The Houses 99
PLANETS IN THIS HOUSE ZODIAC SIGNS AND THIS HOUSE
Take a look at which planets fall in your 5th house to reveal Refine the picture by considering the signs in which your
how they influence your energies and focus. A full house will 5th-house planets reside and the sign on the cusp of the 5th
point to this being a highly significant area of your life. house in your chart.
The Sun You can be a natural performer or creative artist, ♈ Aries Sports might need to be action-packed, a way for you
happy to take a place in the spotlight or put your heart into to use up spare energy, or perhaps with an edge of danger.
your creative work. You seek attention and praise. Taking a risk might come naturally to you.
The Moon Attuned to the playful world of children, you ♉ Taurus Earthy media might appeal when it comes to your
have an easy creativity and fun-loving side. You might also choice of creative activity—making tangible objects. A
want your personal needs to be placed center stage. sensuous quality pervades romantic encounters.
Mercury Your creative impulse might involve words and ♊ Gemini For you, a love affair might be a meeting of minds,
communication—inventive writing or storytelling. You seek and attraction to lovers relies on intellectual connection. Your
praise for this, since this is a side of you that can shine. form of creativity is likely to be verbal.
Venus Romance needs to be at the heart of a relationship for ♋ Cancer It might be your caretaking skills that give you a
you, a sense that your worth and attractiveness are admired. sense of pride—or the family you have created. A vacation by
Creative skills might involve design or fashion. the ocean or in a place of retreat might suit you.
Mars For you, sexual potency might be a form of ♌ Leo Leo here reinforces the power of creativity as a means by
self-expression. Games are competitive, and having children which to feed a sense of life being joyful and meaningful. You
could bring your fighting spirit to life. bring warm-heartedness to love and romance.
Jupiter You might opt to have a large family or just enjoy ♍ Virgo You apply precision to your creative projects but might
indulging in vacations and recreation. Taking time out to play also have a tendency to hide your creative light. A working
can be rejuvenating. vacation might suit you more than complete relaxation.
Saturn Your chosen pastime might be chess or something ♎ Libra For you, a creative work must be beautiful and
equally strategic. Creative work can become a honed skill, well-designed, and you aim for perfection in this respect.
from event planning to sculpture or pottery. With lovers, too, you find classical beauty attractive.
Uranus You have potential for genuine creative originality, ♏ Scorpio Romance can be supported by loyalty and passion—
although your challenge might be to allow it to land and take although it might sometimes be broken by intrigues and
form, because each idea is rapidly superseded by the next. jealousies. Your sense of humor may have a risqué edge to it.
Neptune Music or poetry might appeal to you, and you may ♐ Sagittarius Long-distance running or archery might be the
find it easy to lose yourself in artistic activities. These can kind of sport you would enjoy. Your first choice of vacation
bring a sense of emotional and spiritual fulfillment. would probably be somewhere far away.
Pluto Having children, or being creative in other ways, can ♑ Capricorn You probably aren’t much of a gambler—or if you
be an all-consuming and transformative experience, giving are, you like to lower the odds and take only a calculated risk.
rise to a deep and unassailable power within yourself. Creativity and children get your serious attention to duty.
Chiron Perhaps adoption or surrogate children are part of ♒ Aquarius Being acknowledged for what makes you different
your experience. Any form of play can help to nurture the can increase a sense of being special and valuable. Romance
wounded child within, both in yourself and in others. might grow out of friendship and favor an open honesty.
♓ Pisces You can lose yourself in a romantic affair, transported
to paradise—or at times, taken for a ride, seeing your beloved
through rose-tinted spectacles.
100 The Houses
6th HOUSE
HEALTH AND WELL-BEING
The 6th is the house of work and service. Here, we humble ourselves to
the tasks at hand—the daily routines, duties, and maintenance that put bread
on the table and keep the body and mind in good working order.
Daily work Health
In the 6th house, we The 6th house describes
engage with the day-to-day health as daily maintenance.
reality of working life. It Physical routines keep
shows what the daily everything running well,
grind feels like to you and and this house will show
the adjustments you can what kind of daily workout
make to improve it. Your or health regime might suit
attitude toward work is you best.
also revealed here.
Routines and rituals Service
Activities here can be In the 6th, we find our
an important anchor, relationship to those who
encompassing all the serve or work for us. It also
mundane rituals that form describes how we serve
the backdrop to life. Most others and what feelings
of us would rather go on this evokes in us. Those who
vacation than mop the work in service industries
floor, but things grind to a might have planets in their
halt if we neglect chores. 6th house.
The Houses 101
PLANETS IN THIS HOUSE ZODIAC SIGNS AND THIS HOUSE
Take a look at which planets fall in your 6th house to reveal Refine the picture by considering the signs in which your
how they influence your energies and focus. A full house will 6th-house planets reside and the sign on the cusp of the 6th
point to this being a highly significant area of your life. house in your chart.
The Sun Working life can be an important focus for you, ♈ Aries Your routine is likely to be active, pushing yourself
perhaps in a field of health or service. You gain a sense of to achieve a lot in just 1 working day. You probably get through
purpose from being productive. the housework in no time at all.
The Moon Some kind of hospitality work might appeal to ♉ Taurus A slow working pace might suit you best, allowing
you, being good at looking after daily needs. Being in touch you to carry out each task without undue pressure. Good
with your inner feelings might be a key to good health. health is supported by honoring your body’s physical needs.
Mercury Your particular craft might involve using your ♊ Gemini You no doubt have a busy daily life, and your
hands for practical communication or a manual skill. Daily well-being benefits from this variety. You can be dexterous
work might involve networking in a mobile environment. with gadgets and curious to know how things work.
Venus Popular among work colleagues, you might be the ♋ Cancer Workmates might feel like family, and it is important
one who unites the workforce or solves industrial disputes. for you to feel emotionally in tune with them. Perhaps you
You need a peaceful environment in which to work. take on a motherly role, or your work involves caretaking.
Mars Everyday life is no doubt full of dynamic movement, ♌ Leo Because your sense of identity is linked to it, daily work
and you feel liveliest when you can work at your own fast needs to be stamped with your authority and be a dimension
pace. An active daily workout keeps you in good health. to which you apply your own unique and creative approach.
Jupiter You like to get heavily involved in chores, gaining ♍ Virgo You pay attention to the humble chores and are happy
satisfaction from a job well done. You might take on too much, to spend time doing the background work properly. Care and
overestimating how much you can achieve in 1 day. discrimination over your diet can support your health.
Saturn You can take your duties very seriously. You might be ♎ Libra Diplomacy can be a useful tool in the workplace,
good at DIY or construction, with an eye to ensuring things helping you to create the harmonious environment you
work efficiently. need. Well-being comes from physical balance and poise.
Uranus You probably need some excitement in your daily ♏ Scorpio Health can be supported by an intense workout or
routine. Being a freelancer might suit you, so you can set your by throwing yourself into your daily tasks. Periods of intense
own routine and timetable. activity need to be followed by rest to prevent burnout.
Neptune Your skill might be to play a musical instrument, ♐ Sagittarius Your daily routine might take you far afield,
with daily practice to perfect your artistry. A pressured work and you need freedom in your working life, as well as an
environment may not suit you. atmosphere of good humor among colleagues.
Pluto Chores might be left until they feel overwhelming, ♑ Capricorn You like to know that things have been done
followed by a great purge. An intense daily workout and properly and that attention has been paid to the details.
attention to nutrition keeps the system in good order. You like useful and productive systems.
Chiron You might have a particular interest or profession ♒ Aquarius You might work in a community of people or in
in complementary health. You can be a compassionate a technological or scientific field. A belief in equality for the
mentor to your colleagues. workers can underpin your choice of job.
♓ Pisces Daily life has its own flow, and timekeeping may not
be your forte. You might resist the ordinary nature of daily
chores, but these can bring some much-needed structure.
"CONCEIVED IN THEIR
TOTALITY, [THE HOUSES]
UNFOLD A PROCESS OF
SUPREME SIGNIFICANCE—
THE STORY OF THE
EMERGENCE AND
DEVELOPMENT OF
A HUMAN BEING."
Howard Sasportas, The Twelve Houses
104 The Houses
7th HOUSE
RELATIONSHIPS
The 7th house traditionally denotes marriage and partnership, but also the idea of
“open enemies,” quarrels, and disputes. It is the house of contractual partnership, but
also of litigation. A deeper look reveals the interesting links between these things.
The other half Projection
The 7th is our sense of The psychologist Carl Jung
“other.” We might say that talked about projection as
it constitutes our “shadow,” a mechanism by which a
being a set of characteristics person identifies a trait or
we do not consciously behavior as belonging to
identify with. We are someone else, unaware
attracted to whatever is in that it actually belongs to
our 7th, sensing it to be a themselves. In the 7th, we
missing part of the picture. are prone to this.
Relationships Open enemies
This is the house of The 7th house is the
marriage and other “house of open enemies.”
contractual partnerships. It is the place of litigation
Whether your desire is to and the lower courts, where
put a ring on it or you prefer disputes between two
to be footloose, the sign on warring parties are settled.
the Descendant and planets We might indeed see
in the 7th will have a large partnership as a form of
part to play. combat.
The Houses 105
PLANETS IN THIS HOUSE ZODIAC SIGNS AND THIS HOUSE
Take a look at which planets fall in your 7th house to reveal Refine the picture by considering the signs in which your
how they influence your energies and focus. A full house will 7th-house planets reside and the sign on the cusp of the 7th
point to this being a highly significant area of your life. house in your chart.
The Sun For you, relationships are at the heart of life—but ♈ Aries With Libra rising, you aim for fairness and impartiality—
you need to find your own individuality through the relating yet in the relating process, you develop a more warriorlike side
process, an important arena for your self-development. that complements and balances this.
The Moon You reach out to others in a spirit of caring, being ♉ Taurus You seek stability and long-term loyalty in your
attuned to their needs and sensitive to their feelings. You may dealings with others. This can counterbalance your Scorpio
seek and offer nurturing and protection in your relationships. Ascendant’s intense approach to life.
Mercury You might be attracted to intellect or a need for ♊ Gemini You are drawn to dialogue with others and may need
relationships based on communication and mental connection. variety and humor in a relationship. You learn to articulate to
You stimulate the thought process in others. others the visions of Sagittarius rising.
Venus Relationships are a mirror for your own sense ♋ Cancer Relationships bring out a more sentimental side than
of value, making it important for you to receive positive your Capricorn persona initially suggests. Wanting to create a
feedback. You seek a partner who is gracious and cultured. family and a safe nest might determine your choice of partner.
Mars Relationships are a medium for developing ♌ Leo A secret desire for praise and attention might lie behind
self-assertion—but they can also become a place where your friendly Aquarian Ascendant. Through relationships, you
you either fight for supremacy or let others take charge. learn to shine your light and assert your specialness.
Jupiter You are able to motivate and teach, but you may see ♍ Virgo You might look to others to provide some real-world
others as more knowledgeable and confident than you. You grounding, finding in a relationship a practical foundation to
might be attracted to a partner from a different culture. counterbalance the poetry and daydreams of Pisces rising.
Saturn A serious approach to partnership is suggested, ♎ Libra The assertive front of Aries rising is challenged by
committed through good times and bad. You might choose an situations where you must learn to compromise. Although
older partner, slowly developing your own inner authority. frustrating, relationships encourage a fair-minded approach.
Uranus You may prefer to break up with someone who ♏ Scorpio Intensity and passion are hallmarks of your
curtails your freedom. Partners may seem unpredictable, but relationships, a dimension belied by placid Taurus rising.
perhaps an assertion of your independence is at the root of it. Relating brings empowering transformation on both sides.
Neptune A longing for a perfect union is suggested here, ♐ Sagittarius Being with other people allows you to
and it might be hard for you to see people as they really are, synthesize and find meaning in the interesting information
rather than as you would like them to be. collected by your Gemini Ascendant.
Pluto Partnerships are crucibles for transformation, though ♑ Capricorn You look to partners, friends, and associates to
not without times of crisis and power struggle. But you can help provide containment and stability for the daily inflow of
become strong through it and able to empower others. feelings and impressions via your Cancer Ascendant.
Chiron You can offer compassion and acceptance to others ♒ Aquarius Relationships challenge you to develop a more
and be motivated by a desire to heal. A relationship that democratic outlook than comes naturally to Leo rising.
defies convention might suit you. Relationships must be supportive of freedom on both sides.
♓ Pisces You might use your practical skills (Virgo rising) to
selflessly assist others. With a partner, you can be transported
beyond the ordinary to a place of blissful union.
106 The Houses
8th HOUSE
INTIMACY AND SHARED POSSESSIONS
The 8th is a house where we encounter many of the darker aspects of life. Here, we
can experience loss and emotional crisis, but also deep transformation. The 8th covers
the intimacies of relationships and the complexities of shared finance.
Deep, dark, and mysterious Shared resources
Death, loss, and compromise The 8th house describes
of power are all dimensions shared money and assets,
of the 8th house, making this a potentially
challenging our sense deadly battle ground if we
of personal control. Much are not careful. The 8th is
of what belongs here is a territory of trust and
deeply private and arouses mistrust, and a house
primitive and powerful of debt and financial
emotions. obligation.
Intimate relationships Death and transformation
After the contractual Crisis and loss followed by
relationships of the regeneration tend to be
7th, the 8th house takes us experienced here. Often
into the murkier territory what we encounter in the
of emotional bonds and 8th are the suppressed
under the surface of our emotions of the past,
relationships: the power but experiences of
plays, the unspoken disempowerment can
contracts, and deeper become a place of
intimacies. enormous inner strength.
The Houses 107
PLANETS IN THIS HOUSE ZODIAC SIGNS AND THIS HOUSE
Take a look at which planets fall in your 8th house to reveal Refine the picture by considering the signs in which your
how they influence your energies and focus. A full house will 8th-house planets reside and the sign on the cusp of the 8th
point to this being a highly significant area of your life. house in your chart.
The Sun Your life purpose might be to explore deep ♈ Aries You tend to charge headlong into deep waters, acting
territories. You might do this through your work or maybe first and reflecting later. You might fall in love on an impulse
through intimate relationships that test your mettle. or take a risk on an investment without thinking it through.
The Moon You can be very sensitive to emotional ♉ Taurus Your attitude toward shared finance is safe and
undercurrents, intuitively picking up what is not being said. steady—and you have an eye for a profitable investment.
Looking after people in crisis might be a particular skill. You can contain a crisis through being sensible and grounded.
Mercury A penetrating mind might see you interested in ♊ Gemini Articulating deeper meanings might be a skill
research or in secret codes and clandestine communication. fueled by curiosity about hidden motivations. Intimacy
Superficial information is never satisfactory to you. for you might be created in the linking of minds.
Venus You might find power seductive or find you gain ♋ Cancer You might protect your private world extremely
financially through partnerships. In intimate dealings, you closely and be very in touch with emotional undercurrents—
show diplomacy, affection, and an ability to negotiate. which can make a profound impression on you.
Mars You can be decisive in a crisis, pitting your strength ♌ Leo You might have the Midas touch when it comes to
against the toughest of situations. Joint finances can be a getting a good return on your investments. Having autonomy
proving ground for developing your independent will. over joint finances is important to you.
Jupiter A buoyant attitude toward extreme situations can ♍ Virgo It might take you a while to process experiences of
allow you to survive and also support others. Faith may undergo crisis and catastrophe, but equally you can bring your critical
a crisis and transformation, renewed in a strengthened form. faculties to bear in such situations.
Saturn Intimacy may not come easily, as you might prefer ♎ Libra You like joint finances to be fair; you need to know
to keep your boundaries and stay in control. People trust everything you share with your partner is split down the
you with their money and with their deepest secrets. middle, and that the partnership itself is even-keeled.
Uranus You can shine intellectual light on to life’s mysteries, ♏ Scorpio When you fall for someone, you might fall strongly,
bringing clarity and rational discourse. It might be important giving intensely of yourself the more involved you become.
to you to maintain your distance in intimate encounters. There may be power plays with a partner over money.
Neptune Giving your all in a close relationship can bring the ♐ Sagittarius Investing in riskier ventures might be appealing
spiritual or emotional connection you seek with a partner. to you. You view an intimate relationship as an adventure and
But it can also mean making sacrifices or feeling vulnerable. a route to expansion and greater knowledge.
Pluto You have a nose for power battles and can play ♑ Capricorn You prefer not to entwine your resources with
opponents at their own game. Your survival skills might those of a partner. You might keep a similar boundary around
be tested in difficult situations or through financial losses. your heart and resist deeper commitment in relationships.
Chiron You might benefit from or practice deep forms of ♒ Aquarius A rational approach to the unexplained allows
therapy. You can understand others’ pain and reach out in you to sort what is real from what is shadow. Even in a
a spirit of compassionate healing. committed relationship, you need the clear air of distance.
♓ Pisces For you, deeper intimacies can be a route to
transcending the ordinary, lifting you into a more magical
world in the arms of a partner.
108 The Houses
9th HOUSE
QUEST AND ADVENTURE
The 9th house is our sense of what lies beyond the horizon. It invites us to travel, both
physically through long-distance journeys and mentally through higher education,
philosophy, and religious contemplation. It covers ethics and ideals, and the spirit of the law.
Quest for meaning Teaching and higher
education
The 9th house is concerned
with the exploration of In the 3rd, we learn the
unfamiliar territory, the basics via early education,
purpose of which is to reach but in the 9th, we go
for experience, wisdom, and beyond facts and analysis
greater understanding—of into meaning and synthesis.
ourselves and the world Our planets here suggest
around us. how we deal with
this more complex level
of learning.
Philosophy, religion, Adventure, travel,
and belief and long journeys
Here, we seek answers The 9th suggests long
to life’s bigger questions— journeys. What you
philosophy, politics, and law consider to be a “long
all belong in the 9th, along journey” will depend on
with religion, faith, and your perspective—it is not
belief. This is a house of the mileage that counts,
moral principles and political but your sense of something
ideals, the ethics and codes over the hills and far away.
by which we live.
The Houses 109
PLANETS IN THIS HOUSE ZODIAC SIGNS AND THIS HOUSE
Take a look at which planets fall in your 9th house to reveal Refine the picture by considering the signs in which your
how they influence your energies and focus. A full house will 9th-house planets reside and the sign on the cusp of the 9th
point to this being a highly significant area of your life. house in your chart.
The Sun Through travel or education, you can grow in ♈ Aries You do not like to be held back in exploration and
stature and confidence. To truly find yourself, you might adventure, whatever the nature of these. You might prefer
need to move beyond the familiar territory of home. to travel solo and go to places that few have visited.
The Moon The whole world can be your home. Perhaps you ♉ Taurus Luxury travel might suit you, or at least a journey
have lived abroad (or would like to) or simply feel nurtured by where creature comforts are taken care of. A patient approach
travel and arrival at exotic destinations. to learning brings rich rewards.
Mercury This suggests a gift for languages, as well as ♊ Gemini Curiosity might be your main reason for study or
curiosity for further study. Full of questions, you are no doubt travel. You tend to analyze complex concepts so they can
interested in a wide range of subjects—a perennial student. be articulated in clear and simple terms.
Venus Perhaps your purpose for study or travel is to evoke ♋ Cancer The rhythms and rituals of foreign cultures might be
your sense of beauty or develop artistic skills. Friends and of interest. You take an intuitive approach to higher education,
lovers from other cultures might bring this alive in you, too. studying what you feel emotionally connected to.
Mars You can be an intrepid pioneer into the unknown, ♌ Leo You prefer to travel in style, and your motivation might
carving a path for others to follow. Tough journeys test be to stimulate personal growth. Taking a risk beyond familiar
your strength and resolve, making you fearless. territory strengthens your sense of identity.
Jupiter Faith may come easily, and you approach the ♍ Virgo You deal with the unknown by checking the details
unknown with trust. Higher learning is expansive and joyful, and taking a map, a compass, and a contingency plan. You
and your capacity to teach or broadcast is equally bountiful. can be excellent at analyzing complex ideas.
Saturn “Fear of flying” might describe not just your approach ♎ Libra Equality and civil relationships might be the basis of a
to air travel but also to unfamiliar situations. Faith may be moral code for you, a principle held high. Subjects of further
hard-won, and you like to be well-prepared for the journey. study might be social sciences, art, fashion, or design.
Uranus Going to college or grappling with religious principles ♏ Scorpio You might engage deeply with philosophical
can bring enlightenment, but you might also be inclined to questions or with further training or study, not content until
question, rejecting orthodoxy and tradition. you have uncovered the last word on the matter at hand.
Neptune The 9th is a house of prophecy—Neptune here ♐ Sagittarius The world might seem an open place to you,
suggests a gift for spiritual vision or for intuiting future with no borders or restrictions to limit your scope. Called to
trends. Travel might invoke a longing for an island paradise. adventure, you want to experience it all.
Pluto A few with Pluto here might be reaching for global ♑ Capricorn You might take a practical and businesslike
domination. Most might simply seek to be transformed by approach to learning and teaching, perhaps excelling as a
learning—or perhaps by faith. professional trainer, with an interest in gaining qualifications.
Chiron You take your own path through the moral maze, ♒ Aquarius Moral principles for you might revolve around
seeking a deeper wisdom. You can be a true teacher leading supporting what is best for the community rather than the
others to their own form of understanding. individual. Faith is approached rationally and intellectually.
♓ Pisces You long for escape into the wild blue yonder, perhaps
not knowing what your destination is going to be but lured by
the siren call of faraway lands that inspire your imagination.
110 The Houses
10th HOUSE
CAREER AND VOCATION
The 10th house is a place of culmination and fruition. It describes our public image,
shaping what we do for a living and our role in the wider world. Here, we reach for
achievement and success, and toward a true calling.
Career and vocation Parents and authority
The 10th house represents The 10th represents
the idea of culmination—a authority figures,
high point to be reached. It particularly our parents.
describes career and is How you yourself
where we reach for success govern—how you take
and achievement. It is also charge and find leadership
a place of inner vocation. skills within—will also be
shown, perhaps based on
how your parents did this.
Ambition and status Public image
In the 10th, we seek credit The 10th is our public face,
for our achievements and what we are famous for.
want to flourish—to flower The profession we choose
and come into our own. invites us to profess what
So it plays to the notion matters to us. Thus in the
of growing up, achieving 10th, we seek work that is a
through work, and taking happy marriage of worldly
our place in the world. ambition and inner calling.
The Houses 111
PLANETS IN THIS HOUSE ZODIAC SIGNS AND THIS HOUSE
Take a look at which planets fall in your 10th house to reveal Refine the picture by considering the signs in which your
how they influence your energies and focus. A full house will 10th-house planets reside and the sign on the cusp of the 10th
point to this being a highly significant area of your life. house in your chart.
The Sun You identify strongly with the work you do, making ♈ Aries You might be a self-starter when it comes to your
it important to choose a vocation that allows you to take a career path, eager to show what you can do and get ahead of
central or dominant role. the pack. In your work, you prefer to lead the way.
The Moon You lead through a caring touch. Perhaps being a ♉ Taurus A long, slow climb might characterize your choice
parent is your vocation—or your work involves fostering, of employment, with a practical, down-to-earth element.
catering, or a domestic element. You might tenaciously stay in one job or field for a long time.
Mercury Your career might revolve around communication ♊ Gemini Your career path might have two distinct strands,
and networking; developing these skills gives you a sense of and it is the variety and cross-fertilization that feeds your
achievement. You admire articulate and clever people. ambition. You strive to be seen as articulate and intelligent.
Venus People might recognize you for your diplomatic skills ♋ Cancer A job involving nurturing and caretaking might suit
and ability to lead by bringing the team together. You always you, where you can be part of a professional family. You rise
pay attention to how you look. to the top by using intuition and instinct.
Mars You might choose a competitive profession where drive ♌ Leo Public image is important, and you show a regal face to
and ambition are required. You prefer to assert yourself as the the world. Perhaps you believe in principles of self-promotion
boss, rather than take orders from someone else. and self-reliance in making your way.
Jupiter For you to feel content, your career needs to offer ♍ Virgo A type of work revolving around the development
possibilities of betterment and promotion. Your parents might of craft and precision might appeal: making things, creating
have encouraged you to aim high. order, or sorting wheat from chaff.
Saturn Your style of leadership might be to shoulder a lot of ♎ Libra A certain amount of PR or bridge-building might be
responsibility by yourself. Although it might be lonely at the involved in your choice of profession—and you aspire to
top, this can bring you a sense of solid achievement. be seen as someone who deals fairly and takes no sides.
Uranus Bowing to authority is not your style, and you may ♏ Scorpio Grit and determination characterize your
choose work that encourages your independent vision and professional path, perhaps following your parents’ example.
allows you to change track when it suits you. You might choose work requiring passion and commitment.
Neptune A career in the arts might appeal, or something ♐ Sagittarius The world is a place where you can achieve
that allows you to use and develop your imagination and put exponentially, limited only by your own vision. There might
your imaginative gifts on display to the world. be an international or educational dimension to your work.
Pluto Others might see you as carrying great influence, ♑ Capricorn Administration, organization, and good planning
although inside it may take you a while to feel comfortable are all skills that can be coaxed out by your world of work. You
taking on that mantle of power. prefer a traditional career with professional training.
Chiron A career in healing or mentoring might be your goal. ♒ Aquarius You would choose not to work alone, but in a team
Although you may only find your true niche after time spent of like-minded people who share a common goal. Your style of
in the “wilderness,” it can unfold as a true vocation. management is friendly, democratic, and inclusive.
♓ Pisces You might want to be known for being compassionate
or for your artistic skills. It may take you a while to find your
vocation if you have no clear sense of what you want.
112 The Houses
11th HOUSE
FRIENDSHIP AND COMMUNITY
The 11th house is where we find our place within the wider group, through
friendships and social networks of all kinds. Your planets here suggest the
unique role you play as a member of the team.
Friends and allies Teamwork
If the 5th is the house Aside from our social circle,
of play, the 11th is the the 11th suggests all kinds
playground, where we share of group endeavors—
space and time with others councils, committees, and
and create a social circle of clubs—and therefore our
friends and acquaintances. mode of participating in
Here, we find our allies and and contributing to
supporters, those whose something larger than
actions benefit us. our individual concerns.
Hopes and wishes Common goals
The 11th reflects our hopes The 11th says a good deal
for the future and the about our political views
extent to which we believe and social ideals—our view
life will buoy and support of utopia and how society
us. It shapes our attitude should be. The extent to
toward making plans and which we are prepared to
the strategies we can lay aside personal glory
usefully employ to bring for the good of the group
them to fruition. is revealed here.
The Houses 113
PLANETS IN THIS HOUSE ZODIAC SIGNS AND THIS HOUSE
Take a look at which planets fall in your 11th house to reveal Refine the picture by considering the signs in which your
how they influence your energies and focus. A full house will 11th-house planets reside and the sign on the cusp of the 11th
point to this being a highly significant area of your life. house in your chart.
The Sun You may have a life at the heart of the community. ♈ Aries You might lean toward independent action when it
You define yourself through your friendships and shine comes to groups and friends. You can be a social pioneer, lead
brightest when your actions have collective significance. the group, or feel energized by a hectic social life.
The Moon You might be naturally gregarious, thriving on ♉ Taurus You tend to look for loyalty from friends and return it
mutual support. Your role in the group may revolve around in good measure. Your approach to friendship will emphasize
nurturing and protection. constancy and longevity.
Mercury In a social environment, you may have excellent ♊ Gemini Friendships ideally involve verbal exchange and
networking skills and a need to be mobile. Knowing who’s diversity. Gemini here suggests a need for networking and a
who can assist you in making the most of opportunities. varied social schedule.
Venus You perhaps find a way to fit in with the crowd ♋ Cancer For you, friends might feel like family—you gravitate
through diplomacy and polite exchange. You can get toward the safety of the tribe. Your ideals might reflect this as
allies on board by using charm, tact, and grace. a belief that society should provide support and nurturing.
Mars Your competitive spirit is likely to be stimulated in ♌ Leo This house provides an arena for you to shine your light.
group and social situations. Mars here is also a warrior for You might take charge of the group in regal fashion or be
the community, perhaps fighting for social or political causes. socially generous with your time and attention.
Jupiter Where Jupiter is, things often feel effortless. Getting ♍ Virgo Your instinct might be to focus on the general welfare
along in the group will be facilitated by this planet’s capacity of the group; for you, it would be less important to stand out
for broad-minded tolerance and love of jovial company. from the crowd than to play a useful role in the group.
Saturn The image of fruit ripening over time is evoked by ♎ Libra This sign brings a sense of fairness and harmony to
Saturn. In this house, it can suggest a serious commitment joint ventures, so you might find yourself playing the role of
to friendship—less in number, but standing the tests of time. mediator between friends.
Uranus This placement offers a paradox: how to maintain ♏ Scorpio Friendship is unlikely to be a frivolous endeavor for
your freedom and autonomy within a democratic context. you, with Scorpio lending depth and intensity to any planets
You could play the role of agitator, bringing radical change. here. Force and passion may characterize your friendships.
Neptune You might believe in the motto that we are “all ♐ Sagittarius You could have the capacity to lead the group
members, one of another” and be prepared to sacrifice on a shared adventure. You may find joy in participating
personal desires to serve the community. and meeting people from different cultural backgrounds.
Pluto You might form intense friendships or commit yourself ♑ Capricorn You perhaps strike a serious note and have a
unequivocally to a political ideal. Both have the capacity to tendency to take control. You might play the role of elder,
transform and empower. bringing a mature perspective to the party.
Chiron Chiron often inhibits us to reach high and yet, in the ♒ Aquarius You might take an egalitarian stance, believing it
11th, you might develop a role as a mentor and wise teacher, important that each person in the team is treated equally and
carrying out the work of healing that binds the community. any benefits distributed are for the good of all.
♓ Pisces You may deal sensitively and sympathetically with
friends. Being in a community can evoke a capacity in you for
altruistic service.
114 The Houses
12th HOUSE
SERVICE AND SACRIFICE
The 12th house suggests dissolution and release, a place outside of time where life
returns to the primal waters before the cycle of the houses begins again at the
Ascendant. Here, we can experience sacrifice, but also selflessness and devotion.
Behind the scenes Higher service
This is the house of The notion of sacrifice sits
“self-undoing,” suggesting well in this house. Meaning
we might not give ourselves simply “to make sacred,” it
full credit for our capacities, perfectly describes the idea
needing reflection back from that whatever is given in a
others in order for those spirit of universal love,
skills or traits to seem real. compassion, and charity
This is also a house of is a true gift to the world.
escape and withdrawal.
Universal and collective Transcendence
Traditional astrology places Perhaps the ultimate
many institutions meaning of the 12th house
here—hospitals, prisons, is the idea of transcendence:
religious retreats. In such leaving the wheel of life,
places, it is easy for the if only for a short time, in
sense of “I” to be replaced order to be in a timeless
by a merging with everyone state of bliss, tranquility,
else. Planets here take on and reconnection with
an otherworldly quality. everything-that-is.
The Houses 115
PLANETS IN THIS HOUSE ZODIAC SIGNS AND THIS HOUSE
Take a look at which planets fall in your 12th house to reveal Refine the picture by considering the signs in which your
how they influence your energies and focus. A full house will 12th-house planets reside and the sign on the cusp of the 12th
point to this being a highly significant area of your life. house in your chart.
The Sun Your identity and purpose can emerge from a life ♈ Aries Involvement in charitable works can evoke the fighting
dedicated to service. You may shine as a performer or actor, spirit in you, and you might lead the crusade, bringing
easily shifting into character. initiative and focused energy to it.
The Moon Care work might appeal. Focusing your ♉ Taurus Getting away from it all might involve relaxing in
compassionate efforts in this way can be more fruitful than comfort—time spent in the garden or walking in the country.
trying to care for the whole world. The natural world brings a sense of relief and release.
Mercury You might be curious about the spiritual or ♊ Gemini You can provide a bridge across to the world of the
intangible dimensions of life, including myths and symbols. imagination using the gifts of the concrete mind to enquire
Imaginative storytelling allows your voice to be heard. into and articulate its complexities.
Venus The perfect lover probably does not exist—but hold ♋ Cancer Your role behind the scenes might be as a nurse or
the image in your head, and you might then recognize it as a caretaker, looking after those who are unable to look after
projection of your own beauty or gifts. themselves. The perfect sanctuary might be your own home.
Mars On your own, you might feel as though your efforts do ♌ Leo You might feel your brilliance has been overlooked—but
not hit home—yet you can fight effectively and courageously you can impress with your creative or performance skills,
on behalf of those who are weaker or less fortunate. gaining confidence from the adulation of the crowd.
Jupiter Bliss might be the perfect trip abroad or time spent ♍ Virgo You might serve through small, practical acts—
celebrating in jovial company. For as much as you give metaphorically arranging the church flowers or sweeping
generously, you might also feel blessings magically arrive. the path. Such acts are made in a spirit of universal love.
Saturn Remembering you are not responsible for the world’s ♎ Libra Getting away from it all can revive a sense of balance
suffering can help you to focus your dedication on truly in you—perhaps a yoga retreat or time spent restoring the
worthy causes. You have a gift for bringing order to chaos. harmony and peacefulness of your chosen sanctuary.
Uranus Perhaps you hide your unconventionality so you ♏ Scorpio Although suspicious of what might be hidden from
can fit in—reclaiming this can help set you free. Your radar for view, equally you can have a strong intuition for it. Research
collective trends can put you ahead of your time. into mysteries or the mystical might be of interest.
Neptune Perhaps you give everything to the cause, leaving ♐ Sagittarius You are a traveler into the unknown, a spiritual
nothing for yourself—but you can be a beacon of compassion seeker perhaps. Blissful escape for you means getting as far
in a troubled world. away as possible.
Pluto If you do not accept your own power (or feelings of ♑ Capricorn You can bring structure and purpose to the
powerlessness), you can undermine your efforts. You have imaginal world, perhaps through work in an artistic field.
the capacity to probe the psychology of the collective mind. Equally, you might distrust whatever you cannot see or prove.
Chiron This suggests a desire to heal the collective and ♒ Aquarius You might seek a scientific explanation for life’s
show compassion to all. Perhaps you have had to conceal your more mysterious dimensions. Being with friends can be your
own suffering, making you sensitive to others’ hidden pain. escape—or walking to blow cobwebs away.
♓ Pisces You can be sensitive to feelings and atmospheres; it
might be important to lay down a boundary so you are not
overwhelmed by the grief or sadness you pick up in others.
CHAPTER
5
YOUR
BIRTH CHART
118 Your Birth Chart
YOUR BIRTH CHART
AN OVERVIEW
SEEING THE WHOLE PICTURE
Your birth chart is a never-to-be-repeated arrangement of planets, signs, angles, houses,
and aspects. Most importantly, your own free will and the many possible interpretations
of the symbols means your life path is an expression of you as an individual spirit.
You are unique! minutes in the birth time can mean a instructive to switch your perspective
A birth chart is a view of the heavens planet changes house or the angles and play with the symbolism: for instance,
for a precise time, date, and location. move into the next zodiac sign. Saturn can evoke fear but is also an
At any given moment, each planet invitation to focus and professionalize;
occupies a particular place in the zodiac, What your birth chart says about you Neptune can indicate loss of structure
and these placements, by degree and A birth chart offers a great deal of but equally a release of imagination;
minute of the sign, are exactly the same information. It reveals character and the Moon can carry difficult emotional
for anyone (or anything) born at that temperament, motivations and desires, memories but also shows how we might
moment, anywhere on Earth. But if we potential skills and talents. It looks back offer ourselves supportive self-care.
take the charts of two people born at into the past in suggesting the ancestral
the same time and date but in different themes that have made their impact on Keep an open mind
locations, the angles and the house you and forward into the future in Try to be flexible and imaginative
cusps would be different in each chart. suggesting what you might strive to in your thinking around any chart,
Each would offer a different version create and achieve for yourself. including your own. While being honest
of that same arrangement of planets about the challenges, take time to honor
in the sky. Interpreting symbols the talents and skills that are present or
Each symbol in the chart has many that could be developed. Aim to
Move forward in time and the picture different meanings, operating at all articulate what you see in a way that is
changes again—the planets move on, different levels of life experience. open and exploratory. Each chart offers
and so do the angles and house cusps. Whenever you identify something in a sense of a life unfolding, so there is
your chart that seems to pose an issue or never a final word on anything, only
In other words, your chart is singular that you feel negative about, it can be more potentials to explore.
and shared by no one else. In the charts
of twins, even a difference of a few
Your Birth Chart: An Overview 119
Planets MC Zodiac signs
Astrology recognizes 10 planets, including the Where the zodiac intersects with Each planet and point in the
Sun, Moon, and Pluto. Chiron can also be included. the meridian above the horizon. It chart occupies one of the
symbolizes career and achievement. 12 zodiac signs.
Each represents a particular human drive.
Mc Nodes
Aspects Where the paths of the Sun and
Angular relationships between Moon cross in space. Symbolizes fated
planets and other points in the meetings and experiences and the
balancing of past and future.
chart. They create the chart’s
inner dynamics. ☊
☋
Ac Dc
Ascendant Descendant
Where the zodiac Where the zodiac
intersects with the Ic intersects with the
horizon in the east. It horizon in the west,
symbolizes birth and IC exactly opposite the
new beginnings. Where the zodiac intersects with Ascendant. It symbolizes
the meridian below the horizon. It
Houses symbolizes home, roots, and family. relationships.
The 12 sections of the
chart, each representing a Birth chart basics
particular territory or area Here, we can see the symbols,
angles, houses, and aspects to
of life experience. look out for in your own chart.
120 Your Birth Chart
THE ASCENDANT-
DESCENDANT 11th
YOUR EAST-WEST AXIS AC 12th
The Ascendant and Descendant represent the 1st
horizon. They form an axis across the chart, linking
our conscious sense of ourselves (the Ascendant) 2nd
with its opposite and complementary energy
(the Descendant), which we seek and encounter The Ascendant-Descendant axis
through our relationships. Here, we see how the Ascendant-Descendant axis
cuts through the chart from east to west, from
The Ascendant Ascendant the cusp of the 1st house to the cusp of the 7th.
The Ascendant or rising sign (more The Ascendant sets the pattern for
specifically, the rising degree) is symbolic aspects shows a range of experiences
of the birth moment, your entry into the all new beginnings and provides and skills, the development of which
world. It shows the conditions and important clues about our outlook directly serves the unfolding story of
circumstances around you at that time, on life. The planet that rules your your chart (in particular, the central
or at least how you sensed them to be. Ascendant sign is your chart ruler. story of your Sun). Being the planetary
ruler of the 1st house, your chart ruler
New beginnings our aura, the atmosphere we create. gives you further information about
This imprints itself and sets the pattern We might think in terms of “persona,” everything the Ascendant describes.
for all new beginnings—starting a new too—a mask we wear or the way we
day, a new project, or a new phase of dress and present ourselves. As the The Descendant
life; how you meet and greet and come cusp or beginning of the 1st house, it This is the point exactly opposite the
across to others; how you answer is part of our store window, or what is Ascendant, immediately implying an
when someone engages you; how you most on display.
want others to see you and how they
do see you; and your sense of how Everything we experience is filtered
things are out there in the world and through the Ascendant, so it gives us
how you adjust to it. important clues about our basic outlook
on life.
Persona
We can think of the Ascendant sign and The chart ruler
any planets close to the Ascendant as This is the planetary ruler of the
Ascendant sign and plays a key role.
Your chart ruler is like the helmsman,
and its position by sign, house, and
Mc (Medium Coeli) The Ascendant-Descendant 121
Mc
KEY
9th
Circle of birth chart
Ascendant
Descendant
10th
8th 7th DC
5th 6th
3rd 4th Descendant
Exactly opposite the
Ic Ascendant, the Descendant
Ic (Imum Coeli) implies an opposing but
complementary energy.
opposing but complementary energy often be attracted to other people relationships as a learning curve,
via an opposing pair of signs. The because they reflect the qualities of pivoting on opposition, difference,
two ends of the axis are linked as one your Descendant sign and planets and the courage to recognize that the
horizon stretching from east to west close to this point (and planets in the traits we thought belonged to “those
across the chart. 7th house). people out there” really belong to us
or are ones we need to develop. It can
"Not me" Relationships therefore describe characteristics that
If the Ascendant is “me,” then the The Descendant is the part of you we both dislike and admire in others.
Descendant is “not me,” a set of traits that interfaces with others directly In the thrust and parry of relationship,
and behavior patterns we do not in one-to-one encounters of personal we slowly develop the skills and
associate with ourselves, figuring they and professional partnership. The qualities of our Descendant sign
must belong to someone else. You will Descendant and the 7th describe and planets.
122 Your Birth Chart
THE MC-IC 11th
12th
YOUR NORTH-SOUTH AXIS Ac
1st
This axis connects the IC, representing home, ancestry,
and private space, to the MC or Midheaven, representing
our vocation, ambitions, and highest aspirations. It is
like a tree, whose roots form our foundations at the IC
and whose crown flourishes at the MC.
The observer’s meridian Ascendant 2nd
At the time and place of your birth,
if you could have drawn a line linking close to it, we find qualities for which The MC-IC axis
the north and south points of the we want to be known, admired, and Here, we see how the MC-IC axis cuts through
horizon with the points directly above respected, along with activities that the chart from south to north, from the cusp
and below you on the celestial sphere, can bring us honor and recognition. of the 10th house to the cusp of the 4th.
you would arrive at the concept of We may of course become notorious
the observer’s meridian. Where this for these things, too; either way, it is a The IC
meridian intersects with the ecliptic place that indicates our public profile. The tree image is a useful one for
(and therefore the zodiac) are the this axis. The IC (which begins the 4th
points in your chart known as the As the cusp of the 10th house, the house in the Placidus house system)
Midheaven or MC (Medium Coeli) MC traditionally represents mother. forms the roots, so we can think of this
and the IC (Imum Coeli). We might extend this to say it point as representing a very deep part
represents both of our parents in their of ourselves, connected to the family,
The MC role as authority figures who have had to previous generations, and to the past.
Being above the horizon and the place a hand in socializing us and shaping It forms our foundation stone in terms
the Sun reaches around noon each day, our future. If you have children of your of our early family life, the home and
the MC represents a point of fruition own, then the MC (and the 10th) can family we create for ourselves, our
and culmination. It is our occupation suggest what it feels like for you to carry
and also our calling or vocation, what the responsibility of being a parent.
we aspire to achieve out in the world
(which may be different to the actual
job we do for a living).
In the sign on the MC and any planets
MC (Medium Coeli) The MC-IC 123
Above the horizon, the MC represents aspiration
and achievement. It is a point of fruition or KEY
culmination and talks of career or vocation.
Circle of birth chart
Mc MC (Medium Coeli)
IC (Imum Coeli)
9th
10th
8th
7th
Dc
6th
5th
3rd 4th Descendant
Ic
IC (Imum Coeli)
At the start of the 4th house, the IC represents our
roots, our deepest connections, and our private space.
deepest principle of what matters In the sign on the MC and any planets close
to us, and our sense of being on firm to it, we find qualities for which we want to
ground (or not, depending on the sign be known, admired, and respected.
of the IC and any planets close to it).
As the cusp of the 4th house,
the IC traditionally represents father.
Like the MC, we might extend that
to say that it represents both of our
parents in their role as conduits of
the family lineage and tradition.
124 Your Birth Chart
THE
MOON’S NODES
BALANCING PAST AND FUTURE
The Nodes are the two crossing points of the paths of Sun and
Moon. These points form an opposition across the sky, North Node
on one side and South Node on the other. Myth associates them
with the head and tail of a cosmic dragon.
The Nodes in your birth chart and to move beyond patterns that no Moon at its
The Nodes form an axis; there is longer serve us. Here, we can reclaim lowest point
therefore an inherent tension between an inheritance of unassailable skills
the two ends but also complementarity and talents, make our peace with the An astronomical view of The Moon's Nodes
and a sense of it working as one ancestors, and lay old ghosts to rest. Here, we see the path of the Sun, the Moon's orbit,
integrated dynamic. and the line of the Nodes. When the Sun and Moon
North Node Represents a path to simultaneously occupy the Nodes, solar and lunar
South Node A set of habitual patterns tread and a future to be made. Unlike eclipses occur.
that we readily fall into, often because the South Node, this is unfamiliar
they were laid down in early life and territory. This end of the axis challenges
have been reinforced through endless the ingrained assumptions and patterns
repetition. This can be the basis of a of the South Node. The Nodes work
useful set of skills that we may take for as an axis and are of equal value—
granted in ourselves but that we can we oscillate back and forth between
always rely on. Equally though, it can the ends. The Nodes represent cycles
describe negative, even destructive, of crisis, re-evaluation, release, and
patterns that embed themselves and then forward motion, a pattern that
to which we return because they are continues throughout life in rhythm
familiar. At the South Node, we are with the 18.6-year cycle of the Nodes
invited to engage in self-reflection around the chart.
South or Descending Node The Nodal Axis The Moon's Nodes 125
(cauda draconis—the tail of the dragon )
Moon at its
☋ highest point
The Sun's path (the ecliptic) The Moon's path
☊
North or Ascending Node
(caput draconis—the head of the dragon)
The Nodes represent cycles of crisis, re-evaluation,
release, and then forward motion, a pattern that
continues throughout life.
126 Your Birth Chart
THE WHEEL
OF RULERSHIP
PLANETARY RULERSHIP
OF THE ZODIAC SIGNS
Each sign is ruled by the planet (or planets) with which it has the most PISCES
affinity. Traditional astrology uses only the seven “traditional” planets,
from the Sun through Saturn; contemporary astrology adds Uranus,
Neptune, and Pluto into the rulership scheme.
Using rulership in your birth chart The planetary ruler of that sign will ARIES
Everything in a chart occupies a zodiac then give us further information about
sign. Each of your planets occupies a how that planet, angle, or house cusp Planetary rulership
particular sign, and so will the four expresses itself. For instance, for a Here, we can see which sign(s) each
angles (the Ascendant, the Descendant, person with the Sun in Capricorn, of the planets rules. The Sun rules
the MC, and the IC) and the other house Saturn (the ruler of Capricorn) gives Leo and the Moon rules Cancer; then
cusps, along with the Nodal Axis and further information about what shapes each traditional planet rules the next
any other chart factors that an astrologer that person’s sense of identity and their two signs, working outward toward
might use. goals in life. We can then look to Saturn’s Saturn. There is no established
position in their chart—if it is in the 7th rulership for Chiron.
The zodiac sign occupied by a planet house, for example, then committed
or angle will give us information about (Saturn) relationships (7th) will be at the
the style in which that planet or angle heart of this person’s life journey (Sun).
expresses itself. The sign occupied by Or if you have Virgo on your 11th-house
a house cusp (in other words, the cusp, your friendships will be shaped
beginning point of a house) indicates both by Virgo and by its planetary ruler
how you approach the issues and Mercury, including Mercury’s position
activities of that house. So the sign in your chart.
modifies anything that is placed in it.
Everything in a chart occupies a zodiac sign.
Each of your planets occupies a particular sign.
The Wheel of Rulership 127
CAPRICORN SAGITTARIUS
RIUS Saturn Jupiter SCO
AQUA urn Ma RPIO
Sat rs
Jupiter nus Plu LIBRA
Neptune to
Venus
Ura
Mars Mercury VIRGO
Ve nus Sun
TAU RUS O
Mercury The
The Moon
GEMINI LE
CANCER
"…THE CHART IS A
KIND OF TREASURE
MAP, AND THE REAL
SEARCH IS AN
INTERNAL ONE."
Kim Farley, Journey Through Astrology:
Charting the Astrological Voyage of Discovery
130 Your Birth Chart
THE ASPECTS
DYNAMIC CONNECTIONS IN THE CHART
Aspects are connections between the planets in a birth chart or between planets and the angles
or the Nodal Axis. They create dynamic movement that reflects inner psychological patterns.
Aspects and number symbolism An aspect shows an KEY
Aspects are based on number symbolism. angular relationship
Each is formed from a root number by between two planets The Conjunction
which the circle of the chart is divided or points around the The Opposition
to create an angular relationship. wheel of the chart. The Quincunx
Sesquiquadrate
Most astrologers use the basic set of Major and minor aspects The Trine
aspects listed here. Those based on 1, 2, 3, This wheel depicts all the major aspects and the The Square
4, and 6 are called “major aspects”; they most common minor aspects that can be found in a The Sextile
form the main dynamics of a chart. Those chart. See right for an explanation of these. The Semisquare
based on 8 and 12 are classed as “minor The Semisextile
aspects,” although they still have influence.
The opposition and square are “hard
aspects.” The semisquare, sesquiquadrate,
semisextile, and quincunx are also hard in
nature. These are based on numbers that
reflect tension and friction. The trine and
the sextile are “soft aspects,” being based
around the number 3, representing
harmonious flow.
Each aspect has an “orb,” meaning that it
holds true for a certain number of degrees
on either side of exactitude. The tighter the
orb, the more intensely we feel it, a bit like
a photograph: at one point, the image will
be pin-sharp (exactitude), with its effect
lessening as the image goes out of focus.
Astrologers disagree on orbs, but the
ones in the tables to the right are a good
place to start. Major aspects have a larger
orb than minor aspects.
The Aspects 131
MAJOR ASPECTS MINOR ASPECTS
The Conjunction
☌Root 1 Symbol Angle 0° Orb 8°
Planets in conjunction form a unity.
They are inseparable from each other,
blending their energies into a kind of
“third force.”
The Opposition The Semisquare
☍Root 2 Symbol Angle 180° Orb 8° Root 8 Symbol Angle 45° Orb 2°
Planets in opposition reflect an internal The Sesquiquadrate
dilemma arising from conflicting needs.
We might identify with one side and project •Root 8 Symbol Angle 135° Orb 2°
the other, unconsciously playing out the
conflict in our relationships. These carry a similar quality to the
square, although without the same
The Trine intensity. Like the square, we want
our efforts to produce concrete
△Root 3 Symbol Angle 120° Orb 8° results, and we set ourselves goals
and targets.
The trine creates an easy flow between planets.
They represent reservoirs of talent and things The Semisextile
we find easy and enjoyable. However, we may
take these talents for granted and not develop •Root 12 Symbol Angle 30° Orb 2°
their deeper capacities.
The Quincunx
The Square
•Root 12 Symbol Angle 150° Orb 2°
□Root 4 Symbol Angle 90° Orb 8°
These aspects can generate
Planets in square tend to be very productive. frustration, making us feel
The expression “squaring up to a challenge” is thwarted in our efforts. They can
appropriate. Here, we can be inhibited to express be a blind spot, a desire or set of
our drives fully, but equally we strive to hone skills that needs our conscious
and perfect our skills. focus in order to achieve or fulfill.
The Sextile
*Root 6 Symbol Angle 60° Orb 4°
With sextiles, we are motivated to put in a little
work, but also feel relaxed about expressing
whatever is indicated by them. We tend to enjoy
the busy creativity of the planetary combination.
132 Your Birth Chart
ASPECT PATTERNS
DYNAMIC FORMS IN THE CHART
Astrology recognizes a number of patterns
formed from particular combinations of
aspects. Each pattern represents a
complex psychological dynamic, a
source of tremendous talent and
potential but also its own
inherent challenges.
Planetary connections
Aspect patterns are combinations of three or more
planets which together create an inherent pattern
of behaviour within you.
KEY
The T-square (or T-cross)
The Grand Cross
The Kite
The Grand Trine
The Minor Grand Trine
The Hard Rectangle
The Mystic Rectangle
The Finger of the World
The Yod
Planet 1 THE STELLIUM
Planet 2
Planet 3 Not strictly an aspect pattern, this is a conjunction of at least three
planets occupying the same sign or house. It creates a concentrated,
even obsessive, focus on one area of life. Conjunctions have a subjective
quality, so with a multiple conjunction the person may resist challenge
from outside opinions and influences. Equally, it can represent an area
of expertise.
SQUARE PATTERNS Aspect Patterns 133
Formed from squares Apex or focal
and oppositions planet – in square
Planet in Planet in
opposition opposition
The Grand Cross The T-square (or T-cross)
Formed from two oppositions at right angles Formed from two planets in opposition, with a third in
to one another, meaning that each “leg” of the pattern square to both. The planet forming the squares is known
is also receiving two squares. It suggests a high-energy as the apex or focal planet.
dynamic, generating immense work and effort but
without the “escape route” of an apex planet. The opposition will reflect an inner tension, conflict,
or paradox and the desire to unite the two planets into
So it may seem to the owner of a Grand Cross that a common activity, talent, experience, or mode of
challenge is ever-present and life is never still, and this behaviour.
can lead either to a sense of being superhuman or a The apex planet receives two squares, meaning that
victim of one’s circumstances. With two oppositions, much of the dynamic movement takes place here. It
there will be two sets of internal paradox to resolve; drives the reconciliation and synthesis of the opposition,
with four squares, there is continual task-setting, but it can also serve to exacerbate the tension between
challenge, and expenditure of energy in the process them; it can be experienced both as a point of release and
of trying to achieve that. as an obstacle.
The Grand Cross can be either cardinal, fixed, or T-squares (unless “dissociate”) can be either cardinal,
mutable. Cardinal energy is centrifugal, making the fixed, or mutable. A cardinal T-square is driven, dynamic,
cardinal Grand Cross like a dynamo; fixed energy is and forceful; a fixed T-square is resistant and capable of
centripetal, meaning a fixed Grand Cross holds a great sustained effort; and a mutable T-square may generate
deal of internal tension which tends to explode with a tremendous restlessness and need for movement
great force under extreme pressure; and mutable energy and change.
makes the mutable Grand Cross rather like a dancer in
constant motion.
It may seem to the owner of a Grand Cross that
challenge is ever-present and life is never still.
134 Your Birth Chart Sextile Apex or focal planet
Trine Sextile
TRINE PATTERNS
Trine
Trine
Trine The Minor Grand Trine
Formed from two planets in trine, with a third apex planet
The Grand Trine forming sextiles to both. Because it receives two sextiles,
A triangular figure formed from three trines and the focal apex brings creative movement and effort as an
characterized by the trine’s easy flow. A Grand Trine outlet for the talent of the trine.
reflects a well of natural talent which seems to produce
its fruits with little effort. Consistent with the contented Sextile Apex or focal planet
enjoyment of the trine, it describes behaviours and Sextile
activities which come easily and can often be taken
for granted. Trine and
Opposition
Unless one of the “legs” is dissociate, the planets in a
Grand Trine will occupy signs of the same element – Trine Trine
fire, earth, air, or water.
The Kite
A Grand Trine in fire can bring easy confidence and Formed from a Grand Trine and a Minor Grand Trine
a sense that life will be supportive – an enjoyment together, creating a kite shape. It combines the easy
of risk or an inner sense of being special. potentials of the Grand Trine with the busy creativity
of the two sextiles and some added tension from the
A Grand Trine in earth suggests being “lucky” in opposition. There is a clear apex or focal planet which
the material world and perhaps pleasure gained galvanizes the action and provides motivation for
from making and doing things in this medium. developing the Grand Trine’s latent skills.
A Grand Trine in air brings natural skills of
communication and social interaction. There might
be wide interests, a love of reading and learning, and a
facility for language.
A Grand Trine in water suggests a deep reservoir of
sensitivity and feeling, a skill at picking up emotional
undercurrents and ability to tune in on a deeper
psychic level.
Aspect Patterns 135
RECTANGLE PATTERNS FINGER PATTERNS Apex or focal planet
Sesquiquadrate
Sextile Sesquiquadrate
Opposition Opposition
Trine Trine Square
Sextile The Finger of the World
Formed from two planets in square to each other, and
The Mystic Rectangle both making sesquiquadrates to a third planet that
Formed from two oppositions, the ends of which are acts as apex point. There is likely to be a great deal of
linked by two sextiles and two trines. Here, the two conscious work and effort generated, a development
oppositions find resolution through the confidence of the apex planet’s gifts and expressions as a funnel
and opportunities provided by the trines and sextiles. for the dynamic tension of the planets in square.
We might think of this pattern as a gift for finding
creative solutions to difficult dilemmas. Apex or focal planet
Semisquare Sesquiquadrate Quincunx Quincunx
Opposition Opposition
Sesquiquadrate Semisquare Sextile
The Hard Rectangle The Yod (Finger of Fate or Finger of God)
Formed from two oppositions, the ends of which are Formed from two planets in sextile to each other, and
linked by two semisquares and two sesquiquadrates. both making quincunxes to a third apex planet. The
The four minor hard aspects create a sense of perpetual person may struggle to bring the gifts of the sextile to
tension. There is no apex planet and therefore no outlet life, since the apex planet can feel unattainable. So it
that leads the action, generating a feeling that the work can generate feelings of waiting for something to
is never fully accomplished. happen before we can move forward.
136 Your Birth Chart
CASTING
A BIRTH CHART
TIME, DATE, AND PLACE
To calculate a chart, all you need is your time, date, and place of birth. It is possible
to cast a chart by hand using an ephemeris and a table of houses, but most
astrologers take the short cut and use astrological software.
Your time of birth birth. It is also possible that the hospital Casting your chart
Most of us know our date of birth, but may record birth times. Family records For many years until the arrival of
the more accurate you can be about and baby books are also helpful. In the astrological software, astrologers
your time of birth, the better. The MC absence of written evidence, family calculated their charts by hand. It is
and IC move through each zodiac sign in members can often be a godsend, still perfectly possible to do this and
exactly two hours and the Ascendant perhaps remembering that you were any good astrological training course
and Descendant take an average of born “around teatime” or “in the will teach you how to do it, because in
two hours through each sign, so they evening”, which gives you a starting the process you learn a great deal about
are moving relatively quickly and a point. If you have no record at all, some the nuts and bolts of a chart and how
discrepancy of even just an hour can professional astrologers will “rectify” its various components are arrived at.
change the picture of a chart quite a chart – this is a skilled process of Calculating and drawing up a chart by
significantly. matching significant dates and events hand can be a magical undertaking,
in your life to astrological significators connecting us to astrology as a
If you do not know your time of birth in order to arrive at a suggested time traditional craft. Most astrologers,
at all, it is not possible to set up the full of birth. however, use software to calculate and
horoscope. You will only be able to cast print their charts and some software
a "flat" chart in which the four angles Your place of birth producers offer a free trial version.
will be absent and also the house Regarding location, it is helpful to be
cusps, missing out a great deal of basic as accurate as possible, although if It is possible to get a copy of your
information. The Moon’s position will you were born in a rural area then the birth chart from the internet without
also be in question, since the Moon nearest town should be sufficient to use having to visit an astrologer or obtain a
moves an average of 13° 11´ through as your birth place. If you were born in software programme. There are several
the zodiac each day. a city, astrological software usually online sites that will calculate a copy
lists different city districts and suburbs, of your chart for free. Some produce
So it is worth making every effort to to create the most accurate chart. charts that can be a little difficult to
find out. The time of birth is recorded read if you are new to astrology, so
on the birth certificate in some If there is no town nearby, it is astro.com and alabe.com are good
countries but not in others, and some possible to use just the co-ordinates places to start (see pp.244-45).
countries offer a “long form” of birth for the place you were born.
certificate, which includes the time of
Casting a Birth Chart 137
THE IMPORTANCE OF TIME A DIFFERENCE OF 15 MINUTES
An accurate time of birth gives the most accurate chart. Twins will have very similar charts but often with a few
With no birth time, we cannot calculate the angles and quite significant differences. These are charts for twins
house cusps. born 15 minutes apart.
Mc Exact house cusps 12th-house Sun 11th-house Moon
Exact angles ♊ 25°♉ 55' 02° ♓ 21' Mc
♋ 11' 05°♒ 04'
23°
04° 19° 12° 06°25° 21° 44' 02° 41♒09'1°0♒26'0°4♒0'51°3♒0' 0° 13°
♊♊ ♊ ♉ ♓
23' 40' 10' 55' ♈ ♈ 14° ♑
♓
39' 10° ♓ 37' 24' 20'
31'
21° 12°
38' ♈ ♈ 22°
* 13' 05'
♌ 24° ♐
07° * ♓ 0096°°♉♉1575' ' * □□ □□□ * 13' ♐ 17° 32'
△△ 27° 15°♉ 33' △△ 49' ♐12°
15°♌ 01' □ 53' •
18°♌ 37'
04° 19°♌ 09' △ 24' ♓ 04° 04° 33' ♏ 27° 27'
••
♏ Dc
Ac ♍ 04°♍ 24' □ ♓ Dc Ac ♉ 27° ♉ 33'
24' • 10' ♓00° 24' 33' 33'
□
24° ♎ 47' □ 48' 38' 22°
* 50' ♑
♍ 04° ♒ ♊
♑ 21°
53' 20° 07° 32'
21° 47' 55' 40' 13° 13' 04' 44'
♏♏ ♐ ♌ ♌
♎ 23° 25° 12° ♋ ♎
♑ 11' 00° 05°
39' 20' 10'
04°
25° ♏ 55' ♐ Taurus 05° ♌
Ascendant 02' ♍ 21'
Ic Ic 04'
Birth chart with known time of birth Twin one
This reveals the four angles and the house Both twins have Aquarius MC, but twin one has a Taurus
positions of the planets. Ascendant, a 12th-house Sun, and an 11th-house Moon.
A “flat” chart 11th-house Sun 10th-house Moon
– no angles
06° ♓ 50' 08° Mc
00° 06' ♒ 45' 16°
♓ 14° 41♒09' 4°5♒0'812♒°0'163♒0'° 0°
10' 21° 20° 12° ♈ 23° 02° ♑
♑♑ ♐ ♓ ♓ ♓
48' 50' 40' 16° 42'
□ 23° 12° 32' 37' 31'
* ♏
47' ♈
06' 26°
♉ 0096°♉°♉1576' ' * □ □□ ♐
15°♉ 33'
△△ □□□ * 06'
02°
□ □ 47' ♎ 04° • 13'♐ 17°
49' ♐ 12°
• • Ac ♊ 02°
• △ 08' ♐ 02°
* 08' ♐ Dc
□ 02° ♊ 08'
08'
△△
21°♈ 13' * 09' 26° ♏
37' ♌
01' ♌ 19° ♊ 06'
♌ 18°
15° 06' ♎
♊10'♊40'♊23' 13'
16° ♌ 45' 16°
06° 12°19° 00° ♌
♋
House positions 08° 06° ♍ 50'
unknown 42'
08° ♌
Gemini
Ascendant Ic 45'
Birth chart with unknown time of birth Twin two
The four angles and the houses are Twin two has Gemini Ascendant, an 11th-house Sun and
missing from the chart. a 10th house Moon. Neptune has also changed houses.
138 Your Birth Chart
READING THE
WHOLE BIRTH CHART
FIRST STEPS
Before you apply your knowledge to interpreting your birth
chart, it is helpful to methodically review the role each chart
factor plays in building the whole picture of
your character and life story. Here is an Example aspect pattern
overview of what you need to consider. Look for any aspect patterns
Take notes along the way. (see step 6) such as this kite.
These will carry significant
influence in your chart.
STEP 1: FIRST IMPRESSIONS
A missing polarity, mode, or element will powerfully shape a
person’s character and motivations. We can also consider the
distribution of planets around the chart.
PERSONAL PLANETS SOCIAL PLANETS
Polarity/element/mode balance
› Use just the seven personal and social planets Mars Jupiter Saturn
(Sun through Saturn) and the Ascendant. The Sun The Moon Mercury Venus
› Distribution of planets Upper half East
The upper half is above the horizon. Having the Having the majority of planets
This reveals basic orientation majority of planets here suggests orientation in the eastern half suggests a
toward spheres of public/ toward the outside world and public life. focus on the self.
private and self/other.
For this, use all 10 planets Lower half West
plus Chiron. The lower half is below the horizon. Having the Having the majority of planets in
majority of planets here suggests a life away the western half suggests focus
from the limelight in a more private space. on relationships and collaboration.
Reading the Whole Birth Chart 139
STEP 2: THE ANGLES AND CHART RULER
The Ascendant shows your style of meeting the Take note of:
world, and its ruler (the “chart ruler”) describes a
territory that is crucial to unfolding your life story. › The Ascendant (or rising) sign.
› The Descendant sign Contrast this with the Ascendant.
The Descendant complements the Ascendant as › The chart ruler Note which sign and house it occupies and its
the axis of self and other, and the MC-IC shows the
interplay between private and public life. Interpret aspects to other planets. If Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, or
each angle separately, and then contemplate each
pair as an axis. Saturn are your chart ruler, check to see if it also rules another
house in your chart.
› The ruler of the Descendant by sign, house, and aspect.
The Ascendant The Descendant The chart ruler Descendant ruler
Which sign and house Which sign and house
Which sign sits on the Which sign sits on the western
does it occupy? does it occupy?
eastern horizon of your chart? horizon of your chart?
Repeat this for the MC-IC axis
The MC The IC The MC ruler The IC ruler
Which sign does the cusp of Which sign does the cusp Which sign and house Which sign and house
of the 4th house occupy?
the 10th house occupy? does it occupy? does it occupy?
› Planets conjunct the angles Angular planets
Conjunct within
Any planets that fall within an 8° 8° of an angle.
orb of the angles (“angular planets”)
will strongly color your experience CONTINUED
of that angle.
140 Your Birth Chart CENTRAL DRIVERS
STEP 3: THE SUN AND MOON
Along with the chart ruler, the Sun and Moon are your The Sun The Moon
central drives. Explore them by sign, house, and aspect,
and note the house that each of them rules.
STEP 4: THE PERSONAL AND SOCIAL PLANETS
Explore the remaining personal planets INNER CORE
(Mercury, Venus, and Mars) to complete the
inner core of the personality, and then the
social planets (Jupiter and Saturn) to suggest
experiences of the wider social world. Mercury Venus Mars
SOCIAL WORLDS
Jupiter Saturn
STEP 5: CHIRON AND THE OUTER PLANETS
Chiron and the outer planets are a powerful presence COLLECTIVE THEMES
if they make major aspects to personal planets or
angles. Note their sign and house position and the
aspects they make, plus the house each outer
planet rules. Chiron Uranus Neptune Pluto
STEP 6: ASPECT PATTERNS MOON'S NODES
With an overview of each planet, the aspect patterns
become easier to spot. Not all charts have one, but for a
chart that does, this will form an important dynamic. North South
STEP 7: THE MOON’S NODES
The Nodal axis often makes more sense once we
understand the rest of the chart and its themes.
Reading the Whole Birth Chart 141
IDENTIFYING THEMES IN YOUR CHART
The main work of chart interpretation is to pick out your chart’s most important
features. Here, we are looking for threads that weave together to create distinct
themes, as well as the tensions and contradictions that all charts contain.
STEP 1: IDENTIFYING THE KEY ASTROLOGICAL FACTORS
The Ascendant, choice of relationship (Descendant), of an element or mode means it can
chart ruler, Sun, home/family (IC), and vocation dominate by its absence. Heavily
and Moon These are (MC)—and a planet conjunct one of tenanted houses or an empty
the four most important factors in them brings both the planet and the hemisphere are worth noting, too.
any chart, because they define your angle into sharp focus.
self-image and worldview (Ascendant Aspects with the tightest orbs
and chart ruler), your heroic purpose Unaspected planets An unaspected These are usually felt the most keenly.
(Sun), and your inner “soul life” (Moon). planet plays a key role, too. It “Tight” is a relative term. For instance,
The houses they rule will also reflect represents an inner drive that the an orb of 1° is tight for a square if our
key areas of personal expression. person may find difficult to connect maximum orb is 8°; on the other hand,
to or feel in control of. 1° is not tight for a sesquiquadrate if
our maximum orb for these is only
Angular planets Any planet conjunct Aspect patterns Aspect patterns 2°. Tight major hard
one of the four angles (“angular reflect a complex inner pattern. aspects provide the
planets”) will play a leading role, and core material of a
we can extend its influence to the What is emphasized and what is chart—the grit in
house (or houses) that planet rules in missing Three or more planets in one the oyster.
your chart. The angles are the most element or mode will make that your
basic life areas—identity (Ascendant), dominant style; alternatively, the lack
STEP 2: IDENTIFYING THE MAIN THEMES
A theme emerges when two or At the same time, we want to think a “good” or “bad” chart; each has
three chart factors all point in a about a chart’s strengths—the main its difficult areas and its positive
similar direction—and a theme will skills and talents—as well as the potential, and indeed these can be
be strongest when it involves key challenges, tensions, and paradoxes one and the same.
chart factors from the list above. it contains. There is no such thing as
"…ASTROLOGICAL EVENTS
MAY WORK OUT QUITE
DIFFERENTLY FROM HOW
WE MIGHT IMAGINE, FEAR,
OR PREDICT THEM, BUT
THEY ALWAYS EXPRESS
THE ASTROLOGICAL
SYMBOLISM IF WE ARE
OPEN TO SEEING IT."
Richard Idemon, Through the Looking Glass:
A Search for the Self in the Mirror of Relationships
144 Your Birth Chart
CASE STUDY 1
AMANDA
Here we will see the process of chart interpretation in action, using the chart of Amanda,
a body therapist and writer. Her interests encompass theatre, psychology, spirituality, and
the mind-body link. She is politically aware and is an active environmental campaigner.
STEP 1: IDENTIFYING THE KEY ASTROLOGICAL FACTORS
Ascendant and chart Leo in the 9th. The sign is shared by The Moon is in Scorpio in the
ruler Her Scorpio everyone of Amanda’s generation, but 12th, a very private placement.
rising suggests a the 9th house is personal to her chart: Emotions will be deeply felt but kept
guarded approach she will probe deeply to find ultimate in reserve, heightening the powerful
The Ascendant and a strong intuitive (Pluto) answers to life’s bigger emotional radar. Personal needs may
& chart ruler radar, sensitive to questions (9th). not be openly articulated. The square
undercurrents and to Saturn is almost exact, making this
desiring to penetrate beyond the The Sun and Moon perhaps the chart’s most influential
surface – and with co-chart ruler Her Virgo Sun is on the aspect and continuing the theme of
Mars, this depth allows Amanda to MC, suggesting a prominent public self-containment. The conjunction
make an impact on the community role and work as a vehicle for to Jupiter adds natural positivity
(Mars in 11th) via actions that bring self-expression. Virgo suggests alongside this.
balance and equilibrium (Mars in Libra). craft and precision; she is ideally
The Mars-Chiron conjunction suited to bodywork and can feel The Moon rules the 9th, again
adds the healing element which pride in professional expertise and highlighting travel and learning;
informs Amanda’s bodywork and a connection to the physical realm. being ruled by the Moon takes that
Mars-Neptune adds artistry and world and links it to Amanda’s inner
sensitivity. Mars rules both the 5th The Sun does not rule a soul life (Moon). Much of the “travel”
and 6th houses, so a total of three house, but it rules the three may therefore be inward and of a
houses in the chart, further increasing planets in Amanda’s 9th house, so metaphysical nature.
its importance and making a strong link the determined urge towards higher
to creativity/children (5th) and to the knowledge which they represent Angular planets As well as the Sun,
world of everyday work and physical will be gathered up and elevated by Mercury is also conjunct the MC.
health (6th). the Sun via its conjunction to In addition, these two planets occupy
The other co-chart ruler Pluto is in her MC. each others’ signs, so they are linked,
Case Study 1 145
Sun in Virgo conjunct the MC Mercury in Virgo in the 9th
(apex of Minor Grand Trine)
Mc 46' ♌ Pluto in the 9th
Stellium in Libra 00° ♍ 20° ♋ Uranus in the
in the 11th 8th conjunct the
09' North Node
Mars in Libra 24° 12° 03°
in the 11th 35° 00° ♌♌
11' 32'
♎ 07° ♍ ♌
♍ 03'
27' 46'
02° 11°
21° ♊
07°
♎ • *** * 28'♊♊16° 55'
13°♎ 13' ***
35' 2230° ♎°♎21945' '9' 38'
25° ♎ 13'
♎ 03°♏ 00' □ △△△△△
25°
12° 53' ♉ 12° 12°
Ac ♏
12° ♏ 53' ♉ Dc
53' 53'
11° ♐38' 35'
♐ 16° ♈
55' 25°
Moon in 46' 35'
Scorpio in the 12th ♓
♈
00°
02°
20°♑ 09' ♓ 46'
♒ 00° Ic
Ascendant
in Scorpio
Amanda's birth chart
The 9th, 10th, and 11th are key houses, connecting
Amanda to areas of travel and philosophy, as well as
community and the need for a public role or profile.
CONTINUED
146 Your Birth Chart
reinforcing manual dexterity and Mercury) adds an image of the collective and interpersonal areas.
craft and the development of ideas “alternative healer” motivated by The eastern hemisphere is more
and communication skills as key dramatic performance (Mercury in dominant than the western—so
elements in the career. Leo in the 9th as apex planet). although the Libra planets suggest a
need for relationships, she will have
Unaspected planets None What is emphasized and what a sense of herself as being the driver.
is missing The Sun carries the earth
Aspect patterns The Libra Stellium function, so there might be an Aspects with the tightest orbs
in the 11th emphasizes this sign and emphasis for Amanda on developing Apart from the Moon-Saturn square,
house. Fairness and balance become a relationship to the physical realm Pluto tightly squares the Ascendant-
key motivations, as do relationships (earth) as a medium for self-expression Descendant axis. Perhaps there have
and social interaction, all centered (Sun), and this could be one reason for been distinct chapters in Amanda’s
around community. The enthusiasm her love of the natural world. The Sun life, punctuated by dramatic
and motivation of Mars and Jupiter, is also the only planet in a mutable sign, transformation via travel, education,
the artistry of Venus and Neptune, so she may have been challenged to or ethical questioning (Pluto in 9th).
and the “wounded healer” dimension develop flexibility, perhaps through Such changes may transform both
of Chiron combine to create a sense her work or her role as a parent (MC). her sense of identity (Ascendant)
of life as a beautiful and energetic and her relationships (Descendant).
healing dance. The southern hemisphere
contains all the planets; she is
The Minor Grand Trine (involving oriented outward toward
Uranus, Chiron, Venus, Jupiter, and
STEP 2: IDENTIFYING THE MAIN THEMES
Transformation Philosophical
and regeneration Amanda is likely to have
Amanda may undergo a philosophical way of
cycles of transformation thinking and be interested
and regeneration, in probing deeply to find
and her life may have answers to complex
distinct chapters questions. There may
separated by times of be an interest in spiritual
instability and change. and esoteric matters.
› Scorpio Ascendant, co-ruler Pluto high in the chart › Scorpio rising, co-ruler Pluto in 9th
and tightly square the Ascendant-Descendant › Saturn and Mercury also in the 9th
› Saturn in the 9th rules the 3rd
› Moon in Scorpio › Moon in Scorpio rules the 9th
› Uranus conjunct the North Node in the 8th
› Angular Mercury on the MC (and linked to the Sun) and is conjunct Jupiter in the 11th
rules the 8th house › Uranus-North Node conjunct in the 8th
› Angular Mercury on the MC rules the 8th
Case Study 1 147
Career as a healer Social and political
Amanda has made a career Amanda may have a
as a healer and healing strong social and political
gifts are well-starred in awareness, being
her chart. The idea interested in moral and
of physical “therapy” is ethical issues generally
shown, manipulating the and the idea of social fair
body to release tension play. Indeed, this may
and bring healing: underpin much of her life:
› Co-chart ruler Mars is conjunct Chiron › A packed 11th house with a Stellium in Libra,
› Co-chart ruler Mars also rules the 6th including Jupiter
› Venus (ruler of the 12th) is conjunct Chiron
› Scorpio Ascendant and Moon › Venus in Libra in the 11th rules the 11th
› Angular Mercury rules the 8th › Three planets in the 9th
› Sun in Virgo and on the MC (Sun is the only planet in earth) › Ruler of the 9th, the Moon, is conjunct Jupiter
Sensitivity Writing
Amanda’s chart suggests Writing features as a
a high degree of sensitivity potential talent. The
and a “sixth sense”, prominent Sun and
an ability to pick up Mercury suggest it is
“vibrations” and unspoken important for Amanda
communication. She is to use communication
skilled at seeing below in her work and as a means
surface appearances: of conveying her creativity:
› Ascendant in Scorpio › Mercury and Sun on the MC – they rule each other,
› Moon in Scorpio in the 12th and Mercury rules the MC
› Uranus in the 8th
› Mercury rules the 8th › North Node in Gemini, ruled by Mercury
› Saturn in the 9th rules the 3rd and tightly squares
the Moon
Relationships planets is to the eastern side. So a need for
Relationships of all kinds are likely relationship sits alongside a need for personal
to be a consistent theme, but with space and autonomy:
some tensions to deal with. Venus
in Libra (Descendant ruler) might › Stellium in Libra, including co-chart ruler
reach for a peaceful, loving, and Mars and Venus (ruler of the Descendant)
affectionate relationship, but it is
also trine independent Uranus on › Moon in Scorpio square Saturn
the North Node (“fated encounters”). › Venus trine Uranus and North Node
The Scorpio Moon square Saturn is
self-contained and the weight of in the 8th
› Eastern hemisphere is dominant
148 Your Birth Chart
CASE STUDY 2
JACK
Here, we will see the process of chart interpretation in action, using the chart of Jack, who works
as an estate agent. He is hard-working and career-minded, and would eventually like to run his
own business. He enjoys traveling and has a dream to live in the US.
STEP 1: IDENTIFYING THE KEY ASTROLOGICAL FACTORS
Ascendant and networks and social exchange, and expression, and a true sense of
chart ruler Jack’s indeed that Jack sees his ability to purpose (Sun conjunct North Node).
Ascendant is in Virgo, communicate as a key “calling card” This might be found through practical
so his initial approach (Mercury as chart ruler) that enables service of some kind (Pisces, 6th
The Ascendant to anything will favor him to express his mental creativity house). The Sun rules his 12th house,
& chart ruler efficiency, expediency, (Mercury in the 5th). Mercury in reinforcing the idea of shining in a role
and a critical eye. Aquarius inclines toward open and that is essentially behind the scenes.
With Pisces on the Descendant, he honest communication and suggests
might at times in life be challenged a facility for technology and innovation. Angular planets None
to develop a more fluid and less Mercury also rules his Gemini MC.
analytical style, a theme that might Unaspected planets None
arise in partnerships and relationships The Sun and Moon The
in particular. Sun is in the 6th house in Aspect patterns There are two
Pisces and conjunct the North Node. T-squares. Both involve the Mars-
Mercury is his chart ruler, in This might reflect a strong sense of his Pluto opposition, with the Moon at apex
Aquarius in the 5th house. There own destiny, yet also a lifetime’s of one and Venus at apex of the other.
is a sense here of enjoying information journey to find identity, creative The Mars-Pluto opposition brings
Polarity is tipped slightly toward the negative signs,
giving Jack a more introverted than extroverted expression.
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