Guido Bonatti: The Medieval Maestro of Astrology

In the constellation of astrological luminaries, few stars shine as brightly as Guido Bonatti, the 13th-century Italian astrologer whose work continues to influence the field today. At the Wilfred Hazelwood Astrology Clinic, we draw inspiration from such historical giants, blending their timeless wisdom with modern insights.

The Man Behind the Stars

Born in Cascia, Italy, around 1210, Guido Bonatti rose to become one of the most renowned astrologers of the Middle Ages. His life was a tapestry woven with threads of astrology, mathematics, and politics, set against the rich backdrop of medieval Italy.

Bonatti's expertise wasn't confined to the theoretical realm. He served as a court astrologer to Frederick II, Holy Roman Emperor, and later to Guido da Montefeltro, the Lord of Urbino. His astrological acumen was said to have influenced military strategies and political decisions, highlighting the significant role astrology played in medieval governance.

"Liber Astronomiae": A Cornerstone of Astrological Literature

Bonatti's magnum opus, "Liber Astronomiae" (Book of Astronomy), stands as one of the most comprehensive astrological treatises of the medieval period. This monumental work, divided into ten treatises, covers a vast array of astrological topics:

The essential dignity of planets
The movement of the planets
Predictive techniques including solar revolutions
Horary astrology
Elections (choosing auspicious times for actions)
Weather prediction
Mundane astrology (predicting world events)

At the Wilfred Hazelwood Clinic, we find ourselves returning to Bonatti's work time and again, marveling at its depth and applicability even in our modern context.

Bonatti's Astrological Philosophy

What set Bonatti apart was not just his comprehensive knowledge, but his approach to astrology. He emphasized the importance of reason and observation, insisting that astrologers should understand the philosophical foundations of their craft.

"The astrologer should be well-founded in natural science... for how can someone judge about the stars who is ignorant of inferior things?" - Guido Bonatti

This integration of astrology with natural philosophy resonates with our approach at Wilfred Hazelwood. We believe that astrological practice should be grounded in a broader understanding of the world and human nature.

Contributions to Horary Astrology

One of Bonatti's most enduring legacies is in the field of horary astrology - the art of answering specific questions using astrological charts. His 146 considerations for horary questions remain a cornerstone of this practice.

These considerations cover everything from the condition of the Moon to the relationship between significators, providing a comprehensive framework for horary interpretation. When we practice horary astrology at our clinic, Bonatti's insights often guide our analysis, helping us unravel the cosmic answers to our clients' pressing questions.

The Bonatti Technique in Electional Astrology

Bonatti also made significant contributions to electional astrology - the practice of choosing optimal times for important actions. His method involves a careful consideration of:

The nature of the event or action
The condition of the Moon
The Lord of the Ascendant
The planet ruling the nature of the question

This systematic approach to elections continues to inform astrological practice today. At Wilfred Hazelwood, we often employ Bonatti's techniques when helping clients choose auspicious times for significant life events.

Bonatti's Legacy in Modern Astrology

Despite the centuries that separate us from Bonatti, his influence on modern astrology is profound. His emphasis on the practical application of astrological knowledge, his systematic approach to interpretation, and his insistence on the integration of astrology with broader knowledge all resonate with contemporary astrological practice.

At our clinic, we see Bonatti's legacy in:

Our holistic approach to chart interpretation
The rigorous methodology we apply to horary and electional astrology
Our commitment to grounding astrological practice in a broader understanding of the world

Standing on the Shoulders of Giants

Guido Bonatti reminds us that astrology is a living tradition, one that has evolved over centuries while retaining its core insights. As we practice astrology in the 21st century, we're not just interpreting the stars - we're participating in a dialogue that spans nearly a millennium.

At the Wilfred Hazelwood Astrology Clinic, we honor Bonatti's contributions by continuing to blend traditional wisdom with modern insights. Whether we're conducting a natal chart reading, answering a horary question, or selecting an auspicious moment for action, Bonatti's spirit infuses our work.

Are you curious about how these time-honored techniques can illuminate your life's journey? Book a session with us to explore how the wisdom of astrologers like Guido Bonatti can provide insights into your personal cosmic narrative. Together, let's bridge the centuries and unlock the timeless wisdom written in the stars.