THE GODDESS AND MAGICK
Introduction to Astrology
Astrology sees mankind as being not only influenced by hereditary factors and the environment, but also by the state of our solar system at the moment of birth. The planets are regarded as basic life-forces, the tools we live by as well as the basis of our very substance. These planetary forces take on different forms, depending on their zodiacal position and the way they relate to one another.
The aspects formed between the planets describe these relationships, the positions of the planets in relation to the place of birth tell us of their expression in the spheres of life depicted by the astrological houses.
By interpreting the roles of these players (the planets) and their qualities (the elements, signs and houses) and creating a synthesis, astrology is able to present a complete and comprehensive picture of the person and his potential, based on the natal horoscope.
Astrological Charts - Overview
THE SUN
Our Sun Sign is the sign of the Zodiac the Sun was traveling through at our Birth. This is the most commonly known aspect of Astrology and what people mean when the ask "What's your Sign?". The Sun Sign in your birth chart is very important, it determines much about your individuality, your distinctive style and your drive to fulfill your goals in life. However, if you think of your Horoscope as a Portrait, the characteristics of your Sun Sign are just the first broad strokes the Artist lays on the canvas. Each of the other planets' positions in your chart add depth, detail and color to your individual nature.
THE MOON
The Moon represents your emotions and instincts and your unconscious mind. It has been said the the Sun signifies your individuality and the Moon signifies your personality. In essence, the Moon represents that part of you that tends to react before you have time to think.
THE ASCENDANT
Your Ascendant or Rising Sign is the sign that was rising at the time of your birth, that sign denotes your first experience as a separate human being. It is the part of you that characterizes the way you deal with others and how you interact with people. Your Ascendant is the sign that reflects your outward demeanor and therefore determines how the outside world looks at you.
MERCURY
Mercury is the planet of mental activity, communication and intellectual energy. Mercury rules over our intellect, perception and reason, memory, speaking and writing. Where Mercury is placed in our chart determines our style of communication, our particular type of intelligence.
VENUS
Venus is the planet of love and beauty. Venus rules over love affairs, art and beauty, adornment and decoration, the social graces, friendship, affection and harmony. Venus governs the higher emotions, it's greatest gift is the gift of happiness. The placement of Venus in your chart indicates how you relate to the opposite sex, but also how you relate to your own sex - whether you are popular and make friends easily. Venus also governs your desire for beauty, pleasure and for luxury in your environment.
MARS
Mars is the planet of physical energy, governing your sex drive, your forcefulness and your aggression. Mars in part of you that spurs you to action. Mars governs energy, boldness, the will the win and the ability to turn ideas into action. it signifies ambition and desire, courage and strength. Mars is the warrior within.
JUPITER
Jupiter is the planet of good luck, optimism, success and generosity. Jupiter brings joy to life. Jupiter's kingdom is luck, health and happiness, wealth and worldly good, power, education and high position. Jupiter rules over knowledge, higher learning, breadth of vision and honesty. It's influence bestows a willingness to partake of life wholeheartedly, gathering new experiences. Jupiter gathers knowledge and becomes the storyteller, spreading tales of wisdom to all the people.
SATURN
Saturn is the planet of responsibility and symbolizes the ethic of hard work. Saturn is the planet of diligence, self-control and limitation. It's domain is patience, stability, maturity and realism. It has been said that Saturn disciplines us until we learn to discipline ourselves. Saturn is the Celestial taskmaster, teaching us the lessons we must learn in life. Under Saturn's influence we achieve by overcoming obstacles and hardship, building character as we do.
URANUS
Uranus is the planet of change and originality, bringing sudden events and opportunities. It shocks, awakens and revolutionizes. Uranus is responsible for the flash of human genius that creates something new and unexpected, whether it be art or science. The Uranus part of our nature urges us towards sudden upheavals and swift, unexpected and unconventional choices. Uranus relates to our inner will and our secret power. Uranus is the first of the outer planets, which are considered "generational influences". Uranus, Neptune and Pluto are so far from the Sun that they travel slowly through the Zodiac, influencing whole generations as well as individuals.
NEPTUNE
Neptune is the planet of mystery and illusion; it's power is that of the imagination. Neptune is the planet of bewitchment, representing your dreams and your mystic qualities, idealism and spirituality. The positive side of Neptune's influence represents artistic imagination, dream, glamour, mystery and visions. The negative side is characterized by deception, confusion, addiction to drugs and alcohol, fraud, treachery and sham. This planet's position in your chart indicates what kind of ideals you have, how creative, psychic and visionary you are. An afflicted Neptune in one's chart can indicate an individual who cannot separate fantasy from reality.
PLUTO
(Scientists may argue whether Pluto is considered a planet or not - this does not change the energy of it's influence on our psyches and natures)
Pluto is the planet of death, rebirth and transformation. Pluto brings to light things hidden in the depths of your subconscious, releases your dormant forces and can cause your suppressed energies to suddenly erupt. Pluto's power has been likened to that of nuclear fission, which both destroys and creates. Pluto's power is felt in world events and great tides of history. It also has deep, personal meaning in your chart, governing the beginnings and endings in the phases of your life.