You are right: mathematicians in that day employed their skills in the interest of astrology, not unlike those who today employ their scientific skills in the interest of the philosophy of evolution. Do you think Augustine was speaking figuratively when he wrote concerning the "bonds of hell?" I mean, if we're going to quote him as an authority on science and reason, we might as well quote him as authoritative in matters which science may be incapable of addressing.
Fester, you've already admitted you post material you don't understand. What would be the point in answering you? (It's a rhetorical question, btw).