Biblical Astrology | The 12 Tribes of Isreal | Part II

Taje Astrology
Dec 8, 2024
3 min read

The association between the 12 Tribes of Israel and the 12 Zodiac Signs is a fascinating topic rooted in the symmetry between biblical symbolism and celestial archetypes.

Each tribe, representing a unique characteristic and destiny, can be linked to a corresponding zodiac sign based on traits, symbols, and roles described in the Bible. Below is an exploration of these connections:

1. Tribe of Reuben → Aries (The Ram)

Reuben's Traits: Reuben is the firstborn and described as "unstable as water" (Genesis 49:4). His passionate and impulsive nature aligns with Aries, a fiery and headstrong sign.
Symbolism: Aries represents leadership and bold beginnings, reflecting Reuben’s position as the firstborn, though his impulsiveness leads to instability.

2. Tribe of Simeon → Taurus (The Bull)

Simeon's Traits: Known for stubbornness and strength, Simeon, along with Levi, was fiercely vengeful (Genesis 49:5-7).
Symbolism: Taurus, an earth sign, symbolizes steadiness and tenacity, but also unyielding and sometimes destructive determination.

3. Tribe of Levi → Gemini (The Twins)

Levi's Traits: The Levites were set apart as priests, mediators between God and man, reflecting dual roles—spiritual and earthly.
Symbolism: Gemini represents duality, communication, and adaptability, paralleling Levi's role in connecting the divine with the people.

4. Tribe of Judah → Leo (The Lion)

Judah's Traits: Judah is described as a lion (Genesis 49:9) and becomes the lineage of kings, including David and Jesus.
Symbolism: Leo, ruled by the Sun, represents royalty, courage, and leadership, perfectly fitting Judah's destiny as the tribe of kings.

5. Tribe of Zebulun → Cancer (The Crab)

Zebulun's Traits: Zebulun is associated with the sea and commerce, described as a haven for ships (Genesis 49:13).
Symbolism: Cancer, a water sign, represents home, protection, and nurturing, echoing Zebulun’s harboring nature.

6. Tribe of Issachar → Virgo (The Virgin)

Issachar's Traits: Issachar is described as a strong donkey who submits to hard labor (Genesis 49:14-15), symbolizing service and practicality.
Symbolism: Virgo is associated with work, service, and meticulousness, reflecting Issachar’s hardworking and analytical nature.

7. Tribe of Dan → Scorpio (The Scorpion)

Dan's Traits: Dan is likened to a serpent who judges his people (Genesis 49:16-17). This reflects cunning and deep intensity.
Symbolism: Scorpio is a sign of transformation, mystery, and intensity, aligning with Dan’s role as a judge and his association with serpentine wisdom.

8. Tribe of Gad → Sagittarius (The Archer)

Gad's Traits: Gad is a warrior tribe, described as one who overcomes raiders (Genesis 49:19).
Symbolism: Sagittarius, a fire sign, represents adventure, freedom, and resilience, mirroring Gad’s martial and independent spirit.

9. Tribe of Asher → Libra (The Scales)

Asher's Traits: Asher is blessed with abundance and delicacies fit for kings (Genesis 49:20), symbolizing balance and harmony.
Symbolism: Libra, ruled by Venus, represents beauty, harmony, and a refined sense of justice, paralleling Asher’s prosperity and peaceful nature.

10. Tribe of Naphtali → Aquarius (The Water Bearer)

Naphtali's Traits: Naphtali is described as a "deer set free" (Genesis 49:21), symbolizing swiftness and eloquence.
Symbolism: Aquarius represents innovation, freedom, and humanitarianism, aligning with Naphtali’s liberated and expressive nature.

11. Tribe of Joseph → Capricorn (The Goat)

Joseph's Traits: Joseph is a fruitful bough who endures hardship and rises to greatness (Genesis 49:22-26).
Symbolism: Capricorn, an earth sign, represents ambition, perseverance, and ultimate success, fitting Joseph’s journey from suffering to rulership.

12. Tribe of Benjamin → Pisces (The Fish)

Benjamin's Traits: Benjamin is described as a ravenous wolf (Genesis 49:27), yet his descendants are known for their spirituality and artistic talents.
Symbolism: Pisces, a water sign, represents duality, spirituality, and creativity, reflecting Benjamin’s contrasting traits of ferocity and sensitivity.

Biblical and Mystical Perspectives

Divine Order: Both the tribes and zodiac represent God’s perfect order in creation—12 as a number of completion and governance.
Heavenly Patterns: The 12 signs and tribes mirror the structure of the heavens and humanity's connection to celestial cycles.
Astrology and Theology: While direct astrological practices are often discouraged in biblical contexts, the symbolic parallels suggest an underlying divine harmony between the heavens and scripture.

Astrological Symmetry and the 12 Tribes

The connection between the 12 Tribes of Israel and the 12 Zodiac Signs emphasizes the unity between the cosmic and the spiritual. The tribes symbolize earthly manifestations of divine qualities, while the zodiac reflects cosmic archetypes influencing human behavior and destiny.