Astrology 101, Part 5: The Last Six Signs of the Zodiac

Astrology 101, Part 5: The Last Six Signs of the Zodiac

In this post, we continue with the symbolism of the signs of the Zodiac.  The signs can be considered as energy filters that colour the action of every planet in the chart.  In that sense, we look at them not only in terms of identity (the Sun sign), but also for emotional reactions (Moon sign), communication approach (Mercury sign) and so on.

So, let’s take a look at thumbnail sketches of the last six signs of the Zodiac.  What images do they conjure up for us?  What are their archetypal identities?  What growthful journeys do they suggest we need to take as we mature in life?

Libra, 7^th sign of the Zodiac

The Scales, impersonal and inanimate, strive for balance and harmony.  They weigh the opposing options, evaluate relationships, measure aesthetics.  Its identity is partnership; the journey is to reach equilibrium.

Scorpio, 8^th sign of the Zodiac

The Scorpion, but also the ancient Eagle, is the intense, emotional power of life and death.  Its feelings so sharp, so deep, it fears to expose them.  The Scorpion’s identity is power and privacy; the journey to live every moment as if it were the last.

Sagittarius, 9^th sign of the Zodiac

The Archer’s sights are set in the distance, wherever his arrow may fall.  He is the gypsy, the student, the philosopher. The Sagittarius identity is faith and journeying; his journey is unceasing quest.

Capricorn, 10^th sign of the Zodiac

The Sea-Goat, an impossible combination in reality, is the symbol of ultimate, absolute power.  Ambitious, mountain-climbing, the Sea-Goat seeks worldly status.  But its identity lies in its inner integrity; its journey solitude and personal honour.

Aquarius, 11^th sign of the Zodiac

The Water Bearer, despite its name, is an Air sign and a seeker of knowledge.  He seeks perfect solutions, utopias, ultimate truth.  His identity is intellectual freedom; his journey individuality perfected in the collective.

Pisces, 12^th sign of the Zodiac

The Fishes swim in the vast ocean of all human emotion, the collective connection to Spirit.  They feel for everything and everyone, to the point where escape for the world seems the only option.  Their identity is compassion; their journey the return to Source.

The signs are grouped together in a number of different ways—yin/yang, element and mode—that help us further understand their characteristics.

Next up: Categories of Signs of the Zodiac