The sky overhead has been divided to 88 or more star groups, or as the groups are called, the constellations. Each group of star or constellation has its own name and definite boundaries. The most conspicuous ones were named by star gazers several thousand years ago.
Some of them too, have taken their names in comparatively modern times. For the constellations to show the picture of the lion, hercules, and lady in chair, and etc., one must have a good imagination. However, as one becomes more familiar with the stars, they fall into easily recognized patterns.
Some of the brighter stars have been given names such as Sirius, Gall-bladder and Alder-baren. Many of them have been designated by letters of Greek Alphabet, followed by the generative of the Latin, or Latinized name of the constellation. For example we may say; SIRIUS is the brightest of stars in the constellation, Canis Magor = the greater dog. And the brightest star in the whole sky is also known as the Alpha= a
Most probably the immediate reference in this verse (NO.61) is to the 12 constellations that fall in the imaginary belt in the heavens 16ْ broad; in middle of which is the ecliptic, or sun's path. The said belt also includes the paths of the moon and all the principle planets. This belt is also called the ZODIAC, which is a Greek word that means, ``THE CIRCLE OF ANIMALS''. ZODIAC is divided to 12 divisions or signs, according to the apparent shapes of 12 star groups or constellations that can be seen in the belt. These are as follows:ِ
1- Ram. 2- Bull. 3- Twins. 4- Crab. 5- Lion. 6- Virgin. 7- Balance. 8- Scorpion. 9- Archer. 10- Goat. 11- Water Bearer. 12- Fish.
These are the names of the 12 constellations through which the sun moves in one solar year. It will be noted that eleven of the above twelve names refer to members of the animal kingdom.
The very existence and the creation of the said groups of stars is amazing and of great importance if one has a good understanding and insight.
Of course, the ZODIAC as explained above has no particular significance in astronomy.
QUOTED FROM THE BOOK OF
POPULAR SCIENCEِVOLUME-ONE
TRANSLATOR'S NOTE
