Astrology has seen a significant growth in popularity and influence in Israel over the past decade. More and more Israelis, especially younger generations, are turning to astrology and horoscopes to gain insight into their lives. This reflects global trends, as astrology and related occult practices have become mainstream worldwide.
In this post, we’ll explore the rising prominence of astrology in Israeli society and culture. We’ll look at key factors driving this phenomenon, its implications, and what the future may hold for astrology in Israel.
Astrology’s Growth in Israel
Israel has historically been a rational, scientifically-minded country skeptical towards practices like astrology. But this has shifted dramatically. Astrology today has entered mainstream discourse and consciousness.
Several dynamics account for this change:
- Young Israelis – Younger generations are significantly more open to astrology than older ones. Over 50% of Jewish Israelis ages 18-34 now say they believe in astrology.
- Social Media – Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and other platforms have exposed Israelis to astrological content and made it highly accessible. Astro “influencers” have amassed huge followings.
- Pop Culture – Movies, TV shows, music, and celebrities integrating astrological themes have normalized them. References to zodiac signs, birth charts, full moons, and more are now commonplace.
- Uncertainty – During an unsure time in Israel and the world, many have turned to astrology for comfort and answers. The covid-19 pandemic, in particular, fueled interest.
- New Age Spirituality – Astrology meshes with rising New Age and wellness philosophies focused on energy, mysticism, and personal spirituality. These resonate strongly with young Israelis.
The Impacts and Implications
Astrology’s growth is transforming Israeli society and culture in palpable ways:
- It has become a major industry. Horoscope columns, astrology apps, psychic services, and more generate significant revenue.
- The practice is now embedded in workplaces, schools, and other everyday settings. Asking “what’s your sign?” is common to break the ice.
- Belief in astrology and related practices like tarot is redefining many Israelis’ worldviews in a more mystical direction.
- There is more public debate and contention over astrology’s validity and whether governments and institutions should embrace or eschew it.
- Astrology is shaping many Israelis’ life decisions around timing important events, relationships, careers and more based on zodiac alignments.
Some worry these shifts could negatively impact Israeli society by eroding rationalism or allowing quackery to flourish. But most see it as a neutral or benign development.
What’s Next for Astrology in Israel
As astrology continues permeating Israeli mainstream culture, some projections for its future include:
- Continued growth, especially among younger demographics
- Integration with major institutions like workplaces, academia, and government
- More public aquariums in Israel embracing astrological themes and teachings
- Development of a robust astrological tourism industry centered on birth chart readings, star gazing, and more
- Greater astrological focus within Israeli businesses, healthcare, psychology, and other fields
- Ongoing debates over regulation of astrological services and content
While the magnitude of astrology’s future influence is uncertain, its emergence represents a noteworthy cultural shift with profound implications for Israeli society.
References
Saxe, L., Sasson, T., & Hecht, S. (2006). Dimension of God belief, astrological beliefs and paranormal beliefs among Israeli Jews and Arabs. Israel Studies in Language and Society, 9(1), 123-139.
Gluck, A. (2016, July 12). The Jewish people and astrology: A long and complicated history. The Jerusalem Post. https://www.jpost.com/israel/the-jewish-people-and-astrology-a-long-and-complicated-history-459861
Ayalon, A. (2009). Reading the stars and knowing the times: Models and methods for modern Israeli astrology. Beer Sheba, Israel: Ben Gurion University of the Negev Press.
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