Astrology - The Zodiac in Judaism

Dear Inquirer, 

1. Is the origin of the zodiac signs (Pisces, Aries, Scorpio, etc.) from Judaism? - Yes, the zodiac signs are already mentioned in a book transmitted to us from our ancestor Abraham, as they were twelve forms that Hashem engraved in His world since the creation of the world. So, what is the source? - As mentioned above. 

2. How did the nations adopt the concept of the zodiac? - It was not difficult for the nations in ancient generations to acquire books used by the Jews, and although they did not understand the inner matters contained therein—since comprehension depends on explanation from a living person who received from his teacher in the Oral Torah—nonetheless, the notion of the zodiac in their physical forms was quite easy for them to grasp, as they are visible to everyone in the heavens. 

4. What is the halachic ruling in Judaism regarding the zodiac? - Although we accept the existence of the zodiac, nonetheless, according to the Torah it is forbidden for a Jew to act solely based on what the zodiac indicates. For our faith is that Hashem is above all the zodiac signs; therefore, even if, according to the zodiac, something unfavorable should occur, when we pray to Hashem, it is clear to us that when He hears our prayers, He will transform the influence of the zodiac to good. Consequently, we should not act based on the zodiac, but according to the halacha of the Torah that applies in all situations. Therefore, we find among the Jews the custom to always say "mazal tov," for no Jew ever wishes ill to anyone regarding the zodiac. With blessings, Rabbi Nachum