Of Soothsayers & Sorcerers

Believers of astrology and the predictions of soothsayers and sorcerers are many in our resplendent isle. We have seen the downfall of a nation where the Rulers were guided by such, especially a Sorceress’ predictions.

Soothsayers and sorcerers become wealth preying on peoples’ gullibility. We cannot fault them. What we need to do is evaluate our intelligence.

It is noteworthy that the majority who believe in all of this hocus pocus are the so-called rich who are interested only in their personal benefits and gains and wanting to become richer and more powerful. This boils down to pure greed and wanting, two things that Buddhists are not to yearn for.

Astrology originated in Mesopotamia (c. 3rd millennium bc) and spread to India. It developed its Western form in Greek civilization during the Hellenistic period. Astrology entered Islamic culture as part of the Greek tradition and was returned to European culture through Arabic learning during the Middle Ages. In Sri Lanka, a large community believe in it.

Is there any truth in Astrology? The scientific community has rejected astrology as having no explanatory power for describing the universe. Scientific testing has found no evidence to support the premises or effects outlined in astrological traditions. Where astrology has made confirmable predictions, it has been inaccurate. Yet, people want to believe that the predictions will happen. Charming and witchcraft are two other popular myths.

Sri Lankans who believe base all their day-to-day activities, marriages, launching of businesses etc., at auspicious times provided by an Astrologer they have consulted. I know of

a family who were fortunate to have inherited wealth through generations and who are now in the doldrums owing to being guided by astrology. From what I have been told, the Astrologer is now a rich man, whilst the family who consulted him 24x7 are now in the poor house with family problems.

Honest Psychics who have the gift to see the future convey their messages in the belief that they be considered and treated either as a guideline or precaution to get on with life. If Astrologers can be believed in, there should be no wars, poverty, illness and every misery we go through daily. Once born, the only thing we are all sure of is death and that no person with higher powers can prevent it from occurring.