Twelve Astrological House system
Twelve Astrological House system
House system is the way the twelve astrological Houses are calculated. The most common systems are Placid us and Equal House. In Placid us, the Houses have differing sizes, and the MC is the cusp of the 10th House. In Equal House each House is the same 30° in size, and MC can be in any House from the 7th to the 12th. Both systems (and any other system worth considering) have the AC as the cusp of the 1st House.
I have the impression that Placid us is the most commonly used House system. Me, I prefer Equal House, for a number of reasons. It relates logically to the Zodiac, where each sign is also 30°, it adds nuance to the MC, it is mathematically more sound - and it's the oldest, used already by Ptolemy. What you should do, though, is to compare the two systems on your horoscope, and decide for yourself which one fits you the best.
The planet symbols.
Planets and points to include are numerous, if you allow them all. These are the basic ones, on which all astrologers agree:
Sun
Moon
Mercury
Venus
Mars
Jupiter
Saturn
Uranus
Neptune
Pluto
Ascendant, AC
Medium Coli, MC
In addition to those, the lunar nodes - Dragon's Head and Dragon's Tail - are quite often used. Some use Chiron, a celestial body discovered in 1977, and some add asteroids, fixed stars, mathematically calculated points, and so on. Which ones to use? The ones you are familiar with and have found valuable to include. Again, use your own horoscope as a guinea pig to reach your own conclusions.
I recommend that you start with only the twelve of the list above. They are a handful to interpret, so you are in no hurry to complicate your horoscope additionally, before being well acquainted with them.
Aspects and their orbs have their default values in any horoscope computer program, but most of them allow for the user to adjust these values. There are five basic aspects, used already by Ptolemy:
Aspect symbols
Conjunction, 0°
Opposition, 180°
Trine, 120°
Square, 90°
Sextile, 60°
Most astrologer would agree that those five aspects are the most important. In addition, some use the quincunx, 150°, and the semi-sex tile, 30°. Me, I stick with Ptolemy. The orb is the number of degrees allowed for an angle to be marked as an aspect in the horoscope. For example, a 10° orb makes anything between 110° and 130° a trine. Of course, the bigger the orb, the more aspects in a horoscope. It is common for astrologers to use different orbs for different aspects - a big one to the strongest aspects, the conjunction and opposition, and a small one to the weakest, the sex tile. In any case: an aspect is more important if it is closer to exact.
I use rather small orbs - 4° for all aspects. I do so, because you tend to look at relations between planets anyway - whether they are actually in aspect or not - so you need to have the close ones pointed out clearly. No need to make a cobweb of the chart.
Zodiac symbols
Zodiac signs, star signs, are the most well-known components of the horoscope. They are twelve:
Aries, the Ram
Taurus, the Bull
Gemini, the Twins
Cancer, the Crab
Leo, the Lion
Virgo, the Virgin
Libra, the Scales
Scorpio, the Scorpion
Sagittarius, the Archer
Capricorn, the Goat
Aquarius, the Water Bearer
Pisces, the Fishes
They are usually counted from Aries to Pisces, as above. Aries is the sign the sun enters at the Spring Equinox - in past times this was regarded as the beginning of the year. Your own star sign is simply the sign where the sun was at the time of your birth. Of course, the other planets and points of the horoscope can be in any other Zodiac sign.
The above are the central components of astrology and the horoscope. Read more about them on this website, by exploring the menu on the left. I hope that my texts will help you interpret and understand your own horoscope. You will surely enjoy the process.
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We look at ten Planets in the study of Astrology, beginning with the Sun and the Moon, also known as luminaries. Additionally, there are Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune and Pluto. The energy of the Planets influences our every day lives. That said, it's what we do with this energy that truly matters. The more recently-recognized Planets (Uranus, Neptune and Pluto) do not dilute the message of the other Planets, they simply add to our spectrum of experience. Many consider Jupiter to be the most benevolent of the Planets, with Venus a close second. The Sun, Moon and Mercury also tend to cast a golden glow. On the flip side of things is Saturn's hard energy, followed by the sharpness of Mars, Uranus, Neptune and Pluto. The Planets move at varying speeds, some faster (the Moon) and some slower (Pluto), depending on how close they are to the Sun. The fastest Planets (Moon, Mercury, Venus and Mars) are commonly referred to as the inner Planets and speak to the inner self. The social Planets are Jupiter and Saturn, while the outer Planets (Uranus, Neptune and Pluto) fix their gaze on the external world. Each of the Planets exerts its most powerful energy over the Sign it rules. This is also referred to as the Sign of its dignity. There is a second Sign with which each Planet interacts well, known as the Sign of its exaltation. Directly opposite each Planet's Sign of dignity is the Sign of detriment; this Planet's energy is generally unfavorable. Opposite the Sign of exaltation is the Sign of fall; these Planets exhibit a weakened energy. A Planet in its natural House (such as Mars in Aries) is acid en tally dignified and strengthened as a result. Perhaps the most important Planet of all is the one that rules the Ascendant. For example, those with Virgo on the Ascendant will find that Mercury, as the ruler of Virgo, exerts a considerable influence over their chart. The movement of the Planets is categorized as stationary, director retrograde. A stationary Planet (which will soon be director retrograde) brings with it highly-focused and significant energy. Direct Planets also exert considerable influence. It is the retrograde Planets which serve to mix things up. By appearing to move backward, these Planets generate a diffused and unfocused energy. The message of retrograde Planets will be garbled and less effective as a result.
The Sun: Planet of Self
As the Sun puts forth light, so it brings forth life. This Planet(also known as a luminary and a star) represents the self, one's personality and ego, the spirit and what it is that makes the individual unique. It is our identity and our face to the world. The Sun also speaks to creative ability and the power of the individual to meet the challenges of everyday life. One's natural father, husbands and other male influences are ruled by the Sun, as are children. The Sun's energy is a forceful one, and in its wake comes authority, the ability to lead and an individual's essence, their core being. Through the will of this Planet, we learn to manifest ourselves in the world. The Sun is majestic, and in keeping with its regal air, it rules royalty and higher office. This orb also lords over our health and well-being. The Sun's golden glow is a vital life force which imbues us with strength, energy and a will to succeed. It is the Sun which gives strength to the other Planets, which is why this Planet occupies a key role in Astrology. The Sun spends about a month visiting each Sign and takes a year to journey through the twelve Signs of the Zodiac. It is masculine energy and rules Leo and the Fifth House.
The Moon: Ruler of the Emotions
Since the Moon is the closest 'Planet' to Earth, this satellite literally zips around the Zodiac, completing its circuit in less than a month. It also touches us more deeply than most Planets. As the ruler of the tides, it is fitting that the Moon should be the ruler of our emotions. Still waters run deep? Making waves ? A well spring of emotion ? Yes, our emotions have long been portrayed in terms of the sea: fluid, momentous, churning from within. Mood swings, instinct, how we feel about things and how our feelings affect others are all influenced by the Moon. Whereas the Sun gives us our spirit, it's the Moon which gives us our soul. The Moon is goddess-like in that it symbolizes mother and the relation ship between woman and child. This Planet (also known as a luminary) speaks to the women in one's life and their role as nurturer. Fertility, pregnancy and childbirth are also governed by the Moon. We see the Moon casting its silvery glow from our earliest moments, when we were stroked and caressed by our mother and felt her tender touch. Our emotions manifest themselves through our being and set the tone for our daily lives. The Moon is party to this continuum, rendering us vital one moment and fragile the next. We're up and down, naughty or nice, and may laugh wildly or cry at will. Through the Moon's energy, we endeavor to reconcile these varied emotions in order to make ourselves complete and one with the world. The Moon also helps us see that which we want, and to use memory and the past as part of this process. The Moon spends roughly 2 1/2 days in each sign and takes 28days to circumnavigate the Zodiac. It is feminine energy and rules Cancer and the Fourth House.
Mercury: Planet of Communication
Mercury, much like the winged messenger of the gods, comes in on feather-light wings and commands us to speak. Communication, intellect and awareness are all within Mercury's domain, as are logic and reasoning, our manner of thinking, and how we create and express our thought processes mercurial nature brings to mind restlessness and motion. Rat-a-tat-tat -- things happen fast here. Mercury is about a quick wit, quick thinking, possibilities, opinions, reasoning and the ability to rationalize things. Mercurial energy can be good or bad, but it will certainly be energizing! This Planet also prompts us to move from one thing to the next and to get answers on both a physical and psychological level. Further, Mercury's energy is both dexterous and perceptive. Mercury is about short trips: a visit to a neighbor or a friend across town, the workaday commute, a weekend getaway. Siblings, and transportation in general, are also within Mercury’s realm. Speaking, writing, books, online communications and learning are all within Mercury's domain. This Planet implores us to express ourselves often -- and well. When Mercury goes retrograde (the appearance of traveling backward), however, our communications will be challenged. Mercury is never more than 28 degrees from the Sun; it takes about 88 days to complete its orbit of the Sun. It is neither masculine nor feminine energy and assumes the gender of the Sign it is in. It rules both Gemini and Virgo and the Third and Sixth Houses.
Venus: Planet of Love and Money
Venus is all about pleasure, especially pleasure shared with someone else. This Planet concerns itself with love, romance and harmony in our emotional attachments, marriages, friendships and other unions (like business partnerships). Venuses content to spread happiness and tenderness, all the while teaching us how to love and appreciate others and the things that we possess. We appear attractive -- and we attract others -- thanks to Venus’s energy. Socializing with and relating to others are important to this Planet. Beauty is also strongly associated with Venus. The arts (music, dance, drama and literature, to name a few) and a sense of the aesthetic fall within the ream of Venus. Venus beseeches us to indulge our senses and revel in the beauty of our world. This Planet is inextricably linked to refinement, culture, charm and grace. Venus also deals with the pleasure we derive from our possessions. Luxuries (jewelry, paintings, expensive cars), good food and drink, a beautiful home and a sense of refinement all please Venus's interests. This Planet asks us to appreciate the exquisite nature of things. It's a sensual -- though not necessarily sexual -- world as far as Venus is concerned. Venus takes 225 days to complete its orbit of the zodiac; it is never more than 47 degrees from the Sun. It is a feminine energy and rules both Taurus and Libra and the Second and Seventh Houses
Mars: Planet of Passion
Mars is the action Planet of the Zodiac. The 'Red Planet,' after all, should be pretty fiery, and Mars does not disappoint. Energy, passion, drive and determination are all right up Mars's alley. This Planet commands you (and yes, Mars does rule the military) to stand up, be noticed and get things done -- sitting on the sidelines belongs somewhere else in the heavens. Simply put, Mars speaks to the power and confident expression of the individual. Ambition and competition are also within Mars's realm. Whether it’s at work or on the field of play, Mars encourages us to face challenges and to be our best -- or better. Aggression is part of the plan here, although Mars also values courage and honor. Assertion and a daring, fearless nature please this Planet. It's important to note that Mars's energy can be constructive or destructive. The God of War in ancient times, Mars could be brutally violent. While this energy still emanates from the Planet, it also asks us to harness this force for good. Stamina, ambition and achievement are all part of Mars' mantra. Mars rules our sexuality and sexual energy, and governs weapons, accidents and surgery (the last two illustrating the yin and yang nature of this Planet). In the end, however, the energy of Mars can be quite useful if used properly. It takes nearly two years for Mars to complete its orbit through the Zodiac. It is masculine energy and rules both Aries and Scorpio and the First and Eighth Houses.
Jupiter: Planet of Luck
Jupiter is the thinking person's Planet. As the guardian of the abstract mind, this Planet rules higher learning and bestows upon us a yen for exploring ideas, both intellectually and spiritually. Intellectually speaking, Jupiter assists us in formulating our ideology. In the more spiritual realm, Jupiter lords over religions and philosophy. A search for the answers is what Jupiter proposes, and if it means spanning the globe to find them, well, that's probably why Jupiter also rules long-distance travel. In keeping with this theme, Jupiter compels us to assess our ethical and moral values; it also addresses our sense of optimism. Luck and good fortune are associated with Jupiter for good reason. This is a kind and benevolent Planet, one which wants us to grow and flourish in a positive way. Jupiter may be judge and jury, but it's mostly an honorable helpmate, seeing to it that we're on the right path. While our success, accomplishments and prosperity are all within Jupiter's realm, this largesse can, at times, deteriorate into laziness and sloth (Jupiter, at its worst, is associated with weight gain!). More often than not, however, Jupiter will guide us down the primrose path. Leisure time is also one of Jupiter's pastimes. Sports of all kinds, games of chance, and a stroll in the park with the family pet(Jupiter loves animals) are all ruled by this Planet. Finally, Jupiter often presages great wealth, material and otherwise. This is a good friend in the heavens! It takes Jupiter about twelve years to circle the Zodiac (the Planet visits an average of one Sign a year). It is masculine energy and rules both Sagittarius and Pisces and the Ninth and Twelfth Houses
Saturn: Planet of Karma
Saturn doesn't make things easy. That's the role of the taskmaster of the Zodiac. Saturn commands us to get to work and to work hard. Discipline and responsibility are important to this Planet, yet if we're eager to conquer the world, that's okay, too. Much like Father Time, Saturn implores us to look at the clock(its glyph, after all, is the sickle of Chronis, the God of Time). Is there time for everything we want to do, or are there limits? Those limitations are important to Saturn, and we must learn to manage them. Restrictions are the province of this Planet, as is any form of discipline or delay. In keeping with the passage of time, Saturn governs old age along with the lessons it teaches us. Learning life's lessons iskey to this Planet, in keeping with its role as teacher. The majesty of older age also brings with it a certain sense of tradition, conventionality (our learned patterns of behavior) and wisdom, and Saturn is mindful of these characteristics. This Planet applauds our perseverance and the fact that we’ve withstood the test of time (yes, time comes up once again). This senior status further brings with it a measure of authority, and Saturn lords over that as well. Structure, order and the way in which we conduct our affairs are all ruled by this ringed Planet. Contraction and the reining in of assets are also important here. Lastly, Saturn, again in its role as teacher, concerns itself with karma and the lessons which past experiences might bring. It takes Saturn 28-30 years to complete its orbit of the zodiac. It is masculine energy and rules Capricorn and Aquarius and the Tenth and Eleventh Houses.
Uranus: Planet of Rebellion
The Planet Uranus wasn't discovered until 1781. As one of the outermost Planets, it moves rather slowly through the Zodiac. The result is that its effect is felt more generationally than individually. Uranus brings with it a new way of looking at things, and its approach is best met with an expanded consciousness. Originality, inventions, computers, cutting-edge technologies and future events are all ruled by this Planet. Uranus sees no need for the status quo, preferring instead to break with tradition and create a new mold. While the building blocks (science, electricity) are safe here, this Planet would rather focus its gaze on a new world order. To that end, rebellion, revolution, dictators, an autonomous state and free will all fall under the aegis of this Planet. No one will ever characterize Uranus as subtle. This is the Planet which coaxes erratic and bizarre behavior and byzantine schemes. A bohemian, utopian society is more in keeping with Uranus's bent, as are humanitarian ideals. Freedom and creativity are important to this Planet; Astrology is also within it srealm. Lastly, in keeping with its sudden, sometimes violent and often unexpected manner, Uranus rules earthquakes and other natural disasters. It takes Uranus 84 years to complete its trip around the zodiac. It is an androgynous energy and rules Aquarius and the Eleventh House. Uranus is considered to be the higher octave of Mercury and the first of the transcendental Planets.
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Pluto: Planet of Power
As the outermost Planet in our solar system, Pluto is also the farthest from the Sun. It has only recently been discovered, having come to light (albeit a dim one) in 1930.Pluto's energy may be subtle, but its results will hit you like a ton of bricks. This Planet is about transformation, regeneration and re birth. Things aren't pretty with Pluto, but they do get done. Pluto says 'out with the old and in with the new,' and we'd better be ready for it. If we're not, this Planet will simply have us wallow in our misery. Pluto asks us to transcend that which we know, redeem ourselves in the process, and come out stronger as a result. For all that Pluto (re)creates (it also governs the reproductive system), it loves to destroy. This Planet rules destruction, death, obsession, kidnapping, coercion, viruses and waste. That's definitely not pretty. Pluto also governs crime and the underworld, along with many forms of subversive activity(terrorism, dictatorships). This Planet is about all that is secret and undercover, that which is hidden from view. Is this the story of good vs. evil? Yes. No one will deny Pluto's power (it rules atomic power, too) and intensity. This Planet's energy is often focused on the masses and what the collective will do. Pluto beseeches the masses to look inward (and to their subconscious) to see what's there. It may be scary, but Pluto doesn't care. This Planet knows how to push buttons. It takes Pluto approximately 248 years to complete its orbit around the Zodiac. Due to the eccentricity of its orbit, it takes this Planet between 12 and 31 years to pass through a Sign. It rules Scorpio and the Eighth House. Pluto is the last of the transcendental Planets and is the higher octave of Mars.
There are two classifications of the Signs of the Zodiac --Elements and Qualities -- and they each refer to core human characteristics. The Elements, which are also known as Triplicates (as in groupings of three), speak to the basic nature and temperament of a Sign, whereas Qualities address their manner of expression. The Elements (Fire, Earth, Air and Water) are based on ancient Greek philosophy. The ancients took it back to square one, the building blocks of life: the solid earth upon which we stand, the running water we use as a resource, the air we breathe and the fire which keeps us warm and aids in the creation of additional resources. It's easy to see a kinship to science in this elemental plan. With the individual in mind, the Greeks started philosophizing abet. In this scenario, the body is considered earthy, feelings are fluid, thoughts often airy and activity animated and energetic. As Astrology developed, the ancients attached these elemental characteristics to the Signs, seeing as how it made sense to place a watery label on a more emotional sort. Thus evolved the classification of the Signs to their corresponding Elements. The four Elements and their corresponding Signs are Fire (Aries, Leo and Sagittarius), Earth (Taurus, Virgo and Capricorn), Air(Gemini, Libra and Aquarius) and Water (Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces). While the Elements in and of themselves help to describe our basic nature, once combined in our overall astrological chart, they help to define us as a whole and complex person. In looking at an individual's astrological chart, the presence of more Fire Signs may well indicate a fiery, combustible personality. Along the same lines, the absence of Earth Signs would indicate someone who is not very grounded or practical. The presence of a mix of all of the Elements would be a sign of a well-rounded individual. Each Element reflects a quality of human nature and corresponds with the Suits in both playing cards and the Tarot.
Element Keyword Suit Tarot Fire
Physical Clubs Wands
Earth
Practical Diamonds Coins
Air
Intellectual Spades Swords
Water
Emotional Hearts Cups
Fire
The Element of Fire is associated with the Signs Aries, Leo and Sagittarius, and it also rules the First, Fifth and Ninth Houses. As one would expect, those graced by Fire are fiery, indeed. They are enthusiastic and sometimes larger than life. Just like a fire that is left untended, however, Fire Signs can burn out of control. Ouch! It's best to tend those embers. A Fire Sign is also an indicator of creativity. This Element manifests itself in creative and unique ways, and those in its glow are also wonderfully courageous, lively spirits. Those influenced by a Fire Sign are self-sufficient, spontaneous and possess a tremendous zest for life. It also stands to reason that a combustible Fire Signer would be ardent in the game of love. Yes, these are the sexiest Signs of the Zodiac, knowing they are the cat's meow and climbing ever higher in the name of love. To their credit, those touched by Fire are often an inspiration to others, certainly for their adherence to solid moral and religious ideals. If there's a flip side to the Element of Fire, it can be that those who bear its will can be overly strident in getting their way. Call it bossy, even. These folks can come across rather force fully. Selfishness and an overdeveloped ego can also be seen as part of a fiery individual's shadowy side. Fire Signs are strong, self-assured, creative and fun. When they get too hot to touch, though, it may be a good idea to stand baxk!
Earth
The Element of Earth is attached to the Signs Taurus, Virgo and Capricorn, and it also rules the Second, Sixth and Tenth Houses. All the earthy metaphors are appropriate here: salt of the Earth, feet firmly planted on the ground and so forth. Those graced by an Earth Sign in their horoscope are practical, grounded and dependable. These folks aren't taking big risks, much preferring a sure thing. Much like the Elements are considered the building blocks in nature, Earth Signs are the builders of the zodiac. To these Signs, creation is a tangible proposition. Whether it's building jobs or homes, or creating comfortable rooms within that home through the acquisition of possessions, Earth Signers are about all what is solid around us. Those influenced by this Element feeblest once they have accumulated a goodly number of worldly possessions. The risk inherent in this, however, is that these individuals may become greedy and far too materialistic. The Element of Earth also confers a sense of duty, responsibility and reliability to those in its sphere. These are the people you can count on to be there when you need them. Those influenced by Earth also tend toward caution and conservatism, in both desire and approach. That said, they are sensualists, certainly in that they appreciate a good meal and fine wine better than anyone else. The logical mind of an Earth Signer is always appreciated. In keeping with this measured approach, these folks also display considerable recuperative powers. On the flip side of things, however, those supported by Earth may be so caught up in their objectives that they might overlook the feelings of others. It is a big picture, after all, but these folks may be more concerned with the finish line than the journey they are taking. Earth Signs are dependable, practical and conservative, yet fairly materialistic. They have their feet on the ground but their eyes on the prize.
Air
The Element of Air is attached to the Signs Gemini, Libra and Aquarius. It also rules the Third, Seventh and Eleventh Houses. It is rarefied air which usually surrounds those graced by this Element, as this is the marker of the intellectual. Airy people are smart thinkers and handle abstract reasoning well. They love to analyze, synthesize and probe. Do you have a dilemma? Hand it over to an Air Sign and watch them go to work. Air Signs are also about communication. These individuals want to get the word out, and it's not likely to be fluff. They are alert, curious and perceptive. The world as seen by an Air Sign will bean interesting one, as their analysis and subsequent explanation (hopefully in terms we can understand) will indicate. Those influenced by Air are inventive and clever. They see all sides of the equation and are able to glean the best approach. Balance is important to these airy folk. So, are Air Signers fresh as a summer breeze or howling like the wind? Probably both, depending on when you catch them. While these folks are often cool, calm and collected, they can turn cold if their equilibrium is upset. A word to the wise: there's little upside in baiting an Air Sign. Another plus with Air is that it manifests itself in a most humane way. Those influenced by Air can truly wear another's shoes, as it were. They are objective, cooperative and really want to help make a better world. There's no prejudice with these folks, just a bright and shiny idealism which can accomplish much. Air Signs are communicative, intellectual, clever and fair. They can blow hot and cold, though, so beware of a chilly draft!
Water
The Element of Water is associated with the Signs Cancer, Scorpio and Pisces, and it also rules the Fourth, Eighth and Twelfth Houses. The watery words flow with this Element: fluid, flowing, wavering. These terms can easily apply to an individual's emotions, which are exactly the realm in which Water exerts its influence. Water Signs are intuitive, sensitive and feel more intensely than the rest. They are emotional and nurturing and, like a river, run deep. How things feel is what matters to these folks, and they base their actions on sense, rather than on logic or intellect. Water is also about compassion and understanding, since the receptive talents of these individuals are remarkably high. Water Sign people can take in the feelings of others, process them, and put forth a plan or solution that will be conscientious to all. Those graced by Water love to take their sense of the world and translate it into the artistic. They desire aesthetic beauty – and for everyone to be happy as a result of that beauty. Much like still water can become stagnant, however, an inactive Water Sign person is not a Water Sign person at their best. Water Signs feel most fulfilled when they are helping others, and they do so in an enchanting, considerate and even romantic way. The flip side of this dreamy Water world is the tendency of these individuals to brood. Water Signs are susceptible to mood swings, and, at their worst, they could become self-indulgent, controlling and hostage to a fantasy world. This also brings up the ability of these folks to see things more clearly than others. Call it psychic, if you will. Water Signs are emotional, empathetic, receptive and feel things deeply. Alternately calm like the sea or possessing the force of torrential rain, the emotions brought forth by this Element are plentiful, indeed.
The three Qualities defined in Astrology are, after the Elements, the second major classification that defines the nature of the Signs. The Qualities assign the Signs into Quadruplicates, groups of four Signs each that reflect the three common modes of Signs. Signs that are 90 degrees apart or opposite each other -- 180degrees, also known as Signs in Polarity -- have the same Quality. The Signs that belong to the same Quality generally do not function smoothly together, despite their likeness -- or perhaps because of them. They are often uneasy with one another, but those in polarity complement each other, even though tension sometimes exists between them. Within an astrological chart, the Quality describes a person's attitudes in life and the way they approach projects. The three Qualities are Cardinal, Fixed and Mutable. The Cardinal Signs are Aries, Cancer, Libra and Capricorn. These four Signs are the initiators of the Zodiac. Their common characteristics include action and drive; they have initiative and strong motivation. On a team, Cardinal Signs are the people who come up with ideas and get the project moving, but they are not very good at completion and follow-through. The Cardinal Houses are the First, Fourth, Seventh and Tenth; if a chart has an umber of Planets in these Houses, the chart is weighted toward Cardinal energy. The Fixed Signs are Taurus, Leo, Scorpio and Aquarius. These four Signs are the members of the Zodiac who dedicate themselves to seeing projects through to completion. Their common characteristics include determination and persistence; they are stable and self-reliant. On a team, Fixed Signs are the people who keep a project going and see it through to the end, but they can also be stubborn and inflexible. The Fixed Houses are Second, Fifth, Eighth and Eleventh; if a chart has a number of Planets in these Houses, the chart is weighted toward Fixed energy.
The Mutable Signs are Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius and Pisces. These four Signs are the flexible members of the Zodiac, happy to fill an assigned role. Their common characteristics include adaptability and changeability; they are flexible and versatile. On a team, Mutable Signs adapt easily to changing conditions, and they don't have a particular agenda. They can, however, bewishy-washy or inconsistent. The Mutable Houses are Third, Sixth, Ninth and Twelfth; if a chart has a number of Planets in these Houses, the chart is weighted toward Mutable energy. Many people don't realize how important the Elements and Qualities are in true Astrology. It's the combination of Elements and Qualities that makes the Signs what they are; they combine in twelve distinct ways, one for each Sign.
Sign Quality Element
Aries Cardinal Fire Taurus Fixed Earth Gemini Mutable Air Cancer Cardinal Water Leo Fixed Fire Virgo Mutable Earth
Sign Quality Element
Libra Cardinal Air Scorpio Fixed Water Sagittarius Mutable Fire Capricorn Cardinal Earth Aquarius Fixed Air Pisces Mutable Water
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Adrenal
A Cardinal Quality is attached to the Signs Aries, Cancer, Libra and Capricorn. The Cardinal Houses are the First, Fourth, Seventh and Tenth; if an astrological chart shows a preponderance of Planets in these Houses, its energy is weighted toward carnality. Cardinal Signs are the initiators of the Zodiac. They are also found at key jumping-off points on the chart wheel, specifically the Ascendant, Medium Coeli (M.C. or Mid heaven), Descendant and Imum Coeli (I.C.). Individuals possessing a Cardinal Quality like to get things going. They are active, quick and ambitious. Many projects get started, thanks to Cardinal initiative, although a good deal of them are never finished. That's because Cardinal folks are much fonder of starting things than finishing them. You won't find a Cardinal person slacking off. These people are full of vim and vigor and possess a drive and ambition that is unmistakable. Enthusiasm and a zest for life fill the Cardinal individual. Some might perceive this rampant energy as domineering, and, at times, it can be. Cardinal people can easily forget about the rest of the pack when they are busily focusing on their own endeavors. Even so, their energetic spirit often wins the day. Cardinal folks are clever and want to win. They love to start things, and whether they finish them or not, there's always a lot going on. Nay Sayers who find theism to be too self-centered will simply have to watch (and marvel) as they speed by!
Fixed
A Fixed Quality is attached to the Signs Taurus, Leo, Scorpio and Aquarius. The Fixed Houses are the Second, Fifth, Eighth and Eleventh; if an astrological chart shows a preponderance of Planets in these Houses, its energy is weighted toward fixity. Fixed Signs understand that steadiness is the key. Those influenced by this Quality are happy to forge ahead with their projects, calmly working away until they have achieved their objectives. This is no struggle for Fixed folks, rather it's what makes them tick. These individuals are stable, determined and resolute. They want to get to the finish line and have the persistence and ability to concentrate, characteristics which will get them there. There is no lack of confidence in Fixed individuals. Self-reliance could be a Fixed person's middle name. Those possessed of a Fixed nature are powerful, yet purposeful. There are no wasted motions here: Fixed folks move patiently and steadily toward their goals. They are also steady and reliable and always remember those who helped them out. Conversely, those born under a Fixed Sign can at times be stubborn, my-way-or-the-highway folks. They may have a tendency to get stuck in the airways and to believe that they are always right. Those influenced by a Fixed Quality are determined, reliable and persistent. They have great strength, and strength of purpose, and love to get the job done. So what if they refuse to budge? They get results.
The Astrological Houses
One way to put the components of your astrological chart into areal world context is to look at the twelve Houses of the Zodiac. Each sector of the Zodiac deals with a different aspect of our life. By examining the placement of the Planets and Signs in the various Houses, the image of your 'astrological make up' is further sharpened. If, for example, your chart finds Uranus, the Planet of Rebellion, in the First House, the House of Self, you may seem a little odd to others because you wear your individuality on the surface. Technically speaking, to place the Houses within the chart wheel, divide the wheel into twelve equal pie-shaped pieces(see an example of this below).
The first piece of this astrological pie begins at the nine o'clock spot and heads south: That is the First House. The Second House begins at the eight o'clock position ... and so on. The first Sign of the Zodiac, Aries, is the ruler of the First House; Taurus, the second Sign, rules the Second House, and so on around the wheel. Any of the twelve Signs can visit a particular House and add its own characteristics to it, based on time, date and place of birth. It would be correct to infer that the Houses possess similar traits to the Signs which rule them, as well a staking on traits of each Planet that travels through them.
relating to the Self, the Houses speak to the external world and outer influences.The First House, at the nine o'clock position, is said to be on the"ascendant", or horizon. One's outward image is largely defined by the planetary placement at the ascendant. For example, if Virgo is on the ascendant in a particular chart, it will add its own flavor and characteristics to the First House.Directly across from the First House is the Seventh House, at the three o'clock position. This is referred to as the descendant and addresses how we view our relationships with others. The high noon position, at the beginning of the Tenth House, is also occupied by the medium coeli, or MC. Through the MC, we can glean much about an individual's social status and public persona. Opposite the MC on the chart wheel is the imam coeli, or IC,located at the six o'clock position, which is also the start of the Fourth House. The IC looks inward and represents childhood,home and family. The ascendant, descendant, MC and IC are also known as the angles of the chart wheel.Having one's correct birth time available allows for an accurate placement of the Planets in their corresponding Houses when drawing up a chart wheel. This placement adds much texture to the reading -- and meaning -- of an individual's chart.
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