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Astrological signs represent twelve equal segments or divisions of the zodiac
Zodiac

Zodiac denotes an annual cycle of twelve stations along the ecliptic, the apparent path of the Sun across the heavens through the constellations that divide the ecliptic into twelve equal zones of celestial longitude....
. According to astrology
Astrology

Astrology is a group of systems, traditions, and beliefs which hold that the relative positions of astronomical object and related details can provide useful information about personality, human affairs, and other terrestrial matters....
, celestial phenomena reflect or govern human activity on the principle of "as above, so below
Macrocosm and microcosm

Macrocosm and microcosm is an ancient Greek philosophy schema of seeing the same patterns reproduced in all levels of the cosmos, from the largest scale all the way down to the smallest scale ....
", so that the twelve signs are held to represent twelve basic personality types or characteristic modes of expression.

In Western
Western astrology

Western astrology is the system of astrology most popular in Western countries. Western astrology originated in Babylonian astrology during the 2nd millennium BC, from where it spread to much of the world....
 and Indian astrology, the twelve signs are associated with constellations, while in Chinese astrology
Chinese astrology

Chinese astrology is based on the astronomy and traditional calendars. The Chinese astrology does not calculate the positions of the sun, moon and planets at the time of birth....
 there is no connection with constellations, as it is simply the line of the equator that is divided into twelve equal segments.

In Western and Asian astrology, the emphasis is on space, and the movement of the sun, moon and planets
Planets in astrology

Planets in astrology have a meaning different from the modern Astronomy understanding of Definition of planet. Astrology utilises the ancient geocentric model of the universe in its calculations and thus employs the term in its original geocentric sense....
 in the sky through each of the zodiac signs.






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Astrological signs represent twelve equal segments or divisions of the zodiac
Zodiac

Zodiac denotes an annual cycle of twelve stations along the ecliptic, the apparent path of the Sun across the heavens through the constellations that divide the ecliptic into twelve equal zones of celestial longitude....
. According to astrology
Astrology

Astrology is a group of systems, traditions, and beliefs which hold that the relative positions of astronomical object and related details can provide useful information about personality, human affairs, and other terrestrial matters....
, celestial phenomena reflect or govern human activity on the principle of "as above, so below
Macrocosm and microcosm

Macrocosm and microcosm is an ancient Greek philosophy schema of seeing the same patterns reproduced in all levels of the cosmos, from the largest scale all the way down to the smallest scale ....
", so that the twelve signs are held to represent twelve basic personality types or characteristic modes of expression.

In Western
Western astrology

Western astrology is the system of astrology most popular in Western countries. Western astrology originated in Babylonian astrology during the 2nd millennium BC, from where it spread to much of the world....
 and Indian astrology, the twelve signs are associated with constellations, while in Chinese astrology
Chinese astrology

Chinese astrology is based on the astronomy and traditional calendars. The Chinese astrology does not calculate the positions of the sun, moon and planets at the time of birth....
 there is no connection with constellations, as it is simply the line of the equator that is divided into twelve equal segments.

In Western and Asian astrology, the emphasis is on space, and the movement of the sun, moon and planets
Planets in astrology

Planets in astrology have a meaning different from the modern Astronomy understanding of Definition of planet. Astrology utilises the ancient geocentric model of the universe in its calculations and thus employs the term in its original geocentric sense....
 in the sky through each of the zodiac signs. In Chinese astrology, by contrast, the emphasis is on time, with the zodiac operating on cycles of years, months, and hours of the day. A common feature of all three traditions however, is the significance of the ascendant
Ascendant

The ascendant , or rising sign, is the Astrological sign sign and degree that was ascending on the eastern horizon at the specific time and location of an event....
 or rising sign, namely the zodiac sign that is rising (due to the rotation of the earth) on the eastern horizon at the moment of a person's birth.

Western zodiac signs

The signs affect the energies of each planet in a characteristic way when it enters each sign (though due consideration will also be given to other conditions within the astrological chart such as the effect of aspects to other planets, and the house
House (astrology)

Most Horoscopic astrology systems divide the horoscope into a number of houses whose positions depend on time and location rather than on date....
 in which each planet falls). Each sign is associated with one of the classical element
Classical element

Many ancient philosophy used a set of archetype classical elements to explain patterns in nature. In this context, the word element refers to a chemical substance that is either a chemical compound or a mixture of chemical compounds , rather than a chemical element of modern physical science....
s (fire, earth, air, or water) and one of the three qualities or modalities (cardinal, fixed, or mutable). It is also associated with an area of concern: personal, social, or universal.

Zodiac symbolism

Astro Signs
This table shows the zodiac names in Latin with their English translation. It also shows the element and quality associated with each sign.
SignEnglish nameElementQuality
AriesThe RamFireCardinal
TaurusThe BullEarthFixed
GeminiThe TwinsAirMutable
CancerThe CrabWaterCardinal
LeoThe LionFireFixed
VirgoThe VirginEarthMutable
LibraThe ScalesAirCardinal
ScorpioThe ScorpionWaterFixed
SagittariusThe ArcherFireMutable
CapricornThe Sea-goatEarthCardinal
AquariusThe Water CarrierAirFixed
PiscesThe Two FishWaterMutable


The twelve signs


In Western astrology the zodiac of twelve sign represents twelve types of personality. The zodiac traditionally begins with the sign of the Aries. The following are the twelve zodiac signs in order.

  • Aries
    - Aries
    Aries (astrology)

    Aries, the domestic sheep, is the first astrological sign in the Zodiac, originating from the Aries . In western astrology, this sign is no longer aligned with the constellation as a result of the Precession ....
     (The Ram) (cardinal, fire, personal): In astrology Aries is ruled by the planet Mars
    Planets in astrology

    Planets in astrology have a meaning different from the modern Astronomy understanding of Definition of planet. Astrology utilises the ancient geocentric model of the universe in its calculations and thus employs the term in its original geocentric sense....
    . The sun sign
    Sun (astrology)

    The sun is considered a very important part of astrology. It, as well as the Moon , are the most important of the Planets in astrology. In Roman mythology the sun was represented by Apollo, the god of light and Helios the god of the sun....
     dates for Aries are March 21 — April 19.


  • Taurus
    - Taurus
    Taurus (astrology)

    Taurus is the second astrological sign in the Zodiac, originating from the Taurus . In western astrology, this sign is no longer aligned with the constellation as a result of the Precession ....
     (The Bull) (fixed, earth, personal): In astrology Taurus is ruled by the planet Venus
    Planets in astrology

    Planets in astrology have a meaning different from the modern Astronomy understanding of Definition of planet. Astrology utilises the ancient geocentric model of the universe in its calculations and thus employs the term in its original geocentric sense....
     and for a few modern astrologers, the dwarf planet Ceres
    Planets in astrology

    Planets in astrology have a meaning different from the modern Astronomy understanding of Definition of planet. Astrology utilises the ancient geocentric model of the universe in its calculations and thus employs the term in its original geocentric sense....
    . The sun sign
    Sun (astrology)

    The sun is considered a very important part of astrology. It, as well as the Moon , are the most important of the Planets in astrology. In Roman mythology the sun was represented by Apollo, the god of light and Helios the god of the sun....
     dates for Taurus are April 20 — May 20.


  • Gemini
    - Gemini
    Gemini (astrology)

    Gemini is the third astrological sign in the Zodiac, originating from the Gemini . In western astrology, this sign is no longer aligned with the constellation as a result of the Precession ....
      (The Twins) (mutable, air, personal): In astrology Gemini is ruled by the planet Mercury
    Planets in astrology

    Planets in astrology have a meaning different from the modern Astronomy understanding of Definition of planet. Astrology utilises the ancient geocentric model of the universe in its calculations and thus employs the term in its original geocentric sense....
    . The sun sign
    Sun (astrology)

    The sun is considered a very important part of astrology. It, as well as the Moon , are the most important of the Planets in astrology. In Roman mythology the sun was represented by Apollo, the god of light and Helios the god of the sun....
     dates for Gemini are May 21 — June 21.


  • Cancer
    - Cancer
    Cancer (astrology)

    Cancer is the fourth astrological sign in the Zodiac, originating from the Cancer . In western astrology, this sign is no longer aligned with the constellation as a result of the Precession ....
      (The Crab) (cardinal, water, personal): In astrology Cancer is ruled by the Moon
    Planets in astrology

    Planets in astrology have a meaning different from the modern Astronomy understanding of Definition of planet. Astrology utilises the ancient geocentric model of the universe in its calculations and thus employs the term in its original geocentric sense....
    . The sun sign
    Sun (astrology)

    The sun is considered a very important part of astrology. It, as well as the Moon , are the most important of the Planets in astrology. In Roman mythology the sun was represented by Apollo, the god of light and Helios the god of the sun....
     dates for Cancer are June 22 — July 22.


  • Leo
    - Leo
    Leo (astrology)

    Leo is the fifth astrological sign of the Zodiac, originating from the Leo . In western astrology, this sign is no longer aligned with the constellation as a result of the Precession ....
      (The Lion) (fixed, fire, social): In astrology Leo is ruled by the Sun
    Planets in astrology

    Planets in astrology have a meaning different from the modern Astronomy understanding of Definition of planet. Astrology utilises the ancient geocentric model of the universe in its calculations and thus employs the term in its original geocentric sense....
    . The sun sign
    Sun (astrology)

    The sun is considered a very important part of astrology. It, as well as the Moon , are the most important of the Planets in astrology. In Roman mythology the sun was represented by Apollo, the god of light and Helios the god of the sun....
     dates for Leo are July 23 — August 22.


  • Virgo
    - Virgo
    Virgo (astrology)

    Virgo is the sixth astrological sign in the Zodiac, originating from the Virgo . In western astrology, the sign is no longer aligned with the constellation as a result of the Precession ....
      (The Virgin) (mutable, earth, social): There is some debate in regards to a modern ruler of this sign with Chiron, Pallas, Vesta and Ceres
    Planets in astrology

    Planets in astrology have a meaning different from the modern Astronomy understanding of Definition of planet. Astrology utilises the ancient geocentric model of the universe in its calculations and thus employs the term in its original geocentric sense....
     often considered candidate by some modern astrologers, but the planet Mercury
    Planets in astrology

    Planets in astrology have a meaning different from the modern Astronomy understanding of Definition of planet. Astrology utilises the ancient geocentric model of the universe in its calculations and thus employs the term in its original geocentric sense....
     is typically used as the default by tradition
    Thema Mundi

    The Thema Mundi was a mythical horoscope used in Hellenistic astrology that shows the believed positions of the seven visible planets at the beginning of the universe....
     pending a consensus among modern practitioners; but no one knows if or when this will be. The sun sign
    Sun (astrology)

    The sun is considered a very important part of astrology. It, as well as the Moon , are the most important of the Planets in astrology. In Roman mythology the sun was represented by Apollo, the god of light and Helios the god of the sun....
     dates for Virgo are August 23 — September 22.


  • Libra
    - Libra
    Libra (astrology)

    Libra is the seventh astrological sign in the Zodiac, originating from the Libra . In western astrology, this sign is no longer aligned with the constellation as a result of the Precession ....
      (The Scales) (cardinal, air, social): In astrology Libra is ruled by the planet Venus
    Planets in astrology

    Planets in astrology have a meaning different from the modern Astronomy understanding of Definition of planet. Astrology utilises the ancient geocentric model of the universe in its calculations and thus employs the term in its original geocentric sense....
    . The sun sign
    Sun (astrology)

    The sun is considered a very important part of astrology. It, as well as the Moon , are the most important of the Planets in astrology. In Roman mythology the sun was represented by Apollo, the god of light and Helios the god of the sun....
     dates for Libra are September 23 — October 23.


  • Scorpio
    - Scorpio
    Scorpio (astrology)

    Scorpio is the eighth astrological sign in the Zodiac, originating from the Scorpius. In western astrology, the sign is no longer aligned with the constellation as a result of the Precession ....
      (The Scorpion) (fixed, water, social): In astrology Scorpio is ruled by the planets Mars
    Planets in astrology

    Planets in astrology have a meaning different from the modern Astronomy understanding of Definition of planet. Astrology utilises the ancient geocentric model of the universe in its calculations and thus employs the term in its original geocentric sense....
     and Pluto
    Planets in astrology

    Planets in astrology have a meaning different from the modern Astronomy understanding of Definition of planet. Astrology utilises the ancient geocentric model of the universe in its calculations and thus employs the term in its original geocentric sense....
    . The sun sign
    Sun (astrology)

    The sun is considered a very important part of astrology. It, as well as the Moon , are the most important of the Planets in astrology. In Roman mythology the sun was represented by Apollo, the god of light and Helios the god of the sun....
     dates for Scorpio are October 24 — November 21.


  • Sagittarius
    - Sagittarius
    Sagittarius (astrology)

    Sagittarius is the ninth astrological sign in the Zodiac, originating from the Sagittarius . In western astrology, the sign is no longer aligned with the constellation as a result of the Precession ....
      (The Archer) (mutable, fire, universal): In astrology Sagittarius is ruled by the planet Jupiter
    Planets in astrology

    Planets in astrology have a meaning different from the modern Astronomy understanding of Definition of planet. Astrology utilises the ancient geocentric model of the universe in its calculations and thus employs the term in its original geocentric sense....
    . The sun sign
    Sun (astrology)

    The sun is considered a very important part of astrology. It, as well as the Moon , are the most important of the Planets in astrology. In Roman mythology the sun was represented by Apollo, the god of light and Helios the god of the sun....
     dates for Sagittarius are November 22 — December 21


  • Capricorn
    - Capricorn
    Capricorn (astrology)

    Capricorn is the tenth astrological sign in the Zodiac, originating from the Capricornus. In western astrology, this sign is no longer aligned with the constellation as a result of the Precession ....
      (The Sea-goat) (cardinal, earth, universal): In astrology Capricorn is ruled by the planet Saturn
    Planets in astrology

    Planets in astrology have a meaning different from the modern Astronomy understanding of Definition of planet. Astrology utilises the ancient geocentric model of the universe in its calculations and thus employs the term in its original geocentric sense....
    . The sun sign
    Sun (astrology)

    The sun is considered a very important part of astrology. It, as well as the Moon , are the most important of the Planets in astrology. In Roman mythology the sun was represented by Apollo, the god of light and Helios the god of the sun....
     dates for Capricorn are December 22 — January 19.


  • Aquarius
    - Aquarius
    Aquarius (astrology)

    name= Aquarius| image= Aquarius.svg| Symbol= Water Bearer| Tropical Start Date= January 20| Tropical Finish Date= February 19| Sidereal Start Date= February 15...
      (The Water Carrier) (fixed, air, universal): In astrology Aquarius is ruled by the planets Saturn
    Planets in astrology

    Planets in astrology have a meaning different from the modern Astronomy understanding of Definition of planet. Astrology utilises the ancient geocentric model of the universe in its calculations and thus employs the term in its original geocentric sense....
     and Uranus
    Planets in astrology

    Planets in astrology have a meaning different from the modern Astronomy understanding of Definition of planet. Astrology utilises the ancient geocentric model of the universe in its calculations and thus employs the term in its original geocentric sense....
    . The sun sign
    Sun (astrology)

    The sun is considered a very important part of astrology. It, as well as the Moon , are the most important of the Planets in astrology. In Roman mythology the sun was represented by Apollo, the god of light and Helios the god of the sun....
     dates for Aquarius are January 20 — February 19.


  • Pisces
    - Pisces
    Pisces (astrology)

    Pisces is the twelfth astrological sign in the Zodiac, which originates from the Pisces . In western astrology this sign is no longer aligned with the constellation because of the Precession ....
      (The Fish) (mutable, water, universal): In astrology Pisces is ruled by the planets Jupiter
    Planets in astrology

    Planets in astrology have a meaning different from the modern Astronomy understanding of Definition of planet. Astrology utilises the ancient geocentric model of the universe in its calculations and thus employs the term in its original geocentric sense....
     and Neptune
    Planets in astrology

    Planets in astrology have a meaning different from the modern Astronomy understanding of Definition of planet. Astrology utilises the ancient geocentric model of the universe in its calculations and thus employs the term in its original geocentric sense....
    . The sun sign
    Sun (astrology)

    The sun is considered a very important part of astrology. It, as well as the Moon , are the most important of the Planets in astrology. In Roman mythology the sun was represented by Apollo, the god of light and Helios the god of the sun....
     dates for Pisces are February 20 — March 20


The four elements


Each sign is associated one of the classical element
Classical element

Many ancient philosophy used a set of archetype classical elements to explain patterns in nature. In this context, the word element refers to a chemical substance that is either a chemical compound or a mixture of chemical compounds , rather than a chemical element of modern physical science....
s (water, fire, earth and air.) Fire and Air signs are positive
Positive sign

In western astrology, a positive, diurnal or masculine sign refers to any of the six odd-numbered signs of the zodiac: Aries , Gemini , Leo , Libra , Sagittarius or Aquarius ....
 or extrovert, masculine signs; while Water and Earth signs are negative
Negative sign

In western astrology, a negative, receptive, nocturnal, passive or feminine sign refers to any of the six even-numbered signs of the zodiac: Taurus , Cancer , Virgo , Scorpio , Capricorn or Pisces ....
, introvert, feminine signs.

  • Fire Signs--Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius-- Fire represents one's desires and creative energies.


  • Earth Signs--Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn-- Earth represents one's material resources, environment and possessions.


  • Air Signs--Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius-- Air represents the intellect and one's ability to reason and communicate.


  • Water Signs--Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces-- Water represents imagination, human feelings and one's ability to love and sustain.


In various belief systems, four is considered an earthly number, there being four elements. Water, Air, Fire, and Earth. Three is considered a divine number, and there are three qualities: Cardinal, Fixed, and Mutable. Three plus four equals seven, a number often signifying the union of heaven and earth and the deliverance of our people.

The Three Qualities


The Qualities assign the Signs into Quadruplicities, three groups of four. They are occasionally referred to as crosses because each quality forms a cross when drawn across the zodiac. Christian astrology relates the three qualities to the three aspects of God in the trinity.

  • Cardinal sign
    Cardinal sign

    In astrology, a "cardinal sign" is a sign of the zodiac that initiates a change of temperate zone season when the Sun makes its annual passage into them....
    s (Aries, Cancer, Libra and Capricorn) are associated with initiation and creativity.


  • Fixed sign
    Fixed sign

    In astrology, there are four fixed signs.Fixed Signs are at the height of the four seasons. Fixed Signs are associated with stamina, perseverance and strength and said to be, by nature, inert....
    s (Taurus, Leo, Scorpio and Aquarius) are associated with focus, powerful concentration, individuality and determination.


  • Mutable sign
    Mutable sign

    In astrology, the mutable signs are a subgroup of the zodiac. They are Gemini , Virgo , Sagittarius and Pisces . The mutable signs straddle two temperate zone seasons, encompassing an inherent duality in its symbolism....
    s (Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius and Pisces) are associated with resourcefulness, holism and adaptability.


Additional classifications


While knowing the element and quality of a sign is sufficient to define it, several other groupings can be used for those interested in better understanding their symbolism. The most common is a sequential cycle detailed below. Although most commonly used to define planets, it is valid for signs as well. This cycle has been used as a metaphorical descriptor of the process of birth, development, and death, of humans, societies, or even humanity.

  • Personal Signs - Aries, Taurus, Gemini, and Cancer - are principally aware of and concerned with the self.


  • Interpersonal Signs - Leo, Virgo, Libra, and Scorpio - are principally aware of and concerned with others, and sociality.


  • Transpersonal Signs - Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, Pisces - are principally aware of and concerned with humanity.


Planetary rulerships


In traditional Western astrology
History of astrology

The history of Astrology encompasses a great span of human history and many cultures. The belief in a connection between the cosmos and terrestrial matters has also played an important part in human history....
, each sign is ruled by one and only one of the seven visible planet
Planet

A planet , as 2006 definition of planet by the International Astronomical Union , is a celestial body orbiting a star or Stellar evolution#Stellar remnants that is massive enough to be rounded by its own gravity, is not massive enough to cause thermonuclear fusion, and has cleared the neighbourhood of planetesimals....
s (note that in astrology
Astrology

Astrology is a group of systems, traditions, and beliefs which hold that the relative positions of astronomical object and related details can provide useful information about personality, human affairs, and other terrestrial matters....
, the Sun and Moon are termed The Lights by astrologers, while the other bodies are called planet
Planet

A planet , as 2006 definition of planet by the International Astronomical Union , is a celestial body orbiting a star or Stellar evolution#Stellar remnants that is massive enough to be rounded by its own gravity, is not massive enough to cause thermonuclear fusion, and has cleared the neighbourhood of planetesimals....
s, which literally means wanderers, i.e. wandering stars as opposed to the fixed stars). The traditional rulerships are as follows: Aries
Aries (astrology)

Aries, the domestic sheep, is the first astrological sign in the Zodiac, originating from the Aries . In western astrology, this sign is no longer aligned with the constellation as a result of the Precession ....
 (Mars
MARS

In cryptography, MARS is a block cipher that was IBM's submission to the Advanced Encryption Standard process. MARS was selected as an AES finalist in August 1999, after the AES2 conference in March 1999, where it was voted as the fifth and last finalist algorithm....
), Taurus
Taurus (astrology)

Taurus is the second astrological sign in the Zodiac, originating from the Taurus . In western astrology, this sign is no longer aligned with the constellation as a result of the Precession ....
 (Venus
Venus

Venus is the second-closest planet to the Sun, orbiting it every 224.7 Earth days. The planet is named after Venus , the Roman mythology goddess of love....
), Gemini
Gemini (astrology)

Gemini is the third astrological sign in the Zodiac, originating from the Gemini . In western astrology, this sign is no longer aligned with the constellation as a result of the Precession ....
 (Mercury
Mercury (planet)

Mercury is the innermost and smallest planet in the Solar System, orbiting the Sun once every 88 days. The orbit of Mercury has the highest Orbital eccentricity of all the Solar System planets, and it has the smallest axial tilt....
), Cancer
Cancer (astrology)

Cancer is the fourth astrological sign in the Zodiac, originating from the Cancer . In western astrology, this sign is no longer aligned with the constellation as a result of the Precession ....
 (Moon
Moon

The Moon is Earth's only natural satellite and the List of natural satellites by diameter satellite in the Solar System. The average centre-to-centre distance from the Earth to the Moon is km, about thirty times the diameter of the Earth....
), Leo
Leo (astrology)

Leo is the fifth astrological sign of the Zodiac, originating from the Leo . In western astrology, this sign is no longer aligned with the constellation as a result of the Precession ....
 (Sun
Sun

The Sun , a G V star, is the star at the center of the Solar System. The Earth and other matter orbit the Sun, which by itself accounts for about 98.6% of the Solar System's mass....
), Virgo
Virgo (astrology)

Virgo is the sixth astrological sign in the Zodiac, originating from the Virgo . In western astrology, the sign is no longer aligned with the constellation as a result of the Precession ....
 (Mercury
Mercury (planet)

Mercury is the innermost and smallest planet in the Solar System, orbiting the Sun once every 88 days. The orbit of Mercury has the highest Orbital eccentricity of all the Solar System planets, and it has the smallest axial tilt....
), Libra
Libra (astrology)

Libra is the seventh astrological sign in the Zodiac, originating from the Libra . In western astrology, this sign is no longer aligned with the constellation as a result of the Precession ....
 (Venus
Venus

Venus is the second-closest planet to the Sun, orbiting it every 224.7 Earth days. The planet is named after Venus , the Roman mythology goddess of love....
), Scorpio
Scorpio (astrology)

Scorpio is the eighth astrological sign in the Zodiac, originating from the Scorpius. In western astrology, the sign is no longer aligned with the constellation as a result of the Precession ....
 (Mars
MARS

In cryptography, MARS is a block cipher that was IBM's submission to the Advanced Encryption Standard process. MARS was selected as an AES finalist in August 1999, after the AES2 conference in March 1999, where it was voted as the fifth and last finalist algorithm....
), Sagittarius
Sagittarius (astrology)

Sagittarius is the ninth astrological sign in the Zodiac, originating from the Sagittarius . In western astrology, the sign is no longer aligned with the constellation as a result of the Precession ....
 (Jupiter
Jupiter

Jupiter is the fifth planet from the Sun and the Solar system by size planet within the Solar System. It is two and a half times as massive as all of the other planets in our Solar System combined....
), Capricorn
Capricorn (astrology)

Capricorn is the tenth astrological sign in the Zodiac, originating from the Capricornus. In western astrology, this sign is no longer aligned with the constellation as a result of the Precession ....
 (Saturn
Saturn

Saturn is the sixth planet from the Sun and the second largest planet in the Solar System, after Jupiter. Saturn, along with Jupiter, Uranus and Neptune, is classified as a gas giant....
), Aquarius
Aquarius (astrology)

name= Aquarius| image= Aquarius.svg| Symbol= Water Bearer| Tropical Start Date= January 20| Tropical Finish Date= February 19| Sidereal Start Date= February 15...
 (Uranus
Uranus

Uranus is the seventh planet from the Sun and the third-largest and fourth most massive planet in the Solar System. It is named after the ancient Greek deity of the sky Uranus the father of Kronos and grandfather of Zeus ....
), Pisces
Pisces (astrology)

Pisces is the twelfth astrological sign in the Zodiac, which originates from the Pisces . In western astrology this sign is no longer aligned with the constellation because of the Precession ....
 (Jupiter
Jupiter

Jupiter is the fifth planet from the Sun and the Solar system by size planet within the Solar System. It is two and a half times as massive as all of the other planets in our Solar System combined....
).

Many modern, psychologically-oriented astrologers believe that Uranus
Uranus

Uranus is the seventh planet from the Sun and the third-largest and fourth most massive planet in the Solar System. It is named after the ancient Greek deity of the sky Uranus the father of Kronos and grandfather of Zeus ....
 is the ruler or co-ruler of Aquarius
Aquarius (astrology)

name= Aquarius| image= Aquarius.svg| Symbol= Water Bearer| Tropical Start Date= January 20| Tropical Finish Date= February 19| Sidereal Start Date= February 15...
 instead of Saturn, Neptune
NEPTUNE

=Overview=The project, along with sister project, VENUS, offers a unique approach to ocean science. Traditionally, ocean scientists have relied on infrequent ship cruises or space-based satellites to carry out their research....
 is the ruler or co-ruler of Pisces
Pisces (astrology)

Pisces is the twelfth astrological sign in the Zodiac, which originates from the Pisces . In western astrology this sign is no longer aligned with the constellation because of the Precession ....
 instead of Jupiter, and that Pluto
Pluto

Pluto , Minor planet names Pluto, is the second-largest known dwarf planet in the Solar System and the tenth-largest body observed directly orbiting the Sun....
 is the ruler or co-ruler of Scorpio
Scorpio (astrology)

Scorpio is the eighth astrological sign in the Zodiac, originating from the Scorpius. In western astrology, the sign is no longer aligned with the constellation as a result of the Precession ....
 instead of Mars (with other modern astrologers claiming that Pluto rules Aries and not Mars). Some other astrologers believe that the dwarf planet Ceres may be the ruler of Virgo
Virgo (astrology)

Virgo is the sixth astrological sign in the Zodiac, originating from the Virgo . In western astrology, the sign is no longer aligned with the constellation as a result of the Precession ....
, while other group of modern astrologers acclaim that Ceres is the ruler of Taurus
Taurus (astrology)

Taurus is the second astrological sign in the Zodiac, originating from the Taurus . In western astrology, this sign is no longer aligned with the constellation as a result of the Precession ....
 instead. Traditional astrology adheres to the rulerships system listed in the paragraph above, and the debate
Debate

Debate or debating is a formal method of interactive and representational argument. Debate is a broader form of argument than logical argument, which only examine the consistency from axiom, and factual argument, which only examine what is or isn't the case or rhetoric which is technique of persuasion....
 continues between those who consider the newly discovered planets as rulers or co-rulers of certain signs and those that do not.

Alternatively, some astrologers use the former planets Pallas, Vesta, Juno and Hygiea
Asteroids in astrology

Asteroids are used in astrology in a similar way to the planets. Asteroids are planetoids that orbit the Sun between Mars and Jupiter, and are not to be confused with Centaur or Trans-Neptunian Objects....
 in their delineations and rulerships, for example Vesta to Taurus and Pallas to Virgo.

Some astrologers do not even use the astrological signs at all (mostly Cosmobiologists and Uranian Astrologers/Hamburg
Hamburg

Hamburg is the second-largest city in Germany , and is the Largest cities of the European Union by population within city limits. The city is home to approximately 1.8 million people, while the Hamburg metropolitan area has more than 4.3 million inhabitants....
 School); therefore they do not take into account planetary rulerships and the essential dignities when interpreting an astrological chart.

Dignity and detriment, exaltation and fall


A traditional belief of astrology is the idea that the sun, moon and planets are more powerful and effective in some signs than others, because the basic nature of both is held to be in harmony. By contrast, the sun, moon and planets are held to find some signs to be weak or difficult to operate in because their natures are thought to be in conflict . The most important of these categories are Dignity, Detriment, Exaltation and Fall.

  • Dignity
    Essential dignity

    In astrology, essential dignity is the strength of a planet or point's zodiac position, weighed by only that position by sign and degree, or its essence....
     and Detriment : A planet
    Planets in astrology

    Planets in astrology have a meaning different from the modern Astronomy understanding of Definition of planet. Astrology utilises the ancient geocentric model of the universe in its calculations and thus employs the term in its original geocentric sense....
     is strengthened or dignified if it falls within the sign that it rules. In other words it is said to exercise Rulership
    Domicile (astrology)

    In astrology, a planet's domicile is the zodiac sign over which it has rulership. This is a separate concept from the Astrological house of the horoscope....
     of the sign. For example, the Moon in Cancer is considered "strong" (well-dignified). Seventeenth century astrologer William Lilly
    William Lilly

    William Lilly , was a famed England astrologer and occultist during his time. Lilly was particularly adept at interpreting the natal chart drawn up for horary astrology questions, as this was his speciality....
     compared rulership to a king on his throne, with considerable dignity. If a planet is in the sign opposite that which it rules (or is dignified), it is said to be weakened or in Detriment, for example the moon in Capricorn.


In traditional astrology, other levels of Dignity are recognised in addition to Rulership. These are known as Exaltation (see below), Triplicity
Triplicity

In astrology, a triplicity is a group of three signs belonging to the same classical element....
 , Terms or bounds
Terms or bounds

In astrology, the terms or bounds refer to an essential dignity in which unequal segments of every astrological sign have internal ruling planet which affect the power and integrity of each planet in a natal chart....
, and Face or Decan
Decan

In astrology, a decan is the subdivision of a sign.In order to give fuller interpretation to the Zodiac Signs, ancient astrologers subdivided each Sign into periods of approximately ten days....
 , which together are known as describing a planet's Essential dignity
Essential dignity

In astrology, essential dignity is the strength of a planet or point's zodiac position, weighed by only that position by sign and degree, or its essence....
, the quality or ability to give of one's true nature. Contemporary traditional astrologers like John Frawley or J Lee Lehman explain further on the concept of Essential Dignity.

  • Exaltation
    Exaltation (astrology)

    In astrology, exaltation is one of the five essential dignity of a planet. Each of the seven traditional planets has its exaltation in one zodiac Astrological sign....
     and Fall
    Astrological fall

    In astrology, the fall of a planet is the sign or "zoidion" which is opposite that planet's sign of exaltation .Planets in fall are uncomfortable and weak, having much less power to assert their own identity....
     : In addition, a planet is also strengthened when it is in its sign of Exaltation. In traditional horary astrology, Exaltation denotes a level of dignity somewhat exaggerated compared to rulership. Exaltation was considered to give the planet (or what it signified in a horary chart) dignity, with the metaphor of an honoured guest - who is the centre of attention but the extent of their ability to act is limited. Examples of planets in their Exaltation are: Saturn (Libra), Sun (Aries), Venus (Pisces), Moon (Taurus), Mercury (Virgo, although some disagree to this classification), Mars (Capricorn), Jupiter (Cancer). A planet in the opposite sign of its Exaltation is said to be in its Fall (e.g. Moon in Scorpio), and thus weakened, perhaps seemingly more so than Detriment. The Planet in fall is passively rejected or ignored by the sign that it's in. It can be likened to a mayor of a rival city trying to make suggestions to the hosting mayor for how he should run his city: The host mayor finds it difficult to trust him and can't see how his input could have relevancy to his city. The people of the city feel the same as their ruler. The result is impasse and failure on behalf of both mayors and the city.


In addition to Essential dignity, the traditional astrologer considers Accidental dignity
Accidental dignity

In astrology, accidental dignity occurs when a planet or other celestial body is posited in a house of its natural Domicile . The houses of the horoscope correspond with the signs of the zodiac, so accidental rulerships are as follows:-...
 of planets. This is placement by house in the chart under examination. Accidental dignity describes the planet's "ability to act". So we might have, for example, Moon in Cancer, dignified by rulership, is placed in the 12th house it would have little scope to express its good nature. The 12th is a cadent house as are the 3rd, 6th and 9th and planets in these houses are considered weak or afflicted. On the other hand, Moon in the 1st, 4th, 7th or 10th would be more able to act as these are Angular houses. Planets in Succedent houses of the chart (2nd, 5th, 8th, 11th) are generally considered to be of medium ability to act. Besides Accidental Dignity, there are a range of Accidental Debilities, such as retrogradation, Under the Sun's Beams, Combust, and so forth.

Planetary dignity



Jyotish or Indian zodiac signs

Jyotish astrology recognises twelve zodiac signs, or Rashis:

Nakshatras


The twelve signs of the zodiac are not given the same prominence in Indian astrology that they are in the Western tradition. Instead the emphasis is on the system of 27 (or 28) nakshatras or lunar mansions, which have been used in Indian astrology since Vedic times. The nakshatras consist of equal divisions of the moon's path along the ecliptic and function in a similar way to the signs of the zodiac in that they represent different personality types. It is considered that the position of the moon in a particular nakshatra at the time of person's birth will give a strong indication of that individual's character and of the kind of path they will follow throughout life.

Chinese zodiac signs

Unlike the Western or Indian zodiacs, the Chinese zodiac signs are not derived from constellations, and are not assigned to sections of the ecliptic. Instead, Chinese astrological signs operate on cycles of years, lunar months, and two-hour periods of the day (also known as shichen). A particular feature of the Chinese zodiac is its operation in a sixty year cycle
Sexagenary cycle

The China sexagenary cycle , also known as Stems-Branches , is a cyclic numeral system of 60 combinations of the two basic cycles, the 10 Heavenly Stems and the 12 Earthly Branches ....
 in combination with the five elements of Chinese astrology (Wood
Wood (classical element)

Tree, traditionally translated as Wood, is the growing of the matter, or the matter's growing stage. Tree is the first one of Wu Xing. Tree is yang in character, it stands for Spring , the east, the planet Planets in astrology#Classical planets, the color green, wind, and Qing Long in Four Symbols....
, Fire
Fire (classical element)

Fire has been an important part of many cultures and religions, from pre-history to modern day, and was vital to the development of civilization....
, Earth
Earth (classical element)

Earth, home and origin of humanity, has often been worshipped in its own right with its own unique spiritual tradition....
, Metal
Metal (classical element)

Metal is the decline of the matter, or the matter's decline stage. Metal is the forth one of Wu Xing.Metal is yin in character, its motion is inwards and its energy is contracting....
, and Water
Water (classical element)

Water has been important to all peoples of the earth, and it is rich in spiritual tradition....
).

Zodiac symbolism

The following table shows the twelve signs and their attributes.

SignYin/YangDirectionSeasonFixed ElementTrine
RatYangNorthWinterWater1st
OxYinNorth north eastWinterEarth2nd
TigerYangEast north eastSpringWood3rd
RabbitYinEastSpringWood4th
DragonYangEast south eastSpringWood1st
SnakeYinSouth south eastSummerFire2nd
HorseYangSouthSummerFire3rd
SheepYinSouth south westSummerFire4th
MonkeyYangWest south westAutumnMetal1st
RoosterYinWestAutumnMetal2nd
DogYangWest north westAutumnMetal3rd
PigYinNorth North WestWinterWater4th


The twelve signs

China 24 Cardinal Directions
In Chinese astrology the zodiac of twelve animal sign represents twelve different types of personality. The zodiac traditionally begins with the sign of the Rat, and there are many stories about the Origins of the Chinese Zodiac
Origins of the Chinese Zodiac

According to one legend, in the sixth century B.C. the Jade Emperor invited all the animals in creation to a race, only twelve showed up: the Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Lamb, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig, and according to their places in the race, the Jade Emperor had given them each a number starting with the Rat who was the wi...
 which explain why this is so. When the twelve zodiac signs are part of the sixty year calendar in combination with the five elements, they are traditionally called the twelve earthly branches
Earthly Branches

The Earthly Branches provide one China system for reckoning time.This system was built from observations of the orbit of Jupiter. Chinese astronomers divided the celestial circle into 12 sections to follow the orbit of Su?xing ....
. The following are the twelve zodiac signs in order.

  1. ? Rat
    Rat (zodiac)

    The Rat was welcomed in ancient times as a protector and bringer of material prosperity. It is an animal associated with wealth, charm, and order, yet also associated with aggression, death, war, the occult, pestilence, and atrocities....
     (Yang, 1st Trine, Fixed Element Water): Rat years include 1900, 1912, 1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008. The month of the Rat is Dec 7 - Jan 5, and the hours of the Rat are 11pm - 1am.
  2. ? Ox
    Ox (zodiac)

    The Ox is one of the 12-year cycle of animals which appear in the Chinese zodiac related to the Chinese calendar. The Year of the Ox is denoted by the earthly branches character wiktionary:?....
     (Yin, 2nd Trine, Fixed Element Water): Ox years include 1901, 1913, 1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997. The month of the Ox is Jan 6 - Feb 3, and the hours of the Ox are 1am - 3am.
  3. ? Tiger
    Tiger (zodiac)

    The Tiger , associated with good fortune, power, and royalty, is viewed with both fear and respect. Their protection and wisdom is sought after....
     (Yang, 3rd Trine, Fixed Element Wood): Tiger years include 1902, 1914, 1926, 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998. The month of the Tiger is Feb 4 - Mar 5, and the hours of the Tiger are 3am - 5am.
  4. ? Rabbit
    Rabbit (zodiac)

    The Rabbit is the fourth animal in the 12-year cycle of the Chinese zodiac. According to traditional Chinese astrology, the Rabbit is quiet, reserved, retrospective, thoughtful and lucky....
     (Yin, 4th Trine, Fixed Element Wood): Rabbit Years include 1903, 1915, 1927, 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999. The month of the Rabbit is Mar 6 - Apr 4, and the hours of the Rabbit are 5am - 7am.
  5. ? Dragon
    Dragon (zodiac)

    The Dragon is the only mythical creature in the Chinese zodiac. In China, dragons are associated with strength, health, harmony, and good luck; they are placed above doors or on the tops of roofs to banish demons and evil spirits....
     (Yang, 1st Trine, Fixed Element Wood): Dragon years include 1904, 1916, 1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000. The month of the Dragon is Apr 5 - May 4, and the hours of the Dragon are 7am - 9am.
  6. ? Snake
    Snake (zodiac)

    The Snake is one of the 12-year cycle of animals which appear in the Chinese zodiac related to the Chinese calendar. The Year of the Snake is associated with the earthly branches symbol wiktionary:?....
     (Yin, 2nd Trine, Fixed Element Fire): Snake years include 1905, 1917, 1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001. The month of the Snake is May 5 - Jun 5, and the hours of the Snake are 9am - 11am.
  7. ? Horse
    Horse (zodiac)

    The Horse is the seventh of the 12 animals which appear in the Chinese zodiac related to the Chinese calendar. The Year of the Horse is associated with the earthly branches symbol wikt:?....
     (Yang, 3rd Trine, Fixed Element Fire): Horse years include 1906, 1918, 1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002. The month of the Horse is Jun 6 - Jul 6, and the hours of the Horse are 11am - 1pm.
  8. ? Sheep
    Sheep (zodiac)

    The Ram or Sheep is the eighth sign of the 12-year cycle of animals which appear in the Chinese zodiac related to the Chinese calendar. The Year of the Sheep is associated with the earthly branches symbol wikt:?....
     (Yin, 4th Trine, Fixed Element Fire): Sheep years include 1907, 1919, 1931, 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003. The month of the Sheep is Jul 7 - Aug 7, and the hours of the Sheep are 1pm - 3pm.
  9. ? Monkey
    Monkey (zodiac)

    The Monkey is one of the 12-year cycle of animals which appear in the Chinese zodiac related to the Chinese calendar. The Year of the Monkey is associated with the earthly branches symbol wikt:?....
     (Yang, 1st Trine, Fixed Element Metal): Monkey years include 1908, 1920, 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004. The month of the Monkey is Aug 8 - Sep 7, and the hours of the Monkey are 3pm - 5pm.
  10. ? Rooster
    Rooster (zodiac)

    The Rooster or Cock is one of the 12-year cycle of animals which appear in the Chinese zodiac related to the Chinese calendar. The Year of the Rooster is represented by the earthly branches character wiktionary:?....
     (Yin, 2nd Trine, Fixed Element Metal): Rooster years include 1909, 1921, 1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005. The month of the Rooster is Sep 8 - Oct 7 and the hours of the Rooster are 5pm - 7pm.
  11. ? Dog
    Dog (zodiac)

    The Dog is one of the 12-year cycle of animals which appear in the Chinese zodiac related to the Chinese calendar. The Year of the Dog is associated with the earthly branches symbol wikt:?....
     (Yang, 3rd Trine, Fixed Element Metal): Dog years include 1910, 1922, 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006. The month of the Dog is Oct 8 - Nov 7, and the hours of the Dog are 7pm - 9pm.
  12. ? Pig
    Pig (zodiac)

    Hai ...
     (Yin, 4th Trine, Fixed Element Water): Pig years include 1911, 1923, 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007. The month of the Pig is Nov 8 - Dec 6, and the hours of the Pig are 9pm - 11pm.


The four trines

The twelve animal signs are also broken into four categories of three signs each, known as trines

  • The First Trine
The first trine consists of the Rat, Dragon, and Monkey. These three signs are intense and powerful individuals, capable of great good or great evil.

  • The Second Trine
The second trine consists of the Ox, Snake, and Rooster. These three soul mates conquer life through endurance, application, and slow accumulation of energy.

  • The Third Trine
The third trine consists of the Tiger, Horse, and Dog. These three signs seek one another, and are like-minded in their pursuit of humanitarian causes.

  • The Fourth Trine
The fourth trine consists of the Rabbit, Sheep and Pig. The quest for these three signs is the aesthetic and beautiful in life.

The five elements


The elements differ in Chinese astrology from their Western counterparts: Air is not one of the elements as defined by the Chinese. Instead, Wood and Metal are elements alongside Earth, Fire and Water. In addition, the elements also govern various aspects of one's personality, and are assigned to various other things such as directions (North, South, East and West), colours, seasons and planets. The characteristics of the five elements are as follows:

  • Metal
    Metal (classical element)

    Metal is the decline of the matter, or the matter's decline stage. Metal is the forth one of Wu Xing.Metal is yin in character, its motion is inwards and its energy is contracting....
    : The metal person is rigid and resolute in expression and intense, with strong feelings. The direction associated with Metal is West, and the season is autumn, which makes it the fixed element for the animal signs Monkey, Rooster and Dog.


  • Water
    Water (classical element)

    Water has been important to all peoples of the earth, and it is rich in spiritual tradition....
    : The water person is a good communicator and persuader, intuitive and sympathetic to others and good at conveying feelings and emotions. The direction associated with Water is North, and the season is winter, which makes it the fixed element for the animal signs Pig, Rat and Ox.


  • Wood
    Wood (classical element)

    Tree, traditionally translated as Wood, is the growing of the matter, or the matter's growing stage. Tree is the first one of Wu Xing. Tree is yang in character, it stands for Spring , the east, the planet Planets in astrology#Classical planets, the color green, wind, and Qing Long in Four Symbols....
    : The wood person has high morals, is self confident, expansive and co-operative, with wide and varied interests. The direction associated with Wood is East, and the season is spring, which makes it the fixed element for the animal signs Tiger, Rabbit and Dragon.


  • Fire
    Fire (classical element)

    Fire has been an important part of many cultures and religions, from pre-history to modern day, and was vital to the development of civilization....
    : The fire person has leadership qualities, and is decisive, self confident, positive and assertive. The direction associated with Fire is South, and the season is summer, which makes it the fixed element for the animal signs Snake, Horse and Sheep.


  • Earth
    Earth (classical element)

    Earth, home and origin of humanity, has often been worshipped in its own right with its own unique spiritual tradition....
    : The earth person is functional, practical, solid, reliable, organized and methodical. The direction associated with Earth is the Centre. Some Chinese astrologers associate Earth with late summer.


The five elements operate together with the twelve animal signs in a sixty year
Sexagenary cycle

The China sexagenary cycle , also known as Stems-Branches , is a cyclic numeral system of 60 combinations of the two basic cycles, the 10 Heavenly Stems and the 12 Earthly Branches ....
 calendar. The five elements appear in the calendar in both their yin and yang forms and are known as the ten heavenly stems
Heavenly Stems

The ten Celestial Stems , sometimes known as Heavenly Stems, are the elements of an ancient China cyclic character numeral system: Jia , Yi , Bing , Ding , Wu , Ji , Geng , Xin , Ren , Gui ....
. When trying to calculate the relevant year of the cycle in relation to the Western calendar, an easy rule to follow is that years that end in an even number are yang, those that end with an odd number are yin. The cycle proceeds as follows:

  • If the year ends in 0 it is Yang Metal.
  • If the year ends in 1 it is Yin Metal.
  • If the year ends in 2 it is Yang Water.
  • If the year ends in 3 it is Yin Water.
  • If the year ends in 4 it is Yang Wood.
  • If the year ends in 5 it is Yin Wood.
  • If the year ends in 6 it is Yang Fire.
  • If the year ends in 7 it is Yin Fire.
  • If the year ends in 8 it is Yang Earth.
  • If the year ends in 9 it is Yin Earth.


See also

  • Astrology
    Astrology

    Astrology is a group of systems, traditions, and beliefs which hold that the relative positions of astronomical object and related details can provide useful information about personality, human affairs, and other terrestrial matters....
  • Age of Aquarius
    Age of Aquarius

    In astrology, the Age of Aquarius is one of the twelve astrological ages. According to astrologers, it is either the next age to come, or else it is the current age....
  • Zodiac
    Zodiac

    Zodiac denotes an annual cycle of twelve stations along the ecliptic, the apparent path of the Sun across the heavens through the constellations that divide the ecliptic into twelve equal zones of celestial longitude....
  • Astrological symbols
    Astrological symbols

    Astrological symbols are images used in various astrological systems to denote relevant objects. A number of such images are shown below....