[split] Discussion about the word "Zodiac"

[MarcoP]

I guess the confusion comes from the use of the word Zodiac. When we say 'a zodiac', the most 'standard' thing that comes to mind is twelve of the thirteen constellations of the ecliptic presented as signs in a circle, with an astrological intention.

When we see for example a planisphere or a celestial globe, we can say it contains 'the constellations of the Zodiac', but not 'a Zodiac'. It shows the constellations in their real position on the ecliptic, without any astrological intent.

In my opinion, the above statements are misleading. I think it's difficult to distinguish astrological from astronomical, when discussing ancient artifacts. The two disciplines were close and inter-dependent and authors like Ptolemy or al-Sufi are relevant to the history of both fields. Kepler himself still used to cast horoscopes. 

I also think we cannot say much about the intentions with which a planisphere or a celelestial globe was created.  How can we say they were produced "without any astrological intent"?

Finally, I would like to note that in many cases, planispheres and celestial globes actually included a zodiac wheel:
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Savage Smith ("Islamicate Celestial Globes") mentions several globes with "12 medallions containing the zodiacal signs represented by emblematic motifs that are to be found on other examples of Islamicate metalwork".