Basic Astrological Terms - What Do They Mean?

ASTROLOGY - the ancient science and philosophy teaching of the planetary energies and their particular effects upon life on our earth.

ZODIAC - the twelve-fold divisions of the entirety of the 360 degrees of the heavens into the known constellations - Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, Pisces.

SYMBOLS are used to represent each zodiacal sign and planet by traditional symbols.

Natal Chart, Birth Chart - is a map of the individual person or project under scrutiny. In western astrology it takes a circular pattern and is divided into the twelve Houses or sections before the entering of the zodiacal signs, planets and other information. The Birth Chart is retained as a basic analysis of individual traits that are usually retained throughout lifetime. It can be regularly upgraded to allow for the changing planetary positions that occur over time as the system of the Progressions that in the hands of an expert astrologer can explain changing circumstances and offer future guidance.

Place and Time of Birth: are of equal importance if the Chart, and its interpretation are to prove accurate. Even minutes can alter features that can be critical. The calculations must be done by a professional who can explore the time zones and differences and allow for daylight saving for instance, which is common in some countries and locations. Most astrologers are faced with having to work without having been given an exact birth time. Once records were conscientiously kept in hospitals, church and genealogical papers but now often left to the families to take note. The astrologer has a means of checking whether the given time is likely to be accurate.

Ephemeris is the official astronomical data provided by Greenwich regarding the placements of the Sun, Moon, planets and their angles of relationship to one another. This allows the casting of an individual Chart or Horoscope, to be drawn up and the Rising Sign established.

Sun Sign/ Birth Sign - is the zodiacal sign in which the sun is placed at the time of your birth.

Rising Sign - is the zodiacal sign appearing on the horizon at the moment of your birth, measured according to its degree of ascent (1degree to 30 degrees) This is usually a different sign from the Sun Sign but can be the same, which intensifies the features of the Sun Sign as a strong factor in the life of the individual.

Aspects - the relationship of the planets described by their placemen to a degree and also their angle one to another. Some are harmonious and compatible, other angles indicate difficulties.
Houses are the 30 degree twelve divisions of the circular Chart numbered in sequence commencing from the section below the horizontal point on the left of the horizon line. This makes the twelfth House the section above the horizon. Each section is important as it relates to specific affairs in the lives of each.

Midheaven is the highest point or apex of the chart and is considered as of particular importance if a planet is placed there to directly beam its influence upon the individual or subject at the central point of the chart..

Elements (Triplicities) are understood to relate to the fundamental 4 types of energy emitted by the constellations and described as either fire, earth, air or water and it is recorded the number of planets that are placed in each of the zodiacal signs at our birth - as a factor considered in interpreting a Chart.

Qualities (Quadruplicites) describes 3 groupings of the zodiacal signs - the first known as cardinal or powerful, the second as fixed or stable and resistant to change and the third as mutable or adaptable.

Horoscope - this is the final analysis and report presented to an individual when the whole process is complete. It offers a summation of the positives and negatives in every aspect of the person's life and by indications of certainties, offers a path towards overcoming any adversities to allow virtues and positive talents to have uppermost expression.

Throughout history, horoscopes have been considered important for various reasons from assessing health, suitable marriage contracts, fixing appropriate times for ceremonies and events (e.g as used by Queen Elizabeth I for her coronation) in peace and in warfare, for spiritual purposes and mundane such as gambling. But the most profound benefits from Astrology come from our aspiration to know ourselves, to better understand Universal Life and to become aware of our role in contributing to the welfare of the whole.

Elizabeth S. Adams is known for her published "Forgotten Dreams - a collection of Poetry" with additional interests that extend to Astrology,Astronomy and mystical subjects that help us understand who we are and our place in the Universe.

Astrology when applied to self understanding of our personality and deeper soul potentials is a great practical starting point. We also need assistance to unveil the special inner talents of our soul so we feel confident to offer our contribution to the world. Astrology is such an aid.

Visit her site http://www.spirit-of-astrology.com

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