Key Concepts in Astrology
This article titled ‘Key Concepts in Astrology’ formed part of module 1 in a series of discourses on learning Astrology by some members of the Lifewave Light and Sound Meditation Group. It was written around the mid 1980s. I have updated the formatting and images (Kurt Cobain Natal Chart), the content otherwise being identical.
1. PLANETS represent the WHAT of Astrology. What type of energy is manifesting itself through which heavenly body?
2. SIGNS represent the HOW of Astrology. How does the celestial energy of the planets manifest itself and how is this energy modified?
3. HOUSES represent the WHERE of Astrology. In which area of earthly existence does the energy indicated by the planet and sign manifest itself with the greatest intensity?
4. ASPECTS are the angles between the planets. These indicate whether the energies of the planets are flowing harmoniously or creating blockages and tensions, which may manifest as difficulties in relating to others or inner conflicts,
5. ELEMENTS show what type of consciousness and method of most immediate perception to which the individual is attuned.
By synthesising all these factors it is possible to build up a complete picture of an individual, of his strengths and weaknesses and his/her subconscious drives.
A Sample Chart of Kurt Cobain Showing
Distribution of Planets, Aspects, Elements and Modes
INTERPRETING A NATAL CHART
In this series of articles we will cover:
- The Planets
- The Signs
- The Houses
- The Aspects
and how they inter-relate to form the basis of birthchart interpretation.
The Planets
The first step is to learn the nature of each SIGN and the nature of each PLANET to enable you to see how the energy of each of the planets manifests in each of the signs. Planets are strongest in those signs in which they are in exaltation or rulership and weakest in those signs in which they are in detriment or fall. The planets can divided into 3 main groups:
(I) PERSONAL FACTORS
- The most obvious personality traits:
(II) DEEPER MOTIVATIONAL & COLLECTIVE FACTORS
- how one wants to participate in the world.
(III) PROFOUND SOURCES OF CHANGE AND THE MOST SUBTLE ENERGIES TO WHICH WE ARE ATTUNED.
- affecting conscious faculties through inspiration, flashes of insight and intuition.
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