Why is astrology haram?

The permissibility or prohibition of astrology, or any other practice, can vary among different religious traditions and interpretations. In Islam, the permissibility of astrology is a matter of scholarly debate, and opinions may differ among Islamic scholars and schools of thought.

The view that astrology is considered "haram" (forbidden) by some Islamic scholars is based on several factors:

1. Associating Partners with Allah (Shirk): Some scholars argue that astrology may involve attributing divine powers or influence to celestial bodies, which is considered a form of shirk (associating partners with Allah). Islam emphasizes the oneness of Allah, and practices that suggest divination through celestial bodies may be seen as incompatible with monotheistic beliefs.

2. Divination and Fortune-Telling: Islam prohibits practices related to divination and fortune-telling, as they are considered attempts to unveil the unseen or predict the future. Some argue that astrology, especially when used for predicting individual destinies, falls into this category.

3. Reliance on Unseen Forces: Islam encourages reliance on Allah and discourages seeking guidance from sources other than divine revelation. Depending on the interpretation, astrology may be seen as relying on unseen forces or cosmic influences, which could be incompatible with Islamic teachings.

It's important to note that not all Muslims or Islamic scholars share the same view on astrology. Some argue that certain aspects of astrology, such as using celestial bodies for navigation or timing, may be permissible as long as they do not involve prohibited practices like divination.

Individual Muslims may seek guidance from their religious authorities or scholars to understand the stance on astrology within their specific school of thought. Islamic rulings can be nuanced and may depend on the intent and specific practices involved. As with many religious and ethical matters, interpretations may vary, and individuals may choose to follow the guidance of scholars aligned with their understanding of Islam.