"Celestial Signs" explores the universal human impulse to find divine messages in the cosmos. Across cultures and throughout history, celestial events like planetary alignments and stellar constellations have been interpreted as communications from a higher power. This book examines how these interpretations have influenced religious beliefs, social structures, and even political power.
For instance, the book delves into the role of the North Star in ancient Egyptian religion, and the significance of lunar cycles in Islam. The book takes a comparative approach, analyzing various religious traditions side-by-side to reveal common themes and unique expressions of celestial interpretation. It begins by laying a foundation in archaeoastronomy and comparative religion before exploring case studies ranging from ancient Mesopotamian astrology to the Star of Bethlehem in Christianity.
By drawing on ancient texts, archaeological findings, and ethnographic studies, "Celestial Signs" sheds light on the intricate relationship between human spirituality, scientific understanding, and the perceived influence of the cosmos. The book also considers how scientific advancements have, at times, challenged traditional religious interpretations of celestial phenomena.
