Buddhist Astrology: Chart Interpretation from a Buddhist Perspective
ISBN 978-1-896559-19-3 paperback
Revised 2013 edition
264 pages, print, 6 x 9 inches, 3 astrological charts, Glossary
Buddhism, Buddhist Psychology, Astrology
BUDDHIST ASTROLOGY: Chart Interpretation from a Buddhist Perspective
By Jhampa Shaneman & Jan V. AngelPreface by HH the Dalai Lama
Throughout history, astrology was considered a scholarly tradition, relied upon by world leaders, philosophers and spiritual teachers to guide civilizations in all areas of life. Historically, astrology was accepted in political and academic contexts, and was connected with astronomy, alchemy, meteorology and medicine. Although since the end of the 17th century, science called astrology into question, many scholars are now reviving its role in shaping our understanding of the world.
Buddhist Astrology is a form of archetypal astrology that helps us understand the role of the cosmic cycles in relation to our understanding and identification with Buddhist philosophy and mythology. It helps us understand the role of interdependence, a primary Buddhist belief, with our personal genetics, family history, education, and other social and cultural influences. Buddhist Astrology recognizes that there is a critical need to balance the physical world around us with conditions we were born into, from a karmic or cosmic perspective. The interdependence of these factors makes us able to live in a world full of choices while honoring the basic dynamic trends pulling us in one direction or another.
REVIEWS
People who use astrology on a regular basis may derive beneficial inspirationfrom the Buddhist practices of mindfulness, compassion, and wisdom as they make their decisions. Indeed, I believe compassion and wisdom are not merely useful, but necessary in all aspects of our day-to-day life.
—His Holiness the XIVth Dalai Lama [from the book’s preface]
I have so enjoyed this book! The author gives a clear description of basic Buddhist philosophy in the first five chapters, including an inspired interpretation of a natal chart for the Buddha.—Ann Redwood
I really enjoyed this book and felt that I learned practical applications from it to use in my own attitude towards self, others and understanding samsara.—Lura McCallum
—Robert Thurman, PhD, Buddhist Scholar, Columbia University, President of Tibet House in New York, NY.
ABOUT THE AUTHORS
Jhampa Shaneman was one of the first Western Buddhist monks (1971) in the Tibetan tradition of Mahayana Buddhism. Jhampa’s astrology work is spiced with humorous and fascinating anecdotes of his experiences of transforming a western mind to grip the Buddhist perspective. Jhampa has been offering astrological advice on western charts for over 30 years. He uses Buddhist wisdom and meditation practices as supportive aids to understanding astrological influences. www.buddhistastrology.com
Jan Angel has been a professional astrologer since 1998. She emphasizes the chart as a powerful pointer along the way of each individual’s spiritual journey. She has a background in meditation, yoga and polarity therapy, and she is an avid organic gardener. Jan teaches Montessori for children 3-6 years of age and also offers astrology for parents interested in gaining insight into their child’s unique learning style.
