Zodiac symbols are the key to charts

Just a point: learn the glyphs. That's a must, but it's a language of symbols and personalities, see? The zodiac signs go in order--and their qualities are found in the same pattern of the houses and their meanings. Learn a sign and you know that house quality. Again, this is an educational statement for anyone who wants to learn to read charts: just learn the symbols first. 

The Ram's Horns, the Bull's Horns, the Twin Brothers, the Crab's Claws, the Lion's Mane, the Woman sitting, the Scales of Balance, the Scorpion's Stinger, the Centaur-Archer's Arrow and Bow, the Goat-Fish with a tail, the Electric Awareness of the Universe, and Two Fish.

The planets are unique too: the Cup of Jupiter's Fortune, Saturn's Scythe that cuts back on our energy; Mars's erection and Venus's Hand Mirror. Uranus is both the electric antenna of Universal Knowledge and the 'H' for its founder, Herschel. Neptune's trident, the Sun is the Center of your world, and Mercury has a winged hat. (Pluto is the Circle of Eternity in the Material World.) The key asteroids are featured here too, and Chiron, the Key to Personal Healing. The planet Earth, although not used, is the Cross of Matter inside the Circle of Life.

Jupiter in Cancer (meets the Sun in Cancer native): Home is for Happiness

It's time for growth with Jupiter in Cancer by transit. As the planet of Opportunity, Gains, Expansion, and Optimism, the focus in the sign of the Crab will bring bigger and better energies to family matters (many people who did not think they would be parents may possibly well find themselves as new mothers and fathers); interest in food (Cancer the Crab rules the kitchen and providing for others nutritional needs); and a raised awareness of the home environment and its abilities to "do more" for those it protects and offers comfort.

Personally, Cancer-Crabs will see new and invigorating views of Self as Jupiter joins their Sun: Traditionally, this is considered one of the most marvelous transits, and indeed it is quite good.  However, its influence may be masked by other transits that are longer-lasting and more powerful.  If your chart has indications of many difficult behavioral challenges and attitudes that are occurring by other conditions and transits at this time, this one will serve largely to give you a break.

At the very least, you will feel good at this time.  Your health is better, and you feel very optimistic.  For a while it may seem that everything is working out perfectly, and if you make an effort, it will.  But if you simply sit back and enjoy this transit, its beneficent influence will pass away with little to show for it afterward.

This is the beginning of a new 12-year cycle of growth in your life.  It is a time to initiate new projects and expand your activities so that you can experience life from a broader perspective.  You may find that you can escape from some narrowing and inhibiting circumstances that have prevented you from realizing your full potential as a human being.  Sometimes people travel under this configuration, but usually the traveling is more in the mind.

This is a good time to study a subject that raises your consciousness or expands your view of the world, and it is an excellent transit for going back to school.  You may also meet new people who expose you to aspects of life that you have never known before.  Your freedom will certainly increase.

Even with this transit, there are some pitfalls.  First, your exuberant optimism can cause you to overdo or overreach yourself, so that when this transit is over, you find yourself out on the proverbial limb.  Exercise a certain amount of restraint and build upon what you have rather than trying to increase your holdings beyond your ability to handle them.  Be careful of extravagance, and if you invest money, remember that today’s luck is not permanent.

Otherwise, you can have a good time under this transit.  Remember, the feeling of well-being that you experience now is really closer to the truth of who you are than the gloomier or more depressed feelings that you have at other times.

But just one small--no, make that a whopper because it's Jupiter--point to make: one's home life and family matters may become bigger than expected. After all, just ask the Little Old Woman who Lived in a Shoe.

She had so many children she didn't know what to do.

Pluto 4th House transit: Rebuild your Life & Home

A word from Pluto the Transforming Agent of Changes and Rebuilding: "When I visit a house (Area of Life Activity), you will meet MY demands and expectations that are designed for your personal Growth & Character Development--and My method is to destroy what you have created and expect will continue. Your ability to regenerate and reconstruct yourself into NEW Awareness of Self is my gift--whether or not you like it or agree with the immediate results."

Don't care for Saturn's Lessons and "Go back and repeat it again" ways? Pluto doesn't ask us to repeat a lesson: it completely wipes out the rules and guidelines and makes us develop a whole new sense of ideas, purpose, commitment, or objectives. To my experience (and also from clients), this is more observable when Pluto transits the angles (1st, 4th, 7th, & 10th houses). 

This is a lesson of Pluto in the Fourth House of Home Environment, Family Settings, and the End Times of our lives: whatever structures, foundations, plans, goals, objectives, and intentions are in place will be swept aside, either figuratively or literally. (Author's note: In my own experience, I have watched Pluto in my 4th house since 2005--and I have moved almost 3000 miles six times since then. That's over 4600 km each time. In facing Pluto each time, I have made friends and seen them depart from my life and given up loved ones, pets, belongings, property, and jobs. It has been brutally painful each time--but Pluto in the 4th house says "Where you are and what you are at this time will not be the same when I have finished with your life.")

I don't want to use the analogy of a disaster as a means of defining Pluto in the 4th house, but it has a firm message that I saw as the embodiment of this transit. In 2005, when I saw New Orleans, Louisiana, be pummeled by Hurricane Katrina, that was a strong motivation for me to immediately decide that I needed to change how I lived, WHERE I lived, and how much I needed to learn about my priorities and values about "home sweet home." My very first home that I bought seven months earlier was put on the market for sale--and I said to friends that I intended to relocate to California so that I could meet someone who would help me learn about self-reliance and self-sufficiency and share a home. I found that person--and found ourselves a farm and land--not long after. It was an eye-opening experience to raise food--including chickens--and to be responsible for the egg-to-dinner table results. This City Boy learned a whole new way of living from Pluto's presence in the 4th house. 

It happened again in 2009, when I had to move yet again (and yes, over 3000 miles) in order to deal with 4th house issues. (The 4th house involves one parent; this involved my mother's health and care.) After I finished the tenure set by Pluto for this transformational understanding, I was then free to move yet AGAIN 3000+ miles in order to start new--and so I did. 

And now...Pluto has energized me and the importance of starting over one more time--and I have--you guessed it--moved a great distance to work overseas. (My 5th house cusp is 23 Capricorn--looks like "the road is my middle name" may well be my future for a LONG time). 

So, PLEASE heed my counsel when I say to you that "Pluto in transit through your 4th house {and also in other houses} will change you in ways that you do not expect, that you do not want to let go of, and in ways that are absolutely profound to your expectations. Learn to embrace the potential of Renewal, Rebuilding, and Opportunity from Pluto, even if it means you have to pack everything in a suitcase and go. Pluto makes no promises except that change is inevitable, and that your willingness to face it can make all the difference for success or frustration. As much as you may love your home and all that belongs under your roof, Pluto transiting your 4th house may uproot you physically, emotionally, and most certainly, completely, so that you find the path to a new reality that is vital for your psyche.

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An Astrological Roadmap to Awakening the Sun Sign/Soul Purpose

With credit and thanks to the original source for this:

 it's too good not to share with you.

Mars in Taurus - Steady at the helm

With Mars in Taurus in transit in the sign of the Bull and its earthy element, this is a time to Slow Down and Act with Deliberation, Purpose, and Consistency--and Get the Job Done because that's what keeps us focused. 

All manners of physical work, including exercise, should be better now: the body human and its flesh-and-blood construction, will be better able to handle requirements and functions if asked and applied. This also includes care and treatment--as in "get some quality time for relaxation and comfort." 

It's absolutely appropriate to go to the gym a bit more if you need the hands-on workout, but it's also just as important now--more than ever--to get body care, including adjustments, manipulation, or other corrective support, and also massage, reflexology, spa or other water therapies, or sensory enhancement (aromatherapy, ear candling, mud baths, or even deep soaking time in a hot tub).

Mars in Taurus is a time when intellect and decision-making moves slowly; therefore, it's absolutely correct for deep thinking, planning, strategizing, and even deliberation. It can also be beneficial for projects that would take time to fulfill or accomplish; this could be an excellent opportunity to tackle a large project that does not have a need for a fast resolution. However you use this energy, it's slow and steady--and gives a great potential for tangible rewards.

Astrology & Tarot as Archetypes & Role Models

The use of archetypes in astrology also has a similar representation with the Tarot deck. Even ordinary playing cards have their birth information value. The astrology wheel and the Tarot deck combine to make a powerful statement about learning more about the Life Blueprint concept of Psychological Astrology for the Psyche.

Empty Houses & Follow-up Rulership placements

"I received my chart from you and there are empty houses! What does this mean?" It means you first learn the meanings of the houses--it's easy enough, and there are a number of ways I've shown how here at  link #1 &  "houses link2". Yes, this is part of how you gain use of the "short phrases". Try "Cities and Famous Places of the World as Houses" in link #1. Look for the bottom portion of Link #2 to explain the categories of each house. The top portion of Link #2 is from the famous Stephen Arroyo's work--an acclaimed psychologist's view of the houses.

Then ask yourself--what's the condition of the empty house? Who's the doorman on the cusp? What uniform is he wearing? What characterizations of the sign do you know? Find the ruler of that sign and see where it falls on its respective cusp, and also, what planet is engaged? In what sign? In what kind of aspect or energy flow? In other words, "Where was the activity of that empty house displayed?" What role of response is represented as a resulting follow-up? Who got the job, and what IS the job?

I have Capricorn on the 5th; no planets. Saturn, the ruler of Capricorn, is in my 3rd in Scorpio. It makes up part of the Yod to my midheaven (career): how I express myself in communications through my work as a Life Mentor and astrologer. The 3rd house involves Communications, Short Trips, and Basic Learning. The 5th house is Children, Fun & Enjoyment, Love, and Creativity--I have no children, but my creative works, including my books, are my "kids" in their own way. I fulfill the (Gemini-like) 3rd house Communications and Information Dispersal  & the Discipline Demanded thru the presence of the Master Teacher (Saturn) with my effort to express myself as an astrological teacher and my college professorship as an English instructor. 

I also do it by writing and blogging, including the 3 books I've authored. My B.A. in psychology fulfills the mystical deep intuitive studies demanded by Scorpio: "what secrets hide in the minds of men and women?" By using my abilities to write, speak, and act with deliberation, effort, knowledge of the psyche, and creativity, I learn to give life to my "progeny" through my work and play--and fulfill my lessons to express myself in verbal and written form. Public speaking, anyone? Learning THAT was a big lesson for me--even how to speak more slowly. And that isn't easy for a Noo Yawker from Lawn Guyland.

So it's just like that: where's the ruler of the empty house sign? Look to the answer for the clues to reveal about how it's being resolved. 

Here's a long sample of rulerships: 

Ruler of the 1st House in the Houses:

The ruler of the first house is also referred to as the "chart ruler". Example: If Aries is on the first house, Mars is the first house ruler. If Mars is in the 7th house, then the ruler of the first house is in the 7th house. 

It can point to dominant interests or motivations, things that we pour a lot of energy into, as well as areas of life where we are motivated to take personal action. Sometimes we use the energies associated with the house to protect ourselves from the insecurities we may feel about being "out there" and exposed to the world. The condition of the first house shows how we handle beginnings, new situations, and being "looked at" or acknowledged. 

How we feel when we walk into a place we've never been before--whether the feeling is one of self-consciousness, boldness, reticence, eagerness, and so forth--comes under the rule of the first house. For example, if the ruler of the 1st house is in the 4th house, we may build a strong connection to family or build a home base to make us feel protected and safe. We may not be especially comfortable in new situations or situations that single us out.

Keep in mind the meaning of the first house when interpreting its ruler's position and aspects. The first house reveals our defense mechanisms and first reactions to new stimuli, how we instinctively react to a new situation,  how we appear to others (the "first impression" we make on a personal level), our mannerisms and physical bearing, and our physical form.

Ruler of the 1st House in the 1st House

The manner in which you come across to others is very important to you. You are self-conscious and very body aware. Even if you don't have any planets in Aries, you have some distinct Aries traits--you are reactive, a leader, and sometimes impulsive. You are self-motivated and self-interested. You live life believing that your fate is in your own hands, and you are likely to be quite proactive.

Ruler of the 1st House in the 2nd House

You have a strong value system, and you value security and longevity more than most people. Some may call you stubborn and fixed, as you do have a way of establishing routines and getting set in your ways. You may be focused on establishing yourself materially, but this position can also suggest a strong desire to lay down roots. Comfort and security motivate much of what you do, and you value things that last. Even if you don't have planets in the sign of Taurus, you have some distinct Taurus traits.

Ruler of the 1st House in the 3rd House

Even if you don't have planets in Gemini, your chart ruler in the third house gives you some distinct Gemini traits, such as versatility, curiosity, and communication skills. You may be fidgety, somewhat restless, and most certainly curious about the world around you. You are likely to be quite active, moving about close to home. You adopt a lighthearted approach to life, may be a "jack of all trades", and are a "people watcher". You delight in putting two and two together, and feel a stronger need than most people to engage in idle chit-chat with friends.

Ruler of the 1st House in the 4th House

Some might call you a homebody. You are someone who is very motivated by a need for security and roots. You may "take after" a parent quite strongly--perhaps following in his or her footsteps or resembling this parent. Even if you don't have planets in Cancer, you display distinct traits of the sign. You may invest a lot of energy into building your "nest".

Ruler of the 1st House in the 5th House

Even if you don't have planets in Leo, you display distinct traits of the sign. You pour a lot of energy into hobbies, children, or creative endeavors. Having a good time is important to you! You need to express yourself creatively, thrive on attention, and you are likely very romantic and proud. There is some sort of eager excitement connected with being noticed and singled out. You enjoy attention and often look for it in order to feed your spirit.

Ruler of the 1st House in the 6th House

What you do as a vocation is more important to you than most. You may be a bit of a workaholic, as work occupies your thoughts. Others see you as a helpful and responsible person, and likely your reputation is well-deserved. You are very body-aware, and it is important that you have a healthy regimen of diet and/or physical activity. This builds your confidence. In many ways, you come across as unassuming and modest. You are always willing to offer helpful tips to others--and you have plenty of them!

Ruler of the 1st House in the 7th House

How you see yourself--and find yourself--is mirrored by a partner or close friend. You tend to define yourself in terms of how you relate with another person. Bouncing ideas off, or getting feedback from, another person feels almost like a necessity in order for you to take action or make decisions. Decisions are thus made indirectly, as a product of this feedback. You may find that you vacillate a lot as a result.

Ruler of the 1st House in the 8th House

You are a person who readily sees that there is more to any person or situation than meets the eye. You are somewhat reserved, not fond of "posing", and you have a distinct disdain for all that is superficial. You have a mysterious, private, or sensual aura around you. 

You are not one to show off, and you seem to be content to be left alone--at least that's what others seem to read. Psychology appeals to you, you are generally quite hard-working, and you may spend much of your time researching and "digging". Sometimes this indicates an inheritance that transforms the life, or handling other people's money.

Ruler of the 1st House in the 9th House

You are a generally outgoing person--an idealist and a dreamer. Usually ready for an adventure on the fly, you are a growth-oriented person and a born philosopher. Your opinions are strong, and you are generally ready and willing to let others know what you think! You may also be especially attracted to travel.

Ruler of the 1st House in the 10th House

You have a strong need for recognition that can be a driving force in your life. You are usually ready to take charge, and you are fond of structure. You readily take responsibility for yourself and for others. Some people with this position "hide" behind a position, such as a job, social standing, or reputation; or, they are especially fond of letting others know their position in life. Certainly, you come across as strong.

Ruler of the 1st House in the 11th House

You like to be on the same wavelength as others, and you tend to actively seek out similar, like-minded people to share times with. You are concerned about the welfare of others, and equality of people is an important concept in your life. People with this position are usually quite outgoing, sociable, and adventurous.

Ruler of the 1st House in the 12th House

While shy in youth, as you mature you tend to find ways of handling and masking your sensitivity. Your intuition is strong, and you naturally understand that there are hidden forces in life that influence the daily goings-on. You tend to always be seeking something higher--such as a greater meaning or understanding of life and your place or purpose in it. There is something mysterious and private to your aura. 

At times, you may feel a lot of anxiety. Although you are capable of being alone, sometimes loneliness consumes you and vague doubts and fears haunt you. You are a perceptive person, and managing your deep sensitivity is something that can be a lifelong task.

Ruler of the 2nd House in the Houses: Interpretations

Example: If Aries is on the second house, Mars is the second house ruler. If Mars is in the 7th house, then the ruler of the second house is in the 7th house. 

Ruler of the 2nd House in the 1st House
The anxiety about earning your own money already was generated in your youth, probably by your family upbringing. Your financial income is directly related to your own effort, to the expression of your talents and to the utilization of your physical body.

Ruler of the 2nd House in the 2nd House

You are able to earn money through your own industry. You will find security thanks to your patient work and perseverance. Your practical and realistic sense allows you to do very well in your professional activity. It is important for you to establish a healthy sense of values, because your remuneration is based on that.

Ruler of the 2nd House in the 3rd House

Your income may be derived from a job or career which involves verbal as well as written communication, studies, travel, and also by working with a brother or sister if you have any, or other close relative.

Ruler of the 2nd House in the 4th House

Your income is related to your home, the city where you reside, and also to real estate in general. You may work out of your home or in professions such as interior decorator, gardener, farmer or real estate ventures.

Ruler of the 2nd House in the 5th House

Your income is related to creative endeavors, publications, entertainment, sports or arts, investments that imply certain risk or speculation, education or children. You are likely to earn money through some pursuit that will offer satisfaction and pleasure.

Ruler of the 2nd House in the 6th House

Your income is related to fields of sanitation, diets, health, hygiene, nursing, or occupying a subordinate position and organization in important companies, or in a completely different area such as domestic animal care.

Ruler of the 2nd House in the 7th House

Your income is related to the training of a matrimonial or commercial society, or to an activity related to the public. You could also earn money involving legal affairs, such as contracts and agreements.

Ruler of the 2nd House in the 8th House

Your income is related to the administration of other people's resources, joint investments, banking, brokerage, insurance, or politics. There is a possibility of receiving an inheritance. This position also favors profit by marriage.

Ruler of the 2nd House in the 9th House

Your income depends to a large extent on the relationship you may have with other countries. You can earn money in foreign trade, import and export, travel, tourism, or a liberal profession, science, philosophy or religion, or teaching in a university.

Ruler of the 2nd House in the 10th House

Your income is related to the career or profession that you choose. Thanks to your daily effort, you will be able to establish a sense of achievement. This position enables you to earn money in some government capacity or politics, or to acquire a profession of great social status.

Ruler of the 2nd House in the 11th House

Your income is closely linked with those of friends, your relationships, or to activities that you perform in certain social groups. You are likely to have influential friends who will help you to improve your income. There is a possibility of earning money through administrative or political positions in social organizations.

Ruler of the 2nd House in the 12th House

Your income is related to some kind of service in connection with healing and welfare, or helping the less fortunate. You may have difficulties evaluating your self worth, which may impinge your level of income. 

Evaluating your natural talents would bring better financial opportunities. This influence could bring confidential financial support, but also may incline to clandestine or illegal business. Avoid any easy business that may imply some risk or commitment.

 Ruler of the 7th House in the Houses: Interpretations

The seventh house represents what you are looking for in others in order to complement the qualities you most identify with, whether you do this consciously or unconsciously.

Ruler of the 7th House in the 1st House

You possess a strong level of charm. Your people skills are likely quite keen, in that you quickly pick up on cues in your environment. Relationships are vitally important to you, and you often, perhaps without even knowing it, tend to evaluate yourself based on how well you are getting along with others. 

You tend to be attracted to partners who are independent and outgoing, or who reflect the image that you project. You have an intense need to identify with your partner (or with the public), and you may often find yourself doing what it takes to please that partner (or the public).

Ruler of the 7th House in the 2nd House

You tend to gravitate to a life partner who shares similar basic values as you. You value certainty in partnership more than almost anything. Constancy is important to you as well. Your life partner may be a good provider or could be the money manager in your relationship. 

Significant one-to-one relationships in your life are important to you, and you tend to hang on to people as long as you can, as you value longevity, security, familiarity, and reliability in your partnerships. You can be quite possessive of your partners.

Because security is most important to you, you may tolerate unhappiness in a partnership just so that you don't have to be the one to leave. Partnerships make you feel secure. Physical touching and closeness is important to you in your significant relationships.

Ruler of the 7th House in the 3rd House

Communication is everything to you in a partnership. You enjoy discussions with significant others in your life, if only to bounce ideas back and forth. Movement in a relationship is important to you. You tend to like to spend a lot of time with a partner, perhaps running errands together, or simply chatting about your day. 

Although you enjoy talking to a partner, you also value his or her opinion, and most certainly value your partner's involvement. You may find that your thoughts take shape more readily when you are able to hold one-on-one conversations. For example, you may come to more interesting conclusions or get your best ideas if you are speaking or writing to another person rather than simply thinking about something on your own, or jotting down your ideas. 

Thus you seem to need another person to help you give shape to your own ideas. This does not mean you depend on others for advice; however, you do rely on the feedback of others to stimulate your own thought processes.

Ruler of the 7th House in the 4th House

You seek a partner who is nurturing, caring, and domestic. A feeling of security in your close personal relationships is extremely important to you. Fitting in to your sense of home and family, and your set of traditions, is important to you in a companion. You seek someone familiar and comfortable. Your life partner may be the one who provides a home base for you--a sense of comfort and security. 

This sometimes indicates a person who is slow to marry, if at all. This position can suggest that your relationships tend to mirror your own parents' relationship, either in an unconscious attempt to fill emotional needs that went unfulfilled in childhood, or to cling to your roots. You tend to feel threatened when others don't support your most basic of values.

Ruler of the 7th House in the 5th House

A spirit of fun, romance, and playfulness is important to you when it comes to your close relationships. You tend to depend upon a companion to stimulate your own creativity or to bring out your "inner child". 

You are unlikely to marry for any other reason but love, as there is an idealistic and romantic side to you. This sometimes indicates that you look for a creative and expressive partner, or that you partner with someone in a creative endeavor on a professional level. You tend to seek a companion who enjoys similar diversions and hobbies as you do. You are quite dependent on the encouragement of your partner, and you thrive on attention from a companion. You are threatened by a person who is detached or impersonal. 

A relationship that is playful, reassuring, and encouraging is most attractive to you. You feed on the emotional energy of a partnership, deriving confidence from your association. You may be "in love with love", and you tend to approach any new association with a fresh and idealistic attitude.

Ruler of the 7th House in the 6th House

You seek a partner who is supportive of you on a day-to-day basis and with regards to the work you do. However, you may end up with someone who is too involved to the point of being meddlesome. Sometimes this indicates meeting a partner through work, or working with a partner.  This may also indicate a companion who supports your work or even makes your work possible. 

There is a practical tone to your partnerships, and you might want to watch that they don't grow to be relationships involving duty or obligation more than relationships just for the sake of togetherness. You do value a partner's involvement and concern, but it must be on your own terms in order for you to feel fulfilled. This may be especially the case if the planet involved is the Sun, Mercury, Mars, or Saturn. Because this is tricky, you may end up feeling criticized or observed by your partner a little too much for your liking. 

There may be a strong theme of inequality, imbalance, or service in your close partnerships, especially with the Moon, Venus, or Neptune here. If you find yourself drawn to partners in need of help, you might consider that you are doing so in order to heal a part of yourself. This position can also indicate that the work you do involves service to others in one-to-one scenarios, such as counseling.

Ruler of the 7th House in the 7th House

While the ruler of the 7th in the 5th suggests being "in love with love", this position suggests being in love with the relationship itself. 

You depend a great deal on a partnership, but you must be careful not to be so focused on "the relationship" that you lose sight of the people in it! You tend to form close partnerships quite easily, perhaps feeling that life just wouldn't be "right" without a close companion. You may find yourself attracted to partners who are strong and who tend to lead the relationship, especially if the planet involved is the Sun, Mars, or Saturn. You are a master at the art of compromise. 

The most positive expression of this position is partnering with someone who increases your self-confidence. The main situation to avoid here is the development of co-dependent relationships. As well, although you may be attracted to people who take charge in the relationship, you might develop resentment towards your companion over time, and passive-aggressive behavior may be the result.

Ruler of the 7th House in the 8th House

You are drawn to relationships that challenge you to grow and transform. In the process, you may unconsciously create challenges in your partnerships. These can take the form of "testing" your partner, although it's unlikely to be a deliberate process. You are drawn to relationships with a "life or death" intensity. Superficial connections simply don't satisfy you--passion and intensity are what gets you going. When you couple, you do so completely. 

You encounter your "shadow" through your partnerships, and you might find that relationships bring out the darker emotions in you--jealousy, manipulation, fear of betrayal, and so forth. Ultimately, however, they can also bring out your hidden strengths. Power struggles may be part of the picture. It can be hard for you to move on and get over a relationship that ends, and there can be an obsessive quality to your close relationships. 

Your partnerships tend to alter your life and lifestyle significantly, as you tend to throw yourself into them with passion and intensity. This position sometimes indicates that you are drawn to close companions who offer you support--moral, financial, and otherwise. On the other hand, you may be in a position to counsel others with regard to their finances.

Ruler of the 7th House in the 9th House

Relationships must be vital and alive rather than static and routine in order for you to feel fulfilled. In some cases, the spouse comes from a culture that is very different from your own background. You might shy away from a legal commitment. Your partner brings out the philosopher or wanderer in you. Through your partnerships, you feel more adventurous, curious, and interested in exploring beyond your neighborhood and your circle. 

Although you may rely on others to inspire your own higher mind, you do not necessarily concur with his or her belief system. You enjoy discussing and creating your personal philosophies together with a partner. You require much more than just physical and emotional stimulation from a partner. When your higher mind is stimulated, the rest of you engages. This position also indicates a strong idealism when it comes to close partnerships. You are not one to "settle" for practical reasons or otherwise. You need to feel that the person you are with is right for you, and that is the single most important factor.

Ruler of the 10th House in the Houses: Interpretations

Ruler of 10th house in 1st house

Your professional success is related to the expression of your personality, the confidence in your initiative and your physical body or appearance. Whatever you achieve in life, you will have to do it on your own and will be very proud of it. Try to avoid the tendency to become egocentric. You may do best when self-employed.

Ruler of 10th house in 2nd house

Your professional success will be reflected in your income. Most likely you will make money through the profession you choose. Your resources and values play an important role in your future success.

Ruler of 10th house in 3rd house

Your professional success is related to some form of self-expression. You feel a need to communicate and to express your own ideas through the profession you choose. Your career may necessitate a lot of traveling or you may publish notes or articles.

Ruler of 10th house in 4th house

Your profession is related to your home, and because of this, you may work out of your home or with one of your parents, possibly continuing a family business. This astrological influence also could lead you to try fields having to do with soil, property, land or those that have to do with your place of birth.

Ruler of 10th house in 5th house

Your professional success is related to your creativity. No matter what profession you choose, you always show your originality and desire to do things your way. This astrological position leads you to find success, especially in sports or artistic careers. Working in your profession will be a pleasure for you.

Ruler of 10th house in 6th house

Your professional success is related to your ideas on service. No matter what profession you choose, it will be more gratifying for you if you feel that you are helping others. This astrological position favors professions linked to medicine, therapy or nutrition. If you do not have a career, you are likely to work in a company that provides some kind of service.

Ruler of 10th house in 7th house

Your professional success is related to the public, society and marriage. You have a need for give and take with the public; your contact with the public could be on a large scale as well as people individually. Your professional progress will be stimulated by the training of some association or by the support you receive from your mate.

Ruler of 10th house in 8th house

Your professional success is related to your ability to produce changes or transformations in yourself as well as others. This astrological influence brings financial support from others that will help your career. That help could come from a financial institution as well as your marriage. Any kind of investigations would be very favorable.

Ruler of 10th house in 9th house

Your professional success is related to your ideals, university degree, higher studies, religion and traveling. You may establish yourself professionally in a different place from that of your birth or your work could necessitate you to travel often. You always feel the need to expand your knowledge and to make the most of each day.

Ruler of 10th house in 10th house

You are likely to put a lot of energy into achieving professional success. Your ambitions and goals are clearly defined, and you have a need to demonstrate to yourself and others what you can achieve through your own effort. Your career may depend on parental support or guidance, or you may follow in the footsteps of your parents. Either way, you always point out your individuality and personal ability.

Ruler of 10th house in 11th house

Your professional success is related to your participation in some organization, group, union, or club. The support you receive from your friends will be crucial and because of this, you have to consider sociability as an important part of your life.

Ruler of 10th house in 12th house

Your professional success is related to your ability to serve others behind the scenes. Your profession is likely to be performed behind closed doors or in private. This position favors professions that require power behind the throne; that is to say that you make suggestions or decisions without conferring with the public. Activities linked to secret information, medicine or investigations would be very favorable.

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House sign interceptions: "caught in the middle" for growth patterns

The topic of interceptions has come up (and no, this is not like the kind in American football games): this appears in the chart when two signs are "caught in between" respective house cusps. As I understand, this is due more so to the mix of latitude/longitude/day/time and the result of timing itself.

An interception throws two signs in polarity in the "middle" of the cusp between two houses. The psychological-spiritual lesson that comes with this involves an "extra" measure of those two sign's dynamics that need development, growth, and emphasis for the individual. It's a "doubling-up" effect of Lessons that has been provided for the individual's life experiences and soul growth.

 A new client of mine has Sagittarius on her ascendant. However, Capricorn is "caught in the middle" of the 1st house cusp--and in polarity, Cancer is also "caught in the middle" of her 7th house cusp. She needs to develop her Capricorn qualities in her personality (and also to be aware of the physiological emphasis on her bones, knees, and skeletal system; the first house also involves the appearance and body).

Furthermore, she needs to bring forward more of her caring, nurturing, intuitive-emotional, and family-domestic qualities in her relationships, both personal and if so emphasized, professional, as the 7th house relates to this. She also needs to be more receptive to these influences from someone who wishes to be involved with her in a relationship. She needs to let someone "mother-care" for her and to be open to giving more of this to them.

In summary: when a house shows an intercepted sign, look to the opposite house and see where its complementary sign needs development. Note the quality and nature of the signs involved, and also which planets are contained in those houses, as they will be influential keys for the psyche's growth patterns.

Mars in Aries says "We've got the Power!"

Are you a self-starter who knows the meaning and purpose of "Let's GO for it"? (Or are you someone who says, "If I only had a bit more energy--the things I could accomplish!") Is Mars positioned in Aries in your chart?
This means "YOU have the power to put the pedal to the metal and ACTIVATE!" With Mars giving that shot of adrenalin to its ruling sign and a fuel source that's incendiary, this is a call to show the world that you can give the spark of Initiative for those who are asking for the words of Jim Morrison and the Doors, "Come on baby, Light My Fire!" (Or better yet: just ask the Fantastic Four's Human Torch: "Flame On!")

If there's a project, plan, endeavor, or concept that you want to see that radiates, illuminates, and vibrates with power, assertion, energy, and vitality, you are unleashed with potential with Mars in Aries. And remember: the Sun moves into Aries on March 20th, so the time frame from the first day of Spring until the Sun shifts into Taurus is ESPECIALLY stoked for the hottest and brightest you can get to kick it into overdrive. Burn, baby, burn!

The Chart Ruler: Leader of the horoscope display

All hail the Chart Ruler! This is the leading planet: the "Coach" of the chart--a Sponsor, Director, Primary Owner, Main Influence, and "Follow Me!" Indicator which shows the primary focus of the psyche that the chart will follow.

Found on the cusp of the 1st house (the ascendant or rising sign, or the 'Western directional Point' of the compass), the Chart Ruler has a unique emphasis because it sets the pace for the energy of the psyche as displayed in the chart's placement of planets and signs. It truly is "the Key" that unlocks the chart. 

(*And yes: some planets have more than one sign under its rulership. This hopefully will be corrected as more planets are identified.

 It is also mentioned by key astrologers that the Earth should rule Taurus, or that the asteroid Juno should rule Libra. This duality of rulerships came about partially because the early origins of the zodiac did not include the outer planets beyond Saturn.)

The Chart Ruler's sign follows the zodiac rulership as follows:

Aries is ruled by Mars, and co-ruled by Pluto.
Taurus is ruled by Venus.
Gemini is ruled by Mercury.*
Cancer is ruled by the Moon.
Leo is ruled by the Sun.
Virgo is ruled by Mercury.*
Libra is ruled by Venus.
Scorpio is ruled by Pluto, and co-ruled by Mars.
Sagittarius is ruled by Jupiter.
Capricorn is ruled by Saturn.
Aquarius is ruled by Uranus, and co-ruled by Saturn.
Pisces is ruled by Neptune, and co-ruled by Jupiter.

Once the (primary) ruling planet is identified, consider the qualities of that planet. Then look at the house (or "Area of Life Experience") where it is located. That area is a primary emphasis of the psyche above and beyond all other houses, planets, and signs in the chart. As an example, my chart has Virgo rising, therefore my chart ruler is Mercury, Indicator of Mental Abilities and Communications. It's found in the 7th house of Partnerships & Relationships--which is my primary influence.

By learning the signs, planets, and house meanings, it becomes very easy to pick out the Chart Ruler in anyone's horoscope!

Pluto transiting the 10th House of Career Changes Everything Planned

"How safe is my career, and what can I do to keep it that way?" is a question I field almost every week. When the client's chart shows transiting Pluto, Indicator of Change, Transformation, Regeneration, and Rebuilding in the 10th house, my response is usually along the line of "Whatever you're doing now will NOT likely be your pattern of work in the long-term future. Be prepared for modifications that are vastly different from what you expected." This is an especially difficult message for me to deliver to someone who is very business-minded, or who has status and achievement as their focus.

As a second influence, I've already noted the economic and social impact of Pluto in Capricorn. But here's what Robert Hand has to say about the transit of Pluto in the 10th house. Also, take note of the last paragraph below: most astrologers assign the 10th house to the parent of the opposite sex of the client (although I think it depends also on whether the Sun or Moon is placed there by birth): 

Pluto in the 10th house of Career and Status achievements

This is a most important time in your life, for you will strive to achieve more now than you ever have before.  You aim to make the greatest possible mark upon the world, and now is the time to do it—but only if you have truly found out who you are and what your life is about.  If you haven’t found out yet, now is the time to do so.  Pluto gives you either the power to achieve your life goals or the insight to find out what they truly are.  Consequently, if you are secure and know about yourself, you have the opportunity for great success as long as you heed certain warnings.  If you do not know your goals, you will probably change your path.  You may change jobs rather often and spend several years apparently quite lost while you find out what you are supposed to be doing.

However, in regards to your striving for success and realization, Pluto arouses your ambitions; the desire to take control and dominate.  Its action can be quite ruthless, like a force of nature that has no regard for human standards of morality and ethics.  But people who act like this under the influence of Pluto are often quite tragic.  Having thrown away their humanity, they discover that they can expect no quarter from others who unite to oppose them, and they are brought down.  It is essential that you avoid wreaking havoc or even bending the standards of ethics with this transit, for Pluto’s energies are too powerful to play games with.  Play the game fairly and according to the rules, but continue to pursue your goals.  Do not take shortcuts.

If you experience the other side of this transit as altering your life direction, the important idea is not to get discouraged.  You may undergo considerable changes during this transit, and you may feel that you have become a different person, which is probably true.  Take all the time you need to find the right course.  If you hurry, you will only get into another wrong place, and your life will be much less than it could have been if you had taken enough time to find yourself.

The 10th house also has connections to one parent.  You may find a relationship with one of them dramatically changing now: perhaps in the capacity that you find yourself becoming the adult provider and being a caretaker for them in a “child is father to the man” type of role.  They may now require medical or other care service needs, such as assisted living.

Saturn Retrograde: Time off to Internalize Deep Life Lessons

Saturn deals with karma, limits, responsibility, tradition, conservatives, authorities, long term goals and accomplishments patiently created, taking responsibility, creating structure, and setting boundaries. Once a year Saturn goes into retrograde for about four-and-a-half months. During this influence, you will probably find it unwise to attempt sudden changes or to rush through things. Take practical steps and accept limitations while you take serious steps toward your long term goals. Saturn retrograde can cause you to become your own hardest taskmaster, limit your actions or leave you feeling blocked and pessimistic. 

In Scorpio, Saturn will teach us how to handle

Life lessons to learn to deal with power and intimacy. You may overcome obstacles through insight or the exercise of power; you may also transform problems into opportunities by getting at their roots.  You may often find yourself blocked by power of others or thwarted by secrecy; you are vulnerable to betrayal; the misuse of power may be your undoing; your blockages may tend to be deep-seated. While retrograde, Saturn will help us clear out issues over sexuality, power, control, and knowing hot to let go of something (someone?) who needs to be discarded.

Saturn also deals with mastering and accomplishing difficult Life Lessons that we often try our best to avoid. Yet there is no negotiating with the Lord of Karma (Saturn): we only end up encountering the same obstacles that we thought had been disregarded. With Saturn retrograde, we internalize and absorb the meaning of the "life classroom experience" we have been shown in order to build some character and moral-spiritual backbone of foundation for our soul and psyche.  Saturn retrograde makes us look at what we SHOULD be doing and why we haven't accepted it as a hurdle to learn to get over, rather than deny. 

With Saturn retrograde, "All talk and no action" becomes the reminder that "Walk your talk" means getting another chance to "put your money where your mouth is." Even better: think of Saturn in retrograde as Hamlet's famous query, "To be or not to be? That is the question." Saturn, ever as strong as can possibly be as the Taskmaster of Lessons, will surely provide the retrograde as an opportunity to give every one of us the time to come up with the answer as well as WHY it matters "to be!"

Venus in Aquarius: Love you like a friend in my Global Family

When Venus enters Aquarius and while She's there, the planet of Love, Beauty, Pleasure, and Social Enjoyment has a detached nature that isn't "me and you" at all. Instead, the Aquarius side has an interest in "the global relationships" that are possible--and a 1:1 commitment isn't a priority.

Venus in Aquarius by nature is loyal and committed; the fixed nature has a steady quality that knows the meaning of holding true to one's values. However, the focus is more about "us" as part of the Family of Man and Womankind--so activities and support is given to social networking and a collective unity with a communal theme of "I love everyone, but not anyone who takes away my sense of freedom and sharing my love for a dedicated cause." 

In a different way too, Venus in Aquarius also recognizes the need for love in ways that defies and rejects current standards of society that are restrictive and limiting. Alternative choices in relationships are a natural understanding. Also, Venus in Aquarius has "techie love": using the vast array of electronic devices that connect people to enhance and develop a sense of All Man and Woman Brothers and Sisters. The view that "It Takes a Village to Raise a Child" also reflects a perspective of Venus in Aquarius: "aunts and uncles, grandfathers and grandmothers" are not just relationship titles, but an understanding that a child can receive love from a non-related member of the community.

Finally, Venus in Aquarius love can also be extended to the Galactic Family that awaits our understanding and acceptance: the multitude of beings in human and non-traditional human form who live on other planets who will finally be accepted by their Earth neighbors much like the Federation of Planets in the Star Trek series. And for that matter, Capt. James Kirk showed advanced Venus in Aquarius love with all those passionate romances he had with alien women. If a female with green skin could make his heart beat faster and raise his arousal, Venus in Aquarius will show us that love will go where no man has gone before when we reach for the stars--or let them connect with us.