Traditional Astrology for Today: An Introduction

by Benjamin N. Dykes

Traditional Astrology for Today introduces modern astrologers to the vibrant traditional revival currently underway. Ranging from philosophies of life to predictive techniques, a leading expert and prolific translator of older Latin works explains the usefulness and importance of traditional astrology.

Genres: Astrology, Spirituality, Occult

128 pages, Paperback

First published July 25, 2011

Reviews

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Many authors who write about traditional astrological techniques write for readers who have committed themselves to this approach. This is a book for those readers who haven't decided yet but are curious and want to know more. In the first part, Dykes begins with a short history of traditional astrology, followed by an explanation of differing philosophical approaches that lie behind both forms of astrology. In the second part of the book, Dykes explains how traditional astrological technique differs from the modern version. Some chapters cover familiar territory such as planets, signs, and houses, while highlighting important differences in traditional astrology. In other chapters, the author introduces concepts that may be partially or completely unfamiliar to modern astrologers: aversion, time lords, and a more complicated system of dignities. The book concludes with a brief case study showing these techniques in use and a chapter addressing common concerns of modern astrologers about traditional astrology ("Traditional astrology dwells on the negative and the bad."). Dykes also includes appendices with suggestions of books to read next and a glossary of traditional astrological terms. And he manages to do all of this in 130 pages and in an approachable, understandable style (!).

This is not a book for beginning astrologers. Dykes assumes that the reader has enough astrological knowledge to interpret a natal chart and uses that level of knowledge as a basis for his explanations of traditional techniques. Obviously he prefers traditional astrology, but the book doesn't have a heavy proselytizing tone to it. He has described enough about the techniques that intrigued readers will be able to try them out and see if they like them without having to commit to a heavy course of study—perfect for an introductory text. Even if readers decide not to pursue traditional astrology further, I think the philosophical explanations will help them be better grounded in modern astrological practice. This is an excellent first traditional astrology book for a modern astrologer.

[Saffron · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a book that you will need some astrological background in. The book is aimed at modern astrologers who are interested in the basic principles of ancient astrological practices.

It is a short, concise book that gives enough information to make an informed choice should you wish to take your studies further.

[Felipe · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very good introduction on Traditional Astrology aimed for both the beginner and those who've previously engaged in Modern Astrology and want to deepen their knowledge.

Following a necessary approach on how Astrology has established its roots and developed from the Hellenistic period until today, Ben Dykes enlightens us with a very straightforward explanation on how it has evolved along the centuries while connecting itself with different philosophical schools, such as the Aristotelian and Stoic ethical systems, as well as Hermeticism and Platonism, and has prioritized the relationship between planets, angles, dignities and degrees in regard to a rigorous and organized method that emphasizes objectivity instead of a simplistic and unrealistic orientation, such as that which generally motivates many modern astrologers.

In a few short chapters, he then sets the technical scenario in which an astrologer may search for meaning by conveying the best way to choose a house system and identifying rulerships, while pointing out what should be considered for an accurate chart reading.

Certainly, this book can make you realize how there's so much to be considered about the theme than what has been popularized by the mainstream and if you're hungry for more, it has plenty of bibliographical references that may serve you as well.

[Paris · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've liked it very much, but my first impression is that it's too summarized (only about one hundred pages). Obviously, there are some important gaps like the "Planetary Sect", however the structure of the book is superb. As an elementary introduction for traditional astrology works fine, and it has been a great help for me. Despite it's quite limited is not superficial. I've especially appreciated the chapters about history, philosophical thought, whole-sign houses, lots and profections, and the basic rules that it offer are very useful. It would be a great book of reference with a couple of hundreds of pages more. So, I recommend it for people who want same essential information about traditional astrology without going into much detail.

[Torres Catriel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Es la mejor introducción a la astrología tradicional que leí. Es un libro pensado para los que ya saben algo de astrología. Se diferencia de otros tradicionalistas en la precisión y la sencillez con que introduce conceptos filosoficos. Con este libro entendí mucho mejor de qué manera funcionan las dignidades esenciales. Al final da un ejemplo muy concizo, magistral, dónde explica un poco las profesiones.
Algunos le critican que es "demasiado introductorio" y que no trae mucha información. Pero es un libro muy profundo. Más que nada le sirve al que ya leyó mucho de astrología medieval, fuentes primarias, y necesita orden.

[Ilse · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is so well done! You can tell the author put so much passion into it and had a very genuine intention to help people understand traditional astrology concepts. It was so enlightening to see how someone who knows so much and has given so many translations to the community interprets a chart and defines some concepts that should be simple and yet we often fail to describe. This was an incredibly useful and interesting read. Loved it completely! It might be useful to point out, however, that if you are a complete beginner you might struggle to understand some parts, but not too much.

[C. J. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an excellent introduction to the concepts found in traditional astrology. However, I would only recommend this book if you have some astrological knowledge and are looking to add more traditional techniques and mindsets into your practice.

[Kimberly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing astrology resource! You’ll want this in your library for sure!

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very interesting foray into traditional astrology and its modern day implications. Before reading this book for a course, I never knew the distinction between traditional astrology and modern astrology (and all the practices that fall within the spectrum). After that course and this book, I am more inclined to lean toward the traditional practice over the modern practice. This book contains lots of historical information and support, which only aided in my understanding of the foundational history of astrology and its practice. A good resource for those interested in the topic.

[Ian Wong · Rating 4 out of 5]

An excellent and highly accessible introduction to the differences between traditional and modern astrology. As someone who barely knows much about the subject I actually managed to follow somewhat (although admittedly I have some knowledge of the Tarot and its astrological correspondences, but not much else in particular) and it has actually given me the confidence that perhaps I can get a grip on a subject that can on occasion be intimidating and almost forbidding in its inscrutability.

[C · Rating 4 out of 5]

Required reading for my Kepler 101 astrology class. This is quick, clear, and the chapters are a short. Anyone looking into traditional astrology should check this out for a first look, and especially skip to the frequently asked questions to get an idea of why Hellenistic astrology is making a comeback.

[Moog · Rating 4 out of 5]

Does what it says on the tin. A very accessible and well written traditional astrology primer. Recommended for astrologers who have some astrological knowledge and experience who would like to understand and use traditional concepts and techniques. An excellent book.

[Gabe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Easily the "beginner's book" for grasping what traditional astrological practice.

[Danny Brzozowski · Rating 3 out of 5]

A concise introduction to medieval astrology with a helpful resource list. This is a slim volume with limited content but it would function well as an outline of key points for future study.