What is Astrology

Astrology is defined as the study of heavenly cycles and cosmic events as they are reflected in our environment here on earth. Astrology is an ancient science - as old as time itself.

For thousands of years man has recorded the relationships and patterns between the planets and the earth. We all know that the gravitational forces of the moon create the rise and fall of ocean tides. The Farmers Almanac uses astrology to determine growing cycles and the best time to plant and to harvest. From the spawning salmon to the laying of turtle eggs, all of these cycles of nature are influenced by the stars and planets which are aspects of Astrology.

True Astrology is a science based on mathematics and astronomy. It tells the story of where the planets, sun and moon were at the exact moment of our birth and how these placements effect our lives. With extreme accuracy, astrology is able to break down our personalities, strengths, challenges, and potentials, and give us insights as to what lies ahead. Astrology provides an approach to life that can allow us to get more out of it. It can help us to see ourselves and our lives in a greater perspective.

The Zodiac Signs

 

There are twelve signs of the zodiac

The Three Qualities in Astrology

The three qualities in astrology are cardinal, fixed and mutable. Four signs share a quality:

• Cardinal signs are aries, libra, cancer and capricorn.
• Fixed signs are taurus, scorpio, leo and aquarius.
• Mutable signs are gemini, sagittarius, virgo and pisces.

Qualities of the cardinal modality are:

• skillful - beginning, initiating, originating, enterprising, direct and active;
• unskillful �?impatient, dissatisfied, does not finish what it starts, forceful.

Qualities of the fixed modality include:

• skillful - stabilizing, focused, resolving, constant, determined;
• unskillful - stubborn, rigid, obsessed, stuck.

Qualities of the mutable modality include:

• skillful - adaptable, flexible, adjustable, changing, versatile;
• unskillful - scattered, unfocused, inconsistent, indecisive and unfinishing.

The Astrological Polarities

Lastly, the zodiac signs are alternately positive and negative, beginning with the first sign, aries, which is positive. These are known as the polarities.

The Astrology Patterns

The pattern of elements and qualities in the astrological signs is constant—every third sign has the same element. Every fourth sign has the same quality. So, each of the twelve signs represents a different combination of element and quality. Signs associated with the same elements are in trine with each other (one hundred and twenty-degree angles between them) which is seen as being in harmony with each other. While signs of the same quality are "squared" meaning there is a ninety-degree angle between them. This traditionally has been termed "out of sympathy" with each other, namely, aries, taurus, gemini, cancer, leo, virgo, libra, scorpio, sagittarius, capricorn, aquarius, and pisces—also known as sun signs.

These twelve zodiac signs represent conditions or fields of operation, and have no power in themselves. The signs are thought of as areas of action, and the planets are the action. Also, no one sign is better or worse, nor more or less evolved than another  They are all different and unique.

The individual signs achieve their prominence in an individual astrology chart because of the planets and the lights (the sun and moon) which lie within them. The attributes held by each sign are due to its rulership.  Each sign is ruled by a planet , and some signs have a second or co-ruler. The co-ruler has a definite influence on the particular sign, but not as strong as that of the ruler. Each sign additionally has characteristics derived from its element, its quality and its polarity.

The Four Elements

Fire, earth, water and air are the four astrological elements, and three signs are associated with each element giving rise to the term triplicities.

• The three fire signs are: aries, leo and sagittarius.
• The three earth signs are: taurus, virgo and capricorn.
• The three water signs are: cancer, scorpio and pisces.
• The three air signs are gemini, libra and aquarius.

The Three Qualities in Astrology

The three qualities in astrology are cardinal, fixed and mutable. Four signs share a quality:

• Cardinal signs are aries, libra, cancer and capricorn.
• Fixed signs are taurus, scorpio, leo and aquarius.
• Mutable signs are gemini, sagittarius, virgo and pisces.

Qualities of the cardinal modality are:

• skillful - beginning, initiating, originating, enterprising, direct and active;
• unskillful �?impatient, dissatisfied, does not finish what it starts, forceful.

Qualities of the fixed modality include:

• skillful - stabilizing, focused, resolving, constant, determined;
• unskillful - stubborn, rigid, obsessed, stuck.

Qualities of the mutable modality include:

• skillful - adaptable, flexible, adjustable, changing, versatile;
• unskillful - scattered, unfocused, inconsistent, indecisive and unfinishing.

The Astrological Polarities

Lastly, the zodiac signs are alternately positive and negative, beginning with the first sign, aries, which is positive. These are known as the polarities.

The Astrology Patterns

The pattern of elements and qualities in the astrological signs is constant—every third sign has the same element. Every fourth sign has the same quality. So, each of the twelve signs represents a different combination of element and quality. Signs associated with the same elements are in trine with each other (one hundred and twenty-degree angles between them) which is seen as being in harmony with each other. While signs of the same quality are "squared" meaning there is a ninety-degree angle between them. This traditionally has been termed "out of sympathy" with each other.

 

The Astrological Planets

The Sun, Moon, Mercury, Venus, mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune, Pluto are the astrological planets.

The planets in astrology provide the power, the energy and the principles while the astrological signs are the areas, circumstances and conditions through which they operate.

Astrological planets are colored by the signs they are in, as well as by that sign's ruler and co-ruler. When a planet is in the sign that it rules, it is said to be in dignity, and when it is in the opposite sign, it is in its detriment.

 

The Astrological Houses

The horoscope's division into twelve segments - the twelve houses - represents the twelve departments of life: 

The First House
The First House takes its meaning for the ascendant and represents the self, the people and their behavior. It is linked to aries.
The Second House
The Second House represents all financial affairs, desires for stability, constructive talents, financial independence and values. It is linked to taurus.
The Third House
The Third House represents travel, communications, trade, the media, the mind, writing, intellectuals, education, ideas, relatives and speech. It is linked to gemini.
The Fourth House
The Fourth House represents home, family, ethnic pride, the land, wealth, the personal and national soul. It is linked to cancer.
The Fifth House
The Fifth House represents self-expression, youth, romance, pleasures, financial speculation, sports, games, children, royalty and nobility. It is linked to leo.
The Sixth House
The Sixth House represents public health, work, service industries, civil and military service, labor unions, employees, charities and welfare. It is linked to virgo.
The Seventh House
The Seventh House rules international relations, politics, war, disputes, legal affairs, marriage, divorce, contracts and public scandal. It is linked to libra.
The Eighth House
The Eighth House rules financial dealings, corporations, taxes, insurance, mortgages, communes, stock markets and debts. It stands for death, rebirth, renewal and the occult. It is linked to scorpio.
The Ninth House
The Ninth House rules foreign affairs, trade, distant travels, higher education, philosophy, the law, the courts, the church and prophecy. It is linked to sagittarius.
The Tenth House
The Tenth House stands for the government, the executive and public life. It is linked to capricorn.
The Eleventh House
The Eleventh House represents group cooperation, idealistic associations, government finance, social programs, theater, friends, profitable inventions and hopes for the future. It is linked to aquarius.
The Twelfth House
The Twelfth House rules karma, secret enemies, prisons, monasteries, hospitals, spirituality, exile, and the search for self-renewal. It is linked to pisces.

Astrology is certainly not all things to all people, but properly used, it can and should be used as a helpful guide in our daily lives as we interact and make decisions about our life's paths.

 

 

The Sun in the Houses of the Natal ChartThe position of the Sun by house (that is, the house that the Sun occupies in the birth chart) reveals an area of life where we need to feel special. It is where we feel the need to distinguish ourselves from others. 

The Sun is an active, rather than reactive, force. As such, we can effect changes in the affairs ruled by the house of our Sun. In fact, in order to find happiness and direction in our lives, we must recognize that we identify with the areas of life ruled by this house. We need to shine in some way in these life matters! We cannot ignore these house matters—we need to take purposeful action here.

So, if the Sun is in the 6th house, we must recognize that being of service to others, such as through daily work, is vitally important to our identity. Taking action to find our niche in terms of the work or service we do will contribute much to our sense of self-worth and esteem. 

Now, we must also be careful to avoid over-identifying with the affairs of the house our Sun occupies. Our ego may be over-developed in these areas, and our pride easily bruised. In our example of Sun in the 6th house, negative expression of this position may be a tendency to over-identify with our work; to feel useless when we are not working; to define ourselves in terms of the service we provide to others; to over-react to criticism of the job we do; or to become engrossed in service at the cost of finding our true calling in life.

Sun in the 1st House

You identify strongly with the image you present to others. You make an impression on others -- you have "presence" -- and you know it. You are self-conscious, although you may prefer to project a strong image. You will feel at your best when you make a mark on the world, but avoid obsessing over what others think of you. Accept that you need to be a leader or an innovator, and go for it, but be careful not to be overbearing with others.

Alternate interpretation: With the Sun's energy in the First House, your personality drive will find expression mainly through personal issues related to self-image, physical appearance and personal interests. You are required to acquire knowledge of self in order to sustain a true sense of identity, purpose and destiny. Strong will-power and self-assurance add strength to your personality. Very brave, positive and competitive, you develop natural leadership qualities. Your enterprising nature, with a capability for seizing opportunities is another factor for success - obstacles are overcome by sheer physical courage. You are to become self-determined and self-sufficient, carving your own path in life. Your enthusiasm for life may manifest as robust health and vitality. There may be some tendency to pride and insolence at times. -- From the Character Profile.

Sun in the 2nd House:

You take pride in what you own, and have a strong drive for security. You have staying power, and you hate to let others down once you've made a promise. Avoid over-identifying with what you have. Concentrate on proving your worth through your strong value system and your incredible ability to stick with things and with people. Take pride in the solid and secure foundations that you build, as well as the lasting relationships you aim to maintain, while being careful to avoid possessiveness.

Alternate Interpretation: With the Sun's energy in the Second House, your personality drive will mainly be directed into the creation of personal wealth, with an emphasis on financial security. A strong desire for material possessions is a dominant motivating factor in your life. You are very sensible with money and, unless very careless, should always be comfortably off. -- From the Character Profile.

Sun in the 3rd House:

You need activity and a change of scenery often, or you feel restless. You take pride in your mental agility and your friendships. You are able to adapt quite easily to whatever environment you're in. There is a strong need to communicate your knowledge to others and to learn. Your curiosity is endless. Take pride in your intellectual or communicative abilities without feeling the need to lord it over others or to always be "in the know".

Alternate Interpretation: You get off to a fast start in life. You expect to be good at what you do. You see competency as primarily a matter of experience, and you set out to gather a broad understanding of people, your environment and life in your early years. The natural lines of growth in life show that you concentrate on communication and learning as your self-picture develops. 

 

Sun in the 4th House:

You invest much of your pride and energy into your personal and private life, your home, and your family. Privacy is important to you. You are naturally protective of your family, including your heritage, and of your personal life. Avoid being defensive as you work to build a secure foundation for yourself and the people you love.

Alternate Interpretation: You plan for the "long run" as part of your basic strategy in life. Your life improves with age because your real personality emerges more and more as you get older. You are interested in having your basic attachments and emotional interests taken care of before focusing your attention on anything else. Once this foundation is established you put your energy into satisfying your need for worldly fulfillment. Because you expect life to improve it generally does. --

Sun in the 5th House:

You want to be noticed for your unique and special qualities and your creativity. You are happiest when you are expressing yourself in a special way and attention comes your way as a result. You have a flair for drama and/or sports. You are proud of your fun-loving attitude towards life. As you demonstrate your ability to shine, avoid grabbing center stage all of the time. Your happy disposition is enough to get noticed, but do find creative ways to express yourself, as this is the path to true happiness for you.

Alternate Interpretation: With the Sun's energy in the Fifth House, your personality drive may express itself through adventurous and perhaps speculative ventures. An inner restlessness craves an outlet through social, romantic, and daring action. Pleasure and amusement play an important role in your search for freedom of self-expression. The love motive may also be strong. The overriding need is for creative expression of your personal powers and abilities. This could be through leadership, art, sport, entertainment, New Age ventures or the use of modern technology. In this search you will cover a lot of ground and a wide range of interests. Children may play an important role in some way. -- From the Character Profile.

Sun in the 6th House:

The work that you do, and the services that you offer, are very important to your sense of identity. In order to feel good about yourself, you need to be busy with daily activities and to produce work you can be proud of. Focus on finding a suitable and rewarding avenue for expressing this part of you, being extra careful to choose an occupation in which you can express yourself. You are sensitive to criticism about the work you do, and you work best when you can create your own schedule. Positive feedback for the services you render is important to you, but be careful not to over-identify with the appreciation you receive from others, as your work and your health suffers when you feel under-appreciated. Motivation to do a good job should come from within.

Alternate Interpretation: With the Sun's energy in the Sixth House, your vital forces may be drawn into some form of service that will bring deep personal satisfaction. Hard work and challenging situations are certainly indicated - probably within the work environment itself. You seek perfection and distinction in you work and this quality could bring you well-paid, responsible positions. Crisis situations will develop, but you meet these with steady determination. The Sun in this house also indicates a need to overcome some weakness. Often this relates to health matters. -- From the Character Profile.

Sun in the 7th House:

You take pride in your ability to negotiate, and to establish harmony in your relationships. It is important to you to have a partner, as you feel incomplete without one. You are motivated to become well-liked, and you are especially sensitive to rejection. One of the lessons in your life may be to avoid putting harmony and others' opinions of you above your own needs. Use your social skills and seek out peaceful relations with others, but try not to over-identify with your partnerships and the way you are received by others.

Alternate Interpretation: You are interested in relationships and you do better in life when you undertake tasks with others rather than pursue them alone. You love to share and you give yourself in great measure to your partner. You must learn not to put your objectives aside just because of your compliant nature. You will be successful with the associations that you form and also with people in general thanks to your good manners and charm.

This astrological position suggests eventual success in marriage. You should not hurry yourself nor let impatience get the better of you; the union will reach the promised success when you both have matured. You will choose an authoritative, strong and capable partner of whom you feel proud.

You are likely to win every judgment or legal litigation in which you find yourself involved. -- From the Adult Report.

Sun in the 8th House:

You have a great urge to go farther or deeper into life every step of the way. You want to experience more, and your desires are both powerful and intense. It is hard for you to find satisfaction in common experiences, and you have magnetic power if you choose to use it wisely. You are fascinated with what lies under the surface, and at some point in your life, self-improvement is a big interest. You are attracted to unexplored or taboo areas of life, and you avoid all things superficial.

Alternate Interpretation: Your feelings run deep so there is a need for attunement with your inner self. You may sometimes feel that you are destiny's plaything and will try to discover hidden parts of yourself through investigating "the mysteries" or take an interest in occult or metaphysical studies. As you increase your knowledge, you will recognize a compelling demand for constant change to promote your spiritual growth. This is often presented by material lessons to which you must adjust. In conforming, be prepared to relinquish some part of your life so that you may experience a rebirth on a higher level. --

Sun in the 9th House:

You have a deep need to understand the world around you. You have high ideals and you have your eye on what's on the horizon. You are looking ahead, and at times can seem quite restless. You are proud of your knowledge and of your morals. Be sure to avoid self-righteousness in your enthusiasm to share your knowledge. When used correctly, you are a tolerant, adventurous, and curious person, and you want to see the best in people and in life.

Alternate Interpretation: Your thirst for learning extends beyond the classroom. You acquire much of your knowledge from people of different cultures or in foreign lands. You probably have a flair for languages, making you valuable as a translator. It is possible you will earn more than one academic degree, and function as a teacher. One of your most admirable qualities is that, by touching the lives of others, you will come to understand that all men are brothers, separated only by self-imposed restrictions. Share your wisdom to overcome prejudice and the bigotry which impedes the spiritual growth of all.--.

Sun in the 10th House:

The urge to work toward a goal, for success and accomplishment, and/or for power is part of your make-up. You are uncomfortable in any position in which you must "take orders" from someone else. Recognize your ambitions and your need for authority without going overboard. Seek out a career that allows you to manage, rather than be managed, if possible. It is crucial that you accept the part of you that is ambitious, but take pains not to over-identify with an image that is not really you!

Alternate Interpretation: You have a great capacity to lead others and to excel as a professional. You will put a lot of energy into your work and you will have a brilliant career. You will always be in the public eye and will enjoy great renown. If your work is in politics or any leadership position, you will be successful.

You will show a lot of pride, arrogance and ambition in the material sense. You can not conceive of a fulfilling life that shows no improvement in your lot; your father figure influences you to elevate yourself. You will be able to transcend your initial social position to achieve status and recognition and you will feel very satisfied. In general you are competitive and authoritative.

In the future you will find an extraordinary partner with a good social position with whom to share your life. It will not be easy to please you and you will never resign yourself to settle for someone you do not consider worthy. -- From the Adult Report.

Sun in the 11th House:

You are a humanitarian who aims to treat everyone as equals. You seek to be unique and original, and you do your best to avoid bias and prejudice. Social status is less important to you than belonging to a group of diverse personalities. Your identity, in fact, is somehow linked to a larger unit than yourself. You have high hopes and goals, and tend to look at life in terms of opportunities. You have magnetic appeal, as people sense your broad tolerance and openness. The friendships you establish are crucial to your development. If you identify too much with your friendships and your friendliness, you may become too impersonal and alienate those who would like to get close to you.

Alternate Interpretation: You are everybody's friend, but not always a friend to everybody. You often value friendship above love and may choose to keep your friends for a lifetime. Quick to bond, you may be equally quick to separate from a relationship when it appears you have nothing in common. You will doubtless find a place in a variety of social and service clubs, and hold more than one office. You adapt easily and fit into almost any group because you know how to get the most out of a situation, refuse to compromise your ideals, and maintain harmony by finding values to which all can relate. --

Sun in the 12th House:

You have a tendency to be introspective and need some space and seclusion in order to pull up your strength. You may avoid the spotlight, and if you do find yourself in a public role, you tend to hide your true self behind that role! Because your will is directed inwards, you need to find a path for yourself that allows you to "get away from it all" at least some of the time. Honor your need to be alone with yourself, but avoid over-identifying with your inner world to the point that you truly feel alone in a crowd. You shine when you serve others in some way. Your compassion sets you apart from others, but try to work with it rather than let your compassion work against you by reinforcing your own sense of loneliness.

Alternate Interpretation: Some view this placement as the result of a misuse of power in past lives, because you are unduly hard on yourself. Your over-active mind is impressionable. You may become a square peg in a round hole if you wear the mask of others as your own. You require periods of seclusion for rest and self-examination, because you question why "no-one" understands you. If you seek counseling, you may become a counselor to help others avoid the pain of your experiences. You, too, are deserving. Acknowledge that if you are your own worst enemy, you can be your own best friend. --

Note that the Sun is more "comfortable" in some houses than it is in others. For example, the Sun's energy seeks to distinguish oneself as a separate identity. It feels very much "at home" in the fifth house which is its natural domain. In the twelfth, however, it is not as comfy-cozy! The twelfth house energy attempts to dissolve ego boundaries. The Sun is very personal, while the twelfth house is universal. The Sun represents the individual ego, and the twelfth house represents the collective. As such, the Sun in the twelfth house position is more complicated, both to live with and to interpret, than the Sun in the fifth house.

MORE CHINESE ASTROLOGY~
ANIMAL MONTH RULERS

Now you know what animal ruled the year you were born, in Chinese astrology.

Do you know that each month is also ruled by an animal? The Chinese calendar is based on a lunar year. The Lunar New Year is determined by cycles of the moon and therefore the dates are movable, each new year commencing on the new moon which occurred in the late January or February of the Western Calendar.

Each month begins at the following new moon. Each month is ruled by an animal, just as each year.

Want to know what animal rules the month you were born? Below, you will find the month, animal, and some basic attributes associated with that animal's sign.

These definitions color the Chinese horoscope of a person, whether they are born in the animal year, month, day, or hour.

Remember, the month begins with the new moon in that month, so check with a Chinese calendar to be sure of the animal for your birth month.

It is also good to check the calendar for your birth year, if you were born in mid-January to mid-February of any year.
Have Fun!

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DECEMBER

Chinese Name... Shu
English Name... Rat or Mouse
You are imaginative, charming, and truly generous to the person you love. However, you have a tendency to be quick-tempered and overly critical. Life is a joyous journey for you. Each search must end with a new quest. You are progress, exploration and insight. A valuable lesson for Rats is to learn to consider others above themselves, at least sometimes. If they can develop their sense of self and realize it leaves room for others in their life as well, Rats could find true happiness.

JANUARY

Chinese Name... Niu
English Name... Ox or Buffalo
You are conservative, methodical, and good with your hands. You abide by the laws of nature - patiently pushing the wheel of fate. Thus, you shall weave your destiny. A good lesson for mighty Oxen is to strive to overcome a judgmental nature that keeps them from getting close to others. If they can learn to value their own good qualities, they'll have more room in their hearts to invite others in.

FEBRUARY

Chinese Name... Hu
English Name... Tiger
You have a tendency to get carried away and be stubborn about what you think is right; often seen as a "Hothead" or rebel. Magnetic and self-possessed, Tigers are born leaders. All the world is your stage. You set new trails ablaze; You seek the unattainable, and try the untried. A lesson that Tigers would be well-served to learn is "moderation in all things." Once these cats can find their center and direct their considerable energies toward worthwhile endeavors, they will accomplish much.

MARCH

Chinese Name... T'u
English Name... Hare or Rabbit
The rabbit is extremely popular and has a wide circle of family and friends. You are in tune with the pulse of the universe. In your quiet and solitude, you hear the melodies of the soul. What Rabbits need most is a stronger sense of self-worth and the security that comes with it. Their discerning natures, coupled with some hard-won assertiveness, will help these happy creatures go far.

APRIL

Chinese Name... Lung
English Name... Dragon
Full of vitality and enthusiasm, the Dragon is a popular & powerful individual, even with the reputation of being foolhardy and a "big mouth" at times. You are giving, intelligent, and tenacious, and know exactly what you want and are determined to get it. Your presence disperses dark clouds. You have been chosen to tame the Fates. If Dragons can learn to balance their quest for success with an appreciation for the little things, their life will be more than worthwhile.

MAY

Chinese Name... She
English Name... Snake
Rich in wisdom and charm, you are romantic and deep thinking and your intuition guides you strongly. Avoid procrastination and your stingy attitude towards money. Yours is the wisdom of the ages. You hold the key to the mysteries of life. Snakes must try to learn humility and to develop a stronger sense of self. Once Snakes realize that confidence comes from within, they will finally be comfortable in their own skin.

JUNE

Chinese Name... Ma
English Name... Horse
Your capacity for hard work is amazing. You have a sharp wit and a scintillating presence. You run unimpeded through virgin paths. Your spirit unconquered - Your soul forever free. Horses crave love and intimacy, which is a double-edged sword since it often leads them to feel trapped. Once they find some peace within themselves, they can curb their wandering tendencies and learn to appreciate what's in their own backyard.

JULY

Chinese Name... Yang
English Name... Goat, Ram or Sheep
You are elegant and artistic but the first to complain about things. You might make a great craftsperson or artisan, or perhaps a teacher of New Age studies -- any occupation that allows your mind the full range of freedom. You are nature's special child. You trust and are rewarded by trust. Goats would be well-served by learning to relax and let others run the show from time to time.

AUGUST

Chinese Name... Hou
English Name... Monkey
Because of your extraordinary nature and magnetic personality, you are always well-liked. Your heart's filled with potent magic that could cast a hundred spells. You are put together for your own pleasure. Monkey's world will be more complete once it realizes the world doesn't revolve just around it.

SEPTEMBER

Chinese Name... Chi'
English Name... Rooster or Chicken
The Rooster is a hard worker; shrewd and definite in decision making, often speaking his mind. You thrive by clockwork and precision. In your unending quest for perfection all things will be restored to their rightful place. Rooster would also do well to learn to adopt the philosophy of "live and let live"; perhaps an appeal to the Rooster's logic -- that it's inefficient to waste time nagging others -- will help roosters learn to let others be whomever and however they are.

OCTOBER

Chinese Name... Kou
English Name... Dog
The Dog will never let you down. You are the protector of justice; Equality - your sole friend. Life without honor is life in vain. You make a wonderful, discreet and loyal friend and are an excellent listener. Dogs need to work on controlling their irrational worries and would also be well-served to relax their mile-high standards, which can sometimes wind up alienating the ones they love.

NOVEMBER

Chinese Name... Chi
English Name... Pig or Boar
You are sincere, tolerant, and honest, but by expecting the same from others, you can be incredibly naive. With innocence and faith, you walk in Love's protective light. By giving of yourself freely, you are richer and twice blest. Pigs would do well to realize that there's more to life than being needed. When they open up their world to a diverse group of people, they will truly bloom!