Introduction

Astrology is a fascinating subject. While almost everyone knows his or her

astrological sign, they are not always familiar with the personal characteristics
associated with it. Those who turn their interest into more understanding of the
subject itself will gain some truly unique insights about themselves and others. I
have rarely encountered a person totally immune from wanting to know more
about astrology. The following paragraphs explain some of their most frequent
questions.

What is astrology?
Astrology is the study of cycles. The sun, moon, and planets move in their
own time and in their own space according to individual cycles. Similarly
ordained, the earth and all life upon its surface carry forward in complicated,
perhaps never-to-be-fully understood, patterns that make up the Grand Design of
the cosmos. The Greeks believed this enthusiastically. Some of the greatest
thinkers in the history of mankind did not at all think it unreasonable to study
planetary cycles in order to gain a better understanding of how mankind in
general and people as individuals, fit into the universal cosmos. The Greeks
assembled the body of knowledge upon which modern astrology is based. They
applied their advanced understanding of astronomy and mathematics to the
descriptions handed down from the astrologers/astronomers (there was no
distinction in those days) of ancient Egypt and Babylonia.

What does one’s astrological sign mean?

When people refer to their astrological sign, they are merely stating which sign
of the zodiac the sun was in when they were born.

Why is the sun's position so important in astrology?

As stars go with respect to size and brilliance, our sun is not a very impressive
specimen. However, in a universe incalculably cold and dark, it is fortunate for us
that the earth unfailingly continues to circle around this little spot of warmth and
light. Without it there would be no life. During the twelve months it takes to
make one complete orbit around the sun, the earth receives life-giving solar rays
from continually changing angles. This cyclical pattern produces the four
seasons. Birth, growth, maturity, and death; the cycle of the seasons is ordained
by the earth's relationship with the sun, and every individual life upon its surface
is in imitation of this pattern.

The date when the sun leaves one sign and enters another varies by just a day
or two from month to month, occurring sometime between the 20th and 23rd.
The astrological sign of those born during the one day when the sun moves into
the next sign is determined by the time they were born. For example, people
whose birth occurred on April 20th might be Aries, while others born on the very
 ii

same day will be Taurus if they came into the world after the sun entered the new
sign. Those born on or around these dates are often said to be on the cusp. What
this really means is that they are not sure if the sun had entered another sign on
the day of their birth. The confusion can easily be remedied. Many calendars and
almanacs list the date as well as the time when the sun enters a new sign each
month.

Doesn't astrology recognize that we all share the same traits?

Astrology reflects the principle that nothing in the universe is at once so simple
or so complicated as man himself, from the simple human traits inherent in all
humans at birth to the complexity of specific personality and behavior patterns of
a single individual. Desirable and undesirable characteristics repeat themselves
in the individuals of countless generations, appearing only slightly altered by the
history of changing circumstances. Specific traits indicated as belonging to one
astrological sign does not deny the fact that people born in any of the other eleven
signs also possess these traits. What it means is that hundreds of years of
recorded astrological observations have shown that certain traits are more
prominent in the personality and temperament of those born in one sign than in
another. That is the reason, for example, that moodiness becomes a trait
associated with one sign or loquaciousness the hallmark of another.

On what are the astrological sign descriptions based?

Certain signs share some traits. This can seem confusing unless you
understand how traits are classified. Astrology uses two general classifications to
explain how different signs can share the same characteristic. These two
classifications also focus on the true nature of each sign, as they are distinct from
each other. One classification is known as Elements, which divides the twelve
signs into four groups: Fire signs, Earth signs, Air signs and Water signs. The
other classification is known as Qualities, which divides the twelve signs into
three groups: Cardinal signs, Fixed signs, and Mutable signs.

Elements
Defining characteristics in terms of Elements is based on whether a
person's initial (elementary) reaction to everything in life is physical, pragmatic,
intellectual, or emotional. An individual's first reaction to things is an
instantaneous process. Describing it as though it occurs in slow motion makes it
easier for us to understand how one individual's primary reactions may differ
from another's, and how much the tendency of these responses influences the
way we think and the things we do.

The first element is Fire, represented by the signs Aries, Leo, and
Sagittarius.
 iii

For these people, the first reaction to everything is a physical one. They are the
ones most likely to "shoot first and ask questions later. " Before they assess the
practicality of their actions, before considering the emotional consequences, and
before intellectual perceptions have a chance to impose control Fire sign people
need to do something. The moment their interest is aroused, they charge into
battle unarmed. In their haste to do something important details may be
forgotten or disregarded. They can be unmindful of how their careless actions
may hurt or infringe on the rights of others. The positive side of their animated
natures is that fire signs possess great courage. They are willing to take chances
and do things others would not attempt. Their accomplishments can be legendary
if they learn to channel their energy constructively into worthwhile endeavors
and develop the patience to complete the projects they initiate. Fire sign people
are the most physically active. Aries likes to be active simply as a release of
energy. Leo wants to get around in order to enjoy the attention and sociable
companionship of others. Sagittarius loves the freedom that comes from being
physically independent.

The second element is Earth, represented by the signs Taurus, Virgo, and
Capricorn.

These individuals are invariably of a practical nature and seldom do anything

without a purpose. Before taking action that might be a waste of time, before
allowing reason and logic to present all sides of an issue (some of which may not
be of direct benefit to them), and before giving in to the sentimentality of
emotions, Earth signs assess everything in terms of their personal goals. They
expect some tangible reward or manifestation of gratefulness on the part of
others in recognition of their efforts. At times it is hard to convince Earth sign
personalities that everything cannot be measured in terms of its material worth.
At other times, the practical nature of the Earth sign is a valuable asset. Their eye
for value lets them see the worthiness of people as well as things that may not be
so readily apparent to others. They are remarkable at discovering ways to
conserve resources. They instinctively recognize and enjoy the material comforts
of life and don't mind expending energy in that direction. Earth signs are not
particularly motivated to do anything until they find it expedient to do so. Taurus
will doggedly pursue anything that fills a basic need or desire. Virgo patiently
tries to secure their own needs through service and responsibility to others,
though they are not above using guilt as a weapon to get what they want.
Capricorn will forego temporary needs and desires. They are in it for the long
haul. No matter how long it takes to get there, their goals are met when they are
put in charge and can do whatever they like.

The third element is Air, represented by the signs Gemini, Libra, and
Aquarius.

These individuals have an intellectual orientation to everything. Before taking

action that might be unnecessary, before practicality distracts their attention, and
before emotionalism can blur the facts, Air sign people focus their immediate
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attention on the available information in order to form a complete and unbiased

judgment. They get sidetracked looking for some lesson to be learned. Attracted
to all forms of education and communication, they are adept at making objective
decisions and impartial judgments. Caught up in their intellectual approach
however, they often fail to realize that no matter how rich the world of
imagination, there is no substitute for experiencing the physical and emotional
realities of life. In personal relationships, they have to remember that high-
mindedness is no excuse for lack of sentiment or physical action. In practical
matters, Air signs must learn that what works in theory may not work in reality.
They are usually the quickest to acquire communicative skills. Gemini wants to
find out what is going on. Libra does not like to be alone and therefore seeks the
companionship of others. Aquarius, inherently intrigued by people and society,
wants to be where others are gathered.

The fourth element is Water, represented by the signs Cancer, Scorpio,

and Pisces.

Those born in a Water sign always lead with their hearts. Before taking action
that might cause anxiety, before practicality imposes a limit on sentiment, and
before intellectual reason offers irrefutable evidence that their feelings are
unjustified, Water sign people react to everything on an emotional level. Feelings
dominate their decisions. They can retard their own growth and development by
giving in to feelings of self-pity or undue sentiment. On the other hand, when
they allow intelligence to curb sentimentality and sharpen intuitive faculties, they
can be unerring in their judgments.

Emotionalism can raise them to singular heights of inspiration and

achievement and also plunge them into the depths of degradation and despair.
These personalities must learn to curb possessiveness and emotional
dependency. Water signs are the most sensitive. The emotional environment in
which they are raised plays a major role in determining their emotional and
mental health as adults. They tend to be shy and in need of constant reassurance.
Their willingness to do anything is largely a matter of how they are feeling at the
time. Cancer wants emotional satisfaction through home and family. Scorpio
seeks emotional satisfaction through manipulation and control, and Pisces seeks
emotional satisfaction on whatever physical, spiritual, or creative level they can
find.

Qualities

Defining characteristics in terms of Qualities is based on three basic attitudes

toward life. Does a person want to get things done, as do the Cardinal sign
personalities? Is a person too stubborn or fearful of changing the status quo, as
are the Fixed sign personalities? Or, is a person likely to go along with the
prevailing situation by adjusting to change, as are the Mutable sign personalities?
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The Cardinal signs are Aries, Cancer, Libra, and Capricorn.

People born in these signs are strong-willed and have a desire for
accomplishment. They are the doers, the movers and shakers in the world. Also
known as "executive" signs, Cardinal sign personalities like to be involved in
major projects and to take charge of whatever needs to be done.

The Fixed signs are Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, and Aquarius.

These personalities are cautious and tend to be extremely stubborn. Their

opinions and habits are not readily altered. They do not appreciate unexpected,
sudden, or imposed changes. The tenacity of these personalities is a valuable
asset in research or other areas where patience and stamina are required. Their
cautious nature prevents unnecessary waste of their time, talent, and resources.

The Mutable signs are Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, and Pisces.

These individuals have remarkable ability to adapt to all kinds of situations,

making it easy for others to live and work with them. Their adaptability makes
Mutable sign people survivors. However, their willingness to constantly adjust to
the influence of other people's situations can seriously inhibit the growth and
development of their own talents and personalities.

Putting the Elements and Qualities Together

Adding the descriptive Elements and characteristic Qualities together is the
method that gives a unique personal profile to each of the astrological signs.

Aries is the Cardinal-Fire sign.

Aries people need to keep physically busy. They accomplish many things
simply because of their restless energy. They need to learn how to make
constructive use of their energetic efforts. The typical Aries urge is to take on
more projects than can be done reasonably well. Though others may find it
difficult to physically keep pace, they are attracted to the animation and spirit of
Aries personalities.

Cancer is the Cardinal-Water sign.

Cancerians get things done through the power of their emotional commitment.
Not only do they aggressively work to accomplish the goals inspired by their own
feelings, they also know how to appeal to the emotions of others. By making other
people feel like family members, Cancerians effectively inspire others to help get
projects accomplished. They have to learn how to reach an emotional balance
since they tend to be overly sensitive and moody.

Libra is the Cardinal-Air sign.

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Librans accomplish things because they intellectually evaluate what needs to

be done, and then they charm others into cooperating with them to achieve the
goal. By unselfishly sharing the success of accomplishment with those who
assisted, Librans continue to engender the cooperative efforts of others. They
have to learn how to deal with confrontations. Fear of hurting others or
avoidance of hostile situations can keep them from pursuing their goals.

Capricorn is the Cardinal-Earth sign.

Capricorns are natural goal setters. They willingly handle many tasks if it helps
them get what they want. Many things get accomplished simply because they
happen to be part of Capricorn's overall efforts to reach higher goals. They need
definitive guidelines. Rules and regulations provide structure they need for
establishing the pattern of their own actions. They must learn however, that the
end never justifies the means.

Taurus is the Fixed-Earth sign.

Taureans stubbornly cling to their own ideas and habits, and may fail to take
advantage of new ideas or situations simply because they cannot see their
practical use. They have to understand that while tenacity and a stable
temperament yield rewards in many endeavors, tolerance and flexibility are the
best assets when it comes to personal relationships.

Leo is the Fixed-Fire sign.

Leos stubbornly cling to their pride. They resent the indignity of altering their
opinions or behavior in front of or at the request of others. Their stubborn nature
makes it hard for them to accept that there is no virtue in giving what they want
to give rather than what may really be wanted or needed, and no reward in
misguided loyalty to those who are not worthy of it.

Scorpio is the Fixed-Water sign.

Scorpios stubbornly cling to emotional attachments. They rarely forget or

forgive emotional rejection. They have to learn that jealousy and possessiveness
are self-defeating. Rechanneling negative feelings and experiences into
constructive activities benefits others as well as themselves. No other sign has the
emotional strength of Scorpio.

Aquarius is the Fixed-Air sign.

Aquarians are born looking for ideologies to which they can stubbornly cling.
They refuse to budge whenever an issue involves what they believe to be a
"matter of principle. " As in the case of the Aquarian Abraham Lincoln, society
greatly benefits when these principles happen to be noble ones.
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Gemini is the Mutable-Air sign.

Using their communicative skills, Geminians adapt to any situation they

encounter. However, they must learn to speak with candor instead of simply
repeating what others want to hear. Clever-tongued Geminians develop the
amazing ability to obscure the facts in their stimulating and imaginative chatter.

Virgo is the Mutable-Earth sign.

Virgos adapt to different people and situations by finding ways to make

themselves useful. To hide their vulnerability, they focus attention on what
they're doing rather than who they are. To deflect attention away from
themselves, Virgos will also focus on other people by praising their talents and
virtues, or just as likely, by listing their faulty behavior or personal defects.

Sagittarius is the Mutable-Fire sign.

Restless energy and the need for personal independence keep Sagittarians
moving in many directions. They become experts at adapting to whatever culture
and clime happens to fit their current interest. Always ready to travel for business
or pleasure, and sometimes because of an overwhelming urge to escape (either
figuratively or literally), they are all too willing to bypass the confinements of
responsibility and work.

Pisces is the Mutable-Water sign.

Pisceans adapt emotionally to the influence of their environment. Often

painfully shy, they are adept at imitating the mannerisms of other people as a way
of hiding their own personality. Pisceans can too easily become victims of their
considerable ability to identify with the personality and problems of other people,
since it severely restricts the development of their own personality traits and
talents.

Why don't some people seem to fit their astrological sign?

There are two reasons why some people don't seem to fit the descriptive
characteristics of their astrological sign. In the first instance, they may not really
understand the entire astrological description of their sign and are basing their
opinion only on a few generalities. A more thorough explanation often reveals
that most individuals do demonstrate the inherent characteristics of their sun
sign. In the second instance, astrological interpretation is based on knowing the
complete horoscope of an individual that indicates where all the celestial bodies
were positioned at the time of birth. It will reveal how strongly an individual
exhibits the traits associated with his or her sun sign.
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After the sun's sign, the most important position is the sign in which the moon
was located at birth. For example, let's say at the time of birth the sun was in
Aries. The moon may also be in Aries at birth but it may just as easily be in any of
the other eleven astrological signs. The astrological sign position of the moon has
an important bearing on personality and temperament from an emotional point
of view. It describes how a person will emotionally handle the characteristics and
traits indicated by the position of the sun at birth. Many calendars and almanacs
list the daily lunar positions.

What is the difference between astrological sign and horoscope?

As previously explained, a person's astrological sign is determined simply by

the position of the sun at the time of birth. The horoscope, however, is literally a
map of the heavens showing the exact position of the sun, moon, and planets. It is
mathematically calculated using the exact date, hour, and location of an
individual's birth. Many people are born on the same date but at a different hour.
Many are born on the same date and in the same hour, but not in the same place.
An individual's horoscope is calculated using all three of these variables. Every
four-minute interval produces a slightly different chart, and even twins are rarely
born within such a narrow space of time. The horoscope is indeed a unique chart;
no two individuals have the same one. This is the reason why an astrologer can
define an individual's nature and temperament in a most subtle and personal
manner.
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Explanations and Legends of the

Glyphs in The Wheel
Zodiac Signs and Names The Planets
A Aries The Ram Q The Sun

Taurus The Bull R The Moon

B
C Gemini The Twins S Mercury

D Cancer The Crab T Venus

E Leo The Lion U Mars

F Virgo The Virgin V Jupiter

G Libra The Scales W Saturn

H Scorpio The Scorpion t Chiron

I Sagittarius The Archer X Uranus

J Capricorn The Goat Y Neptune

K Aquarius The Water- Z Pluto

Bearer
L Pisces The Fish < North Node

= South Node

M Retrograde

@ Part of Fortune
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The Zodiac Symbols

Aries: The Ram March 21-April 20
Ruler: Mars Physical correlations: Head, Blood, face Tarot Correspondent:
The Emperor Element: Fire and Quality: Cardinal MASCULINE
Taurus: The Bull April 21-May 20
Ruler: Venus Physical correlations: Neck, Nape, shoulders, and throat
Tarot Correspondent: The Hierophant Element: Earth and Quality: Fixed
FEMININE
Gemini: The Twins May 21-June 20
Ruler: Mercury Physical correlations: Lungs, bronchial tubes, collarbone,
arms and hands Tarot Correspondent: The Lovers Element: Air and Quality:
Mutable MASCULINE
Cancer: The Crab June 21-July22
Ruler: Moon Physical correlations: Stomach, female breasts, glands Tarot
Correspondent: The Chariot Element: Water and Quality: Cardinal FEMININE
Leo: The Lion July 23-August 22
Ruler: Sun Physical correlations: Heart, circulatory system, spinal
column Tarot Correspondent: Strength Element: Fire and Quality:
Fixed MASCULINE
Virgo: The Virgin August 23-September 22
Ruler: Mercury Physical correlations: Intestinal tract, metabolism, solar
plexus Tarot Correspondent: The Hermit Element: Earth and Quality: Mutable
FEMININE
Libra: The Scales September 23-October 22
Ruler: Venus Physical correlations: Kidneys, renal pelvis, bladder, skin
Tarot Correspondent: Justice Element: Air and Quality:
Cardinal MASCULINE
Scorpio: The Scorpion October23-November 21
Ruler: Mars Physical correlations: Genitals Tarot Correspondent:
Death Element: Water and Quality: Fixed FEMININE
Sagittarius: The Archer November 22-December 21
Ruler: Jupiter Physical correlations: Hips, thighs, liver and
gallbladder Tarot Correspondent: Temperance Element: Fire and Quality:
Mutable MASCULINE
Capricorn: The Goat December 22-January 20
Ruler: Saturn Physical correlations: Bone system, knees, nails Tarot
Correspondent: The Guardian Element: Earth and Quality:
Cardinal FEMININE
Aquarius: The Water-Carrier January 21-February 19
Ruler: Uranus Physical correlations: Lower leg, pancreas Tarot
Correspondent: The Star Element: Air and Quality: Fixed MASCULINE
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Pisces: The Fish February 20-March 20

Ruler: Neptune Physical correlations: Feet and ankles Tarot Correspondent:
The Moon Element: Water and Quality: Mutable FEMININE
The Planets
The Sun: Orbits the entire zodiac in one year. Stays on the average of one month
in each sign. The sun embodies your reflections on your own character and
personality development and how it occurs. Often your particular "path" or goal
is inherent in the characteristics of the Sun. Ruler of the Zodiac Sign Leo.
The Moon: Orbits the entire zodiac in 27 days. Stays on the average of about 2
days in each sign. The moon represents the inner nature of the self. This is where
all the unconscious and instinctive as well as intuitive reactions stem from. This
is often considered the characteristics of the "subconscious". Ruler of the Zodiac
Sign: Cancer.
Mercury: Orbits the entire zodiac in about 87 days. Remains in each Zodiac sign
on the average of 7 days. This planet stands for the mind and intellect as well as
communication. All the mental faculties are embodied within this planet's
characteristics. Some refer to it as the path that thought travels between the
unconscious mind and the conscious mind.
Mercury in Retrograde which happens about four times a year can wreak havoc
on signed contracts, author's drafts, computer systems, and just about anything
that has a mode of communication and commitment will need to be redone when
this tiny planet closest to the Sun appears Retrograde. Ruler of the Zodiac Signs:
Gemini and Virgo.
Venus: Orbits the entire zodiac in 225 days and remains in each sign on the
average of 19 days. This planet symbolizes love, feeling, peace and harmony in
relationships. Like Mercury being so close to the Sun, its place in a natal chart is
usually either the same as the Sun or falling within two houses from the Sun Sign.
Ruler of the Zodiac Signs: Taurus and Libra.
Mars: Orbits the entire zodiac in 687 days and stays an average of about 2
months in each sign. This planet embodies the strength one has in their will to
achieve and conquer their goals. An often-maligned planet due to its namesake,
Mars the God of War, one needs to be reminded that Mars was also the God of
Husbandry. Thus Martian aspects in a chart often represent animal magnetism
and great understanding of nature. Ruler of the Zodiac Signs: Aries and Scorpio.
Jupiter: Orbits through the zodiac around every 12 years and stays in each sign
an average of about one year. This large planet is interpreted largely on its size as
a characteristic of expansion in one's chart. Trust and your values in life's
meaning are embodied in this planet. Jupiter also represents career, good fortune
and prosperity as well as wisdom and dignity. Ruler of the Zodiac sign:
Sagittarius.
Saturn: Orbits through all the signs once every 29 years or so. Stays in each sign
an average of two years. This is the result of what is called an individual's "Saturn
Return". This planet represents structure, steadfastness, determination, and
 12

limitation. Often the challenger of all the planets in a person's chart, The effect
that Saturn aspects may have are often for the individual to redefine their
boundaries as well as encountering restrictions that may be unpleasant. All this is
in the name of transformation but could be a time for separations and farewells.
Death is not an unusual occurrence with certain aspects of Saturn. Ruler of the
Zodiac signs: Capricorn and Aquarius.
Chiron: Orbits takes about 51 years and connects to both Saturn and Uranus
orbits. Not astronomically called a planet, but instead is referred to as a Centaur
which is neither asteroid or planet because of size and "coma" but considered a
"mini-planet. Chiron will stay 8 years in Aries and only 1 and 1/2 in Libra due to
its odd orbit. First discovered in 1977, it has been astrologically recognized since
1992. It is termed the "wounded healer" , thus another area of interpretation for
karma astrology. One astrologer, Zane Stein, considers Chiron the Ruler for Virgo
through Sagittarius.
Uranus: Discovered in 1781, the planet takes 84 years to traverse through the
zodiac and remains in each sign on an average of 7 years. This is the planet that
embodies freedom and independence. It has the nickname as "liberator". its
effect can be of unrepentant changes and upheaval. Ruler of the Zodiac sign:
Aquarius
Neptune: Discovered in 1846, its orbit through the zodiac is 156 years. The
duration in one sign is 14 years. Saturn teaches boundaries and Neptune
DISSOLVES boundaries. Neptune's effect is mystical and of the spiritual realm.
Those charts aspected well with Neptune usually prove to have psychic and
clairvoyant abilities. The down side is this is the planet that indicates addiction to
drugs and alcohol and destructive behavior because there is difficulty in coping
with the mundane world. Ruler of the Zodiac sign: Pisces.
Pluto: Discovered in 1930, its orbit takes a whopping 248 years to visit all the
signs in the zodiac belt. It overstays its welcome in each sign to the tune of 21
years on the average but it can vary from 11 to 30 years because of its unusual
orbit. Pluto represents the deepest transformational power a person experiences
in life. The characteristic this planet brings to the surface is powerlessness,
helplessness, dependency, and emotional entanglement. Obsession is also
indicated. Ruler of the Zodiac sign: Scorpio.
Moon's North Node and Moon's South Node: The moon is facing part
south and north of the Sun's orbit thus the two directional names. If the Moon
comes from the South it is called Ascending Moon's Node, North Node, or
Dragon's Head. Coming from the North it is Descending Moon's Node, South
Node and Dragon's Tail. The opposition creates an automatic aspect to each
other. The meaning is as well opposite. The South Node indicates something you
have mastered and learned in the past, old patterns that the soul carried forward
to this lifetime, karmically speaking. The North Node indicates what needs to
accomplished in this lifetime and is directly opposite of the past. The effect is
expressed primarily in the HOUSE that it resides in and not the Zodiac Sign.
Part of Fortune: This is a point in space rather than a celestial body. The Part
of Fortune shows the Moon at sunrise and indicates the relationship of the Sun
 13

and the Moon. Finding the longitude of the Ascendant and the longitude of the
Moon and subtracting the longitude of the Sun calculates the mathematical
equation of the Part of Fortune. The sum is the Part of Fortune. The thumbnail
meaning is that the HOUSE that the Part of Fortune resides in is where the
person will be the most fortunate. Modern Astrology also looks at the Part of
Fortune as related to karmic readings.
Retrograde: The path of the orbit of a planet is ecliptic, their speed, as viewed
by the Earth, varies by their position in the ecliptic journey. Earth is also moving
in this ecliptic path that results with it being “faster” than another planet. This
makes that planet appear as if it is moving backwards. The Retrograde planets in
a natal chart play a major role in working with karmic astrology.
The Wheel
The Wheel of Houses: The four quadrants are subdivided into three fields.
These fields are called Houses. The calculation methods of these fields are the
same in astrological practices. However, the actual subdividing does vary and this
is called House System. For Indigo Ray's purposes in calculating the chart, we use
the Equal house system. This means all the houses are equal sized. Other House
systems are: Placidus, Campanus and Koch. In The only way to learn Astrology,
v.1 ; Marion D. March and Joan McEvers: the authors likened the components of the
chart to this analogy: "The planets are the actors, the signs are the roles they play
and the houses are the settings or situations in which the cast portrays its role".
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The Four Quadrants

The Ascendant: Another name for this is the Rising sign and so named because the
calculation for the ascendant is the determined by zodiac constellation rested on the
eastern horizon in the sky at the time of birth. The characteristic of the Ascendant is that
sign on the horizon and is how the outside world views that individual. The three major
factors looked at in a chart by astrologers are the Sun Sign, the Moon Sign and the
Ascendant. These three make up the powerful indicators that all the other signs and
aspects deal with in an individual's chart.
The Descendent: Opposite the Ascendant on the wheel represents and indicates in a
chart how one deals with one-to-one relationships and the need of them.
The Imum Coeli: (Nadir) This is how the individual expresses himself with friends
and families. The planets lying near (within 1° or so) to the IC denote the past lives of
the individual.
The Medium Coeli: (Midheaven): The placement of planets near and around this
point in the chart indicate profession, career and overall drive for achievement.

The Houses
First House: Begins the wheel with the focus on what this life's tone will be. Included
in the interpretation are the outer appearance, type of personality, the general
awareness of life and vital energy. The physical traits of the individual. The expression
of independence and individuality. Analogous to Aries.
Second House: The house of finance and assets. This is called the Prosperity house.
Analogous to Taurus.
Third House: The house of the mind and communications. Also identified with short
journeys of a business nature. Analogous to Gemini.
Fourth House: The house of family and ancestors. This is where the home hearth lies.
Also identified with the father. Analogous to Cancer.
Fifth House: The house of children. The Inner Child, if you will, is indicated in this
house. Self-expression and playfulness are adjectives that can describe the aspects of the
planets that fall in this house. Analogous to Leo.
Sixth House: The house of physical work. Here lies the indicator of the relationship
between body and mind. Alternative medicine is indicated in this house. Work life
environment is a matter for the sixth house. Analogous to Virgo.
Seventh House: The house of partnership and commitment. The give and take in
personal relationships. Lasting partnerships and associates. Analogous to Libra.
Eighth House: The house of transformation. Death and rebirth. Inheritances. The
Occult. Analogous to Scorpio.
Ninth House: The house of philosophy. Long journeys and foreign countries. The
 15

search for a power greater than yourself. Analogous to Sagittarius.

Tenth House: The house of vocation or the individual's calling in life. The house
becomes more important as the individual's life progresses. Analogous to Capricorn.
Eleventh House: The house of friends. The house covers groups, team spirit, large
communities, and hospitality. Analogous with Aquarius.
Twelfth House: House of secrets. The mystical house. Retreat and seclusion. Can also
indicate where hidden enemies are. Analogous with Pisces.

The Aspects and their Angles

! Conjunction Close
( Semi-Sextile 30°
) Semi-Square 45°
% Sextile 60°
Q Quintile 72°
$ Square 90°
# Trine 120°
* Sesquiquadrate 135°
& Inconjunct 150°
R Opposition 180°

An aspect is an angular relationship between two points in the 360° of the

zodiac. Said another way, the angular distance between two planets is what
causes the aspect. The aspect begins with the fastest orbiting planet of the two.
For example, it would be Mercury conjunct Saturn and not Saturn conjunct
Mercury.

Conjunction: CLOSE : The most powerful aspect because it indicates the

same degree of the same sign for two planets. This aspect can be very intense and
sometimes on the negative side, combustible. Conjunction expresses the creative
energy of both planets involved.

Sextile 60°: This is a positive aspect for the planets involved. The effect is
usually influence of functions in the intellectual world of ideas. Mental facilities
are heightened and more interests are researched with this aspect. This expresses
itself through the skill of written or spoken communication. This is the sociable
aspect.

Semisextile: 30° : This is considered one of the weaker aspects of the chart
but none the less can have influence on the planets involved. Most often it
represents flowing of energies of the sympathetic pairing of the planets. It does
allow for entry of new information
 16

Semisquare: 45°: Also considered a weaker aspect of the chart. This angle
results in planetary energies that conflict in subtle tension and usually calmness
is required.

Quintile: 72°: Another positive and powerful aspect. The planetary energies
are positively linked with subtle and spiritual in dimension. Independence and
strong will are indicated with this aspect.

Square: 90°: One of the harder aspects, it indicates the planetary energies
are in conflict. This internal and creative tension often brings rich rewards over
time.

Trine: 120°: Another positive aspect where the planetary energies flow
smoothly and the connection is easy and beneficial.

Sesquiquadrate: 135°: This aspect can be challenging because the planetary

energies are in conflict in determined tension, control is required.

Inconjunct: 150°: As the name implies it is the opposite of conjunct. The

planetary energies do not flow smoothly and one or the other predominates.
Discrimination is advised with this aspect.

Opposition: 180°: With this aspect the planetary aspects are polarized. It is
more likely that outer events stimulate their interaction. The challenge here is to
integrate.

What you just read was an Astrology 101 lesson. What wasn’t said was the
importance of reading interpretations with an open mind. Many of the
interpretations include the proviso of “may” or “might”. It is this Astrologer’s
belief that the celestial influences impel and not compel. Free will is the final
interpreter of any given situation. The aspects, houses, signs and patterns simply
describe what were the energies available to your soul at the time of your birth.

Generally speaking one cannot exceed the boundaries placed in the natal
chart because, quite simply, the energy impulses are non-existent. For example, I
wanted to be a dancer. Try as I may and with mediocre results my natal chart
showed no indication I would be a dancer instead it showed my soul’s work was
of a counseling nature. Thus any footwork (unintentional pun) I put toward
being a counselor would be backed by the celestial influences. And indeed it has.
This is role of the Natal Chart it sets up boundaries that progress as you progress
through the journey of life. The study of the progression of a natal chart is a
current way of looking at what was in the past, what is now in the present and
then finally what are the possibilities for the future.
Digitally signed by Jacquelyn
Archer

Signature Not
Jacquelyn Archer DN: cn=Jacquelyn Archer,
o=Indigo Ray Astrology
Inquiry, c=US
Date: 2002.09.09 05:40:36
Verified -05'00'