Libra (astrology)
Libra (♎) is the seventh astrological sign in the Zodiac, originating from the constellation of Libra. In astrology, Libra is considered a "masculine", positive (extrovert) sign. It is also considered an air sign and is one of four cardinal signs.[1] Libra is ruled by the planet Venus, which also rules Taurus.
Individuals born when the Sun was in this sign are considered Libra individuals. Under the tropical zodiac, the Sun enters Libra on the moment of northern autumnal equinox on September 23, leaving it on October 22.
Key characteristics and definitions
Definitions and Associations
| Glyph meaning: (♎) |
The scales; symbolizes the principle of symmetry and balance.[2]:13 |
| Quality |
Positive: outwardly expressive, extrovert.[3] |
| Element (triplicity)[4] |
Air: thought, intellect, ideas, interaction.[2]:14 |
| Mode (quadruplicity)[4] |
Cardinal (moveable): the element in its most concentrated or active form - associated with push, energy, and enterprise.[2]:15 |
| Body parts |
Lower back, kidneys, loins.[5] :96 |
| Direction |
West[5]:365 |
| Traditional definitions |
Humane sign - the humane signs are usually represented by human figures, but Libra is included on the assumption that the scales are held by a human hand. These are renowned for social graces and intellectual skills, and sometimes referred to as 'manly' or 'courteous' signs.[6] |
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Mythology
The symbol for Libra is the Scales. In Roman mythology, Libra is considered to depict the scales held by Astraea (identified as Virgo), the goddess of justice. Libra is also considered the goddess of balance and truth. She also corresponds with Egyptian mythology as Ma'at, the goddess of the scales or balance.
Generally, the qualities of Libra are considered to be compatible with those of the other air signs: Gemini and Aquarius, and to a lesser extent with the fire signs: Aries, Leo and Sagittarius. However, compatibility based on sun-sign alone is considered to be only a very general guideline. The branch of astrology dealing with interpersonal relationships is called Synastry. In this, astrologers analyse the horoscopes of both parties being considered with particular reference to the positions of the Sun and Moon and Mars and Venus.[7]
References
- ^ Jeff Mayo, Teach Yourself Astrology, pp 38-41, Hodder and Stoughton, London, 1979
- ^ a b c Joanna Watters, Astrology for today. London: Carroll & Brown, 2003. ISBN 1903258693.
- ^ Sasha Fenton, Astrology for Living, p.12. Readers Digest, 1999. ISBN 9780762102303.
- ^ a b There are three signs for each element which are related to each other across the Zodiac by the shape of the triangle; therefore these are traditionally known as 'triplicities'. Marcus Manilius, (c.10 AD.) Astronomica 2.270-295. Translated by G.P. Goold. Harvard University Press, 1977. ISBN 0674995163.
- ^ a b William Lilly, (1647) Christian Astrology. Republished by Regulus, London, 1985. ISBN 0948472014.
- ^ Deborah Houlding, ‘Libra the Scales'. The Mountain Astrologer; pp.29-35 issue #121, June 2005. ISSN 1079-1345.
- ^ Linda Goodman, Linda Goodman's Love Signs: A New Approach to the Human Heart. Harper Paperbacks; 1st edition (1991) ISBN 0060968966 p.8 "Even between two individuals whose Sun and Moon Signs harmonize, there are always some planets in their mutual nativities which clash causing periodic friction and tension."
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