An Astrological Glossary of Terms

This page is constantly under construction and will be added to from time to time………….

Abscission of Light

Prevention of the culmination of an aspect by the intervention of another. Used in Horary Astrology. See Frustration.

Accidental Dignity

Planet dignified by favourable position, motion or aspect, but not in Essential Dignity. See Dignities, Accidental and Essential.

Acronycal

(a-kron'i-kal). (Gr., on the edge of the night.) Said of the rising after sunset, or the setting before sunrise, of a planet that is in opposition to the Sun, hence in a favorable position for astronomical observation. A. Place. The degree it will occupy when it is in opposition to the Sun.

Adjusted Calculation Date (ACD)

A term used in reference to a directed or progressed horoscope, as indicating the date on which the planet culminates. Also termed Limiting Date. v. Directions.

Affliction

Adverse aspects between planets, or between a planet and a cusp or other sensitive point.

Ages, Astrological

As anciently considered, a period of roughly 2000 years during which the point of the Spring Equinox recedes through one Sign of the Zodiac of Constellations. Historical records show the Equinox as having once began in Taurus, at which time Taurus was considered to be the first Sign of the Zodiac. v. Precession.

Air Element

One of the four astrological elements. A masculine element, it stands for intellect, media, matters to do with communications and so on. The other elements are, Fire, Water and Earth.

Air Signs

Libra (cardinal), Aquarius (fixed) and Gemini (mutable).

Alfridaria

Derived from the mixed Arabic and Persian "al firdar", the alfridaria, or alfridaries, are a system of planetary periods of Persian origin first described as far as we know by Abu Mashar. Originally intended for the long term forecasting of historical events, they can also be used in predicting for individual charts.

Almuten

n. The planet of chief influence in a Nativity by virtue of essential and accidental dignities. Its strength is estimated from: its intrinsic character; its Sign-position where posited, its own Sign, or the Sign in which it is in exaltation; its harmonious aspects from favoring planets; and its elevated position in a geoarc Figure. A term of Arabian origin, seldom employed by present day astrologers.

Alpheta

Giver of Life. The alphetical places correspond with the places of Hyleg.

Anareta

A planet severely afflicting the Hyleg at birth and by direction. Usually a malefic, but any planet can be the Anareta. It is believed to portend the cause of death. The 29^th degree of a Sign is said to be an Aneretic degree.

Angles

First, Tenth, Seventh and Fourth houses of the horoscope. Planets in angles are traditionally held to be the most significant.

Angular Velocity

The angle through which a planet sweeps in a unit of time. Technically, the daily motion of a planet, expressed in degrees and minutes of arc, is its Angular Velocity.

Anima Mundi

"Soul of the world." An occult term applied to the all-connecting consciousness, or divine essence, which permeates and animates everything in Nature. According to occult lore all sentient life is fused, blended and unified by Anima Mundi so that in reality there is no such thing as separateness. Radioactivity symbolizes this principle. Synonym of the oriental term Alaya.

Antipathy

Inharmonious relations between planets.

Antiscion

Equal distance from one side of the equator as from the other side, or from a house cusp. modernly used in the so-called Uranian Astrology, it is the reflex position of a planet's birth position, in that degree on the opposite side of the Cancer-Capricorn axis, of which either 0° Cancer or 0° Capricorn is the Midpoint. For example, the antiscion of a planet at 14° Capricorn is at 16° Sagittarius, which point becomes effective when occupied by another planet, or one in transit or by direction. As first used by Ptolemy the term is applied to two planets which have the same declination on the same side of the equator. One in the same declination on the opposite side was termed a contra-antiscion. v. parallel.

Aphelion

The place in a planet's orbit which is farthest from the Sun. See Perihelion.

Apheta

Prorogator. The planet or place that exercises an influence over the life and death of the native. v. Hyleg.

Apogee

The place in a planet's orbit which is farthest from the Earth. See Perigee.

Apparent Motion

The celestial bodies appear to rise in the east and set in the west, but this ‘rotational movement’ is actually an illusion caused by the rotation of the Earth.

Application

The approach of one planet to another, or to a sensitive point in the chart, such as a cusp.

Appulse

The near approach of one orbital body to another -- a conjunction; the culmination at or crossing of the meridian. Applied particularly to the appulse of the Moon to the Earth's shadow. v. Penumbral Eclipse.

Aquarius

The eleventh sign of the zodiac. Aquarius, the Water-bearer, is a fixed, air sign. More about Aquarius.

Arabic Parts

Significant points on the ecliptic, derived from the relationship between other significant points or planets. See Pars Fortunae (Part of Fortune). More about Arabic Parts.

Arc

Distance as measured along a circle. A portion or segment of a curved line, such as a circle, or ellipse. Hence the orbital distance separating two bodies, or between two points.

Aries

The first sign of the zodiac. Aries, the Ram, is a cardinal fire sign. More about Aries.

Ascendant

The sign and degree on the cusp of the First House. A planet is said to be ascending when moving via the ascendant between the fourth and tenth cusps. More about Ascendant.

Ascension

See Long Ascension and Short Ascension.

Aspect

Particular angular distances between planets, or planets and other sensitive points.

Asteroids

Small planetoids orbiting between Mars and Jupiter. There are many of them, but recently a small number have been seen as considered useful in astrology. More about Asteroids.

Average Daily Motion

The average motion of a planet over a 24 hour period. Traveling slower than average is held to be a debility. See Mean Daily Motion.

Axis, Inclination of

The equators of rotating bodies appear never to parallel their orbits. Hence there is an inclination of the axis when considered in reference to the plane of the orbit. Within the solar system these inclinations arc, at this epoch, as follows: Mercury 72°, Venus 60°, the Earth 23½°, Mars 25°, Jupiter 3°, Saturn 26°, Uranus 102°, Neptune 155°, Pluto unknown. The inclination of the Sun's axis to the plane of the Earth's orbit is about 7°. Its inclina- tion to the plane of its own orbit is unknown, because the Sun's orbit is itself unknown. It is claimed by some that there is an additional motion of the Earth's axis amounting to 50" a century, making an orbit of about 2½ million years, in the course of which the North Pole and the South Pole successively point to the Sun instead of as at present to the Pole Star. This theory is advanced by way of explanation for successive Ice Ages.

Ayanamsa

A Sanskrit term meaning "yearly degree," used to indicate the difference in arc between the starting points of the tropical and sidereal zodiacs. One of the measuring systems which is fixed with respect to the stars. In Western astrology, the fiducial (starting point) used is defined by the Fagan/Bradley ayanamsha. The same system was used by ancient astrologers in Egypt and Babylonia. In India, several different values are currently in use, the most popular being the Lahiri ayanamsa.

Azimene

Deficient or "Weak" degrees which are traditionally held to cause tendency to lameness, deformity, or other disability such as blindness.

Barren Planets

Sun, Uranus, Saturn and Mars. These planets (along with the Dragon's Tail, or Moon's South Node) tend to prevent the birth, or cause early death, of children when located in either of the parents' fifth or eleventh houses.

Barren Signs

Gemini, Leo and Virgo. Aries is also considered rather barren. If on fifth or eleventh house cusps they tend to reduce the number of offspring. Good for tilling, bad for planting.

Benefics

Jupiter (the greater fortune) and Venus (the lesser fortune). These planets are considered to benefit the native, unless afflicted. Compare Malefics.

Bestial Signs

Aries (Ram), Taurus (Bull), Leo (Lion), Sagittarius (Centaur/Archer), Capricorn (Sea-goat) and Pisces (Fishes). Each of these is thus symbolised by an animal.

Bicorporal (Double-bodied) Signs

Gemini (twins), Sagittarius (part man, part beast) and Pisces (two fishes). They denote dual experiences, twins etc., when on the cusp of fifth or eleventh houses and especially on the ascendant or when populated by many planets.

Bi-Quintile

144 degree aspect.

Birth Chart

A natal chart (nativity), or horoscope. It is a map of how the planets were aligned when a person (the native) was born. The birth chart presents an astrological blueprint for a person's life. More about the Birth Chart.

Birth moment

What is generally accepted as the true moment of birth is the moment of the first inspiration of breath after ligation of the umbilical cord. At that moment the infant ceases to receive blood conditioned through the mother's receptivities, and in response to the law of adaptability must grow channels of receptivity to cosmic frequencies that accord with those present in the Earth's magnetic field, and through these receptivities it begins to condition its own blood. This moment must be reduced to Standard Time, adjusted to Greenwich world-time for calculating the planets' places, thence readjusted to Local Mean Time at the birth place to determine the Ascendant and the Midheaven degrees and the House-cusps.

Birth Place

Place where the native's first breath was drawn. Longitude and latitude of the birthplace are required to construct an accurate nativity.

Birth Time

Moment of first breath; important in erecting an accurate nativity. See Birth Moment above.

Bi-quintile

144 degree aspect.

Cadent Houses

"Falling away" (from the angles). Third, sixth, ninth and twelfth houses. Planets are generally weaker there, unless they are the natural rulers of the houses, as with Mercury in the third or sixth, Jupiter in the ninth or twelfth, Neptune in the twelfth.

Cancer

The fourth sign of the zodiac. Cancer, the crab, is a cardinal, water sign. Ruled by the Moon, it is the exaltation of Jupiter. More about Cancer.

Caput Algol

The Gorgon's Head. A malefic fixed star, causing one to "lose one's head in the situation", located in Taurus 26°.

Caput Draconis

The Dragon's Head (Moon's North Node). More about the Moon's Nodes.

Capricorn

The tenth sign of the zodiac. Capricorn, the sea-goat, is a cardinal, earth sign. Ruled by Saturn, it is the exaltation of Mars. More about Capricorn.

Cardinal Houses

See Angles.

Cardinal Signs

Aries, Cancer, Libra and Capricorn. They stand for the seasonal changes. Cardinal signs on the angles of a chart denote prominence in related fields.

Cataclysmic planet

Uranus, which combines both the magnetic and the electric elements, producing sudden effects.

Cauda Draconis

The Dragon's Tail (Moon's South Node). More about the Moon's Nodes.

Cazimi

Said of a planet when in the heart of the Sun. An Arabian astronomical term applied to the center of the Solar disc. It is employed to describe a planet located within an arc of seventeen minutes (17') of the Sun's longitude: or by some authorities within half a degree of the Sun's center. It is then said to be "in the heart of the Sun." Older authorities considered that this position fortified the planet as much as combustion debilitates it. In his dictionary, James Wilson scoffed at this "silly distinction," saying that a planet so placed "is undoubtedly in the worst state of combustion." Most modern authorities are inclined to agree with him, although the favorable and unfavorable qualities it imparts vary according to the planet involved. v. Combust.

Ceres

(1) Daughter of Ops and Saturn; a Roman goddess of growing vegetation, particularly corn. Her day of celebration occurred on April 19th. (2) The first of the Asteroids (q.v.) to be discovered. The Great Mother. An asteroid seen by modern astrologers as significant. More about Asteroids.

Chaldaeans

First a Semitic tribe, but later the magi of Babylonia, astrologers and diviners. From among them came "the wise men from the East." In the time of Alexander the Great, 356 B.C., the Chaldaeans alleged that their Astrology had existed 473,000 years.

Chiron

Small planetoid (approx. 300klm dia) in somewhat erratic orbit between Saturn and Uranus. Some consider Chiron the ‘bridge between the personal and transpersonal planets.

Chronos

(i) The original supreme deity, superseded by Zeus. (2) In ancient texts, the planet Saturn (q.v.).

Collection of Light

When a planet receives aspect from two others which are themselves not in aspect.

Combust

Within 8 degrees 30 minutes of the Sun. The characteristic effect to which the term applies is probably confined within an arc of 3° and is more pronounced when the planet rises after the Sun. Not a favourable aspect, especially for the Moon.

Common (Mutable) Signs

Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, Pisces.

Conjunction (Conjunct)

An aspect where the chart factors concerned are within 8° orb of arc. It is usually a helpful energy which creates self-nurturing, inner strength and ambition. It also can create intensity, stress and confusion depending upon the energies involved..

Constellations

A circle beyond the zodiac, bearing sections with the same names as the signs, containing groups of fixed stars. Ancient astrology had only forty-eight named constellations, although modern astronomers have named many more for convenience of location. There are no fixed stars in the zodiac; only planets inhabit the zodiac.

Converse

Contrary motion to the natural movement of the planets through the signs. Used in directions.

Co-significator

Any planet which is naturally associated with another in the rulership of a faculty or matter under consideration.

Critical Degree

A planet's strength in the chart is increased when in any of these degrees, or within an orb of 3 degrees of the critical degree.

Culmination

2. The culmination of an aspect is when it is completed, regardless of the MC.

Cusp

The beginning of a house or sign in the chart. The sign on the cusp of any house and its ruling planet are the rulers of that house. Planets near the cusp are more significant than otherwise.

Cycle

Of the Sun, 28 years; of the Moon, 19 years. An imaginary orb, or circle, in the heaven; marks the return of the planets to their own places; each of the planets having a cycle, or revolution, of its own.

Debility

A planet is weakened when placed in a sign which is unsympathetic to its nature, such as Mercury, an airy planet, when placed in Sagittarius, a fiery sign.

Decan (Decanate)

A one-third (ten-degree) sector of a sign. Each sign has three decanates: 0-10 degrees, 11-20 degrees and 21-30 degrees. Each decan has its own ruler. Each decan is divided into two faces, a positive and a negative, each with its own ruler.

Decile

Minor aspect of 36°. Considered fortunate, also known as semi-quintile.

Declination

Distance of a planet north or south of the equator. Every part of the ecliptic has declination except the beginning of Aries and Libra, because the plane of the ecliptic is not parallel withthat of the equator, which meet at those two points. The Sun has maximum declination of 23°28', when it reaches the tropics of Cancer in the north and Capricorn in the south. Declination is due to the inclination of the earth in orbit. See Parallel.

Decreasing in Light

When a planet has passed the opposition to the Sun it is said to be decreasing in light and is correspondingly weaker. This especially applies to the Moon.

Decumbiture

Literally, a "lying down." A horary figure erected for the moment when a person is taken ill, wherefrom to judge as to the possible nature, prognosis and duration of the illness.

Degree

The zodiac is divided into 360 equal degrees, which are themselves divided into twelve signs of thirty degrees each. One degree contains 60 minutes and each minute contains 60 seconds of longitudinal arc.

Descendant

The seventh house (or its cusp).

Descending

Detriment

opposite of Aries, or Taurus, theopposite of Scorpio.

Dignities, Accidental and Essential

Essential Dignity
This refers to a planet's position by sign (home sign, exaltation, or triplicity)
Accidental is more significant than Essential Dignity in the interpretation, although both are important. The unfortunate influence of a malefic is usually diminished when in dignity, whilst the fortunate influence of a benefic is increased.

Direct Motion

In the normal order of the signs. The opposite of Retrograde Motion.

Directions

Aspects between planets in a progressed horoscope; also their aspects to the planets in the natal chart.

Dispositor

Mutual Disposition (when planets are in each other's signs, eg: Moon in Leo and Sun in Cancer) is very favourable and reduces any surrounding negativity. Disposition is particularly important in Horary readings.

Diurnal

Planets above the horizon (between the first and seventh cusps via the Mid-Heaven), versus Nocturnal below the horizon.

Domal Dignity

A planet in its own sign.

Dragon's Head

Caput Draconis, or Moon's North Node. This is the sign and degree occupied by the moon when crossing the ecliptic from south to north lattitude. It is considered benefic and is the opposite of the Dragon's Tail (Cauda Draconis), the South Node, which is considered malefic. In Indian astrology, the Dragon's Head is called Rahu and the Dragon's Tail is called Ketu. These significant points traditionally have the strength of a planet and are especially important in directions.

Dragon's Tail

Cauda Draconis, or Moon's South Node. See Dragon's Head.

Dwadishamsha

Division in Indian Astrology of the zodiac into segments of two and a half degrees. Popularised in the West by Alan Leo.

Earth

Sometimes called Terra. Our planet revolves on its own axis every 24 hours and completes its orbit around the Sun in around 365.25 days. The course of the Earth's orbit lies between that of Venus and Mars. The Moon is the Earth's natural satellite and orbits the Earth in approximately 29 days.

Earth Element

One of the four astrological elements. A feminine element, it stands for materiality, solidity, matters to do with security and so on. The other elements are, Fire, Air and Water.

Earth Signs

Taurus (fixed), Virgo (mutable), Capricorn (cardinal).

Easter

This calendar festival finds its primitive origins in earlier European and Middle Eastern cultures, all of which had major festivals, usually to do with resurrection and/or release from bondage, based around the vernal equinox.

Eclipse

Solar and Lunar eclipses are important keys to political and social events. They are also significant in natal and progressed horoscopes.

Ecliptic

The Sun's apparent path through the zodiac, a belt some 15° - 18° wide around the Earth. The name refers to eclipses, which can only occur here.

Eighth House

The eighth segment of an astrological chart. Governs natural changes in life such as birth and death, clearing the way for something better, self-revelations, marriage and business assets, and the resources of partnership.

Election

Chart cast to ascertain the most auspicious time for important events, such as marriages, moving house and so on. Used in Horary Astrology.

Elements

The signs divided into the four types. Fire: Aries, Leo, Sagittarius. Earth: Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn. Air: Gemini, Libra, Aquarius. Water: Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces. The four fundamental natures, symbolized as Fire, Earth, Air and Water. v. Signs.

Elevated

The closer a planet is to the midheaven in a chart, the more elevated, and therefore the more potent, it is.

Eleventh House

The eleventh chart segment. Governs friendships, hopes and wishes, personal goals, associations, group aspirations, cooperation, bettering the community and humanitarianism.

Elongation

Distance of a planet, measured in degrees, from the Sun.

Emersion

Immersion.

Ephemeris

Tables of planetary places used to find their positions in the horoscope. Now widely available in computerised form.

Equator

The circle that lies midway between the poles of the earth, dividing it into two hemispheres -- North and South. Also the projection of the Earth's equator upon the celestial sphere -- sometimes called the equinoctial circle. The celestial equator has also been defined as "the continuation of the plane of the terrestrial equator without limit into celestial spaces. See Long Ascension and Short Ascension.

Equinox

Equal Night. Point in the ecliptic where the day and night is of equal duration. Vernal equinox is the first degree of Aries and the autumnal equinox is the first degree of Libra. (These points are reversed in the southern hemisphere).

Esoteric

Secret knowledge not accessible to the uninitiated. When such information is published it ceases to be esoteric and becomes exoteric, which means that the facts have become the property of the rest of humanity. As employed by Allan Leo, exoteric interpretations are those wherein a predicted event is considered to be inescapable, while esoteric interpretations are based upon the assumption that the developed individual is able to exercise self-determination and volition, and to render himself immune to the harmful effects of astrological influences by transmuting them into a source of power.

Exaltation

Essential dignity of a planet. Possibly even more powerful than being in its own sign.

Exoteric

The exposed, the visible. Antithesis of Esoteric. (q.v.)

Face

Each sign of thirty degrees is divided into three segments called decans (decanates) of ten degrees, each with its own planetary ruler. Each decan is divided into a positive (active) and a negative (receptive) face of five degrees, expressing the polarity of the planetary ruler of the decan. Thus each sign has six faces, three positive and three negative, depending on the rulership of the decanates.

Fall

A planet is in fall when placed in the sign opposite to that of its exaltation.

Familiarity

Any aspect or reception between planets.

Fiery Element

One of the four astrological elements. A masculine element, it stands for action, positivity, matters to do with spirituality and so on. The other elements are Water, Air and Earth.

Fifth House

The fifth segment of a chart. It represents recreation, creativity, hobbies, gambling, risks, children, love affairs and the extension of the self through children or love relationships.

Figure

Chart, horoscope, map, nativity.

Finger of Fate

See Finger of God.

Finger of God

Also called the Finger of Fate or Yod. Comprises two planets in sextile (60°) aspect to each other, each making a 150° aspect focused on the same third planet (opposing their midpoint). Indicative of a special life purpose, it creates the sensation of steadiness, special passion, deep aspiration and a strong inner drive to accomplish something very important and special.

Firdar

see Alfridaria

Fire Signs

Aries (cardinal), Leo (fixed), Sagittarius (mutable).

First House

see Ascendant.

Fixed Houses

2nd, 5th, 8th, 11th houses.

Fixed Signs

Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, Aquarius.

Fixed Stars

These do not move across the ecliptic, as do planets. Those near the ecliptic and of significant magnitude have considerable influence. Fixed stars do not lie within the zodiac; they are all beyond it in the constellations. Planets move within the zodiac.

Forecast

Predictions based on an analysis of planetary configurations.

Fortunes

Jupiter and Venus; also the Sun and Moon unless afflicted. Mercury and Neptune can be fortunate when unafflicted and in good aspect to Jupiter or Venus.

Fourth Dimension

The interrelationship of space and time, as developed by contemporary physicists, makes Time the Fourth Dimension of Space. The concept has no immediate application to Astrology, but its comprehension makes more understandable the factors upon which all astrological considerations are based. In occult terminology the Fourth Dimension has to do with internal qualities that when seen in the astral light become visible. It is defined as "the sum of the other three" dimensions; also as "Man's expanding sense of time." In another sense Astrology is the Fourth Dimension of Psychology, in that it alone takes cognizance of the added factor of time.

Fourth House

Fourth segment of an astrological chart. It represents religious and philosophical beliefs, the home, real estate and the person's non-dominant parent (usually the mother).

Fruitful Signs

Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces.

Frustration

When a planet applying to an aspect is deflected by a third before the aspect is complete, it is described as having been frustrated. Used in Horary Astrology.

Gemini

The third sign of the zodiac. Mutable and airy. Ruled by Mercury. Emblem: The Twins. More about Gemini.

Genethliacal

Pertaining to Birth Charts in Natal Astrology.

Geniture

The Birth Chart.

Geocentric

The Earth as the centre of observation and influence. Astrological aspects are geocentric, as they relate to the Earth. See Heliocentric.

Grand Cross

Two sets of oppositions at right angles to each other. An aspect representing very difficult energy. It creates frustration, anger, stress, intensity and the feeling of always being on a treadmill. It promotes self-growth and endurance.

Grand Trine

Three planets spaced 120° apart around the chart. An aspect representing very easy energy. It nourishes the continuous use of natural talents and abilities, is an area of comfort, and can assist life in being either positive or negative.

Great Circle

A circle whose plane passes through the center of a sphere. Thus, the largest circle which can be constructed on the surface the sphere. Distinguished from a Small Circle, whose plane does not pass through the center of a sphere.

Harmonics

Integral divisions of the circle as a remnant of the Music of the Spheres. Harmonic charts are techniques for viewing an entire chart of planets in terms of one aspect (or portion of the zodiac circle). For example, you might want to view planets from the point of view of a square; this so-called 4th-harmonic or 90° chart shows planets' disposition to the square aspect for a particular date and time. There are two main type of harmonic charts: dials and traditional.

Hayz

In Horary Questions a masculine diurnal planet above the Earth in a Day Figure, and a feminine nocturnal planet under the Earth in a Night Figure is a Dignity of 1°, and is reckoned fortunate. The Arabians did not conceive it a perfect Hayz except when the masculine planet was in a male Sign, or the feminine planet in a female Sign. A masculine planet in a male Sign under the Earth by day was considered to be only in his light, and the person denoted by it to be in a state of contentment.

Heart of the Sun

v. Cazimi.

Herschel

The planet Uranus, once named after its discoverer, Sir William Herschel.

Heliocentric

From the viewpoint of the Sun. Modern Western astrology is generally Geocentric (from the viewpoint of the Earth). Planetary positions appear different from the heliocentric viewpoint.

Hemisphere

The half-circle: either that East or West of the meridian, or North or South of the Equator.

Horary Astrology

A branch of astrology dealing with questions regarding any important matter. A chart is erected for the time when the querent's mind is most strongly focused on the matter in question.

Horizon

The circle round the Earth that separates the visible and the invisible hemispheres. The terms sensible, visible or physical horizon are often employed, indicating the line which terminates our vision, where the celestial bodies appear and disappear. The astronomical horizon, termed the rational horizon, is obtained by supposing a line drawn from the Earth's center parallel with the horizon. Astrologically, the eastern horizon is the degree rising in the east, and the Sign then appearing is the Rising Sign.)

House

One of twelve divisions of the heavens as seen from the Earth. Each house has a particular field of reference to events on Earth, or in the querent's life.

House System

House System A method of dividing the heavens into (usually) 12 lunes or sections (like the sections of an orange). Normally house systems are named after their inventor. (One of over 20 systems in use - Alcabitius, Campanus, Koch, Meridan, Placidus etc.). Astrologers call the various sections "houses" and number them from the eastern horizon under the Earth to the western horizon, and across the sky overhead back to the eastern horizon.

Hyleg

If neither luminary is located in one of these hylegical places, the ascending degree becomes the hyleg. When the hyleg is afflicted there is danger to life. See Alpheta.

Immersion

The beginning of an eclipse, or of an occultation. The opposite of Emersion, or coming out of the aspect.

Impedited

A planet is impeded in its natural action when afflicted, especially by malefics.

Imum Coeli (IC)

The fourth house cusp. The Lower Heaven or Nadir. The north point of the horoscope.

Inclination

(1) Astrologically, the motion of a body toward a position in the horoscope other than the one it held at birth. (2) Astronomically, the angle at which the orbit of a planet crosses another orbit, particularly the ecliptic. A point in an orbit is reduced to the ecliptic by subtracting from the vector, the cosine of the declination. The inclination of the Moon's orbit to the ecliptic varies from 4°59' to 5°18'. The Earth's orbit is, of course, the Ecliptic, hence the Sun can have no latitude. That it has declination is due to the fact that the ecliptic makes an angle with the celestial equator of approx. 23°5' -- which is described, not as inclination but as the obliquity of the ecliptic.

Inconjunct

Known popularly as Quincunx. An aspect of 150ƒ, creating stress, unhappiness and sorrow. The aspect has a 6^th or 8th house effect, depending on whether the swifter planet is applying or separating from the opposition to the slower.

Increasing in Light

A planet increases in light as it progresses from the conjunction with the Sun to the opposition. Mainly used regarding the Moon.

Increasing in Motion

A planet moving faster than on the previous day.

Inferior Planets

Planets orbiting between the Earth and the Sun (Mercury and Venus and the postulated Vulcan). The orbits of the superior planets, Pluto, Neptune, Uranus, Saturn, Jupiter and Mars (also the trans-plutonian "planets" such as Trans-Pluto) lie beyond that of the Earth from the Sun.

Infortunes

Uranus, Saturn and Mars. Mercury and Neptune when afflicted. Probably Pluto.

Ingress

Entry of a planet into a sign. Usually the Sun's ingress into the four cardinal signs.

Intercepted

When a sign is fully enclosed between the cusps of a house without actually being on either cusp it is described as being intercepted. This only appears in charts; signs are never intercepted in the zodiac.

Interpolation

The process of computing intermediate values in a series of numbers. In astrology it is applied (1) to computing a planet's position for a given moment between two known posi- tions, such as the noon or midnight position prior to and subsequent to the desired moment, as taken from an Ephemeris for that year; and (2) to compute the house cusps for an intermediate latitude between two sets of tables computed for latitudes on either side of that for which the interpolation is required. In making the calculations necessary for an interpolation, use is frequently made of Tables of Diurnal Proportional Logarithms.

Interpretation

Applied astrologically to an individual judgment as to the significance of a configuration of birth planets, or of transiting or progressed aspects to a birth configuration.

Invariable Plane

The Solar System possesses two fixed planes: that of the Solar Equator; and the Invariable plane -- a central plane of the Solar System discovered by Laplace, which, passing through its center of gravity at a mean inclination of about 1°35' to the Ecliptic, is independent of the mutual perturbations of the planets.

Inversion

When any Angle which represents an aspect is sub tracted from 180°, that which remains is also an aspect, and either is an inversion of the other. Thus: the inversion of a sextile is a trine; of a semi-square, a sesquiquadrate; and so on.

Jones Patterns

A set of pattern classifications for flash appraisal, as advanced by Marc Edmund Jones, consists of the following: (1) Splash type, in which actual bodies excluding Fortuna and the Moon's Nodes, are scattered around the circle, with no noticeable gaps in the daily rising sequence. (2) Bundle type, all planets contained within a 120° arc. (3) Locomotive type, all planets within a 240° arc leaving an unoccupied 120° arc. (4) Bowl type, all planets within a 180° arc, leaving one half of the Figure untenanted. (5) Bucket type, approximating the Bowl type, but with one planet in the opposite arc as a bail, thereby transforming the bowl into a bucket. (6) See Saw type, in which the planets are generally polarized around opposite ends of a diameter, leaving two vacant arcs of from 60° to 90° at opposite sides of the continuity. (7) Splay type. Strong and sharp aggregations of planets irregularly spaced. Characteristic qualities of each group, are described as: (1) A well-balanced nature with a capacity for universal interest, whose only genius is that of versatility and the seeming ability to find order in apparent confusion. (2) Apparent self-gathering of interests and unresponsiveness to universal stimuli. (3) A dynamic and practical capacity, which while in a sense, eccentric, lacks stability in extremes of universality or obsession. (4) An extreme degree of self-containment. (5) An effective capacity for some special activity. (6) A consciousness of opposing views in a world of conflict, with success dependent on correct alignment. (7) A purposeful individuality, which chooses its outlet of self-expression and refuses to be pigeon-holed.

Joys

Certain places in the zodiac where planets, being harmoniously located, have some beneficial effect. Rarely used in modern astrology.

Judicial Astrology

Relates to the forecasting of principal events which will befall a country and public conditions which will prevail.

Juno

The queen of the gods. An asteroid seen by modern astrologers as significant. More about Asteroids.

Jupiter

The king of the gods, a planet symbolising matters to do with the law, religion, authority, the higher mind and so on. Ruler of Sagittarius and Pisces. Exalted in Cancer. The greater benefic. More about Jupiter.

Key Words

Words that encapsulate the meaning of an astrological factor. For example, Cancer: "I feel".

Kepler

Johann Kepler, born in Weil, Wurtemburg, Germany on December 27, 1571 was a famous astrologer who became the father of modern astronomy.

Ketu

Name for the Dragon's Tail, in Indian Astrology. See Dragon's Head.

Kite

A major configuration which consists of three planets in a grand trine configuration, with a fourth at the midpoint of any of the trines, forming sextiles to two of the planets, and an opposition to the third. This is a powerful configuration, combining the selflessness and vision of the grand trine type with the practicality and groundedness of the oppostion.

Latitude (Celestial)

Measurement of distance of any planet or star north or south of the ecliptic. The Sun never has any latitude.

Latitude (Terrestrial)

Degree of distance of any place north or south of the Earth's equator.

Leo

This regal sign is the fifth sign of the zodiac. Ruled by the Sun. The exaltation of Pluto. Leo's symbol is the lion. More about Leo

Libra

The seventh sign of the zodiac, Libra is the sign most concerned with relationships. Cardinal and Airy. Ruled by Venus. The exaltation of Saturn. Libra's symbol is the scales, or balance More about Libra.

Lights

Sun and Moon.

Logarithms

Tables by which when a planet's motion is known its position at a given time may be readily calculated.

Long Ascension

Signs of long ascension take longer to ascend than others. Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius. Long and short ascension are reversed in the southern hemisphere. See Short Ascension.

Longitude (Celestial)

Measurement along the ecliptic in terms of signs and degrees from the point of the vernal equinox (0° Aries). The longitude of a planet in the 126th degree of the zodiac is 6° Leo. See Right Ascension.

Longitude (Terrestrial)

Distance in degrees, minutes and seconds of any place east or west of Greenwich, England. Also measured in hours, minutes and seconds.

Lord

Often used synonymously with planetary Ruler. More precise terminology would indicate the Ruler of a Sign and the Lord of a House.

Lucifer

The "Light-bearer." Applied to Venus when a "morning star," rising before the Sun; poetically called, "Son of the Morning."

Luna

The Moon. More about the Moon.

Lunar Month

More correctly a Synodic Month. The total of the Moon's annual travel in excess of that of the Sun, when reduced to time, gives the duration of the mean synodic revolution of the moon, or the lunar month, as 29.531 days, or 29d. 12h. 44m. 2.8s., in which period the Moon returns to its former position in relation to the Sun. The Sidereal Month is 27.322 days.

Lunation

A lunar period. Measured from one place in the zodiac until her return there. For example, the time taken by the Moon from one conjunction with the Sun until the next, 29 days, 12 hours, 44 minutes and 3 seconds, is called a synodical lunation. Also used to describe different aspects of the Moon to the Sun, thus accounting for her phases. A chart made for the moment the Moon conjoins the Sun is called a Lunation Chart.

Malefics

Planets generating difficult circumstances: Mars, Saturn, Uranus. The jury is still out on Pluto, but he is most likely malefic.

Mansions of the Moon

A series of 28 divisions of the Moon's travel through one complete circuit of 360 degrees, each Mansion representing one day's average travel of the Moon (12° 51' 25.2", or roughly 13 degrees), beginning apparently at the point of the Spring Equinox, or 0° Aries. The result is this series of cusps: Cardinal Signs:
0° 0' 0" The nearest even degree:
12 51 25 13
25 42 50 26
Fixed Signs:
8 34 15 9
21 25 40 21
Mutable Signs:
4 17 5 4
17 8 30 17

Mars

The planet of action! Rules Aries and Scorpio, Exalted in Capricorn. More about Mars.

Masculine & Feminine Planets

not simply relate to gender, for masculine and feminine also express these other polarities: active/passive; positive/negative; dry/moist; hot/cold; light/dark

Masculine Degrees

Should the Ascendant be in one of these degrees the native, even if a woman, will be of masculine appearance in some respects.

Masculine & Feminine Signs

Feminine Signs:-Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn, Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces

Matutine

Stars or planets rising before the Sun in the morning. See Vespertine.

Mean or Average Daily Motion of Planets

The average motion of any body within a given period. The mean motion of a planet is based on the presumption that it moves in a circle at a uniform rate about the Sun. Actually the planets move in elliptical orbits, in portions of which this motion is accelerated and retarded in ratio to their distance from the gravi- tational center. The mean daily motions of the plants are:
Pluto 0° 0' 14" Jupiter 0° 4' 59"
Neptune 0° 0' 24" Mars 0° 31' 0"
Uranus 0° 0' 42" Venus 1° 36' 0"
Saturn 0° 2' 1" Mercury 4° 6' 0"
The Moon (around the Earth)13° 10' 35"
The Earth (around the Sun) 0° 59' 8"
The Heliocentric mean motions of the planets differ from their geocentric motions.

Mean Time

A consequence of the ellipticity of the Earth's track is that its orbital motion is faster near perihelion than near aphelion. This has the effect of making the day longer in Winter than in Summer: not the day from sunrise to sunset, but from one noon to the next. We keep our clocks from going haywire by the employment of the device known as mean time, thereby measuring time not by the true Sun, as does the sundial, but by a fictitious mean Sun which moves uniformly along the celestial equator, not along the ecliptic.

Medium Coeli (MC)

Midheaven, or meridian. The Southern point of the chart.

Mercury

A fast moving planet never more than 28ƒ from the Sun. Rules Gemini and Virgo, Exalted in Virgo. More about Mercury.

Meridian Distance

Measurement along the celestial equator between any point and the upper or lower meridian. A portion of the semi-arc, usually expressed in degrees of time.

Metonic Cycle

The 19 year cycle wherein the conjunctions of the Sun and Moon begin to appear progressively in the zodiac in the same places as in the previous cycle. Discovered by Meton of Athens. This is the cycle whereby the solar and lunar calendars can be approximately synchronised.

Metonic Return

Said of the recurrence of an eclipse on a given degree on the same date some 19 years later. This should not be confused with the Saros Cycle

Midheaven

Cusp of tenth house. Meridien, or MC.

Midpoint

The ecliptic exactly halfway between two planets or sensitive points. Midpoints and their interpretation are popular with many astrologers and central in the practice of several European schools of astrology, especially the Uranian System and in Cosmobiology. An unoccupied aspected degree between and equidistant from two other planets, resulting in a symmetrical grouping, sometimes called a planetary picture. Such configurations are deemed important by some authorities, although there is some difference of opinion as to the width of orbs across which there can result a "transference of light" through the planet which aspects the Midpoint.

Midnight Mark

Mean local time at birthplace when it is midnight at Greenwich, England.

Moon

The Earth's satellite. The Moon is classed as a planet ("wanderer") in astrology and represents matters to do with women, the mother, the public, the emotions and so on. It rules Cancer and is exalted in Taurus. More about the Moon.

Moon's Nodes

In general, the nodes of the Moon symbolize one's personal connections in life. Many astrologers interpret the north lunar node as an indicator of one's future and the south as an indicator of one's past; in such a context, the north node is often associated with potential (what one can overcome) and the south node with challenges (what one has to overcome). Nodes in general: Connection; communication; union; the limits of things. North Node: vocation or application point; right-of-way. South Node: Frame of reference; harkening point; wake.

Motion

According to Newton's law of motion, all bodies traveling in elliptical orbits move faster at certain portions of their orbits, and slower in others. It is therefore important to observe whether the travel between two successive days is greater or less than their mean motion. In erecting a Figure for a specified hour it is necessary to reduce this to hourly motion, to determine the exact position occupied by the faster-moving bodies. To Reduce Daily Motion to Hourly Motion : Since 1° or 60 m., divided by 24 h. equals 2½; therefore: degrees per day X 2½ = minutes per hour; and minutes per day X 2½ = seconds per hour. Thus: Moon's travel of 14° p. d. X 2½ = 35'p. h.; and 24' less p. d. = 1' less p. h., or 34' p. h. Mercury's travel of 2° 7' p. d. (computed as 2° X 2.5 = 5'; and 7' X 2.5 = 17.5") gives a rate of 5' 17.5" p. h.

Movable Signs

See Cardinal Signs

Mundane Astrology

Deals with Ingresses, Lunations, Eclipses, Great Conjunctions or Comets as indicators of conditions affecting nations, states, or communities.

Mundane Parallel

Equal distance of two planets from any angle. Also known as Parallel in Mundo. A progressed position in which a Significator and a Promittor occupy points on opposite sides and equidistant to any of the four Angles of the geocentric Figure: Ascendant, Midheaven, Descendant, or Imum Coeli.

Music of the Spheres

A phrase utilized by Pythagoras, an early Greek mathematician and astronomer who was the first to discover a mathematical relationship in the frequencies of the various tones of the musical scale. In postulating the planets' orbits as bearing a similar relationship based upon the distance from the center, he characterized their interrelated orbits as "the harmony of the spheres."

Mutable Signs

Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, Pisces.

Mutual Reception

See Reception.

Mystic Rectangle

A configuration formed by at least four planets, comprising two trines and two sextile aspects with oppositions forming from all four corners of the configuration.

Naibod's Table of Times

(For calculating an arc of direction.) Determine the Right Ascension of the bodies and subtract, to yield the length of the arc in degrees and minutes. Then reduce to time, counting each degree equal to 1y 5d 8h, and each minute of arc equal to 6d 4h. For easy calculation a Table is supplied.

Nadir

Cusp of fourth house, Lower Meridien, Imum Coeli (IC).

Natal Chart

Horoscope drawn for the Nativity. Birth Chart.

Native

The subject of a Celestial Figure.

Nativity

Moment of first breath. Also the Natal Chart.

Neomenium

The change of the Moon to New Moon, especially that which occurs closest to the Vernal Ingress. Neomenia. The festival of the new Moon.

Neptune

One of the outer, trans-personal planets. Rules Pisces with Jupiter, Exalted in Cancer. More about Neptune.

Neutral Planets

Mercury and Neptune. These two tend to be benefic when well aspected to the benefics and unfavourable when forming any aspect to the malefics.

Ninth House

The ninth chart segment, governing higher learning, religious education, long distance travel, lawyers, legal affairs and publishing.

Nocturnal Arc

The distance in space or time taken by a planet passing through the night.

Nodes

Neither the Sun nor the Earth have nodes.

Noon Mark

Mean local time at birthplace when it is noon at Greenwich, England.

Northern Signs

Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo. In these signs the Sun has northern declination.

Oblique Ascension

(O.A.) As it rises, a star or planet, not on the equator, forms an angle with that part of the equator which is rising at the same time. This is called its Ascensional difference. (A.D.) This A.D. added to the R.A. if it has S. declination, and subtracted therefrom if it has N. declination, gives its Oblique Ascension.
In the Southern hemisphere, reverse; add, if N.; subtract, if S.

Oblique Descension

The complement of Oblique Ascension: 180 degrees, minus the Oblique Ascension, equals the Oblique Descension.

Occidental & Oriental

Planets are sometimes described as being occidental or oriental of the Sun. Occidental means setting before the Sun, oriental means rising after the Sun. Ptolemy says: "When oriental, the influence is masculine; when occidental, feminine." This is a very subtle influence.

Occultation

Planets occasionally obscure other planets or stars temporarily. The Moon, transiting a variable orbit, does so frequently. The phenomenon is termed occultation to distinguish it from eclipses. An occultation is equal to a powerful total or partile conjunction. (To be actually partile, these bodies should at the time have the same lattitude and longitude.)

Opposition

An adverse aspect of 180 degrees.

Orbit

The path described by a heavenly body in its revolution around a center of attraction. Since the attracting mass is also in motion, the orbit must necessarily be an ellipse. The position of the center of the attracting mass is the focus of the ellipse.

Orbs

The space within which an aspect is judged to be effective. The term is employed to describe the arc between the point at which a platic, or wide aspect, is deemed strong enough to be operative, and the point of culmination of a partile or exact aspect. Most authorities agree that orbs should vary with each planet and aspect, and that a larger orb should be allowed for an aspect that is forming than for one that is separating.

Oriental

See Occidental.

Parallel Aspect (Zodiacal)

Planets having equal distance in declination on the same side of the equator. A similar effect to the conjunction. Contra-parallel is the equal distance in declination on opposite sides of the equator and is similar in effect to the opposition aspect.

Parallax Moon

Parallax Moon is a correction for the difference in the position of the Moon as measured from two points on Earth from the center of the Earth (standard calculation) and from the actual altitude of a particular location on Earth. The Moon manifests the largest difference between parallax and standard position due to its proximity to the Earth; the other planets manifests increasingly less parallax according to their distance from the Earth.

Pars Fortunae

The Part of Fortune, one of the most important Arabian Parts. The point lies the same distance in longitude from the ascendant as the Moon lies from the Sun. Its house represents an area of life where one finds happiness and natural tranquility, expressing innate abilities. It indicates an area wherein the self is easily expressed. Your relation to the public. Things coming to you. The sign and house positions show how. Depending on aspects from the other planets, this can be a point of "misfortune."
Diurnal Calculation = Ascendant plus Moon minus Sun
Nocturnal Calculation = Ascendant plus Sun minus Moon
More about the Arabian Parts

Part of Fortune

See "Pars Fortunae".

Perigee

The place in a planet's orbit which is nearest to the Earth. See Apogee.

Peregrine

When a planet is void of essential dignities. Planets in mutual reception cannot be peregrine.

Perihelion

The place in a planet's orbit which is nearest to the Sun. See Aphelion.

Phases

Said of the Moon, but also applicable to Mercury and Venus. The phases are crescent, shortly before and after lunation; half-moon, at the quarter when one side is a straight line and the other is convex; gibbous, shortly after the quarters, when both sides are convex; and Full Moon, when the Earth and the Moon are in opposition. The Lunation is hardly a phase, since the Moon is invisible except for a slight glow: the Earth-shine resulting from light reflected back from the Earth. According to Kepler, as the Moon waxes all things swell with moisture, which is decreased at the Lunation, increased at the Full, and powerfully stressed at the quadratures. Direct light is heating; reflected light, moistening.

Pisces

The twelfth sign of the zodiac. Mutable water. Ruled by Jupiter and Neptune. Exaltation of Venus, Lilith and Vertex. Pisces' symbol comprises a brace of fishes. More about Pisces

Planet

From an old word meaning "wanderer", the planets are those heavenly bodies that seem to move through the zodiac. In astrology, the planets include the Sun and the Moon. Those that do not move are known as the Fixed Stars.

Planetary Hours

The hours of the day are ruled by planets in their order from Saturn inward to the Moon.

Planetary Pattern

A symmetrical arrangement of two or more planets or sensitive points around a common axis. A Planetary Picture as employed in Uranian Astrology, represents the interactivity of two planets, connected through a third planet or sensitive point at or in hard aspect to their midpoint.

Pluto

The furthest known planet from the Sun. Rules Scorpio with Mars. Exalted in Leo. More about Pluto.

Pluto Square

A difficult aspect.

Platic

Wide aspect, yet within orb.

Polar Elevation

A body in the heavens a certain elevation from the meridien towards the horizon. The lattitude for which a chart is cast.

Polarity

Pole of the horoscope is the lattitude of the place or which it is cast. Polarity of a relationship is the balance between the masculine and feminine forces. Literally, that quality or condition in virtue of which a body exhibits opposite, or contrasted, properties or powers, in opposite or contrasted, parts or directions. The opposite point in the zodiac to the Sun position in any nativity may be spoken of as its Sun's polarity; usually employed in the harmonization of two maps.

Ponderous Planets

So called because their orbits lie beyond the Earth and thus take a long time to complete. See Superior Planets.

Precession (of the Equinoxes)

Due to the pole of the equator revolving around the pole of the ecliptic, the equinoctial point moves backward with relation to the constellations at the rate of approximately 50" per year. It makes a complete revolution through the twelve constellations in the great cosmic year of 25,920 earthly years, or 2160 years to pass through one constellation. There is disagreement among authorities as to the exact position of the vernal equinox (0° Aries) at present, but all are agreed that it is approaching the end of the Age of Pisces and entering the Age of Aquarius.

Precessed Solar Return

Solar Return Chart corrected for precession.

Predictive Astrology

The branch of Astrology that deals with "Directions," the methods by which future influences are ascertained. The consideration of this branch opens up the whole question of Fate versus Free Will, and at once determines the difference between the "exoteric" and the "esoteric" astrologer. The one is a confirmed fatalist who believes himself forever under the bane of Destiny, with an entire life mapped out for him over which he has no control: no re-embodiment of the soul, no continuity of existence and with no sense of purpose-because a cruel or a kind Fate has brought him into existence against his will and imposed upon him an environment he did not choose. The other is sustained by a belief that as a man sows so must he reap. His motto is "Man know thy- self," that he may choose to sow in such manner as to reap a harvest of his own enlightened desires. It is from this standpoint that all "Directions" should be made, and all rules based upon the dictum that while the stars may impel they do not compel. This presents Astrology as cosmic conditioning, but over which Man is capable of conscious control.

Prenatal Epoch

The astrological moment of conception, approximately nine months before birth, but not necessarily coinciding with the exact time of birth. The Moon's place on epoch day, or its opposite, becomes either the ascending or descending sign and degree at birth.

Primary Directions

Method of directing a chart based on a degree for a year.

Prime Vertical

The great circle which passes through the east and west points of the horizon, and the zenith and nadir of a particular location. The prime vertical is perpendicular to both the horizon and the meridian. The vertical circle that lies at right angles to the meridian, and passes through the East point, Zenith, West point and Nadir of any place.

Progressed Horoscope

A chart calculated for as many days after birth as there are years in the life of the querent.

Promittor (Promissor)

Significator of certain events. In a Horary question of marriage, for instance, the lord of the seventh is Promittor.

Prorogator

The Alpheta: planet which upholds life.

Proper Motion

Direct Motion through the zodiac in order of the signs.

Quadrants

The four quarters in a chart, or the four seasons in the year or the zodiac.

Quadrate (Quartile)

Major malefic square aspect of 90 degrees.

Quadratures

Moon's dichotomes: changes, phases or quarters. Frequently referred to as the square aspect.

Quality

The signs divided into the three types. Cardinal: Aries, Cancer, Libra, Capricorn. Fixed: Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, Aquarius. Mutable: Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, Pisces.

Querent

Person asking a question of the astrologer.

Quincunx (Quadrasextile)

Minor adverse aspect of 150 degrees. See Inconjunct.

Quindecile

Kepler's minor 24 degree aspect. Somewhat favourable.

Quintile

Somewhat favourable aspect of 72 degrees. One fifth of the zodiac, its influence is associated with 5th house matters.

Radical

1. Pertaining to the radix, or horoscope of birth. 2. In Horary astrology, a term employed to indicate a figure which can appropriately be judged in a given matter; one that is likely to give the correct answer.

Rahu

Name for the Dragon's Head in Indian Astrology. See Dragon's Head.

Rapt Motion

Apparent diurnal motion from east to west.

Rapt Parallels

Equal distances from the meridien formed by rapt motion (not zodiacal).

Reception

Planets in each others dignities act as though in good aspect to each other. When in each others debilities, planets act as though in adverse aspect to each other. Especially important when comparing nativities of two people.

Rectification

Correcting the given birth time to 'true' birth time by comparing the nature and date of significant events in the life with the aspects denoting them. Time consuming and often unreliable.

Refranation

If two planets are applying to an aspect and one of them turns retrograde before the aspect culminates, it is said to refrain from the aspect, showing that the effect indicated by theaspect will not materialise.

Relocation

The computation of a primary or secondary chart for a given time, for a different (relocated) longitude and latitude.

Retrograde

Apparent backward motion of a planet through the zodiac. Sun and Moon are never retrograde.

Revolution

See Solar Return.

Right Ascension

Measurement along the equator by degrees only from the first point of Aries. 360 degrees into 24 hours means each degree occupies about 4 minutes on the equator.

Rising Sign (Ascendant)

The sign and degree on the cusp of the First House. A planet is said to be ascending when between the fourth and tenth cusps.

Sagittarius

The ninth sign of the zodiac. Mutable and fiery. Ruled by Jupiter. Emblem: The Archer, or Centaur. Exaltation of Neptune andFortune. More about Sagittarius.

Satellite

Astronomically, all planets in our solar system are satellites of the Sun.

Satellitium

A group of planets conjoined in a particular area of a chart having a significant effect comparable with the conjunction of all the planets concerned, even though outer members of the group would be normally considered out of orb with each other. Also called a stellium.

Saturn

The planet symbolising matters to do with karma, responsibility, age and so on. Ruler of Capricorn and Aquarius. Exalted in Libra. The greater malefic.

Saturn Return

A twenty-nine year cycle, representing a time in life when we feel frustrated, angry, sad, confused, tired and insecure. A time when we become aware that we must accept responsibility for our actions.

Secondary Directions

The progressed horoscope, based on the "day for a year" system of progressing the nativity first employed by the ancient Arabian astrologers. So called to distinguish the system from the Primary Directions.

Semi-decile

A minor benefic aspect of 18 degrees. Also called virgintile.

Semi-quintile

Kepler's decile, a minor benefic aspect of 36 degrees.

Semi-sextile

A minor benefic aspect of 30 degrees.

Semi-square (semi-quadrate)

A minor adverse aspect of 45 degrees, deriving from Kepler.

Separating Aspect

See Separation.

Separation

Moving away from the partile (exact aspect). As the planet separates, the aspect becomes weaker. In Horay Astrology, it indicates events just past, or that the matter under inquiry will not eventuate.

Sesqui-quadrate

A minor adverse aspect of 135 degrees.

Seventh House

The seventh segment of an astrological chart. It governs marriage, business partnerships, harmony, disharmony and open enemies.

Sextile

A benefic aspect of 60 degrees.

Short Ascension

For places in the southern hemisphere, long and short ascension are reversed.

Sidereal Time

Right ascension of the meridien at mean noon. The angular distance of the first point of Aries, or the true vernal equinox quoted in hours, minutes and seconds. Birth time is converted into sidereal time for the latitude of the birth place in order to calculate the house cusps.

Significator

In Natal Astrology, the planet which rules the Ascendant. In Horary, the planet ruling the house governing the matter or person in question.

Signs

Twelve equal divisions of the zodiac: Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius and Pisces.

Sixth House

The sixth area of an astrological chart. It is an area of health, helping others, daily activities and the continuous harvesting or planting of positive and negative experiences

Sinister Aspect

Slow in Course

A planet moving slower than its Mean Motion.

Sol

The Sun, central power source of our solar system. The Sun stands for the individuality in the nativity. It rules Leo and is exalted in Aries. More about the Sun.

Solar Return

A chart constructed for the moment when the Sun returns to the degree and minute of its longitude at nativity (because of the Sun's irregular apparent motion, it seldom returns at the same time as birth). A solar return chart using the latitude of the present residence for construction of House Cusps indicates the course of events during the ensuing year. The transits of planets over these chart factors is used to time and date the events indicated. The solar return should be compared with the nativity and the progressed chart to make the most informed judgement.

Solar Revolution

Solar Return

Solar System

The Sun and the family of celestial bodies which revolve around it as it journeys through space and time. It includes the nine known planets and their satellites, the numerous asteroids which orbit between Mars and Jupiter, plus the comets and meteors, along with the various hypothetical planets such as Trans-Pluto (Bacchus).

Solstice

Sol+systere, latin for Sun and standing still. The place in the ecliptic where the Sun appears to stand still at its furthest point north or south of the equator, the first degree of Cancer or Capricorn. The northernmost point is the summer solstice and the southernmost is the winter solstice, when viewed from the northern hemisphere. The Sun at maximum declination appears to stand still st these points for about three days. The seasons are reversed in the southern hemisphere. See Tropic.

Solsticial Signs

Cancer and Capricorn. These signs hold the summer and winter solstices (shortest and longest nights). cf Equinoctial Signs.

South Node

See Dragon's Tail.

Southern Signs

Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, Pisces. The Sun in these signs has a southern declination.

Speculum

A table of the data concerning the planets in a horoscope. Useful in calculating directions.

Speculum of Aspects

transiting aspects at a glance.

Square

Major malefic (unfavourable) aspect of 90 degrees.

Standard Time

Time adopted in modern time zones. This is not true local or Mean Time and must be corrected according to longitude for the accurate calculation of horoscopes.

Stationary

A planet in its station appears to be standing still between periods of Retrograde and Direct motion. Sun and Moon are never stationary. See Retrograde.

Stellium

See satellitium.

Sun

More about the Sun.

Succedent

Second, fifth, eighth and eleventh houses in a chart. Corresponding to the fixed signs, they lie between the cardinal angles and the cadent houses.

Superior Planets

Pluto, Neptune, Uranus, Saturn, Jupiter and Mars. Also the trans-plutonian "planets" such as Trans-Pluto (Bacchus, or Persephone). Their orbits lie beyond that of the Earth from the Sun. The orbits of the inferior planets lie between the Earth and the Sun (Vulcan, Mercury and Venus).

Swift in Motion

A planet moving faster than its mean motion.

Synodical Lunation

The time taken by the Moon from one conjunction with the Sun until the next: 29 days, 12 hours, 44 minutes and 3 seconds..

Syzyges

Refer conjunctions and oppositions.

Table of Houses

Tables giving signs & degrees for house cusps used in the construction of horoscopes.

Taurus

The second sign of the zodiac. Fixed and earthy. Ruled by Venus. Emblem: The Bull. More about Taurus.

Terms

Each sign has a range of terms, ruled by one of the five classical planets (Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn). A planet in its own terms is strengthened, while a planet in the terms of another is coloured (acts "in terms of") that planet. Thus Saturn in terms of Venus has reduced potential for malevolence, while Venus in terms of Mars has less power for benefit, more power of action and so on. The tables of terms have largely fallen into disuse in modern times. Here is the traditional order of planetary potencies:
Sign, Exaltation, Triplicity, Terms, Faces

Testimony

Refers to configurations, positions etc which indicate certain things.

Tetragonous

Square (90 degree) aspect.

Third House

The third chart segment. Governs communications, memory, siblings, local travel and mentality.

Transit

A planet's movement (subsequent to birth) over or in aspect to factors in the natal or progressed chart, or in aspect to other transiting factors.

Translation of Light

A planet separating from an aspect to a slower moving planet forms an aspect to another while still within orb of the original aspect. This forms a chain of influence between the three factors.

Transmutation

The advantageous utilization, on the part of a controlled and developed character, of an astrological influence which otherwise might exert a destructive and disruptive force. It is a term borrowed from the alchemists who sought to transmute baser metals into gold, whereby to suggest a process of spiritual alchemy through which a baser emotion is dedicated to a noble purpose.

Trans-personal Planets

Uranus, Neptune and Pluto.

Trans-Pluto

Aka Bacchus or Persephone, this planet is postulated as orbiting beyond the outermost known planet, Pluto. It has been proposed that it rules Taurus.

Trecile

See Tredecile.

Tredecile (sesquiquintile)

Kepler's 108 degree aspect, which is somewhat favourable. Used in Horary Astrology.

Trigon

See Triplicity.

Trine

Major favourable aspect of 120 degrees.

Triplicity

Water: Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces

Tropic

The line of lattitude, approx. 23° 28' either north (Cancer) or south (Capricorn) of the equator, corresponding to the furthest point of the ecliptic. The place where the Sun pauses, then reverses its declination at the summer and winter solstices.

Tropical Signs

Cancer and Capricorn.

Twelfth House

The twelfth chart segment. Governs self-undoing, institutions, secret enemies, hidden weaknesses, bondage, anxieties, limitations, confinement, dreams, and the subconscious.

Under the Sun's Beams

Within 17 degrees of the Sun. Any planet here is weakened, though more so if combust (within 8 degrees 30 minutes). Not so important in natal astrology.

Uranian Planets

Planets postulated to lie beyond the orbit of Pluto.

Uranus

It has been deemed to rule Aquarius and have its exaltation in Scorpio. It stands for unexpected disruptions and sudden catastrophes.

Venus

The evening and morning star, a planet symbolising matters to do with love, affection, the arts and so on. Ruler of Taurus and Libra. Exalted in Pisces. The lesser benefic. More about Venus.

Vesta

The Goddess of the Hearth. An asteroid seen by modern astrologers as significant. More about Asteroids.

Vespertine

A planet setting in the evening after sunset. See Matutine.

Vernal Equinox

Spring Equinox (northern hemisphere). The first degree of Aries, the beginning of the astrological year.

Verticle

The prime verticle or circle of observation is the circle in which an observer stands when facing south. This circle is divided into 12 equal parts, comprising the 12 houses through which the signs and planets seem to pass obliquely in their apparent diurnal motion from east to west.

Virgintile (semi-decile)

One of Kepler's minor aspects. 18 degrees, somewhat positive.

Virgo

The sixth sign of the zodiac. Mutable and earthy. Ruled by Mercury. Emblem: The Virgin with a sheaf of wheat. More about Virgo.

Vulcan

A hypothetical planet supposed to lie inside the orbit of Mercury, but always on the opposite side of the Sun from the Earth, making it invisible. Originally postulated to account for perturbations in planetary orbits, this planet is no longer supposed to exist by science, although some astrologers claim it as a sort of "spiritual entity" having power in a horoscope

Water Element

One of the four astrological elements. A feminine element, it stands for emotion, feeling, matters to do with intuition and so on. The other elements are, Fire, Air and Earth.

Water Signs

Cancer (cardinal), Scorpio (fixed), Pisces (mutable)

Yod

See Finger of God.

Zenith

The point directly overhead, or highest point.

Zodiac

The "circle of animals". A zone or belt through which the planets move. Around 15 to 18 degrees wide, it is divided into 12 signs, each of 30 degrees longitude.

Zodiacal Aspects

Aspects in the zodiac, measured by sign and degree. See Aspects.

Zodiacal Parallel

See Parallel Aspects.