What are zodiac sign placements?

The zodiac is a division of the space around the earth into segments called 'signs'. It is centred in a band of space called the 'ecliptic', which is the projected 360 circle around the earth in which the sun, moon and planets appear to circuit relative to the earth. In reality, of course, the earth and the planets are all orbiting around the Sun on this plane, but in astrology we are interested in what affects us here on earth, so what matters is the positions of the Sun, Moon and planets relative to the Earth! The ecliptic is demarcated in degrees longitude; and whatever method may be used to divide it up into signs, it is worth bearing in mind that it is equally a continuum, and that when astrological influences are being assessed much more precise degree-specific calculations frequently have to be made. For any given person, at the moment of birth, the Sun, Moon, planets and various other factors will each be located in one of the signs of the zodiac. There are two completely different methods for dividing up the ecliptic into zodiac signs: the sidereal method and the tropical method. Both sidereal and tropical astrology have been practised for thousands of years, and each has its own observable validity. The signs of the sidereal zodiac, also called the fixed zodiac, are located in different places from those of the tropical zodiac (or 'moveable zodiac'), though at certain points in history, most notably around 221 A.D., they have happened to coincide with them temporarily. The astronomical bases and astrological effects of the sidereal signs are entirely separate from those of the tropical signs, although confusingly they have inherited a matching set of names. These names are those of the most obvious constellations of stars that lie behind the ecliptic as viewed from earth. The sidereal zodiac is carved out in accordance with the positions of those constellations; and its supposed effects are based on their positions. In some sidereal traditions, upwards of 12 sidereal zodiac signs have been in use, including additional constellations; but 12 equal signs is the most usual. The tropical zodiac is based instead on the interface between the ecliptic and the earth's equator, a principle bearing no realation to the positions of the constellations; but its 12 signs were named after 12 of the constellations to reflect the fact that, when these signs were named about 2,000 years ago, their locations approximated to those of the constellations in question, although the two zodiacs have since mutually drifted apart by 24. The cyclical revolution of the tropical zodiac about the fixed zodiac does not compromise or weaken the astrological influence of the tropical signs, which at any point in history operates independently of the positons of the constellations sharing their names. It is important not to attempt to interpret placements of the planets etc. in the signs of the tropical zodiac using sources on their placement in the signs of the sidereal zodiac that bear the same names, or vice versa. They are fundamentally totally different and cannot be mutually substituted. The vast mass of western literature on astrology refers to and interprets placements in the tropical zodiac. The basis of the tropical zodiac The earth revolves once a day around its lateral axis, known as the equator. The ecliptic is angled at a considerable slant relative to the equator, and intersects it twice, one point of intersection being exactly opposite the other, and these points being called the 'equinoxes' while for the rest of its path it is inclined to the north or south, in equal measure; and its most extreme northern and southern points are known as the tropic of Cancer and the tropic of Capricorn respectively. The equinox where the Sun, Moon and planets are heading generally northwards is known as the vernal or Spring equinox, while the one where they are heading southwards is known as the Autumn equinox. At certain times, all planets from Mercury to Pluto move temporarily in the opposite direction from normal within the ecliptic as viewed from Earth; this apparent retrograde motion results from the fact that the Earth itself is really moving too, but they make up for it by moving in direct motion at 2-3 times their average speeds at certain other times, and always complete their circuits of the ecliptic in a fairly uniform length of time or period ultimately. The incline of ecliptic relative to the equator is most obvious to us in the seasons caused by the movement of the Sun through the ecliptic. The unit of time we all know as a year is simply the amount of time the Sun takes to complete one circuit of the ecliptic. In the northern hemisphere, when the Sun reaches the tropic of Cancer, around June 21st, we naturally experience the longest and strongest hours of sunlight, because it is at its furthest northward inclination in the ecliptic; this time is known to us as the summer solstice; while when it reaches the tropic of Capricorn we experience the shortest and weakest sunlight because it is at its furthest southward point; this time is known to us as the winter solstice. When it reaches the Autumn and Spring equinoxes, since it is directly over the equator, we get average sunlight and day length for the year. The two equinoxes and two tropics are the most basic four points on the tropical zodiac. These four points naturally divide the full 360 ecliptic into four quadrants of 90 each. Each quadrant of the ecliptic is further subdivided by astrologers into three equal zodiac 'signs' of 30 each, numbered from 0 to 29. Signs of the tropical zodiac

The Spring equinox is taken as being the beginning of the tropical zodiac, and the first quadrant embraces the path through the ecliptic from the Spring equinox to the northernmost point, the Tropic of Cancer, and corresponds exactly to the season we call 'Spring', as far as the path of the Sun is concerned. This quadrant is divided into the signs known as Aries, Taurus and Gemini. The second quadrant, from the Tropic of Cancer through to the Autumn equinox, is divided into the signs Cancer, Leo and Virgo, and corresponds to the season we call 'Summer' when the Sun passes through it. The third quadrant, from the Autumn equinox to the southernmost point, the Tropic of Capricorn, corresponds in Sun terms to the season we call 'Autumn', and is divided into the signs Libra, Scorpio and Sagittarius. The fourth quadrant, from the Tropic of Capricorn back to the Spring equinox, is divided into the signs Capricorn, Aquarius and Pisces, and corresponds to the solar season we call 'Winter'. The table below shows the four sign quadrants of the tropical zodiac and their division each into three signs. Also shown are the defining entry point along the path of the geocentric ecliptic at which the quadrant begins, the declination of each quadrant north or south of the equator, and the direction in which this declination is moving (northward or southward) as the journey through the quadrant concerned progresses. Point of entry.|.Declination.|.Direction.|.Signs.|.Cardinal...|.Fixed......|.Mutable.....| Vernal Equinox.|.North.......|.Northward.|.1-3...|.Aries......|.Taurus.....|.Gemini......| Tropic of Can..|.North.......|.Southward.|.4-6...|.Cancer.....|.Leo........|.Virgo.......| Autumn Equinox.|.South.......|.Southward.|.7-9...|.Libra......|.Scorpio....|.Sagittarius.| Tropic of Cap..|.South.......|.Northward.|.10-12.|.Capricorn..|.Aquarius...|.Pisces......| Sign groupings Each of the three signs in each quadrant of the zodiac is known as being of a different 'mode', quality or constitution from the other two. The first of the three signs in each quadrant is known as being 'cardinal'; the second in each is known as being 'fixed'; and the third as being 'mutable' - as shown in the table above also. These three groupings each of four signs of a particular mode are sometimes known as the 'quadruplicities'. Thus, the cardinal signs are Aries, Cancer, Libra and Capricorn, the fixed ones are Taurus, Leo, Scorpio and Aquarius, and the mutable ones are Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius and Pisces. Signs of the same mode are always located three signs apart from each other. The zodiac is also divided for sign classification purposes into three sections of 120, as shown in the table below, again starting from the Spring equinox, otherwise known as Aries 0. The first section therefore encompasses the signs Aries, Taurus, Gemini and Cancer; the second encompasses Leo, Virgo, Libra and Scorpio; and the third encompasses Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius and Pisces. Each of the four signs in each of these sections is known as being of a different 'element' from the other three in its section. The first of the four signs in each section is known as being of the element 'Fire'; the second in each is known as being of the element 'Earth'; the third in each is known as being of the element 'Air'; and the fourth in each is known as being of the element 'Water'. These four groupings each of three signs of a particular element are sometimes termed the 'triplicities'. Thus, the Fire signs are Aries, Leo and Sagittarius; the Earth signs are Taurus, Virgo and Capricorn; the Air signs are Gemini, Libra and Aquarius; and the Water signs are Cancer, Scorpio and Pisces. Signs of the same element are always located four signs apart from each other. Signs.|.Fire........|.Earth.......|.Air........|.Water.....| 1-4...|.Aries.......|.Taurus......|.Gemini.....|.Cancer....| 5-8...|.Leo.........|.Virgo.......|.Libra......|.Scorpio...| 9-12..|.Sagittarius.|.Capricorn...|.Aquarius...|.Pisces....| Precession of the equinoxes Having expounded the astronomical derivation of the tropical zodiac, we now can revisit the question of how and why it moves in relation to the sidereal one (fixed by the backdrop of the stars). This is caused (in simple terms - to avoid delving into advanced physics) by a slow oscillating movement of the Earth called nutation that results from the gravitational pull exerted by the Sun and Moon on its equator. A given point in the tropical zodiac will move in retrograde direction through a complete circuit of the fixed (sidereal) zodiac in a period of time that itself varies in length significantly over the course of history as our Solar System moves relative to other stars in the Milky Way, but is currently scientifically estimated to be about 25,770 years. This unit of time has been named the Great Year. The Great Ages

The fixed (sidereal) zodiac, like the tropical zodiac, has been carved into twelve signs each of equal 30 arc. By taking the vernal point (i.e. 0 Aries in the tropical zodiac) as our primary reference point and observing how it coincides with the backdrop of the fixed zodiac at any point in time, we can declare that we are in a Great Age corresponding to the name of the sidereal sign in which the vernal point is currently found. According to the model of the sidereal zodiac popularised by Fagin and Bradley, the vernal point last crossed 0 Aries in the fixed zodiac around 221 A.D.. The Great Year, divided into the twelve sidereal signs, works out to about 2147.5 years per sign. This means that by Fagin and Bradley's measure the Earth has have been experiencing the Great Age of Pisces since 221 A.D. and will continue to do so until about 2368 A.D., when the Great Age of Aquarius will commence. However, it is worth remembering that the sidereal zodiac, while supposedly fixed against the constellations, is an arbitrary device, rounded up into thirty-degree signs, when the constellations themselves are not. Therefore, depending on where they choose to draw the boundaries between the constellations, astrologers frequently depart from Fagin and Bradley's model and arrive at variant views of the time at which the vernal point should be held to pass from one sidereal sign to the next. A fine example of this is found in the practice of stellar astrology, a model of sidereal astrology which instead of rounding up the constellations into equal signs delimits their starts and ends individually, in accordance with their exact boundaries, allowing thus for their differing natural arc coverages. Robert Hand noted that if the dawning of the Age of Pisces was referenced from the time when the first star in the constellation Pisces was passed through by the vernal point, the Age of Pisces could be said to have begun around 111 B.C.. If 2147.5 years were added to this year to represent the standardised duration of a Great Age, we would have a projected date of around 2036 A.D. for entry into the Age of Aquarius. Yet, Hand also noted that the vernal point would pass through the last star in the constellation Pisces in 2813 A.D.. On that measure, the inhabitants of the Earth will not experience the Age of Aquarius for the next eight centuries. It should be borne in mind that there has been much hype and speculation with regard to the influence of the Great Ages on cycles of human history and mass consciousness in the last fifty years, but that prior to the 19th century the precession of the equinoxes was not regarded as a phenomenon of any noteworthy astrological impact at all. From the point of view of tropical astrology, the only significant factor to take into consideration with precession is the gradual displacement within the tropical zodiac of the individual major fixed stars which, when closely conjunct a point in the birth chart, are believed to have a bearing on the life of the individual. If there is any generalised influence exacted by the passing of the vernal point through the sidereal signs, or more accurately the constellations, then it is likely to relate in character to the qualities ascribed to the constellations being transited by it, but certainly not to the tropical signs of the same name. Thus the Age of Pisces would be influential in accordance with the meaning of Pisces as a sidereal sign, which is altogether distinct from Pisces as a tropical sign; and the same principle applies to the Age of Aquarius, many popular speculative attributions of characteristics to which betray their derivation in preconceived notions of the nature of the tropical sign Aquarius, which in the context of the Age of Aquarius is both astronomically and astrologically immaterial. A thorough grounding in sidereal astrology, and, more specifically, the influences ascribed by it to each sidereal sign, as distinct from the liked-named tropical sign, is surely needed for the Great Ages to be astrologically interpreted with any authority or accuracy. Positive vs. Negative signs The signs of the zodiac are alternately deemed positive or masculine and negative or feminine, forming six adjacent pairs of polarised value. The positive signs are of the Elements Fire and Air, while the negative ones are of the Elements Earth and Water. The positive signs, in their general character and by natural aspects thrown to every other sign, have a mutual sympathy but a relative mutual antipathy with the negative signs, which in turn have a mutual sympathy with each other. The positive signs are considered more favorable to public acclaim than the negative signs, on account of the relatively extroverted character of the former compared with the latter. The masculine and feminine polarities theory, developed by Ptolemy in unified application to the planets and signs, and inherited by astrological tradition ever since, has attracted much controversy. James Wilson remarked: 'I would advise the student to give himself no trouble about the sex of the planets, but to study their influence'. Influences of the Elements The Elements, divided into Fire, Air, Earth and Water, were named to metaphorically represent observed characteristics of the signs in each grouping. Karen Hamaker-Zondag regards the elements as representing one's psychological perspective on reality. Each element is represented symbolically by its fixed sign, which is believed to typify it most closely. Thus, the Fire element, or Inspirational Nature, is depicted by the lion; the Earth element, or Practical Nature, is depicted by the bull; the Air element, or Intellectual Nature, is depicted by the water-bearer; and the Water element, or Emotional Nature, is depicted by the scorpion.

Fire The Fire element, anciently deemed Moral and associated with the contemplation of spiritual aspirations, conduct and character, is characterised by energy, enthusiasm, adventurousness, excitability, passion, activity, dynamism, impulsiveness, spontaneity, openness, honesty, naivet, romanticism, ardency, self-sufficiency, self-belief, forcefulness, and intuitiveness. Those with Fire strongly marked in their nativities may appear headstrong, rapid, fearless, courageous, spirited, independent, solitary, pioneering, self-centred in the pursuit of their personal needs, impatient, disinterested in material truths, inclined to pursue conceptual possibilities, and sometimes hopelessly impractical, overindulgent, unable to commit, disinterested in others, bossy, arrogant, inclined to push themselves past their physical limits, or demanding to the point of being overwhelming. Routine work is intolerably dull for them. But they can be deeply insightful in response to experiences. Too much Fire in a nativity can induce restlessness, over-activity leading to exhaustion and burn-out, lack of selfrestraint, wildness, extravagance, self-indulgence, recklessness, egotism and vanity. Too little Fire is manifested by low self-confidence, absence of enthusiasm, pessimism, faithlessness, slowness to overcome psychological trauma, an inclination to shirk from the demands of life, listlessness, lack of physical vigour, and poor digestion. Earth The Earth element, anciently deemed Physical and associated with the contemplation of body functions and needs, is characterised by groundedness in reality and the physical world, practicality, common sense, carefulness, scepticism with regard to the abstract, sensuality, materialism, stillness, patience, composure, leisureliness, tenacity, perserverance, endurance, dependability, good organisation, economy, emotional self-control or repression, and conservatism; and potentially closed-mindedness. Those with Earth strongly marked are inclined to value material security and physical beauty, and to test all concepts against sensorily perceptible evidence. They love food, massages, and other sensual pleasures. They are at peace with what life's limitations, tend to be poorly comprehending of the value placed by others on the realms of the imagination, and may lack the ability to draw natural connections of understanding. Too much Earth in a nativity can manifest as a lack of imagination, narrowness of outlook, cynicism, pragmatism devoid of ideals, and excessive psychological dependency on work status. Too little Earth is manifested by disconnection from material and practical necessities, a feeling of being societal and vocational alienation, absorption in an alternative reality of spiritual and creative distractions, and physical self-neglect. Air The Air element, anciently deemed Intellectual and associated with mental concepts and thought processes, is characterised by reasoning ability, logic, intellect, the creation of ideas, inquisitiveness, abstract and theoretical thinking, analysis, thirst for knowledge, study, objectivity, clarity, impartiality, alertness, collectedness, detachedness, aloofness, elusiveness, precise and abundant communicativeness, flexibility, and idealism. Those with Air strongly marked tend to look on the world from a dispassionate distance, and to be fascinated by and very observant of people, with a tendency to analyse the behaviour of self and others to draw logical inferences. Their minds are excellent at drawing connections and devising theories of cause and effect, then testing them experimentally if only by human observation; but their concerns may sometimes appear superficial to others, and their theories may have little objective practical value to the rest of the world. Frequently they deny feelings or dilute them in filtering them through rational analysis prior to expression, limiting intimacy. They need space to themselves to think things over, and freedom from being excessively tied down to long-term feelings, commitments and projects that will demand too much time; and are inclined to spread themselves broadly. Too much Air in a nativity can lead to isolation from the outside world through being locked into the personal sphere of one's mind, an inclination to contemplate ideas without ever converting them into realities, a risk of being besieged by excessive mental anxieties, stasis in the life as action is forever postponed by thought, and nervous system disorders. Too little Air can manifest as problems and practical burdens stemming from a lack of considered forethought, trouble coping with reason and integrating and accepting new ideas, and excessive subjectivity leading to relationship difficulties. Water

The Water element, anciently deemed Aesthetic and associated with soul yearnings and emotional responses, is characterised by intuitiveness, sympathy, sensitivity, impressionability, emotion, caring, kindness, gentleness, charitability, moodiness, responsiveness, reflectiveness; connectedness to the unconscious self; perceptiveness of human nature, and of others' motivation and under-the-surface currents of consciousness; inner reserves of psychological strength in the face of adversity; clinginess; the faculty of merging one's consciousness with all that lies outside oneself; the urge to dissolve alienation and unite in universal love and harmony; sometimes instability; and occasionally vindictiveness. Those with Water strongly marked crave stimulation, and tend to evaluate experiences and observations with reference to the feelings these evoke in them, as opposed to by reason, drawing direct awareness from their emotional connections with all outside. They are sometimes empathic to the extent of being able to absorb others' identities (and at the very least their feelings) into their own being, and responsive on reflex to the extent of appearing unfeeling and automated. Because of their lack of psychic boundaries, they are susceptible to suffering from the troubled or negative energies of others, while if troubled themselves they can lead others to suffer by the intrusiveness of their own energies on the environment. Many conceal their sensitivity behind an unemotional persona, or blend in seamlessly with their environment to hide their individuality. Too much Water in a nativity can manifest as a lack of anchoring stability or self-direction of destiny in the life, excessive susceptibility to being pushed around through life by circumstances and people in the environment, inability to cope with normal social functioning as psychic sensitivity and emotional impressionability are so great, lack of clarity about what it is that one yearns for, excessive clinging to others to hide from self-awareness, and a need to continually eliminate residual emotional impressions in order to retain one's composure and self-identity. Too little Water is manifested by a shortfall in connectedness to the feelings of themselves and others, a fear of emotional risk-taking, and in extreme cases a total denial of the personal emotions; a cold, unsympathetic outlook on others; a lack of trust in intuition; a tendency to loneliness that cannot be bridged; and an inclination to accumulate toxins in the body, which can only be overcome by careful diet and opening up more to one's emotional nature. Influences of the Constitutions Karen Hamaker-Zondag regards the constitutions, which she terms crosses, but which have also been known as qualities and modes, as representing the manner in which one assimilates one's psychological impressions of reality. Bil Tierney describes them as showing the manner of acting and reacting when faced with particular situations and goals. The Cardinal constitution, also known as Movable, Acute, Leading, Changeable or Initiating, is characterised by fast, busy, little-planned activity and decisions; an energetic, outgoing nature and world focus; initiative; enterprise; a drive for progress; impatience with obstacles and delays; but adaptedness to external circumstances when directing one's drive. Some cardinal signs (Cancer and Libra) are better than others (Aries and Capricorn) at seeking the co-operation of people outside the self, which is needed for the realisation of progressive drives. The Fixed constitution, also known as Grave or Executive, is characterised by stability, tenacity, patience, persistence and stamina; constructiveness; a methodological, controlled approach to activity, with a view to completion; strong desires; resistance to being controlled or governed; stubbornness in the face of pressure; a tendency to be set in habits; adaptedness to one's inner values and needs, with an interest in the unveiling to the conscious self of the personal unconscious; and relatively little concern about the perceptions held by others of oneself. The Mutable constitution, also known as Dual, Common or Flexed, is characterised by swiftness, versatility, mediation skill, transience, changeability, adaptability; perennial youthfulness; dissolution and redistribution of the obsolete; submergeance of the ego; curiosity; love of variety; a mental orientation; openness to learning; observancy of life; the search for understanding; inclination to serve others; indecisiveness; scattered application of energies; a lack of clear direction; free-flowing psychic and nervous energy; and elusiveness. It is capable of rapidly switching between inward and outward orientation. People with this constitution strongly marked benefit from, and sometimes depend upon, contact with others of a more definitely cardinal or fixed nature to lead them to find themselves. Symbolism of the Signs Aries is represented by the horned head of a ram, traditionally a weapon of the gods, and a symbol of will and the power to attack; by a sprouting grain, indicating the flourishing of new life; or by a metaphysical fork in the road. Aries is considered as the embodiment of Self. Taurus is represented by the horned head of a bull, which is related to the ancient Egyptian sacred Apis cult, whereby bulls were buried in tombs and regarded as incarnations of Ptah, the god of Memphis, and Osiris, the god of the dead and resurrection. Taurus is considered the manifestation of the Self. Gemini is represented by two pieces of wood joined together, indicating the conflict between two opposing processes of

mind. The symbol is associated with Castor and Pollux, and with the Pillars of Hercules. Gemini signifies the relationship between the Self and substance. Cancer is represented by the claws of a crab, or the male and female progenitors of new embryonic life - in line with the sign's association with nurturance and parenthood. Cancer describes the living organism. Leo is represented by the lion's tail, or the nimbus of the Sun, indicating the creative energy and splendour of the cosmos. Virgo is represented by the Girdle of Hymen, referring to the Immaculate Conception of a saviour of the world. It is also represented by a virgin holding a green branch or an ear of grain. It indicates the differentiation of sex. Libra is represented by the balancing scales, signifying justice and equilibrium - clues to the sign's association with cooperation; or by the Sun setting on the horizon. Libra signifies cosmic reciprocity. Scorpio is represented by the two legs and tail of a scorpion, its diagonal upwards-pointing arrow of tail signifying the sign's attacking power and traditional domicile rulership by Mars. It stands for cosmic purpose. Sagittarius is represented by an arrow drawn upwards from part of a bow, indicating aspiration and effort applied to farflung ideals. Sagittarius stands for cosmic progress. Capricorn is represented by the head of a goat with the tail of a fish, which has been thought to symbolise the union of Christian and Jewish religiosity, and perhaps the contrast within the sign's psychology between practical aspiration and a sensitive inner consciousness. Capricorn signifies cosmic order and justice. Aquarius is represented by a stream of water, depicting vibrational waves, such as those of an electrical nature, highlighting the sign's sensitivity on such levels; and by a man upturning a jug of water, denoting the liberal cosmic distribution of subtle vibratory energies. Aquarius denotes the co-ordination of spirit and matter via the humanitarian principle. Pisces is represented by a pair of sea-horses tie together with a yoke, yet attempting to swim in vertically opposite directions. This symbol indicates being bonded to others, inhibited from self-expression, and torn between death and life, between failure and success, or between the unconscious depths and the surface of consciousness. Pisces stands for selfdenial. Influence of each Sign The essential archetypal influence of each sign of the tropical zodiac as as filter on the character of any planet, luminary or house cusp. Aries Aries embodies the will to commence, and to launch new activities, without much regard for where they are leading, just following the impulse to act and to manifest in reality what is already held in potential in its inner nature. The grain springing forth from the earth suggested in one interpretation of the glyph for Aries symbolises this dynamic drive. Aries lacks moderation and focuses more on the present than the future, which often leads to reckless overexpenditure of assets. Aries resembles its symbol of the horned ram in its forcefulness and impulsiveness, and its tendency to throw itself into endeavours with little forethought. Energy is sent forth wildly and with excitable but often short-lived enthusiasm, and flashes of inspiration and passion which are muted almost as suddenly as they are released. Centred in the assertion of the personal will, Aries can be naive and oblivious to the effects of its forward reach on others, and in the face of unexpected opposition may shrink backwards, surprised and hurt. Viewed as a metaphysical fork in the road, the glyph for Aries illustrates choice of direction. Aries relishes its autonomy and power to freely decide upon its own destiny. Aries rules the head down to and including the upper jaw; and the Aries glyph as a mark of the human nose and eyebrows emphasises the concentration of the sign's energy in the front of the brain. Intelligence, and the power to forge new ideas, is key to the successful exercising of Arien free will. Taurus Taurus forms the initiative of Aries into substance. The glyph shows a continuing upsurge in power, hewn usefully into the shape of a wheel that is able to regulate and manage this energy, and to support material weights. Thus, Taurus harnesses the Arien life force, transmuting it into practically utilisable form, and setting down firm roots with a view to

durability. The horned bull associated with Taurus holds clues to the fertility, solid physique and at times primal eroticism of Taureans. Taurus gravitates to the realm of its finely-tuned senses, yet also feels emotionally, and loves intensely but sustainedly. Straight-talking and consistent, Taurus has a strong and stubborn will, and having established an opinion or desire will persist with unflappable resolution. Faced with opposition or dissent, the normally placid Taurean spirit can slowly build up anger, which when finally released can be powerful and dramatic. Occasionally Taurus can manifest in bullying behaviour to the end of enforcing its will. However, the more bullish Taurean type is usually tameable into a peaceable family-oriented type centred in a purpose of secure homemaking. Taurus has a careful eye and steadily motivating will for conserving and building material resources, assets and possessions. The acquisition of financial wealth is a strong and spiritually rewarding drive and natural ability. The glyph for Taurus has also been interpreted as a crescent Moon rising above the Sun, symbolising the succession of the solar principle of vital self-expression (related by exaltation to Aries) by the lunar one of feeling and response (related by exaltation to Taurus). Taurus rules the neck, the lower jaw, and the throat. Gemini The glyph for Gemini evokes an integrated network or circuit forged between dual columns, representing the principle of inter-relation and interaction, with emphasis on reasonable, co-operative interpersonal communication, and more abstractly the metaphysical web of causality. Sometimes the interconnected 'duality' of Gemini's glyph, and of its archetypal 'twins' symbol, is interpreted as an indication of the ability of this versatile, playful sign to assume multiple identities or personalities, shifting its persona to suit the occasion; or as a reminder of its ability to spread itself across multiple fields of activity with speed and ease. As a human sign, Gemini is unwilling to orient itself solely in primitive animal impulses, demanding a connection to the essence of spirit, which it seeks out and integrates within its world concept by applying its inherent intelligence. Thus, the connection of the divine with the material in human consciousness is highlighted. Gemini has the inclination to study and the capability of deciphering the connections inherent in any observed phenomenon or between apparently separate entities. Logic and rational order are attributes of Gemini's outlook, with comparison, contrast, categorisation and systematisation being natural drives, and verbal skill being pronounced. Gemini rules the human nervous system, conferring a strongly mental orientation and acute nervous sensitivity to the sign, and a rapid speed of thought and movement. It also rules the arms, hands and lungs. Cancer Cancer's glyph, with its strategically placed curves to front and rear, shielding the womb-like circles in which the vulnerable inner self is symbolically wrapped up, evokes the defensive self-containment for which the sign is noted, and its preference for what is securely known and trusted, with roots in the past. The crab image also evokes Cancer's selfdefensiveness and tough outwardly projected manner, with its hard shell concealing and protecting a soft inner core. The two curves are snugly locked together (likened thus to male and female partners) as though in mutual support and protection, and exclusion of the outer world, which fittingly describes Cancer's instincts to gravitate closely towards loved ones, and especially family, while keeping outsiders at bay. Cancer invests a great amount of motherly, caring interest in every detail of the lives of those it takes under its wings. Indeed, once something or someone is accepted as an insider to its realm, tenacious emotional attachment sets in, often manifesting in clinging and possessive orientations, as symbolised by the crab's claws. When its feelings are denied, Cancer can suffer but persist unrelentingly. But if they are injured beyond a certain point, it may withdraw intractably and close off its vulnerability from further exposure to hurt. The symbol has additionally been perceived as two bowls or receptacles, the upper one of which, upturned, releases its contents, while the lower one holds its contents. This describes the sign's observable polarity of inclination between tenacity and self-centred acquisition, on the one hand, and giving and self-denial, on the other. Cancer is subjective, responsive, anxious, maternal, sheltering, domestic, tenderly feeling, in contact with the unconscious self and with the sentiments of the masses, and naturally attuned to the rhythms of the Moon and the waves of the sea. It associates food with love, spends cautiously, is inclined to hoard keepsakes, and has the ability to magnetise dependents. Not especially noted for its physical strength, Cancer rules the chest and stomach, which are connected with the sign's

natural functions of feeding, nurturing and general physical sustenance. Leo The outward-facing curved glyph for Leo, evoking the sun's rays coursing out liberally, or an upturned cup releasing all its contents, symbolises free, extroverted self-expression. Leo is concerned with individuation, establishing itself with a distinct identity, and then seeks uncompromising selfmastery without interference, pursuing its personal goals and interests wilfully. Leo is proud, has a flair for dramatic self-projection, thrives on admiration and attention, possesses a regal air, demands respect, likes to be looked up to in status, and manoeuvres itself by instinct into positions of influence and power over others. It follows its feelings, but those feelings are referenced back to self-esteem and how that is supported, glorified or contradicted by the apparent perceptions of and responses to it by others. It thus expresses generosity and magnanimity to those who show respect and support its vulnerable ego, and can indeed be genuinely very warm to them, but tends towards chilly exclusion of those who do not. It can also extend this behaviour on behalf of friends, loyally pitching in to defend their interests and reputations from perceived threats. Leo's attitude to finances would be considered reckless by some. Given a choice, it veers towards the upper end of the price range, seeking out what it regards as of high quality in preference to economy. Leo rules the heart and spine. Virgo Virgo's glyph, in addition to representing female virginity generally, marks out the letter 'M' in representation of the Virgin Mary. These associations are symbolic of Virgo's aspiration for purity, refinement and perfection of adherence to its own self-set ideals (which rarely literally include sexual abstinence: on the contrary, Virgo will simply apply high and particular standards of expectation to the sensual areas of life as all others). When a tempting relationship prospect does not quite adhere to Virgo's ideals, Virgo will typically be self-denying although its desires can be strong and its emotional sensitivity acute. Yet it can often seem one small step away from letting go of inner guilt and totally immersing itself in its wilder impulses. The picture of the virgin holding a sheaf of wheat is an indication of Virgo's powers of fine discrimination: it harvests only the best according to its particular self-programmed criteria. Indeed, Virgo is sharp-minded, alert, highly observant of detail, meticulous, analytical, organisation-conscious, and impeccably orderly, with a very precise sense of timing and the mental power to discern the component factors underlying every observed phenomenon, and the rational flaws and weaknesses in any theory, argument or proposition. Virgo has a strong work ethic and drive, and is comfortable with positions of juniority to others, and willing to undertake persistent, routine tasks as an ethically sound means to the end of subsistence and financial security, regarding work as a moral duty, and service as being next to godliness, although any status and recognition conferred in the work arena will be much prized by it. Interpersonal communication is second nature to Virgo. One manifestation of Virgo's detail-consciousness and desire to be of service is its attraction to medicine. It also has a strong interest in diet, health and hygiene; and it is drawn to nature as adapted to human needs and desires. Virgo rules the stomach, pancreas, intestines and digestive system. Libra Libra's glyph, showing the Sun half-set below the horizon, represents the Autumn equinox when the Sun enters Libra and days and nights are of equal length. Yet symbolically it describes the sign's sense of balance, fairness and equality, which is more directly shown by the picture of the scales held by Justice in one hand, through its association with the weighing up of opposing interests. Yet, Justice holds in its other hand a sword. Indeed, in the absence of its sense of justice being fulfilled, Libra suffers internal distress and disharmony, and holds out strongly on the position it advocates until the matter is put right. Tranquil and conciliatory when all is well in its world, Libra will not shy from the war-path when faced with opposition to its ideals; and its strong debating skills, aided by its objectivity, will stand it in good stead for victory. Libra's leaning to harmony and balance and sensitivity to feeling out of balance confers it also with fine artistic sensibilities, a love of beauty, and a keen awareness of social decorum and propriety.

The parallel lines of Libra's glyph are a reminder of Libra's strong attraction to relating and partnership, and frequent idealisation of love and marriage. Libran identity is bound up with the idea of connection to another or others in general. Yet Libra will not enter into partnerships lightly, regarding them as important commitments, and often exercising its right to choose at the outset not to get involved. Libra rules the kidneys and endocrine system, both of which serve in their essential function the regulation of balance within the organism. Scorpio The glyph for Scorpio shows the legs and tail of the scorpion, signifying the power of the sign to suddenly and fatally (often with a hint of wilful cruelty or vindictiveness) 'sting' whatever and whomever may have hurt its feelings or denied its strong-willed desires. The glyph has also been interpreted as a modification of that for Virgo into a symbol of male sexuality and generative power; and in this regard the scorpion image evokes the baser, more sensual and selfish instincts of the sign; but on a psychic level Scorpio possesses penetrating insightfulness. An alternative image connected with Scorpio, that of the eagle, describes its potential for applying its creative energies to higher and wiser and more universal purposes. The eagle holds aloft symbols of war (arrows) and peace (an olive branch), representing Scorpio's choice between the two, yet fixes its eyes firmly on the peace symbol. The sign's capacity for the regeneration and resurrection of viable vital states from the waste of the past is symbolised by its further association with the image of a phoenix rising from ashes; and dramatic self-transformation is no stranger to this sign, often following the realisation that its current state or situation is not affording the fulfilment of its deepest desires and needs. Scorpio, like Virgo, is highly discriminating and selective; and it will often quite brutally reject what does not meet its demanding self-set standards. Yet its key criteria in discriminating are perceived usefulness and depth. Its eye for usefulness makes it an unrestrained destroyer of all that is obsolete and an efficient handler of finances, particularly funds owned by others; and like Taurus it has an acquisitive drive. Its fascination with depth of experience and understanding interests it in psychology, sex, danger, death, and theories of an afterlife. Scorpio has a potent and mysterious charisma that operates below surface consciousness and polarises others into strong feelings of attraction or repulsion. It admires intelligence, strength of character and a forthright manner, is fiercely loyal to friends, and can be a very unforgiving foe once offended. Scorpio expresses itself directly, to the point, without regard for others' sensitivities; sometimes with a barbed wit. It will hold forth on its ideals and beliefs with consistency, and fight to the bitter end. Yet it also is a master of reserve and control, and can hold back from speaking its mind when appropriate, then release its contents for maximum effect at the most timely moment. Scorpio rules the reproductive organs. Influence of each Sign, continued... Sagittarius The arrow of Sagittarius's glyph, aimed heavenward, symbolises the desire of this sign for elevation to new heights, and its harbouring of high ideals and moral principles. It envisions an ideal prospect, then sets its sights on the pursuit of its vision. Very often its visions lie in the mental sphere of higher understanding, as for example via religious or philosophical contemplation, but they can centre around the seeking of any more advanced level of knowledge. Exuberant and enthusiastic, Sagittarius is also openly communicative about its discoveries and theories, is a natural teacher or preacher, sometimes veering into proselytization; and enjoys appreciation for its mental ingenuity and foresight. Sagittarius is the consummate truth-seeker, and regards honesty as a primary moral imperative, failure to honour which by anyone results in that person fundamentally forfeiting the Sagittarian's respect. Whereas Scorpio is often motivated to honesty more strategically, as though purposely to sting by truth-telling, Sagittarius is naive to the potential effect of its own bluntness on others, and is so forthright and straightforward in expressing its view of the truth that sometimes it makes unwitting social blunders. Sagittarius also often demonstrates an off-beat, detached way of looking at the world; and a blas disregard for small but important details as it prefers to focus on the broader picture. It has a natural eye for comedy (although with some surprising blind spots), and an attraction to the jokers, clowns and showpeople of the world. This sign tends to be over-optimistic and excessively trusting in others' honesty until proven wrong. It can therefore suffer many disappointments in human nature, and depression of its own optimistic inclinations periodically. It also has a

weakness for gambling. Sagittarius has a vibrant, rapid, slightly highly-strung energetic quality, similarly to its polar sign Gemini. Yet it rules the thighs, in keeping with the love of the sign for freedom of movement, mental and physical alike, and attraction to sports and games, walking and running, or at least driving and travel. Its representation by a centaur, with the body of a horse, highlights its rapid mobility and inclination to 'buck' and rebel in the face of any restrictive imposition on its freedom. Capricorn The symbol of Capricorn, the goat with a fish's tail, derives from the Greek legend of Pan, a God who so amused the other Gods by transforming himself into this form that they created his likeness in a constellation. Yet it is relevant to the purposeful practicality and ambition of Capricorn tempered by a more sensitive, psychic inner potential and a knack for swimming with the flow of society. Capricorn has the capability of rendering abstractions and visions into material, durable form. It champions the disciplined establishment of social order and structure on behalf of the collective. Like Virgo, Capricorn is willing to work hard playing second fiddle for the greater good, and in keeping with the rules of the system, at least for as long as it takes to earn the right to a higher position. It is outwardly humble and often self-effacing, and prone to bouts of pessimism bordering on depression, yet unflinchingly maintains an inner flame of determination, and is strongly ambitious to attain the realistic goals it sets itself. Steady and capable persistence along tried and tested paths are its key to achievement. By respecting procedures, authorities and superiors along the way, it is favoured for promotion. Just as the mountain goat by which it is depicted slowly but surely ascends the mountain without looking back, so Capricorn methodically pursues its long-term goals with an eye to the peak of attainment. However, Capricorn can sometimes barely hide its unvoiced contempt for those it regards as its inferiors, while its desire for personal preferment and valuing of worldly achievement can lead it to approach the successful and influential with an almost mercenary exaggerated solicitude and attentiveness. A strong Capricorn skill is persuasion. It is able by its manner to engage popularity; and when it expresses some personal desire in interaction with others it will turn on the charm until they submit, not taking 'no' for an answer. Capricorn has a strong attachment to its family and feeling of duty towards it. It also has abundant sympathy for non-human animals. Capricorn is known for caution and reserve of expression, at least in unfamiliar and formal situations. Among the most trusted friends and loved ones, it can dissolve its impassive veneer, releasing and generously sharing its vast expanse of inner feeling potential. Indeed, while it appreciates quiet moments to itself, Capricorn is otherwise a very socially oriented breed, and will typically take its assumed responsibilities for social organisation just as seriously as its career. For all its long-term resilience, Capricorn can be very impatient with short-term irritations and frustrations. As the cardinal Earth sign, Capricorn is prone to strong physical attractions to others. It is at home in the material world, frequently possessing craft and cookery skills, and enjoying fabrics and food immensely. Capricorn rules the knees, bones, joints, teeth and nails. Aquarius The Aquarian glyph denoting electrical vibrations is a clue to this sign's psychic attunements. Aquarius connects spiritually with all of humanity, acknowledges no superiors and inferiors, championing equality, and is capable of radiating through this psychic attunement the highest forms of good will towards every being, but also of receiving disturbing precognitions and revealing insights into the inner psyche of other individuals. Because of its vibrational sensitivity, Aquarius demands plenty of space, and suffers from being cramped, made demands of or restricted in any sense. By its essential nature, it prefers to relate collectively to a group rather than individually; and its tendency to analyse can sometimes pose a barrier to intimacy. Sometimes it harbours ideals of social reform and seeks to have them implemented by promoting them within like-minded campaign groups. Mentally, Aquarius is original and visionary, as well as being objective and analytical. Although it is also concerned with more abstract ideals and artistic innovations, Aquarius is most strongly associated with scientific discovery and the germination of new ideas that have a distinctly practical application or social value; and it is often attracted to new technology and to the creative moulding of matter, with applications ranging from home improvements and architectural vision to body art and abstract sculpture. The Aquarian mind is fast, and is inclined to make decisions suddenly on the intuition of the moment, but then keeps to them rigidly, and can come to seem set in its ways and conservative about certain issues, although prior to arriving at such determinations it is open-minded towards almost everything, and it has a fascination for what stands out as obscure or unusual in its own culture and era, which may include ancient history, early music and all forms of esotericism.

Like Capricorn, Aquarius generally works steadily and hard and is moderately ambitious for career success, along lines of work that are socially meaningful or exercise its particular practical skills. But it will never foresake its principles of equality in serving its own personal ambitions. Occasionally Aquarius detaches itself so far from the norms of society as to be perceived as an eccentric, rebel or outcast. But the sign generally enjoys a good measure of unpressured social involvement albeit without having to compromise its own particular style or suffer the bonds of heavy commitment. Aquarius rules the aura, the ankles and the circulatory system. Pisces The symbol of the two sea-horses tied together and attempting in futility to swim in opposite directions has been viewed as shedding light on the sign's internal contradictions of intent and direction, with confusion frequently being experienced, but the complementary coexistence of such opposing drives being attainable through applied selfawareness. The glyph has also been interpreted as a pair of crescent Moons, highlighting the lunar qualities of impressionability and imagination for which Pisces is known. Sometimes charged with escapism, self-deception or fantasy, Pisces is generally simply perceiving and exploring deeper realms of sensibility, consciousness, possibility and creativity than many are willing to countenance. Like Aquarius, Pisces is frequently psychic, and highly intuitive. Pisces is one of the most creative and artistic of all the signs, attractions to dancing, music, poetry, drama and painting being common among those in whose nativities it is strongly marked. It is also a deeply spiritually motivated sign for which material ambition is not typically a primary goal. It desires to explore the full range of life's experiential possibilities, and personally craves union with the divine on whatever level it perceives that to exist. Yet, being sensitive to negative feedback, it does not always wish to draw too much attention to its inward differences with the rest of humanity in everyday life, and can sometimes seem to repress its own nature in striving to mould itself outwardly into the norms of the social and economic environment. The Piscean mind is deeply attuned to the unconscious, yet in addition to being open to realisations unfathomable to most signs, and naturally skilled in philosophical and religious contemplation, it can be very orderly, numerate and scientifically adept. Pisces is at times shy of personal emotional involvement because it is so impressionable and finely tuned that it can easily be hurt or have its sensitivity overwhelmed by others bringing their energies too close. But it is a very empathetic sign, and has the potential to share love and sympathy on many levels. Pisces rules the astral body and feet. Decanates The twelve signs have been traditionally subdivided into decanates or decans, each of ten degrees. Tropical astrology copied this practice from ancient sidereal astrology, which accorded rulership of one third of each constellation to the most prominent star in it. There are two principal conventions: 1. The most common in use today involves the attribution of a secondary sign influence from the same sign triplicity (or element) to each decanate of each sign. By this system, the first decanate is considered the pure or physical form of the sign; and planets posited therein should be interpreted with reference to their aspects to Mars in the nativity. The second decanate takes a secondary influence from the next sign of the same element after it in the zodiac, and is considered the mental form of the sign, any planet posited therein being interpreted with reference to its aspect to Mercury in the figure. The third decanate takes a secondary influence from the previous sign of the same element, and is considered the spiritual form of the sign, any planet posited therein being interpreted with reference to its aspects to Jupiter and Saturn in the figure, pinpointing how the spiritual will manifest (Jupiter) and where it will be tested (Saturn). Thus, the decanates takes on this pattern of colorations: Sign........|.Decan #1 (0-959'59")..|.#2 (10-1959'59")|.#3 (20-2959'59")| Aries.......|.Aries-Aries.............|.Aries-Leo.........|.Aries-Sagittarius.|

Taurus......|.Taurus-Taurus...........|.Taurus-Virgo......|.Taurus-Capricorn..| Gemini......|.Gemini-Gemini...........|.Gemini-Libra......|.Gemini-Aquarius...| Cancer......|.Cancer-Cancer...........|.Cancer-Scorpio....|.Cancer-Pisces.....| Leo.........|.Leo-Leo.................|.Leo-Sagittarius...|.Leo-Aries.........| Virgo.......|.Virgo-Virgo.............|.Virgo-Capricorn...|.Virgo-Taurus......| Libra.......|.Libra-Libra.............|.Libra-Aquarius....|.Libra-Gemini......| Scorpio.....|.Scorpio-Scorpio.........|.Scorpio-Pisces....|.Scorpio-Cancer....| Sagittarius.|.Sagittarius-Sagittarius.|.Sagittarius-Aries.|.Sagittarius-Leo...| Capricorn...|.Capricorn-Capricorn.....|.Capricorn-Taurus..|.Capricorn-Virgo...| Aquarius....|.Aquarius-Aquarius.......|.Aquarius-Gemini...|.Aquarius-Libra....| Pisces......|.Pisces-Pisces...........|.Pisces-Cancer.....|.Pisces-Scorpio....| 2. The second convention bases the influence on the rulership of each ten-degree Chaldean face by a particular planet in a set sequence (as explained in the first page of the Rulership and Dignities article, q.v.), producing the following associations: Sign........|.#1......|.#2......|.#3......| Aries.......|.Mars....|.Sun.....|.Venus...| Taurus......|.Mercury.|.Moon....|.Saturn..| Gemini......|.Jupiter.|.Mars....|.Sun.....| Cancer......|.Venus...|.Mercury.|.Moon....| Leo.........|.Saturn..|.Jupiter.|.Mars....| Virgo.......|.Sun.....|.Venus...|.Mercury.| Libra.......|.Moon....|.Saturn..|.Jupiter.| Scorpio.....|.Mars....|.Sun.....|.Venus...| Sagittarius.|.Mercury.|.Moon....|.Saturn..| Capricorn...|.Jupiter.|.Mars....|.Sun.....| Aquarius....|.Venus...|.Mercury.|.Moon....| Pisces......|.Saturn..|.Jupiter.|.Mars....| Dwa-da-Shamsas (Dwads) A further subdivision of the decanates with their secondary sign influences as expounded in the first table above is into 2 portions called Dwa-da-Shamsas or Dwads. The tertiary sign influence of the first dwad in each decan is accorded as for the secondary influence of the decan; then each subsequent dwad takes on a tertiary coloration of the following sign in the zodiac. Thus, for example, the complete dwad listing for Aries is as follows: Dwad.....|.Sign Influences...............| 0-2...|.Aries-Aries-Aries.............| 2-5...|.Aries-Aries-Taurus............| 5-7...|.Aries-Aries-Gemini............| 7-10..|.Aries-Aries-Cancer............| 10-12.|.Aries-Leo-Leo.................| 12-15.|.Aries-Leo-Virgo...............| 15-17.|.Aries-Leo-Libra...............| 17-20.|.Aries-Leo-Scorpio.............| 20-22.|.Aries-Sagittarius-Sagittarius.| 22-25.|.Aries-Sagittarius-Capricorn...| 25-27.|.Aries-Sagittarius-Aquarius....| 27-30.|.Aries-Sagittarius-Pisces......| According to Bernice Grebner, the decanate influence shows the purpose of the sign placement for the individual, while the dwad influence shows the conditions influencing the individual, or the means of dealing with problems presented by the placement.