Signs and Seasons: Classical Astronomy

Understanding the Elements of Classical Astronomy

Signs & Seasons is an introduction to "Classical Astronomy," the traditional, historical approach to the sky, as had been practiced from ancient times. The biblical basis for astronomy is emphasized, that the Sun, Moon and stars were created "for signs and seasons, days and years." (Genesis 1:14) Topics include the phases of the moon, learning the constellations, why the length of daylight changes with the seasons and how to identify the visible planets. The text is lavishly illustrated with over 400 drawings, several per page, that make clear the visual appearances of the sky. Signs & Seasons includes extensive quotations from Scripture and also classic authors of ancient, medieval, and early modern times. Forty pages of Field Activities are included to give practical instruction and to document hours for high school credit. Though created as a homeschool science curriculum, targeted at students ages 10 and up, parents and other adult readers will also enjoy Signs & Seasons for their own enlightenment, to appreciate how "the heavens declare the glory of God." (Psalm 19:1)

Astronomy is the most ancient science. Throughout all history, people have told time and found direction from the Sun, Moon and stars. This is the purpose for which the LORD created the celestial bodies - for Signs & Seasons, and Days and Years (Genesis 1:14). Lavishly illustrated and extensively quoting ancient sources, Signs & Seasons teaches the traditional, biblical basis for timekeeping and navigation. Topics include: the Phases of the Moon and the Passage of the Seasons; finding the Traditional Constellations and identifying the Visible Planets; how our Calendar is based on the Sun and Moon, and how the times of Passover and Easter are derived from their cycles. Importantly, Signs & Seasons sets the record straight about supposed "pagan influences" in astronomy, and offers challenging biblical explanations that distinguish the legitimate science of astronomy from the ancient superstition of astrology. Signs & Seasons also includes 40 pages of Field Activities, that enable homeschoolers to document work hours for High School Credit, or for adult-assisted activities with younger students. Read Signs & Seasons and rediscover your forgotten astronomical heritage!