It's been almost 500 years since Michel de Nostradame, better known as Nostradamus, published his book Les Prophéties.
The publication set out over 900 predictions for what the future would be like - many of which have been "eerily accurate". By reading the book, it's possible to find out what 2023 may bring, due to how spot-on some of his predictions have been in the past.
Understandably, many aren't convinced by his writings. But looking back, the book referenced many historical events that ended up happening, such as Hitler's rise to power and the French Revolution.
The Mirror reports that French physician is even said to have known John F Kennedy would be assassinated and the 9/11 terror attacks on the World Trade Centre in New York would take place.
There aren't specific dates laid out in the book, but there are a few predictions that may end up happening next year.
'A great war'
One of the standout predictions in Nostradamus' book is 'a great war'.
In his writings, one line particularly stands out: "Seven months great war, people dead through evil.
"Rouen, Evreux shall not fall to the King."
This prediction could be a reference to the current conflict between Ukraine and Russia, which could escalate to World War III next year.
The seven-month timescale he's given may not seem that long, but with the current nuclear threat surrounding countries such as America and Russia, it may be wise to take the prediction with a pinch of caution.
In the event of WW3 taking place, the prediction adds that the French city of Rouen will be safe, insinuating that Paris could be in danger.
Celestial fire
Another of Nostradamus' predictions involves a 'celestial fire on the Royal edifice' - but it could be more sinister than it seems.
Fire is a clear doomsday sign in the Bible, and often indicates the end of the world.
It is suggested that from the ashes of civilisation a new world order will emerge, causing the end of times as we know it.
Mars landing
Nostradamus also referenced the "light on mars falling" in his book of predictions. This could be because of the planet going into retrograde motion, moving backwards through the skies.
But it could also reference the efforts of humanity to colonise the planet, thanks to Elon Musk's enthusiasm for humans to land on Mars by the end of the decade.
The SpaceX founder has also shared that he wishes to colonise the red planet before the end of 2029.
Economic disaster
Due to the Covid pandemic and the current conflict in Ukraine, an economic crisis is already taking place across the globe, putting pressure on families and individuals.
The French astrologist wrote in his book: ‘So high will the bushel of wheat rise, that man will be eating his fellow man’.
This prediction suggests that an economic crisis could cause desperation and struggles due to living costs.
Currently in the UK, households are facing a cost of living crisis where they are experiencing rocketing energy bills, sky-high inflation and soaring food prices which could rear its head in 2023, according to Nostradamus.
Global warming
The threat of global warming has been known for years, but according to Nostradamus, there could be further temperature increases and rising sea levels in 2023.
He wrote: “Like the sun the head shall sear the shining sea: The Black Sea’s living fish shall all but boil.
"When Rhodes and Genoa half-starved shall be, the local folk to cut them up shall toil."
As global temperatures continue to climb, sea levels rise and food chain complications becoming apparent, 2023 may be the year that climate change hits its peak.
Civil unrest
Current issues like the cost of living crisis and global warming could mean there's greater levels of civil unrest next year.
The Frenchman predicted: "Sooner and later you will see great changes made, dreadful horrors and vengeances’.
This prediction suggests that there could be a revolt against the rich as people fight back against the sinking economy.
Another quatrain adds that violence and discord could be on the cards for the wealthy.
It reads: " The trumpet shakes with great discord.
"An agreement broken: lifting the face to heaven:
"the bloody mouth will swim with blood;
"the face anointed with milk and honey lies on the ground."
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