'The Witness Of The Stars' By E.W. Bullinger

"The Witness of the Stars" by E.W. Bullinger is a fascinating exploration of the connections between the constellations and biblical themes. Bullinger delves into the ancient art of astrology but from a Christian perspective, seeking to demonstrate how the stars tell a story that aligns with the Bible. Through careful analysis of the constellations and their associated myths, Bullinger draws parallels to key biblical events and figures, presenting a narrative of redemption that spans from creation to the end times.
Bullinger begins his analysis by explaining the significance of the zodiac, arguing that its origins can be traced back to divine revelation rather than human invention. He asserts that the constellations were originally designed by God to proclaim His message to humanity, but over time, this knowledge became corrupted as people turned to idolatry and astrology.
Central to Bullinger's thesis is the idea that the constellations represent the gospel story. He interprets each of the twelve major constellations of the zodiac as depicting a different aspect of Christ's redemptive work. For example, he sees Virgo, the virgin, as representing the promised seed of the woman, while Leo, the lion, symbolizes the conquering Lion of Judah. Bullinger also examines lesser-known constellations and argues that they too hold significance in the biblical narrative.
Throughout the book, Bullinger draws parallels between the constellations and biblical characters or events. For instance, he connects the constellation of Orion with the story of Job, suggesting that Orion's battle with the constellations represents Job's struggle with suffering and his eventual vindication by God. Similarly, he links the constellation of Draco, the dragon, with Satan and the cosmic conflict between good and evil.
One of Bullinger's key arguments is that the gospel message is embedded in the heavens for all to see. He contends that even ancient civilizations, such as the Babylonians and Egyptians, preserved fragments of this celestial revelation in their myths and religious practices. However, Bullinger is careful to distinguish between the true message of the stars and the false interpretations of astrology. He emphasizes that the constellations are not to be worshipped or used for divination but rather to point humanity towards the Creator.
Bullinger's approach to biblical interpretation is highly symbolic and allegorical. He sees meaning not only in the placement and names of the constellations but also in their associated myths and legends. This allows him to draw connections between seemingly unrelated stories and events, weaving them together into a cohesive narrative of redemption.
Critics of Bullinger's work may argue that his interpretation of the constellations is overly speculative and relies too heavily on subjective symbolism. Furthermore, some may question the theological implications of associating pagan myths with biblical truth. However, Bullinger's defenders would likely counter that his approach provides valuable insights into the unity of Scripture and the ways in which God reveals Himself through His creation.
In conclusion, "The Witness of the Stars" offers a unique perspective on the relationship between the heavens and the Bible. By interpreting the constellations as a celestial gospel, Bullinger presents a narrative of redemption that spans from creation to the end times. While his approach may be controversial, it invites readers to consider the mysteries of God's revelation in nature and Scripture. Whether one accepts Bullinger's interpretation or not, his work serves as a reminder of the profound connections between the physical world and the spiritual realm.