Astro Psychology

by Karen M. Hamaker-Zondag

Astrology is an ancient art, but its truths are timeless. The validity of its claims are slowly being realized through the application of contemporary disciplines. This book is part of that process and examines the traditional wisdom of astrology in the light of Jungian psychology, revealing the horoscope as an accurate picture of our psychic structure and a key to self-knowledge and personal growth. Beginning with a lucid analysis of Jung's terminology - including archetypes, the collective unconscious and the theory of synchronicity - Karen Hamaker-Zondag goes on to explore in depth the striking correspondence between Jung's theory of psychological types and the traditional astrological elements. Astro-Psychology is an important contribution to astrological studies, a brilliant synthesis that establishes the continuing relevance of astrology to the twentieth century.

Genres: Astrology, Psychology, Spirituality, Nonfiction, Philosophy, Adult

Paperback

First published January 1, 1978

Reviews

[Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

Covering a good deal of base-level territory, without going into too much detail in any one direction, Karen Hamaker-Zondag does an excellent job of putting Astrology into the Jungian framework.

Here's an overview of what she covers:
-the astronomical content of Astrology's approach
-basic Jungian theory
-the triplicities and quadruplicities
-the houses
-the signs
-the planets
-how planetary transits and progressions define and reveal the full course of life

I would say that this is not the best book for beginners in Astrology, for a number of reasons. First, there are certain things she assumes about the reader's knowledge of Astrology which would otherwise be best explained to the total beginner. Secondly, there aren't many examples in the book that further elaborate her points, e.g. Is it really clear what Mercury in Sagittarius might look like based on a description of Mercury and Sagittarius? Or how about Jupiter in the fourth house? I'm sure she has books covering those things, I imagine, so it might be helpful to purchase them both for your studies. Lastly, unless someone is already well-acquainted with Jungian psychology, it could feel like an information overload, attempting to understand Astrology and Jung simultaneously. Good luck, if that's you!

I recommend this for someone experienced in Jungian psychology and Astrology already, and I especially think the last chapter, chapter eight, was of particular value. It enabled me to understand some of the wisdom of the aging process and pointed me toward further study of progressions and transits to the natal chart, particularly of Saturn, Uranus, Neptune and the progressed Moon. I'm looking forward to reading more books of hers in the future.

(This book is listed on MISPA's recommended reading list, for those who are interested).

[Tito Abeleda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book. As an admirer of Carl Jung, this was a most helpful adjunct to my graduate studies of Jung and connecting it with astrology.

[Nelleke Breedveld · Rating 3 out of 5]

Het is meer een naslagwerk. Interessant maar niet om zomaar te lezen; je moet het meer gelijk in praktijk brengen.

[Georgia Ch · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book was great but the greek translation was atrocious. I had to read it in english. Seriously, this greek version shouldn't be on the market.