Astrology aspect symbols represent the geometric angles formed between two planets or points in an astrological chart. They provide insight into the relationship and energy flow between different parts of a person’s birth chart. Learning to interpret aspect symbols allows astrologers to synthesize chart information and make deeper predictions.
What Are Aspects in Astrology?
Aspects are one of the core techniques used in astrological interpretation. An aspect is formed when two astrological bodies (usually planets, but also Sun, Moon, Ascendant, etc.) form a significant angle (mathematical relationship) to one another in the horoscope chart.
The most commonly used aspects are:
Conjunction (0°)
Two planets at the same zodiac degree, united and intensified.
Sextile (60°)
Two planets 60 degrees apart, suggests opportunity, creativity and growth.
Square (90°)
Two planets 90 degrees apart, suggests tension, obstacles, challenges.
Trine (120°)
Two planets 120 degrees apart, suggests harmony, ease, flow.
Opposition (180°)
Two planets 180 degrees apart, suggests contrast, tension, relationships.
There are also minor aspects like the quincunx (150°), semisextile (30°), etc. that advanced astrologers use.
The Magic of Aspect Symbols
Aspect symbols provide a visual shorthand for astrologers to quickly see relationship patterns in a chart. Just glancing at the aspects between planets gives clues about areas of a person’s life that will flow smoothly or need work.
Here’s a breakdown of the unique energy behind each major aspect:
The Conjunction – Unity
The conjunction symbol looks like a circle atop a circle (⊕), representing fusion of planetary energies. It is the most powerful major aspect, uniting two planetary forces into a combined influence.
In the birth chart, conjunctions show parts of life that work together seamlessly. For example, someone with Venus conjunct Jupiter has abundant luck and joy around relationships and art.
The Sextile – Opportunity
The sextile symbol is a 60° aspect line (⚹), implying a perfect opportunity. Sextiles activate planetary potentials through small adjustments.
People with many sextiles often have inherent talents they can develop if they seize opportunities. A Moon-Mars sextile suggests bravery and action in pursuing goals.
The Square – Challenge
The square symbol is a 90° angle (□) indicating friction and obstacles. Squares compel struggle and achievement by pitting opposite drives against each other.
An individual with Saturn square their Sun may deal with limitations in expressing themselves freely. They learn self-discipline and resilience in managing the square.
The Trine – Harmony
The trine symbol is a 120° line (⚺) showing planetary energies working in sync. Trines produce well-being, balance and natural abilities when planets exchange positive energy.
For example, a Mercury trine Jupiter person is gifted with language skills and intellectual optimism. Trines provide ongoing support.
The Opposition – Relationships
The opposition symbol appears as 180° straight line (⚊). Oppositions generate awareness through contrast between planets in dialogue.
People with Venus opposite Mars are extremely aware of relationships and partnerships, as their social and sexual drives counterbalance each other. They may attract significant others.
Unlocking Your Chart with Aspect Analysis
Once you understand the core meanings of the aspects, you can synthesize huge amounts of chart information. Aspects give clues about which life areas will flow or be challenging overall based on how the planets relate.
Observing patterns like stelliums, t-squares, grand trines and yods gives further insight into an astrological chart. Aspects are the astrologer’s keys to unlocking each chart’s unique story.
They reveal shining destinies waiting to be fulfilled when planets work harmoniously together. They also show inner tensions needing resolution for growth when planets square off or oppose one another.
Learning aspect analysis provides a powerful tool for predicting cycles and themes in an individual’s life. Mastering the magic of aspect symbols allows astrologers to provide deep and accurate readings.
References
Hand, Robert. “Planetary Aspects.” Arhat Publications, 2011.
Harding, Mike. “Astrology Aspect Meanings and Interpretations.” ThoughtCo, 2021.
Loewenberg, Sally. “Llewellyn’s Complete Book of Astrology.” Llewellyn Publications, 2010.
Mitchell, C.J. “Planetary Threads: Patterns of Relating Among Family and Friends.” Ibis Press, 2010.
Pelletier, Robert. “Planets in Aspect: Understanding Your Inner Dynamics.” Whitford Press, 1984.
Rabinovitch, Shelley von. “Aspects in Astrology.” Weiser Books, 2002.
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