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Four Directions and Astrology in Turkish Cosmology
- KenanYasin
- 5 Haz
- 3 dakikada okunur
Since ancient times, civilizations have looked to the heavens not only for inspiration but to align their lives with the natural rhythms of the universe. In Turkish cosmology, this relationship between the earth and sky was especially significant, shaping everything from daily practices to astrological wisdom.
The concept of the four cardinal directions—east, west, north, and south—played a central role in how ancient Turks perceived the cosmos and their place within it.
Each direction was not only geographically important but also symbolically tied to planets, natural elements, and life stages. The Turks believed these directions influenced everything from the natural world to human behavior, health, and even societal structures.
For example:
The east, symbolized by Jupiter, represented new beginnings, hope, and growth. It was considered the direction of birth and the source of life.
The west, ruled by Venus, was linked to balance, aesthetics, and endings, as it marked the setting of the sun and the close of each day.
The north, associated with Mercury, was considered the direction of communication, knowledge, and resilience in the face of challenges.
The south, governed by Mars, was seen as the source of vitality, energy, and sometimes conflict, often associated with action and defense.
These associations extended beyond mere geography. The directions, combined with planetary influence, shaped architecture, city planning, and even rituals. The Turks viewed the sky and earth as a unified system, where each part reflected a deeper, cosmic order. This understanding was similar to that of ancient Mesopotamian and other early civilizations, who aligned their temples, cities, and daily lives with the movement of the heavens.
For the Turks, the tent symbolized the microcosm of the universe, with its central pole representing the connection between the celestial dome and the earth. This division of space within the tent mirrored the division of the cosmos into directions and energies, reflecting the duality that exists in nature: day and night, masculine and feminine, birth and death. This philosophy of unity between the heavens and the earth was reflected in their daily lives, cultural beliefs, and astrological practices.
Even today, Turkey's unique geographical position at the crossroads of Europe and Asia reinforces its historical importance as a cultural and commercial bridge between East and West. The country’s landscape, bordered by significant seas like the Mediterranean, Black Sea, Caspian Sea, and Red Sea, reflects the ancient emphasis on water as a symbol of life and continuity.
In my full article, I explore in greater depth how Turkish cosmology and astrology are deeply intertwined. I examine how the Chaldean order of planets influenced the directional system, the role of the four elements in Turkish belief, and how cosmological knowledge was applied to health, warfare, and everyday life. Additionally, I discuss Turkey's position as the potential "center of the world," according to various historical theories and modern geodetic studies.
To dive further into the rich history of how the ancient Turks used astrology and the four directions to understand their world, you can read the full article published in the CIA journal. Explore how these ancient teachings still resonate today, offering timeless wisdom about the balance between the sky and the earth, and how we, too, can apply this understanding to our own lives.
My article titled "Where is the Centre of the World" was published in TimeLords Magazine, Issue 9, 2024, on pages 50-55. You can access it directly through the Cosmic Intelligence Agency at this link: TimeLords Magazine, Issue 9.
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