Astrology, Witchcraft, and Spiritism roots in Babylon and Egypt

Astrology, witchcraft, and spiritism have deep historical roots, with Babylon and Egypt playing central roles in their development. Here’s a more detailed look at the origins, spread, and continued influence of these practices:

1. Origins in Babylon

Babylon is widely considered the birthplace of astrology and many occult practices. The Babylonians were among the first to systematically study the stars and celestial movements, believing them to influence earthly events.

• Astrology in Babylon:

  • The Babylonians developed the Zodiac system, dividing the sky into twelve sections, each associated with a constellation.
  • They believed planetary movements affected human destinies, leading to the practice of horoscopes.
  • Daniel 2:2 mentions "magicians, enchanters, sorcerers, and astrologers" in King Nebuchadnezzar’s court, showing the prominence of these practices.

• Occult Practices in Babylon:

  • Babylonian priests practiced divination using liver omens (haruspicy), casting lots, and interpreting dreams.
  • The Tower of Babel (Genesis 11:1-9) symbolized humanity’s attempt to reach the heavens, which some believe was an early sign of astrological and occult aspirations.

2. Egyptian Influence and Expansion

Egypt further developed occult knowledge, merging Babylonian astrology with its own spiritual beliefs. Egyptian priests acted as mediators between the gods and people, using astrology, magic, and spiritism.

• Witchcraft and Magic in Egypt:

  • The magicians of Pharaoh (Exodus 7:11-12) used enchantments to replicate some of Moses' miracles.
  • Egyptians practiced necromancy (contacting the dead) and spell-casting, preserved in texts like the Book of the Dead.

• Astrology and the Stars:

  • Egyptian pyramids were aligned with celestial bodies, indicating a deep belief in astral influence.
  • The Greeks later absorbed Egyptian astrology, refining it into what became Western astrology.

3. Spread to Other Cultures

As civilizations interacted through trade and conquest, Babylonian and Egyptian astrology spread widely:

• Persia & Greece: The Magi (wise men from the East, Matthew 2:1-2) were astrologers influenced by Babylonian traditions. Greek philosophers like Plato and Ptolemy further developed astrological theories.
• Rome: Roman emperors consulted astrologers and oracles. Astrology became formalized in Roman religious practices.
• India & the East: Vedic astrology in India shares similarities with Babylonian astrology, and Hinduism incorporates spiritism and divination.
• China: Chinese astrology developed independently but shares the same core belief in celestial influence on human fate.

4. The Bible’s Stance Against These Practices

Throughout Scripture, God warns against these practices, associating them with pagan nations and rebellion against Him:

• Isaiah 47:12-14 warns Babylon about its reliance on sorcery and astrology:
  "Keep on, then, with your magic spells and with your many sorceries... Surely they are like stubble; the fire will burn them up."
• Ezekiel 8:14-16 describes Israelites adopting Babylonian sun worship, angering God.
• Revelation 17:5 refers to Babylon as "the mother of harlots and of the abominations of the earth," symbolizing its spiritual corruption.

5. New Age, Modern Astrology, and Spiritism

Today, astrology, witchcraft, and spiritism persist in various forms:

• New Age Movement: A blend of Eastern mysticism, astrology, and occult practices, promoting spiritual enlightenment apart from God.
• Western Astrology: Still widely practiced through horoscopes, tarot cards, and psychic readings.
• Hindu & Buddhist Practices: Astrology, spirit communication, and reincarnation beliefs remain central.
• Occult & Witchcraft Revival: Movements like Wicca and Satanism incorporate ancient Babylonian and Egyptian practices.

Conclusion

Babylon set the foundation for astrology, witchcraft, and spiritism, which spread through Egypt, Persia, Greece, and beyond. Though these practices persist today, the Bible consistently condemns them as deceptive and contrary to faith in God (Deuteronomy 18:9-12, Isaiah 8:19). Christians are called to seek wisdom from God alone (James 1:5) and reject anything that draws them away from Him (Colossians 2:8).