Rulerships, Exaltations, Detriments & Fall of Planets

Rulership:  The natural Planetary Sponsor-Director of a sign's energy focus.  This position allows the planet's potential to be delivered in its proper manner through the sign & psyche.

Detriment:  the sign opposite to the one it rules. The sign is  uncomfortable; a frustrated environment for the planet to express itself. 

Exaltation:  the sign that creates the most powerful complement for the planet’s energies.

Fall:  A sign opposite its exaltation. This is the weakest, least effective position for the planet to be in.
 

(One memory trick I use to remember this is that “The Exalted May Fall” if they abuse power.  I also think of “Research and Development {R & D}” for Rules and Detriments.)

NOTE: If a planet in the sign of its fall or detriment is placed in its natural house, or a house which corresponds to its sign of exaltation, then some of the weakness would be neutralized. The same principle applies also to planets found in their dignity and exaltation. The Sun exalted in Aries would be more challenged in the seventh house (natural house of Libra) or the eleventh house (natural house of Aquarius).

A planet is strengthened (dignified) if it falls within the sign that it rules. For example, the Moon in Cancer is considered "strong" (well-dignified). Seventeenth-century astrologer William Lilly compared rulership to a king on his throne, with considerable dignity. If a planet is in the sign opposite that which it rules, it is said to be weakened (detriment), for example, the moon in Capricorn.

In addition to Essential Dignity, the traditional astrologer considers the Accidental Dignity of planets. This is placement by the house in the chart under examination. Accidental dignity describes the planet's "ability to act". So we might have, for example, Moon in Cancer, dignified by rulership, is placed in the 12th house it would have little scope to express its good nature. The 12th is a cadent house as are the 3rd, 6th,  and 9th, and planets in these houses are considered weak or afflicted. On the other hand, Moon in the 1st, 4th, 7th, or 10th would be more able to act as these are Angular houses.

Planets in Succedent houses of the chart (2nd, 5th, 8th, 11th) are generally considered to be of medium ability to act. As well as Accidental Dignity, there is a range of Accidental Debilities, such as retrogradation, Under the Sun's Beams, Combust, and so forth.

Signs shown in parentheses show ancient rulerships. Pluto has not yet been firmly established as it is the most recent planet discovery. Sakoian and Acker’s The Astrologer’s Handbook lists Pluto in exaltation in Leo; this would put its fall in Aquarius.  Most likely, it rules Scorpio and gives dignity to Aries; its detriment is likely in Taurus.  Mars was the ancient ruler of Scorpio and therefore is somewhat dignified in Scorpio, and so on.

Some planets have dual rulership (as indicated).

Planet	Rulership	Detriment	Exaltation	Fall
Sun	Leo	Aquarius	Aries	Libra
Moon	Cancer	Capricorn	Taurus	Scorpio
Mercury	Gemini (Virgo)	Sagittarius (Pisces)	Aquarius	Leo
Venus	Taurus (Libra)	Scorpio (Aries)	Pisces	Virgo
Mars	Aries (Scorpio)	Libra (Taurus)	Capricorn	Cancer
Jupiter	Sagittarius (Pisces)	Gemini (Virgo)	Cancer	Capricorn
Saturn	Capricorn (Aquarius)	Cancer (Leo)	Libra	Aries
Uranus	Aquarius	Leo	Scorpio	Taurus
Neptune	Pisces	Virgo	Libra	Aquarius

Gustav Holst: "The Planets" (Op. 32)

Gustav Holst: The Planets Op. 32

Mars, the Bringer of War - Venus, the Bringer of Peace - Mercury, the Winged Messenger - Jupiter, the Bringer of Jollity - Saturn, the Bringer of Old Age - Uranus, the Magician - Neptune, the Mystic.

Holst called his piece "a series of mood pictures." He seemed to consider The Planets a progression of life. "Mars" perhaps serves as a rocky and tormenting beginning; it was written in 1914, and clearly forecasts the upcoming devastation of World War I. In contrast, the gentle restrains of "Venus" seems to provide an answer to "Mars" and the concept of Venus as "the bringer of peace" helps aid that claim. "Mercury" and its delightfully quick movements can be thought of as the messenger between our world and the other worlds. Perhaps "Jupiter" and its optimistic nature represents the "prime" of life, even with the overplayed central melody, which was later arranged to the words of "I vow to thee, my country."

"Saturn" can be viewed as indicative of Holst's later mature style, and also reflects the death of Holst's father. Through "Saturn" it can be said that old age is not always peaceful and happy. The movement may display the ongoing struggle for life against the odd supernatural forces. This notion may be somewhat outlandish, but the music seems to lend credence to this. 

"Saturn" is followed by "Uranus, the Magician," a quirky scherzo displaying a robust musical climax before the tranquility of the female choir in "Neptune" enchants the audience.

Gustav Holst - Neptune the Mystic

HOLST - Saturn from "The Planets Suite"

Gustav Holst - The Planets - Jupiter, the Bringer of Jollity

Gustav Holst - The Planets - Mars, the Bringer of War

Yes, this was used in the movie "Gladiator" to show the Roman army movement before battle.

Moon phases and astrological timing of actions

Using the moon's phases to work with schedules and timing of events is something that connects with everyone--if they're willing to watch and see the results. 

Using timing and the knowledge of when to take action on something is called electional astrology. As much as people laughed at it, Nancy Reagan was very serious about using timing in her husband's presidency. That's why he was sworn in during the early morning hours of his elected offices; she was using astrological information--and she did the same thing for his speeches and other presentations.She and President Reagan were not the only high-level people to use astrology for things like timing events, decisions, or other plans. So did financier J. P. Morgan, who was known to say about it, "Billionaires use astrology. Millionaires don't." (Financial astrological consultations are a huge part of the market and has been openly discussed by some of the bigger money managers.)*  

At the new moon, plans should be made: brainstorming, networking, designing a new project or endeavor.

* At the 1st quarter moon, plans should be implemented: now is the time to take action.

* At the full moon, plans should be realized: success or failure should be apparent.

*At the 4th quarter moon, plans should be concluded or corrections made.An eclipse works similarly, but both types are a positive reinforcement of a part of the psyche:

* Depending on the day and time in the year, a solar eclipse may show something about the individual's self-image, ego, and ability to be acknowledged or acclaimed for some endeavor or accomplishment. It reveals the better qualities of the individual.

* Depending on the day and time in the year, a lunar eclipse shows something about the individual's need for security, safety, and dealing with the public (and women in general).

That "blue moon" thing also comes up here: because it means that a "second" new moon has fallen in that month, it means that there is twice the opportunity to start a project, or to revive or jump-start a project that was delayed or never moved forward.

The Pleidian Astrology Wheel

You can find several messages and reasons for this image, but astrologically, I'm ALSO saying that knowledge of it has special origins and purposes.  I'll bet Dr. Sheldon Cooper knows it--and so does Raj.

Bazinga!

The Oriental Planet - the spiritual foundation of this lifetime

Mohan Koparkar, Ph.D., has this to say about the Oriental planet:
“The Oriental planet is the planet rising just before the sun in your chart. Find your sun in your natal chart and move clockwise to the first planet. That is your Oriental planet.    

 “The oriental planet represents the spiritual foundation of this particular life. It is what you must graduate from and go beyond. Areas associated with your Oriental planet have to be completed. There are certain minimum requirements that your Oriental planet demands of you.

“You can not leave this existence until the Oriental planet has performed its function. For your soul, which is the sun, to be known, to enjoy its completeness, your Oriental planet has to perform its duty, positively, negatively, or in any other way.”

 Michael R. Meyer at http://www.khaldea.com/planets/oriental_houses.shtml takes this into detail with each house:

 Guiding Planet in the Houses

The house of your birth chart (the section of space surrounding your birth) occupied by your Planet of Oriental Appearance provides insight into the particular area of human experience through which your innate skills, faculties, and aptitudes may be best realized.

Oriental Planet in the First House. The first house represents experiencing yourself as a unique individual. If your Skill Symbol is in this house, you may be an exemplar of your chosen profession a representative or ideal man or woman who has integrated the qualities and functions of the Skill Symbol into the fabric of personality. With Skill Symbol in the first house, you may tend to over-identify with what you do remember, you are more than a job description, no matter how well you fill it!

Oriental Planet in the Second House. You possess strong and highly productive skills and abilities which are apparent in all that you do. You may use your Skill Symbol very resourcefully for the acquisition of possessions and resources or as a means to acquire resources enabling you to pursue your real or personal interests and goals.

Oriental Planet in the Third House. Here the Skill Symbol may be used for accumulating or dispensing knowledge, and you may be more a general practitioner than a specialist. At times you may do well to remember that knowledge and information in themselves have no absolute value. Indeed, data and knowledge can produce destructive results when exploited by a mind lacking compassion and a broad frame of reference.

Oriental Planet in the Fourth House. The fourth house deals with personal integration, security, one's root power, and the home. You may best use your special skills and faculties in the areas of personal and cultural integration, and for securing a basis of operation.

Oriental Planet in the Fifth House. Whatever skills and aptitudes your Skill Symbol represents, they are well used in the area of creativity, self-expression, and gaining personal experience. With your Oriental Appearing Planet in the fifth house, you may find it leads you to risk-taking and speculation.

Oriental Planet in the Sixth House. Regardless of which planet figures as Skill Symbol, its location in the sixth house enables you to focus your special skills and faculties on critical situations. You may use your Skill Symbol for self-improvement and to resolve your own personal crises and the problems of others.

Oriental Planet in the Seventh House. With your Skill Symbol in the Seventh House, you work well in partnership and in direct contact with others. You may use your people skills either for your own benefit or to help others by playing the middleman or representative. You may need to remember that you are more than a social image and that others are not personal resources to be used.

Oriental Planet in the Eighth House. You are especially skillful at business and at sensing and using the energies generated and released by human relationships. Your skills and faculties may be well used in conducting happy, productive and mutually beneficial relationships. But in a negative way, the same faculties may be used for exploitation and for acquiring what you want.

Oriental Planet in the Ninth House. You may use your skills and faculties to better understand and formulate large ideas, concepts, and philosophical, social, scientific or religious systems. Individuals with Oriental Planet in the ninth house are often media savvy and use their skills to expand human horizons and understanding.

Oriental Planet in the Tenth House. You may best use your special skills and faculties to either advance your own interests in the social and professional worlds or to contribute new social ideals to the world-at-large. Your Skill Symbol may bring yours before the public eye. Once there, you may use your position and responsibility in the interest of public good, or to bask in the radiance of your own glory.

Oriental Planet in the Eleventh House. You can best use your special skills and faculties within the sphere of your social environment or group to either draw attention to yourself through a show of glitter or to dramatize the need for personal and social adjustments and improvements.

Oriental Planet in the Twelfth House. Whatever skills and faculties are represented by your Skill Symbol, you do well to focus them on "ultimates". You work well in private or performing research, and you may find a place in little-known, obscure, or abstract fields. In another sense, this configuration points to a situation where either big issues need to be neutralized through the Skill Symbol, or where your special skills and faculties may serve a more than personal purpose.

Lilith, the Temptation and Frustration of the Black Moon

     The temptation and frustration of Lilith, the Black Moon, is one overlooked by many astrologers, healers, and those who seek answers about psychology, astrology, and the psyche.  This is not a part of the chart that is eagerly sought: by her own nature, Lilith denies, disables, and thwarts the most earnest and sincere intentions and pursuits.  Her role is not one that is welcomed:  she represents all that we find just beyond our grasp, even though we try relentlessly to overcome the obstacles and find satisfaction.  Lilith, therefore, shows us what we can NOT have, no matter how badly we desire it.  I STRONGLY urge anyone to consult with me or a psychological astrologer who understands the value and importance of this elusive and mysterious object--for she wins every time, no matter how much we try and change or chance the odds. 

      Instead, she offers an option--what I call "The Al Gore Award" (for the former Vice President's failed efforts to secure the vote for president in 2000.  The pain and anguish of his loss showed in his eyes for years, but he worked through his disappointment and won a Nobel prize and the attention of the world regarding climate change--which certainly has been brought to the global foreground regardless of political affiliation.)  In this way, Lilith offers us a second-place prize:  that of NOT being "a winner" in the respective house and sign placement she is located.

      In doing this, Lilith may be found to take on the role of an ambassador of Saturn:  limiting, restricting, frustrating, and withholding the goals that we set for ourselves--and forcing us instead to be satisfied with the lesser results that occur.  In this way, she prunes the ego of the gaudiness with which we would adorn ourselves, and makes us find wholeness in a smaller way rather than what we had been striving to accomplish.

      In the first house, she can hobble and restrict both the quality and measure of personality and appearance:  physical limitation and a thwarting of receptivity from society through denial of the way the soul presents itself.  In the second, income and self-esteem can be beaten back again and again until the soul learns to accept less and be grateful for what it possesses; in the 3rd, relationships with siblings, speech and communications, and education can be dangled overhead like a carrot beyond reach to a draft animal; in the 4th, a joyful and rewarding home life and dwelling can be taken away again and again until the soul learns to live simply and frugally, thankful for a roof and shelter; in the 5th, the longing for parenthood and romance can be denied, or a fruitful outlet for one's creative urges may go unrecognized.

      In the 6th, Lilith may bestow a dull and boring work environment without recognition for accomplishment or advancement, along with poor health that saps one's vitality. In the 7th, a happy marriage partner can be but a dream for a lonely soul, and business associates can be hard-boiled and demanding; in the 8th, sexual needs can go unquenched, and inheritances can be stolen away; in the 9th, religious dogma and restrictive philosophical values can hinder one's education and opportunity to go beyond the confines of community and home.

     In the 10th, Lilith can produce a barrage of setbacks for career promotions and recognition for achievements that go instead to others; parents of either gender and authority figures may be aloof and withdrawn from the generosity of affection; in the 11th, friends may turn into enemies without warning, or the soul may lack social graces that allow for congenial mingling among peers, and in the 12th, Lilith can haunt the soul with substance abuses, neuroses and unfounded fears, and incarceration in hospitals or prisons which carve up years of life.

    Despite the doom-and-gloom of Lilith, she offers us hope:  not everyone is meant to be in the spotlight of attention; not every soul is destined to be a glamorous celebrity or shining star in their respective field or endeavor.  Instead, try and be content with the little things in life that make the difference in the ways that the soul helps and benefits the lives of others.  In this manner, Lilith then rewards the soul with treasures laid up in heaven rather than squandered on Earth--and the ego learns humbleness in order to free itself from the chains that it has created on its own.

(C) MDLOP8 2011

Planetary placements in charts and the psyche

Chart patterns can also indicate personality trends within the psyche.  The key here is the dispersal of planets in the houses (wedges).

Psyche in signs

Astrologically, Psyche represents how we respond romantically to the idea of Love, or how we Idealize it through someone. 
(Also see http://psyast.blogspot.com/search/label/Psyche%20and%20Eros)

Psyche Sign is Aries

The native likes the thrill of someone falling madly in love with and pursuing them at all costs. You enjoy feeling valued by someone and find security in hearing this from your lover/partner. 

Psyche Sign is Taurus

This position is the embodiment of sexuality. You want others to find you attractive. You are also attracted to people who give gifts of love.

Psyche Sign is Gemini

You are drawn to powerful personalities who are able to switch between staying home and painting the town. You also enjoy mates who challenge your intellect. 

Psyche Sign is Cancer

You tend to take on nurturing or motherly roles, not necessarily with everyone, but definitely with your lover/partner. You will go out of your way to make a partner happy. 

Psyche Sign is Leo

You are able to discern the best in people and bring that out. You are attracted to charming, good-looking people. You also have a tendency to project onto your partner the way you want to be. 

Your Psyche Sign is Virgo

You show your affection to someone who accepts them unconditionally. You are usually concerned about what the lover can bring to the table. Once smitten, you are very generous of your time and material resources. 

Psyche Sign is Libra

You are fascinated by partners with striking looks, possibly to the detriment of other aspects, in order to indulge the fantasy of the relationship. Usually you get wise to this tendency in due time. You treat everyone around you lavishly.

Psyche Sign is Scorpio

You tend to be secretive about your true feelings, including sexual feelings. You also tend to be reserved when expressing yourself until you feel absolutely comfortable. Once committed, you take the relationship very seriously and will do anything to keep it going. 

Psyche Sign is Sagittarius

You are attracted to someone worldly, ethnically diverse, philosophically-oriented, and free-spirited. You are able to give others the freedom to be who they really are.

Psyche Sign is Capricorn

You are attracted to emotionally mature and stable individuals who can also provide an outlet for your romantic fantasy. Sexual intimacy is a longing, and once fulfilled, you feel like you have everything in life.

Psyche Sign is Aquarius

You like to put a little bubble around yourself and your lover and bask in the fulfillment of your hopes, wishes, and dreams. You like to be acknowledged for your unique and special qualities and do not like to compete for affection. 

Your Psyche Sign is Pisces

You seek partners who can express the utmost love and adoration and partners who can help you escape a routine life. You tend to attract attention through illnesses if your needs are not being met to your fullest expectation.

Quadrant emphasis on the psyche

Obviously, the quadrants of a chart (when overloaded with planetary placements) can REALLY cue in on facets of the psyche.  (I can attest from living with someone who is very 1st quarter-weighted (and very much Aries-Taurus-Gemini) that she is indeed VERY much like the qualities outlined.)

Hemisphere influences on chart dynamics Part 1

I think this objective is self-explanatory:  some charts are "heavy-weighted" on a particular hemisphere.  This reflects a key component of the personality/psyche.  Not EVERY chart has this; a person with a particular emphasis to a hemisphere would obviously be focused in life on those areas (houses; life experiences) particular to that placement.

The crucial degrees and critical 29th degree marker

 Critical Degrees in Astrology:

Classic critical degrees are 0, 13, and 26 degrees of the cardinal signs (Aries, Cancer, Libra, and Capricorn); 8-9 and 21-22 degrees of fixed signs (Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, and Aquarius); and 4 and 17 degrees of mutable signs (Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, and Pisces). These are considered sensitive, and sometimes strengthening, points. If a natal planet is found in a critical degree, that planet is emphasized and assumes more power in the life of the native due to its placement.

0/13/26 Cardinal

8/9/21/22 Fixed

4/17/ Mutable 
Many astrologers consider 0 and 29 degrees of any sign critical degrees as well. The 0 and 29 degrees are more crisis-oriented points, especially in predictive work. 

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The 29th degree of a sign is one to be recognized as a crucial point to consider.  In my own teacher's view, the 29th degree was a critical marker of intense action, activity, and energy:  "on the razor's edge" was how it was described.  It was the indication of an extreme nature and release, for better or worse--but often an over-dramatic outlet for that sign, especially when coupled with a planet. 

     There was only one time, he said, when a 29-degree point was favored:  the last day of Aries.  A person born on this day (and one of my "older sisters" is April 19) is someone who can manifest goals and objectives at the last critical minute and therefore create results under extreme deadlines.

       The following are other views of the 29th degree.  I should note in numerology that a person born on the 29th day of the month is said to be fated for heavy-duty Life Experiences that their soul has otherwise avoided learning.  Michael Jackson, U.S. President John F. Kennedy, and U.S. Senator and presidential candidate John McCain were all born on the 29th.

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29th degree

     Also known as the Anaretic Degree, defective vision is noted with this degree. It’s the weakest point in the sign it represents; tired and often showing more of the next sign than the sign it’s in. The planet and house placement is always getting ready to make a change and the 29^th degree adds a decision-making complication to the house. Able to see both sides of an issue, there is oscillation between one view and the other and a struggle to make any decision at all. Decisions are put off or there is a continuous re-evaluation due to new information. At the end of his rope, the individual may make a quick decision, simply to do something, but this takes on the characteristic of Too Much or Too Little. Metaphorically, he may dive into the pool before checking to see if it has water.
 

     A placement of a planet in the 29th degree in a house automatically makes the ability to manifest the characteristics of that house structure more fuzzy, and the interaction with the people of that house more vague and less decisive. Sun in the 29th degree often causes a major career change in mid life. This position can slow down career success because of poor decision-making skills. Women with their Sun in a 29th degree have a tendency to marry men who are ineffectual in some way: trouble keeping a job, born followers, too passive, emotional problems. Again this is related to the concept of poor decision-making (both on the part of the woman and on the part of the husband). Disgraced Wall Street financier Bernie Madoff had Venus 29 Taurus in his career house. He was blinded by the love of money and what he could do with it.

     A 29th degree in a progressed chart often stimulates the characteristics, either positive or negative of the relationship, and a last fling jump for the characteristics of the sign, in the house that it is in. Saturn in 29th Capricorn is the degree of the workaholic. The individual can’t seem to get enough hard work. But s/he runs into obstacles in getting it, and often vacillates between working to death, and no work.

        If a natal planet is found at 29 degrees of any sign, also known as the Anaretic degree, there can be some real issues with decision-making in that part of the personality represented by the energies of the planet. The native may evaluate and re-evaluate situations before making a move one day, and the next day, jump into the action without listening to himself or herself! For example, if Mars is at 29 degrees, the native may devise many plans of actions, worry excessively about the possible actions and different routes to take, and then execute a spontaneous action that is contrary to the decision! Former president Donald Trump has Mars and the ascendant at 29 Leo.

      Someone with 29 degrees of Mercury may agonize over decisions in his/her life, and vacillates between talking too much and too little.
 

     Besides decision-making problems, vacillation, and jumping into situations blindly, the 29th degree is also associated with a sense of urgency. It's the last degree of the zodiac sign, and there can be a real sense of urgency surrounding the characteristics and associations of the particular sign.

     In progressions, when, for example, the Sun enters the 29th degree, the native's year can be crisis-oriented. If the Sun progresses to 29 degrees of Libra, for example, the sense of urgency and crisis can surround relationships.   Divorce or jumping into a new partnership rather blindly may be the result of this urgency.  (I personally experienced this when my progressed ascendant was 29 Libra.)  If the Sun progresses to 29 degrees of Virgo, a big change might be made in work. Generally, decisions made at the time of the 29th degree can be hasty. 

A new set of signs? "No!"

D'oh!  NO, you did NOT get a "new" astrological sign!  I don't care what the news services are saying!  Here's a comment that pretty much sums up what the fuss is all about.  And yes, BOTH ways are accurate:

Fans of the Zodiac have been bombarded with the unsettling news that their astrological sign may not be what they thought.

The horror of switching from Gemini to Taurus had people rushing to the Web for answers, sending searches for "zodiac signs" into the stratosphere.

So has your sign changed?  It all depends on what kind of astrology you follow. 

It may come as a surprise that there are different branches of astrology. A main Eastern form, for example, called Sidereal astrology, looks to the background stars, those famous constellations, as its guide.

Western astrology -- which uses the zodiac -- has its signs fixed to the seasons. Most Westerners, and all those horoscope pages we eagerly check, go by the zodiac. These signs follow what early astrologers called star signs, whose reference points are the tropics that form a ring around the earth. The zodiac is based on our relationship to the sun, not the stars.

The back story: About 2,000 years ago, the astrological signs and the astronomical ones were the same. But not anymore. The locations of the signs are based on the sun's location on the first day of spring. That location in the sky has slowly drifted westward because of something called "precession" -- the earth continually wobbles (a scientific term for a slight motion) every 26,000 years. Since the constellations were first identified, they have shifted some 30 degrees. Translation: The signs have slipped about a month westward, relative to the stars.

What this means to you: If you follow astrology that is linked to the constellations, your sign would go from say, a Gemini to a Taurus. You could even have a 13th sign, Ophiuchus, which you may have read about.

"It's a huge point of confusion for the public," says Bing Quock, assistant director of Morrison Planetarium at the California Academy of Sciences. For those who follow Western astrology, "Astrologers are not talking about the constellations at all. When an astrologer says the sun is in a certain sign, they're talking about the sign, the location relative to the equinox. They're not talking about the location of the constellations. "

In short, if you follow the Sidereal astrology, the Eastern branch, your sign may have shifted. (And most likely, no surprise to you at all: This news is hundreds of years old).

But for the rest of us, our horoscope, and our signs, are still the same.

Eros, the God of Love in Signs

 

Eros is a minor asteroid--but very useful when needed in charts to understand one's physical and passionate nature, especially when another chart is used in relationship comparison.

Eros in Aries.  These people instinctively and quickly become infatuated. Their sexual attractions are formed quickly and they get off on the sensations of the moment in an intense manner. These lovers may seem a little erratic to others, simply because their passions rise and fall so quickly. They are not as giving and emotional in their sexual expression, but they are passionate while it lasts. 


Eros in Aries people are attached to the sensations of the moment and may see their partner as an object, or an extension of themselves. They often prefer to do the pursuing in relationships and may be addicted to the conquest.

Eros in Taurus. These are highly sensual lovers who may seek to own their partners. Sexual possessiveness is often an issue with these lovers, and, unlike Eros in Aries, competition is not a turn-on. These lovers can be somewhat primitive in their desires and not as attracted to too much sexual intricacy. Plenty of masturbation is likely, although these lovers tend to be most unhappy without a steady partner. Their sexual natures are rooted in the senses. 

Eros in Gemini. These lovers are sexually curious and interested. They like to be knowledgeable in sexual matters, and often are turned on by the written and spoken word. They may write letters to their lover, or enjoy writing and reading erotica. Because it is difficult for these lovers to turn their minds off during sex, there is a voyeur within the person during sexual expression, and it may be difficult for these lovers to simply "let go". Many Eros in Gemini individuals enjoy talking, and being talked to, during sex.

Eros in Cancer. There is a need to infuse emotional care and nurture into the sex act. When the self-image is low, these lovers may use others as sexual objects, probably as a result of their fear of rejection. The breasts are a big turn-on, and many are orally fixated, and some may be attracted to a domination theme. When the self-image is stronger, intimacy and warmth are powerful stimulants.


Eros in Cancer lovers seek to achieve psychic and emotional renewal through sex. They can be very intuitive bed partners. Sexual possessiveness is often an issue. Sometimes, these lovers want their partner to be relatively chaste, but they don't have the same standards for themselves. These lovers often fall in love with their sexual partners.

Eros in Leo. Fantasies for Eros in Leo often revolve around their partner's desire for them. These lovers generally get off on what they believe their sex partner must be feeling about them. They can put a lot of time into auto-erotic behavior, and are often given to much flirtation and many infatuations. Nevertheless, they can be more loyal than most. Eros in Leo lives for love and attraction. They are threatened when passion settles down in their relationships. They feel the need to keep passion alive, and when it settles in a relationship, they can be addicted to flirting with other people in order to feel alive and potent. Eros in Leo lovers have a big ego investment in their relationships.

Eros in Virgo. Earthiness and intellectuality combine in Eros in Virgo. These lovers are sensual, especially when they are not thinking too much. Because of the tendency for Virgo to think and analyze, however, there can be a tendency to be one's own voyeur during sex. Vicarious enjoyment of sex is often highlighted with this placement. A meeting of minds is important to Eros in Virgo. These are somewhat moody lovers who may have distinct phases between promiscuity and celibacy. 


Virgo is very connected with--and aware of--the body and its functioning, and Eros in Virgo often seeks renewal through sex, with an attitude that sex is healthy and good for you. These are generally sensitive and tender lovers who do a lot to please their partners. Some awkwardness and shyness in terms of letting themselves go is often characteristic of this position. Virgo's symbol is the Virgin. This should not be taken literally, although when Virgo is connected to the sexual nature, there is a sense of purity and independence. These lovers can be promiscuous at times, and quite kinky, but emerge from their experiences with a sense of purity nevertheless.

  Eros in Libra. This is a rather flirtatious and charming position of Eros. Libra's tendency toward a "tit for tat" attitude shows up as a desire for equality on a sexual level, but in practice, Eros in Libra lovers often forget their own sexual needs because they are focusing on those of their partner. Communication is sexy to these lovers. These people can be hopelessly addicted to all of the "trappings" of falling in love, so much so that when a relationship settles, it may seem boring. Highly romantic and charming, Eros in Libra people enjoy the social "game" surrounding making connections with lovers, and they can be quite seductive.

Eros in Scorpio. This is an especially erotic position of Eros. These lovers can be addicted to the thrill of getting to know a person inside and out, and to the power of love and sex. Intensity is important to these lovers. They don't just want their partner's body, they want a bit of their soul as well! This position suggests very little fear in the area of sexual intimacy, and these lovers will pretty much do anything and everything with a willing partner. They are passionate, and the more intense the relationship is, the better. Animal magnetism is high, probably because these people think about sex and intimacy a whole lot, and others may sense their intensity. They can easily get under your skin, tapping into others' desires.

Eros in Sagittarius. These lovers have an enthusiastic and exuberant appeal. Sex is meant to be fun for Eros in Sagittarius, and some roughhousing and plenty of hearty laughs are turn-ons. Sexuality is sometimes viewed as if it were a sport by these people. They may surprise you with a very open and almost innocent attitude toward sex and intimacy. Sex is a bit of a game, and how this attitude is received will depend a lot on the audience! There can be a bit of an addiction to the chase, and avoidance of intimacy when it feels restricting in any way. 


Tenderness and romance are not the kinds of expressions that come as easily to these lovers. Laughter and fun are aphrodisiacs for this position of Eros. Sexual exploration and freedom are important, as well as a need for sexual honesty—sex without the frills and trappings that these lovers may find to be unnatural and even dishonest. Eros in Sagittarius can show up as passion for knowledge, hunger for new experiences, and a love of travel and exploring new lands and cultures.

Eros in Capricorn. These natives are sensual and earthy in their sexual desires. The libido is strong, but controlled. Saturn-ruled Capricorn is a sign that likes to be in control—not necessarily in control of others, but in control of themselves. Many Eros in Capricorn people channel much of their desire nature into accomplishing something significant. 

Eros in Aquarius. These lovers are intrigued by the unusual, finding variety exciting. The detachment of Aquarius can mean finding sensuality in non-contact scenarios in addition to contact ones. Sexual creativity is one of the strengths of this position. Their open minds with regards to sex can stimulate creativity in their partner. 

Eros in Pisces. There is a chameleon in this position of Eros, as these lovers are very adaptable to their partner. This is not to say these lovers don't have sexual preferences or possess a strong identity. Instead, the Pisces compassion, and ability to understand and accept virtually every color of the rainbow shows through in a sexual/romantic way. They tend to be most comfortable and at ease when their partner is expressing him or herself confidently. This position also suggests a passion for Pisces-ruled subjects. 

Eros in Aspect.

When Eros is prominent in the chart (for example, if Eros is conjunct the Ascendant, or if it conjuncts the Sun, Moon, Venus, or Mars), Eros themes are strong in the individual's life. Often, the individual oozes sexuality in some way. The mind is often focused on sex and infatuation.

Eros in Love.

Eros represents our awareness of our mortality. Because we know we are going to die, we continually recreate feelings (confirmation, if you will) of our own vitality. We can so do in a Leonine way—for example, through romance, bearing children, and creativity. Eros love is very self-centered. Eros is, indeed, turned on by the idea that they are arousing someone else, but this kind of "feedback" is very much used to feed our own need to feel alive and vital.

Saturn Returns roll the dice of Life

My friend Eileen (of Titanic Astrology fame; see the previous post in archives) is celebrating her 2nd Saturn return by letting the gray come out in her hair color.  She's accepting the fact that age and time (Saturn) come to us all--and that honoring it (along with the wisdom that experience can bestow) is worth showing to the world.  "You've come a long way" says a Saturn return, "and now let's see what you do with it."

 **Remember that your first Saturn return comes @29 years of age and lasts for @2.5 years. It is a reminder: you need to learn this character-soul lesson now because you are in real adulthood time. It is a new lesson you never realized was important.

 If you do NOT accept the challenge, it will reappear @58-59, and last another 2.5 years. It will be much harder to resolve. If you DO accept the first Saturn return experience, you will face similar challenges—but there is a reward waiting for you upon “graduation”. By reference: I have a 3^rd house Saturn: I first had to learn public speaking, and I was terrified of it—and in a sales career. By the 2^nd, I was teaching at an overseas university and had to learn how to better become a professor again. I ended up as Director of Teaching.

 1st - Personal stress, personality testing, problems with bones, teeth, or skeletal system, establishing perimeters, self-confidence under trial or challenges.

 2.  Cash flow restrictions, budget pressure, learning to do a lot with less, doubts and worries about self-worth.

 3.  Mental powers tested, knowledge of career field stretched to the limit; difficulties with siblings.

 4.  Home and personal belongings/security become limited; loss of parent(s), burdens from family or home environment.

 5.  Creativity crisis--how to channel it and substitute other skills; romantic or sexual depression; fated love affairs that create stress; difficulties with children.

 6.  Hard, heavy-and-boring work; tending to details on job matters; stressful workload; health issues, especially digestion.

 7.  Resolving business and personal relationship issues and partnerships; getting rid of failed or finished companions; finalizing or commitments to good partners.

 8.  Troubles with partner's finances and resources; learning to handle monies for others; sexual difficulties or limitations; setbacks from inheritances.

 9.  Dedication and pursuit of education; religious or spiritual regeneration and undertaking; travel and long-distance trips that take time to resolve and manage.

 10.  Working hard to gain career status attention and recognition; extra responsibilities in job or occupation of choice; failures or demotion at the workplace from disreputable behaviors.

 11.  Karmic bonding with groups and friends; estrangement from close friends and associates; forced independence.

 12.  Treacherous ground: backstabbing from friends who become enemies, doubts and fears prey upon failures in life, depression and abuse of substances and indulgences.