What Are the Astrological Ages?

The term 'Age' is used in history and mythology to describe a period of time marked by specific characteristics. People talk, for instance, of the 'Golden Age', the 'Stone Age' and the 'Middle Ages'. In astrological terms, this is the Age of Aquarius but what does this actually mean?

Aquarius is the eleventh sign of the zodiac. Its symbol is a man pouring water from a vessel. It is a sign associated with new ideas, inventions and brotherhood.

World Ages ~

There are different types of Ages so what is a World Age? In order to maintain its relative position in space, the Earth wobbles slightly on its axis. This action means that at the end of its annual orbit around the Sun, the Earth actually returns to a slightly different point in space. This is a very slow, backward-moving process. It takes about 2,000 years for the World to travel through each sign. These periods of time are what astrologers call 'World Ages'. Currently, the Earth is in the Age of Aquarius. These World Ages contain patterns of development which are in accord with man's evolution. To illustrate this further, here's a brief description of what has gone before:

Age of Leo ~

(10,000 - 8,000 BC)

The sign of Leo is ruled by the Sun and as the Ice Age ended, the Sun warmed the Earth, playing an important part in man's evolution. The Sun represents life, creativity and survival.

Age of Cancer ~

(8,000 - 6,000 BC)

Cancer is the fourth sign, related to home and family. In this World Age, men began building homes in order to protect themselves and their families from the dangers of the world around them.

Age of Gemini ~

(6,000 - 4,000 BC)

Gemini, ruled by the planet Mercury is the sign of communication. In this World Age, men travelled further afield to trade their wares. Travel and communication became an important feature of human interaction.

Age of Taurus ~

(4,000 - 2,000 BC)

Taurus is an Earth sign, representing nature and the need for security. During this World Age, man began to work the soil, respecting and worshipping the start of each new season. The Egyptians built a vast agricultural empire and ancient man began to settle into communities. The Taurean appreciation of luxury can balso be seen in the temples and pyramids of ancient Egypt.

Age of Aries

(2,000 BC - 0 AD) ~

Aries is ruled by Mars, the God of War, and as man developed a sense of individuality, a sense of 'belonging' to a tribe or nation, he felt the need to protect his particular empire through violence and war.

Age of Pisces ~

(0 - 2,000AD)

In the last 2,000 years, the Age of Pisces, man became aware of a more spiritual level of existence. This Age also coincided with the birth of Jesus and the rising tide of religious activity which was to sweep the world. And now, the world is entering the Age of Aquarius.