What Does the Bible Say About Astrology? Understanding Horoscopes Through Scripture

Throughout human history, astrology has repeatedly resurfaced as a system people turn to when searching for meaning, identity, or direction. Even now—despite modern technology—many still study horoscope predictions, track zodiac signs, and consult an astrologer for insight. Yet these practices are far older than our era. Similar systems existed in ancient Babylon, and traces of them appear throughout the Old Testament.

Because so many voices today promote different interpretations of the stars, believers often wonder what the Bible has to say about astrology. To avoid confusion, it’s essential to turn to Scripture, not cultural trends, for clarity.

What the Bible Has to Say About Astrology and the Heavens

The Bible frequently mentions the heavens, the sun, the moon, and the stars. They are described as part of God’s ordered creation—placed in the sky to mark seasons and rhythms of time, “lights in the expanse of the heavens” meant to distinguish day from the night and help humanity understand God’s design.

However, Scripture draws a sharp line between observing creation and using it for divination. Several passages warn God's people not to imitate surrounding nations that relied on fortune-telling, omen-reading, or star-based interpretations of destiny.

Key biblical themes include:

These warnings appear in books such as Deuteronomy, Isaiah, and 1 Samuel, forming a consistent message throughout biblical history.

What Is Astrology? How Scripture Views the Practice of Divination

The practice of astrology teaches that the arrangement of the sun, moon, planets, and constellations influences events on Earth. In ancient languages, astrology was sometimes described as “reading the heavens,” implying that secret meaning could be extracted from the stars.

The Bible, however, labels this a form of divination—a pursuit of hidden knowledge through supernatural or occult means. This includes:

While many turn to these systems seeking wisdom, Scripture teaches that true wisdom is given when we ask God, not when we search the sky for answers.

What Does the World Say About Astrology and Zodiac Signs?

Modern culture often treats zodiac signs as identity markers. People use them to justify personality traits or make major life decisions. Others attempt to merge biblical imagery with constellations—such as linking the Lion of Judah to Leo—even though Scripture never validates such associations.

Instead, the Bible teaches:

While the stars have purpose, they were not created to define human destiny.

What the Bible Says About Astrology: Insights from the Old Testament

The Bible contains several powerful examples contrasting human attempts at divination with God’s genuine wisdom.

1. God Created the Stars With Purpose

In Genesis, God forms the stars to function as markers of time—to “let them be for signs” of seasons and years, not tools for divination. They were made to proclaim God’s craftsmanship, not to predict the future.

2. God Is the Creator of the Constellations

The book of Job describes God as the one who crafted the heavens, naming constellations such as the Bear and Orion, the Pleiades, and the southern stars. The Bible points to these patterns not for mystical decoding but to emphasize God’s power.

3. Astrologers Could Not Reveal the Mystery to the King

In the book of Daniel, King Nebuchadnezzar summons wise men—including astrologers, magicians, and enchanters—to interpret his troubling dream. They admitted they could not show to the king the mystery that the king demanded.

But God revealed the dream through Daniel alone.

This moment illustrates a profound truth:

Astrologers can show nothing that God does not reveal. True insight comes from the Lord.

Isaiah’s Warning Against Astrology

In Isaiah’s writing, God addresses the astrologers and stargazers of Babylon. The prophet mocks their inability to save themselves—or anyone else—from divine judgment. He describes them as powerless, unable to stand before even a consuming flame.

Isaiah teaches that relying on astrology, stargazing, or magical systems leads nowhere. They cannot offer salvation, certainty, or security.

Deuteronomy and the Prohibition of Divination

In Deuteronomy, God warns Israel not to imitate the spiritual customs of surrounding nations:

These practices were common in ancient Babylon, but God commanded His people to rely only on Him. The phrase “shall not be found among you” underscores the seriousness of the command.

What Is the Purpose of the Stars According to Scripture?

Scripture consistently teaches that the stars point us back to their Creator. The Psalms describe the heavens as a cosmic testimony:

“The heavens declare the glory of God.”

Their purpose includes:

They were never given to humanity as spiritual shortcuts or systems of guidance.

Astrology redirects honor from God to the created order, which Scripture warns against repeatedly.

A Personal Challenge for Believers

When confronted with questions about the practice of astrology, spiritual trends, or modern horoscope culture, believers are called to seek God—not cosmic symbols. The Bible offers counsel, direction, and wisdom for every season of life.

The New Testament encourages us to pray for understanding:

If anyone lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all.

God is not silent. He leads, protects, and answers those who turn to Him. You do not need the stars to define your purpose. The One who made the stars already knows your future and invites you to walk with Him.