact Elaine write em@newagefast.com.
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