Written by Dr. Asanee Brogan, Spiritual Coach
Dr. Asanee Brogan is a seasoned spiritual coach who specializes in African spirituality, the Ifá tradition, and Voodoo. She is the founder of Asanee 44 LLC, the author of African Spirituality for Beginners and similar books, and the host of the African Spirit Reintegrated + Reimagined podcast.
Astrology, the study of celestial bodies and their influence on human affairs has been a significant part of various cultures worldwide. While Western astrology often dominates the conversation, African astrology prevailed for ages prior to the modern era. It offers a rich and unique perspective deeply rooted in the continent's history and cultural heritage. Understanding African astrology can provide profound knowledge about your destiny or life path. Ultimately, it enriches your journey by helping you find your path.
Origins of African astrology
African astrology has a long and varied history, originating from ancient African civilizations such as the Egyptians, Malians, and Yoruba tribes spread throughout West Africa. These cultures developed unique and distinct astrological systems, which were intricately linked to their cosmology, mythology, and daily life. Unlike Western astrology, which primarily focuses on the positions of the sun, moon, and planets, African astrology often incorporates the influence of nature, the ancestors, and other spiritual elements.
Corresponding natural phonenoma in the African zodiac
At the heart of African astrology lies a system of zodiac signs that are uniquely African. Each sign is associated with specific characteristics and elements, reflecting the continent's diverse cultures and natural environment. While similar in nature, many African astrology components vary based on the region or culture from which they were derived. Some cultures include 12 zodiac signs, while others use 13 or more within their astrological interpretations.
Common African zodiac signs incorporate elements such as
Trees: These structures connect to our roots or lineage. They can represent our family line and the geographical location of our birth. Additionally, trees symbolize the notions of strength, resilience, stability, and wisdom. The correspondence of trees at your time of birth indicates your connection to your lineage.
Metals: Metals symbolize our foundation and ability to create a stable civilization. They connect to the notion of industrialization and innovation since they are the building blocks of society. Your connection to specific metals at your time of birth correlates to your place in industry and societal advancement.
Charity: The notion of service to others is paramount in African society. African civilizations are founded on collectivism, whereby salient nations ensure that the needs of the entire population are adequately met. Ancient wisdom dictates that we give to others in need because, in doing so, we create balance. Even more, we initiate the concept of reciprocity whereby we duly receive help in our time of need. Your desire to serve others or need to be served by others connects to the element of charity in your birth chart.
Marketplace: The marketplace is the hub of commerce. It’s where we exchange goods and services for the benefit of ourselves and others. Understanding your role and connection to the marketplace is vital in caring for your basic needs.
Family: This dynamic represents the nuclear family unit, which is the nucleus of society and the bloodline or roots. The immediate members of our households have the greatest influence over our personality and worldview. Therefore, they impact us at a greater frequency than all other bonds and relationships in our formative years. How we connect or fail to do so with our immediate family is determined by Cosmic phenomena at our time of birth.
Traveler: This element symbolizes our need and desire to explore the world physically, intellectually, and emotionally. We all have a journey to take in this lifetime. However, each of our destinies is different, which means that some will travel far and wide, whether in body, mind, spirit, or soul. The mechanism, mood, and distance that you travel in this lifetime are ultimately shaped by the traveler’s influence on your natal chart.
Infusing the wisdom of ancestral spirits in African astrology
In African astrology, ancestors play a crucial and revered role, bridging the gap between the spiritual and physical realms. This ancestral connection is deeply woven into the fabric of African spiritual practices and astrological systems. In many African traditions, ancestors act as intermediaries between the physical and spiritual realms.
Our ancestors mediate spiritual energies and align our ase or energic force with cosmic flow. This mediation helps us better understand and navigate our life paths. As such, ancestral guidance is often sought during African astrology readings. However, beyond that, ancestors are vital in other ways in astrological studies practiced on the continent.
Examples of how they connect with this concept
Guidance and wisdom
Ancestors offer guidance and wisdom that influence our destiny. Their experiences and spiritual knowledge are considered vital in interpreting astrological signs and understanding one's path in life. By aligning with ancestral wisdom, individuals gain deeper insights into their journey and cosmic alignment. This connection allows them to make informed decisions that strengthen their paths.
Cultural and personal identity
The influence of ancestors in African astrology also ties deeply to cultural and personal identity. Ancestral connections are seen as a key factor in understanding one’s personality, gifts, and talents. We often reflect the values, traditions, and destinies of our lineage. By honoring and connecting with our ancestors, we can gain a more holistic view of our destiny.
Rituals and offerings
Finally, ancestor rituals and offerings are often recommended during African astrology readings. The intricacies of each vary based on an individual’s circumstances, but they are beneficial nonetheless. Designed to strengthen the bond between us and our ancestral heritage, these tools ensure that our progenitors actively guide and protect us. Such practices help to align personal astrological influences with ancestral support and blessings.
Synchronizing elemental forces in African astrology
African astrology also incorporates four primary elements: Earth, Water, Fire, and Air. Each element influences the zodiac signs in specific ways.
Earth: This element imbues us with a sense of stability, practicality, and reliability. Individuals heavily influenced by Earth are grounded and methodical.
Water: Water links to our emotions, intuition, and adaptability. People with predominant elemental water tend to be empathetic and fluid in their actions.
Fire: This element ignites passion, energy, and enthusiasm within our core being. Fire people are dynamic and ambitious.
Air: Air or Spirit aligns with our intellectual, communication, and logistical capacities. Those with abundant air elements tend to be highly analytical, social, and deeply connected to the Spirit world.
Some African cultures even include the mineral element as part of their spiritual dynamics. As mentioned, minerals represent the foundation of civilization. They are building blocks for every aspect of our physical environment. Though they are part of each of the above elements, they are separate and distinct forces necessary for sustainability and growth.
How to interpret your African zodiac sign
To discover your African zodiac sign, you need to know your birth date and match it with the corresponding sign in an African zodiac system. Understanding your sign can provide valuable insight into your personality, relationships, and life choices. For example, if you are born under the Baobab Tree sign, you may find that you possess a natural strength and wisdom that helps you navigate life's challenges.
Practical applications of African astrology can be seen in everyday decisions, such as career choices, interpersonal relationships, and personal growth. By aligning your actions with the strengths and traits of your sign, you can achieve greater harmony and fulfillment.
Also, ancestral guidance gives you specific details about your current life situation. Communicating with your legacy allows you to dig deeper into the right decisions for you at present.
African astrology and modern life
In today's fast-paced world, integrating African astrology into modern life can offer numerous benefits. It provides a framework for self-reflection, helping you understand your strengths and areas for growth. Many successful individuals use astrological insight to make informed decisions in their personal and professional lives.
By embracing African astrology, you can tap into a wealth of knowledge that promotes balance and harmonious living. Whether it's through life or career path reports or periodic ancestor readings, these practices can deeply enhance your quality of life.
Unlock your destiny and embrace your heritage
African astrology is an enriching, potentially life-altering practice. By exploring your African zodiac sign, you can gain valuable knowledge that enhances your personal and cultural awareness. Embrace the wisdom of African astrology and discover how it can guide you towards a more balanced and fulfilling life. Ultimately, integrating African astrology into modern life can promote balance, self-reflection, and harmonious living.
Interested in gaining deeper insight into your life path through African astrology, explore Asanee 44’s African Astrology life and career path reading services.
Read more from Dr. Asanee Brogan
Dr. Asanee Brogan, Spiritual Coach
Drawing from her deep-rooted practice in the Ifá tradition and Haitian Vodou, Dr. Asanee develops multifaceted resources, enriching her clients' understanding of African spirituality. Her commitment to sharing her evolving expertise involves coaching, writing, teaching, and mentorship. She is the founder and CEO of Asanee 44 LLC, a platform dedicated to integrating individuals into African traditional religions.