Planetary Bodies (TimePassages) Flashcards
Saturn
Saturn
The beautiful and severely wind beaten Saturn is the sixth planet from the Sun and the seventh and last “planet” of ancient astrology. The celebrated day Saturday gets its name from the planet, and it is known for it’s prominent and stunning ring system, consisting mostly of ice particles, rocky debris, and dust. Although the ancient order had no telescopes to see Saturn’s famous rings, Saturn still became known as the planet of boundaries, which is symbolized by the ring. Saturn is the second largest planet in the Solar System, after Jupiter. It was named after the Roman god Saturnus, equated to the Greek Kronos, the Titan father of Jupiter/ Zues. Saturn’s astrological symbol represents this god’s sickle, as well as the elevation of the cross of Matter above the semi-circle and openness of Spirit.
Saturn is the ruler of Capricorn, and is the planet of limitation and restriction. This can include themes of responsibility such as self-discipline, punctuality, and the conservation of material resources. While Jupiter represents the notion of broadening and expansion, Saturn suggests setting parameters and restriction. It brings structure and meaning to the world around us, and reminds us of our responsibilities and commitments. Because of this, Saturn is frequently associated with our Fathers, or other authority figures. While discipline isn’t always easy or pleasant, it can sometimes help us grow. Embracing and understanding the challenges of the responsibilities in our lives helps us to expand ourselves out of the foundation of structure!
Jupiter
Turbulent Jupiter is a gas giant - meaning that it is not composed of rock or other solid matter. It is the third brightest object in the night sky after the Moon and sparkling Venus, and is the largest planet within the solar system. Jupiter’s outer atmosphere is home to a massive storm called the “Great Red Spot” that has existed since at least the seventeenth century! Jupiter was named after the Roman God, and served as the patron deity of the Roman State. In other words, Jupiter ruled over laws and social order much like Zeus for the Greek State.
In astrology, Jupiter is the planet of faith, positivism, hope, and morality. It rules Sagittarius and is exalted in Cancer. Jupiter represents the principle of expansion, versus contraction (as represented by Saturn), and the aspirations of the higher self. This could include a sense of humor, good will, or mercy. On the flip side, Jupiter can also be associated with irresponsibility in the form of blind optimism and overindulgence. Its position in the chart indicates how one’s faith, generosity, and tolerance will be expressed, as well as what modes of activity will stimulate self-confidence and wisdom.
Mercury
Tiny Mercury is the innermost and smallest planet in the solar system and can only be seen at morning and evening twilight. Because of this, the ancient Greek astronomers believed the planet to be two separate parts - one visible only in the morning which they called Apollo, and one visible in the evening, which they called Hermes. Later, the Romans named the planet after the God Mercury, a messenger and God of trade, profit and commerce. The astrological symbol for the planet Mercury is taken from this God’s wand or caduceus, which is typically depicted as a short herald’s staff entwined by two serpentine creatures, and which in later antiquity became the astrological symbol for commerce. A variation of this caduceus has come to symbolize medicine in modern times.
Mercury represents the mind and intellect, and rules Gemini, (the sign of duality), and also Virgo. It has it’s exaltation in Aquarius. Mercury is an airy planet, associated with all forms of communication and the in-flow and out-flow of intelligence and communication. Its position indicates how your mental function will be expressed, and where techniques and skills are available to you.
Mercury retrograde, which occurs three times a year for about three weeks each time, is interpreted particularly strongly. Mental pursuits and connections break down. The Mercury retrograde period is best used as a time for inner reflection. It is not a good time for making new decisions or new business plans, but it is ideal for reflecting on your current situation. It is best to quietly observe your inner process during Mercury retrograde, and to carry forward with your preexisting plans. Ask yourself: Where am I heading in my life at this particular juncture? Then try to move forward with new directions only after Mercury has gone direct, and perhaps even a fortnight beyond, when Mercury has left its retrograde shadow.
Venus
Venus, or the Greek Aphrodite, is the Goddess of love, beauty, and relationship. The planet probably gets her name because she is so very bright and beautiful! Venus is in-taking, rather than out-going (as represented by Mars), and rules the signs Libra and Taurus. Venus has its exaltation in Pisces, and is associated with aesthetics, beauty, refinement and romance. Its position in the chart indicates the area in which the give and take of love, affection, and sensual pleasure will be expressed. The position of Venus also shows a person’s perception of relationship and affection. Or, the qualities and expressions of affection that someone may be most receptive to, or comfortable with. A person with Venus in Leo may have a much different perception of love and romance than a person with Venus in Cancer! Wherever she lies in your chart, or that chart of your lovers and friends, she is sure to play a big role in your romantic endeavors, quest for beauty, and potential for love!
Mars
Mars is the fourth planet from the Sun, and is named after the Roman God of War. It is also referred to as the “Red Planet” because of its reddish appearance as seen from Earth. It is the site of Olympus Mons, the highest known mountain in the solar system, and of Valles Marineris, the largest canyon.
In astrology, Mars is the planet of outward activity and animal passion including our sexual drive, aggression, and anger. Mars rules Aries and is exalted in Capricorn. This fiery planet is masculine in action, versus the softer more receptive and romantic Venus. When strong in the chart it can indicate a volatile temper, and also great courage. Its position indicates how your personality will assert itself, and what modes of activity will stimulate your physical energies, or your anger. By house, Mars represents where you will assert yourself, and where you will take action in the most positive sense.
Pluto
Pluto has recently been termed a “dwarf planet” by a convening of the International Astronomical Union in Prague. Of course, this does not diminish its importance for astrologers. Since there is a well-established body of research on the very distinctive effects of Pluto in natal charts, by transit, and in combination with other transiting outer planets, we will go on just as always. It does mean that newly designated “dwarf planets” such as Eris and Ceres will be given a seat at the table, and are likely to become better understood as astrological symbols before much more time has passed.
Pluto was discovered in 1930 as a result of an extensive search by astronomer Clyde Tombaugh. Some astronomers have long argued that Pluto’s small size, less than one-fifth the diameter of Earth, and a weird tilted orbit that takes it inside Neptune every couple hundred years, make Pluto more like a Kuiper Belt body than a full-fledged planet. On August 24, 2006, the International Astronomical Union passed a new definition of planet that excludes Pluto and puts it in a new category of “dwarf planet.” From an astrological perspective, however, little Pluto is just as strong as ever! The famed God of the Underworld (in Greek mythology the corresponding God is Hades), Pluto is a force for change that can be destructive in its power. Pluto rules Scorpio, and is exalted in Leo. Pluto is related to will, and intense passion, and has a reputation for ruthlessness. As God of the Underworld, Pluto can help to bring our deepest and most buried compulsions into the light. Its position indicates areas of life that must ultimately become transformed as part of the soul’s evolution.
On the lighter side, Pluto is associated with renewal and rebirth. It represents endings and new beginnings, as well as spiritual growth and rebirth. Negative expression of Pluto is an obsessive desire for power and control and general destructiveness. A positive expression is the ability and desire to transform. In a chart, the position of Pluto by sign will be shared with other people in the same generation due to the comparatively slow movement of Pluto, the outermost planet, in the heavens. By house, the position of Pluto shows where individuals search for truths and deeper meaning. This area of life may be associated with change, upheaval, power struggles, and issues of control. Pluto in aspect to other planets in the chart colors those energies with obsessive qualities, power struggles, the need to find deeper meanings, and willingness to explore and examine. Where we find Pluto in the chart is where we either seek change and transformation, or have it thrust upon us if we refuse to accept our deepest needs. If we fear Pluto’s energy, or our “dark” side, destructiveness (both directed at ourselves or others) can be a byproduct.
Neptune
Neptune is the eighth planet from the Sun in the Solar System, and is seventeen times the mass of Earth. While Neptune boasts the strongest winds of any other planet in the solar system, it also has an intense bright blue appearance that is attributed to trace amounts of methane in its atmosphere. The planet is named after the Greek God of the Sea Poseidon, and its astrological symbol is a stylized version of Poseidon’s mighty three pronged trident.
Both God of the sea and the ruler of Pisces, Neptune finds exaltation in Cancer. Neptune, associated with universal love, is said to be the higher octave of Venus, which rules individual love. Neptune represents the universal ocean of oneness with all beings. Therefore, Neptune is highly compassionate, idealistic, and imaginative. It is considered a planet of inspiration, dreams, and psychic receptivity. Neptune rules spirituality, and all things subtle. The more negative manifestations of Neptune include deception, trickery, deceit, guilt, and addiction associated with drugs, alcohol, or even media and fantasy. Its position in a person’s chart would indicate where there may be confusion or illusion, and also great creativity in the poetic and musical fields.
Earth
Earth: • Feminine • Planet of • God of • Earth planet
The Sun
The Sun represents the Self, one’s way of being in the world. It can represent, on different levels, both the ego and the higher Self or soul purpose. It rules Leo and is exalted in Aries.
The Sun is the most important ‘planet’ in the chart and symbolizes one’s will and sense of vitality. When the Sun is afflicted (poorly placed or poorly aspected) it could indicate problems with the father, or male role model.
The symbol for the Sun comes from ancient times, and is very similar to the Jungian symbol for individuation. This is because the Sun represents the hero archetype, which can be read as the story of transcending the little self, or ego, in favor of greater integration and the true Self. In myth, the hero typically must meet and overcome obstacles on his or her quest, which in natal charts can be indicated by the planets that make close aspects to the Sun, especially the stressful ones.
The Sun energizes your entire chart, and planets in close relationship to the Sun (by planetary aspect) are emphasized in your personality. If your Sun is prominent in your chart, you will exhibit great power to do and to be.
The Moon
The Moon represents the personal self, the feelings and the unconscious. It is a reflection of the true self, represented by the Sun. The Moon also stands for security and instinctual or habitual patterns, as well as the ability to relate to others, and to be nurturing to others. The Moon rules Cancer and is exalted in Taurus. It is often contrasted with the Sun as the female receptive principle versus the masculine or positive principle. The Moon represents the feminine and nurturing part of oneself. In a male chart, the Moon represents the feminine within, or the anima and also indicates the type of partner you will attract. The Moon also represents an attunement from the past, which operates at an instinctive or habitual level in your present life.
Uranus
Uranus, the seventh planet from the sun, is known as one of the “ice giants,” along with Jupiter, Saturn and Neptune. This is because its atmosphere contains a high proportion of “ices” such as water, ammonia, and methane, and partly because it is the coldest planetary atmosphere in the Solar System, with a minimum temperature of around negative 371 degrees Fahrenheit. It is named after the ancient Greek deity of the sky, the father of Kronos (Saturn) and grandfather of Zues (Jupiter). However, it has been argued that Uranus finds more mythological relevance in Prometheus.
The astrological Uranus rules Aquarius and is exalted in Scorpio. It is known as the planet of freedom and revolutionary vision, the urge for change, and the ability to visualize new possibilities. Jeff Green has referred to this energy quite appropriately as “freedom from the known.” In its astrological symbolism Uranus typically defies tradition and embraces change and originality. It is also associated with the coming Age of Aquarius and rules the Internet, mental studies, technology, electricity, and Astrology! Its position in your chart indicates the arena of originality and freedom from conventional thinking in your life.
Chiron
Chiron is a small planet, or ‘planetoid’ that was only discovered in 1977, and which has already shown itself to be quite powerful in an individual’s chart. Occupying an eccentric orbit between Saturn and Uranus, and named for the centaur physician of Greek myth who taught ancient wisdom to mankind, Chiron represents the archetype of the “Wounded Healer” and is associated with shamanism and going within to heal oneself. Its discovery is synchronous with the rise of the holistic health movement. Chiron’s position in the chart reveals where one has been wounded, and where also there is the opportunity for discovering healing from within and sharing this discovery with other people, since from our wounds arises our compassion for the suffering of others. The position of Chiron, by house and sign, can also show where we have talent and access to ancient wisdom, as well as where we may depart from the mainstream in service to a higher practicality. Those with prominent Chiron are likely to be educators and spiritual healers.
Eris
This is the first trans-Pluto planet to be named, and was termed a ‘dwarf planet’ along with, famously, Pluto. Eris was discovered in 2005 from plates going back to 2003, and was originally nicknamed Xena. In the way of popular myth replacing ancient, Eris is the only planet-type object that was temporarily named for a television drama heroine. The official designation dates from the fall of 2006, and taps once again into the pantheon of Olympian figures described by the Greeks and Romans. This planet, well beyond Pluto, has an orbital period of 556 years, and increases the size of the solar system to double the original diameter. So far as can be determined at this time, Eris represents the first of a series of astronomical objects to be named in the 21st century paralleling the discovery of Pluto in the 20th, Neptune in the 19th and Uranus in the18th. The mythological Eris, goddess of Strife and Discord, was the sister of Mars, god of war, and willingly accompanied him into battle. She was also the cause of the Trojan War. Jealous of being left out of a wedding, she threw the golden apple of discord into the gathering. When the dust had settled, Paris had abducted Helen and the war was on. It is too early to make a definitive statement regarding all the meanings of this new planetary archetype, but some preliminary indications are as follows. Among the astrological meanings that can be attributed to Eris is one who struggles against injustice and oppression. She has her war-like and even bloodthirsty side, with the higher manifestation of defending the weak and standing up for oneself. Her placement and aspects to other planets correlate to the archetype of the underdog warrior, speaking truth to power, and with also a willingness to resort to violence if necessary. Many manifestations of this archetype exist in the present culture, and the discovery period is also coincident with the onset of the Iraq war. This archetype represents a dire motif of the struggle for survival that is inherent in the natural world, and in humankind also, and which represents once again, as with Pluto and Chiron, a darker side of our common humanity that must be acknowledged and faced in our time. Where she located in your chart, you have the capability to make a powerful and perhaps ruthless stand for yourself, and to battle against all odds.
Lunar Nodes
The Lunar Nodes are the two points where the Moon’s orbital path crosses the plane of the ecliptic (the plane of the Earth’s orbit around the Sun). Symbolically they represent talents and life path, or destiny.
The North Node
The Nodes of the Moon indicate areas of life that are of special concern to you. Also referred to as the dragon’s head, The North Node indicates your goals. The placement of the North Node indicates work that needs to be done in your life, or new faculties that need to be developed in the present lifetime.
