Astrology is the study of the relationship between the movements of
the stars and their influence on people and events. From an Islamic
perspective, Astrology is divided into two branches - polytheistic and
lawful.
Polytheistic Astrology
Can you imagine claming that the stars and planets have such
domineering power that they can steer people's lives and destinies? That
they are the determining factor of good or bad luck? This form of
polytheism, experienced by those to whom Abraham,
peace be upon him,
was sent, insinuates ascribing partners to Allah in worship. It also
presumes a relationship between stars, planets and events that take
place on Earth by which, the future can be predicted. It claims
knowledge of the unseen based on speculations and conjectures when such
knowledge is unique to Allah Alone.
As Muslims, we know that the stars and planets cannot be used as
indicators of happiness or misery, life or death. Allah says in the
Qur'an:
"(He Alone is) the All-Knower of the ghayb (unseen), and He reveals to none His ghayb
(unseen), except to a Messenger (from mankind) whom He has chosen. (He
informs him of unseen as much as He likes), and then He makes a band of
watching guards (agnels) to march before him and after him." [Al-Qur'an 72:26-27]
Ruling
Muslims are not allowed to learn or teach polytheistic astrology because the Prophet,
sallallahu 'alayhi wa sallam, regarded it as a branch of magic, which is prohibited by Islamic law. Allah says in the
Qur'an:
"They followed what the
devils gave out (falsely of the magic) in the lifetime of Solomon.
Solomon did not disbelieve, but the devils disbelieved, teaching men
magic and such things that came down at Babylon to the two angels, Harut
and Marut, but neither of these two (angels) taught anyone (such
things) till they had said, 'We are only for trial, so disbelieve not
(by learning this magic from us).' " [Al-Qur'an 2:102]
It also involves learning something that has no benefit. If a Muslim
were to learn it for a career, all associated gains would be unlawful.
And, anyone who teaches it to others, spreads falsehood.
Astrology in Popular Culture
Polytheistic astrology has dramatically spread in recent years, and
it has become a means of distorting people's belief in Allah. Private
institutes have been founded, books, magazines and newspapers are
published, under various titles such as
What's in the Stars for You?,
Constellations and many others in order to advertise such a seductive commodity that often appeals to the uneducated public.
A true Muslim should stay away from this type of astrology because if
he does not, it is likely to exclude him completely from the fold of
Islam.
Lawful Astrology
This is the scientific study of stars for determining and fixing time
division such as months and seasons and determining and fixing compass
directions. In modern times, this can be called astronomy, and this is
lawful because it is perceived by the senses and fixed calculations,
which can help determine the times of prescribed prayers, and other
religious duties that should be observed at certain times.
Divine Wisdom Behind the Creation of the Stars
Allah has informed us of His intended purpose for the stars:
"And indeed We have adorned the nearest heaven with lamps." [Al-Qur'an 67:5]
"And landmarks (sign posts during the day) and by the stars (during the night), they (mankind) guide themselves." [Al-Qur'an 16:16]
" ... and We have made such lamps as missiles to drive away the shayatin (devils)." [Al-Qur'an 67:5]
Because this subject is often overlooked, many Muslims may not be
aware of the ruling of astrology. It would be easy to find it amusing to
check on one's horoscope or discuss which 'sign' you were born under.
But, as with many elements of today's popular culture, we must force
ourselves to refocus our lives, and live every day to please Allah,
subhanahu wa ta'ala,
in case it may be our last. Spending idle time on such foolishness is
not only wasteful, but it is a sign that we are venturing away from the
straight path.
(s)
al-Jumu'ah Magazine