A History of Astrology, Divination and Prophecy

Discover the spellbinding history of astrology and divination across the world.

A History of Astrology, Divination and Prophecy traces the journey of astrology from its roots in the 3rd century BCE, when ancient Mesopotamians studied celestial bodies with the aim of predicting the future, through its development into the distinct branches of Eastern astrology, Indian (Vedic) astrology, and the Western astrology that we know today.

Learn about the numerous techniques that have been devised over the centuries to predict the future – from the use of yarrow stalks of the I Ching over 2,500 years ago to methods still practised today, such as Tarot, crystals, palmistry, and numerology. Discover the stories of influential and learned seers, from the oracles of Ancient Greece to the 16th-century French philosopher and mystic Nostradamus, who is said to have predicted the death of Queen Elizabeth II, and explore how our fear of and fascination with astrology, divination, prediction, and prophecy have been depicted in art and literature.

Comprehensive, accessible, and beautifully illustrated, A History of Astrology, Divination and Prophecy will intrigue and inspire you in equal measure, and tell you everything you need to know about these rich and fascinating histories.

Discover the mystical history of astrology and divination across the world in this stunningly illustrated title. A History of Astrology, Divination and Prophecy traces the journey of astrology from its roots in the 3rd century BCE, when ancient Mesopotamians studied celestial bodies with the aim of predicting the future, through its development into the distinct branches of Eastern astrology, Indian (Vedic) astrology, and Western astrology that we know today. Discover the stories of influential and learned seers, from the oracles of Ancient Greece to the 16th-century French philosopher and mystic Nostradamus. And explore how our fear of and fascination with astrology, divination, prediction, and prophecy have been depicted in art and literature. In this enchanting book, you will find:A complete global history of the subject – from Feng shui and necromancy to the Age of Aquarius and astrocartographyMore than 350 stunning full-colour images combined with engaging and accessible text, with fascinating feature boxes with additional information and biographies of key figuresSimple “how-to” instructions on the best known forms of divination – from how to read rune stones and the Tarot, to palmistry, numerology, and using the I ChingThe most comprehensive illustrated history of astrology ever produced, A History of Astrology, Divination and Prophecy will intrigue and inspire you in equal measure – whether you are completely new to the subject, or already a practitioner. The Esoteric Histories seriesWith global sales of more than 300,000 copies, DK’s Esoteric Histories explore the rich traditions of mystical and mysterious subjects – from witchcraft to the world of the unexplained – weaving together religion, mythology, folklore, and the paranormal with art, culture, and science. Other titles in the series include A History of Magic, Witchcraft and the Occult; A History of Ghosts, Spirits and the Supernatural; and A History of Horror, Fear and the Uncanny.

• | Author: DK
• | Publisher: Dorling Kindersley Ltd
• | Publication Date: Aug 07, 2025
• | Number of Pages:
• | Language:
• | Binding: Hardback
• | ISBN-13: 9780241682807
• | ISBN-10: 0241682800