Sagittarius (astrology)
Sagittarius (♐) is the ninth astrological sign in the Zodiac, which spans the zodiac between the 240th and 269th degree of celestial longitude. According to the tropical zodiac of western astrology, the Sun transits this area of the zodiac between November 22 and December 21 each year (sometimes the dates vary slightly).
Key characteristics and definitions
Sagittarius is seasonally associated with the transition from autumnal moisture to mid-winter dryness. Because its period indicates a change of season, it is known as a "mutable sign" [1]:88 describing an instinct toward change and an easy ability to modify or adapt to the demands of the environment.
The sign is governed by Jupiter, a planet which is symbolically associated with temperate qualities which loosen, relax and expand. Sagittarius is also linked with the "element of fire," which represents outgoing, action-oriented energy that seeks spontaneous expression.[2]:46 As the mutable fire sign, governed by an expansive planet, the symbolic focus of the sign is connected to the principle of exploration and evolution. Correspondingly, Sagittarians are reputed to be drawn toward travel and philosophy, and to enjoy social contacts, meeting new people and exploring other cultures. They are said to be highly intelligent, broad-visioned, tolerant in their views, mainly concerned with the "big picture" but with little patience for the details.[2]:71
Joanna Watters (2003) defined a key phrase for this sign as "I seek" and describes Sagittarius as "the sign of the higher mind ... the pursuit of wisdom and search for meaning are just as important as new places and experiences".[3]:24 Like all the fire signs, Sagittarius can be idealistic in vision but tactless in expression. They are known for their bluntness and are often unaware of their ability to cause anguish in others.[3]:24
- Sagittarius keywords: philosophical, optimism, expansion, farseeing, anticipation, direct, idealism, pride, restlessness, freedom-loving.
Definitions and Associations
| Glyph meaning: (♐) |
The bow and arrow of the Archer.[3]:13 |
| Quality |
Positive: outwardly expressive, extrovert.[4] |
| Element (triplicity)[5] |
Fire: energy, warmth, vision, intuition.[3] |
| Mode (quadruplicity)[5] |
Mutable: the element in its most fluid form - associated with change and the dissemination of energy.[3]:15 |
| Body part |
Thighs.[1]:94 |
| Direction |
East by south [1]:365 |
| Traditional definitions |
Bestial - the signs symbolised by four-footed animals (also called quadrupedian 'four-footed'). These can lack in social graces and sometimes indicate coarseness and a poor appreciation for "niceties" and polite manners. They can also be a little inarticulate, caring more about making their point, than the elegance of the style in which it is made. [6]
Bi-corporeal (double-bodied) - all the mutable signs are double-bodied - Gemini: two twins; Virgo: maiden and bird; Sagittarius: man and horse; Pisces: two fishes. They represent the months that join the seasons and signify a dualistic nature that is easily adaptable and can be one thing or another. For this reason the mutable signs are referred to as "common" signs in traditional terminology.[6]
Feral - the sign of Leo and the last part of Sagittarius (the animalistic part) is traditionally defined as "feral," which literally means wild, uncultivated, savage or brutal. This relates to the cruel and insensitive streak associated with these signs when they disassociate their actions from their feelings and empathetic consideration of others. It is also one of the reasons why these signs may be taken to signify uncultivated territory and places where wild animals roam.[6]
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Compatibilities
Generally, the qualities of Sagittarius are considered to be compatible with these signs: Aries and Leo, and to a lesser extent with these signs: Gemini, Libra and Aquarius. 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 Venus and Mars.[7]
Sidereal zodiac
The dates that the Sun traverses the sign of Sagittarius according to the Sidereal system are (generally) between 15 of December and 14 January each year.
References
- ^ a b c William Lilly, (1647) Christian Astrology. Republished as facsimile, London: Regulus, 1985. ISBN 0948472014.
- ^ a b Kevin Burk, Astrology: understanding the birth chart: a comprehensive guide to classical interpretation. Llewellyn Worldwide, 2001. ISBN 9781567180886.
- ^ a b c d e 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 that 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 c Deborah Houlding, ‘Sagittarius the Archer'. The Mountain Astrologer, issue #131, February 2007. 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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