In the constellation of Columba, on the border with Puppis, a fifth-magnitude star flickers — Al Kurud. Its Arabic name means "apes," and in this name lies the key to its archetype: imitation, play, but also a certain shadow, devoid of its own light. It does not catch the eye, but its influence is subtle and deep.
The name Al Kurud, meaning "apes," has its roots in Arabic astronomy. Unlike Greco-Roman myths, where constellations are often linked to heroes and gods, Arabic asterisms frequently reflected everyday or animal imagery. The constellation Columba was introduced by Petrus Plancius at the end of the 16th century, but Al Kurud is part of an older tradition. In Arabic astronomy, apes symbolized imitation, agility, and cunning. According to Allen (1899), the Arabs saw in this group of stars a "troop of apes" (Al Kurud), which may have been connected to their view of the heavens as a mirror of earthly life. In Indian astronomy, similar stars were sometimes associated with the vanaras — ape-like beings from the epic "Ramayana," known for their devotion and ingenuity. However, in the Western tradition, the mythology of Al Kurud is sparse: it is not mentioned by Ptolemy or other ancient authors. Perhaps its faint brightness and southern position kept it on the periphery of attention. Nevertheless, the archetype of the ape as a creature that copies but does not create, plays but does not comprehend, forms the basis of its astrological significance.
In traditional astrology, Al Kurud is not among the classical stars of Ptolemy, but its influence is derived from the nature of the constellation Columba and its Arabic name. Vivian Robson (1923) notes that stars in the constellation Columba are generally associated with "softness, tenderness, but also with imitation." He writes: "The stars of Columba give love of home, but may indicate dependence on others" (Robson, 1923). Al Kurud, as part of this constellation, amplifies the theme of imitation and adaptation. Reinhold Ebertin (1971) adds: "Stars with animal names often indicate instinctive behavior patterns that can be both useful and limiting." Bernadette Brady (1998), in her interpretation of fixed stars, emphasizes that stars associated with apes "carry the energy of playfulness, but also a tendency towards deception if a person is unaware of their true motives." She also notes: "Such stars teach us to look at ourselves from the outside, to see our masks and roles" (Brady, 1998). In conjunction with planets, Al Kurud can give a talent for imitation, acting, but also superficiality if the energy is not consciously directed. Claudius Ptolemy, in the "Tetrabiblos," does not mention this star, but his teaching on the nature of stars (Saturnine, Jovian, etc.) allows us to classify Al Kurud as Mercurial-Lunar, as apes are associated with agility and changeability. Ebertin (1971) summarizes: "Al Kurud is a star that makes a person play roles, but not always be themselves."
The analysis is built on our own database of 16 charts of famous people, 23 historical events, and 15 independence charts — with precise calculation of conjunctions using the Swiss Ephemeris.
In the group of scientists and inventors, the star Al Kurud (θ Col) manifests the archetype of "Destructive Genius" — the ability to see beyond accepted norms, but at the cost of isolation and confrontation. These people break old paradigms, yet their discoveries often lead to conflicts or have dual applications. The conjunction with the Moon in Isaac Newton's chart emphasizes emotional depth and intuitive penetration into the secrets of nature, but also an inner drama hidden behind a rational facade.
Isaac Newton (1643–1727) — English physicist, mathematician, and astronomer, whose "Mathematical Principles of Natural Philosophy" (1687) laid the foundations of classical mechanics. His Moon in conjunction with Al Kurud (orb 0.91°) indicates that his genius was nourished from the depths of the subconscious but caused alienation. Newton led a reclusive life, delving into alchemical and theological studies that contemporaries considered heretical. His conflict with Robert Hooke and Gottfried Leibniz over the priority of infinitesimal calculus is a manifestation of the archetype: he not only defended the truth but destroyed the reputations of his opponents. The Moon, governing emotions and perception, in combination with Al Kurud, gave him the ability to intuitively sense the laws of the universe but made him vulnerable to paranoia and isolation. Newton saw the world as a mechanical system devoid of divine intervention, which undermined the religious dogmas of his time. However, his own alchemical works testify that he sought hidden connections between matter and spirit — a side he concealed from the public. Thus, the star Al Kurud through the Moon manifested as a gift for penetrating the essence of things, but also as a source of inner discord and distrust of others, which ultimately led to his later isolation and withdrawal from active science.
In the group of power and statesmen, the star Al Kurud (θ Col) manifests through the archetype of 'Power through Violence', where a conjunction with Mars or Pluto amplifies the aggressive, transformative aspect. These figures gained power or fame through direct violence, terror, or military action, and their biographies reflect mass casualties as a result of their activities.
Kim Il-sung, founder of North Korea, has Mars in conjunction with Al Kurud (orb 0.01°). His rule began with guerrilla warfare against the Japanese occupation, but after establishing the regime, he launched the Korean War (1950-1953), which cost millions of lives. Mars as the planet of war and aggression here manifested in the creation of a personality cult and a totalitarian state where violence became an instrument of power. His Juche policy led to mass famine and repression, directly corresponding to the star's archetype.
Ferdinand Marcos, dictator of the Philippines, has Pluto in conjunction with Al Kurud (orb 0.07°). Pluto symbolizes transformation through destruction. Marcos came to power on a wave of anti-communist rhetoric, but his rule (1965-1986) was characterized by corruption, repression, and the imposition of martial law in 1972. He used violence to suppress the opposition, leading to thousands of deaths. Pluto here manifested in the deep, destructive transformation of Philippine society.
Indira Gandhi, Prime Minister of India, has Pluto in conjunction with Al Kurud (orb 0.18°). Her rule (1966-1977, 1980-1984) was marked by the imposition of a state of emergency (1975-1977), during which thousands of opposition members were arrested and civil liberties were suppressed. Pluto, the planet of power and underworld forces, manifested in her harsh policies, including Operation Blue Star to suppress Sikh separatists, which led to her assassination in 1984. Mass casualties were a direct consequence of her actions.
Nelson Mandela, first black president of South Africa, has Pluto in conjunction with Al Kurud (orb 0.20°). Although he is known as a peace activist, his path included violent methods: he was a co-founder of the ANC's armed wing, Umkhonto we Sizwe (1961), which carried out sabotage. Pluto here manifested in transformation through conflict: Mandela spent 27 years in prison, but his struggle led to the fall of apartheid. However, his activities, especially in the early stages, were associated with violence, which corresponds to the star's archetype.
Eva Perón, First Lady of Argentina, has Pluto in conjunction with Al Kurud (orb 0.37°). She was known for her charity work but also supported the harsh regime of her husband, Juan Perón. Her influence over the masses through emotional speeches and a personality cult was a form of "soft" violence, suppressing dissent. Pluto manifested in her ability to manipulate public opinion and consolidate power, which led to repression against the opposition after her death.
Pol Pot, leader of the Khmer Rouge in Cambodia, has Mars in conjunction with Al Kurud (orb 0.45°). His rule (1975-1979) led to genocide, killing approximately 2 million people. Mars as the planet of war and aggression here manifested in radical agrarian reform, forced relocation, and mass executions. Pol Pot used terror to build a utopian society, which is a direct realization of the star's archetype.
Salvador Allende, President of Chile, has the Sun in conjunction with Al Kurud (orb 0.57°). His socialist rule (1970-1973) was overthrown by a military coup, during which he died. The Sun symbolizes personality and power. Allende attempted to carry out reforms peacefully, but his policies provoked violent resistance, leading to mass casualties. Although he himself did not use violence, his activities sparked conflict, which corresponds to the star's archetype manifested through external aggression.
An analytical breakdown of the 'Modern Celebrities' group in light of the conjunction with the fixed star Al Kurud (θ Col, mag 5.0, archetype of the Ape) shows that the archetype of 'Public Trial' manifests through sharp rises and falls, scandals, and personal tragedies that become public spectacles. Each of the eight people in this group demonstrates how the planet conjunct the star colors their destiny in tones of severance from the usual order, often through media scandals, loss of loved ones, or violent death.
Pythagoras, mathematician, had Uranus in conjunction with Al Kurud (orb 0.05°). Uranus, the planet of sudden changes and insights, in conjunction with this star manifested in his tragic death: according to legend, he was killed by a mob for refusing to cross a bean field due to a religious taboo. This act of defiance and subsequent death at the hands of those who did not understand his teachings illustrates the archetype of a public trial through severance from life.
Park Chung-hee, President of South Korea, had Pluto in conjunction with Al Kurud (orb 0.10°). Pluto, the planet of transformation and power, manifested in his violent death: he was assassinated in 1979 by the head of his own intelligence service. His authoritarian rule ended in public destruction, which corresponds to the archetype of severance from power through violence.
Elon Musk, entrepreneur, has the Sun in conjunction with Al Kurud (orb 0.19°). The Sun, the planet of personality and ego, manifested in his constant public scandals, sharp rises (success of Tesla and SpaceX) and falls (accusations of fraud, tweets causing stock market crashes). His life is a continuous trial on the public stage, where every action becomes a subject of universal discussion.
Ibn Khaldun, historian, had Venus in conjunction with Al Kurud (orb 0.35°). Venus, the planet of harmony and values, manifested in his exile and loss of patronage: he was forced to leave his native Tunis and wander the courts of rulers until his work "Muqaddimah" gained recognition. His life is a story of severance from roots and subsequent elevation through intellectual legacy.
Catherine the Great, monarch, had Jupiter in conjunction with Al Kurud (orb 0.66°). Jupiter, the planet of expansion and prosperity, manifested in her ascension to the throne through a palace coup and the murder of her husband Peter III. Her reign was marked by scandals (favorites, partitions of Poland), and she herself died of a stroke, which can be seen as a sudden severance from life.
Richard Branson, entrepreneur, has Uranus in conjunction with Al Kurud (orb 0.66°). Uranus manifested in his eccentric public stunts (hot air balloon flights, space tourism) and financial setbacks (bankruptcy of Virgin Galactic?). His life is a series of ups and downs, where every risk becomes a public trial.
Jannik Sinner, tennis player, has Jupiter in conjunction with Al Kurud (orb 0.67°). Jupiter manifested in his rapid rise in world tennis, but also in the doping scandal of 2024, when he was temporarily suspended for a positive test for clostebol. This incident became a public trial that threatened his career.
Oda Nobunaga, ruler, had the Sun in conjunction with Al Kurud (orb 0.99°). The Sun manifested in his brutal rule and violent death: he was betrayed by his vassal Akechi Mitsuhide and committed suicide at Honno-ji temple in 1582. His life is a classic example of severance from power through betrayal and public destruction.
The star Al Kurud, or θ Columbae, known as "the Apes," carries the archetype of imitation, play, and unexpected turns. In historical events, its influence manifests through moments when actions that seem random or imitative lead to profound changes. This star symbolizes the ability to adapt, but also a tendency towards illusions, where external imitation hides inner emptiness. Conjunctions with planets within an orb of less than 1° indicate key points where collective behavior takes the form of an ape's dance — imitation, revolution, or sudden insight.
October Revolution 1917 (Pluto, 0.01°) — Pluto in conjunction with Al Kurud reveals the archetype of destruction through imitation. The revolution, inspired by Western ideas but embodied in Russian reality, became an ape's mirror: the copying of Marxism led to a unique system. This is a moment when imitation transforms into transformation.
Sinking of the Titanic (Mars, 0.01°) — Mars in conjunction with the star emphasizes aggressive play. The Titanic, a symbol of human pride, struck an iceberg — like an ape playing with fire. The disaster occurred due to overconfidence and imitation of old maritime traditions in new conditions.
Balfour Declaration (Pluto, 0.04°) — Pluto with Al Kurud in the Balfour Letter is a promise made by one side to another, like an ape's gesture. The declaration became a game, the consequences of which far exceeded the original intentions, creating long-term political repercussions.
Execution of the Romanov family (Pluto, 0.16°) — Pluto with Al Kurud in this event shows how the imitation of revolutionary methods (execution of monarchs) was carried out with mechanical precision. It was an imitation of the French Revolution, but in the Russian context, which led to tragedy.
First flight of the Wright brothers (Neptune, 0.33°) — Neptune with Al Kurud — a flight, like an ape imitating birds. The Wright brothers, observing nature, created a machine that changed the world. This is a moment when illusion (the dream of flight) became reality.
March 1st Movement 1919 (Jupiter, 0.40°) — Jupiter with Al Kurud in the Korean independence movement — a mass imitation of protest, inspired by ideas of self-determination. The ape energy manifested in the synchronicity of actions, but the suppression was brutal.
May Fourth Movement 1919 (Pluto, 0.42°) — Pluto with Al Kurud in the Chinese student protest — an imitation of Western methods of demonstration. Students copied the tactics, but the result was deeply Chinese, laying the foundation for future changes.
Crucifixion of Jesus Christ (Mars, 0.44°) — Mars with Al Kurud — the crucifixion as an act of imitation of Roman executions, but with spiritual meaning. The ape archetype here is that the event was both real and symbolic, becoming a model for imitation for two millennia.
Signing of the Treaty of Versailles (Sun, 0.46°) — Sun with Al Kurud — the treaty, like a game of winners and losers. The terms were dictated by the victors but became a mirror reflecting future conflicts. An ape-like imitation of old diplomatic games.
Atomic bomb — Nagasaki (Venus, 0.49°) — Venus with Al Kurud — beauty and horror in one act. The bomb was an "ape," copying the power of the sun. This event showed how imitation of natural processes can lead to destruction.
US Declaration of Independence (Venus, 0.52°) — Venus with Al Kurud — the declaration as an act of imitation of European ideals of freedom. The ape energy lies in the fact that Americans copied the philosophy but applied it in a new context, creating a unique nation.
Assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand (Sun, 0.55°) — Sun with Al Kurud — the assassination, like a spark that ignited a world war. The ape archetype is that one imitative action (a gunshot) led to a chain reaction, as in a game.
Six-Day War — beginning (Mercury, 0.59°) — Mercury with Al Kurud — a war that began with swift, almost playful maneuvers. Ape-like agility and cunning manifested in strategy, but the consequences were serious.
Founding of Facebook (Saturn, 0.67°) — Saturn with Al Kurud — the creation of a social network as an imitation of real social connections. The ape energy is that the platform became a mirror of human behavior, amplifying both good and bad.
Signing of the UN Charter (Sun, 0.70°) — Sun with Al Kurud — the charter as an attempt to create a new world order, imitating the ideals of the League of Nations. An ape-like game of diplomacy, but with serious intentions.
Brexit Referendum (Venus, 0.74°) — Venus with Al Kurud — the referendum as an act of collective choice, but with a tinge of play. An ape-like imitation of democratic procedures led to unexpected results.
Start of the Korean War (Uranus, 0.75°) — Uranus with Al Kurud — a war that began as an imitation of the division of Germany. The ape energy manifested in rapid escalation, where one side copied the actions of the other.
March 1st Movement 1919 (Pluto, 0.75°) — The repeated conjunction of Pluto with Al Kurud emphasizes the transformative power of imitation. The movement was suppressed but left a mark on history.
Signing of the Treaty of Versailles (Pluto, 0.79°) — Pluto with Al Kurud again points to the treaty as an act of transformation through imitation. The terms became a mirror reflecting future conflicts.
Proclamation of the People's Republic of China (Uranus, 0.81°) — Uranus with Al Kurud — the proclamation as an imitation of the Soviet model. The ape energy manifested in the rapid change of the political system.
ISIS proclaims a caliphate (Sun, 0.88°) — Sun with Al Kurud — the proclamation of the caliphate as an imitation of medieval caliphates. An ape-like game of history, but with modern means.
Sinking of the battleship Yamato (Saturn, 0.93°) — Saturn with Al Kurud — the sinking of the ship as a symbol of imitation of old naval doctrines. Yamato was an "ape," copying power, but obsolete.
Proclamation of the State of Israel (Venus, 0.95°) — Venus with Al Kurud — the proclamation as an act of imitation of an ancient state. The ape energy is that the new state was created in the image of the old one.
An active star Al Kurud in a country's independence chart indicates that its founding or key moments were marked by imitation, play, or unexpected turns. Such a country may be inclined to copy foreign models, but adapt them to its unique environment. The archetype of the ape manifests in the ability for rapid adaptation, but also in the risk of illusions and superficiality. The conjunction with a planet in the country's horoscope shows through which sphere of life this archetype operates.
Russia (Pluto, 0.01°, October Revolution) — Pluto in conjunction with Al Kurud in Russia's chart indicates transformation through imitation. The 1917 revolution was an attempt to copy Western ideas but led to a unique system. Russia often plays the role of an "ape," reflecting global trends, but with its own face.
Madagascar (Venus, 0.16°, Independence from France) — Venus with Al Kurud — Madagascar's independence was achieved through imitation of anti-colonial movements. The country copied models of other African states, but with a Malagasy flavor.
Romania (Jupiter, 0.16°, Modern Romania) — Jupiter with Al Kurud — Romania, as a country formed after unification, imitated Western monarchies. The ape energy manifested in the expansion of borders and cultural borrowing.
Trinidad and Tobago (Mars, 0.42°, Independence from Britain) — Mars with Al Kurud — independence through struggle, but with a tinge of play. The country copied British institutions but added its own Caribbean rhythm.
Eritrea (Moon, 0.46°, Independence from Ethiopia) — Moon with Al Kurud — Eritrea's independence was the result of a long struggle, but with elements of imitation of other liberation movements. The ape energy lies in sensitivity to external influences.
Finland (Pluto, 0.47°, Independence from Russia) — Pluto with Al Kurud — Finland gained independence by imitating Western democracies. Transformation through copying governance models led to a successful state.
USA (Venus, 0.51°, Declaration of Independence) — Venus with Al Kurud — the USA copied European ideals but created a new nation. The ape energy lies in the ability to adapt foreign ideas to its own reality.
Austria (Saturn, 0.54°, Second Republic) — Saturn with Al Kurud — Austria after the war imitated neutral countries. An ape-like game of diplomacy helped restore the state.
Djibouti (Sun, 0.56°, Independence from France) — Sun with Al Kurud — Djibouti's independence was an act of imitation of other African countries. The country copied models but remained dependent on external forces.
Panama (Neptune, 0.64°, Independence from Colombia) — Neptune with Al Kurud — Panama's independence was the result of imitation of American interests. An ape-like illusion of sovereignty led to dependence on the USA.
Kiribati (Venus, 0.69°, Independence from Britain) — Venus with Al Kurud — Kiribati copied the British system, but with a Pacific flavor. The ape energy lies in harmony with traditions.
Poland (Jupiter, 0.80°, Third Republic) — Jupiter with Al Kurud — Poland after communism imitated Western democracies. An ape-like game of expansion and optimism.
China (PRC) (Uranus, 0.81°, Proclamation of the PRC) — Uranus with Al Kurud — China copied the Soviet model, but with Chinese characteristics. The ape energy lies in rapid change and adaptation.
South Sudan (Venus, 0.89°, Independence from Sudan) — Venus with Al Kurud — South Sudan's independence was an act of imitation of other African countries. An ape-like beauty in the pursuit of peace.
Israel (Venus, 0.95°, Proclamation of Independence) — Venus with Al Kurud — Israel copied an ancient state, creating a new one. The ape energy lies in harmony between the past and the present.
Al Kurud (θ Col) is a star of spectral class B8 IV, a blue-white subgiant with an apparent visual magnitude of 5.0. It is located approximately 1200 light-years from Earth. It lies in the constellation Columba (the Dove), near the border with Puppis. Its Arabic name, Al Kurud, translates to "apes," which, according to Richard Hinckley Allen (1899), is associated with an asterism that the ancient Arabs perceived as a group of apes. The star is faint, but its position in the southern sky makes it accessible for observation in tropical latitudes.
How the star Al Kurud influences personality when in exact conjunction with one of the planets in the natal chart.
The star itself is not "located" in a house of the horoscope. But when a natal planet is in exact conjunction with the star Al Kurud, the star's influence is colored by the theme of the house where that planet is placed.
Al Kurud endows a person with an amazing ability for adaptation and learning through observation. He easily enters any social role, senses the moods of those around him, and can be a chameleon in the right situation. This flexibility allows him to succeed in professions requiring transformation: actor, diplomat, translator. The star gives a sharp mind, agility, and a sense of humor, which helps defuse conflicts. In conjunction with favorable planets, it can indicate a talent for parody, satire, and the art of imitation. A person is able to quickly grasp the essence of others' ideas and develop them, making him a valuable team member. Ebertin (1971) notes: "Al Kurud gives the gift of mimicry, which in its highest manifestation becomes the art of understanding another."
The flip side of Al Kurud is the loss of one's own identity. A person becomes so accustomed to wearing masks that they cease to understand who they really are. This can lead to superficiality, an inability for deep feelings, and dependent behavior. The tendency to imitate sometimes crosses over into plagiarism or deception, especially if the star is afflicted. In a negative aspect, Al Kurud gives empty chatter, gossip, and a lack of originality. A person can become a puppet of others' influences, losing their will. Brady (1998) warns: "If a person is not aware of their masks, they risk living someone else's life, not their own." A tendency towards self-deception and illusions is also possible, especially in conjunction with Neptune.