Chapter: What Has Been Reported Concerning Astrology

Al-Bukhari records in his Ṣaḥīḥ that Qatādah said, “Allah created these stars for three purposes: as adornment for the sky, as missiles hurled at the devils, and as signs by which people are guided. Whoever interprets them for anything else has gone astray, lost his share, and taken upon himself knowledge of which he has no understanding.” ⦗1⦘

Relevance of this chapter to the Book of Tawḥīd: Certain forms of astrology are false because they claim a share in Allah’s knowledge of the unseen, attach the heart to something other than Allah, and attribute influence to the stars—all of which contradict pure monotheism. Hence a separate chapter is needed to clarify what is forbidden and what is permissible, so the Muslim may proceed with insight.

“What has been reported concerning astrology” means: outlining what is lawful and unlawful, together with the censure, prohibition, and threats mentioned about it. Astrology (tanjīm) refers here to drawing conclusions about earthly events from celestial conditions—what is called the science of cosmic influence.

Al-Bukhari’s phrase “in his Ṣaḥīḥ” indicates that the report is given in hanging form (muʿallaq).

“Allah created the stars for three [purposes]” is taken from the Qur’an itself.

“An adornment for the sky” alludes to His words, “Indeed We have adorned the lowest heaven with lamps” (al-Mulk 5).

“As missiles against the devils” alludes to His words, “and We made them missiles for the devils” (al-Mulk 5).