Astrology.
Horoscopes.
A
most fascinating subject. Most people know their astrological sign, but
are seldom familiar with the actual personal characteristics associated
with the sign itself. In gaining further info and a clearer understanding
of the subject, you can gain many unique insights about yourself and others.
The following paragraphs will attempt to enlighten you on the subject
of astrology in general.
So
what then is astrology?
Astrology
is the study of cycles. The sun, moon, and planets move in their own time
and in their own space according to individual cycles. The earth and all
life upon its surface carries forward in complicated patterns that make
up the Grand Design of the cosmos. The Greeks studied and practiced this
enthusiastically. Some of the greatest thinkers in the history of mankind
did not at all think it unreasonable to study planetary cycles in order
to gain a better understanding of how mankind in general and people as
individuals, fit into the universal cosmos. The Greeks assembled the body
of knowledge upon which modern astrology is based. They applied their
advanced understanding of astronomy and mathematics to the descriptions
handed down from the astrologers/astronomers of ancient Egypt and Babylonia.
What
is meant by an astrological sign?
To
put it simply, when people refer to their astrological sign, they are
merely stating which sign of the zodiac the sun was in when they were
born.
So
why is the sun's position so important in astrology?
As
stars go with respect to size and brilliance, our sun is relatively small.
However, in the universe, it is fortunate for us that the earth unfailingly
continues to circle around this little spot of warmth and light. Without
it there would be no life. During the twelve months it takes to make one
complete orbit around the sun, the earth receives life-giving solar rays
from continually changing angles. This cyclical pattern produces the four
seasons. Birth, growth, maturity, and death; the cycle of the seasons
is ordained by the earth's relationship with the sun, and every individual
life upon its surface is in imitation of this pattern.
The
date when the sun leaves one sign and enters another varies by just a
day or two from month to month, occurring sometime between the 20th and
23rd. The astrological sign of those born during the one day when the
sun moves into the next sign is determined by the time they were born.
For example, people whose birth occurred on April 20th might be Aries,
while others born on the very same day will be Taurus if they came into
the world after the sun entered the new sign. Those born on or around
these dates are often said to be on the cusp. What this really means is
that they are not sure if the sun had entered another sign on the day
of their birth. The confusion can easily be remedied. Many calendars and
almanacs list the date as well as the time when the sun enters a new sign
each month.
Doesn't astrology recognize that we all share the same traits?
Astrology
reflects the principle that nothing in the universe is at once so simple
or so complicated as man himself, from the simple human traits inherent
in all humans at birth to the complexity of specific personality and behavior
patterns of a single individual. Desirable and undesirable characteristics
repeat themselves in the individuals of countless generations, appearing
only slightly altered by the history of changing circumstances. Specific
traits indicated as belonging to one astrological sign does not deny the
fact that people born in any of the other eleven signs also possess these
traits. What it means is that hundreds of years of recorded astrological
observations have shown that certain traits are more prominent in the
personality and temperament of those born in one sign than in another.
That is the reason, for example, that moodiness becomes a trait associated
with one sign or stubborness the hallmark of another.
On
what are the astrological sign descriptions based?
Some
traits are shared by certain signs. This can seem confusing unless you
understand how traits are classified. Astrology uses two general classifications
to explain how the same characteristic can be shared by different signs.
These two classifications also focus on the true nature of each sign as
they are distinct from each other. One classification is known as Elements
which divides the twelve signs into four groups: Fire signs, Earth signs,
Air signs and Water signs. The other classification is known as Qualities,
which divides the twelve signs into three groups: Cardinal signs, Fixed
signs, and Mutable signs.
Elements
Defining
characteristics in terms of Elements is based on whether a person's initial
(elementary) reaction to everything in life is physical, pragmatic, intellectual,
or emotional. An individual's first reaction to things is an instantaneous
process. Describing it as though it occurs in slow motion makes it easier
for us to understand how one individual's primary reactions may differ
from another's, and how much the tendency of these responses influences
the way we think and the things we do.
The
first element is Fire, represented by the signs Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius.
For these people, the first reaction to everything is a physical one.
They are the ones most likely to "shoot first and ask questions later."
Before they assess the practicality of their actions, before considering
the emotional consequences, and before intellectual perceptions have a
chance to impose control Fire sign people need to do something. The moment
their interest is aroused, they charge into battle unarmed. In their haste
to do something important details may be forgotten or disregarded. They
can be unmindful of how their careless actions may hurt or infringe on
the rights of others. The positive side of their animated natures is that
fire signs possess great courage. They are willing to take chances and
do things others would not attempt. Their accomplishments can be legendary
if they learn to channel their energy constructively into worthwhile endeavors
and develop the patience to complete the projects they initiate. Fire
sign people are the most physically active. Aries likes to be active simply
as a release of energy. Leo wants to get around in order to enjoy the
attention and sociable companionship of others. Sagittarius loves the
freedom that comes from being physically independent.
The
second element is Earth, represented by the signs Taurus, Virgo, and
Capricorn. These individuals are invariably of a practical nature and
seldom do anything without a purpose. Before taking action that might
be a waste of time, before allowing reason and logic to present all sides
of an issue (some of which may not be of direct benefit to them), and
before giving in to the sentimentality of emotions, Earth signs assess
everything in terms of their personal goals. They expect some tangible
reward or manifestation of gratefulness on the part of others in recognition
of their efforts. At times it is hard to convince Earth sign personalities
that everything cannot be measured in terms of its material worth. At
other times, the practical nature of the Earth sign is a valuable asset.
Their eye for value lets them see the worthiness of people as well as
things that may not be so readily apparent to others. They are remarkable
at discovering ways to conserve resources. They instinctively recognize
and enjoy the material comforts of life and don't mind expending energy
in that direction. Earth signs are not particularly motivated to do anything
until they find it expedient to do so. Taurus will doggedly pursue anything
that fills a basic need or desire. Virgo patiently tries to secure their
own needs through service and responsibility to others, though they are
not above using guilt as a weapon to get what they want. Capricorn will
forego temporary needs and desires. They are in it for the long haul.
No matter how long it takes to get there, their goals are met when they
are put in charge and can do whatever they like.
The
third element is Air, represented by the signs Gemini, Libra, and
Aquarius. These individuals have an intellectual orientation to everything.
Before taking action that might be unnecessary, before practicality distracts
their attention, and before emotionalism can blur the facts, Air sign
people focus their immediate attention on the available information in
order to form a complete and unbiased judgement. They get sidetracked
looking for some lesson to be learned. Attracted to all forms of education
and communication, they are adept at making objective decisions and impartial
judgments. Caught up in their intellectual approach however, they often
fail to realize that no matter how rich the world of imagination, there
is no substitute for experiencing the physical and emotional realities
of life. In personal relationships, they have to remember that high-mindedness
is no excuse for lack of sentiment or physical action. In practical matters,
Air signs must learn that what works in theory may not work in reality.
They are usually the quickest to acquire communicative skills. Gemini
wants to find out what is going on. Libra does not like to be alone and
therefore seeks the companionship of others. Aquarius, inherently intrigued
by people and society, wants to be where others are gathered.
The
fourth element is Water, represented by the signs Cancer, Scorpio,
and Pisces. Those born in a Water sign always lead with their hearts.
Before taking action that might cause anxiety, before practicality imposes
a limit on sentiment, and before intellectual reason offers irrefutable
evidence that their feelings are unjustified, Water sign people react
to everything on an emotional level. Feelings dominate their decisions.
They can retard their own growth and development by giving in to feelings
of self-pity or undue sentiment. On the other hand, when they allow intelligence
to curb sentimentality and sharpen intuitive faculties, they can be unerring
in their judgments. Emotionalism can raise them to singular heights of
inspiration and achievement and also plunge them into the depths of degradation
and despair. These personalities must learn to curb possessiveness and
emotional dependency. Water signs are the most sensitive. The emotional
environment in which they are raised plays a major role in determining
their emotional and mental health as adults. They tend to be shy and in
need of constant reassurance. Their willingness to do anything is largely
a matter of how they are feeling at the time. Cancer wants emotional satisfaction
through home and family. Scorpio seeks emotional satisfaction through
manipulation and control, and Pisces seeks emotional satisfaction on whatever
physical, spiritual, or creative level they can find.
Qualities.
Defining
characteristics in terms of Qualities is based on three basic attitudes
toward life. Does a person want to get things done, as do the Cardinal
sign personalities? Is a person too stubborn or fearful of changing the
status quo, as are the Fixed sign personalities? Or, is a person likely
to go along with the prevailing situation by adjusting to change, as are
the Mutable sign personalities?
The
Cardinal signs are Aries, Cancer, Libra, and Capricorn.
People
born in these signs are strong-willed and have a desire for accomplishment.
They are the doers, the movers and shakers in the world. Also known as
"executive" signs, Cardinal sign personalities like to be involved in
major projects and to take charge of whatever needs to be done.
The
Fixed signs are Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, and Aquarius.
These
personalities are cautious and tend to be extremely stubborn. Their opinions
and habits are not readily altered. They do not appreciate unexpected,
sudden, or imposed changes. The tenacity of these personalities is a valuable
asset in research or other areas where patience and stamina are required.
Their cautious nature prevents unnecessary waste of their time, talent,
and resources.
The
Mutable signs are Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, and Pisces.
These
individuals have remarkable ability to adapt to all kinds of situations,
making it easy for others to live and work with them. Their adaptability
makes Mutable sign people survivors. However, their willingness to constantly
adjust to the influence of other people's situations can seriously inhibit
the growth and development of their own talents and personalities.
Putting the Elements and Qualities Together.
Adding
the descriptive Elements and characteristic Qualities together is the
method that gives a unique personal profile to each of the astrological
signs.
Aries
is the Cardinal-Fire sign. Aries people need to keep physically busy.
They accomplish many things simply because of their restless energy. They
need to learn how to make constructive use of their energetic efforts.
The typical Aries urge is to take on more projects than can be done reasonably
well. Though others may find it difficult to physically keep pace, they
are attracted to the animation and spirit of Aries personalities.
Cancer
is the Cardinal-Water sign.
Cancerians get things done through the power of their emotional commitment.
Not only do they aggressively work to accomplish the goals inspired by
their own feelings, they also know how to appeal to the emotions of others.
By making other people feel like family members, Cancerians effectively
inspire others to help get projects accomplished. They have to learn how
to reach an emotional balance since they tend to be overly sensitive and
moody.
Libra
is the Cardinal-Air sign. Librans accomplish things because they intellectually
evaluate what needs to be done, and then they charm others into cooperating
with them to achieve the goal. By unselfishly sharing the success of accomplishment
with those who assisted, Librans continue to engender the cooperative
efforts of others. They have to learn how to deal with confrontations.
Fear of hurting others or avoidance of hostile situations can keep them
from pursuing their goals.
Capricorn
is the Cardinal-Earth sign. Capricorns are natural goal setters. They
willingly handle many tasks if it helps them get what they want. Many
things get accomplished simply because they happen to be part of Capricorn's
overall efforts to reach higher goals. They need definitive guidelines.
Rules and regulations provide structure they need for establishing the
pattern of their own actions. They must learn however, that the end never
justifies the means.
Taurus
is the Fixed-Earth sign. Taureans stubbornly cling to their own ideas
and habits, and may fail to take advantage of new ideas or situations
simply because they cannot see their practical use. They have to understand
that while tenacity and a stable temperament yield rewards in many endeavors,
tolerance and flexibility are the best assets when it comes to personal
relationships.
Leo
is the Fixed-Fire sign. Leos stubbornly cling to their pride. They
resent the indignity of altering their opinions or behavior in front of
or at the request of others. Their stubborn nature makes it hard for them
to accept that there is no virtue in giving what they want to give rather
than what may really be wanted or needed, and no reward in misguided loyalty
to those who are not worthy of it.
Scorpio
is the Fixed-Water sign.
Scorpios stubbornly cling to emotional attachments. They rarely forget
or forgive emotional rejection. They have to learn that jealousy and possessiveness
are self-defeating. Rechanneling negative feelings and experiences into
constructive activities benefits others as well as themselves. No other
sign has the emotional strength of Scorpio.
Aquarius
is the Fixed-Air sign. Aquarians are born looking for ideologies to
which they can stubbornly cling. They refuse to budge whenever an issue
involves what they believe to be a "matter of principle. " As in the case
of the Aquarian Abraham Lincoln, society greatly benefits when these principles
happen to be noble ones.
Gemini
is the Mutable-Air sign. Using their communicative skills, Geminis
adapt to any situation they encounter. However, they must learn to speak
with candor instead of simply repeating what others want to hear. Clever-tongued
Geminis develop the amazing ability to obscure the facts in their stimulating
and imaginative chatter.
Virgo
is the Mutable-Earth sign. Virgos adapt to different people and situations
by finding ways to make themselves useful. To hide their vulnerability,
they focus attention on what they're doing rather than who they are. To
deflect attention away from themselves, Virgos will also focus on other
people by praising their talents and virtues, or just as likely, by listing
their faulty behavior or personal defects.
Sagittarius
is the Mutable-Fire sign. Restless energy and the need for personal
independence keeps Sagittarians moving in many directions. They become
experts at adapting to whatever culture and clime happens to fit their
current interest. Always ready to travel for business or pleasure, and
sometimes because of an overwhelming urge to escape (either figuratively
or literally), they are all too willing to bypass the confinements of
responsibility and work.
Pisces
is the Mutable-Water sign. Pisceans adapt emotionally to the influence
of their environment. Often painfully shy, they are adept at imitating
the mannerisms of other people as a way of hiding their own personality.
Pisceans can too easily become victims of their considerable ability to
identify with the personality and problems of other people, since it severely
restricts the development of their own personality traits and talents.
Why don't some people seem to fit their astrological sign?
There
are two reasons why some people don't seem to fit the descriptive characteristics
of their astrological sign. In the first instance, they may not really
understand the entire astrological description of their sign and are basing
their opinion only on a few generalities. A more thorough explanation
often reveals that most individuals do demonstrate the inherent characteristics
of their sun sign. In the second instance, astrological interpretation
is based on knowing the complete horoscope of an individual which indicates
where all the celestial bodies were positioned at the time of birth. It
will reveal how strongly an individual exhibits the traits associated
with his or her sun sign. After the sun's sign, the most important position
is the sign in which the moon was located at birth. For example, let's
say at the time of birth the sun was in Aries. The moon may also be in
Aries at birth but it may just as easily be in any of the other eleven
astrological signs. The astrological sign position of the moon has an
important bearing on personality and temperament from an emotional point
of view. It describes how a person will emotionally handle the characteristics
and traits indicated by the position of the sun at birth. Many calendars
and almanacs list the daily lunar positions.
What
is the difference between astrological sign and horoscope?
As
previously explained, a person's astrological sign is determined simply
by the position of the sun at the time of birth. The horoscope, however,
is literally a map of the heavens showing the exact position of the sun,
moon, and planets. It is mathematically calculated using the exact date,
hour, and location of an individual's birth. Many people are born on the
same date but at a different hour. Many are born on the same date and
in the same hour, but not in the same place. An individual's horoscope
is calculated using all three of these variables. Every four-minute interval
produces a slightly different chart, and even twins are rarely born within
such a narrow space of time. The horoscope is indeed a unique chart, no
two individuals have the same one. This is the reason why an astrologer
can define an individual's nature and temperament in a most subtle and
personal manner.
We
certainly hope this introduction to the area of astrology has been of
help in your quest to learn more about yourself and the study of cycles.
Enjoy!
Astrologee.com
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