The Mazzaroth

The Mazzaroth is an ancient Hebrew term for the Zodiac, which is a band of constellations that circle the sky. Each constellation has its own meaning and symbolism, and is associated with a certain time of the year. The study of the Zodiac has been a part of human history for thousands of years, and has been used for everything from navigation to astrology.

History of the Mazzaroth

The history of the Mazzaroth dates back to ancient times. The Babylonians were one of the first civilizations to study the Zodiac, and they used it for both astronomy and astrology. The Greeks later adopted the Babylonian Zodiac and gave the constellations their names and myths.

The Hebrews also studied the Zodiac, and they called it the Mazzaroth. The Mazzaroth is mentioned in the Bible, specifically in the Book of Job and in the Book of Isaiah. The Hebrews used the Mazzaroth as a tool for understanding the divine plan of God, and saw the constellations as a representation of the 12 tribes of Israel.

The 12 Signs of the Mazzaroth

The Mazzaroth is divided into 12 signs, each of which is associated with a specific time of the year. Here are the 12 signs of the Mazzaroth:

• Aries (March 21 - April 19)
• Taurus (April 20 - May 20)
• Gemini (May 21 - June 20)
• Cancer (June 21 - July 22)
• Leo (July 23 - August 22)
• Virgo (August 23 - September 22)
• Libra (September 23 - October 22)
• Scorpio (October 23 - November 21)
• Sagittarius (November 22 - December 21)
• Capricorn (December 22 - January 19)
• Aquarius (January 20 - February 18)
• Pisces (February 19 - March 20)

Meaning and Symbolism of the Signs

Each sign of the Mazzaroth has its own meaning and symbolism, which has been passed down through history. Here are some of the meanings and symbols associated with each sign:

The Mazzaroth: Zodiac Signs

Virgo



The Mazzaroth is an ancient Hebrew term for the zodiac, and Virgo is one of the 12 signs of the zodiac in this tradition. In the Mazzaroth, Virgo is associated with the biblical figure of Mary, the mother of Jesus. The constellation of Virgo is depicted as a woman holding a sheaf of wheat, which is a symbol of the harvest season. In the Mazzaroth, Virgo is often associated with fertility, abundance, and harvest. People born under this sign are said to possess qualities such as purity, humility, and practicality. They are often described as being hardworking, detail-oriented, and analytical, with a strong sense of duty and responsibility. Virgos are thought to be adept at managing resources, both material and emotional, and are often valued for their organizational skills and attention to detail.

Libra



Libra is the seventh astrological sign and is represented by the scales. The name "Libra" comes from the Latin word for scales or balance, and the symbol of the scales represents justice, harmony, and balance. In the Mazzaroth, which is a Hebrew word referring to the twelve constellations of the zodiac, Libra is known as Moznayim or "the scales." In Jewish tradition, Moznayim is associated with the month of Tishrei, which is the first month of the Jewish civil year and the month of the High Holy Days. In the Mazzaroth, the constellation of Libra represents the scales of justice that weigh the deeds of the living and the dead. It is a time of judgment and atonement, and the season of the harvest. Moznayim is believed to be a time when God judges the people and determines their fate for the coming year, so it is a time for repentance and forgiveness. Overall, Libra and Moznayim represent balance, harmony, and justice, and the need for individuals to weigh their actions and strive for righteousness in all their endeavors.

Scorpio



Scorpio is often depicted as a scorpion with a curled tail, ready to strike. The constellation is located between Libra and Sagittarius and is one of the brightest and most easily recognizable constellations in the sky. In the Mazzaroth, Scorpio is often associated with the story of the giant scorpion that was sent to kill the hero Orion, who was later placed in the sky as a constellation. Scorpio is also sometimes associated with the story of the Garden of Eden and the serpent that tempted Eve, representing the darker aspects of human nature and the temptation to sin.

Sagittarius



Sagittarius is represented by a centaur with a bow and arrow. The centaur is half-man and half-horse, symbolizing the duality of Sagittarius as both a physical and spiritual creature. The bow and arrow represent Sagittarius' archer-like nature and their pursuit of truth and knowledge. From a Christian perspective, Sagittarius can be seen as a reminder of the importance of pursuing truth and righteousness. The bow and arrow can also be interpreted as a symbol of spiritual warfare, as Christians are called to fight against the powers of darkness and to live according to God's truth. Additionally, the centaur's duality can remind us of our own dual nature as both physical and spiritual beings, and the need to balance these aspects of ourselves in a way that honors God. Overall, Sagittarius in the Mazzaroth adds to the gospel by providing a symbolic reminder of the importance of pursuing truth, fighting against evil, and living a balanced and righteous life in accordance with God's will.

Decans

Each sign of the Mazzaroth is further divided into three equal parts called Decans. These Decans have their own unique meanings and symbolism, and are associated with different constellations.

Lyra

an Eagle holding the Lyre, as in triumphant gladness;

Ara

the Altar, with consuming fires, burning downward;

Draco

the Dragon, the old Serpent, winding himself about the Pole in horrid links and contortions,

Capricorn



Capricorn is known as the "Goat of Atonement" or "Sacrifice". It is associated with the Hebrew month of Tevet, which falls between mid-December and mid-January. In Jewish tradition, Tevet is a time of repentance and reflection, as it marks the beginning of the winter season when the earth is barren and lifeless. Capricorn's symbolism of sacrifice and atonement is therefore significant, as it represents the need for personal sacrifice and repentance in order to be reconciled with God. From a Christian perspective, Capricorn's symbolism of sacrifice and atonement points to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross for the forgiveness of sins. As believers, we are called to follow Christ's example of self-sacrifice and to repent of our sins in order to receive the gift of eternal life. Capricorn's placement in the Mazzaroth therefore adds to the gospel message by reminding us of the importance of repentance and the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ.

Decans

Each sign of the Mazzaroth is further divided into three equal parts called Decans. These Decans have their own unique meanings and symbolism, and are associated with different constellations.

Sagitta

the Arrow, or killing dart sent forth, the naked shaft of death;

Aquila

the Eagle, pierced and falling;

Delphius

the Dolphin, springing up, raised out of the sea

Aquarius



the constellation of Aquarius is associated with the water-bearer or the man with a jug pouring water. It is also known as the "Age of Aquarius," which is said to represent the coming of a new age of enlightenment and peace. From a Christian perspective, some believers interpret Aquarius as symbolizing the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, as Jesus promised to send the Spirit as a Comforter to his followers after his ascension to heaven. In the Gospel of John, Jesus tells his disciples that he will send the Holy Spirit to be with them always, and in Acts 2, we see the fulfillment of this promise when the Holy Spirit comes upon the disciples on the day of Pentecost, as tongues of fire. Furthermore, in the book of Revelation, we see a vision of a river of life flowing from the throne of God, which some interpret as representing the Holy Spirit, and which also ties in with the water theme associated with Aquarius. Overall, while the interpretation of Aquarius in the Mazzaroth may vary among different believers, it can be seen as an illustration of the role of the Holy Spirit in the life of a Christian and a reminder of the promise of Jesus to send the Spirit to guide and comfort his followers.

Decans

Each sign of the Mazzaroth is further divided into three equal parts called Decans. These Decans have their own unique meanings and symbolism, and are associated with different constellations.

The Southern Fish

drinking in the stream

Pegasus

a white horse, winged and speeding, as with good tidings;

Cygnus

the Swan on th wing, ging and returning, bearing the sign of the cross

Pisces



In the Mazzaroth, Pisces is represented by two fish swimming in opposite directions, but tied together by a cord. This constellation was known to the ancient Babylonians as "the fish of Ea", and in Greek mythology, it is associated with Aphrodite and Eros who transformed themselves into fish to escape from the monster Typhon. From a Christian perspective, some scholars believe that the symbol of Pisces may represent the church, as fish were often used as a symbol for followers of Jesus Christ in the early days of Christianity. Additionally, the fish tied together with a cord could represent the unity of believers in Christ, despite their differences. The Gospel message is ultimately about unity and the reconciliation of all people with God through Christ. Pisces' symbolism of unity and the intertwining of two fish could be seen as a representation of this message. In the New Testament, Jesus called his disciples to become "fishers of men", and many early Christian symbols included the fish motif. Overall, the symbolism of Pisces in the Mazzaroth adds to the Gospel message by pointing to the unity and spiritual interconnectedness of believers in Christ, and emphasizing the importance of spreading the message of the Gospel to all people.

Aries



Aries is associated with the Passover sacrifice in Jewish tradition. The ram or lamb was sacrificed to atone for the sins of the people, and its blood was used to mark the Israelites' doorposts during the Exodus from Egypt. This sacrificial lamb imagery is also connected to Jesus Christ, who is often referred to as the "Lamb of God" in the New Testament. Christians believe that Jesus' death and resurrection served as the ultimate sacrifice for the forgiveness of sins, fulfilling the Passover sacrifice in a spiritual sense. Therefore, the Aries symbol in the Mazzaroth can be seen as foreshadowing the coming of Christ as the sacrificial lamb who would take away the sins of the world. This adds to the Gospel message by emphasizing the significance of Christ's sacrifice and its fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies.

Taurus



The sign of Taurus opens Act Three, showing us the coming of the Judge of all the earth. Taurus is pictured as a raging bull, coming furiously. Only the front half of the bull is depicted in the constellation. Where the back end of the bull would normally be drawn stands the constellation Aries, the Lamb — as if the bull is coming out of Aires. It is a magnificent picture of Christ who came the first time as the Lamb of God to take away the sins of the world, but will return one day bringing judgment upon the wicked.

Gemini



Gemini is traditionally associated with the tribe of Benjamin and represents the tribe's dual nature, as Benjamin was known for being both fierce warriors and peaceful shepherds. This duality is also reflected in the symbol of the twins in Gemini, representing the two sides of the tribe of Benjamin. From a Christian perspective, the duality of Gemini can be seen as a reflection of the dual nature of humanity, with our inner struggle between good and evil. This struggle is ultimately resolved through faith in Jesus Christ, who offers salvation and the opportunity for transformation. Furthermore, the twin nature of Gemini can also be seen as a reflection of the nature of Christ, who is both fully human and fully divine. Through his death and resurrection, he offers salvation and reconciliation to all who believe in him.

Cancer



Cancer is represented by the Crab. According to ancient Jewish tradition, Cancer was associated with the tribe of Issachar, who were known for their agricultural skills and their ability to understand the times and the seasons. From a Christian perspective, Cancer's association with nurturing and emotional sensitivity can remind us of God's compassion and care for His people. The image of a mother crab protecting her young can also point us to the protective and nurturing nature of God, who cares for us like a loving parent. Furthermore, Cancer's association with the tribe of Issachar can remind us of the importance of understanding the times and the seasons, both in terms of our spiritual lives and in our daily lives. As we seek to follow Jesus and share His love with others, we must be aware of the needs and challenges of the world around us, and be ready to respond with wisdom and compassion. Overall, Cancer's place in the Mazzaroth can remind us of God's care and protection, as well as the importance of understanding and responding to the world around us as we seek to share the Gospel with others.

Leo



Leo is the fifth sign of the zodiac and is represented by the lion. Leo is associated with leadership, strength, and courage. It is said that people born under the sign of Leo are confident, generous, and passionate, and are natural leaders who inspire others to follow them. In the context of the gospel, the significance of Leo lies in its association with the Lion of Judah, a title given to Jesus Christ in the New Testament. The Lion of Judah is a symbol of strength and authority, and it represents the power and majesty of Christ. The book of Revelation describes Jesus as the "Lion of the tribe of Judah," who has conquered death and is worthy of praise and worship. Therefore, the association of Leo with the Lion of Judah in the Mazzaroth adds to the gospel by providing a powerful symbol of Christ's strength, authority, and victory over death. It reminds us that Jesus is the ultimate leader, and that his power and majesty are to be revered and celebrated.