Astrology Glossary

The zodiac sign that was rising on the eastern horizon at the exact time of your birth. It represents your outward personality and first impressions.

The geometric angle formed between two planets in a birth chart. Aspects show how planetary energies interact and influence each other.

Two people born at the same time and place, sharing identical birth charts. Used to study the influence of environment vs. astrology.

A snapshot of the celestial bodies at the exact moment of your birth, showing planetary positions and their relationships.

The three most important components of your birth chart: Sun sign (core identity), Moon sign (emotional nature), and Rising sign (outward personality).

An aspect where two planets are very close together (0° apart). Their energies blend and intensify each other.

The boundary line between two zodiac signs or houses. People born on a cusp may exhibit traits of both signs.

When a planet is very close to the Sun (within 8°), making it difficult to express its energy clearly.

Each zodiac sign is divided into three 10° sections called decans, each with its own planetary ruler and characteristics.

The strength or weakness of a planet in a particular sign or house. Planets in dignity are stronger and more effective.

A planet's home sign where it functions most naturally and powerfully (e.g., Mars in Aries, Venus in Taurus).

When the Sun, Moon, and Earth align, creating either a solar eclipse (New Moon) or lunar eclipse (Full Moon).

A planet's most powerful position in a sign (e.g., Sun in Aries, Moon in Taurus). Planets in exaltation are honored and strengthened.

The four fundamental qualities in astrology: Fire (action), Earth (practicality), Air (intellect), Water (emotion).

One of 12 sections of the birth chart representing different areas of life (career, relationships, home, etc.).

A forecast of astrological influences for a specific time period, often daily, weekly, or monthly.

The highest point in the birth chart (10th house cusp), representing career, reputation, and life purpose.

The zodiac sign the Moon was in at your birth, representing your emotional nature and inner self.

The flexible, adaptable signs: Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, and Pisces. They represent change and versatility.

See Birth Chart. The astrological map created for the moment of your birth.

The Lunar Nodes (North Node and South Node) represent your life purpose and past life karma.

An aspect where planets are 180° apart, creating tension and the need for balance between opposing energies.

The allowable margin of error for an aspect to be considered valid (usually 6-10° depending on the aspect).

Celestial bodies that influence different aspects of human life and personality in astrology.

The planet of transformation, power, death, and rebirth. Represents deep psychological change and regeneration.

A technique where planets are moved forward in time to show how your birth chart evolves throughout life.

An aspect of 150° between planets, representing adjustment and compromise between incompatible energies.

A minor aspect of 72°, associated with creativity and unique talents.

When a planet appears to move backward from Earth's perspective, intensifying its energy and requiring review.

See Ascendant. The sign on the eastern horizon at your birth, representing your outward personality.

An aspect of 60° between planets, representing opportunity and positive cooperation.

An aspect of 90° between planets, creating tension and the need for action to resolve challenges.

The zodiac sign the Sun was in at your birth, representing your core identity and life purpose.

The comparison of two birth charts to understand relationship compatibility and dynamics.

The current position of planets and how they interact with your birth chart at any given time.

An aspect of 120° between planets, representing harmony, ease, and natural talent.

The 12 constellations that form a belt around Earth, each 30° wide, through which the Sun, Moon, and planets travel.