Zodiacal Symbolism
The symbols used in western astrology to represent the spheres of constellations have their origin in antiquity.
The basic symbol used for each zodiacal sign is still in use today, although there have been minor changes over time.
Aries – the Ram
This is drawn to represent the horns of the ram designed to represent the power of the militant fighter and leader who depicts the dogged courage and energetic force of the planet Mars – the pioneer.
Taurus – the Bull
Shows the harmonious combination of the circular sun with the crescent moon as its crown – this was associated with the earth power of the bull as well as the goddess of all nurturing qualities including the arts and beauty – with Venus its ruler.
Gemini – the Twins
Shows twins depicted as separate entities but united by a line above and below to show the dual nature that is characteristic of its influence upon the mind – Mercury is its planetary ruler.
Cancer – the Crab
The sign is created by two small circles, each with a tail and fitting together in a way symbolic of the shy crab or as some depict, of two spermatozoa. Each circle describes the moon phases to illustrate the emotional influence of this sign ruled by the Moon.
Leo – the Lion
This sign has changed somewhat over time when the circle representing the Sun, the ruler of this sign was more dominant but the mane of the lion, king of the beasts, remains under royal influence of the Sun.
Virgo – the Virgin
The universal M sign of the spiritual mother or feminine principle is here to represent the nurturing of all things of value in thought and studies. The energy is magnetic and introvert and associated with the purity of maidenhood. Mercury is its ruler.
Libra – the Scales
Representing equilibrium, balance and justice and the scales by which law is administered – still is retained in modern legal symbolism. Venus is its ruling planet.
Scorpio – the Scorpion
Again the M sign of the masculine sex symbol of extrovert expression and a reminder of the inherent danger in the use of sexual energy for self gratification instead of perceived as a sacred trust for creativity. Once considered that Mars is ruler – now generally considered to be Pluto.
Sagittarius – the Archer
The design is always an attempt to show half human, half animal – a generous combination of qualities that show an influence demanding choices between earthly pursuits and the heavenly goal of his arrow – Jupiter is its expansive ruler
Capricorn – the Goat
The ram’s horn and the curves that show tangled tusks of the mountain goat that can climb up to the heights of ambition should it keep free of entanglements. It indicates the power to overcome problems ever seeking to be of service – it is ruled by Saturn
Aquarius – the Water Bearer
Usually there is a little confusion here. Once water was considered the traditional power but now it is seen rather as electrical as we witness the gradual alteration from two horizontal waving lines to the vertical – Uranus the planet is its ruler for the Aquarian New Age
Pisces – the Fishes
Two curved crescent moons back to back and bound by a horizontal line indicates the emotional life and restraints of this zodiacal sign that allows supreme sacrifices to be made through selflessness –the planet Neptune is its ruler.
