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The Geometry of Astrology
Aspects and Angles
Aspects: Just like the degrees of a circle, there are 360 degrees in the circle of the horoscope. Many old calendars (such as the Persian) used 360 days for a year, and when they watched the stars probably saw them revolve around the North Star one degree per day. The concept of one degree representing a year is also used with secondary progressions. The ancient Greeks liked multiples of 60 and also decided to have 360 degrees in a full circle of rotation.
We find astronomers roughing out a degree as the width of your pinky finger. So, if you are looking into the night sky and see the bright evening star Venus visually on pinky away from the Moon, than they are one degree apart. We represent this on the circle of the horoscope using traditional geometrical delineations, and there are many possibilities to consider but we will look at the primary ones here. In the circle of the horoscope, If two planets form an angle, they are said to be in aspect to each other and have a relationship together. This relationship can be more or less challenging depending on how the planetary natures and signs and elements get along naturally, but it is also largely dependent on the consciousness or awareness of the person and how they approach the inherent internal dynamics. Although there are many angles that are considered and used in Astrology (it can get very complicated!), the most important ones are: Conjunction: These are the most powerful aspects in a chart…your points of power, if you will. The energies of both planets are merged together within 7 - 10 degrees of each other, usually in the same sign. They are deeply and unconsciously identified with each other. They also give extra emphasis to the house they are contained in. Sextile: 60 degrees apart, generally with a 5 degree orb (the leeway given to the number of degrees apart on either side), and usually in compatible elements or two signs apart. There is a happy flow of energy between with this aspect and an opportunity to create a positive expression from the combined dynamic of the planets. Square: 90 degrees apart with a 7 degree orb, and usually in the same modality or three signs apart. Planets with this aspect create a powerhouse of energy flow that is hard to handle and is also hard to ignore. There is the opportunity for great productivity through the dynamic tension. It is however, also a demanding aspect that asks for extra effort be given to produce an effect beyond one’s original abilities. This also builds strength, character and fortitude! Trine: These planets love the sound of each other’s voices and relate well and creatively with each other. They are 120 degrees apart (7 degree orb) and usually in the same element and 4 signs apart. These easy energies can also be taken so for granted that they may not be noticed or can be lazy. Inconjunct: These planets just don’t understand each other and there is an inherent level of tension and crisis which will need to be resolved at some point, usually triggered with an outer planet (Pluto, Neptune, Uranus) transit. The degrees apart is roughly 150 (with a smaller org of less than 5 degrees) and in both different modalities and elements. Opposition: These planets are 180 degrees apart and usually in the same modality, compatible element, and 6 signs apart. They are two sides of the same coin and need to keep in dialogue with each other so that balance is created. Each degree is also broken down into 60 minutes. So there are 360 degrees in a circle, and 60 minutes in a degree. The degree is shown on your chart as the slightly larger number between the planet and the sign
Return from Aspects and Angles to Astrology Primer
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