Knowing the History of Chinese Astrology and the Calculation of Time

For centuries, astrology has been an important part of Chinese culture and philosophy. Its influence can be seen in traditional Chinese folklore and mythology, as well as in the cultures and practices of the Chinese people. Astrology, or the study of the movements and positions of celestial bodies in relation to events on Earth, has been used in China for thousands of years to help people make sense of their lives and the world around them.

The origins of Chinese astrology go back to the earliest recorded history. It is believed that the first astronomical calendar in China dates back to the third millennium BCE, and is thought to have been developed from observations of the movements of the sun and moon, along with the five planets visible to the naked eye.
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Over the centuries, the Chinese developed a complex system for the calculation of time and tracking of the planets, and began to use this knowledge to understand their place in the universe and to interpret the influence of the stars and planets on human affairs. The two main types of astrology practiced in China were Chinese astrology and Chinese astrological divination.
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Chinese astrology is based on the Chinese lunar calendar, which follows the twelve-year cycle of the Chinese Lunar New Year. This calendar is based on a combination of solar and lunar cycles, and is divided into twelve sections that represent the twelve different animal signs. People born in a certain year are believed to be influenced by the characteristics of their year's animal sign, and their fortunes and challenges in life are thought to be determined by the influences of this star, sign and its associated element: wood, fire, earth, metal, or water.

Chinese astrological divination, or fortune-telling using astrological readings, also employs the Chinese lunar calendar as a guide. By using the positions of the planets and stars and interpreting their symbolism, various forms of divination such as numerology, face-reading, and palmistry, are commonly used to predict the future and provide advice.

Today, astrology is still an important part of Chinese culture, and there are many schools of thought that practice different methods and approaches. In addition to astrology being used as a guide for fortune-telling, it has become increasingly popular as a tool for psychological counseling, and as a means of exploring Chinese folklore and culture.

So whether it's through readings and divination, or understanding Chinese folklore and mythology; understanding the history of Chinese astrology and its calculation of time can be a fascinating way to gain insight into the unique culture, history and way of life that the Chinese have been practicing for thousands of years.