I identify as a Christian, but for as long as I can remember, I've also been into astrology. I'm not talking generic horoscopes in a grocery store magazine that could apply to anyone. I mean astrology for real - decoding natal charts, performing moon rituals, tracking retrogrades and other stuff you wouldn't know about unless you were into astrology too (Fun fact: I'm a Scorpio sun, Gemini moon, Aquarius rising). Unfortunately, my interest is in direct violation of my faith. Or is it?
Let's squash the biggest misconception about astrology in relation to religion right now - astrology in itself is NOT a sin. More than anything else, astrology is a tool for people to understand themselves and the world around them a little better. 25% of adults in the U.S., U.K., and France believe in astrology, and 90% of all adults know their sun sign, at least. Astrology only becomes a catalyst for sin when the individual puts the stars before God (idolatry), or begins to deny free will ("It's okay for me to be indecisive, because I'm a Libra!" or "I have to slowly destroy every person who has ever betrayed me, because I'm a Scorpio!")
Abrahamic religions (Islam, Christianity, and Judaism) are pretty much the only religions on earth that have a problem with astrology, and as a result, believers pass astrology off as sin. That's right, Buddhism, various traditional Chinese religions, and many Native American religions to name a few see nothing wrong with astrology; and even encourage its use to strengthen their beliefs.
So, if you're a curious Muslim, Christian, or Jew, don't feel like learning about astrology is going against God, because it's not! Just like anything that could cause temptation, keep God first and foremost in your dealings so that you don't stray away, and everything will be fine.
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