Vettius Valens, Greek astronomer, mathematician, and astrologer (d. 175)
Who was Vettius Valens?
Vettius Valens, born around 120 CE and active until approximately 175 CE, was a highly influential and prolific Hellenistic astrologer of the 2nd century. Operating during the flourishing era of the Roman Empire, he distinguished himself as a significant figure in the practical application of astrology, serving as a somewhat younger contemporary to the renowned theoretician Claudius Ptolemy. While Ptolemy's seminal work, the Tetrabiblos, meticulously codified the theoretical foundations of Hellenistic astrology, Valens' contributions offer a crucial complementary perspective, illuminating how these complex theories were applied in real-world consultations and predictive practices.
What is Vettius Valens' Major Work?
Valens' principal and most enduring contribution to astrological literature is his monumental work known as the Anthology, or Anthologia in its Latin designation. This comprehensive astrological treatise, originally composed in Greek, spans ten volumes and was written roughly within the period of 150 to 175 CE.
Why is the Anthology so significant?
- It is recognized as the longest and most remarkably detailed treatise on astrology that has survived intact from the Hellenistic period. Its extensive nature provides an invaluable, deep dive into the diverse astrological techniques, interpretive methods, and philosophical underpinnings prevalent during that era.
- Unlike many theoretical texts, the Anthology functions as both a compendium of astrological lore and a practical guide. It details numerous methodologies, including specific calculations for lots (parts), zodiacal releasing, and various predictive techniques, many of which were either less comprehensively explained elsewhere or lost to time until its rediscovery.
- Its unparalleled scope offers insights into the intricate methods used by professional astrologers, such as the application of planetary rulerships, aspects, and complex timing techniques, providing a direct window into the actual practice of ancient astrology.
What unique content does the Anthology contain?
As a dedicated professional astrologer, Vettius Valens incorporated an extraordinary and highly valuable feature into the Anthology: over a hundred meticulously documented sample horoscopic charts derived directly from his personal case files. These are not merely hypothetical examples; they are genuine client horoscopes, often accompanied by brief biographical details of the individual, significant life events that occurred, and Valens' own astrological interpretations or prognoses. This unique inclusion is paramount for modern scholars and practitioners, as it provides an unparalleled, tangible record of:
- How astrological theories were translated into practical, real-world analyses.
- The types of questions clients asked and the nature of the advice given.
- The actual interpretive nuances and predictive outcomes experienced in ancient astrological consultations.