Are you curious about the power of the stars? Do you want to know how the alignment of celestial bodies influence your daily life? Then delve into the world of western astrology with this comprehensive guide. From the basics of what western astrology is, to the 12 zodiac signs and the astrological houses, this guide will tell you all you need to know about the fascinating science of star alignment and how it can help you better understand yourself and the world around you.
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What Is Western Astrology?
Western astrology is predominantly horoscopic, that is, it is a form of divination based on the construction of a horoscope for an exact moment, such as a person’s birth as well as location (since time zones may or may not affect a person’s birth chart), in which various celestial bodies are said to exert influence.
In western popular culture, astrology is frequently limited to sun sign astrology, which solely analyzes the individual’s birth date and the “position of the Sun” at that time.
Western astrology is the most prevalent form of astrology in Western nations.
Historiographically, Western astrology is founded on Ptolemy’s Tetrabiblos (2nd century CE), a continuation of Hellenistic and ultimately Babylonian traditions.
What is the Western approach to Astrology?
Western astrology is a form of divination based on the construction of a horoscope for an exact moment, such as a person’s birth as well as location (since time zones may or may not affect a person’s birth chart), in which various celestial bodies are said to exert influence.
Read what Vedic Astrology is and how it differs from Western astrology
The Zodiac Wheel
Most of us have heard of the zodiac wheel, but how much do we really know about it? Western astrology can be boiled down to the twelve signs of the zodiac wheel, which is divided into four main categories: Fire signs, Earth signs, Air signs, and Water signs. Each of these groups contains three signs, and each sign corresponds with a particular season and set of characteristics.
The Fire signs are Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius. These signs are associated with heat, passion, and energy. People with one of these three signs as their Sun sign will often show higher levels of enthusiasm, courage, and self-assertiveness.
They usually love to be the center of attention and are incredibly passionate about the things they care about.
The Earth signs are Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn. These signs correspond with practicality and being grounded. People who have one of these three signs as their Sun sign tend to be more pragmatic and practical. They take a slower approach to life, as well as having a greater propensity for stability and security.
The Air signs are Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius. These signs are associated with intellectualism and communication. People who are born under one of these signs often have strong communicative and analytical skills. They are also thoughtful and creative, and have a knack for understanding the intricacies of other people.
Lastly, the Water signs are Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces. These signs are associated with emotions, intuition, and compassion. People who are born under one of these three signs often have powerful connection with their emotions and intuition. They are deeply sensitive and empathetic, and show a high level of empathy and understanding when it comes to others.
Knowing the zodiac wheel and the various attributes associated with each sign is a great way to start exploring the world of astrology. Each sign carries with it its own set of characteristics and qualities, and it’s important to take the time to get to know your own sign and the ones that you interact with.
Aries
Aries is the first sign of the zodiac in Western astrology, signifying the beginning of the astrological year. Due to its position at the beginning, Aries is associated with the qualities of newness, energy, and courage.
People born under the sign of Aries tend to have a pioneering spirit, taking the initiative when it comes to new projects and ideas. They are also independent and decisive, often taking the lead in social situations.
Those born under the sign of Aries have many positive and negative qualities that define their personalities. On the positive side, Aries people are enthusiastic and passionate, full of energy and ready to take on any challenge.
They are sharp and witty, and their sharp minds are often able to solve complex problems quickly and efficiently. They are also courageous and full of confidence, always looking to find the best solution to any problem.
On the negative side, Aries people can be too competitive, often pushing themselves and others to succeed. They can also be stubborn and determined, fixated on a single goal or idea regardless of how impractical it is.
They can also be impulsive and impatient, often making decisions without proper planning or thought.
When it comes to relationships, Aries people tend to be loyal and devoted to those they love. They are also passionate and romantic, often looking for an exciting and unique relationship. They are also fiercely devoted to their families and friends, often willing to go the extra mile for their well-being.
In conclusion, Aries is a sign full of energy, enthusiasm, and courage. People born under this sign can be quick-witted and sharp, always looking for the best solution to any problem.
They have strong convictions and are fiercely loyal to those they love. Although they have a tendency to be overly competitive and impatient, Aries is truly a sign of passion and courage.
Taurus
Taurus is one of the twelve zodiac signs of western astrology, located in the second spot in the zodiac wheel. Symbolizing strength and stability, the Taurus is an Earth sign, represented by the bull, which points to their tenacious and strong-willed nature.
People born between April 21st and May 21st are associated with the Taurus sign and are likely to display many of the character traits associated with the sign.
The Taurus would be considered one of the most reliable signs in the zodiac, reliability being one of their greatest assets. They are determined to achieve their goals and will do whatever it takes to get there, no matter how long it might take.
They value hard work, dedication and perseverance, traits which are often the cornerstone of their success. This same strong will and dedication can, however, lead Tauruses to be incredibly stubborn, making it difficult for them to be flexible in situations.
Security is another important aspect of the Taurus. They are often careful with their money, working hard to build financial security, and they like to keep things in an orderly fashion.
They are loyal and reliable, but can also be possessive and uncompromising when it comes to matters of love. They are loyal and dependable, but can also hold grudges and become easily offended.
The Taurus’s practicality serves them well in life. They are logical and make wise decisions, which usually work in their favour in the long run. They are often seen as reliable and dependable, and are often good with money.
They are patient and take things slowly, which is why they can often be seen as reliable and steady in their efforts.
Tauruses are seekers of comfort and pleasure, often investing much time and energy in seeking out enjoyable experiences. They are known for their keen sense of taste and their love of luxury, enjoying the finer things in life.
They appreciate beauty, and often have a great eye for art and design. They are often quite materialistic, but their appreciation for beauty and luxury often serves them well.
Gemini
Gemini, the third sign of the zodiac, is symbolized by the twins, Castor and Pollux, and is ruled by Mercury, the planet of communication.
People born between May 21st and June 21st are known for their dual nature and their ability to adapt to any situation. Geminis are often seen as intelligent and versatile individuals with a great sense of humor and a fondness for games and puzzles.
Geminis have an affinity for debate, and they often find themselves in the middle of an argument, defending both sides. They are excellent at multitasking and tend to be involved in a variety of different activities and projects at the same time.
Geminis also possess a strong sense of curiosity, often asking questions and seeking out new information. Geminis crave knowledge and are often drawn to intellectual pursuits like writing and research.
Geminis have a tendency to be anxious, and they often have difficulty making decisions. They tend to be torn between several options and struggle to choose the best one. Geminis need to take time to really assess a situation before making a decision, as they are prone to making hasty decisions that they later regret.
Friendships are essential to Geminis, who thrive in genuine and open relationships with people they can trust. While they may be indecisive in some aspects of their lives, they are often fiercely loyal to their close friends.
Geminis are also naturally social and enjoy engaging in interesting conversations.
Geminis tend to be emotionally sensitive and intuitive, and they often experience heightened empathy towards people. They are sympathetic to the struggles of others and are often highly empathetic.
They are often drawn to the arts, and many have a natural talent for writing, music, theatre, and other forms of artistic expression.
Geminis are air signs, and they often need to express themselves freely. They enjoy being active, enjoying physical activity and taking part in intellectually stimulating activities. Geminis can often be found in the centre of the room, leading conversations and sparking debates on a wide range of topics.
Cancer
Cancer is the fourth zodiac signs in Western astrology, and is often represented by a crab. This sign is known for its sensitive, caring, and intuitive nature, making them natural empaths, homebodies and nurturers.
Those born under the sign of Cancer are typically strong willed, intuitive, and very perceptive to their surroundings.
Cancer is a sign of the element of water, which is associated with emotions, change, and fluidity. Cancer-born people are natural born nurturers, and often possess an innate connection to the world around them.
As a Cardinal sign, Cancers are often the initiators and take action when it comes to a situation or problem. They may be stubborn, but they are intelligent and always think from the heart first.
Cancer’s natural sensitivity comes from the Moon, an important part of their symbolism.
The Moon represents the maternal and nurturing part of their personality as well as their ability to tap into hidden depths and spiritual matters.
Cancerians could have a successful career in any area that requires empathy and understanding. They are very intuitive, so they tend to pick up on subtle cues and nuances quickly.
Cancerians love their homes and family, and they often take on more responsibility than they can handle. They can cause themselves a great deal of stress if they don’t practice good self-care and maintain strong emotional boundaries.
Despite their tendency to be sensitive and emotional, they are also loyal and reliable. They are also known to be generous and helpful, often taking care of those they love.
Cancerians are naturally creative and often possess the ability to adapt to their environment with ease. They are also quite imaginative and often use their creative side to express themselves.
They are very hard workers and are willing to go the extra mile for their loved ones.
For Cancerians, the biggest challenge is finding their inner balance. Learning how to stay in touch with their feelings and be open to change is important for them to find their life’s purpose.
Learning to trust their intuition and make decisions that are in alignment with their heart is an important part of finding balance and success.
Leo
The zodiac sign of Leo is the fifth sign of the western astrological system, and it is the most powerful and prominent of all the zodiac signs. Individuals born under the sign of Leo are represented by the lion, and they are associated with the element of Fire.
Those born under the sign of Leo are outgoing, confident, ambitious, and highly creative. They tend to be natural born leaders and are known for their generosity and warmth.
Leo individuals have a unique set of characteristics and traits which make them stand out from the crowd. They are passionate and inspiring, often able to bring their visions to life in ways which many others cannot.
Leo individuals have a great capacity for love and loyalty, and they are fiercely protective of their family and friends.
Leo is ruled by the sun, and the sign’s symbol is the lion. These two celestial forces give Leo its distinct personality, making them strong-willed, passionate, and determined individuals. They are innately creative and unafraid to take risk, which makes them excellent candidates for leadership positions.
Leo individuals are also known for their passionate and fiery temperaments. They can quickly go from passionate and loving to angry and hostile, but they can also be quite generous and caring with their loyalty.
Leo individuals benefit most from exploring their own creative potential and following through with their dreams.
Leo is a very powerful sign, and those born under it should make the most of their natural talents. They possess a strong sense of self-confidence and can make an impact on the world with their unique perspectives.
Leo individuals have a strong capacity for love and loyalty, and if they are able to express these qualities in their lives, then they will be truly successful.
Virgo
Virgo is the sixth sign of western astrology and is associated with the element of Earth. Ruled by the planet Mercury, Virgo is an extremely analytical sign that is recognized for its perfectionism and practicality. The symbol of Virgo is the Maiden and is associated with the sign’s association with fertility and growth.
Virgos are analytical and detail-oriented, often focusing on the smaller details in life rather than the bigger picture.
They also tend to be very organized, logical and systematic, preferring to approach tasks in a logical manner rather than relying on instinct or emotion.
Virgos are often quite fussy and can be very critical at times, especially when it comes to the work of others.
Virgos are highly intelligent and are often considered to be the most intellectual of all the signs. They are also quite talented when it comes to finding creative solutions to problems, due to their well-honed analytical skills.
They can be excellent problem-solvers, figuring out complex issues quickly and efficiently.
Virgos are very friendly and kind, traits that are often overlooked because of their critical nature. They are also loyal and reliable and make for great friends. Virgos tend to be very conscientious in all areas of their life and are not afraid to take on challenging tasks, often taking great pleasure from completing them.
When it comes to relationships, Virgos prefer to take their time before committing to someone. They may find it difficult to process their emotions and may need a lot of time and patience before they can open up and express their feelings.
Overall, Virgos are highly analytical, logical and detail-oriented, which makes them excellent problem-solvers and great friends. They have a strong sense of loyalty and can be highly dedicated, making them excellent partners in both friendship and romance. With their highly developed intelligence and creativity, the sign of Virgo is an important asset to any community.
Libra
Libra is the 7th sign of the zodiac that falls within the Western astrology system. It is the seventh sign in the zodiac, symbolized by the Scales. The constellation of Libra is said to represent justice, balance, and harmony and is associated with the air element.
Those born under this sign are often seen as graceful, diplomatic, and artistic with strong connections to both their inner and outer worlds.
Libra is an air sign, so those born under its influence are analytical, intellectual, communicative, and sociable. They are keenly aware of the world around them, easily picking up on other people’s emotions and feelings in order to make informed decisions.
This sensitivity may often lead to indecisiveness, as the need for justice and balance makes it difficult for Librans to move forward. However, this inner struggle often gives rise to a strong sense of creativity and a profound understanding of relationships that is rarely found in other signs.
At its best, Libra is a sign of harmony and equilibrium. But at its worst, it can be seen as a sign of instability and lethargy. Those born under this sign need to be careful to maintain balance in their lives in order to ensure their mental and physical well-being.
A good way to do this is to take time for self-care activities like yoga and meditation. Additionally, developing an interest in the arts or learning about different cultures can help Librans channel their inquisitive nature in a positive way.
Overall, people born under the sign of Libra are naturally inclined towards collaboration and cooperation and strive for peaceful resolutions to the problems they face.
They are adept at recognizing the perspectives of others and utilizing their verbal communication skills to make sure that everyone’s needs are taken into account. When it comes to major life decisions, few signs can match the grace and balance of a Libra.
Scorpio
Scorpio is a water sign represented by the symbol of the scorpion. It is often known for its intense, passionate and powerful qualities, symbolized by the stinger of the scorpion.
People born under the sign of Scorpio often have strong personalities, making them unique and unpredictable. They are highly independent, yet fiercely loyal to those they trust.
Scorpio is ruled by the planet Mars, and often possesses great ambition, determination and courage in their pursuits.
Scorpios find pleasure in small details and often take great pleasure in the pursuit of knowledge. They are highly logical, analytical and critical thinkers, but can also be secretive and mysterious.
When it comes to relationships, Scorpio are known for their passionate and intense nature. They are often attracted to strong and powerful personalities and seek an emotional, spiritual and physical connection.
As a sign that is deeply connected to power and control, Scorpios can be prone to forming intense, possessive relationships. They often have a tendency to be suspicious, jealous and controlling.
Scorpio are often seen as the “dark horse” of the zodiac, due to their ability to turn seemingly mundane situations into powerful, meaningful experiences.
They face life with a bold ambition, often spiritually guided in their pursuit for success and personal freedom. With their magnetic personalities, Scorpios often have a unique way of viewing the world and a spirited approach to life.
Overall, Scorpios are seen as intense, passionate and mysterious, with an unparalleled drive and ambition that makes them stand out from the rest.
They possess the courage and strength to take on any challenge and are ready to face the world head-on. Scorpios are the sign of transformation and will often push the boundaries of life to achieve something extraordinary.
Sagittarius
Welcome to the comprehensive guide to Western Astrology and the sign of Sagittarius! Represented by the archer, Sagittarius is the ninth sign of the zodiac and is associated with the element of Fire.
Those born under this sign have a keen sense of adventure and are usually optimistic and independent. They are often spontaneous and have a strong desire for exploration and knowledge.
The symbol of Sagittarius is the Archer, which represents the energy of this sign’s fiery nature. Adventurous, playful, and always on the move, those born under this sign typically project a sort of confidence and ambition that can be quite contagious.
In general, Sagittarius is represented by the keywords of exploration, development, and adventure. Those with this sign can be quite independent, often preferring to work alone or lead their own projects. They are also quite open to change and are drawn to uncovering the unknown.
In relationships, Sagittarius is highly social and loves to be in the company of others. They have a natural ability to connect with people and enjoy engaging in intellectual conversations and debates.
However, their tendency to be over-confident can sometimes lead them to miss important details in their relationships, and they may need to work on active listening skills.
When it comes to career, Sagittarius is ideal for positions that involve exploration and travel. They are often great entrepreneurs, as their ambition and willingness to take risks can be quite beneficial in a professional setting.
They may also be drawn to careers relating to education, law, or religious services.
In conclusion, Sagittarius is a sign that encourages exploration and adventure. Those born under this sign tend to be quite independent and ambitious, although they need to remember to stay grounded and humble.
With their natural charisma, they are able to easily connect with others and make great entrepreneurs.
Therefore, understanding the sign of Sagittarius is essential to navigating the world of Western Astrology. Hopefully, this guide has provided a comprehensive overview of this sign and its many strengths.
Capricorn
Capricorn is the tenth sign of the zodiac in western astrology, representing those born from December 22nd to January 19th. Influenced by the planet Saturn, Capricorn is known for being responsible and reliable, ambitious and intelligent, and hardworking and tenacious.
People born under the sign of Capricorn are often described to be down to earth, practical and disciplined. They are ambitious and work hard to meet their goals. They are also known to be loyal and trustworthy, protective of family and friends, and may possess an aptitude for business.
Capricorns take pride in their achievements, but can also be too hard on themselves if they don’t meet the high standards they set for themselves. It’s important for them to learn to forgive themselves and find joy in their accomplishments.
Capricorns may struggle with insecurity and fear of failure, so it’s important for them to take a step back and assess the success of their efforts objectively. They should also learn to take criticism as a gift and use it as an opportunity to grow.
Capricorn traits are often misunderstood. People born under this sign are strong and resilient, but can also be sensitive and caring. They have a deep sense of justice and may be highly competitive. Their hardworking nature is admirable, and they can be incredibly generous and thoughtful when given the chance.
Capricorn is an earth sign, so those born under this sign are grounded and connected to the material world. They are often focused on the present, but can still find the time to plan for the future.
In conclusion, Capricorns are hardworking and ambitious, practical and reliable. They take pride in their accomplishments, but should strive to find balance and enjoy life in the present.
They can be competitive and focused, but are also sensitive and caring. Those born under the sign of Capricorn are sure to make their mark on the world.
Aquarius
Aquarius is one of the twelve zodiac signs of Western astrology. Those born under the sign of Aquarius are often referred to as the ‘water-bearers.’ People born between January 20 and February 18 are considered to have Aquarius as their sun sign.
Aquarius is a unique, independent, and inventive sign, which makes them quite unique. They are often quite unconventional and sometimes misunderstood.
They have a natural curiosity and a willingness to try out new ideas. They don’t feel confined by cultural norms or traditional ways of thinking and are always looking for ways to challenge the status quo.
Aquarius is ruled by the planet Uranus, which is often associated with disruption and surprise. Those born under this sign often have an urge to free themselves of anything that is limiting or oppressive.
This can manifest in their choices of careers, relationships, and lifestyle. Although they may be rebellious and non-conforming, they are usually quite progressive in their thinking.
Aquarius’s symbol is the water bearer, which reflects the sign’s natural inclination towards humanitarianism. People born under this sign are often drawn towards humanitarian causes and are willing to go out of their way to help their fellow humans. They may also have a strong affinity for the natural elements and the environment.
Overall, people born under the sign of Aquarius are creative, independent, and full of originality. They are always looking for ways to break free of oppressive structures and ways of thinking. They are often humanitarian and progressive in their ideas and actions.
Pisces
Pisces is the twelfth astrological sign of the zodiac in Western astrology. This Water sign is associated with the planet Neptune and its ruling house is the 12th house.
Those born under this sign are often very compassionate, intuitive and sensitive. Pisceans are imaginative and creative, and their deeply emotional nature helps them to connect with their emotions and the emotions of others.
The symbol of Pisces is the two fishes, which symbolize the dual nature of this sign. Pisceans are strongly influenced by both the Moon and Neptune, and this dual influence gives them a unique combination of both intuition and emotion.
They are often drawn towards the spiritual and the metaphysical, and they are very good at understanding and empathizing with the feelings of others. Pisceans are also known for their dreamy and romantic nature, and they excel in the world of art and creativity.
Pisceans are very loyal and dependable, and they are highly sensitive to the needs of their friends and loved ones. They are excellent listeners and understand the unspoken, which can be both a blessing and a curse.
They often put the needs of others before their own, and this can lead to burnout if they are not careful. Pisceans are creative and have an eye for beauty and detail, which is why they often excel in creative professions.
Pisceans can be very vulnerable and sometimes too trusting, which makes them easy targets for manipulators. They need to remember to practice good boundaries and to protect their own emotional well-being. It is important that they learn how to express their needs and wants, and to not be afraid to say no when they need to. Pisceans need to take time to nurture and honor their emotional needs in order to remain balanced and grounded.
All in all, Pisceans are highly intuitive and compassionate souls who possess a deep understanding of feelings and emotions. They are creative and talented, and can be an asset to any team or friendship circle.
Pisceans have a strong connection with the spiritual and metaphysical realms and often excel in creative endeavors. With a little self-care and boundary setting, Pisceans can use their compassionate and intuitive nature to create a beautiful and meaningful life.
Astrological Houses
Western astrology is based on the notion that the Earth is at the center of the universe, and therefore the movements of the planets, sun, and moon can be used to gain insight into an individual’s life.
Astrological houses are a key part of the system, used to map the location of each zodiac sign in relation to the Earth.
In astrology, the term “houses” refers to the two hemispheres of the sky. Houses are divided into thirty-six sections known as “signs”, with each sign representing a particular aspect of life.
The twelve signs of the zodiac are divided into four groups: fire, earth, air, and water. Each sign is associated with a different area of life, such as family, career, health, or love. Each house has a designated ruler that governs its meaning.
The most common house system used in western astrology is the Placidus system, which is based on the ascendant, or rising sign, which is the sign of the zodiac that was rising on the eastern horizon at the exact time of the individual’s birth. The ascendant is used to start the house system, and each house thereafter is based on the location of the planet in relation to the ascending sign.
The houses are divided into four distinct categories: angular, succedent, cadent, and intercepted. Angular houses represent the starting point of a person’s life, such as the first house representing the beginning of a person’s journey.
Succedent houses are considered the middle of a person’s life, whereas the tenth house is associated with career and fame.
Cadent houses are the end of a person’s life, with the twelfth house representing the ending of a cycle.
Interceptions are tricky, as they are often considered “in-progress” houses that may have some negative connotations.
The importance of the houses in western astrology can’t be overstated. They represent each individual’s journey through life, and provide insight into their character, goals, and motivations.
As such, it is important to understand the meaning of each house and how it affects one’s life.
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Julianne has a bachelor’s in communication and journalism working with Psychic Spirituality & Relationships. She has also practiced numerology, tarot, and other psychic arts.