By COLlive reporter
Critics are saying that a book claiming to present the authentic astrology of Chazal for the first time is largely adapted from non-Jewish sources commonly associated with modern astrology.
The book in question is “Kosher Astrology: A Jewish Guide to Celestial Wisdom,” written by Yitzchok Aharon Pinkesz, who presents himself as “a Torah-observant astrologer.” It was published by Mosaica Press.
Israel Marelus, a Lubavitcher chossid who spent years studying astronomy as it relates to Kiddush Hachodesh according to the Rambam, now says the book includes forms of astrology that are entirely inconsistent with Torah values, including material he alleges draws from Christian sources.
In a new lecture, Marelus examines what he describes as the methods used by modern astrologers to persuade audiences. The presentation also addresses the halachic prohibition in Shulchan Aruch regarding consulting astrologers.
He also shared a video from Rabbi David Cohen, Rabbi of Congregation Gvul Yaavetz in Flatbush, who wrote a letter of support for the book, presented as a haskama (approbation). Rabbi Cohen has since requested that it be made publicly known that, according to him, his statements were misrepresented and that he strongly opposes both the book and the manner in which his name was used.
Additionally, Marelus argues that this approach to astrology contradicts the principle of Bitachon, trust in Hashem, as taught in Chassidus.
VIDEO:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YRaAF5LzuVQ
