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William Lilly Quotes

Powerful William Lilly for Daily Growth

About William Lilly

William Lilly (1602-1681), an English astrologer and one of the most influential figures in the history of Western astrology, was born on January 19, 1602, in London, England. His father, a baker, died when he was just six years old, leaving his family in financial distress. Lilly, however, showed great aptitude for learning and was apprenticed to a goldsmith at the age of thirteen. During his time as an apprentice, Lilly's interest in astrology began to grow. He became self-taught, studying works by renowned astrologers like Johannes Kepler and Henry Cornelius Agrippa. In 1632, he published his first work, "Cyclographia," a collection of astrological observations. Lilly's life took a dramatic turn in 1640 when he had a visionary experience that convinced him to fully embrace astrology as his life's work. He became deeply involved with the London Society of Astrologers and gained a reputation for his accurate predictions, particularly during the English Civil War. Lilly's most significant work, "Christian Astrology," was published in 1647. This four-volume encyclopedia of astrology is considered a seminal text in the field, and it solidified Lilly's status as one of the greatest astrologers of his time. The book covers everything from natal charts to electional astrology, and it remains influential to this day. Despite facing criticism and persecution for his work, Lilly continued to practice astrology until his death in 1681. His influence on the field is immeasurable, and he is often referred to as the "Father of English Astrology." Lilly's quotes, such as "An astrologer without a library is like a bird without wings," continue to resonate with astrologers today.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"What is Fate? Nothing but what a man's Feet carry him to."

This quote by William Lilly suggests that one's destiny or fate is not predetermined, but rather shaped by the choices and actions one takes. The feet symbolize personal decisions and efforts made in life, emphasizing that our future is dependent on where we choose to go and what paths we decide to walk down. In other words, our fate is within our control, and we can shape it through our actions and choices.

"The Art of Astrology consists in casting a Nativity, and then judging it."

William Lilly's quote suggests that the practice of astrology involves two main steps: first, "casting a nativity," which refers to creating a birth chart or horoscope based on the exact time, date, and place of an individual's birth; second, "judging it," meaning interpreting and analyzing the positions and aspects in the resulting astrological map to understand the native's character traits, potential abilities, life challenges, and destiny. In essence, Lilly emphasizes that astrology is not just about making predictions but also about understanding and interpreting one's life journey as influenced by celestial bodies at their birth moment.

"Astrology without Astronomy is blind."

This quote emphasizes the importance of understanding the scientific basis (astronomy) for astrology to be effective or meaningful. In other words, if one wants to practice astrology accurately, they must have a solid grasp of the astronomical principles that underlie it. Without this foundation, astrology may be considered as lacking in depth and accuracy.

"There are few things more difficult than predicting the future, but we must try our best to guide those who seek our wisdom."

This quote emphasizes the challenging nature of predicting the future, yet underscores the importance of striving for wisdom and guidance in the face of uncertainty. It acknowledges that making predictions is hard, but encourages individuals to use their knowledge and experience to help those seeking advice and direction.

"The stars indicate, but they do not compel."

This quote implies that astrological signs or patterns (stars) offer insights or predictions about one's life, but they don't dictate or force the course of events. Individuals are free to make their own choices and shape their destinies according to their own will. Astrology can serve as a guide, but ultimately, personal actions determine the outcome.

In this year 1634, I purchased the moiety of thirteen houses in the Strand for five hundred and thirty pounds.

- William Lilly

Year, Hundred, Strand, Thirteen

After that his Majesty was beheaded, the Parliament for some years effected nothing either for the publick peace or tranquillity of the nation, or settling religion as they had formerly promised.

- William Lilly

Nothing, Nation, Some, Settling

If people suspect their Cattle Bewitched, if they be great Cattle, make the twelfth house their ascendant, and the eleventh their twelfth house, and vary your Rules with Judgment.

- William Lilly

Vary, Cattle, Ascendant, Twelfth

After my mistress was dead, I lived most comfortably, my master having a great affection for me.

- William Lilly

Dead, Having, Comfortably, Affection

I believe God rules all by his divine providence and that the stars by his permission are instruments.

- William Lilly

Believe, Rules, Permission, Providence

Of my infancy I can speak little, only I do remember that in the fourth year of my age I had the measles.

- William Lilly

Year, Infancy, Had, Fourth

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