Why is astrology a sin?

[lanneko3]

I’ve been told that astrology is a mortal sin, violating the 1st commandment. Is that true? If so, I’m confused why it is and need specific reasons, such as something coming from the Vatican or bible. Part of the confusion for me is that the major Eastern religions such as Buddhism and Vedanta use astrology, and even have priests/holy men who specialize in astrology as part of their roles they serve. How could they be so wrong?

I’m concerned for myself because I’ve studied and practiced astrology for many years. Am I forbidden to take the Eucharist if I’ve looked up astrological charts?

 

[Fr.Charles_Grondin]

Catechism of the Catholic Church:

2115 God can reveal the future to his prophets or to other saints. Still, a sound Christian attitude consists in putting oneself confidently into the hands of Providence for whatever concerns the future, and giving up all unhealthy curiosity about it. Improvidence, however, can constitute a lack of responsibility.

2116 All forms of divination are to be rejected: recourse to Satan or demons, conjuring up the dead or other practices falsely supposed to “unveil” the future. Consulting horoscopes, astrology, palm reading, interpretation of omens and lots, the phenomena of clairvoyance, and recourse to mediums all conceal a desire for power over time, history, and, in the last analysis, other human beings, as well as a wish to conciliate hidden powers. They contradict the honor, respect, and loving fear that we owe to God alone.

Catholic Encyclopedia:

From the start the Christian Church strongly opposed the false teachings of astrology.

Astrology essentially usurps the proper role of God and His will. To look to objects such as planets and stars as the guide or influence of our lives rather than God is to violate the 1st Commandment which demands right worship of the one true God. Planets and stars exert no influence on our lives or fates, these things are entirely in the hands of God.
The idea that the planets and stars exert any measurable physical effect upon us is rejected by science. The idea that they exert a spiritual effect upon us is superstition.

If you are looking to anything other than God for help with the present or future, I would say you should cease doing so and make a good confession in order to recommit yourself to God and His will.