Post by Calli on Jul 21, 2014 8:10:59 GMT
Here's a bunch of definitions I've compiled in for my "book." This may help understand things.
If you have any questions, don't be afraid to ask below. :3 Also, let me know if there's anything I should add or expand upon.
Acronycal is a way of describing a planet that is in opposition of the sun, and therefore in a favorable position for astronomical observation. Aconycal place is the degree a planet will occupy when it is in opposition to the Sun.
Absolute longitude translates the Zodiac degrees into the 360° of the Zodiac Circle, and is used for Astrological Calculations. The principle is simple - 0° Aries is the beginning of the circle, and is considered 0° in absolute longitude. 18° Taurus becomes 48° in absolute longitude – the 18° of Taurus is added to the 30° covered by Aries.
When calculations result in a number higher than 360°, one whole circle has been calculate, so this amount is subtracted to find the equivalent zodiac degree. So, 408° - 360° = 48,° or 18° Taurus.
Active Influence is an aspect between two or more astrological factors or sensitive points that will produce an action that can manifest in an event.
Adjusted Calculation Date refers to a directed or progressed horoscope, as indicating the date on which the planet culminates. Also termed Limiting Date.
Affinity in Astrologer refers to planets with mutual attraction. The Sun has an affinity with all the planets. Mars and Venus have an affinity in a physical sense. Venus has an affinity with Jupiter in a philanthropic sense. Venus has an affinity with Mars in an artistic sense.
Affliction is an unfavorable placement of a planet. This can happen in four major ways – weak sign placement, aspects to another afflicted planet, or placement in a negative house, or by retrogradation.
Air Signs are the Air Triplicity; Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius.
The Almuten is the strongest planet in the Chart, when all essential dignities are considered. The method of identifying the almuten involves considering the full range of essential dignities, so that rulership by sign, exaltation, triplicity, term and face is considered - not just rulership by sign.
Altitude in Astronomy and Astrology refer to a celestial body or point’s elevation above the horizon, measured by the arc of a vertical circle. A planet is at Meridian Altitude when it is at the Midheaven.
The Alcoccoden is a calculated planet in a Natal Chart (in relation to the Hyleg) used to calculate longevity.
The Anareta is a planet that unfavorably aspects the Hyleg. Also referred to as an Anaretic Planet.
Anaretic Point or Anaretic Place refers to the degree occupied by the Anareta.
Androgynous in Astrology refers (usually) to a planet that has both masculine and Feminine Characteristics. This is often applied to Mercury, because of its dual and changeable nature.
Angles in Astrology refer to the four cardinal points of the figure (or map). This includes the South Vertical (Midheaven), North Veridical (Imum Coeli), East Horizon (Ascendant), and West Horizon (Descendant). These are the most important arcs in Astrology, and therefore, planets therein become intensely more powerful, both positively or negatively.
Angular refers to the Houses that bear a correspondence to the Cardinal Signs. Includes Houses 1, 4, 7, and 10. Angular Planets are those that occupy these Houses.
Anomaly is the angular distance of a planet from its perihelion or aphelion.
Antipathy refers to disharmony of two bodies (usually planets) which rule or are exalted in opposite Signs. Ex, Saturn ruling Capricorn has an antipathy for the Moon ruling Cancer.
Aphelion is a point in an orbit where the celestial object is furthest from the Sun.
Apogee refers to the point in the orbit of the Moon or a satellite which it is furthest from the earth (or planet it revolves around).
Apparent Motion refers to how things appear to move rather than how they really are moving. Because of the rotation of the Earth, the planets (and Sun) appear to rise in the East and travel to the west, while they actually move in the opposite direction. The Signs and stars appear to travel westwards as well, but actually do not move at all. In Astrology, when we refer to the motion of the heavens, we refer to the way it appears when gazed upon from Earth, rather than its actual movement or actual position.
Aquarius is the 11th Sign of the Zodiac.
Arabic Parts refer to mathematical formulas based on positions of different Planets and Points, each with its own implications for what positive or negative energies or experiences you may encounter in your life. The most commonly used one is Part of Fortune.
An Arc mathematically refers to a portion or segment of a curved line, such as a circle or ellipse. Applied to Astronomy and astrology, and arc can be used to calculate distances on the celestial sphere, or orbital differences between two bodies or points.
The Arc of Vision is used to reference the shortest distance between a Sun and Planet, where the Sun is below the horizon and therefore rendering the planet visible.
Aries is the 1st Sign of the Zodiac.
Ascendant refers to the degree of the Zodiac that appeared on the Eastern Horizon at the time calculated (Birth time is used for Natal Charts) and is used as the Cusp of the First House. This is often modernly loosely applies to the whole of the Rising Sign and First House, along with the specific degree on the horizon.
Ascending refers to the motion of all the planets in the Eastern Hemisphere (or left side of the chart) that are moving from below the horizon, to the highest points of the sky, by virtue of the Earth’s rotation.
Aspect refers to angular relationships between two celestial bodies physical location along the Zodiac. Aspects can also be measured between mathematical points (such as the Moon’s Nodes, or Cusps of the Houses).
Asterism refers to a recognizable pattern of stars in the sky, (as opposed to a Constellation which is a mathematically define geometric divisions of the sky, as opposed to the Zodiac Signs which are 30° portions of the Zodiac belt).
Asteroids refer to the significant bodies in the heavens, not classified as Planets, but with the same functionality. Includes Ceres, Chiron, Juno, Pallas, Vesta, Eros, and Psyche.
Astrotheology is a system of theology founded on what was known of the heavenly bodies, and the laws that regulate their movements.
Astromancy is a system of divination by means of the Stars, the practice of which has been caused the association between Astrology and fortune-telling, which modern scientific Astrology is still trying to live down.
Astrological Ages refer to the 2150 year period during which the point of the Spring Equinox recedes through one sign of the Zodiacal Constellations.
Astrology is the study of the movement of and relative positions of the planets through the Zodiac and how they are interpreted as having an effect on people. There are two basic systems of Astrology: Western/Tropical and Vedic. Both practice several different branches, including Natal, Horary, Electional, Mundane, Medical, Meteorological, and Agricultural.
Azimene, mostly in traditional (or ancient Astrology) is a way to describe a planet that is in a weak or lame position, that if it were to be ascending at birth, the native would be blind, lame, or otherwise physically afflicted.
Babylonia was an ancient civilization, with its capital city of Babylon being in the Euphrates valley. After 2250 BC, this was the center of world commerce, arts, and science. This is where the modern Zodiac was created, as well as the 12 Houses. The Babylonians were also the first to focus on an individual, rather than a forecast.
Beholding Signs are two signs that are equidistance from the Solstices. These pairs are, Gemini and Cancer, Taurus and Leo, Aries and Virgo, Libra and Pisces, Scorpio and Aquarius, Sagittarius and Capricorn. Ptolemy deemed them to be “of equal power,” but was only applied when two such signs were joined by a body in each mutually aspected.
Benefic Planets are Jupiter, the “Greater Fortune,” and Venus, the “Lesser Fortune.”
Besieged refers to when a benefic planet is situated between to malefics, and is therefore, unfortunately placed.
Bestial Signs refer to those which have by symbolized by animals – Aries, Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, the last half of Sagittarius, Capricorn, and Pisces.
Bicorporeal refers to double-bodied signs – Gemini, Sagittarisu, and Pisces. It was originally employed by Ptolemy, and was originally the only term he used to characterize the signs now designated as Mutable. Thus, he also classified Virgo as bicorporeal. Modernly, this is replaced by “Dual Signs”.
Birth Moment is generally accepted to be the moment of the first breath, after the ligation of the umbilical cord. This is the moment the infant ceases to receive blood, oxygen, and other nutrients from its mother. The child must condition its own blood to Earth’s magnetic field and take in its own oxygen and nutrients. The time is always reduced to Standard Time, and adjusted to Greenwich world-time to calculate the planets places, then readjusted to Local Mean Time at the birth place, to determine the Ascendant and Houses.
Cacodemon was once employed to refer to an evil spirit within the twelfth house, but is no longer in use.
Cadent is a term used to describe the Houses which fall away from the Angles – the Third, Sixth, Ninth, and Twelfth Houses. Cadent Planets are those which occupy cadent Houses, and whose influence is thereby weakened.
Cancer is the 4th Sign of the Zodiac.
Capricorn is the 10th Sign of the Zodiac.
Cardinal Signs are those which cusps (beginnings) coincide with the cardinal points of the compass: Aries, East; Cancer, North; Libra, West; Capricorn, South.
Casting the Horoscope is a term used by Astrologers to imply the calculations necessary to be made prior to the description of the Birth Moment, and therefore, the native.
Cazmi is when a planet is within 0º17’ of the Sun, and considered strengthened by the Union. However, when a Planet is within 8º30’ of the Sun, and therefore hidden from sign by its light, it is considered to be weakened or restricted in power – this is called Combust. Similar to Combustion, is when a Planet is within 17º of the Sun, but beyond the Combust distance, it is “under the Sun’s beams,” which is debilitating, but not as severe as Combustion.
Celestial Sphere is a term used to refer to the “imaginary” sphere that surrounds the Earth, and upon which all the heavenly bodies both rest and travel. This is used in both Astronomy and Astrology, to measure distances, relative positions, and movements of the celestial bodies.
Ceres is the first of the Asteroids to be discovered, named after a Roman Goddess of growing vegetation.
Character – the sublime strength of Astrology is in its ability to predict/describe character. Since destiny is subservient to character, no prediction should be made until the patterns of emotional stimulation and environment are understood. Character is the cumulative result of one’s collective experiences. Astrology can determine the nature of one’s reactions, while the reaction takes place only when called into play by some accidental encounter with a stimulus in the environment.
Chart, also referred to as Figure, is an astrological or Celestial Figure, variously called Geniture, Map, Scheme, Chart, Theme, Mirror of Heaven, Nativity or Horoscope, as cast, erected or drawn by modern astrologers, consists of a circle of the heavens, representing the 360° of the Earth's orbit, divided into twelve arcs - resembling a wheel of twelve spokes. This is then used to plot the Planets, Houses, and various other astrological attributes for the desired reading.
Circle is a geometric shape that has 360°. In Astrology, this can be used to reference the Zodiac, which is a belt of 360° with twelve 30° subsections.
Cold Planets refer to the Moon and Saturn.
Cold Signs refers to Taurus, Cancer, Virgo, Scorpio, Capricorn, and Pisces.
Conjunction is an Aspect of two planets, that are less than 7° apart (though the exact orb has been debated). Strictly speaking, a Conjunction is when two planets occupy the same place.
Constellation refers to the 90 subdivisions of the heavens, mostly named according to some of the asterisms they contain. Twelve of these groups lay along the ecliptic, and are thus known as the Zodiac Constellations.
Crooked Signs in traditional Astrology, refers to Taurus, Capricorn, and Pisces. If the Ascendant or Moon is in one of those signs, and Afflicted by the Malefic Planets, then the native may be crooked and imperfect.
Culmination is when a planet arrives at the South Meridian, or Midheaven, by progression, direction, or transit. It is when this planet is at the highest point in the Sky, completing its Ascending movement, before it begins to Descend.
A Cusp is an imaginary line separating a Sign from adjoining Signs, and a House from its adjoining Houses. Usually, the “Cusp” of a Sign or a House refers to the beginning of it. A planet is stronger when it is at a cusp, rather than in the last degrees of a House or Sign. Angular Cusps are therefore the strongest.
In ancient times, there was a small arc contiguous to the boundary line between adjacent Signs and Houses, wherein there was uncertainty to the planets location, and therefore ambiguity as to its influence. In modern times, this area is no longer in effect, as scientific advances allow us to calculate and see precise locations of the heavenly bodies.
Day – loosely speaking, a day is the period between sunrise and sunset, the period of daylight. In the Far East, it is the distance that can be traveled in 24 hours. In Astrological terms, a Diurnal (or Day) Chart is one cast for a birth moment in which the Sun was above the horizon, whereas a Nocturnal (or night) Chart is one cast for a moment when the Sun was below the horizon.
Day Triplicity, in traditional Astrology, maintained that during the Day some planets are stronger when positioned in certain elements. Ex, Saturn in Air, Sun in Fire, Mars in Water, Venus in Earth.
Debility refers to a planet disadvantageously placed by Sign and House position. Is often employed loosely as a synonym for Detriment.
The Decans, or Decanates, are three 10° subdivisions within the Zodiac Signs. Referred to in terms of First, Second, and Third Decans. They are interpreted based on a system of subrulership. The First Decan of a Sign is also subruled by the Ruler of that Sign. The second two decans are subruled by the other planetary rulers of the other Signs in the same Triplicity.
ex; Aries 1st decan is Mars, 2nd is Sun (rules Leo), and 3rd is Jupiter (rules Sagittarius)
Taurus 1st Decan is Mercury, 2nd is Mercury (rules Virgo), and 3rd is Saturn (rules Capricorn)
Declination is an Astronomical method of measuring distance North or South of the Celestial Equator. The maximum Declination of the Sun is 23° 28’, which occurs at the Solstices, when the Sun passes through the Tropics of Cancer and Capricorn.
Decumbiture is used in Horary Astrology for the moment when a person is taken ill, to judge the possible nature and duration of the illness.
A Degree both Astronomically and Astrologically refer to one 360th part of the circumference of a circle, specifically, the celestial sphere. A degree is subdivided into 60 equal parts, called minutes of arc, or simply minutes.
Descendant refers to the degree of the Zodiac that appeared on the Western Horizon at the time calculated (Birth time is used for Natal Charts) and is used as the Cusp of the Seventh House. This is often modernly loosely applies to the whole of the Seventh House, along with the specific degree on the horizon.
Descending refers to the motion of all the planets in the Western Hemisphere (or right side of the chart) that are moving from above the horizon, to the lowest point in the sky, by virtue of the Earth’s rotation.
Detriment applies to the placement of the planet in the opposite Sign from that which it is said to be the ruler.
Dignities and Debilities in Astrology are the conditions and placements of the planets, wherein their influences are strengthened (dignities) or weakened (debilities). When a planet is in a Sign it rules over (its Domicile), in a Sign which it is said to be exalted, or when in a planet that is the same Triplicity as its Ruler, it is considered to be Dignified. When a planet is in the Opposite Sign from it Ruler (in Detriment), in the Sign opposite to the Exaltation Sign (in Fall), or in the opposite Element, it is considered Debilitated. When it is in none if the above conditions, it is considered Peregrine, or neutral.
The Depositor in Astrology is the planet which is the Natural Ruler of the Sign or House. So, if an Arabic Part is in Aries in the 7th House, then the Depositor by Sign would be Mars and the Depositor by House would be Venus.
Diurnal Arc refers to refer to the path the Sun follows from Sunrise to Sunset. At the Equinoxes, the arc is 180°, which applies 12 hours of night and 12 hours of day. At higher latitudes on Earth, this arc becomes smaller. The Nocturnal Arc refers to however much of the 360° (or 24 hours of a day) are left after subtracting the Diurnal Arc.
Ex, if the Diurnal Arc is 180°, the Nocturnal is also 180°. If the Diurnal Arc is 100°, the Nocturnal Arc is 260°. If the Diurnal Arc is 210°, the Nocturnal Arc is 150°
Domicile is used to describe a planet that is placed in the Sign it rules.
Dry Signs are Aries, Taurus, Leo, Virgo, Sagittarius, and Capricorn.
The Ecliptic Astronomically is the Sun’s apparent path around the Earth.
Earth Signs are those of the Earth Triplicity: Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn.
The Ego in Astrology refers to the conscious feeling that “I am me.” In psychology, the Ego is a system of mental states, which is sometimes used synonymously with the mind.
Electional Astrology is a method used to choose a suitable time for commencing any reasonable project, endeavor, or event (such as a marriage, journey, law-suit, building operation, drawing up a will, buying a house, planting a garden, launching a ship, or moving into a new home).
The Elements in Astrology are used to describe the four fundamental natures, symbolized as Fire, Earth, Air, and Water.
The Ephemeris in an almanac listing the ephemeral or rapidly changing position which each of the solar system bodies will occupy on each day of the year: their Longitude, Latitude, Declination, and similar astronomical phenomena. The astronomer's Ephemeris lists these positions in heliocentric terms; that of the astrologer, in geocentric terms.
The Equinox is a point in the Earth’s annual orbit around the Sun, at which point the length of day and night are equal globally. This occurs at the Vernal Equinox, on March 20thth (the beginning of Aries), and the Autumnal Equinox on September 21st (the beginning of Libra).
Eros is an Asteroid discovered in 1898, named after the Greek God of Love, a divinity of fertility.
Esoteric refers to secret knowledge not accessible to the uninitiated. When such information is published, it becomes exoteric, meaning that the facts are now property to the rest of humanity.
Exaltation is when a Planet is in a Sign of similar nature to the one it Rules over. This planet will have strength and energy, and a positive influence.
Face, as employed by Ptolemy, is when a planet in a House that is distant counter-clockwise from the Moon, or clockwise from the Sun by the same number of Houses as the Sign, is in its Face. This means that Mercury is in its Face when in a House preceding that of the Moon, or following that of the Sun; Venus, when two Houses preceding or following; Mars, three Houses; Jupiter, four Houses; or Saturn, five Houses - duplicating in Houses from the actual Sun and Moon positions, the scheme of Sign-Rulership from Cancer and Leo, around to Capricorn and Aquarius. There is so much contradictory testimony with reference to this term that the entire subject has been ignored by many modern authorities.
Fall is when a planet is in the Opposite Sign as the Exaltation Sign, this sign causes the planets energy to lose strength and/or energy.
Feminine Signs are those of the Feminine Duality: Taurus, Cancer, Virgo, Scorpio, Capricorn, and Pisces.
A Figure is an astrological or Celestial Figure, variously called Geniture, Map, Scheme, Chart, Theme, Mirror of Heaven, Nativity or Horoscope, as cast, erected or drawn by modern astrologers, consists of a circle of the heavens, representing the 360° of the Earth's orbit, divided into twelve arcs - resembling a wheel of twelve spokes. This is then used to plot the Planets, Houses, and various other astrological attributes for the desired reading.
Fire Signs are those of the Fire Triplicity: Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius.
Fixed Signs are those of the Fixed Modality: Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, and Aquarius.
Ptolemy believed that Friendly Planets are ones that which have rulership, exaltation or triplicity in each other's Sign. Other authorities class them as follows:
• Sun - unfriendly only to Saturn.
• Moon - unfriendly only to Mars and Saturn.
• Venus - unfriendly only to Saturn.
• Mars - friendly with Venus only.
• Jupiter - unfriendly only to Mars.
• Saturn - friendly only to the Sun, Mercury and Jupiter.
Fruitful Signs in traditional Horary Astrology are Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces. If the Ascendant, Moon, or Lord of the Ascendant is strongly placed in one of those Signs, there are indications of children.
Gemini is the 3rd Sign of the Zodiac.
Grand Cross is an aspect involved 3 planets that in Square or Opposition to one another.
Grand Trine is an aspect pattern involving 3 planets that Trine one another.
A Hemisphere is a half-circle, either East or West of the meridian, or North or South of the Equator. In Astrology, this refers to the different halves of the Chart.
Horary Astrology is the art of interpreting the relationship between cosmic phenomena resulting from the ordered motions of the celestial bodies, and a thought, situation or event. It deals successfully only with concrete, well-defined queries, and its validity is subject to question when the particular problem to be analyzed is hazy in the mind of the querent, or ill-defined in its presentation to the astrologer. Since the Horary Figure centers around the person of the querent and his consciousness at the time of the query, a clear concept of the problem for which a solution is sought is essential if the heavens are faithfully to reflect the question and portray the outcome.
The Horizon in Astrology is the circle around the Earth that separates the visible and invisible hemispheres.
Horoscope is, strictly speaking, the Ascendant, since it is based on the “hour.” It is generally employed to refer to the Chart for a given date and hour, utilized by Astrologers for judgment of the Nativity, and for predictions in Mundane and Horary Astrology. In modern colloquial English, this is seen as a synonym for the Mundane predictions, Astrology, and Zodiac, but is not so.
Hot Signs refers to Aries, Gemini, Leo, Libra, Sagittarius, and Aquarius.
The Houses are 12 divisions of the chart, either equal in terms of space or time. Due to the inclination of the polar axis in its relationship to the Sun, the number of degrees which pass over the horizon in 2 hours varies with the time of year and the latitude of the place where the birth occurs. While the Midheaven-point moves reasonably steady from day to day throughout the year, the rising and setting-points vary, lengthening into the "long winter evenings" and shortening into the so-called "Daylight Saving" period of long days and short summer nights.
The Hyleg is a calculated point in a Natal Chart (usually the Sun, Moon, Ascendant, or Part of Fortune) that is used in calculating longevity.
The Imum Coeli is the cusp of the Fourth House, where the ecliptic meets the Meridian in the North, or where Sun is at midnight. This is sometimes loosely employed to refer to the whole Fourth House.
Inclination of Axis refers to the arc between a celestial bodies equators, and the plane of their orbit. The Earth has an Arc of 23½°. In addition, Mercury 72°, Venus 60°, the Mars 25°, Jupiter 3°, Saturn 26°, Uranus 102°, Neptune 155°, Pluto is unknown.
Inconjunct, also called Quincunx, is an Aspect of 150 degrees.
Leo is the 5th Sign of the Zodiac.
The Luminaries in Astrology is the subsection of the Planets that refers to the Sun and Moon.
Malefic Planets are those who exert a harmful influence: Mars and Saturn.
Medical Astrology is the branch of Astrology which looks at planetary causes of diseases.
The Medium Coeli, most often called the Midheaven in modern Astrology, is the cusp of the Tenth House. This is where the ecliptic meets the Meridian in the South, where Sun culminates at noon. This is sometimes loosely employed to refer to the whole Tenth House.
The Meridian Astronomically is a circle of Longitude that passes from the Southern point of the Horizon, through the Zenith, to the North Point of the Horizon. It coincides with Earth’s geographical longitude.
Meridian Altitude is an astronomical navigation method of calculating an observer's latitude. The simplest calculation of astronomical navigation and is when an observer determines his latitude by measuring the altitude of a heavenly object at the time of its meridian passage. Meridian passage is when the object passes the observer's meridian, i.e. passes through south or north. This is usually done with the sun for a noon latitude but can be done with any heavenly object. Noon is when the sun passes through the meridian.
Midpoints in Astrology refer to a calculated degree equidistant from two other planets. There is some debate as to their importance, and the width of orbs for aspects to these points.
Minutes, Astronomically and Astrologically refer to one sixtieth of a degree in an arc, marked 1’.
Mundane Astrology is a system of interpreting Astrology in terms of world trends, the destinies of nations and large groups of individuals, based on an analysis of the effects of Equinoxes, Solstices, New Moons, Eclipses, and planetary movements. It’s different from Natal Astrology, in the same manner than Psychology is different from Sociology; Natal Astrology studies the individual, Mundane Astrology studies the group. This is the tier of astrology that often predicts wide-reaching predictions, and is the most watered down and popularized, though ultimately criticized, by the media.
Mutable Signs are those of the Mutable Modality: Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, and Pisces.
Mute Signs, in traditional Astrology, are Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces. If one of them is on the Ascendant and Mercury is Afflicted, or if Mercury is aspected by a Malefic planet position in one of those signs, then the native is likely to develop a speech impediment.
Mutual Reception is when two planets are in each other’s domicile or exaltation.
Nadir is the lowest point below the Earth, or the opposite point to the Zenith. It is often mistakenly applied to the Imum Coeli, which is the cusp of the 4th House, or the Northern most point on the Meridian.
Natal Astrology, traditionally called Genethlical Astrology, is the department of Astrology that deals with nativities, and the influence of planets and Signs upon the life and character of an individual.
Native in Astrology refers to the subject of a Natal Chart.
Nativity in Astrology is used as a synonym for Birth Moment.
The Nodes of the Moon, traditionally called Caput Draconis or the Dragon’s head, and Cauda Draconis or the Dragon’s Tail, they’re modernly called the North and South Nodes. These are the points at which the Moon’s Orbit around the Earth intersects the ecliptic.
The Opposition is an Aspect wherein two bodies lay 180° apart.
Oriental and Occidental
Occident is from a Latin term for the West, meaning falling, setting, or perishing (as in sunset). Orient is from the Latin term for the East, meaning rising or emerging (as in sunrise).
If a planet is described as 'oriental of the Sun' it means that it precedes the Sun in diurnal motion, and appears in the east in the morning, rising before the Sun. Similarly, 'occidental of the Sun' means that it follows the sun by diurnal motion, and comes into view after sunset.
If a planet is described as 'oriental in the figure', it means that it is located near the ascendant which is the eastern angle, whilst 'occidental in the figure', means that it is located near the descendant which is the western angle.
Occidental hemisphere is the western/setting hemisphere, incorporating the 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th, and 9th houses. Oriental hemisphere - the eastern/rising hemisphere, incorporating the 4th, 3rd, 2nd, 1st, 12th, and 11th houses.
Occidental quarter - the quadrant of the chart that falls beneath the western horizon, incorporating the 4th, 5th and 6th houses. Also known as the phlegmatic quarter. Oriental quarter - the quadrant of the chart that rises from the eastern horizon, incorporating the 1st, 12th and 11th houses. Also known as the sanguine quarter.
An Orb in Astrology is space within which an aspect is judged to be effect. It is similar in function to the mathematical “plus or minus.” ± If an Aspect has an Orb of 5°, then at 5° less than the designated degree, or 5° more than the designated degree, it is still considered to be affective.
A Partile Aspect is one which is exact, within 1º of perfection.
Peregrine is said of a planet when it is not dignified nor debilitated.
Perihelion is a point in an orbit where the celestial object is closest to the Sun.
Pisces is the 12th Sign of the Zodiac.
Polarity in Astrology refers to two zodiac Signs that rest on opposite sides of the Zodiac. More commonly called “Opposite Signs,” also known as “Complimentary Signs.” These Signs are very similar in values, goals, objectives, etc, but have very different ways of approaching them.
Predictive Astrology is the branch that deals with forecasting future influences.
Quadrants in Astrology are four quarters of a Chart, measured from the Cusps of the Four Angular Houses.
• Quadrant 1 – Houses One, Two, and Three - Personal Identity
• Quadrant 2 – Houses Four, Five, and Six - Personal Expression
• Quadrant 3 – Houses Seven, Eight, and Nine - Social Identity
• Quadrant 4 – Houses Ten, Eleven, and Twelve - Personal Identity
The Quadriplicities in Astrology are groups of Four Signs of the same Modality – either Cardinal, Fixed, or Mutable.
The Quincunx, or Inconjunction, is an Aspect of 150°.
The Quadrupedal Signs in Traditional Astrology are the four-footed Signs: Aries, Taurus, Leo, Sagittarius and Capricorn, all of which represent quadrupeds. Those born when these ascend were said by the ancient astrologers to have the qualities of such animals: as bold as the lion, or as lustful as the goat.
Parellel in Astrology refers to when two bodies are at a point where they are equidistant from, and on opposite sides of, the Meridian or Horizon.
Retrograde is a term in Astronomy and Astrology that refers to the apparent backward motion of a celestial body.
Rising Sign is a term used to refer to the Sign the Ascendant is in.
Ruler is a term originally designed to describe a schematic arrangement of the Signs, wherein certain planets have a special potency in a certain sign or signs. This term has become over-used and over-worked, though there are some distinctions. The use of "ruler" in connection with the Houses, is confusing, and the rule generally recommended is: "Lord of a House; Ruler of a Sign." As indicating anatomical and geographical areas it is more precise to say "has dominion over" than to say "ruled by."
Sagittarius is the 9th Sign of the Zodiac.
Scorpio is the 8th Sign of the Zodiac.
Sextile is an Aspect between two planets of 60°.
Significators in Astrology are simply something chosen to signify something else; a person or the matter at hand.
Square is an Apect between two planets of 90°.
Stellium is when four celestial bodies are located in one House.
Succedent is a term used to describe the Houses which follow the Angular House – the Second, Fifth, Eight, and Eleventh Houses. Succedent Planets are those which occupy Succedent Houses.
Strength of a Planet refers to its Dignity (or debilitation) and its likeliness to have a strong or positive effect on the individual.
A T-Cross is an Aspect Pattern involving two planets in Opposition, each Squared by a Third planet.
Trine is an Aspect between two planets of 120°.
Taurus is the 2nd Sign of the Zodiac.
Virgo is the 6th Sign of the Zodiac.
Water Signs are those of the Water Triplicity: Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces.
Wet Signs are Gemini, Cancer, Libra, Scorpio, Aquarius, and Pisces
Zenith, mathematically, is the point directly overhead through which passes the Meridian circle. The closer a planet is to the Zenith, the more powerful its influence. The term is often loosely applied to the Cusp of the Tenth House, which is only the point where the ecliptic and meridian circle meet in the South.
Zodiac is a band in the celestial sphere that includes the 12 constellations (Aries, Taurus, Gemini, etc) signs through which the sun and planets appear to travel. This is why we refer to the 12 personality types as the “Zodiac Signs” as they are the 12 signs/constellations within the zodiac belt.
Zodiac Sign refers to one of the twelve 30° divisions of the Zodiac.
Absolute longitude translates the Zodiac degrees into the 360° of the Zodiac Circle, and is used for Astrological Calculations. The principle is simple - 0° Aries is the beginning of the circle, and is considered 0° in absolute longitude. 18° Taurus becomes 48° in absolute longitude – the 18° of Taurus is added to the 30° covered by Aries.
When calculations result in a number higher than 360°, one whole circle has been calculate, so this amount is subtracted to find the equivalent zodiac degree. So, 408° - 360° = 48,° or 18° Taurus.
Active Influence is an aspect between two or more astrological factors or sensitive points that will produce an action that can manifest in an event.
Adjusted Calculation Date refers to a directed or progressed horoscope, as indicating the date on which the planet culminates. Also termed Limiting Date.
Affinity in Astrologer refers to planets with mutual attraction. The Sun has an affinity with all the planets. Mars and Venus have an affinity in a physical sense. Venus has an affinity with Jupiter in a philanthropic sense. Venus has an affinity with Mars in an artistic sense.
Affliction is an unfavorable placement of a planet. This can happen in four major ways – weak sign placement, aspects to another afflicted planet, or placement in a negative house, or by retrogradation.
Air Signs are the Air Triplicity; Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius.
The Almuten is the strongest planet in the Chart, when all essential dignities are considered. The method of identifying the almuten involves considering the full range of essential dignities, so that rulership by sign, exaltation, triplicity, term and face is considered - not just rulership by sign.
Altitude in Astronomy and Astrology refer to a celestial body or point’s elevation above the horizon, measured by the arc of a vertical circle. A planet is at Meridian Altitude when it is at the Midheaven.
The Alcoccoden is a calculated planet in a Natal Chart (in relation to the Hyleg) used to calculate longevity.
The Anareta is a planet that unfavorably aspects the Hyleg. Also referred to as an Anaretic Planet.
Anaretic Point or Anaretic Place refers to the degree occupied by the Anareta.
Androgynous in Astrology refers (usually) to a planet that has both masculine and Feminine Characteristics. This is often applied to Mercury, because of its dual and changeable nature.
Angles in Astrology refer to the four cardinal points of the figure (or map). This includes the South Vertical (Midheaven), North Veridical (Imum Coeli), East Horizon (Ascendant), and West Horizon (Descendant). These are the most important arcs in Astrology, and therefore, planets therein become intensely more powerful, both positively or negatively.
Angular refers to the Houses that bear a correspondence to the Cardinal Signs. Includes Houses 1, 4, 7, and 10. Angular Planets are those that occupy these Houses.
Anomaly is the angular distance of a planet from its perihelion or aphelion.
Antipathy refers to disharmony of two bodies (usually planets) which rule or are exalted in opposite Signs. Ex, Saturn ruling Capricorn has an antipathy for the Moon ruling Cancer.
Aphelion is a point in an orbit where the celestial object is furthest from the Sun.
Apogee refers to the point in the orbit of the Moon or a satellite which it is furthest from the earth (or planet it revolves around).
Apparent Motion refers to how things appear to move rather than how they really are moving. Because of the rotation of the Earth, the planets (and Sun) appear to rise in the East and travel to the west, while they actually move in the opposite direction. The Signs and stars appear to travel westwards as well, but actually do not move at all. In Astrology, when we refer to the motion of the heavens, we refer to the way it appears when gazed upon from Earth, rather than its actual movement or actual position.
Aquarius is the 11th Sign of the Zodiac.
Arabic Parts refer to mathematical formulas based on positions of different Planets and Points, each with its own implications for what positive or negative energies or experiences you may encounter in your life. The most commonly used one is Part of Fortune.
An Arc mathematically refers to a portion or segment of a curved line, such as a circle or ellipse. Applied to Astronomy and astrology, and arc can be used to calculate distances on the celestial sphere, or orbital differences between two bodies or points.
The Arc of Vision is used to reference the shortest distance between a Sun and Planet, where the Sun is below the horizon and therefore rendering the planet visible.
Aries is the 1st Sign of the Zodiac.
Ascendant refers to the degree of the Zodiac that appeared on the Eastern Horizon at the time calculated (Birth time is used for Natal Charts) and is used as the Cusp of the First House. This is often modernly loosely applies to the whole of the Rising Sign and First House, along with the specific degree on the horizon.
Ascending refers to the motion of all the planets in the Eastern Hemisphere (or left side of the chart) that are moving from below the horizon, to the highest points of the sky, by virtue of the Earth’s rotation.
Aspect refers to angular relationships between two celestial bodies physical location along the Zodiac. Aspects can also be measured between mathematical points (such as the Moon’s Nodes, or Cusps of the Houses).
Asterism refers to a recognizable pattern of stars in the sky, (as opposed to a Constellation which is a mathematically define geometric divisions of the sky, as opposed to the Zodiac Signs which are 30° portions of the Zodiac belt).
Asteroids refer to the significant bodies in the heavens, not classified as Planets, but with the same functionality. Includes Ceres, Chiron, Juno, Pallas, Vesta, Eros, and Psyche.
Astrotheology is a system of theology founded on what was known of the heavenly bodies, and the laws that regulate their movements.
Astromancy is a system of divination by means of the Stars, the practice of which has been caused the association between Astrology and fortune-telling, which modern scientific Astrology is still trying to live down.
Astrological Ages refer to the 2150 year period during which the point of the Spring Equinox recedes through one sign of the Zodiacal Constellations.
Astrology is the study of the movement of and relative positions of the planets through the Zodiac and how they are interpreted as having an effect on people. There are two basic systems of Astrology: Western/Tropical and Vedic. Both practice several different branches, including Natal, Horary, Electional, Mundane, Medical, Meteorological, and Agricultural.
Azimene, mostly in traditional (or ancient Astrology) is a way to describe a planet that is in a weak or lame position, that if it were to be ascending at birth, the native would be blind, lame, or otherwise physically afflicted.
Babylonia was an ancient civilization, with its capital city of Babylon being in the Euphrates valley. After 2250 BC, this was the center of world commerce, arts, and science. This is where the modern Zodiac was created, as well as the 12 Houses. The Babylonians were also the first to focus on an individual, rather than a forecast.
Beholding Signs are two signs that are equidistance from the Solstices. These pairs are, Gemini and Cancer, Taurus and Leo, Aries and Virgo, Libra and Pisces, Scorpio and Aquarius, Sagittarius and Capricorn. Ptolemy deemed them to be “of equal power,” but was only applied when two such signs were joined by a body in each mutually aspected.
Benefic Planets are Jupiter, the “Greater Fortune,” and Venus, the “Lesser Fortune.”
Besieged refers to when a benefic planet is situated between to malefics, and is therefore, unfortunately placed.
Bestial Signs refer to those which have by symbolized by animals – Aries, Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, the last half of Sagittarius, Capricorn, and Pisces.
Bicorporeal refers to double-bodied signs – Gemini, Sagittarisu, and Pisces. It was originally employed by Ptolemy, and was originally the only term he used to characterize the signs now designated as Mutable. Thus, he also classified Virgo as bicorporeal. Modernly, this is replaced by “Dual Signs”.
Birth Moment is generally accepted to be the moment of the first breath, after the ligation of the umbilical cord. This is the moment the infant ceases to receive blood, oxygen, and other nutrients from its mother. The child must condition its own blood to Earth’s magnetic field and take in its own oxygen and nutrients. The time is always reduced to Standard Time, and adjusted to Greenwich world-time to calculate the planets places, then readjusted to Local Mean Time at the birth place, to determine the Ascendant and Houses.
Cacodemon was once employed to refer to an evil spirit within the twelfth house, but is no longer in use.
Cadent is a term used to describe the Houses which fall away from the Angles – the Third, Sixth, Ninth, and Twelfth Houses. Cadent Planets are those which occupy cadent Houses, and whose influence is thereby weakened.
Cancer is the 4th Sign of the Zodiac.
Capricorn is the 10th Sign of the Zodiac.
Cardinal Signs are those which cusps (beginnings) coincide with the cardinal points of the compass: Aries, East; Cancer, North; Libra, West; Capricorn, South.
Casting the Horoscope is a term used by Astrologers to imply the calculations necessary to be made prior to the description of the Birth Moment, and therefore, the native.
Cazmi is when a planet is within 0º17’ of the Sun, and considered strengthened by the Union. However, when a Planet is within 8º30’ of the Sun, and therefore hidden from sign by its light, it is considered to be weakened or restricted in power – this is called Combust. Similar to Combustion, is when a Planet is within 17º of the Sun, but beyond the Combust distance, it is “under the Sun’s beams,” which is debilitating, but not as severe as Combustion.
Celestial Sphere is a term used to refer to the “imaginary” sphere that surrounds the Earth, and upon which all the heavenly bodies both rest and travel. This is used in both Astronomy and Astrology, to measure distances, relative positions, and movements of the celestial bodies.
Ceres is the first of the Asteroids to be discovered, named after a Roman Goddess of growing vegetation.
Character – the sublime strength of Astrology is in its ability to predict/describe character. Since destiny is subservient to character, no prediction should be made until the patterns of emotional stimulation and environment are understood. Character is the cumulative result of one’s collective experiences. Astrology can determine the nature of one’s reactions, while the reaction takes place only when called into play by some accidental encounter with a stimulus in the environment.
Chart, also referred to as Figure, is an astrological or Celestial Figure, variously called Geniture, Map, Scheme, Chart, Theme, Mirror of Heaven, Nativity or Horoscope, as cast, erected or drawn by modern astrologers, consists of a circle of the heavens, representing the 360° of the Earth's orbit, divided into twelve arcs - resembling a wheel of twelve spokes. This is then used to plot the Planets, Houses, and various other astrological attributes for the desired reading.
Circle is a geometric shape that has 360°. In Astrology, this can be used to reference the Zodiac, which is a belt of 360° with twelve 30° subsections.
Cold Planets refer to the Moon and Saturn.
Cold Signs refers to Taurus, Cancer, Virgo, Scorpio, Capricorn, and Pisces.
Conjunction is an Aspect of two planets, that are less than 7° apart (though the exact orb has been debated). Strictly speaking, a Conjunction is when two planets occupy the same place.
Constellation refers to the 90 subdivisions of the heavens, mostly named according to some of the asterisms they contain. Twelve of these groups lay along the ecliptic, and are thus known as the Zodiac Constellations.
Crooked Signs in traditional Astrology, refers to Taurus, Capricorn, and Pisces. If the Ascendant or Moon is in one of those signs, and Afflicted by the Malefic Planets, then the native may be crooked and imperfect.
Culmination is when a planet arrives at the South Meridian, or Midheaven, by progression, direction, or transit. It is when this planet is at the highest point in the Sky, completing its Ascending movement, before it begins to Descend.
A Cusp is an imaginary line separating a Sign from adjoining Signs, and a House from its adjoining Houses. Usually, the “Cusp” of a Sign or a House refers to the beginning of it. A planet is stronger when it is at a cusp, rather than in the last degrees of a House or Sign. Angular Cusps are therefore the strongest.
In ancient times, there was a small arc contiguous to the boundary line between adjacent Signs and Houses, wherein there was uncertainty to the planets location, and therefore ambiguity as to its influence. In modern times, this area is no longer in effect, as scientific advances allow us to calculate and see precise locations of the heavenly bodies.
Day – loosely speaking, a day is the period between sunrise and sunset, the period of daylight. In the Far East, it is the distance that can be traveled in 24 hours. In Astrological terms, a Diurnal (or Day) Chart is one cast for a birth moment in which the Sun was above the horizon, whereas a Nocturnal (or night) Chart is one cast for a moment when the Sun was below the horizon.
Day Triplicity, in traditional Astrology, maintained that during the Day some planets are stronger when positioned in certain elements. Ex, Saturn in Air, Sun in Fire, Mars in Water, Venus in Earth.
Debility refers to a planet disadvantageously placed by Sign and House position. Is often employed loosely as a synonym for Detriment.
The Decans, or Decanates, are three 10° subdivisions within the Zodiac Signs. Referred to in terms of First, Second, and Third Decans. They are interpreted based on a system of subrulership. The First Decan of a Sign is also subruled by the Ruler of that Sign. The second two decans are subruled by the other planetary rulers of the other Signs in the same Triplicity.
ex; Aries 1st decan is Mars, 2nd is Sun (rules Leo), and 3rd is Jupiter (rules Sagittarius)
Taurus 1st Decan is Mercury, 2nd is Mercury (rules Virgo), and 3rd is Saturn (rules Capricorn)
Declination is an Astronomical method of measuring distance North or South of the Celestial Equator. The maximum Declination of the Sun is 23° 28’, which occurs at the Solstices, when the Sun passes through the Tropics of Cancer and Capricorn.
Decumbiture is used in Horary Astrology for the moment when a person is taken ill, to judge the possible nature and duration of the illness.
A Degree both Astronomically and Astrologically refer to one 360th part of the circumference of a circle, specifically, the celestial sphere. A degree is subdivided into 60 equal parts, called minutes of arc, or simply minutes.
Descendant refers to the degree of the Zodiac that appeared on the Western Horizon at the time calculated (Birth time is used for Natal Charts) and is used as the Cusp of the Seventh House. This is often modernly loosely applies to the whole of the Seventh House, along with the specific degree on the horizon.
Descending refers to the motion of all the planets in the Western Hemisphere (or right side of the chart) that are moving from above the horizon, to the lowest point in the sky, by virtue of the Earth’s rotation.
Detriment applies to the placement of the planet in the opposite Sign from that which it is said to be the ruler.
Dignities and Debilities in Astrology are the conditions and placements of the planets, wherein their influences are strengthened (dignities) or weakened (debilities). When a planet is in a Sign it rules over (its Domicile), in a Sign which it is said to be exalted, or when in a planet that is the same Triplicity as its Ruler, it is considered to be Dignified. When a planet is in the Opposite Sign from it Ruler (in Detriment), in the Sign opposite to the Exaltation Sign (in Fall), or in the opposite Element, it is considered Debilitated. When it is in none if the above conditions, it is considered Peregrine, or neutral.
The Depositor in Astrology is the planet which is the Natural Ruler of the Sign or House. So, if an Arabic Part is in Aries in the 7th House, then the Depositor by Sign would be Mars and the Depositor by House would be Venus.
Diurnal Arc refers to refer to the path the Sun follows from Sunrise to Sunset. At the Equinoxes, the arc is 180°, which applies 12 hours of night and 12 hours of day. At higher latitudes on Earth, this arc becomes smaller. The Nocturnal Arc refers to however much of the 360° (or 24 hours of a day) are left after subtracting the Diurnal Arc.
Ex, if the Diurnal Arc is 180°, the Nocturnal is also 180°. If the Diurnal Arc is 100°, the Nocturnal Arc is 260°. If the Diurnal Arc is 210°, the Nocturnal Arc is 150°
Domicile is used to describe a planet that is placed in the Sign it rules.
Dry Signs are Aries, Taurus, Leo, Virgo, Sagittarius, and Capricorn.
The Ecliptic Astronomically is the Sun’s apparent path around the Earth.
Earth Signs are those of the Earth Triplicity: Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn.
The Ego in Astrology refers to the conscious feeling that “I am me.” In psychology, the Ego is a system of mental states, which is sometimes used synonymously with the mind.
Electional Astrology is a method used to choose a suitable time for commencing any reasonable project, endeavor, or event (such as a marriage, journey, law-suit, building operation, drawing up a will, buying a house, planting a garden, launching a ship, or moving into a new home).
The Elements in Astrology are used to describe the four fundamental natures, symbolized as Fire, Earth, Air, and Water.
The Ephemeris in an almanac listing the ephemeral or rapidly changing position which each of the solar system bodies will occupy on each day of the year: their Longitude, Latitude, Declination, and similar astronomical phenomena. The astronomer's Ephemeris lists these positions in heliocentric terms; that of the astrologer, in geocentric terms.
The Equinox is a point in the Earth’s annual orbit around the Sun, at which point the length of day and night are equal globally. This occurs at the Vernal Equinox, on March 20thth (the beginning of Aries), and the Autumnal Equinox on September 21st (the beginning of Libra).
Eros is an Asteroid discovered in 1898, named after the Greek God of Love, a divinity of fertility.
Esoteric refers to secret knowledge not accessible to the uninitiated. When such information is published, it becomes exoteric, meaning that the facts are now property to the rest of humanity.
Exaltation is when a Planet is in a Sign of similar nature to the one it Rules over. This planet will have strength and energy, and a positive influence.
Face, as employed by Ptolemy, is when a planet in a House that is distant counter-clockwise from the Moon, or clockwise from the Sun by the same number of Houses as the Sign, is in its Face. This means that Mercury is in its Face when in a House preceding that of the Moon, or following that of the Sun; Venus, when two Houses preceding or following; Mars, three Houses; Jupiter, four Houses; or Saturn, five Houses - duplicating in Houses from the actual Sun and Moon positions, the scheme of Sign-Rulership from Cancer and Leo, around to Capricorn and Aquarius. There is so much contradictory testimony with reference to this term that the entire subject has been ignored by many modern authorities.
Fall is when a planet is in the Opposite Sign as the Exaltation Sign, this sign causes the planets energy to lose strength and/or energy.
Feminine Signs are those of the Feminine Duality: Taurus, Cancer, Virgo, Scorpio, Capricorn, and Pisces.
A Figure is an astrological or Celestial Figure, variously called Geniture, Map, Scheme, Chart, Theme, Mirror of Heaven, Nativity or Horoscope, as cast, erected or drawn by modern astrologers, consists of a circle of the heavens, representing the 360° of the Earth's orbit, divided into twelve arcs - resembling a wheel of twelve spokes. This is then used to plot the Planets, Houses, and various other astrological attributes for the desired reading.
Fire Signs are those of the Fire Triplicity: Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius.
Fixed Signs are those of the Fixed Modality: Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, and Aquarius.
Ptolemy believed that Friendly Planets are ones that which have rulership, exaltation or triplicity in each other's Sign. Other authorities class them as follows:
• Sun - unfriendly only to Saturn.
• Moon - unfriendly only to Mars and Saturn.
• Venus - unfriendly only to Saturn.
• Mars - friendly with Venus only.
• Jupiter - unfriendly only to Mars.
• Saturn - friendly only to the Sun, Mercury and Jupiter.
Fruitful Signs in traditional Horary Astrology are Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces. If the Ascendant, Moon, or Lord of the Ascendant is strongly placed in one of those Signs, there are indications of children.
Gemini is the 3rd Sign of the Zodiac.
Grand Cross is an aspect involved 3 planets that in Square or Opposition to one another.
Grand Trine is an aspect pattern involving 3 planets that Trine one another.
A Hemisphere is a half-circle, either East or West of the meridian, or North or South of the Equator. In Astrology, this refers to the different halves of the Chart.
Horary Astrology is the art of interpreting the relationship between cosmic phenomena resulting from the ordered motions of the celestial bodies, and a thought, situation or event. It deals successfully only with concrete, well-defined queries, and its validity is subject to question when the particular problem to be analyzed is hazy in the mind of the querent, or ill-defined in its presentation to the astrologer. Since the Horary Figure centers around the person of the querent and his consciousness at the time of the query, a clear concept of the problem for which a solution is sought is essential if the heavens are faithfully to reflect the question and portray the outcome.
The Horizon in Astrology is the circle around the Earth that separates the visible and invisible hemispheres.
Horoscope is, strictly speaking, the Ascendant, since it is based on the “hour.” It is generally employed to refer to the Chart for a given date and hour, utilized by Astrologers for judgment of the Nativity, and for predictions in Mundane and Horary Astrology. In modern colloquial English, this is seen as a synonym for the Mundane predictions, Astrology, and Zodiac, but is not so.
Hot Signs refers to Aries, Gemini, Leo, Libra, Sagittarius, and Aquarius.
The Houses are 12 divisions of the chart, either equal in terms of space or time. Due to the inclination of the polar axis in its relationship to the Sun, the number of degrees which pass over the horizon in 2 hours varies with the time of year and the latitude of the place where the birth occurs. While the Midheaven-point moves reasonably steady from day to day throughout the year, the rising and setting-points vary, lengthening into the "long winter evenings" and shortening into the so-called "Daylight Saving" period of long days and short summer nights.
The Hyleg is a calculated point in a Natal Chart (usually the Sun, Moon, Ascendant, or Part of Fortune) that is used in calculating longevity.
The Imum Coeli is the cusp of the Fourth House, where the ecliptic meets the Meridian in the North, or where Sun is at midnight. This is sometimes loosely employed to refer to the whole Fourth House.
Inclination of Axis refers to the arc between a celestial bodies equators, and the plane of their orbit. The Earth has an Arc of 23½°. In addition, Mercury 72°, Venus 60°, the Mars 25°, Jupiter 3°, Saturn 26°, Uranus 102°, Neptune 155°, Pluto is unknown.
Inconjunct, also called Quincunx, is an Aspect of 150 degrees.
Leo is the 5th Sign of the Zodiac.
The Luminaries in Astrology is the subsection of the Planets that refers to the Sun and Moon.
Malefic Planets are those who exert a harmful influence: Mars and Saturn.
Medical Astrology is the branch of Astrology which looks at planetary causes of diseases.
The Medium Coeli, most often called the Midheaven in modern Astrology, is the cusp of the Tenth House. This is where the ecliptic meets the Meridian in the South, where Sun culminates at noon. This is sometimes loosely employed to refer to the whole Tenth House.
The Meridian Astronomically is a circle of Longitude that passes from the Southern point of the Horizon, through the Zenith, to the North Point of the Horizon. It coincides with Earth’s geographical longitude.
Meridian Altitude is an astronomical navigation method of calculating an observer's latitude. The simplest calculation of astronomical navigation and is when an observer determines his latitude by measuring the altitude of a heavenly object at the time of its meridian passage. Meridian passage is when the object passes the observer's meridian, i.e. passes through south or north. This is usually done with the sun for a noon latitude but can be done with any heavenly object. Noon is when the sun passes through the meridian.
Midpoints in Astrology refer to a calculated degree equidistant from two other planets. There is some debate as to their importance, and the width of orbs for aspects to these points.
Minutes, Astronomically and Astrologically refer to one sixtieth of a degree in an arc, marked 1’.
Mundane Astrology is a system of interpreting Astrology in terms of world trends, the destinies of nations and large groups of individuals, based on an analysis of the effects of Equinoxes, Solstices, New Moons, Eclipses, and planetary movements. It’s different from Natal Astrology, in the same manner than Psychology is different from Sociology; Natal Astrology studies the individual, Mundane Astrology studies the group. This is the tier of astrology that often predicts wide-reaching predictions, and is the most watered down and popularized, though ultimately criticized, by the media.
Mutable Signs are those of the Mutable Modality: Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, and Pisces.
Mute Signs, in traditional Astrology, are Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces. If one of them is on the Ascendant and Mercury is Afflicted, or if Mercury is aspected by a Malefic planet position in one of those signs, then the native is likely to develop a speech impediment.
Mutual Reception is when two planets are in each other’s domicile or exaltation.
Nadir is the lowest point below the Earth, or the opposite point to the Zenith. It is often mistakenly applied to the Imum Coeli, which is the cusp of the 4th House, or the Northern most point on the Meridian.
Natal Astrology, traditionally called Genethlical Astrology, is the department of Astrology that deals with nativities, and the influence of planets and Signs upon the life and character of an individual.
Native in Astrology refers to the subject of a Natal Chart.
Nativity in Astrology is used as a synonym for Birth Moment.
The Nodes of the Moon, traditionally called Caput Draconis or the Dragon’s head, and Cauda Draconis or the Dragon’s Tail, they’re modernly called the North and South Nodes. These are the points at which the Moon’s Orbit around the Earth intersects the ecliptic.
The Opposition is an Aspect wherein two bodies lay 180° apart.
Oriental and Occidental
Occident is from a Latin term for the West, meaning falling, setting, or perishing (as in sunset). Orient is from the Latin term for the East, meaning rising or emerging (as in sunrise).
If a planet is described as 'oriental of the Sun' it means that it precedes the Sun in diurnal motion, and appears in the east in the morning, rising before the Sun. Similarly, 'occidental of the Sun' means that it follows the sun by diurnal motion, and comes into view after sunset.
If a planet is described as 'oriental in the figure', it means that it is located near the ascendant which is the eastern angle, whilst 'occidental in the figure', means that it is located near the descendant which is the western angle.
Occidental hemisphere is the western/setting hemisphere, incorporating the 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th, and 9th houses. Oriental hemisphere - the eastern/rising hemisphere, incorporating the 4th, 3rd, 2nd, 1st, 12th, and 11th houses.
Occidental quarter - the quadrant of the chart that falls beneath the western horizon, incorporating the 4th, 5th and 6th houses. Also known as the phlegmatic quarter. Oriental quarter - the quadrant of the chart that rises from the eastern horizon, incorporating the 1st, 12th and 11th houses. Also known as the sanguine quarter.
An Orb in Astrology is space within which an aspect is judged to be effect. It is similar in function to the mathematical “plus or minus.” ± If an Aspect has an Orb of 5°, then at 5° less than the designated degree, or 5° more than the designated degree, it is still considered to be affective.
A Partile Aspect is one which is exact, within 1º of perfection.
Peregrine is said of a planet when it is not dignified nor debilitated.
Perihelion is a point in an orbit where the celestial object is closest to the Sun.
Pisces is the 12th Sign of the Zodiac.
Polarity in Astrology refers to two zodiac Signs that rest on opposite sides of the Zodiac. More commonly called “Opposite Signs,” also known as “Complimentary Signs.” These Signs are very similar in values, goals, objectives, etc, but have very different ways of approaching them.
Predictive Astrology is the branch that deals with forecasting future influences.
Quadrants in Astrology are four quarters of a Chart, measured from the Cusps of the Four Angular Houses.
• Quadrant 1 – Houses One, Two, and Three - Personal Identity
• Quadrant 2 – Houses Four, Five, and Six - Personal Expression
• Quadrant 3 – Houses Seven, Eight, and Nine - Social Identity
• Quadrant 4 – Houses Ten, Eleven, and Twelve - Personal Identity
The Quadriplicities in Astrology are groups of Four Signs of the same Modality – either Cardinal, Fixed, or Mutable.
The Quincunx, or Inconjunction, is an Aspect of 150°.
The Quadrupedal Signs in Traditional Astrology are the four-footed Signs: Aries, Taurus, Leo, Sagittarius and Capricorn, all of which represent quadrupeds. Those born when these ascend were said by the ancient astrologers to have the qualities of such animals: as bold as the lion, or as lustful as the goat.
Parellel in Astrology refers to when two bodies are at a point where they are equidistant from, and on opposite sides of, the Meridian or Horizon.
Retrograde is a term in Astronomy and Astrology that refers to the apparent backward motion of a celestial body.
Rising Sign is a term used to refer to the Sign the Ascendant is in.
Ruler is a term originally designed to describe a schematic arrangement of the Signs, wherein certain planets have a special potency in a certain sign or signs. This term has become over-used and over-worked, though there are some distinctions. The use of "ruler" in connection with the Houses, is confusing, and the rule generally recommended is: "Lord of a House; Ruler of a Sign." As indicating anatomical and geographical areas it is more precise to say "has dominion over" than to say "ruled by."
Sagittarius is the 9th Sign of the Zodiac.
Scorpio is the 8th Sign of the Zodiac.
Sextile is an Aspect between two planets of 60°.
Significators in Astrology are simply something chosen to signify something else; a person or the matter at hand.
Square is an Apect between two planets of 90°.
Stellium is when four celestial bodies are located in one House.
Succedent is a term used to describe the Houses which follow the Angular House – the Second, Fifth, Eight, and Eleventh Houses. Succedent Planets are those which occupy Succedent Houses.
Strength of a Planet refers to its Dignity (or debilitation) and its likeliness to have a strong or positive effect on the individual.
A T-Cross is an Aspect Pattern involving two planets in Opposition, each Squared by a Third planet.
Trine is an Aspect between two planets of 120°.
Taurus is the 2nd Sign of the Zodiac.
Virgo is the 6th Sign of the Zodiac.
Water Signs are those of the Water Triplicity: Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces.
Wet Signs are Gemini, Cancer, Libra, Scorpio, Aquarius, and Pisces
Zenith, mathematically, is the point directly overhead through which passes the Meridian circle. The closer a planet is to the Zenith, the more powerful its influence. The term is often loosely applied to the Cusp of the Tenth House, which is only the point where the ecliptic and meridian circle meet in the South.
Zodiac is a band in the celestial sphere that includes the 12 constellations (Aries, Taurus, Gemini, etc) signs through which the sun and planets appear to travel. This is why we refer to the 12 personality types as the “Zodiac Signs” as they are the 12 signs/constellations within the zodiac belt.
Zodiac Sign refers to one of the twelve 30° divisions of the Zodiac.