In
astrology, the 'Signs of the Zodiac' represent twelve equal segments or divisions of the
zodiac. According to astrological theory, celestial phenomena reflect or govern human activity on the principle of "
as above, so below", so that the twelve signs at the same time are held to represent twelve basic personality types or characteristic modes of expression.
[1]
In
Western and
Indian astrology, the twelve signs are associated with constellations, while in
Chinese astrology there is no connection with constellations, as it is simply the line of the equator that is divided into twelve equal segments.
In Western and Indian astrology, the emphasis is on space, and the movement of the sun, moon and
planets in the sky through each of the zodiac signs. In Chinese astrology, by contrast, the emphasis is on time, with the zodiac operating on cycles of years, months, and hours of the day.
A common feature of all three traditions however, is the significance of the
ascendant or rising sign, namely the zodiac sign that is rising (due to the rotation of the earth) on the eastern horizon at the moment of a person's birth.
The three traditions
The three main traditions of astrology, the Western, Indian and Chinese, share the same fundamental idea of a twelve sign zodiac with the signs divided into four basic types. It is possible to match up the twelve signs across the traditions, and despite differences, a basic similarity can be seen in their characteristics. The following table shows the twelve signs and their sub-division into four categories as they correspond across the three traditions:
| Western Sign | Element | Indian Sign | Element | Chinese Sign | Trine |
|---|
| 'Aries' | Fire | 'Mesha' | Tejas (fire) | 'Dragon' (5) | 1st |
| 'Taurus' | Earth | 'Vrishabha' | Prithivi (earth) | 'Snake' (6) | 2nd |
| 'Gemini' | Air | 'Mithuna' | Vayu (air) | 'Horse' (7) | 3rd |
| 'Cancer' | Water | 'Karka' | Jala (water) | 'Sheep' (8) | 4th |
| 'Leo' | Fire | 'Simha' | Tejas (fire) | 'Monkey' (9) | 1st |
| 'Virgo' | Earth | 'Kanya' | Prithivi (earth) | 'Rooster' (10) | 2nd |
| 'Libra' | Air | 'Tula' | Vayu (air) | 'Dog' (11) | 3rd |
| 'Scorpio' | Water | 'Vrishchika' | Jala (water) | 'Pig' (12) | 4th |
| 'Sagittarius' | Fire | 'Dhanus' | Tejas (fire) | 'Rat' (1) | 1st |
| 'Capricorn' | Earth | 'Makara' | Prithivi (earth) | 'Ox' (2) | 2nd |
| 'Aquarius' | Air | 'Kumbha' | Vayu (air) | 'Tiger' (3) | 3rd |
| 'Pisces' | Water | 'Meena' | Jala (water) | 'Rabbit' (4) | 4th |
'Note: The Chinese zodiac traditionally begins with the Rat despite the appearance of the Dragon in the first place in the table, and the numbers in brackets indicate this.'
The Western and Indian traditions agree on the sub-division of signs using the four elements of
Fire,
Earth,
Air and
Water; although the Indian elements are usually known by their
Sanskrit names: ''Tejas'' (fire), ''Prithivi'' (earth), ''Vayu'' (air) and ''Jala'' (water). The Chinese tradition simply uses numbers to describe the four categories of 'trine' (meaning that there are three signs in each category). The Chinese tradition also uses elements in combination with the twelve signs, but uses a different system of five elements:
Wood, Fire, Earth,
Metal and Water. This system does not directly correspond with the Western and Indian use of elements, so it is important not to confuse them.
It is possible to match up the signs of the three traditions because each one links the twelve signs to a different month of the solar year, and these roughly coincide across all three. The Western and Indian signs differ by about a month, due to different ways of measuring the
zodiac, which has meant their divergence over time from a common origin. The Chinese ''lunar'' or month signs are based on the Chinese agricultural calender
[2] of
Solar terms and straddle the two other traditions, overlapping each one by about two weeks. This Chinese calendar is separate from the better known
sixty year cycle of years, in which each year is linked to a different zodiac sign and element.
The zodiac
Main articles: zodiac
In
Western, and (via
Indo-Greek transmission in the 2nd and 1st centuries BC)
Indian,
astrology, the
zodiac divides the ecliptic (the apparent path of the
Sun through the heavens) into twelve 'astrological signs' of equal length.
The Western
tropical astrology starts with the
first point of Aries, which is defined as the point at which the
ecliptic crosses the
celestial equator at the
spring equinox. It is important to note that the tropical zodiac signs at this stage no longer bear any relationship to the astronomical
constellations after which they were originally named, due to a phenomenon known as the
precession of the equinoxes which produces a slow change of the time of year when constellations are visible in the night sky over a 25,000 year cycle.
Western
sidereal astrology and Indian
Indian astrology use signs which more or less coincide with the stellar constellations of the same name, although this involves adjustments to allow for the precession of the equinoxes.
Star signs and sun signs
An important distinction that is often confused in
Western astrology is the one between ''star signs'' and ''sun signs''. A star sign is simply the popular name for a zodiac or astrological sign, one of the twelve signs of the
zodiac which originated from the 'stars' or
constellations of the same name. Each of the zodiac or star signs occupies a different portion of the sky as seen from the earth, which remains fixed over time (or at least changes only very slowly over the centuries).
By contrast a
Sun sign refers to the star sign or zodiac sign that the sun happens to occupy in its
annual journey around the sky (different of course from its daily rising and setting). Sun signs last about a month each, as the sun travels through each of the star signs over the course of a year. Because the
calendar is defined by the movement of the
Earth around the
Sun, and its orbit is very nearly circular, the sign in which the Sun falls on any day of the year is fairly predictable (though it will vary a little due to the effect of the extra day in leap years). In other words, it is very easy to know what any individual's sun sign is, as the only information usually needed is their birthday.
The confusion arises because people generally refer to their own sun sign as simply their 'star sign'. Also, sun signs are the basis of the
daily or weekly horoscopes that widely appear in magazines and newspapers, which usually also refer just to the 'stars' and 'star signs'.
The distinction between star signs and sun signs is important because the
moon and
planets also travel through each of the star signs, although at very different rates. For example the moon travels through the entire zodiac in a month, while
Jupiter takes about twelve years to complete the journey. To determine the sign in which the moon and other planets fall on any given day, it is necessary to consult an
ephemeris or use an
astrological computer program which will have a built-in
ephemeris. Therefore each person not only has a 'sun sign', they also have a 'moon sign', 'venus sign', 'jupiter sign' and so on. Each person also has a 'rising sign' or
ascendant, the star sign that was rising on the eastern horizon at the moment of their birth. Professional Horoscopers would say therefore, that each person does not have merely one star sign, but many star signs that need to be combined into an individual
horoscope or
natal chart if a full picture of their personality is to be discovered.
Western zodiac signs
The signs affect the energies of each planet in a characteristic way when it enters each sign (though due consideration will also be given to other conditions within the astrological chart such as the effect of
aspects to other planets, and the
house in which each planet falls). Each sign is associated with one of the
classical elements (fire, earth, air, or water) and one of the three qualities or modalities (cardinal, fixed, or mutable). It is also associated with an area of concern: personal, social, or universal.
Zodiac symbolism
Main articles: Astrological symbols
The symbols used in Western astrology to represent the astrological signs
This table shows the zodiac names in Latin with their English translation. It also shows the element and quality associated with each sign.
| 'Sign | 'English name | 'Element | 'Quality |
| Aries | The Ram | Fire | Cardinal |
| Taurus | The Bull | Earth | Fixed |
| Gemini | The Twins | Air | Mutable |
| Cancer | The Crab | Water | Cardinal |
| Leo | The Lion | Fire | Fixed |
| Virgo | The Virgin | Earth | Mutable |
| Libra | The Scales | Air | Cardinal |
| Scorpio | The Scorpion | Water | Fixed |
| Sagittarius | The Archer | Fire | Mutable |
| Capricorn | The Sea-goat | Earth | Cardinal |
| Aquarius | The Water Carrier | Air | Fixed |
| Pisces | The Fishes | Water | Mutable |
The twelve signs
The following are the characteristics of the Western Zodiac signs as understood by astrologers:
[3] Astrologers consider each of the signs to represent an ideal type. In other words, no individual shows all of the characteristics of any one sign. Rather each person is a combination of many signs, which must be assessed as a whole in that person's
horoscope or
natal chart.
★
-
Aries (''The Ram'')(cardinal, fire, personal): Keyword: "I am". The Aries person is assertive, brave, energetic, action-oriented, individualistic, independent, impulsive, competitive, eager, straightforward, forceful, headstrong, pioneering, a leader, focused on the present and freedom-loving. They can also sometimes be intemperate, violent, impatient, fiery, rash, extreme, and arrogant. Suitable occupations are where initiative and enterprise are needed, and preferably physical activity; such as soldiers, surgeons, engineers, sportspeople and explorers. In
medical astrology Aries governs the head and skull. In astrology Aries is ruled by the planet
Mars. The
sun sign dates for Aries are March 21st - April 20th.
★
-
Taurus (''The Bull'') (fixed, earth, personal): Keyword: "I have". The Taurus person is resourceful, thorough, dependable, responsible, loyal, patient, placid, stable, sensual, affectionate, comfortable, solid, earthy, strong, money-oriented, practical, productive, cautious, musical, and artistic. They can also sometimes be stubborn, indulgent, insecure, acquisitive, possessive, rigid, stodgy and slow. Suitable occupations are where perseverance, practicality and responsibility are awarded,and security is available; such as builders, farmers, bankers, civil servants, accountants and artistic pursuits, especially singing and sculpture. In
medical astrology Taurus governs the throat and neck. In astrology Taurus is ruled by the planet
Venus. The
sun sign dates for Taurus are April 21st - May 21st.
★
-
Gemini (''The Twins'')(mutable, air, personal): Keyword: "I think". The Gemini person is versatile, inquisitive, whimsical, nimble, articulate, lively, active, curious, talkative, sociable, mercurial, They can also sometimes be restless, scattered, dual or two-faced, inconstant, gullible, gossipy and superficial. Suitable occupations are; and where constant variety and/or travel are guaranteed; such as commercial traveller, writer, journalist, clerk, teacher, printing and publishing. In
medical astrology Gemini governs the hands and lungs. In astrology Gemini is ruled by the planet
Mercury. The
sun sign dates for Gemini are May 22nd - June 21st.
★
-
Cancer (''The Crab'') (cardinal, water, personal): Keyword: "I feel". The Cancer person is protective, sensitive, tenacious, retentive, resourceful, self-contained, family and home oriented, maternal, security oriented, nurturing, warm, sympathetic, patriotic, sentimental, emotional, and loving. They can also be touchy, clinging, over-protective, moody and ''crabby''. Suitable occupations are where shrewd but sensitive nature can be constructively employed, or in looking after others; such as nurses, gardeners, archaeologists, hoteliers, publicans, estate agents. In
medical astrology Cancer governs the stomach and breasts. In astrology Cancer is ruled by
the Moon. The
sun sign dates for Cancer are June 22nd - July 23rd.
★
-
Leo (''The Lion'')(fixed, fire, social): Keyword: "I will". The Leo person is creative, generous, proud, risk-taking, fun-loving, dramatic, dignified, theatrical, passionate, affectionate, ardent, ambitious, loves attention, independent, noble, a leader, sunny, bright, magnetic, kingly, powerful. They can also sometimes be bossy, patronizing, snobbish, egotistical, boastful, over self-conscious, and arrogant. Suitable occupations are where leadership and powerful self-assurance can be displayed; such as manager, director, social organizer, chairperson, acting. In
medical astrology Leo governs the heart and spine. In astrology Leo is ruled by
the Sun. The
sun sign dates for Leo are July 24th - August 23rd.
★
-
Virgo (''The Virgin'') (mutable, earth, social): Keyword: "I analyze". The Virgo person is practical, industrious, efficient, thorough, methodical, exacting, precise, detail-oriented, observant, critical, work and service oriented, painstaking, pragmatic, modest, discreet, health and cleanliness conscious, mentally active, and flexible. They can also be fussy, nervous, pedantic, petty, and over-critical. Suitable occupations are where analytical and practical, methodical qualities are needed; such as teacher, psychologist, nursing and health and hygiene sectors, scientist, accountant, secretary, inspector. In
medical astrology Virgo governs the intestines and digestion. In astrology Virgo is ruled by the planet
Mercury. The
sun sign dates for Virgo are August 24th - September 23rd.
★
-
Libra (''The Scales'') (cardinal, air, social): Keyword: "I balance". The Libra person is co-operative, diplomatic, sees both sides, open-minded, just, urbane, fair, partnership oriented, avoids conflict, refined, balanced, graceful, charming, debative, idealistic, equalitarian and sociable. They can sometimes also rationalize, be easily deterred, indecisive and lazy. Suitable occupations are where human relationships and a harmonious environment are important; such as artist, poet, diplomat, fashion and hairdressing, social worker, cosmetic industry. In
medical astrology Libra governs the kidneys and lumbar region. In astrology Libra is ruled by the planet
Venus. The
sun sign dates for Libra are September 24th - October 23rd.
★
-
Scorpio (''The Scorpion'') (fixed, water, social): Keyword: "I desire". The Scorpio person is passionate, secretive, powerful, penetrating, intense, determined, purposeful, keenly perceptive, deep, complex, analytical, inquisitive, resourceful, ambitious, magnetic, hypnotic, sexual, creative and mysterious. They can also sometimes be cunning, suspicious, compulsive, aggressive, jealous, and controlling. Suitable occupations are where the penetrating mind and determined attitude can prevail; such as research work, detective, physicist, doctor, surgeon, butcher, lawyer, the occult. In
medical astrology Scorpio governs the pelvis and reproductive organs. In astrology Scorpio is ruled by the planets
Mars and
Pluto. The
sun sign dates for Scorpio are October 24th - November 21st.
★
-
Sagittarius (''The Archer'') (mutable, fire, universal): Keyword: "I philosophize". The Sagittarius person is freedom-loving, extrovert, straightforward, benevolent, philosophic, idealistic, sincere, intellectual, knowledgeable, philosophical, broad-minded, truth-seeking and telling, just, fun-loving, athletic, adventurous, expansive, and optimistic. They can also sometimes be blundering, careless, exaggerative, know-it-all, over-indulgent, tactless and scattered. Suitable occupations are where free-ranging and versatile qualities are needed and where philosophical traits are important; such as churchman, lawyer, philosopher, interpreter, teacher, politician, explorer, also working with animals. In
medical astrology Sagittarius governs the hips and thighs. In astrology Sagittarius is ruled by the planet
Jupiter. The
sun sign dates for Sagittarius are November 22nd - December 21st.
★
-
Capricorn (''The Sea-goat'') (cardinal, earth, universal): Keyword: "I use". The Capricorn person is prudent, responsible, realistic, formal, patient, methodical, disciplined, traditional, cautious, conventional, hard-working, persevering, self-reliant, ambitious, businesslike, career-oriented, authoritative, conscientious, and competent. They can also sometimes be rigid, suspicious, status-seeking, demanding, insensitive, inhibited and saturnine. Suitable occupations are where responsible, patient and economising qualities can be exercised; such as scientist, engineer, manager, civil servant, mathematician, farmer, builder, politician, director. In
medical astrology Capricorn governs the knees and skeleton. In astrology Capricorn is ruled by the planet
Saturn. The
sun sign dates for Capricorn are December 22nd - January 20th.
★
-
Aquarius (''The Water Carrier'') (fixed, air, universal): Keyword: "I know". The Aquarius person is unconventional, detached, intellectual, objective, individualistic, inventive, tolerant, unique, rebellious, sophisticated, future-oriented, friendship-oriented, humanitarian, cause-oriented, believes in groups and society, and progressive. They can also sometimes be unpredictable, dogmatic, over-permissive, aloof, eccentric and elitist. Suitable occupations are where the progressive mental qualities can be developed, preferable in a group; such as scientist, photographer, writer, broadcastor, publisher, social worker, scientist, and the electronics, aviation, and computer industries. In
medical astrology Aquarius governs the circulatory and nervous systems and ankles. In astrology Aquarius is ruled by the planets
Saturn and
Uranus. The
sun sign dates for Aquarius are January 21st - February 19th.
★
-
Pisces (''The Fishes'')(mutable, water, universal): Keyword: "I believe". The Pisces person is compassionate, empathetic, imaginative, sensitive, mystical, spiritual, dreamy, passive, easy-going, idealistic, visionary, inspirational, accepting, undiscriminating, charitable, believes in soul growth, self-sacrificing and artistic. They can also sometimes be distracted, detached, illusory, impractical, gullible, neglectful, escapist and lazy. Suitable occupations are where compassionate and intuitive qualities are needed; such as caring for the sick, needy and animals, religious, social workers, hospitals and institutions, poets, writers, actors, psychics. In
medical astrology Pisces governs the feet and immune system. In astrology Pisces is ruled by the planets
Jupiter and
Neptune. The
sun sign dates for Pisces are February 20th - March 20th.
The four elements
Main articles: Triplicity
Four Classical Elements; this classic diagram has two squares on top of each other, with the corners of one being the classical elements, and the corners of the other being the properties
Each sign is associated with one of the
classical elements (water, fire, earth and air.)
[4] Fire and Air signs are
positive or extrovert, masculine signs; while Water and Earth signs are
negative, introvert, feminine signs.
★ '
Fire signs'--'Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius'-- Fire represents man's desires and creative energies. The Fire signs are associated with action, passion, and energy, and people with a lot of fire in their make up are confident, bright, warm, exciting, and easily take the initiative. In combination with the other elements, fire feels that earth will smother it, water will drown it, but air will fan and enliven it. It is the element of focus.
★ '
Earth signs'--'Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn'-- Earth represents man's material resources, environment and possessions. The Earth signs are associated with sensation, stability and practicality, and people with a lot of earth in their make up are solid, dependable, thorough, responsible, cautious and quiet. In combination with the other elements, earth feels that air will dissipate it, fire will parch it, but water will refresh and nourish it. It is the element of strength.
★ '
Air signs'--'Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius'-- Air represents the intellect and man's ability to reason and communicate. The Air signs are associated with thought, perspective and communication, and people with a lot of air in their make up are intellectual, objective, lively, idealistic and articulate. In combination with the other elements, air feels that water will obscure it, earth will suffocate it, but fire will inspire and uplift it. It is the element of agility.
★ '
Water signs'--'Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces'-- Water represents human feelings and man's ability to love and sustain. The Water signs are associated with growth processes, identification and emotion, and people with a lot of water in their make up are sensitive, intuitive, secretive, and moody. In combination with the other elements, water feels that fire will make it boil, air will evaporate it, but earth will shape and channel it. It is the element of life.
In various belief systems, four is considered an earthly number, there being four elements. Three is considered a divine number, and there are three qualities. Three plus four equals seven, a number often signifying the union of heaven and earth.
The Three Qualities
The Qualities assign the Signs into Quadruplicities, three groups of four.
[5] They are occasionally referred to as crosses because each quality forms a cross when drawn across the zodiac. Christian astrology relates the three qualities to the three aspects of god in the trinity.
★
Cardinal signs ('Aries', 'Cancer', 'Libra' and 'Capricorn') are associated with initiation and creativity. A person with a lot of Cardinal qualities in their make up will be spontaneous, restless, good at organizing and a natural leader.
★
Fixed signs ('Taurus', 'Leo', 'Scorpio' and 'Aquarius') are associated with focus, individuality and determination. A person with a lot of Fixed qualities in their make up will be stable, conservative, solid, purposeful, persevering, loyal and a little inflexible in their outlook
★
Mutable signs ('Gemini', 'Virgo', 'Sagittarius' and 'Pisces') are associated with resourcefulness, holism and adaptability. A person with a lot of Mutable qualities in their make up will be flexible, forward looking, have multiple talents and be good at being of service to others.
Additional classifications
While knowing the element and quality of a sign is sufficient to define it, several other groupings can be used for those interested in better understanding their symbolism. The most common is a sequential cycle detailed below. Although most commonly used to define planets, it is valid for signs as well. This cycle has been used as a metaphorical descriptor of the process of birth, development, and death, of humans, societies, or even humanity.
★ '
Personal Signs - Aries, Taurus, Gemini, and Cancer ' - are principally aware of and concerned with the self. They tend to be earnest as fabricating a lie would be like lying to themselves. Attributes associated with each of them include: energy, competition; earthly pleasures, simplicity; communication, wit; being moody, or shy/attention craving.
★ '
Interpersonal Signs - Leo, Virgo, Libra, and Scorpio' - are principally aware of and concerned with others, and sociality. Here we see signs that represent various aspects of society and how humans relate, for these signs are respectively associated with: rulership, creativity; ideals, justice, organized war; order, cleanliness, logic; deeper meaning, religion, and the occult.
★ '
Transpersonal Signs - Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, Pisces ' - are principally aware of and concerned with humanity; they are respectively associated with: professionalism,stardom, executiveship, material accumulation; philosophy, travel, culture; equality, technology, democracy; art, psychic abilities, and universal love.
Planetary rulerships
In
traditional Western astrology, each sign is ruled by one and only one of the seven visible
planets (note that in
astrology, the Sun and Moon are termed The Lights by astrologers, while the other bodies are called
planets, which literally means ''wanderers'', i.e. wandering stars as opposed to the fixed stars). The traditional rulerships are as follows:
Aries (
Mars),
Taurus (
Venus),
Gemini (
Mercury),
Cancer (
Moon),
Leo (
Sun),
Virgo (
Mercury),
Libra (
Venus),
Scorpio (
Mars),
Sagittarius (
Jupiter),
Capricorn (
Saturn),
Aquarius (
Saturn),
Pisces (
Jupiter).
Many modern, psychologically-oriented
astrologers believe that
Uranus is the ruler or co-ruler of
Aquarius instead of Saturn,
Neptune is the ruler or co-ruler of
Pisces instead of Jupiter, and that
Pluto is the ruler or co-ruler of
Scorpio instead of Mars (with other modern astrologers claiming that Pluto rules Aries and ''not'' Scorpio). Traditional astrology adheres to the rulerships system listed in the paragraph above, and the
debate continues between those who consider the newly discovered planets as rulers or co-rulers of certain signs and those that do not.
Some astrologers do not even use the astrological signs at all (mostly Cosmobiologists and Uranian Astrologers/
Hamburg School); therefore they do not take into account planetary rulerships and the essential dignities when interpreting an astrological chart.
Dignity and detriment, exaltation and fall
A traditional belief of astrology is the idea that the sun, moon and planets are more powerful and effective in some signs than others, because the basic nature of both is held to be in harmony. By contrast, the sun, moon and planets are held to find some signs to be weak or difficult to operate in because their natures are thought to be in conflict . The most important of these categories are Dignity, Detriment, Exaltation and Fall.
★ '
Dignity' and '
Detriment' : A
planet is strengthened or 'dignified' if it falls within the sign that it rules. In other words it is said to exercise ''
Rulership'' of the sign. For example, the Moon in Cancer is considered "strong" (well-dignified). Seventeenth century astrologer
William Lilly compared rulership to a king on his throne, with considerable dignity. If a planet is in the sign opposite that which it rules (or is dignified), it is said to be weakened or in 'Detriment', for example the moon in Capricorn.
In traditional astrology, other levels of Dignity are recognised in addition to Rulership. These are known as Exaltation (see below),
Triplicity ,
Terms or bounds, and Face or
Decan , which together are known as describing a planet's ''
Essential dignity'', the quality or ability to give of one's true nature. Contemporary traditional astrologers like
John Frawley or
J Lee Lehman explain further on the concept of Essential Dignity.
★ '
Exaltation' and '
Fall' : In addition, a planet is also strengthened when it is in its sign of 'Exaltation'. In traditional horary astrology, Exaltation denotes a level of dignity somewhat exaggerated compared to rulership. Exaltation was considered to give the planet (or what it signified in a horary chart) dignity, with the metaphor of an honoured guest - who is the centre of attention but the extent of their ability to act is limited. Examples of planets in their Exaltation are: Saturn (Libra), Sun (Aries), Venus (Pisces), Moon (Taurus), Mercury (Virgo, although some disagree to this classification), Mars (Capricorn). A planet in the opposite sign of its Exaltation is said to be in its 'Fall' (e.g. Moon in Scorpio), and thus weakened, perhaps seemingly more so than Detriment.
In addition to Essential dignity, the traditional astrologer considers ''
Accidental dignity'' of planets. This is placement by
house in the chart under examination. Accidental dignity describes the planet's "ability to act". So we might have, for example, Moon in Cancer, dignified by rulership, is placed in the 12th house it would have little scope to express its good nature. The 12th is a cadent house as are the 3rd, 6th and 9th and planets in these houses are considered weak or afflicted. On the other hand, Moon in the 1st, 4th, 7th or 10th would be more able to act as these are Angular houses. Planets in Succedent houses of the chart (2nd, 5th, 8th, 11th) are generally considered to be of medium ability to act. Besides Accidental Dignity, there are a range of ''Accidental Debilities'', such as retrogradation, Under the Sun's Beams, Combust, and so forth.
Jyotish or Indian zodiac signs
Jyotish astrology recognises twelve zodiac signs, or
Rashis verified by Pandit Jaitly:
| Number | Sanskrit Name | Meaning | Western Name | Meaning |
| 1 | Mesha | ''Ram'' | Aries | ''Ram'' |
| 2 | Vrishabha | ''Bull'' | Taurus | ''Bull'' |
| 3 | Mithuna | ''Pair'' | Gemini | ''Twins'' |
| 4 | Karka | ''Crab'' | Cancer | ''Crab'' |
| 5 | Simha | ''Lion'' | Leo | ''Lion'' |
| 6 | Kanya | ''Girl'' | Virgo | ''Virgin'' |
| 7 | Tula | ''Balance'' | Libra | ''Scales'' |
| 8 | Vrishchika | ''Scorpion'' | Scorpio | ''Scorpion'' |
| 9 | Dhanus | ''Bow, Arc'' | Sagittarius | ''Archer'' |
| 10 | Makara | ''Sea-monster'' | Capricorn | ''Sea-goat'' |
| 11 | Kumbha | ''Pitcher, Water-pot'' | Aquarius | ''Water-carrier'' |
| 12 | Meena | ''Fish'' | Pisces | ''Fish'' |
It can be seen from the table above that the signs of the Western and Indian zodiacs are very similar in their meanings. To put it another way, they are simply the same signs in their Latin and Sanskrit forms.
Indian versus Western zodiac
Indian astrology uses the "sidereal" zodiac, which relies on the position of the constellations; while most Western astrologers use the "tropical" zodiac which divides the zodiac starting with the northern hemisphere
vernal equinox. Over the centuries this has led to a divergence between the two zodiac systems. This divergence can be seen in the following table which compares the dates that the sun enters a sign in tropical (Western) and sidereal (Indian or ''Jyotisha'') astrological systems; and the date when it enters the astronomical
constellation by the same name using the
International Astronomical Union (IAU) 1930 definition of the boundaries.
It can be seen that the Indian sidereal dates are much closer to the IAU dates on account of both being based on the constellations. The Western zodiac, on the other hand, has diverged by about a month from the original constellation based zodiac. The dates can also vary by as much as 2 days, from year to year, depending on the cycle of leap years, and the
precession of the
perihelion of the Earth's orbit over many centuries.
Nakshatras
Main articles: Nakshatra
The twelve signs of the zodiac are not given the same prominence in Indian astrology that they are in the Western tradition. Instead the emphasis is on the system of 27 (or 28) 'nakshatras' or lunar mansions, which have been used in Indian astrology since
Vedic times. The nakshatras consist of equal divisions of the moon's path along the ecliptic and function in a similar way to the signs of the zodiac in that they represent different personality types. It is considered that the position of the moon in a particular nakshatra at the time of person's birth will give a strong indication of that individual's character and of the kind of path they will follow throughout life.
Chinese zodiac signs
Main articles: Chinese astrology
Unlike the Western or Indian zodiacs, the Chinese zodiac signs are not derived from constellations, and are not assigned to sections of the ecliptic. Instead, Chinese astrological signs operate on cycles of years, lunar months, and two-hour periods of the day (also known as ''shichen''). A particular feature of the Chinese zodiac is its operation in a
sixty year cycle in combination with the
five elements of Chinese astrology (
Wood,
Fire,
Earth,
Metal, and
Water).
Zodiac symbolism
The following table shows the twelve signs and their attributes.
| 'Sign | 'Yin/Yang | 'Direction | 'Season | 'Fixed Element | 'Trine |
| Rat | Yang | North | Winter | Water | 1st |
| Ox | Yin | North north east | Winter | Water | 2nd |
| Tiger | Yang | East north east | Spring | Wood | 3rd |
| Rabbit | Yin | East | Spring | Wood | 4th |
| Dragon | Yang | East south east | Spring | Wood | 1st |
| Snake | Yin | South south east | Summer | Fire | 2nd |
| Horse | Yang | South | Summer | Fire | 3rd |
| Sheep | Yin | South south west | Summer | Fire | 4th |
| Monkey | Yang | West south west | Autumn | Metal | 1st |
| Rooster | Yin | West | Autumn | Metal | 2nd |
| Dog | Yang | West north west | Autumn | Metal | 3rd |
| Pig | Yin | North north west | Winter | Water | 4th |
The twelve signs
Chart showing the 24 cardinal directions and the symbols of the sign associated with them.
In Chinese astrology the zodiac of twelve animal sign represents twelve different types of personality. The zodiac traditionally begins with the sign of the Rat, and there are many stories about the
Origins of the Chinese Zodiac which explain why this is so. When the twelve zodiac signs are part of the sixty year calendar in combination with the five elements, they are traditionally called the twelve
earthly branches. The following are the twelve zodiac signs in order and their characteristics.
[6]
'Note: The first symbol is simply the name of the animal written in Chinese, while the second Chinese symbol is the character specifically used in astrology to denote the animal sign.'
#鼠 子
Rat (Yang, 1st Trine, Fixed Element Water): The Rat person is forthright, inquisitive, honest, hardworking, industrious, thrifty, generous to close family and friends, bright, intuitive, sociable, shrewd, clannish. They can also sometimes be gossipy, critical, over-ambitious, avaricious. The Rat's good entrepreneurial skills, quickness to exploit opportunities and good eye for detail means they can achieve financial success. Also good writers, doctors, nurses. Rat years include 1900, 1912, 1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996. The month of the Rat is Dec 7 - Jan 5, and the hours of the Rat are 11pm - 1am.
#牛 丑
Ox (Yin, 2nd Trine, Fixed Element Water): The Ox person is dependable, calm, methodical, patient, hardworking, ambitious, conventional, disciplined, steady, modest, fair-minded, logical, resolute, tenacious. They can also sometimes be stubborn, narrowminded, materialistic, rigid, demanding and nurture grievances. The Ox can attain prosperity and success through fortitude, hard work and natural leadership qualities. Ox years include 1901, 1913, 1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997. The month of the Ox is Jan 6 - Feb 3, and the hours of the Ox are 1am - 3am.
#虎 寅
Tiger (Yang, 3rd Trine, Fixed Element Wood): The Tiger person is unpredictable, rebellious, colorful, powerful, passionate, daring, impulsive, vigorous, stimulating, sincere, affectionate, humanitarian, generous. They can also sometimes be restless, reckless, impatient, quick-tempered, obstinate, selfish. The Tiger person will trust to luck and their own charisma and daring to achieve success, and their idealism and humanitarian instincts will inform their goals. Tiger years include 1902, 1914, 1926, 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998. The month of the Tiger is Feb 4 - Mar 5, and the hours of the Tiger are 3am - 5am.
#兔 卯
Rabbit (Yin, 4th Trine, Fixed Element Wood): The Rabbit person is gracious, kind, sensitive, soft-spoken, amiable, elegant, reserved, cautious, artistic, thorough, tender, self-assured, astute, compassionate, flexible. They can also sometimes be moody, detached, superficial, self-indulgent, opportunistic, lazy. The Rabbit person will pursue objectives methodically but unobtrusively, using friendliness and amiability to persuade others, and inscrutability and astuteness to outwit their opponents. Rabbit Years include 1903, 1915, 1927, 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999. The month of the Rabbit is Mar 6 - Apr 4, and the hours of the Rabbit are 5am - 7am.
#龍 辰
Dragon (Yang, 1st Trine, Fixed Element Wood): The Dragon person is magnanimous, vigorous, strong, self-assured, proud, direct, eager, zealous, fiery, passionate, decisive, pioneering, ambitious, generous, loyal, idealistic. They can also sometimes be arrogant, demanding, eccentric, dogmatic, over-bearing, impetuous, brash. The Dragon person needs a mission or goal in life, and they will rely on their strength and confidence to achieve it. Good educators, instructors and sportspeople. Dragon years include 1904, 1916, 1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000. The month of the Dragon is Apr 5 - May 4, and the hours of the Dragon are 7am - 9am.
#蛇 巳
Snake (Yin, 2nd Trine, Fixed Element Fire): The Snake person is a deep thinker, wise, mystic, graceful, soft-spoken, sensual, creative, prudent, shrewd, ambitious, elegant, cautious, responsible, calm, strong, constant, purposeful. They can also sometimes be a loner, bad communicator, possessive, hedonistic, controlling, ruthless, distrustful, vengeful. The Snake person can pursue goals ruthlessly and with calculation, and strives for control though power. Good politician, business person, theologian, philosopher. Snake years include 1905, 1917, 1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001. The month of the Snake is May 5 - Jun 5, and the hours of the Snake are 9am - 11am.
#馬 午
Horse (Yang, 3rd Trine, Fixed Element Fire): The Horse person is cheerful, popular, quick-witted, changeable, earthy, perceptive, talkative, agile mentally and physically, magnetic, intelligent, astute, flexible, open-minded. They can also sometimes be impetuous, hot-tempered, rude, stubborn, lack stability and perseverance. The Horse person is success and performance oriented and relies on their astuteness and keen minds and persuasive abilities to achieve it. Horse years include 1906, 1918, 1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002. The month of the Horse is Jun 6 - Jul 6, and the hours of the Horse are 11am - 1pm.
#羊 未
Sheep (Yin, 4th Trine, Fixed Element Fire): The Sheep person is righteous, sincere, sympathetic, mild-mannered, shy, artistic, creative, gentle, compassionate, understanding, mothering, determined, peaceful, generous, seeks security. They can also sometimes be moody, indecisive, over-passive, worrier, pessimistic, over-sensitive, complainer. The Sheep person relies on their good nature and sensitivity to persuade others to meet their needs and use subtle, indirect methods and persistence to achieve them. Good at artistic and creative pursuits. Sheep years include 1907, 1919, 1931, 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003. The month of the Sheep is Jul 7 - Aug 7, and the hours of the Sheep are 1pm - 3pm.
#猴 申
Monkey (Yang, 1st Trine, Fixed Element Metal): The Monkey person is an inventor, motivator, improviser, quick-witted, inquisitive, flexible, innovative, problem solver, self-assured, sociable, polite, dignified, competitive, objective, factual, intellectual. They can also sometimes be egotistical, vain, selfish, cunning, jealous, suspicious. The Monkey person is competitive and success oriented and uses their guile, charm and self confidence to achieve their goals. Good actors, writers, lawyers, diplomats, sportspeople, teachers. Monkey years include 1908, 1920, 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004. The month of the Monkey is Aug 8 - Sep 7, and the hours of the Monkey are 3pm - 5pm.
#雞 酉
Rooster (Yin, 2nd Trine, Fixed Element Metal): The Rooster person is acute, neat, meticulous, organized, self-assured, decisive, conservative, critical, perfectionist, alert, zealous, practical, scientific, responsible. They can also sometimes be over zealous and critical, puritanical, egotistical, abrasive, opinionated. The Rooster person uses their good administrative skills, and efficient, precise and methodical nature to achieve their goals. Good accountants, scientists, administrators, teachers, nurses. Rooster years include 1909, 1921, 1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005. The month of the Rooster is Sep 8 - Oct 7 and the hours of the Rooster are 5pm - 7pm.
#狗 戌
Dog (Yang, 3rd Trine, Fixed Element Metal): The Dog person is honest, intelligent, straightforward, loyal, sense of justice and fair play, attractive, amiable, unpretentious, sociable, open-minded, idealistic, moralistic, practical, intelligent, affectionate, ''dogged''. They can also sometimes be cynical, lazy, cold, judgmental, pessimistic, worrier, stubborn, quarrelsome. The Dog person uses their sense of fair play, determination and practicality to achieve their goals. Good soldiers, teachers, lawyers, judges, doctors, religious workers. Dog years include 1910, 1922, 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006. The month of the Dog is Oct 8 - Nov 7, and the hours of the Dog are 7pm - 9pm.
#豬 亥
Pig (Yin, 4th Trine, Fixed Element Water): The Pig person is honest, simple, gallant, sturdy, courageous, persevering, resolute,sociable, peace-loving, patient, loyal, hard-working, trusting, sincere, diligent, calm, understanding, thoughtful, scrupulous, passionate, intelligent. They can also sometimes be naive, over-reliant, self-indulgent, condescending, fatalistic, materialistic. The Pig person uses their patience, hard work, strength, sociability and loyalty to achieve their goals. Good teachers, fundraisers, club and society organisers. Pig years include 1911, 1923, 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007. The month of the Pig is Nov 8 - Dec 6, and the hours of the Pig are 9pm - 11pm.
The four trines
The twelve animal signs are also broken into four categories of three signs each, known as ''trines''
★ 'The First Trine'
The first trine consists of the 'Rat, Dragon, and Monkey'. These three signs are intense and powerful individuals, capable of great good or great evil. They make great leaders, but the three have different approaches. Rats and Dragons have a tendency to be quite dictatorial and autocratic, whilst Monkeys are more diplomatic. Frustrated when hampered, these signs are ruled by highly potent energy and unpredictability. They are intelligent, magnanimous, charismatic, charming, authoritative, confident, eloquent and artistic. They can also be tyrannical, bombastic, prejudiced, deceitful, imperious, ruthless, power-hungry, and megalomaniacal.
★ 'The Second Trine'
The second trine consists of the 'Ox, Snake, and Rooster'. These three soul mates conquer life through endurance, application, and slow accumulation of energy. Although each sign is fixed and rigid in opinions and views, they are genius in the art of meticulous planning. They are hardworking, discreet, modest, industrious, charitable, loyal, punctual, philosophical, patient, and good-hearted individuals with high moral standards. They can also be self-righteous, vain, critical, judgemental, narrow-minded, petty, and pessimistic.
★ 'The Third Trine'
The third trine consists of the 'Tiger, Horse, and Dog'. These three signs seek one another, and are like-minded in their pursuit of humanitarian causes. Each is a gifted orator and excels at verbal communication. Relationships and personal contact are of highest priority and each one seek their intimate soul mate. Idealistic and impulsive, the Tiger, Horse and Dog follow the beat of their own drummer. Defiant against injustice, these three signs wilt without large amounts of physical affection and loyal support for causes. They are productive, enthusiastic, independent, engaging, dynamic, and honourable. They can also be rash, rebellious, quarrelsome, hot-headed, reckless, anxious, moody, disagreeable, stubborn, and selfish.
★ 'The Fourth Trine'
The fourth trine consists of the 'Rabbit, Sheep and Pig'. The quest for these three signs is the aesthetic and beautiful in life. Their calm nature gives them great leadership abilities. They are artistic, refined, intuitive, and well-mannered. These souls love the preliminaries in love, and are fine artists in their lovemaking. The Rabbit, Sheep and Pig have been bestowed with calmer natures than the other 9 signs. These three are compassionately aware, yet detached and resigned to their condition. They seek beauty and a sensitive lover. They are caring, unique, self-sacrificing, obliging, sensible, creative, empathetic, tactful, and prudent. They can also be naive, pedantic, insecure, cunning, indecisive, and pessimistic.
The five elements
The elements differ in Chinese astrology from their Western counterparts: Air is not one of the elements as defined by the Chinese. Instead, Wood and Metal are elements alongside Earth, Fire and Water. In addition, the elements also govern various aspects of one's personality, and are assigned to various other things such as directions (North, South, East and West), colours, seasons and planets.
The characteristics of the five elements are as follows:
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★ '
Metal': The metal person is rigid and resolute in expression and intense, with strong feelings. They are capable of prolonged effort, and are success oriented and determined, with strong monetary and accumulative impulses. They are independent, preferring to handle problems alone and form their own paths without interference. Their strong impulses and generative powers can bring about great changes and transformations. However, they can also be stubborn, opinionated,fixated and unbending. The direction associated with Metal is West, and the season is autumn, which makes it the fixed element for the animal signs Monkey, Rooster and Dog.
★ '
Water': The water person is a good communicator and persuader, intuitive and sympathetic to others and good at conveying feelings and emotions. They are observant and know how to prod and influence others to their own goals by unobtrusive persistence and diplomacy. They would rather be conciliatory and infiltrate than dominate. They have good awareness and are able to see future potentials and be flexible, fluid and open to change. However, they can also be too ready to take the easy option, be inconstant, over-passive and too eager to please. The direction associated with Water is North, and the season is winter, which makes it the fixed element for the animal signs Pig, Rat and Ox.
★ '
Wood': The wood person has high morals, is self confident, expansive and co-operative, with wide and varied interests. They like to do things on a grand scale, and have executive abilities, being good at leading and delegating and also team work. They are progressive, generous and persuasive, with lots of goodwill and understanding. They are good at diversifying, branching out and finding finances and opportunities. However, they can also over-extend themselves and spread their resources too thinly. The direction associated with Wood is East, and the season is spring, which makes it the fixed element for the animal signs Tiger, Rabbit and Dragon.
★ '
Fire': The fire person has leadership qualities, and is decisive, self confident, positive and assertive. They are motivators, doers, and pioneers, open to new ideas and are creative and original. They are capable of being dynamic and inspiring others. However they can also be aggressive, impatient, domineering, forceful, impulsive and too-outspoken. The direction associated with Fire is South, and the season is summer, which makes it the fixed element for the animal signs Snake, Horse and Sheep.
★ '
Earth': The earth person is functional, practical, solid, reliable, organized and methodical. They have good deductive powers and are able to show foresight and planning. They make effective administrators and are wise and prudent in finance. They are intelligent, objective, persistent, disciplined and responsible. However, they can also be unimaginative, over-protective, and pessimistic. The direction associated with Earth is the Centre. Some Chinese astrologers associate Earth with late summer.
The five elements operate together with the twelve animal signs in a
sixty year calendar. The five elements appear in the calendar in both their yin and yang forms and are known as the ten
heavenly stems. When trying to calculate the relevant year of the cycle in relation to the Western calendar, an easy rule to follow is that years that end in an even number are yang, those that end with an odd number are yin. The cycle proceeds as follows:
★ If the year ends in 0 it is Yang Metal.
★ If the year ends in 1 it is Yin Metal.
★ If the year ends in 2 it is Yang Water.
★ If the year ends in 3 it is Yin Water.
★ If the year ends in 4 it is Yang Wood.
★ If the year ends in 5 it is Yin Wood.
★ If the year ends in 6 it is Yang Fire.
★ If the year ends in 7 it is Yin Fire.
★ If the year ends in 8 it is Yang Earth.
★ If the year ends in 9 it is Yin Earth.
References
1. Jeff Mayo, ''Teach Yourself Astrology'', p 35, Hodder and Stoughton, London, 1979
2. Theodora Lau, ''The Handbook of Chinese Horoscopes'', pxxvii, Souvenir Press, New York, 2005
3. Robert Pelletier & Leonard Cataldo ''Be Your Own Astrologer'' pp 24 - 33, Pan Books Ltd, London 1984; Maritha Pottenger, ''Astro Essentials'', pp 31 - 36, ACS Publications San Diego, 1991 ; Jeff Mayo, ''Ibid'', pp 41-55, 1979
4. Robert Pelletier & Leonard Cataldo ''Ibid'' p 43, 1984; Maritha Pottenger, ''Ibid'', pp 383 - 93, 1991
5. Robert Pelletier & Leonard Cataldo ''Ibid'' p 44 , 1984; Maritha Pottenger, ''Ibid'', pp 383 - 93, 1991
6. Theodora Lau, ''Ibid'', pp2-8, 30-5, 60-4, 88-94, 118-24, 148-53, 178-84, 208-13, 238-44, 270-78, 306-12, 338-44, 2005
7. Theodora Lau, ''Ibid'', ppxxx- xxxvi, 2005
See also
★
Astrology
★
Age of Aquarius
★
Zodiac
★
Astrological symbols
External links
★
Rulerships - This site deals with the traditional rulership system as used in Classical Astrology.
★
Rulerships & Essential Dignities - Useful resources on planetary rulerships & essential dignities.
★
Horary Rulership - Learn more about the rulership system as it applies to horary astrology.
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