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| Vic Hao Chin, Jr. |
Being a serious student of Astrology, it was a delight for me to discover that he was once considered as one of the best astrologers in the country. Sir Vic is one of the spiritual beings I know and I see him as a personal mentor.
I have a high regard on his insights on human nature and I consider it a privilege to be able to share to you, astrology students and enthusiasts the following words of wisdom from Mr. Vic Hao Chin, Jr.
What is astrology to you?
Vic Hao Chin, Jr.: My own studies for many years on it convinced me that certain aspects of what is called astrology has validity, but at the same time, a lot of other traditional views are very questionable. Astrology is a testable hypothesis and hence efforts of astrologers should be in this direction.
But astrology also has its subjective side which is not subject to scientific analysis for now. A proper understanding of this aspect depends upon the insight and maturity of the interpreter. It's no longer just about an interaction of energies, but an understanding of the larger process of growth of the human being.
It is in this facet of natal astrology where the study has real potential value, but at the same time this is one of the most difficult to master. It entails an understanding of the psyche of human beings and their spiritual potential. This is where esoteric astrology comes in, where the work of Alan Leo retains validity even after almost a century.
When I tested the application of astrology to human life, I found remarkable meaningfulness in the correlation between the chart and the life of the individual life, particularly in the identification of life opportunities as well as possible resolution of life conflicts.
I found, however, that most people are interested mainly about their external fortunes and circumstances. One lady kept on asking whether she will win in the casino. I realized that most people are not interested in genuine inner growth, but are absorbed in issues about material, social or personal advantages.
An astrologer who caters to this will just be playing along with people's superficial needs and desires, and will hardly contribute to genuine human growth. In the long run, it will not be the best use of his or her time.
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| Vic Hao Chin (far right) with Resti Santiago (2nd from right) and members of Astrology Friends Philippines at "Self Transformation Seminar" |
Vic Hao Chin, Jr.: One of the most useful facet of study is in understanding the basic nature of the human psyche and consciousness as represented by the natal chart. A square of the Sun and Jupiter, for example, may indicate an unwholesome approach to expansion in many ways, such as over-enthusiasm or unregulated optimism. If this is the case, then this is a lesson that a person must learn in this life, and must consciously deal with it when dealing with problems, projects, or life issues.
After validating such an observation with the person, then the chart can become a useful tool in seeing unique insights in self-understanding that can help individuals to see deeper and larger possibilities for growth. It offers glimpses of what one would normally be blind to about oneself.
But to do so, an astrologer must understand the larger picture about human life and growth -- karma, reincarnation and self-actualization or self-realization. It concerns the ageless idea of the possibility of full human maturity and perfection. Astrological knowledge, if valid, is but a tool to such quest for perfection.
What astrology books did you read? Which book can you recommend?
Vic Hao Chin, Jr.: I have not read the latest literature on astrology for the past two decades or so, hence I would not be in a position to suggest good books that have appeared during that period.
But I would suggest books along the lines started by the London school of astrology on psychological astrology that looks at the planets as representations of the energies of the psyche. Jeff Mayo's books come immediately to my mind. But these must be validated by parallel studies in psychology, including transpersonal psychology.
Another facet of study is the scientific research on astrology. One of the first notable compilations of such efforts was "Recent Advances in Natal Astrology." Students of astrology must be objective, rational and scientific and must always be alert to experiments that confirm or refute traditional tenets of astrology.
The studies of Gauquelin for example seem to have partly invalidated certain traditional assumptions of astrology while at the same time affirming its basic principles. In these ways, astrology will gradually grow to become a science, not about stars, but about the law of correspondences and the nature of the human psyche and destiny.
Documenting the history of astrology in the Philippines is an ongoing project of Astrology Friends Philippines.