Saturn in Astrology Introduction
This article discusses the role of Saturn in Astrology, in particular its rulership of Capricorn and Aquarius as well as its role in the development of the soul.
Time to transit the zodiac: 29 years
Time in Each Sign: approximately 2 and a 1/2 years.
Glyphs of Saturn
The alchemy sign for lead. It symbolises the soul (crescent) under the laws of matter. Here we have grounding matter above, weighing down the mind or spirit of a person. Saturn is therefore the lawgiver imposing rules and structures. The downward sickle can also indicate harvest and growth reaping the harvest of your hard work.
Mythology of Saturn
Saturn was named after the Roman God of agriculture and harvest and of Time. According to mythology, the God Saturn stole the position of king of the gods from his father Uranus. The throne was later stolen by Jupiter.
The Ray of Saturn in Astrology
Saturn represents the soul’s journey into matter in order to establish:
- Order out of chaos
- Beauty out of ugliness
- Peace out of contention
The world can be a chaotic, contentious and ugly place. The qualities that Saturn brings can help us make our time on earth easier by allowing us to transform these negative qualities into a more structured life, with aspects of beauty and hence giving us more peace in our daily living.
In early life a strong Saturn is responsible for the willpower to establish our individual identity and achieve our goals, sometimes regardless of the cost. This is to do with self-preservation:
- Financial security through accumulation of wealth and material belonging
- Emotional Security through the domination of others
- Mental security through the accumulation of knowledge.
As the individual matures, they base their actions not just around their own personal goals, but they also take on responsibility for the welfare of those around them and the world at large.
On the spiritual path this need for self-preservation is replaced by a selflessness toward a greater cause and responsibility to all life through brotherhood. From here we get the influence of Uranus, the octave ruler of Aquarius
A weak Saturn Ray can lead to irresponsibility (lack of planning for the future for example), indecisiveness, dependency on others, a lack of focus, being at the mercy of the emotions and many other distractions as well as problems with accepting authority and an inharmonious relationship with one’s father.
Rulership of Saturn in Astrology
Saturn rules both Capricorn (negative) and Aquarius (positive).
-
Saturn Ray in Capricorn
Capricorn Soul Lesson = service in action. Capricorn is Saturns Earth Sign, realistic and practical in the way it goes about things, although both Saturn and Capricorn have a pessimistic side.
In Capricorn the Saturn Ray manifests qualities such as: ambition, tenacity, and good management of time and resources, responsibility.
Actions are based on sound reasoning rather than ruled by the heart and natives like to plan for the future so they know where their life and finances are heading. This leads them to jobs where there is a good deal of responsibility. They work through good organisation and planning rather than intuition and inspiration. They are cautious and determined in their outlook.
They are often devoted and faithful to their family.
Relevant jobs = diplomats, civil servants, heads of business and governments, teachers
Associated House = 10th. Early in life the 10th House rules one of the parents, the one who has most power over the child’s outer life. Its shows the parents position in the world and thus the child’s place in society. Later the 10th house indicates the child’s subsequent career, ambitions and public attainment in the world.
-
Saturn Ray in Aquarius
Aquarius Soul Lesson = brotherhood.
Aquarius is Saturn’s Air sign and this produces increased strength and depth to the mind and the subsequent development of these ideas into practicality . The air signs teach the lesson of brotherhood:
Gemini (brothers, sisters, cousins)
Libra (partners, enemies)
Aquarius (friends, groups in a wider sense)
In Aquarius the Saturn Ray gives a dispassionate understanding of the needs and welfare of others. Natives are often found in organisations with some altruistic purpose. More advanced souls will align to Spiritual Groups and as these interests awaken they will align under the influence of Uranus, the higher octave ruler of this sign.
Relevant Jobs = Professor, Scientist, Social Worker, Fundraiser, Environmentalist
Associated House 11th. House of friendship and cooperation in groups. This commonly centres on those groups following an altruistic purpose.
Saturn in Exaltation & Fall
The Test of Saturn in Astrology
Esoterically Saturn is known as the planet to bring tests and challenges through limitations or fears, where we have a cross to bear.
It is about routine, hard work and discipline. It can relate to our own self respect, putting in the necessary time to work towards a goal.
Physically = physical disabilities, poverty, oppression
Emotionally & Mentally = fears, emotional imbalances, difficulty learning & relationships with others, critical outlook on others.
The test of Saturn is to bring the will of the self into alignment with the will of the divine. Through: patience, humility, perseverance as the two come in to alignment, we see the soul reflecting the will of God regardless of circumstance.
Saturn in the Horoscope
Saturn in our horoscope shows us which area of our life will be subject to delays, hindrances, limitations and tests. It wants us to be the best we can with what we have and develop qualities such as perseverance, self discipline, maturity and our own self respect.
Saturn in Astrology Keywords
Below are some of the keywords that describe Saturn in Astrology:
References