Astrology History:
2nd century B.C. - 4th century A.D.
Until the introduction of Buddhism in Tibet in the fourth century
A.D., the Bon religion forms the basis of Tibetan astrology.
Its doctrines are presented in a detailed system of categories
and sub-categories, two of which are astrology and medicine.
The Bon doctrines acknowledge the five elements of Wood, Fire,
Earth, Metal and Water, and use a system of astrological prediction
and divination similar to shamanism.
6th century A.D.
Tibetan King Namri Songtsen sends four of
Tibet's most brilliant young scholars to China to study astrology.
On their return, the four introduce invaluable information to
Tibetan astrology. However, there being no written language
of Tibet at the time, the information is only conveyed orally.
7th century A.D.
The fifth wife of Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo,
Kong Ju, an accomplished astrologer, introduces Chinese Classical
Elemental Astrology to Tibet.
8th century A.D.
Generally regarded as the pinnacle or "Golden
Age" in Tibetan medicine, astrology, and Dharma, each field
enjoys its highest patronage and development. In fact, the high
standards set by Tibetan scholars in this period inspire Tibetan
scholars for centuries to come.
Indian Sage Guru Padma Sambhava introduces the concept that
elements in their pure form are the basis of all life in the
universe, and that the same elements in their impure form are
poisonous to the body.
10th century A.D.
At the hands of weak leadership, there is
a decline in Tibetan power, and with it, a decline in Tibetan
astrology.
11th century A.D.
The Sri Kalachakra Tantra, which forms the
basis of modern Tibetan astrology, is translated from Sanskrit
into Tibetan. Its principles lead to the creation of the first
annual Tibetan almanac, which allows the user to determine the
precise day-to-day positions of the stars, planets and signs
of the zodiac.
17th century A.D.
Under the leadership of H.H the Fifth Dalai
Lama, Ngawang Lobsang Gyatso, Tibetan astronomy and astrology
rise to their pre-vious glory. His Holiness's regent, Desi Sangye
Gyatso, compiles a folio of Tibetan astrology which remains
in use today.
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