Horoscopes and Astrology in Islam

Introduction

In recent years, topics like horoscopes, astrology, and star predictions have gained significant popularity. Especially with the influence of social media and the internet, people encounter daily horoscope readings and predictions, often accepting them seriously to guide their lives. However, in Islam, the belief that horoscopes and astrology shape people's lives is considered prohibited. Religious texts (Quran and Hadith) as well as philosophical and scientific perspectives refute the belief that horoscopes determine personality or predict the future.

Horoscopes and Astrology in the Quran and Hadith

While the Quran does not directly issue a decree regarding astrology or horoscopes, some verses related to the sky indicate that seeking guidance from celestial bodies is misguided.

Fussilat Surah, 37th Verse: "And He is the One who created for you from the sky, what is beneficial." This verse signifies that Allah’s power encompasses all creation, and seeking specific knowledge from stars or horoscopes to guide one’s life is inappropriate.

Jinn Surah, 9th Verse: "And we have adorned the lowest heaven with stars." The stars are a part of Allah's creation, but using them to predict the future or reveal knowledge about one's destiny is not encouraged.

Philosophical and Scientific Critique of Horoscopes and Astrology

The belief that horoscopes determine one's personality or fate is not only religiously flawed, but also scientifically and philosophically criticized.

Philosophical Perspective: Human personality and free will are inherently variable and multifaceted. People have their own free will, which is the key determinant of their life decisions. Horoscopes attempt to categorize individuals based on their birth dates, ignoring this personal freedom and growth potential.

Scientific Perspective: Astrology has no scientific validity. The movements of stars and planets have no direct effect on human lives. Furthermore, horoscopes are based on generalized and unverifiable statements that fail to account for the complexity of individual experiences, genetics, and environmental factors.

Conclusion

Horoscopes and astrology are invalid systems in both Islam and science. People should not shape their lives based on celestial bodies or birth dates. Islam promotes the idea that humans should use their free will and personal responsibility to shape their lives, not rely on external factors like astrology or horoscopes.