An exploration of how different cultures have mapped the belt of the heavens, from the Babylonian ecliptic to the Chinese lunar mansions.
The Western system is anchored to the changing seasons. Rather than star positions, it divides the ecliptic based on the equinoxes and solstices, beginning with Aries at the Vernal Equinox. It is a solar-centric alignment deeply rooted in Hellenistic philosophy.
Central to Vedic (Indian) astrology, the Sidereal system accounts for the precession of the equinoxes. It maps planets against the actual fixed constellations in the sky. This results in a roughly 24-degree difference from the Tropical system.
Departing from the ecliptic belt concepts, the Chinese system is based on a sexagenary cycle influenced by the lunar calendar and Jupiter's orbit. It categorizes years by twelve symbolic animals and five shifting elements (Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, Water).
Based on the seasonal cycles of the Earth. It follows the Sun's path relative to the equinoxes.
Aligns with the astronomical positions of the constellations, accounting for the drift of the Earth's axis.
A 12-year cycle where each year is represented by an animal and its reputed attributes, based on the lunar calendar.
The primary difference between Western and Eastern celestial mapping is the Ayanamsha—the longitudinal difference between the Tropical and Sidereal zodiacs. This currently stands at approximately 24 degrees, meaning your sun sign may differ between systems.
Learn more about Ayanamsha →Our journal focuses on the cultural anthropology of these systems. We examine how the movement of stars influenced the structuring of ancient societies and their agricultural calendars. By understanding these systems, we gain insight into the shared human history of sky-watching.
Ref: SJ-VOL-IV-2024