Citizendia
Your Ad Here

Astrology
Background
History of astrology
History of astronomy
Astrology and astronomy
Traditions
Babylonian astrology
Arab and Persian astrology
Chinese astrology
Hellenistic astrology
Indian astrology
Sidereal astrology
Western astrology
More...
Branches of
horoscopic astrology
Natal astrology
Electional astrology
Horary astrology
Mundane astrology
More...
Categories
Astrologers
Astrological texts
Astrological writers
Astrology Portal
This box: view • talk • edit

Astrological signs represent twelve equal segments or divisions of the zodiac. Astrology (from Greek grc ἄστρον astron, "constellation star" and grc -λογία -logia) is a group of Systems The history of Astrology encompasses a great span of human history and many cultures Astronomy is the oldest of the Natural sciences dating back to antiquity, with its origins in the religious, Mythological, and Astrological Astrology and astronomy are historically one and the same discipline ( Latin: astrologia) and were only gradually recognized as separate in western In Babylonia as well as in Assyria as a direct offshoot of Babylonian culture (or as we might also term it "Euphratean" culture Astrology takes its Persian Astrology has its roots in the Zend-Avesta parts of which are very similar to the Rig Veda The Chinese Zodiac is a 12 year cycle Each year of the 12 year cycle is named after one of the original 12 animals Hellenistic astrology is a tradition of Horoscopic astrology that was developed and practiced in Hellenistic Egypt and the Mediterranean, whose Jyotiṣa ( Sanskrit jyotiṣa, from jyótis- "light heavenly body" also spelled Jyotish and Jyotisha in English Sidereal astrology is the system of Astrology used by some Western and all Jyotish astrologers who base their interpretation around the use of the Western astrology is the system of Astrology most popular in Western countries This is an incomplete list of the different traditions types systems methods applications and branches of Astrology. Horoscopic astrology is a form of Astrology which uses a Horoscope, a visual representation of the heavens for a specific moment in time in order to interpret the Natal astrology, also known as genethliacal astrology, is the system of Astrology based upon the concept that each individual's personality or path in life can Electional astrology is a branch found in most systems of astrology Horary astrology is an ancient branch of Horoscopic astrology by which an astrologer attempts to answer a question by constructing a Horoscope for the exact time Mundane astrology is the application of Astrology to world affairs and world events taking its name from the Latin word Mundus, meaning "the This is an incomplete list of the different traditions types systems methods applications and branches of Astrology. Zodiac denotes an annual cycle of twelve stations along the Ecliptic, the apparent path of the sun across the heavens through the Constellations that divide the ecliptic According to astrological beliefs, 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. Astrology (from Greek grc ἄστρον astron, "constellation star" and grc -λογία -logia) is a group of Systems Macrocosm and microcosm is an ancient Greek schema of seeing the same patterns reproduced in all levels of the Cosmos, from the largest scale (macrocosm or universe-level [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. Western astrology is the system of Astrology most popular in Western countries Jyotiṣa ( Sanskrit jyotiṣa, from jyótis- "light heavenly body" also spelled Jyotish and Jyotisha in English The Chinese Zodiac is a 12 year cycle Each year of the 12 year cycle is named after one of the original 12 animals

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. Planets in astrology have a meaning different from the modern astronomical understanding of what a planet is. 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 ascendant ( or As) or rising sign, is the zodiacal sign and degree that was ascending on the eastern horizon at the specific time and location of an

Contents

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 Dates Indian Sign Element Chinese Sign Trine
Aries Fire March 21 - April 19 Mesha Tejas (fire) Dragon (5) 1st
Taurus Earth April 20 - May 20 Vrishabha Prithivi (earth) Snake (6) 2nd
Gemini Air May 21 - June 20 Mithuna Vayu (air) Horse (7) 3rd
Cancer Water June 21 - July 22 Karka Jala (water) Sheep (8) 4th
Leo Fire July 23 - August 22 Simha Tejas (fire) Monkey (9) 1st
Virgo Earth August 23 - September 22 Kanya Prithivi (earth) Rooster (10) 2nd
Libra Air September 23 - October 22 Tula Vayu (air) Dog (11) 3rd
Scorpio Water October 23 - November 21 Vrishchika Jala (water) Pig (12) 4th
Sagittarius Fire November 22 - December 21 Dhanus Tejas (fire) Rat (1) 1st
Capricorn Earth December 22 - January 19 Makara Prithivi (earth) Ox (2) 2nd
Aquarius Air January 20 - February 18 Kumbha Vayu (air) Tiger (3) 3rd
Pisces Water February 19 - March 20 Meena Jala (water) Rabbit (4) 4th

]]. Aries, the ram, is the first Astrological sign in the Zodiac. Mesha was a 9th Century BCE King of Moab, a strip of hilly land in present-day Jordan, which lay north of Edom, across the Dead Sea from The Dragon ( 龍) is the only mythical creature in the Chinese zodiac Taurus is the second Astrological sign in the Zodiac, originating from the constellation of Taurus. Prithvi ( Sanskrit: pṛthvī, also pṛthivī) is the Hindu Earth and Mother Goddess. The Snake ( 蛇) (also known as the Serpent) is one of the 12-year cycle of animals which appear in the Chinese zodiac related to the Chinese Gemini is the third Astrological sign in the Zodiac, originating from the constellation of Gemini. Maithuna is a Sanskrit term used in Tantra most often translated as sexual union in a ritual context In Hinduism Vayu ( Sanskrit: वायु, IAST: Vāyu Malay: Bayu Thai: Phra Pai is a primary deity the father of The Horse ( 馬) is the seventh of the 12 animals which appear in the Chinese zodiac related to the Chinese calendar. Cancer is the fourth Astrological sign in the Zodiac, originating from the constellation of Cancer. The Sheep ( 羊) (also known as Goat or Ram) is the eighth sign of the 12-year cycle of animals which appear in the Chinese zodiac Leo is the fifth Astrological sign of the Zodiac, originating from the constellation of Leo. Singh (सिंह sinh, ਸਿੰਘ singh, સિંહ sinh) is derived from the Sanskrit word Siṃha meaning " The Monkey ( 猴) is one of the 12-year cycle of Animals which appear in the Chinese zodiac related to the Chinese calendar. Virgo is the sixth Astrological sign in the Zodiac, originating from the constellation of Virgo. The Kanya Astrology From India September 17 to October 171st hora the turtle kurna2nd hora the beesensitive body parts liver lower abdomenmetal mercuryThe The Rooster ( 酉) is one of the 12-year cycle of animals which appear in the Chinese zodiac related to the Chinese calendar. Libra is the seventh Astrological sign in the Zodiac, originating from the constellation of Libra. The Dog ( 狗) is one of the 12-year cycle of animals which appear in the Chinese zodiac related to the Chinese calendar. Scorpio is the eighth Astrological sign in the Zodiac, originating from the constellation of Scorpius. Hai ( 亥) is the twelfth sign of the Earthly Branches. Its animal representation is the Boar ( 豬) Sagittarius is the ninth Astrological sign in the Zodiac, originating from the constellation of Sagittarius. Capricorn is the tenth Astrological sign in the Zodiac, originating from the constellation of Capricornus. The Ox ( 牛) is one of the 12-year cycle of animals which appear in the Chinese zodiac related to the Chinese calendar. Aquarius is the eleventh Astrological sign in the Zodiac, originating from the constellation Aquarius. Kumbha ( Sanskrit: कुम्भ that is a pot a jar or a pitcher in the context of Hinduism and Hindu mythology, is symbolic of the womb The Tiger ( 虎) associated with good fortune power and royalty is viewed with both fear and respect Pisces is the twelfth Astrological sign in the Zodiac, which originates from the Pisces constellation. Meena Durairaj ( Tamil: மீனா is one of the most successful actresses in South Indian cinema The Rabbit ( 兔) is the fourth animal in the 12-year cycle of the Chinese zodiac. [2]


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 parentheses 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). Fire has been an important part of many cultures and religions from pre-history to modern day and was vital to the development of civilization Earth, home and origin of humanity has often been worshipped in its own right with its own unique spiritual tradition In traditional cultures air is often seen as a universal power or pure substance Water has been important to all peoples of the earth and it is rich in spiritual tradition Sanskrit (sa संस्कृता वाक् saṃskṛtā vāk, for short sa संस्कृतम् saṃskṛtam) is a historical 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. In traditional Chinese philosophy, Wood is classified as one of the Wu xing ( or the Five Elements, also translated as five phases In traditional Chinese philosophy, Metal is classified as one of the Wu xing ( or the Five Elements, also translated as five phases 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. Zodiac denotes an annual cycle of twelve stations along the Ecliptic, the apparent path of the sun across the heavens through the Constellations that divide the ecliptic The Chinese lunar or month signs are based on the Chinese agricultural calendar [3] of Solar terms and straddle the two other traditions, overlapping each one by about two weeks. A solar term is one of 24 points in traditional East Asian Lunisolar calendars that matches a particular astronomical event or signifies some natural phenomenon 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 Chinese sexagenary cycle ( is a cyclic numeral system of 60 combinations of the two basic cycles the ten Heavenly Stems (天干 tiāngān

The zodiac

European zodiac signs, 16th century, medieval woodcuts
European zodiac signs, 16th century, medieval woodcuts
Main article: zodiac

In Western, and (via Indo-Greek transmission in the 2nd and 1st centuries BCE (some believe it otherwise)) Indian, astrology, the zodiac divides the ecliptic (the apparent path of the Sun through the heavens) into twelve astrological signs of equal length. For the origins of the technique and non-artistic use see Woodblock printing; for the related technique invented in the 18th century see Wood engraving Zodiac denotes an annual cycle of twelve stations along the Ecliptic, the apparent path of the sun across the heavens through the Constellations that divide the ecliptic Western astrology is the system of Astrology most popular in Western countries The Indo-Greek Kingdom (or sometimes Graeco-Indian Kingdom) covered various parts of the northwest and northern Indian subcontinent during the last two centuries Jyotiṣa ( Sanskrit jyotiṣa, from jyótis- "light heavenly body" also spelled Jyotish and Jyotisha in English Astrology (from Greek grc ἄστρον astron, "constellation star" and grc -λογία -logia) is a group of Systems Zodiac denotes an annual cycle of twelve stations along the Ecliptic, the apparent path of the sun across the heavens through the Constellations that divide the ecliptic The Sun (Sol is the Star at the center of the Solar System.

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. Zodiac denotes an annual cycle of twelve stations along the Ecliptic, the apparent path of the sun across the heavens through the Constellations that divide the ecliptic An equinox is the event of the Sun passing over the Earth's equator in its annual cycle The ecliptic is the apparent path that the Sun traces out in the sky during the year The celestial equator is a Great circle on the imaginary Celestial sphere, in the same plane as the Earth 's Equator. An equinox is the event of the Sun passing over the Earth's equator in its annual cycle 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. In common usage a constellation is a group of celestial bodies that are connected together in some arrangement typically stars to form a visible figure or picture In Astronomy, Precession refers to the movement of the rotational axis of a body such as a planet with respect to Inertial space.

Western sidereal astrology and 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. Sidereal astrology is the system of Astrology used by some Western and all Jyotish astrologers who base their interpretation around the use of the Jyotiṣa ( Sanskrit jyotiṣa, from jyótis- "light heavenly body" also spelled Jyotish and Jyotisha in English

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). In Astrology, an aspect is an Angle the planets make to each other in the horoscope and also to the ascendant midheaven descendant and nadir Most horoscopic traditions of astrology systems divide the Horoscope into a number (usually twelve of houses whose positions depend on time and location rather 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). Many ancient philosophies used a set of archetypal classical "elements" to explain patterns in Nature. It is also associated with an area of concern: personal, social, or universal.

Zodiac symbolism

Main article: Astrological symbols
The symbols used in Western astrology to represent the astrological signs
The symbols used in Western astrology to represent the astrological signs

This table[4] shows the zodiac names in Latin with their English translation. Astrological symbols are images used in various astrological systems to denote relevant objects 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 Two Fish Water Mutable

The twelve signs

The following are the characteristics of the Western Zodiac signs as understood by astrologers: [5] 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. In Astrology, a horoscope is a chart or diagram representing the positions of the Sun Moon planets the Astrological aspects, and sensitive angles In Natal astrology, a natal chart is a Horoscope /astrological chart drawn for the exact time of an individual's birth at a particular place on Earth [6]













The four elements

Main article: 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. In Astrology, a triplicity is a group of three signs belonging to the same element. Many ancient philosophies used a set of archetypal classical "elements" to explain patterns in Nature. ) [20] Fire and Air signs are positive or extrovert, masculine signs; while Water and Earth signs are negative, introvert, feminine signs. In astrology, a positive, diurnal or masculine sign refers to any of the six odd-numbered signs of the Zodiac: Aries, Gemini The trait of Extraversion-Introversion is a central dimension of human personality. In astrology, a negative, receptive, nocturnal, passive or feminine sign refers to any of the six even-numbered signs of the The trait of Extraversion-Introversion is a central dimension of human personality.


In various belief systems, four is considered an earthly number, there being four elements. Water, Air, Fire, and Earth. Three is considered a divine number, and there are three qualities: Cardinal, Fixed, and Mutable. Three plus four equals seven, a number often signifying the union of heaven and earth and the deliverance of our people. [22]

The Three Qualities

The Qualities assign the Signs into Quadruplicities, three groups of four. [23] 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.

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. [25]

Planetary rulerships

The symbols used in Western astrology to represent the astrological planets
The symbols used in Western astrology to represent the astrological planets

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. The history of Astrology encompasses a great span of human history and many cultures A planet, as defined by the International Astronomical Union (IAU is a celestial body Orbiting a Star or stellar remnant that is Astrology (from Greek grc ἄστρον astron, "constellation star" and grc -λογία -logia) is a group of Systems A planet, as defined by the International Astronomical Union (IAU is a celestial body Orbiting a Star or stellar remnant that is 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). Aries, the ram, is the first Astrological sign in the Zodiac. Taurus is the second Astrological sign in the Zodiac, originating from the constellation of Taurus. The VENUS ( V ictoria E xperimental N etwork U nder the S ea project is a cabled sea floor observatory operated by the University Gemini is the third Astrological sign in the Zodiac, originating from the constellation of Gemini. Cancer is the fourth Astrological sign in the Zodiac, originating from the constellation of Cancer. Leo is the fifth Astrological sign of the Zodiac, originating from the constellation of Leo. The Sun (Sol is the Star at the center of the Solar System. Virgo is the sixth Astrological sign in the Zodiac, originating from the constellation of Virgo. Libra is the seventh Astrological sign in the Zodiac, originating from the constellation of Libra. The VENUS ( V ictoria E xperimental N etwork U nder the S ea project is a cabled sea floor observatory operated by the University Scorpio is the eighth Astrological sign in the Zodiac, originating from the constellation of Scorpius. Sagittarius is the ninth Astrological sign in the Zodiac, originating from the constellation of Sagittarius. Capricorn is the tenth Astrological sign in the Zodiac, originating from the constellation of Capricornus. Aquarius is the eleventh Astrological sign in the Zodiac, originating from the constellation Aquarius. Pisces is the twelfth Astrological sign in the Zodiac, which originates from the Pisces constellation. [27]

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). An astrologer practices one or more forms of Astrology. Typically an astrologer draws a Horoscope for the time of an event such as a person's birth and interprets Aquarius is the eleventh Astrological sign in the Zodiac, originating from the constellation Aquarius. Neptune ( English|AmE] ] is the eighth and farthest Planet from the Sun in the Solar System. Pisces is the twelfth Astrological sign in the Zodiac, which originates from the Pisces constellation. Scorpio is the eighth Astrological sign in the Zodiac, originating from the constellation of Scorpius. Some other astrologers believe that the dwarf planet Ceres may be the ruler of Virgo, while other group of modern astrologers acclaim that is the ruler of Taurus instead. Ceres (ˈsɪəriːz Virgo is the sixth Astrological sign in the Zodiac, originating from the constellation of Virgo. Taurus is the second Astrological sign in the Zodiac, originating from the constellation of Taurus. 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. Debate ( American English) or debating ( British English) is a formal method of interactive and position representational Argument. Alternatively, some astrologers use the former planets Pallas, Vesta, Juno and Hygiea in their delineations and rulerships, for example Vesta to Taurus and Pallas to Virgo. Asteroids are used in astrology in a similar way to the Planets Asteroids are planetoids that orbit the Sun between Mars and Jupiter

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. Hamburg (English, German: ˈhambʊɐk local pronunciation Low German / Low Saxon: Hamborg) is the second-largest city in Germany

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.

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. In Astrology, a triplicity is a group of three signs belonging to the same element. In Astrology, the terms or bounds refer to an Essential dignity in which unequal segments of every Astrological sign have internal rulerships In Astrology, a decan is the subdivision of a sign The concept of decans originated with the ancient Chaldeans when they divided the 360 degree circle of the In Astrology, essential dignity is the strength of a Planet or point's Zodiac position weighed by only that position by sign and degree or its Contemporary traditional astrologers like John Frawley or J Lee Lehman explain further on the concept of Essential Dignity. [29]

In addition to Essential dignity, the traditional astrologer considers Accidental dignity of planets. In Astrology, accidental dignity occurs when a Planet or other celestial body is posited in a house of its natural rulership. This is placement by house in the chart under examination. Most horoscopic traditions of astrology systems divide the Horoscope into a number (usually twelve of houses whose positions depend on time and location rather 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. [31]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:

Number Sanskrit Name Western Name Element
1 Meṣa "ram" Aries (Κριός "ram") Fire
2 Vṛṣabha "bull" Taurus (Ταύρος "bull") Earth
3 Mithuna "twins" Gemini (Δίδυμοι "twins") Air
4 Karka "crab" Cancer (Καρκίνος "crab") Water
5 Siṃha "lion" Leo (Λέων "lion") Fire
6 Kanyā "girl" Virgo (Παρθένος "virgin") Earth
7 Tula "balance" Libra (Ζυγός "balance") Air
8 Vṛścika "scorpion" Scorpio (Σκόρπειος "scorpion") Water
9 Dhanus "bow" Sagittarius (Τοξότης "archer") Fire
10 Makara "sea-monster" Capricorn (Αἰγόκερως "goat-horned") Earth
11 Kumbha "pitcher" Aquarius (Ὑδροχόος "water-pourer") Air
12 Mīna "fish" Pisces (Ἰχθείς "fish") Water


Nakshatras

Main article: Nakshatra

The twelve signs of the zodiac are not given the same prominence in Indian astrology that they are in the Western tradition. Jyotiṣa ( Sanskrit jyotiṣa, from jyótis- "light heavenly body" also spelled Jyotish and Jyotisha in English Jyotiṣa ( Sanskrit jyotiṣa, from jyótis- "light heavenly body" also spelled Jyotish and Jyotisha in English Tattva is a Sanskrit word meaning 'thatness' 'principle' 'reality' or 'truth' Aries, the ram, is the first Astrological sign in the Zodiac. Taurus is the second Astrological sign in the Zodiac, originating from the constellation of Taurus. Prithvi ( Sanskrit: pṛthvī, also pṛthivī) is the Hindu Earth and Mother Goddess. Gemini is the third Astrological sign in the Zodiac, originating from the constellation of Gemini. In Hinduism Vayu ( Sanskrit: वायु, IAST: Vāyu Malay: Bayu Thai: Phra Pai is a primary deity the father of Cancer is the fourth Astrological sign in the Zodiac, originating from the constellation of Cancer. Leo is the fifth Astrological sign of the Zodiac, originating from the constellation of Leo. Virgo is the sixth Astrological sign in the Zodiac, originating from the constellation of Virgo. Libra is the seventh Astrological sign in the Zodiac, originating from the constellation of Libra. Scorpio is the eighth Astrological sign in the Zodiac, originating from the constellation of Scorpius. Sagittarius is the ninth Astrological sign in the Zodiac, originating from the constellation of Sagittarius. Capricorn is the tenth Astrological sign in the Zodiac, originating from the constellation of Capricornus. Aquarius is the eleventh Astrological sign in the Zodiac, originating from the constellation Aquarius. Pisces is the twelfth Astrological sign in the Zodiac, which originates from the Pisces constellation. A nakshatra ( Devanagari: नक्षत्र or lunar mansion is one of the 27 or 28 divisions of the sky identified by the prominent star(s in them that the 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. "Veda" redirects here For other uses see Veda (disambiguation. 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 article: 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. The Chinese Zodiac is a 12 year cycle Each year of the 12 year cycle is named after one of the original 12 animals 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). The Chinese sexagenary cycle ( is a cyclic numeral system of 60 combinations of the two basic cycles the ten Heavenly Stems (天干 tiāngān In traditional Chinese philosophy, natural phenomena can be classified into the Wu Xing ( or the Five Phases, usually translated as five elements, In traditional Chinese philosophy, Wood is classified as one of the Wu xing ( or the Five Elements, also translated as five phases Fire has been an important part of many cultures and religions from pre-history to modern day and was vital to the development of civilization Earth, home and origin of humanity has often been worshipped in its own right with its own unique spiritual tradition In traditional Chinese philosophy, Metal is classified as one of the Wu xing ( or the Five Elements, also translated as five phases Water has been important to all peoples of the earth and it is rich in spiritual tradition

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.
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. According to one legend in the sixth century BC the Jade Emperor invited all the animals in creation to a race only twelve showed up the Rat Ox Tiger Rabbit Dragon Snake Horse Lamb Monkey 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 Earthly Branches ( or) provide one Chinese system for reckoning Time. The following are the twelve zodiac signs in order and their characteristics. [32]

  1. 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, 2008. The month of the Rat is Dec 7 - Jan 5, and the hours of the Rat are 11pm - 1am.
  2. 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. The Ox ( 牛) is one of the 12-year cycle of animals which appear in the Chinese zodiac related to the Chinese calendar. 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.
  3. 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. The Tiger ( 虎) associated with good fortune power and royalty is viewed with both fear and respect 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.
  4. 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. The Rabbit ( 兔) is the fourth animal in the 12-year cycle of the Chinese zodiac. 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.
  5. 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. The Dragon ( 龍) is the only mythical creature in the Chinese zodiac 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.
  6. 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. The Snake ( 蛇) (also known as the Serpent) is one of the 12-year cycle of animals which appear in the Chinese zodiac related to the Chinese 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.
  7. 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. The Horse ( 馬) is the seventh of the 12 animals which appear in the Chinese zodiac related to the Chinese calendar. 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.
  8. 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. The Sheep ( 羊) (also known as Goat or Ram) is the eighth sign of the 12-year cycle of animals which appear in the Chinese zodiac 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.
  9. 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. The Monkey ( 猴) is one of the 12-year cycle of Animals which appear in the Chinese zodiac related to the Chinese calendar. 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.
  10. 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. The Rooster ( 酉) is one of the 12-year cycle of animals which appear in the Chinese zodiac related to the Chinese calendar. 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.
  11. 戌 Dog (Yang, 3rd Trine, Fixed Element Metal): The Dog person is honest, intelligent, straightforward,popular, loyal, sense of justice and fair play, attractive, amiable, unpretentious, sociable, open-minded, idealistic, moralistic, practical, intelligent, affectionate, dogged. The Dog ( 狗) is one of the 12-year cycle of animals which appear in the Chinese zodiac related to the Chinese calendar. 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.
  12. 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. Hai ( 亥) is the twelfth sign of the Earthly Branches. Its animal representation is the Boar ( 豬) 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 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 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 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 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: [33]







The five elements operate together with the twelve animal signs in a sixty year calendar. The Chinese sexagenary cycle ( is a cyclic numeral system of 60 combinations of the two basic cycles the ten Heavenly Stems (天干 tiāngān The five elements appear in the calendar in both their yin and yang forms and are known as the ten heavenly stems. The ten Celestial Stems ( sometimes known as Heavenly Stems, are the elements of an ancient Chinese cyclic character Numeral system: Jia (甲 Yi (乙 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:

References

  1. ^ Jeff Mayo, Teach Yourself Astrology, p 35, Hodder and Stoughton, London, 1979
  2. ^ Psychicguild.com.
  3. ^ Theodora Lau, The Handbook of Chinese Horoscopes, pxxvii, Souvenir Press, New York, 2005
  4. ^ "Zodiac. " McGraw-Hill Encyclopedia of Science and Technology. The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc. , 2005. Answers. com 29 Nov. 2007. http://www.answers.com/topic/zodiac
  5. ^ 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
  6. ^ "Astrological sign. " Encyclopedia of Occultism and Parapsychology. The Gale Group, Inc, 2001. Answers. com 29 Nov. 2007. http://www.answers.com/topic/astrological-sign
  7. ^ Astrology.com.
  8. ^ Astrology.com.
  9. ^ Astrology.com.
  10. ^ Astrology.com.
  11. ^ Astrology.com.
  12. ^ Astrology.com.
  13. ^ Astrology.com.
  14. ^ Astrology.com.
  15. ^ Astrology.com.
  16. ^ Astrology.com.
  17. ^ Astrology.com.
  18. ^ Astrology.com.
  19. ^ "About the Twelve Zodiac Signs. " Artcharts 1996-2007. Artcharts. com 26 Nov. 2007. http://www.artcharts.com/learn_astrology/12signs.html
  20. ^ Robert Pelletier & Leonard Cataldo Ibid p 43, 1984; Maritha Pottenger, Ibid, pp 383 - 93, 1991
  21. ^ "Astrology and Numerology. " Michael McClain 1996-2007. Astrology-numerology. com 26 Nov. 2007. http://www.astrology-numerology.com/
  22. ^ "Astrology Zone with Susan Miller. " Susan Miller 1998-2007. astrologyzone. com 26 Nov. 2007. http://www.astrologyzone.com/
  23. ^ Robert Pelletier & Leonard Cataldo Ibid p 44 , 1984; Maritha Pottenger, Ibid, pp 383 - 93, 1991
  24. ^ "The Three Qualities: Cardinal, Fixed And Mutable . " Astrology Info 2007. astrology-info. com 25 Nov. 2007. http://www.astrology-info.com/qualities
  25. ^ “Introduction to Astrology”. Self Healing Australia. 26 Nov. 2007. http://www.self-healing.com.au/ASTRO/introast.html
  26. ^ "An Introduction to Astrology. " Spiritsingles. com 25 Nov. 2007. http://www.spiritsingles.com/Astrology/aboutAstrology.cfm
  27. ^ "Rulerships. " Carol Wills 2007. astrologynow. com 25 Nov. 2007. http://www.astrologynow.com/carolwillis/Rulerships.txt
  28. ^ “Glossary of Astrological Terms”. Logos, Asaa 1998-2004. 26 Nov 2007. http://logosastrology.dk/glossary.htm
  29. ^ “Glossary of Astrological Terms”. Logos, Asaa 1998-2004. 26 Nov 2007. http://logosastrology.dk/glossary.htm
  30. ^ “Glossary of Astrological Terms”. Logos, Asaa 1998-2004. 26 Nov 2007. http://logosastrology.dk/glossary.htm
  31. ^ “Accidental Dignity”. Astrological Dictionary 1998-2007. gotohoroscope. com. 26 Nov 2007. http://www.gotohoroscope.com/dictionary/astrological/5.html
  32. ^ 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
  33. ^ Theodora Lau, Ibid, ppxxx- xxxvi, 2005

See also

External links

Dictionary

astrological sign

-noun

  1. Any of twelve signs, corresponding to constellations, that are used as the basis of astrology
© 2009 citizendia.org; parts available under the terms of GNU Free Documentation License, from http://en.wikipedia.org
 Dapyx Software network: MP3 Explorer | Ebook Manager | Zenithic