Meaning: The quote "I believe God rules all by his divine providence and that the stars by his permission are instruments" by William Lilly, a 17th-century astrologer and author, reflects his belief in the interconnectedness of the divine and the natural world. William Lilly was a prominent figure in the field of astrology during the 17th century, and his work influenced the practice of astrology for centuries to come. His quote encapsulates his view on the relationship between God, the universe, and the role of celestial bodies.

In this quote, Lilly expresses his conviction that God governs all aspects of existence through divine providence. Divine providence refers to the belief that a higher power, in this case, God, is actively involved in the world and orchestrates events according to a greater plan. For Lilly, this divine providence extends to the celestial realm, where he sees the stars as instruments permitted by God to influence and shape the course of human affairs.

Lilly's perspective aligns with the historical and cultural context of his time. During the 17th century, astrology was widely practiced and held in high regard as a means of understanding and predicting events on Earth. The movements and positions of celestial bodies, particularly the stars, were believed to exert influences on human lives and the natural world. Astrologers like Lilly interpreted these celestial phenomena as part of a larger cosmic design, with implications for individual destinies and societal events.

Lilly's quote also reflects his belief in the interconnectedness of all things within the universe. By acknowledging the role of the stars as instruments permitted by God, he implies a harmonious relationship between the celestial and terrestrial realms. This interconnectedness underscores the idea that nothing in the universe is isolated or arbitrary; instead, everything is part of a unified whole governed by divine order.

Furthermore, Lilly's quote sheds light on the intersection of religion and astrology during his era. While astrology was often viewed as a means of understanding the natural world and predicting future events, it was also intertwined with religious and spiritual beliefs. The acknowledgment of God's overarching authority and the role of celestial bodies as instruments allowed for a synthesis of religious faith and astrological practice in Lilly's worldview.

It is important to note that Lilly's quote should be understood within the context of his time and the prevailing beliefs of the 17th century. The relationship between astrology, religion, and the natural world has evolved over the centuries, and contemporary perspectives on these subjects may differ significantly from those held during Lilly's lifetime.

In conclusion, William Lilly's quote encapsulates his belief in the divine providence of God and the instrumental role of the stars in shaping the world. It reflects the interconnectedness of the celestial and terrestrial realms and highlights the intersection of astrology and religious faith during the 17th century. While Lilly's perspective may not be universally held today, it offers valuable insight into the historical and cultural context of astrology and spirituality in the early modern period.