The Luminaries: Sun and Moon
The state of the solar system at the time of your birth points to self-similar (fractal) qualities within you. But of all the planets, the "lights" - the Sun and Moon - are thought to indicate the main polarity of your being. In psychology, this has been articulated in the concept of complementarity between the conscious and unconscious contents of the mind. The Sun and Moon act as positive and negative poles - an intentional, directing element (Sun), and a suggestible, receptive one (Moon). In a beneficial relationship, the emotional conditioning of the Moon is given a purposive and positive expression by the astrological Sun. This has been called 'intentional living'. Wherever we allow our consciousness (attention) to rest, that we vitalize.
The Astrological Sun
There is only one center to our solar system, and there is only one center to your psyche. The Sun is the great central powerhouse which illuminates us and shows us where we can get the most from life by radiating all that our sun represents. In Jyotish, the astrology of the Hindus, the Sun is known as 'atma karaka', or soul indicator, signifying a person's confidence, authority and power - the ego center of the horoscope. The Sun is our central identity and 'true self', in that it is toward this more than anything that we should be moving and developing. Thus, it represents that which we wish to become and those we look up to. It is also our essence, our bliss, and that which we do for the sheer fun of it. The Sun is creativity, original flair, celebration and glory - the quality of output we tend to expect from heros and celebrities. But we are each capable of giving out more than we do - and I don't mean money. The Sun is about having a purpose large enough to animate the whole of your life and going about it with a tone of appreciation and joie de vivre. Your Sun shows how and where you can shine. Light your fire!
Sun in Scorpio
Intense and passionate, Scorpio is the sign of delving into the great mysteries of life. You know how to recognise your own depths and have a deep awareness into the thresholds of passage - the tests, steps and initiations we must all go through. You also know how to go without, if need be. You are driven from within and are able to cut through to the heart of things, sometimes sacrificing too much of yourself to an idea or cause. But it is through this process that you are able to reveal to yourself what is going on and make the inner adjustments necessary for the transformations you are constantly going through. You can be very magnetic, even wild at times, and have a sense of power and an instinct for survival. Moody, you often draw on the power of the emotions as a hidden resource and release. Scorpio is intense, passionate and very personal. It rushes past superficialities right to the heart of any matter. A loyal friend but a fanatic foe, this sign does well in politics and all areas where those who dare are rewarded. Associated with sexual energy, Scorpio loves to get involved, going down deeper and coming up dirtier, thereby laying bare that which is hidden.
Sun Square Mars
A born doer and person of action. The ego is strong, energetic, assertive and extroverted. There is an incredible drive to accomplish and achieve in life which pushes straight-on toward whatever goals are in mind. Ambitions are backed-up by the will to get things done, but can be very driven to the point of being too aggressive. There is a strong need for physical outlet. This aspect fosters heroism and valor with much activity being directed toward self-expression.
Sun Sextile Pluto
A real talent for working with sensitive material and touching upon the more vulnerable areas of life. Able to handle 'delicate' matters without breaking stride, for emotional and tender areas of the human psyche don't phase. Enjoys getting beneath the surface and has an innate savvy for handling touchy subjects. Perfect aspect for any research investigation or detective work.
Sun Conjunct Mercury
Mentally active. Intellectual expression comes easily, but is often restless and lacking patience because the mind operates so quickly. Ablility to excel in speaking, writing and all types of communication, but can lack objectivity. Witty and humorous with a dramatic mind, will benefit by being in a teaching or lecturing occupation. Mind wants to capture as much new information as possible, so travel when you can.
The Astrological Moon
The astrological Moon symbolises memory, memes and conditioning - the habitual, instinctive, unconscious side of our nature, and therefore the most predictible. Our interface with the environment - how we react to it - is best indicated by the Moon's position and the planets it aspects. Because it represents our upbringing and emotional background, the Moon denotes our sense of belonging and well-being (or not) and what we need in order to feel comfortable and content. But all too often the tendency is for the Moon to reflect back the frayed impressions of old hurts and vendettas, thereby wasting precious energy on painful and unproductive distractions of the past. Clearly what is needed is a more aspiring attitude; one in which we are continually banging our cup and demanding that our needs be satisfied! What is your special hunger? What kind of stimulation do you need in order to feel good about yourself? True gratification can be had only by feeding your Moon. The Feast of the Present is spread out around you!
Moon in Capricorn
Yours is the most practical of environments. You can manipulate every idea or situation and put it to good use toward your own advancement. Emotions are seldom a priority to the extent that you may even appear emotionally cold. You are sophisticated and, for the most part, unmoved by tears and sentiments, preferring to pour your emotional time and energy into realising your future plans and ambitions. You shine in situations which require detachment and cool assessment or where others are in emotional turmoil.
Moon Square Mercury
Speaks from the heart and feelings color reason. Mental processes are very open to the environment, so makes for strong perceptions and a creative imagination. There is a strong connection with 'the public' and takes an active interest in psychology and cultural studies. Gains support when it comes to writing, speaking and teaching. Women especially tend to be very communicative. Restless. Good memory and strong powers of recall.
Moon Sextile Uranus
Emotional freedom. A stimulating and original outlook, especially when it comes to home and surroundings. Also manifests in unusual ways of supporting oneself. A nack for seeing where and when beneficial changes can be made to the immediate environment. Personal magnetism and a pronounced interest in unusual or so-called alternative ways of living.
The Planets: Agents of the Cosmos
The planets of astrology are not just giant balls of rock and gas, but fractal reflections of the different facets of reality - whole self-consistent categories of meaning. They reveal tendencies which are in a continual state of 'becoming'. But each individual is responsible for developing his or her attributes and actively integrating the planets' detailed messages. Having had the broad qualities pointed out, you are free to work with or against the cosmic current. But you will only benefit from the universal self-organising process by intentionally and planfully improving on those features as depicted in your birth chart. We only get where we're going by moving in the right direction. Destiny is a matter of Destination.
The Astrological Mercury
Mercury is the articulate messenger - Hermes - master of the networks, change and complexity. He represents mentality: words, thoughts, ideas, communications. But more generally, this is the planet of connections - everything that links and conveys - synchronicity - the magical crossroads at which the observer stands to see the 'similarity of meaning' in the converging strands of various causes and effects. This is the meeting place of mind and matter, where logic, wit and reason are brought into play. The power of thought. The power of words. The ancestor of every action is a thought, and how we say something is often more important than what we say. Words trigger attitudes and set up resonances of their own, continuing to do their work even when the attention is elsewhere. Guided by your Mercury, you begin to construct a bridge between yourself and the world, bringing together all the unique circumstances needed to trigger results that none of them could have produced on their own. Mercury shows how you can 'hijack' people, places and situations to your best advantage - the way you can go about getting your way.
Mercury in Libra
Yours is a reflective mind, a mirror for others. You are equality-minded and easy to talk with - a great mediator or negotiator. You find it easy to accept the ideas and thoughts of others and to hear them out. You are good at relations (politics, diplomacy, sales), not to mention considerate, helpful, courteous and calm.
Mercury Trine Neptune
You are expert at working with words that communicate mystical and mythological ideas. You are at home in these realms and can always manage to bring other-worldly ideas into the practical realms. You would make an excellent teacher of philosophy or religion, for you can't help but communicate these subjects and enchant all who come to know you. Your understanding of the unity behind appearances, along with the ability to put these thoughts into words, is a rare and valuable gift. You would make a good director, for you like working with mental images.
Mercury Trine Jupiter
You enjoy working with your mind and can usually find a solution to even the worst problems. You like to solve puzzles and dilemmas, yours or others'. Your skills in this regard make you expert at counseling and guiding others. Fine verbal skills and a n atural sense of justice makes legal work a distinct possibility. Working with laws, natural or man-made, amounts to a real talent. You also have a great interest in ideas, the more true and lasting the better. Philosophical concepts will be a lifelong concern for you.
The Astrological Venus
Venus is harmony. She symbolises our relationship with all that we meet in the world. When we appraise or appreciate something, whether that be another person or a possession, this is Venus - the sense of love or appreciation we feel. Venus is reciprocity, interaction with others, compromise, reconciliation and balance. She is also our need for approval, and how we seek it - 'we' consciousness and union. This ability to get-it-together is also tested by our talent (or lack of) for developing a sense of wealth and affluence. Venus is what we love, feel comfortable with and what appeals to us. And she has much to do with desires, luxuries and their enjoyment. She is also about making oneself enjoyable. Thus her energy is what has been called the 'courtier spirit', which means being agreeable and smoothing the path. In many ways she shows us how we can get the most, both relationship-wise and financially, out of life. As the planet of balance and resources, Venus speaks to us about the ways one influences the other; for as any successful businessperson will tell you, you must be willing to spend money in order to make it. This is the lifeblood of commerce - there must be an out-going as well as an in-coming flow of energy. Good relationships require give-and-take, as do all successful enterprises.
Venus in Libra
A socialite, you love decorum and etiquette, and relationships are for you the true test of the art of give and take. A peacemaker, preferring to 'break-even' rather than gain ground, you avoid harsh and crude actions, people or things. Reconciling, you truly appreciate care, concern, equality, gentleness, and acceptance. Having the approval of your partner is important to you, as you like to bounce ideas off others to gain a more balanced perspective. Tactical response and counter-support are your harmonising agents.
Venus Trine Jupiter
You have an innate love of the law and working things through, and you are not put off by problems and obstacles. On the contrary, you look forward to solving them. You have the ability to work with others, in particular regarding vocation or career guidance. You can advise and guide in matters requiring work-related decisions. Others find you a generous and loving person. You always share what you find and have a lucky streak too.
The Astrological Mars
Mars is the planet of motivation and drive. It is the self-starting impetus, initiative and energy we need to get moving. When we search for the meaning of something, life or whatever, it is Mars that urges us on and keeps us searching. Mars also drives us against things too, as when it sends us into war and combat. Mars looks for the challenge, takes charge and pushes forward with a pioneering spirit. Mars is purposeful, direct and courageous; where our passion is, there we find the planet Mars. Thus it also has to do with ardor and impulses, and often signifies the sex-drive, especially in a man's chart. Martian energy enjoys becoming involved in the thrust of life - acting promptly on an urge and, within that conviction, creating more trust in its own actions. This is a circular process: The more we trust and act, the more we receive impulses that can be trusted.
Mars in Leo
You are always center-stage and entertaining others. You have an almost fierce sense of pride and are very dramatic and expressive, sometimes forceful. You are a natural at sports, games, anything that "gets it out." Very emotional, you have strong likes and dislikes. You are good with kids, animals -- a teacher or coach. You act it out.
Mars Sextile Saturn
The word here is accomplishment. If there is a job, you can do it. A prodigious worker, you pour yourself into any task with absolute determination. You are responsible to the extreme and take on obligations as though you just can't get enough. You enjoy discipline, and limitations are seen as opportunities rather than as handicaps. You would make a good teacher of others in matters of organization, practical competence, and the like. You have a great desire and drive to be thorough and responsible down to the smallest details.
The Astrological Jupiter
When it comes to an astrology of success and empowerment, some planets are more important than others simply because of their nature. As the planet of outreach and exploration, Jupiter plays a very important role here. The Hindu word for Jupiter is 'Guru' (Teacher), and Jupiter is about having an outlook or belief system - something we can identify with or look forward to. It shows how we search for meaning in our lives, and therefore has much to tell us about our 'ideal' vocation. Jupiter is the guiding philosophy which provides us with our sense of direction and shows us how to approach life's problems. Jupiter is 'conscience', ethics, as well as our opinions and how we form them. It represents our speculations about the world and can tell us much about the process of self-discovery. As the 'lord of opportunity', prosperity, affluence, and all the benefits we earn through our outgoing-ness and out-giving to others, Jupiter's position in your chart is instrumental in determining your capacity for optimism and attracting luck. To enhance Jupiter's benefit in your life, follow the indications of his placement in your chart. In general, by adopting a spread of effort rather than a concentration - by accepting Life's invitations and maximising what they have to offer - by saying 'yes' to the exotic and unfamiliar - we deliberately extend our range of contacts and interests whereby luck can reach us. There is an organic connection between this attitude and the arrival of the good things in life. A note of warning though, you can have too much of a good thing.
Jupiter in Aquarius
A true progressive, especially in community or group work, you are democratic to the point of being radical. You are cool and impersonal when it comes to being fair or just, with a great interest in new trends and world affairs. Application-minded, luck comes to you through planning and being future-oriented.
Jupiter Semisquare Pluto
A career in psychology, areas of the mind and self that are vulnerable and sensitive, is indicated. You not only like change and transforming experiences, you pursue them for their own sake. You head straight for whatever challenges your sense of identity and puts you through changes. This life path could also carry you into subjects like reincarnation, psychic experiences, and all that is occult or hidden from common view. You plunge right in, dig through the whole mess, and leave not a secret unturned. Yours is a career deep in change, transformation, and metamorphosis.
Jupiter Conjunct Neptune
With you, dreams and ideals have become a way of life. You seek to bring them down to earth and make them real. You will, as the song says, never let your dreams depart. Yours is a path of imagination and vision, perhaps leading to a career in music, mysticism, or the arts. You understand the forest behind the trees and the unity beyond all separateness.
The Astrological Saturn
Saturn is the prince of the material world - the planet of materialisation and incarnation, self-containment and personal distinction. Saturn rules the limitations of the world we live in and so indicates where we are bound to learn self-discipline and duty - whether we like it or not! It is the boundaries around us that make identity possible. As time passes, you slowly but surely crystallise a personal identity, distinct and unique from the others around you, by excluding whatever does not seem compatible with your purpose. Each new day adds to this evolutionary sense of 'I', with the object being an increased sense of responsibility. Saturn is said to be the hard taskmaster, the planet that keeps us from getting carried away in one direction or another. And although it seems to limit and undermine, it also defines and clarifies. For it is the process of sedimentation - building layer upon layer with structure and control - whereby we see our ambitions realised. Nothing worthwhile can be accomplished without determination, concentration, persistence, commitment and patience.
Saturn in Virgo
You have a tendency to avoid responsibility or work, and to put off taking care of details - delinquency. Application and practice is the remedy. Be specific. Take care of every last detail. Develop and use your critical faculties. Take care of business.
Saturn Square Pluto
You may have a tendency to avoid sensitive subjects and to take refuge in duties and responsibilities rather than face issues that might disturb you or put you through some changes. You are a stern pragmatist in all that is psychological -- whatever wells up from inside us. Your need for psychological security and absolute truth in all matters cuts through most chit-chat and settles on core material. You concentrate on deep, inner changes in you and in others - depth psychology.
Saturn Opposite Uranus
You find it difficult to be spontaneous, to get away from routine and do something different. Others see in you a creature of routine. Travel may also be hard for you. It is not easy for you to change or to accept changes. When you do enact a change, it is always at the deepest or core level and affects everything else in your life. Once a change is made, it at once becomes a part of you, solid and immovable. Those near you may feel that you inhibit the proverbial "life of the party." Code, computer programming, and the like should interest you.
The Astrological Uranus
To live a full and satisfying life, you must be vividly yourself. Many of us are afraid to be different, and the pressure to conform can be stifling. But to live creatively is to find your own way, even if this means going against the grain. This urge to free-will and self-authorisation is Uranus, the planet of fierce independence. Surprise can be stimulating - the jab that gets you out of the rut. And if you want to ride the wave of chaos instead of being swallowed by it - if you want to liberate yourself from the disruptions and shocks around you - you must voluntarily keep out of the groove. Realise that change is the only constant phenomenon. In randomness is all potential. Disorder increases possibilities. Chance! Uranus is the reverse of the status quo and always unconventional and heretical: If life is accidental, we are free to give it any point we like. Become Yourself!
Uranus in Pisces
You have new insight into all mystical, occult, and religious matters -- a visionary. You find new methods of worship and service. You are very progressive in the areas of philosophy, music, drama, poetry, and the arts. Also innovative in psychology and psychic matters. New dreams, new reality. Movies and films are important.
The Astrological Neptune
Neptune is the desire and ablility to transcend normal consciousness and everyday waking life - to dream the impossible dream. This 'divine discontent' can be the cause of much mischief in itself, for to pursue the Ideal is often to avoid the reality of how things are. But, when it comes to many of the apparently insolvable problems, the Neptunian approach is often the most sensible and practical: Rise above it and get over it! The healthy tendencies of Neptune lie in its ability to see the cosmic humor in almost anything; to laugh at life's absurdities. And sometimes laughter is the only genuine response - the last great act of defiance! This is the art of 'sitting loose to life', which means developing a less resisting, more surrendered attitude in which we expect the best of all unfulfilled possibilities and potentials - and never stop dreaming!
Neptune in Aquarius
The age of Aquarius marks the ideal. The world community networking with itself. Altruism. Religion as science and vice versa. Group work is in full swing. Cooperation. Impersonal sharing. Emotions are controlled and managed. A world of improvement and global co-operatives.
The Astrological Pluto
Pluto is the planet of profound change, starting deep within you and moving toward the surface, often touching upon the most sensitive areas. It's about waking up to the 'hidden things', and doing so by reaching an intensity of awareness whereby, once touched, you have no choice but to change and grow. Pluto is the process of becoming fully conscious of (revealing) what has been happening all around you, even though you may not have been aware of it. Like sex and death - you get to a certain stage in your development and suddenly you realise what's going on. Pluto is first-hand sensitive experiences and times of complete identification with a person, feeling or idea. This is very intense stuff, and to touch upon this material is to go through permanent change and transformation - inner alchemy.
Pluto in Capricorn
Tremendous practical sense and drive cut through all the red tape and exposes the right decisions every time. You may have an ability to organize and manage all that is vulnerable and sensitive in the human psyche and the public mind.
House Activity and Emphasis
Astrologers agree that astrology is first of all the study of the angular relationships between the planets themselves. But this planetary framework is seen to shift and modify itself as the planets slowly move across the backdrop of the signs, the so-called 'fixed stars' which make up the zodiac. As the earth turns daily on its axis, the planets and signs appear to move across our field of vision through what astrologers have termed 'houses'. The sun rises at dawn and can be seen on the eastern horizon, or first house cusp, or ascendant. It reaches 'midheaven' at noon, and sinks below the western horizon at the descendant.
Like the twelve signs of the zodiac, the twelve houses of the horoscope can be viewed as stages in a complete cycle: From the initial thrust of Aries and the first house, to the maximum entropy symbolised in Pisces and the 12th house. They provide clues as to which areas of your life can be given special attention and used depending on the signs and planets residing there. Here is an analysis of the house activity in your chart based on sign and planet emphasis. As you read along, keep in mind that each house represents a department of life, and the sign falling on each house cusp indicates the mode of action applied to the affairs of that house. In other words, the sign on each house cusp, along with any planet(s) contained therein, shows how one deals with the conditions of that house.
The First House
The first house, also called the ascendant or rising sign, is a dharma house and connected with motivation and our approach to life. It also has to do with how we come across to others, thus our appearance and how we make a first impression. The ascendant is the essential stuff that bubbles up in us spontaneously - what is obvious to others as our trademark look or approach. The first house shows our ability to be recognised, how we make a directed effort, and how we exert our will. Cultivate the strategies of this part of your chart to move forward in life.
Aries on the 1st House Cusp
Aries is the sign of pioneers, leaders and 'firsts'. It is impulsive, assertive and spontaneous. It tends to act first, only thinking about what it may have done later. Rushing in where others fear to tread, Aries energy is attention-getting and always provokes a response from the surroundings and from others. It takes decisive action and loves self-reliance.
The Second House
The second house is connected with matters of wealth; how we respond to, enjoy and get in harmony with our surroundings. This is how we hold or acquire things (possessions, material goods, money, and other resources), and how we gain material support and sustenance. The second house refers to how we secure ourselves, how we make a firm foundation, as well as the kind of response we get from life and those around us. Therefore it has much to say about our material rewards.
Taurus on the 2nd House Cusp
Taurus is about drawing on the bounty of the earth, and seeking material security and physical safety there. It is the on-going, enduring, unchanging and preserving element. Hightened sensory input is also important, for it is the mission of this sign to not only find a sense of place within the material realm, but to enjoy it to the fullest, becoming physically aware of, and bonding with the environment.
The Third House
The third house shows how we make connections and communicate with the world. This is where we draw parallels, make comparisons, and sort through it all. A very mental house, it is concerned with finding, gathering, all manner of questioning, articulation and conversation. In short, it symbolises the functions of the rational mind - linking observations and ideas, and using them to our advantage.
Gemini on the 3rd House Cusp
Gemini is concerned with connections, communication and logic -- voice, thoughts, writing, and rational mental processes in general. It is also concerned with making comparisons, 'twins' and duplications of all kinds. Gemini is the communicator, the gossip of the zodiac, the collector of trivia. Gemini energy is unattached, independent, very inquisitive and changable.
The Fourth House
The fourth house is a very emotional house, concerned with matters of comfort and security. Here is how we create the right conditions, the matrix or womb, in which our desires can flourish; the climate necessary for things to grow. It's about receptivity, nurturing and all the self-protective measures we take to ensure a secure base of operations. This is why the fourth house is related to the mothers, all 'mothering' functions, domestic issues and feeling 'at home'.
Cancer on the 4th House Cusp
Cancer is the mother of the zodiac, always making a home, protecting and providing a foundation for others. A sensitive sign where feelings and real experience count more than cold logic, it doesn't get any more physical and emotional than this. Cancer energy is always nurturing, sensitive, tender and moody. It feeds on emotional comforts, and often has a strong attachment to the past and ancestry.
The Fifth House
The fifth house, another dharma or 'life purpose' house, has to do with creativity and warm out-going self-expression. Here is where we find our originality and flair, enthusiasm, and even pride in ourselves, building confidence and self-esteem. This is the life area of personal sovereignty, where we begin to recognise and appreciate our own dynamic and playful nature. All forms of creative expression (including love affairs and offspring) are connected with this house.
Leo on the 5th House Cusp
Leo energy is expressive, vital and exuberant. Often very artistic, and always theatrical and dramatic, this is the sign of creativity and the arts. Warm and big-hearted, Leo lives in full appreciation and celebration of the finer elements of life, bringing a dynamism and enthusiasm to everything it touches. This is the fearless 'becoming' stage, where things are done for their own sake, playfully and with pleasure.
Mars in the 5th House
You are driven to excel in any form of physical and creative expression--sports, theatrics, arts and crafts, whatever. This urge to express yourself, to speak out and be heard, propels you into many an interesting situation.
The Sixth House
The sixth house is the house of physical efficiency. Here we separate the wheat from the chaff; get a sense for what is useful, what is not, and make the best of it. This is the life stage of 'apprenticeship', where we make a connection between mind and matter, adapt ourselves to a situation and then seek to improve upon it. Hence the connection of the sixth house with routine; 'practice makes perfect'. The sixth house shows how well we handle the details of life - our ability to solve problems and get our way.
Virgo on the 6th House Cusp
Virgo energy is analytical and precise, always separating out what is worthwhile and worth supporting from that which is outmoded and of no further use. A mental earth sign, here the mind takes control over matter. This is the sign of 'ways and means', implementation, instrumentation, physical effectiveness and efficiency. Virgo energy is always facilitating, often caring more for others than for itself.
Venus in the 6th House
You like to do things with care and enjoy being discriminating and exact. Your critical faculties are excellent, and you can always pick out what is worth saving and what is not. You appreciate a caring attitude and are service-oriented.
Saturn in the 6th House
Your critical faculties are very keen, and once you turn your analytical light on, you tend to be relentless in your appraisal. This could make working with others difficult because they find you too scrutinizing. But they also know they can rely on you to carry the heaviest load.
The Seventh House
The seventh house, the descendant - opposite of the ascendant - is connected with partnerships, relationships and 'significant others'. Here is where we learn to strike a balance - the art of give and take. All that carries us beyond our personal self (and into an awareness of contradictory or complementary points of view) is symbolized by the seventh house. This is where we respond to the personal needs of others. Therefore marriage and union (yoga) are indicated by this house, as well as one's ability to respond to a marriage partner.
Libra on the 7th House Cusp
Libra energy is always responsive and conciliating, assuming the appropriate reaction or delicately-weighted strategic response to any question or statement. What is sometimes seen as two-faced is only Libra's facility at responding to each in kind, giving both sides equal consideration. This is certainly the social sign, par excellence. Impersonal and impartial, this sign doles out only what is demanded - nothing overdone, but nothing neglected.
Sun in the 7th House
You love the social life and relationships play a major role in your makeup. Close bonds and partnership activity are very important to you. You are at your creative best when you can feel a sense of 'togetherness' with another.
Mercury in the 7th House
You love to communicate and discuss ideas with other people. Your ideas are always fair and impartial, especially when it comes to other people, the social scene. You are at your mental best when you are bouncing ideas off others.
The Eighth House
The eighth house is the house of first-hand transformative experiences and situations - those areas of life that we may not care to face, but we must face sooner or later... the so-called 'inevitables' of life, such as death and taxes. The eighth is also concerned with catharsis; the getting rid of excess parts of ourselves that we no longer need. This house covers initiations of all kinds, as well as activities where we find ourselves transformed toward a more integral position. Thus it also covers any jointly held resources, their problems and their benefits.
Scorpio on the 8th House Cusp
Scorpio is intense, passionate, and very personal. It rushes past superficialities and right to the heart of any matter. A loyal friend but a fanatic foe, this sign does well in politics and all areas where someone who dares is rewarded. Associated with sexual energy, Scorpio loves to get involved, going down deeper, coming up dirtier, and laying bare anything that lies hidden there.
The Ninth House
The ninth house shows where we are willing to go beyond our everyday experience in search of meaning. Traditionally the house of 'long journeys', the ninth house is where we take journeys both of the body and the mind. Philosophy, beliefs, speculation, opinions and how we form them all belong to this house. Any time we reach out, explore new territory, or align our activities with something bigger, we are operating in the realm of the ninth house. Along with Jupiter's position, here is where we can attract luck by keeping open and receptive to opportunities.
Sagittarius on the 9th House Cusp
Sagittarius is nothing if not direct, candid, and to the point, for this sign is always concerned with the absolute truth of the subject at hand. Associated with philosophy, outreach and all things boundless, Sagittarian energy is always welcome in politics as well as social and community endeavors where its basic fairness and expansiveness is helpful.
Pluto in the 9th House
You are passionate in your search for truth and essence. Nothing superficial or ephemeral holds your attention. Your intense analytical approach to life cuts through to the heart of things. This directness may not always endear you to others.
The Tenth House
The tenth house, commonly called the midheaven, is the house of success and glory, practical vision and achieving a public distinction. Therefore one's reputation and career are often connected with this house. The sign on the tenth house cusp, as well as any planets located therein, show how we can strive to be a benefit to - as well as how we can benefit from - society. The tenth house is about having a goal in life and the self-determination to reach it. Here is how we can 'live our calling' and become self-piloting individuals.
Capricorn on the 10th House Cusp
Capricorn is the business head of the zodiac, for it is the very opposite of the emotional Cancer. Given to clear ambition and practical insight and vision, this sign always takes a distanced perspective and a cool appraisal. Deliberate and painstaking, sometimes to the point of austerity, Capricorn loves work and the hard-earned results. Status and material reward are very important.
Moon in the 10th House
You have a natural insight and understanding as to what the public wants. Your career gets all kinds of support from other people, and you feel at home making practical and management decisions. You look to your work for strength and encouragement.
The Eleventh House
The eleventh house is where we put our visions and dreams to work for others. The most future-oriented of the houses, the eleventh shows our hopes and dreams, and the opportunities we may have to reach them; how we can turn our dreams into reality. Therefore this house has always been connected with altruistic and humanitarian goals, as well as having the self-authorization to set them in motion. Inventive and unusual, eleventh house activities often break from conformity, establishing new and unprecedented states of being.
Aquarius on the 11th House Cusp
Aquarius, the sign of humanitarian goals and altruism. Always impartial and nonsectarian, Aquarian energy is communal (even global). The focus is on the goal, and the goal is always one that is for the many and not the few. Thus this sign is connected to far-seeing visions, world views and group work of all kinds. This sign tends towards coolness, independence.
Jupiter in the 11th House
You could make a career out of group or community work, anything involving attempts to bring large-scale and humanitarian dreams and ideas to reality. Your ideals and inner vision keep what is best for everyone ever on your mind.
Neptune in the 11th House
You dream of a world where unity and harmony are a reality. Group or community work with high aims (great altruism) would be ideal for you. Your imagination drives you to make your dreams and inner vision a reality.
The Twelfth House
The twelfth house is where consciousness dawns - the house of the rising Sun. This is the indeterminate state - the chaos before the new impulse - where all is yet unfulfilled potentialities. Traditionally this is the house of 'sacrifice', and is often connected with prisons, betrayal and self-undoing. Although we can choose to become trapped and frustrated by the many obstructions to attaining our dreams, we can also choose to reach outward and upward to a more fulfilled state, transcending the usual down-dragging conditions and rising above difficulties - thus establishing a life nearer our ideal. Here in the twelfth house we have the capacity to attain liberation by using our visionary scope and working creatively with life's intangibles - the power of imagination!
Pisces on the 12th House Cusp
Pisces energy runs deep and toward the mystical -- whatever transcends the everyday world. This sign is understanding, patient and compassionate. Super-sensitive, it tends to absorb it's surroundings like a sponge. The sign is very trusting, accepting and giving of itself for the sake of more important issues. It loves free-ranging activities which allow for some imaginative scope.
Uranus in the 12th House
You could be unconventional in matters of psychology, the psyche, and all that is mystical or spiritual. Unusual ways to help or care for others -- insight into accepting life and self-sacrifice -- are yours.
Lastly, there is no 'one and only' reading of the birth chart. The symbols of your horoscope change as your life changes - they mean one thing in the life of a youngster, and quite another in middle age. The mystery of the astrological symbols, and part of their beauty, is that they are flexible enough to be relevant and fixed enough to be meaningful, allowing you to approach your horoscope again and again with questions about past, present and future concerns.