The Philosophy of Astrology by MANLY P. HALL | Part 1 of a Six-Part Series

In today’s episode we begin a six-part series that investigates the topic of astrology, which features me reading aloud and commenting upon a 6-chapter manuscript that Hall published in 1971 called The Philosophy of Astrology. This series follows the theme of our previous episodes in the “Monday P. Hall Mondays” series, which also considered the topic of astrology, viewing it from various angles. (Note: I’m now keeping a list of the Manly Hall Mondays episodes here). 

In this episode, we look at chapter one from Hall’s booklet, which is titled “Esoteric Astrology as a Philosophy Which Sets Forth Intellectual and Moral Relations.” Basically, it introduces the fundamentals of how esoteric philosophy approaches the subject of astrology.

In his teachings, Hall emphasizes Ptolemy’s geocentric mandala of the solar system as a visual metaphor of astrology’s core symbolism, with the image’s various components pertaining to the fundamental principles involved in (Western) astrological analysis. As we go through this chapter (and the series as a whole), keep this diagram handy as a reference tool. 

Note: This episode I am sharing openly on the podcast, but the rest of the episodes in this series will be part of my Manly Hall Mondays series for paid subscribers. Thanks for your support!

Table of Contents

1. Introduction & Overview (0:00 - 2:45)

Welcome and introduction to the Manly P. Hall series on the philosophy of astrology, explaining the booklet being discussed and its importance.

2. The Ancient Sciences & Esoteric Tradition (2:45 - 12:00)

Discussion of the five great ancient sciences (astrology, medicine, mathematics, music, architecture), their origins, and how they were protected by mystery schools before becoming profaned.

3. Geocentric vs. Heliocentric Systems (12:00 - 15:00)

Explanation of why the geocentric model is used in esoteric astrology—not as a physical diagram but as a psychological/spiritual mandala representing the “world” (complete nature of creation).

4. The Three-Part Structure: Spirit, Soul, Body (15:00 - 30:00)

Deep dive into the Ptolemaic geocentric model showing three zodiacs (Prima Mobile, intellectual sphere, firmament), seven planetary orbits, and four elements—representing how spiritual energy flows from stars through planets into matter.

5. Symbolism & Sacred Numbers (30:00 - 34:47)

Exploration of how this cosmic structure appears in various religious traditions (Christianity, Judaism, Hinduism, Islam) and the significance of sacred numbers (7, 10, 12, 13) in the planetary system.

Tabled of Contents:

1. Introduction & Overview (0:00 - 2:45)

2. The Ancient Sciences & Esoteric Tradition (2:45 - 12:00)

3. Geocentric vs. Heliocentric Systems (12:00 - 15:00)

4. The Three-Part Structure: Spirit, Soul, Body (15:00 - 30:00)

5. Symbolism & Sacred Numbers (30:00 - 34:47)