24/08/2009

The more I study it, the more I find astrology to be both extremely structured, but also very fluid.  There is plenty of room for organic movement and interrelations within astrology.  This movement can be partly attributed to the different branches of astrology. 

There are many branches and disciplines of astrology, and this article touches on the two branches known as Esoteric and Classic.  The differences between Esoteric astrology and Classic astrology are noteworthy. 

The major difference between Esoteric astrology and Classic astrology is the interpretation of how the heavens reflect themselves within and upon human beings. 

To wit:

• Esoteric astrology addresses the progress of the soul and spiritual evolution. 
  
  
• Classic astrology focuses on the development the personality, identity, and individuality. 

Classic astrology (aka: mundane or exoteric astrology) looks closely at the progress of the individual in everyday life, whereas Esoteric astrology observes aspects of the soul like karma, consciousness and life purpose on a grand scale.

In a nutshell, Classic astrology looks at the ego (individual/personality) as it interacts with external perspective.  Esoteric astrology looks at the evolution of the multi-dimensional soul and seeks wisdom from an internal perspective.

Of course, these are oversimplified definitions.  As humans, our experiences are vastly diverse.  Our external and internal life experiences are intertwined.  The human personality and soul is also inextricably intertwined.  Separating these aspects of the human organism is quite impossible.  Therefore, we will find a co-mingling of meanings in our studies of Esoteric and Classic astrology.

Focus between karmic soul evolution and localized individuality aren't the only differences between Esoteric astrology and Classic astrology.  The ruling planets differ too.  Here is a chart of comparisons to succinctly illustrate major differences between Esoteric astrology and Classic astrology in planetary rulership of each zodiac sign:

Zodiac Sign	Ruling Planet in Esoteric Astrology	Ruling Planet in Classic Astrology
Aries	Mercury	Mars
Taurus	Vulcan	Venus
Gemini	Venus	Mercury
Cancer	Neptune	Moon
Leo	Sun	Sun
Virgo	Moon	Mercury / Ceres
Libra	Uranus	Venus
Scorpio	Mars	Pluto
Sagittarius	Earth	Jupiter
Capricorn	Saturn	Saturn
Aquarius	Jupiter	Uranus
Pisces	Pluto	Neptune

 

So which branch of study is best suited for you?  That depends on the flavour of wisdom you most avidly require for our growth and development. 

If, for example you seek knowledge to assist you with the evolution of your karma, or more closely understand the multiple layers of your soul purposes - Esoteric astrology is the one to explore.

Alternatively, if you seek to know more about yourself, your personality, your quirks and how you can most effectively interact with your environment - Classic astrology will help you with these insights.

Exploration of both Esoteric and Classic astrology will win you the best results as both branches are valid.  

Better yet, it's a great idea to explore all forms of astrology as this offers the best and broadest picture of the diversity in the stellar realms of wisdom.   A good primer on various forms of astrology and their benefits can be found in this article: A Quick Guide to Different Forms of Astrology here.

Related articles:

What is Astrology?

How Does Astrology Work?

A Quick Guide to Forms of Astrology

Written by: Avia Venefica of www.Whats-Your-Sign.com