The ABCs of Astrology

In this particular episode, we’re going to explore the whimsical side of astrology by examining the ABCs of this mystical discipline.

Each letter of the alphabet will feature a chosen astrological component but be aware that not all aspects will be covered.

To illustrate, the letter C could stand for Chart, Cancer, Conjunction, Chiron, or Capricorn, and there are likely numerous other astrological terms that readily come to mind.

Without further ado, let’s begin our journey with the letter A.

A is for Aspects

In astrology, aspects refer to the angular relationships between celestial bodies in a birth chart.

These relationships, determined by the degrees of separation between planets, reflect specific energetic connections and influences.

Aspects reveal the dynamic interplay between various planetary energies, shaping an individual’s personality traits, potentials, and life experiences.

They can indicate harmonious or challenging interactions, highlighting areas of strength, challenges, and opportunities for growth.

Common aspects include conjunctions (when planets are close together), squares (90-degree angles), trines (120-degree angles), and oppositions (180-degree angles).

The nature of the aspect determines the nature of the interaction, influencing the overall astrological interpretation.

D is for Descendant

The descendant, located on the western horizon at the time of your birth, holds significance in your chart.

It symbolizes several facets, including your life partner and the qualities you seek in a companion.

This point highlights the characteristics, values, and attributes you desire in a significant other.

It provides insights into your ideal partner’s traits and helps shape your expectations in relationships.

The descendant plays a crucial role in understanding the dynamics of your partnerships and the type of connection you seek in your journey through life.

E is for Ephemeris

An ephemeris is a table or data set that provides the positions of celestial objects, such as planets, moons, and stars, at specific times.

It contains information on their coordinates, distances, velocities, and other relevant parameters.

Ephemerides play a crucial role in astrology, where they provide information for horoscope charts and planetary alignments.

Overall, ephemerides are vital tools for understanding and navigating the celestial realm.

F is for Fixed Stars

Although all stars are in motion, some appear stationary to us, and we refer to them as fixed stars.

The Four Royal Stars of Persia, including Fomalhaut, Antares, Aldebaran, and Regulus, are considered the primary fixed stars.

They are also known as the watchers of the four cardinal points of North, South, East, and West.

Currently, all of these magnificent stars are located in fixed signs, indicating their significant influence on human affairs.

G is for Glyphs

Glyphs in astrology are symbolic representations used to denote celestial bodies, zodiac signs, and other astrological elements.

Each glyph has a unique design that captures the essence of its corresponding entity.

These symbols serve as a concise and universal language in astrology, enabling astrologers to communicate and record information efficiently.

Glyphs are essential for constructing birth charts, where they represent planets, asteroids and other celestial points.

They are also used to represent zodiac signs, planetary aspects, and other astrological factors in charts and diagrams.

By utilizing glyphs, astrologers can convey complex astrological concepts quickly and accurately, enhancing the understanding and interpretation of astrological systems.

H is for Houses

Houses, alongside signs, form one of the fundamental pillars of astrology.

Astrologers must possess a comprehensive understanding of the significance of houses and the meaning each planet holds within them.

Mastering this knowledge requires time and dedication due to its vast scope. However, the endeavor is immensely rewarding.

For those practicing writing horoscopes, a thorough comprehension of houses becomes indispensable.

It serves as a vital tool for deciphering the intricate dynamics between celestial bodies and human lives, enriching the accuracy and depth of astrological interpretations.

I is for Immun Coeli

In astrology, the Immum Coeli (IC) is a significant point in the birth chart representing the bottommost part of the sky at the time of an individual’s birth.

It is often associated with one’s roots, family, and private life.

The IC signifies the foundation of one’s being, including their upbringing, ancestry, and emotional core.

It influences the person’s sense of security, innermost desires, and personal connection to their home and family.

Understanding the Immum Coeli helps astrologers gain insights into a person’s psychological and emotional foundations, enabling them to explore the deep-seated influences that shape an individual’s sense of belonging and personal identity.

J is for Jupiter

Jupiter stands out in my astrology ABC as the largest planet by a significant margin.

It boasts an impressive number of satellites and is renowned for its iconic Great Red Spot.

Associated with growth, luck, and all things expansive, Jupiter holds dominion over the signs of Sagittarius and traditionally rules Pisces.

These two signs are bicorporeal, symbolized by dual entities within each: Sagittarius depicts a man and a horse, while Pisces showcases two fish.

Jupiter’s influence extends to all that is grandiose and abundant, amplifying the qualities of these signs and emphasizing the multifaceted nature of their symbolism.

K is for Kepler

Johannes Kepler established three laws of planetary motion, and his second law holds particular relevance for astrologers.

This law states that a planet will cover equal areas in equal times.

Consequently, when a planet is closer to the Sun in its orbit, or at perihelion, it moves more rapidly through the zodiac signs.

In contrast, when it is farther away at aphelion, its movement through the signs is slower.

For example, Pluto’s orbit brings it close to the Sun in Scorpio and farther away in Taurus.

Therefore, it takes twenty years for Pluto to transit Scorpio, but it takes forty years to transit Taurus, underscoring the impact of Kepler’s second law on astrological calculations.

L is for Local Mean Time

Local mean time, an essential component in manual chart calculations, required determination in the past.

It differs from standard time within a specific time zone.

Local mean time refers to the time in your specific geographic location, accounting for the variations in longitude.

Prior to the convenience of standardized time zones, individuals had to calculate their local mean time based on their specific longitude.

This adjustment allowed for more accurate astrological chart calculations, taking into account the precise positioning of celestial bodies at the moment of an individual’s birth in their particular location.

M is for Midheaven

The Midheaven, a potent and influential point situated at the pinnacle of every chart, holds significant meaning.

It represents one’s highest achievements and honors, reflecting their endeavors in the public sphere and their notable contributions.

This point sheds light on an individual’s professional pursuits, public image, and the activities for which they are recognized.

It plays a crucial role in shaping one’s reputation, be it for positive acclaim or even notoriety.

The Midheaven serves as a compass, guiding astrologers to gain insights into an individual’s standing in the world and their prominent role, or not, in society.

N is for Nodes

The nodes, also known as the lunar nodes, constitute a pair of points in any chart where the path of the Moon intersects with that of the Sun.

These nodes are present in every chart and gradually regress or move retrograde through the zodiac, though they may occasionally remain direct or stationary for brief periods.

The North node implies forthcoming opportunities and one’s future destiny, while the South node signifies the relinquishment of certain aspects or circumstances and points to one’s past experiences.

By analyzing the placement and movements of these nodes, astrologers can gain insights into an individual’s karmic journey and provide guidance for their path ahead.

O is for Orbs

Orbs function as tolerances in astrology, indicating the degree range within which two celestial bodies can form an aspect.

A narrow or tight orb refers to a range of less than one degree, while a wider orb typically extends to about eight degrees for aspects like conjunctions, oppositions, trines, and squares.

The tighter the orb, the stronger and more precise the aspect is considered to be.

A wider orb allows for a more lenient interpretation, acknowledging the potential influence of the aspect even if the exact degree alignment is not as precise.

Orbs provide astrologers with flexibility in assessing the strength and significance of planetary aspects within a birth chart.

P is for Planets

The planets within a chart embody the energetic forces at play.

Their placement indicates areas of activity and significance.

As planets occupy houses, they infuse vitality and meaning into them.

Planetary positions in signs can determine their state of happiness or lack thereof, which is influenced by their essential dignity.

This reflects how well a planet aligns with the qualities and characteristics of a given sign.

Essentially, the planets serve as active participants, shaping the dynamics and expressions within a chart, with their location and essential dignity providing valuable insights into their influence and impact.

Q is for Quadrants

The four quadrants are defined by two axes: the Ascendant and Descendant, as well as the Midheaven and IC.

• The first quadrant lies below the Ascendant and represents the realm of the private self.
• The second quadrant lies below the Descendant, embodying the private interactions with others.
• The third quadrant sits above the Descendant, symbolizing the public interactions with others.
• The fourth quadrant resides above the Ascendant, denoting the public self and one’s outward presence.

R is for Retrogrades

With the exception of the Sun and Moon, all planets undergo retrograde motion.

Mercury retrogrades three times annually, Venus retrogrades five times within an eight-year period, and Mars retrogrades approximately once every two years.

The remaining planets experience retrograde motion each year.

The outer planets enter retrograde from their trine aspect to the Sun, continue through the opposition, and conclude at the subsequent trine.

When the outer planets are opposite the Sun, they are all in retrograde.

Retrograde periods add unique dynamics to planetary influences, providing astrologers with valuable insights into the complexities of planetary energies and their impact on individuals’ lives.

S is for Sun Signs

Sun signs are the gateway to astrology as everyone is familiar with their own Sun sign.

It’s usually the first thing people learn about astrology.

Even individuals who are not into astrology are aware of their Sun sign and read horoscopes related to it in the media.

Your Sun sign is determined by the position of the Sun on the day of your birth, such as being in Gemini if your birthday falls between May 21 and June 20.

The signs are categorized into polarities, elements, and modes.

T is for Transits

When beginning the study of astrology, one of the first forecasting techniques introduced is the use of transits.

In fact, many astrologers solely rely on transits for their forecasting practices.

Transits focus on the current and future positions of planets, providing insight into their movements in the upcoming weeks, months, or even years.

By observing where the planets are presently and where they will be in the future, astrologers can gain valuable information about the potential influences and developments in an individual’s life.

Transits serve as a foundational tool for forecasting, enabling astrologers to analyze the dynamic interplay between celestial bodies and their impact on an individual’s chart.

Author Bio

Alison encourages you to explore your unique creativity and live a satisfying life through your personal astrology. She offers her insights from the heart and with a sense of humor.

Go here to read more about Alison’s story.

If you want to send Alison a quick message go here.

More Articles

If you enjoyed this post, you may like some more astrology related articles from our blog.