Ancient Egyptian zodiac's twelve birth signs in astrology

"Zodiac of Dendera" Courtesy of:
Karlagash Ruled by Secrecy at Flickr.com

Usually when speaking of astrology or the zodiac people think of the Chinese. However, the meaning of "horoscope" may technically be derived from an ancient Egyptian astrological system.

The Egyptians designed the Zodiac of Dendera, which was discovered on the ceiling of the Temple of Hathor in Dendera of Central Egypt. The Zodiac of Dendera depicts aspects of Nile Valley astronomy, astrology, agriculture and calendar making. It has two circles of figures in its design. The inner circle of figures move counter-clockwise like the stars, showing the astrological signs of the zodiac circling the North Pole (symbolized by the deity Anpu.)

The outer circle of figures uses the concept of "decans." The Egyptian calendar year was comprised of 36 ten-day weeks, each of which was called a decan. The total days of a year, then, created a circle (360 degrees). Likewise, the twelve figures outside of the circle represent 12 months of the year and their arms meant the 24 hours of the day.

Based on this design, the 12 signs of the Egyptian zodiac were created to regulate agriculture. Each sign governed three decans (30 days) and was called one of "the watchers of the hours." Since the word "hour" derives from the god Horus, the signs of the Egyptian zodiac were also considered "the watchers of Horus" -- thus the origin of the word "HOROSCOPE".

The 12 Egyptian Birth Signs are thus based on different gods and being born within a particular sign influences a person's character. This, too, corresponds with the traditional astrological import like the Chinese zodiac describes. The similarities between the two are quite amazing, yet the differences deserve more exploration. Which sign of the Egyptian Zodiac are you?

For more info:  Where to buy Egyptian Birth Sign jewelry