Kenneth D. Miller

A World Thoroughly Enchanted: The Rise of Hinduism & The Rise of Astrology

Abstract

Hinduism is perhaps the last living example of a religion and a way of life that has intimately integrated celestial bodies, both stars and planets, into fundamental aspects of worship, temple organization, and social utility. I will argue this did not occur in a vacuum, and will strive to demonstrate how the rise of Hinduism from the earlier Brahmanism was helped by and in turn helped the acceptance of horoscopic astrology and stellar worship by the general population.

My paper will address the interdependent rise of Samkhya philosophy, the doctrine of personal karma, and the acceptance of horoscopic astrology, with special attention to how horoscopic astrology became embedded within the world view of the common Hindu. By examining accepted religious texts, classic astrology texts, and temple construction/art spanning about 1500-2000 years, I will show previously unelucidated symbioc connections between religious ideology, astrological practice, and worship. In conclusion, I will make a case for the mutually dependent developments of astrology and Hindu religious beliefs and practices, and show how their relationship enhances the expression of each, which continues to be actualized in modern times.

Biography

Kenneth D. Miller, M.A. (History of Astrology), is a professional Indian (Vedic) astrologer, holding certifications from both the American College of Vedic Astrology and the Council of Vedic Astrology. He is a Fellow of the Institute of Vedic Astrology (India) and received the title of Jyotish Medhashri from the Indian Council for Astrological Sciences. He recently finished writing a commentary for a new translation of the Greek text by Anonymous of 379: On The Bright Fixed Stars, to be published in late 2016.