Podcast episodes – The Secret History of Western Esotericism Podcast (SHWEP) Chris Brennan on Hellenistic Astrology
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Aug 19, 2018 
Chris Brennan, Hellenistic astrologer and historian, discusses the relationship between Hellenistic astrology and natal astrology, the application of astrology beyond individuals, the role of the king and aspects in Hellenistic astrology, the significance of the houses and planetary joys, the distinction between daytime and nighttime planets, Pythagorean principles in astrology, ancient Egyptian astrology, and beliefs and concepts in astrology.
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How Baghdad Got An Astrological Birthday
- Brennan recounts Baghdad's 8th-century refounding where a Caliph commissioned astrologers to choose an auspicious foundational chart.
- That preserved chart, cited by al-Biruni, served as Baghdad's natal horoscope for the city.
Planetary Joys And Mercury's Wild Card Role
- Planetary joys assign certain planets to houses (Moon to 3rd, Sun to 9th, Venus to 5th, Jupiter to 11th, Mercury to 1st) and shape interpretation.
- Brennan highlights Mercury's dual/ambiguous role and deliberate placement in the first house as mediator.
When Modern Western Astrology Took Shape
- Hellenistic astrology's defining system of planets, signs, aspects, and houses coalesced around the 1st century BCE, forming the basis of later Western astrology.
- Brennan argues earlier Mesopotamian/Egyptian practices lacked core features like aspects and houses.