Astrology Symbols. Astrology is the study of the stars, planets and other celestial objects in order to make predictions about human character traits, world events and future affairs. It is a pseudoscience, and has been proven to hold no basis in fact.
The study of the heavens has been practiced since the 2nd millennium BCE. It likely began as a way to track season changes for the purposes of agriculture that was soon interpreted to involve divine communications from the gods.
Western astrology can be traced back to Mesopotamia in the 19th Century BCE. It was prevalent in Ancient Greece, Rome, the Arab world and, later, throughout Western Europe. Non-Western astrology was also prevalent in the Hindu, Chinese, and the Mayan cultures.
Astrological symbols date back as far as the Byzantine empire, preserved and copied in Ancient Greece and updated and supplemented throughout the European Renaissance.
Modern Western astrology purports to study the influence that cosmic objects, stars and planets and their relative positions in the skies, have on human lives. The position of the sun, stars, moon and planets at the time an individual’s birth is said to affect or mold their personality, romantic relationships, and future prosperity.
Astrology is often associated with systems of horoscopes. Most people in the West are aware of their ‘star sign’, which refers to one of the 12 constellations of the zodiac. The zodiac sign at the time of one’s birth is said to be indicative of the kind of person they will become.
In the modern day, many make a living as ‘professional’ astrologers, providing readings and making predictions for those who consult with them. They use complex charts and angles to divine supposed wisdom from the placement of the stars and planets, in order to form a complex and detailed outline of an individual’s personality, life and future prospects.
Astrology Symbols - Astrology Meanings
Aries
Aries is the first sign of the zodiac and is the symbol of the ram. The symbol consists of two curved lines that form stylized horns. It is one of three fire symbols in the zodiac, and associated with the planet Mars. Those who are born between March and April have Aries as their star sign.
Taurus
Taurus is the second sign of the zodiac and is the symbol of the bull. The symbol consists of an unfilled circle, which has a curved line above it forming stylized horns. It is associated with earth and femininity, as well as the planet Venus. Those who are born between April and May have Taurus as their star sign.
Gemini
Gemini is the third sign of the zodiac and is the symbol of the twins. The twins, Castor and Pollux, are characters from Greek and Roman mythology. The symbol consists of two parallel horizontal lines, between which are two parallel vertical lines, resembling the Roman numeral II. It is associated with air and the planet Mercury. Those who are born between May and June have Gemini as their star sign.
Cancer
Cancer is the fourth sign of the zodiac and is the symbol of the crab. The symbol consists of two circles, from which curved lines emanate, the top moving left to right and the bottom right to left. Cancer is associated with water and the Moon. Those who are born between June and July have Cancer as their star sign.
Leo
Leo is the fifth sign of the zodiac and is the symbol of the lion. The symbol consists of an unfilled circle, from which emanates a line that curves up and downwards to the right, resembling the lion’s tail. Leo is associated with fire and the Sun. Those who are born between July and August have Leo as their star sign.
Virgo
Virgo is the sixth sign of the zodiac and it is the symbol of the maiden (virgin). The symbol consists of an M in which a looped line crosses the line that is furthest right. This is said to resemble the crossed legs of a chaste virgin. Virgo is associated with earth and the planet Mercury. Those born between August and September have Virgo as their star sign.
Libra
Libra is the seventh sign of the zodiac. It is the symbol of the Scales of Justice. The symbol consists of the Ancient Greek symbol Omega above a horizontal line. This is said to resemble a set of balanced scales. Libra is associated with law, fairness and the element air, as well as the planet Venus. Those born between September and October have Libra as their star sign.
Scorpio
Scorpio is the eighth sign of the zodiac. It is the symbol of the scorpion. The symbol consists of the letter M, in which the line that is furthest right ends with a curved arrow. This is said to resemble the scorpion’s tail. Scorpio is associated with water and the planets Mars and Pluto. Those born between October and November have Scorpio as their star sign.
Sagittarius
Sagittarius is the ninth sign of the zodiac. It is the symbol of the archer, a centaur from Greek mythology. The symbol consists of an arrow that moves diagonally upwards from left to right, which is intersected by a shorter diagonal line moving downwards from left to right. Sagittarius is associated with fire and the planet Jupiter. Those born between November and December have Sagittarius as their star sign.
Capricorn
Capricorn is the tenth sign of the zodiac. It is the symbol of the sea-goat, a mythological fish-goat hybrid. The symbol consists of a lowercase N, where the line furthers to the right loops back upon itself. It is said to resemble the hoof of a goat and the tail of a fish. Capricorn is associated with earth and the planet Saturn, while the mythic sea-goat for which it is named is associated with wisdom and water. Those born between December and January have Capricorn as their star sign.
Aquarius
Aquarius is the eleventh sign of the zodiac. It is the symbol of the water-bearer. The symbol consists of parallel wavy lines, resembling the waves of water or energy. Aquarius is associated with air and the planets Saturn and Uranus. Those born between January and February have Aquarius as their star sign.
Pisces
Pisces is the twelfth sign of the zodiac. It is the symbol of the two fish. The symbol consists of two horizontal lines that curve away from each other, connected by a straight vertical line. This is said to resemble two fish caught on a line. Pisces is associated with water and the planets Jupiter and Neptune. Those born between February and March have Pisces as their star sign.
Contra-Parallels
The parallel and contra-parallel are two aspects calculated by reference to degrees of declination above or below the celestial equator. Contra-parallels connect planets that are not elsewhere connected by an aspect. A contra-parallel may also increase the intensity of connection between two points connected by an aspect. It is associated with reflection, perspective and communication – particularly between those qualities associated with the signs connected. The contra-parallel is a stronger force than the parallel.
Parallels
The parallels and contra-parallels are two aspects calculated by reference to degrees of declination above or below the celestial equator. Parallels connect planets that are not elsewhere connected by an aspect. A parallel may also increase the intensity of connection between two points connected by an aspect. It is associated with reflection, perspective and communication – particularly between those qualities associated with the signs connected.
Quindeciles
An aspect is the angle formed between two signs, planets or points in the zodiac chart. Quindeciles form an angle of 165°. It is associated with motivation, uncompromising obsession, determination, and disruption.
Noviles
An aspect is the angle formed between two signs, planets or points in the zodiac chart. Noviles form an angle of 40°. This aspect can represent karmic bondage, an attachment to past events that are holding an individual back. It is associated with idealization and perfectionism.
Septiles
An aspect is the angle formed between two signs, planets or points in the zodiac chart. Septiles form an angle of 51.5°. Septiles are considered mystical, associated with spiritual or energetic energy, and a finer, more subtle reality that is hidden from our own.
Quintiles
An aspect is the angle formed between two signs, planets or points in the zodiac chart. Quintiles form an angle of 72°. This can represent occasion for performative, entertaining or expressive opportunity. It is associated with a strong flow of creative energy between the planets or signs involved.
Sesqui quadrates
An aspect is the angle formed between two signs, planets or points in the zodiac chart. Sesqui quadrates form an angle of 135 °. This aspect is thought to create tension, challenging the individual to work hard, learn and improve. It represents stubbornness and on-going conflict.
Semi-Squares
An aspect is the angle formed between two signs, planets or points in the zodiac chart. Semi-squares form an angle of 45°. It is associated with a stimulating or challenging energy, similar to a square aspect, but less intense and more personal.
Inconjunctions
An aspect is the angle formed between two signs, planets or points in the zodiac chart. Inconjunctions (sometimes called quincunx) form an angle of 150°. They are associated with mystery, creativity, unpredictability, and humor.
Semi-Sextiles
An aspect is the angle formed between two signs, planets or points in the zodiac chart. Semi-sextiles form an angle of 30°. Semi-sextiles are all about the conscious choices we make. The good traits of one sign can offset negative traits of the other, but only through awareness and deliberate action.
Squares
An aspect is the angle formed between two signs, planets or points in the zodiac chart. Squares form a 90° angle. Squares are said to represent between the qualities of the two points to which they refer. They are associated with opportunity, challenge and compromise.
Trines
An aspect is the angle formed between two signs, planets or points in the zodiac chart. Trines form a 120° angle. Trines are considered to be auspicious aspects. They represent luck, harmony, and synchronicity.
Oppositions
An aspect is the angle formed between two signs, planets or points in the zodiac chart. Oppositions form a full 180° angle, meaning two signs are directly opposed to each other. Oppositions are about balance and harmonizing these polar forces over time. They represent common ground, balance and compromise.
Conjunction
A conjunction occurs when two planets are zero degrees apart and, therefore, temporarily within the same sign or area of the zodiac chart. Among astrologers, the belief holds that, if the qualities associated with the two planets are complementary, then this is a positive occurrence. However, if the planets’ qualities are incompatible then this has negative outcomes.
Nessus
Nessus is an asteroid, discovered in 1993. Named after the mythological centaur who was killed by Heracles, and whose tainted blood in turn killed Heracles. Nessus is associated with karma, tyranny, inappropriate sexual contact, or physical or psychological abuse. The symbol represents death, revenge and jealousy.
Pholus
Pholus is an asteroid, discovered in 1992, named after the mythological centaur who was the guardian of wine, intoxication and chaos. Pholus was the second most important of the Centaurs after Chiron. The symbol represents turning points, change and cataclysm.
Eris
Originally thought to be a planet when discovered in 2005, Eris has since been classified as a dwarf planet. Named after a Greek goddess, Eris represents strife and discord. Among astrologers, Eris is associated with self-expression and rebellion.
Lilith
An asteroid named for the first wife of Adam, the first man in the Genesis story. Lilith represents the dark side of femininity, sexual taboo and social transgression. Her symbol consists of a crescent and a cross, representing both mind and matter.
Transpluto
Transpluto is a supposed further planet or celestial body that exists at the extreme edge of the solar system, further from the Sun than Pluto. It has never been observed, but has been proposed to exist based on mathematical calculation. It is associated with criticism, perfectionism, selfishness and self-sufficiency.
Vertex
The Vertex is a celestial location in the western hemisphere calculated as the intersection of the elliptic and prime vertices. It is associated with wishing for significant change, or a turning point. It represents karma and destiny.
Part of Fortune
The Part of Fortune is a location in the sky calculated using the placement of the Sun, Moon and Ascendant. It is associated with health, fitness, and success and prosperity in one’s career prospects. It represents innate talent, as well as personal happiness.
Midheaven
The Midheaven is the zodiac sign and degree that is equidistant between the eastern and western horizon during a specific time and at the specific location of an event. Most commonly, this is the birth of an individual. It is said to tell astrologers something significant about future career prospects, status, and reputation. It is associated with accomplishment and aspiration.
Ascendant
The ascendant is the zodiac sign and degree that is in ascent to the east, during a specific time and at the specific location of an event. Most commonly, this is the birth of an individual. Astrologers hold that the ascendant says something about the dawning of one’s consciousness and signifies new beginnings.
Vesta
One of the four largest asteroids between Mars and Jupiter. Vesta is named for a daughter of Zeus (Jupiter in Roman mythology. Vesta guards and protects home and the household, keeping families safe and secure. She is associated with the eternal flame and represents the internal spark, or life force.
Ceres
One of the four largest asteroids between Mars and Jupiter. She is one of the daughters of Zeus (Jupiter in Roman mythology). Ceres is described as the Earth Mother. She is associated with health, nutrition, agriculture, and fertility. Her symbol represents transition, motherhood and nurture.
Juno
One of the four largest asteroids between Mars and Jupiter. Named after one of the daughters of Zeus (Jupiter in Roman mythology), Juno represents marriage, love, and commitment. She is associated with femininity and loyalty.
Pallas
One of the four largest asteroids between Mars and Jupiter. Named after one of the daughters of Zeus (Jupiter in Roman mythology), Pallas represents warfare, wisdom, skill, and strategy. She is associated with masculinity, logic, and justice.
Chiron
Chiron is a minor planet in the solar system, originally classed as an asteroid. It orbits the sun between Saturn and Uranus. In Greek myth, Chiron was a healer who could heal anyone but himself. Chiron is associated with healing of wounds and wisdom.
South Node
The North Node and South Node of the Moon form the Nodal Axis. They are points directly opposite in celestial space. They are mathematical points, not physical objects, defining the relationship between the locations of the Sun, Moon, and Earth. The symbol, called the “dragon’s head” , consists of an inverted horseshoe shape, a curved lowercase N shape culminating in two small, unfilled circles.
North Node
The North Node and South Node of the Moon form the Nodal Axis. They are points directly opposite in celestial space. They are mathematical points, not physical objects, defining the relationship between the locations of the Sun, Moon, and Earth. The symbol, called the “dragon’s head” consists of a horseshoe shape, a curved U shape culminating in two small, unfilled circles.
Pluto
Pluto is a dwarf planet at the edge of the solar system. The symbol consists of an unfilled circle, cradled inside an upwards facing semi-circle, itself sat atop a cross. In the European tradition, Pluto is associated with wealth and the unseen. In the Indian tradition, Pluto is associated with death and rebirth.
Neptune
Neptune is the planet in the solar system between Neptune and Pluto. The symbol consists of a stylized three-pronged trident. In Greek and Roman mythology, Neptune (Greek: Poseidon) is the god of the sea. In the Indian tradition, Neptune is associated with rain, as well as dreams, illusions, and uncertainty.
Uranus
Uranus is the planet in the solar system between Saturn and Neptune. The symbol consists of a circle within a larger circle, on top of which is an arrow pointing upwards. It combines the symbols for the Sun and for Mars. In the European tradition, Uranus is associated with the sky and the Sun. In the Indian tradition, it is associated with eccentricity, originality, and sudden change.
Saturn
Saturn is the planet in the solar system between Jupiter and Uranus. It is next-largest in size to Jupiter and surrounded by dust rings. Its symbol consists of a long vertical line, intersected by a shorted horizontal line. From the median point of the vertical line, a curved line moves away to the right. It is said to resemble a scythe. In the European tradition, Saturn is associated with agriculture. In the Indian tradition, Saturn is associated with duty, ambition, status and punishment.
Mars
Mars is the planet in the solar system between Earth and Jupiter, known as the Red Planet. Its symbol consists of an unfilled circle, with an arrow emanating from it that points upwards to the right, similar to the male sex symbol. It is said to resemble a sword and spear. In the European tradition, Mars is associated with war. In the Indian tradition, Mars is associated with strength and aggression.
Venus
Venus is the planet in the solar system between Mercury and Earth. Its symbol consists of a circle sat atop a cross, similar to the female sex symbol. In the European tradition, Venus is associated with love, lust and sexual desire. In the Indian tradition, Venus is associated with purity, beauty and fertility.
Mercury
Mercury is the planet in the solar system closest to the Sun. Its symbol consists of a circle sat atop a cross, similar to the symbol for Venus, with an open semi-circle above. In the European tradition, Mercury is associated with travel, messages and commerce. In the Indian tradition, Mercury is associated with masculinity, communication and intellect.
Moon
The Moon represents motherhood and femininity. It is associated with instinct, spontaneity and the unconscious mind. The symbol consists of a crescent moon shape, within a larger circle. It represents security, comfort and safety.
Sun
The Sun represents life-force and the source of all growth. Also, it is associated with happiness, and with the choosing to follow a path of reason, rather than instinct. The symbol consists of a circle within a larger circle. It represents the conscious mind, the will to live and the creative life force in humanity.
