What Does the Bible Say About Astrology?

Astrology is a topic that has fascinated people for thousands of years. From ancient Babylon to today’s horoscopes, the stars have long been seen as tools for insight and prediction. But what happens when we look at astrology through a biblical lens? Does the Bible support or reject the practice of reading the stars? Let’s explore what Scripture really says about astrology—and how believers have interpreted it across centuries.

Ancient Wisdom or Forbidden Practice?

Astrology was a common practice in many ancient cultures, especially in Babylon, Egypt, and Greece. People believed the movements of the stars and planets influenced human destiny. Kings and rulers often consulted astrologers before making big decisions.

The Bible, however, offers a different message.

In Deuteronomy 18:10–12, we read:

“Let no one be found among you who… practices divination or sorcery, interprets omens, engages in witchcraft… Anyone who does these things is detestable to the Lord.”

This passage groups astrology with forbidden practices like sorcery and divination—activities that are discouraged or outright condemned in many parts of Scripture.

But does this mean that astrology is entirely evil, or is there more nuance?

God Created the Stars—for Signs?

Interestingly, the Bible also acknowledges that the stars were created for signs and seasons. In Genesis 1:14, we find:

“Let there be lights in the vault of the sky to separate the day from the night, and let them serve as signs to mark sacred times, and days and years.”

This suggests that heavenly bodies do serve a purpose beyond light and beauty. They mark time and play a role in God’s cosmic design. So, the idea that the stars have meaning is not foreign to the Bible.

However, the line seems to be drawn at using them to predict the future or control fate—something the biblical prophets consistently warned against.

The Story of the Magi: A Divine Exception?

One of the most famous biblical stories involving astrology is the visit of the wise men (Magi) to the baby Jesus in the Gospel of Matthew. The Magi were likely astrologers or astronomers from the East who followed a star to find the Messiah.

“We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” (Matthew 2:2)

Does this mean God used astrology to guide them?

Some scholars believe that God used a sign in the sky—not astrology itself—to lead the Magi. In this view, the star was not part of a horoscope, but rather a miraculous sign that happened to be seen by people trained to notice such things.

Still, the story shows that God can work through cosmic signs, even if He does not encourage us to place our trust in them.

Warnings from the Prophets

Several Old Testament prophets spoke against the use of astrology and celestial divination. For example, Isaiah 47:13–14 contains a strong warning to Babylon:

“Let now the astrologers, the stargazers… stand up and save you from what shall come upon you… they shall be as stubble; the fire shall burn them.”

Here, astrology is mocked as powerless in the face of God’s judgment. The message is clear: do not depend on the stars—depend on God.

Likewise, in Jeremiah 10:2, the prophet says:

“Do not learn the ways of the nations or be terrified by signs in the heavens, though the nations are terrified by them.”

Again, we see the warning not to fear or follow astrological signs, as doing so shows a lack of trust in God’s sovereignty.

Free Will, Faith, and Divine Guidance

One of the Bible’s core teachings is that God desires a personal relationship with each person. This relationship is built on faith, prayer, and trust—not on reading charts or planets to determine one’s future.

While astrology suggests that our lives are shaped by the positions of the planets at birth, Scripture teaches that we are shaped by God’s hands and called to seek His will above all else.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” (Proverbs 3:5)

In this context, astrology may be seen as a distraction from deeper spiritual truth—something that tempts us to seek answers outside of our relationship with God.

So, Is Astrology Evil?

The Bible does not use the word “astrology” the way we do today. But when it speaks of star worship, divination, and fortune-telling, the tone is clear: these practices are not in line with faith in God.

However, many people today use astrology not as a form of worship or control, but as a tool for self-reflection and personal insight. This raises deeper spiritual questions: Are we using astrology to replace divine guidance? Or are we simply curious about the symbolism of the cosmos?

Ultimately, the Bible invites us to seek truth and wisdom through God, not through stars. It encourages humility, trust, and discernment.

What Does the Bible Say About Astrology?

So, what does the Bible say about astrology?

It acknowledges that the stars are part of God’s creation and can serve as signs—but warns against trusting them for direction, power, or control. The message of Scripture is clear: look to God, not the heavens, for your guidance and future.

If you’re someone drawn to astrology, consider exploring what lies beneath your curiosity. Is it a desire for understanding? For comfort? For connection?

These are all deeply human needs—but Scripture offers a profound and lasting way to meet them: through prayer, wisdom, and a living relationship with the Creator of the stars themselves.