Is astrology demonic?
Austin Blunt
Astrology has been enjoying a comeback in recent years. The ancient art of looking to the stars and planets to determine human destiny has been practiced for thousands of years. Horoscopes, zodiac signs, and tarot cards have seen a resurgence in popularity as people seek to make sense of their lives and their future.
Is this modern fascination with astrology just harmless fun found on social media quizzes? Or is there something more sinister at work behind the scenes? What does it even mean for something to be “demonic?”
The problem with astrology is that it seeks to replace the role only God can fill in our lives. At best, it is a silly distraction from the Lord and His purpose for us. At worst, it serves as an introduction to spiritual forces of evil who seek to destroy you.
Astrology in the Bible
Because astrology has been around for such a long time, the Bible has a lot to say about it. It is a form of divination strictly forbidden in Deuteronomy 18:10-14. The Lord condemns the astrologers of Babylon to judgment through the prophet Isaiah (Isaiah 47:13-14). And Daniel puts these professional astrologers to shame when he interprets the king’s dream through his reliance on God (Daniel 2:27-28).
But God does not just triumph over astrology. He actually used astrology to bring the good news of Jesus! In Matthew’s account of the birth of Jesus, he tells the story of a group of “magi,” or “wise men,” who came from the east. These wise men were descendants of the ancient astrology traditions and used the stars to determine that a great king had been born.
“Wise men from the east came to Jerusalem, saying, ‘Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.’” - Matthew 2:1-2
God used a form of divination associated with cosmic forces to reveal that the good news of Jesus is for everyone everywhere.
Stand Firm Against the Schemes of the Devil
The power of the Holy Spirit is greater than any imitation of power a counterfeit spirit can muster. This is why the Bible instructs us to “be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might” (Ephesians 6:10). As disciples of Jesus, we are called to be aware of the schemes of Satan and his minions, but we do not need to fear them.
We should not be ignorant of the plans of the evil one and pretend he does not exist. Scripture warns us that he disguises himself as an angel of light (2 Corinthians 11:14). He would love nothing more than to distract you from the life that God has for you and lure you into a life of fear and weakness.
But fortunately for us, we are not alone in this fight. We have the armor of truth, righteousness, and faith to stand against his attacks. We have weapons like the word of God and prayer to keep in step with the Spirit who intercedes on our behalf. We are called to trust in the Lord, and the Lord alone, to know our place in the universe and what our future holds.