Astrology has long been a topic of intrigue, but can it shed light on the birth and death dates of Jesus? Before we dive into this historical investigation, let’s address the concerns some may have about astrology’s place in biblical and theological studies.
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The Bible and Astrology: The Magi
Astrology is often criticized as pagan divination, which the Bible condemns. However, the biblical worldview doesn’t draw a clear distinction between astrology and astronomy. In fact, the New Testament seems to acknowledge astrology in certain instances, such as Matthew’s nativity account.
The magi mentioned in Matthew were astrologers, not kings. These wise men from the East were well-known in both Greek history and Jewish philosophy. They used astrology to read the stars and predict significant events.
In the birth narrative, Matthew juxtaposes an astronomical omen with a biblical prophecy. The magi, guided by a “rising star,” knew the exact time of Jesus’ birth. This motif highlights Christ’s universal sovereignty, confirmed by both astrologers and prophets.
While the New Testament doesn’t directly discuss Jesus’ horoscope, it provides enough information to infer his birth and death dates.
The Star of Bethlehem: Jesus’ Birth Date
The star of Bethlehem marked the birth of Jesus, and historical research offers two possible birth dates. The traditional date of December 25 is likely non-historical, chosen to align with the pagan winter solstice festival.
One proposal suggests that the star of Bethlehem was a conjunction of Saturn, Jupiter, and Mars, occurring in 7 BCE around August 22 or September 14-15. This alignment in the sign of Pisces, opposing the Virgo sun, holds significance as Virgo represents the virgin. The connection between Saturn and Jupiter also aligns with Christian Father-Son imagery.
Another proposal suggests that the star of Bethlehem was a comet. Ancient sources describe comets behaving similarly to what Matthew recounts. Chinese records even mention a comet around 5 BCE between March 9 and May 4.
Lunar Eclipse: The Day of Death
Astronomical reasoning can also help determine Jesus’ death date. Luke mentions that the sunlight “failed,” indicating an eclipse. A partial lunar eclipse occurred on April 3, 33 CE, and may be the eclipse referred to.
However, many believe Jesus’ crucifixion to have occurred in 29 CE, as ancient authorities and the New Testament itself date it to the 15th year of the reign of Tiberius. The most likely date for the crucifixion might be March 18 at 3 pm.
New Testament Evidence for Birth and Death Dates
According to the New Testament, Jesus’ birth date must be earlier than 4 BCE because it happened during the reign of King Herod. His ministry started in his thirties and lasted for three or four years.
The New Testament also provides clues about the crucifixion date. Jesus was crucified under the Roman governor Pontius Pilate during the 15th year of Tiberius’ reign, which points to 29 CE. The 14th-15th of the Jewish lunar month Nisan falls on either April 15 or March 18, with the latter being more likely.
Combining historical and astronomical data, Jesus may have been born in the spring of 5 BCE (March-May) or late summer of 7 BCE (August-September). His death could have occurred on March 18, 29 CE, or possibly April 3, 33 CE.
The Significance of Jesus’ Horoscope
These alternative horoscopes for Jesus, whether under the sign of Aries/Taurus or Virgo, bear implications for his historical destiny. The crucifixion date of March 18, 29 CE (or April 3, 33 CE) can be seen as a momentous event.
Astrology, like other areas of mundane knowledge, contributes to our understanding of human history. While Jesus’ historical significance is essential, it’s important not to overshadow God’s love and the Holy Spirit that radiate through Jesus Christ.
Jesus Christ is both a vessel that illuminates our lives and a doorway to something greater.
Bibliography:
- Leo Depuydt, “The Date of Death of Jesus of Nazareth,” Journal of the American Oriental Society, 122.3 (Jul. – Sep., 2002) 466-480.
- Patrice Guinard, “L’étoile de Bethléem (Un scénario organisé par des astrologues),” http://cura.free.fr/16christ.html
- James H. Holden, “Early Horoscopes of Jesus,” http://cura.free.fr/xxv/24hold2.html
- Colin J. Humphreys, “The Star of Bethlehem, A Comet in 5 BC, and the Date of the Birth of Christ,” Q Jl R. astr. Soc. (1991) 32, 389-407.
- Bradley S. Schaefer, “Lunar Visibility and the Crucifixion,” Q Jl R. astr. Soc. (1990) 31, 53-67
- A. Wright, “On the Date of the Crucifixion,” The Biblical World (1893) 2.4, 275-282.