If I wished to know what particular part of the Zodiac one is subject to in any particular year of life—that is to say, what part of the Zodiac is rising—I add 1 degree for every year to the Midheaven at birth and thus obtain a new Midheaven, under which, in the Tables of Houses, I find the Ascendant which rules the year. Thus in the case of one born on the 1st of May at 3.30 p.m. the 30th year comes under the Midheaven of Leo 2, which is 30 degrees further advanced than Cancer 2, and under Leo 2 in the 10th House I find the Ascendant to be in Libra 24.7, which is the Ascendant governing that year of life. The meaning and importance of these calculations will appear at a later stage of this exposition.
When a degree is on the Midheaven or the 10th House it is said to “culminate,” and when on the horizon Eastward it is said to “ascend.”
The Midheaven is often called the “M.C.” (Medium Coeli), and the opposite point is called the “I.C.” (Imaum Coeli). They are the points of the Ecliptic which cut through the meridian of a place at any given time.
In order that prognostications made from the horoscope of birth may be pointed as to time it is necessary to know the positions of the planets for several years in advance. Such calculations are easily effected by a knowledge of the periods of the planets—that is to say, the times in which they return to the same positions about the same time of the year. Thus Uranus returns to its place after a period of 84 years, Saturn does so after 59 years, Jupiter in 83 years, Mars in 79 years, in all cases almost to the day. Mercury also returns in 79 years. But as very few people possess records of the planets’ places for these long periods, the following table of the longitudes of the planets for the next 12 years has been prepared. The positions are given for the 1st of each month, and the longitudes held by the planets are given in even degrees.
These tables are very useful in tracing the transits that occur in connection with the horoscope for the year. Thus we have found that by adding the number of degrees corresponding to the age of a person to the Midheaven at birth, we obtain the Progressed Midheaven,and in the Tables of Houses we may also find the corresponding Progressed Ascendant. By adding the same number of degrees to the place of the Sun at birth we obtain also the Progressed position of the Sun.
Now a transit of one of the major planets over any of these points, namely, the Midheaven or Ascendant at birth, the Sun or Moon at birth, the Midheaven, Ascendant, and Sun in the progress, will produce marked effects on the fortunes and health of the Subject, corresponding to the nature of the planet which makes the transit.
Thus we have seen that the Midheaven at the birth on the 1st of May, 1890, at 3.30 p.m., was Cancer 2 degrees, and the Ascendant Libra 2. Referring to the Tables, we find that in 1905 Saturn will form the opposition of the Midheaven in Capricornus 2 in February, July, and November, so that these will be periods of reversal, sudden and unexpected complications and changes. Also the Sun at birth being in Taurus 11 receives the transit of Jupiter in April, 1905, so that this month will be productive of some amelioration of evils, or direct benefits.
When two or more planets concur in a transit of any of the Significators the results are so much the more forcible and effective.
The following Table of the Eclipses that will take place during the next twelve years will be found of considerable use in forecasting the effects which will follow, not only on the individual, but also on nations and countries. Thus should any of the Eclipses fall on the place of a Significator in a horoscope, it will have the most sinister effect upon the life and fortunes. Certain countries are ruled by certain signs, a matter which has been determined from observation ever since the days of Claudius PtolemyA.D.130, and Eclipses falling therein have the effect of disturbing the government of those countries, producing effects of the worst kind. (SeeSect. IV., chap. 6).
In illustration of the effects of Eclipses in the horoscope of birth, we may refer to the horoscope of His Majesty King Edward VII., wherein we find the sun situated in the 17th degree of the sign Scorpio, which rules the excretory system. In May, 1902, there was an Eclipse of the Sun in opposition to this position, and within five weeks of the Eclipse the King was struck down with appendicitis on the eve of the Coronation Ceremony. This was foretold in many of the journals devoted to the exposition of Astrology, and in Moore’s Almanac for the month of June, 1902, the hieroglyphic clearly pointed to the danger that beset the august Sovereign. Indeed, I was able to say with perfect assurance that the Coronation would not take place on the date appointed, and gave the exact date at which the King would be struck down with what I conceived to be a mortal illness. But fortunately at that time the Moon was conjoined to Jupiter in the progress and this saved the life. The Moon was then setting in the horoscope of birth, according to the measure of time already given, namely,one degree of Right Ascension for one year of life, and Saturn was on the Midheaven.
The Eclipse of June 6, 1853, was in the Midheaven at Cumana on the Spanish Main and in five weeks there followed a terrible earthquake which killed 4,000 people and destroyed all the property. In May, 1901, there was an Eclipse on the 8th of May which fell in the meridian of St. Pierre, Martinique, and the same day there was a fearful devastation of the place by the eruption of Mont Pelée.
Instances might be multiplied to show that the effects of Eclipses are of the most striking and effective nature.
It is impossible to categorically state the effects which are due to the positions of the planets in the several Houses, because very much depends upon the signs they are in and the aspects they have from other planets.
The means of judging the effects is very simple, when once the natures of the planets and the dominion of the several Houses have been thoroughly digested. Thus, it is first necessary to see in what House a planet is situated. Then consider the nature of the planet in the following concrete manner:
Neptune means chaos, confusion, deception.Uranus, eccentricity, originality, estrangement.Saturn, privation, hindrance, denial.Jupiter, affluence, fruitfulness, increase.Sun, dignities, honours.Mars, excess, impulse, quarrels.Venus, peace, happiness, agreementMercury, commerce, versatility, adaptability.Moon, changes, publicity.
Now look to the things that are governed by the House in which any particular planet is situated at the moment of birth (Sect. I., chap. iii.).
Suppose Saturn to be found in the 11th House. Saturn is “privation” and the 11th House is the domain of “Friends.” Hence a paucity of friends, or such as there may be are evil or unfortunate to the subject. Jupiter in the 2nd House, in the same manner, would signify “increase” of “money and possessions.” Mars in the 7th would indicate “quarrels” with “partners”; and so on. Each planet reflects its own nature upon the affairs governed by the House in which it is found at the moment of birth.
It will not infrequently happen, however, that there are more than one planet in the same House. Suppose two planets to occupy the same House. In such case one may be good (Jupiter), and the other evil (Mars). It is then necessary to take first that which first comes to the horizon or Midheaven, that is to say, the one which is in the earlier part of the House, and next that which follows. Thus Saturn followed by Jupiter in the 11th House, would signify misfortune by means of advisers and friends, followed at a later period in the life by some great good through the same source. The degrees which separate the planets will indicate the years which elapse between these changes of fortune. Similarly if there be more than two planets in the same House; in such cases you may safely predict many changes in that department of life which the House is said to rule.
But the fact of a planet being in a House is not of itself sufficient evidence from which to make a judgment. The aspects which that planet has must also be considered, for in this matter Saturn when throwing a good aspect to any of the Significators—the Sun, Moon, Ascendant or Midheaven, and well aspected by other planets, is to be preferred to Jupiter when the latter is badly placed and aspected; for Jupiter has his own ill effects, and Saturn has his good influences. Jupiter is only a benefic when acting by conjunction or good aspect with another planet, and Saturn is only a malefic when acting by conjunction or evil aspect.
These things being duly considered, it is possible to arrive, with even brief experience, at the results that are signified by the planets in the several Houses.
The Sun is the chief significator of the constitution, and the aspects he holds to the other planets are to be considered. Thus if he be found in good aspect, or at least not in evil aspect, to the other planets, the constitution may be judged as sound.
When, however, the Sun is afflicted by some planets and assisted by others, there will be only a moderate constitution, and judgment has to be made as to which influence predominates, the good or evil. When the afflicting planets are angular—that is to say, in the 1st, 4th, 7th, or 10th Houses—the congenital or hereditary tendency to organic disease is by that circumstance so much the stronger. But when the assisting planets are angular, the predisposition to disease is considerably mitigated, and in most cases entirely overcome.
The predisposition of the body to affections of a constitutional nature is to be judged from the prevalence of evil aspects to the Sun, and the parts of the body liable to be affected are judged from the Signs which are occupied by the afflicting bodies.
The various affections due to the several planets have already been cited (Sect. I., chap. i.). The Signs are grouped for purposes of pathological study as follows:—
The Movable Signs—Aries, Cancer, Libra, and Capricornus—have relation to the head, stomach, skin, kidneys, liver, and spine.
The Fixed Signs—Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, and Aquarius—are related to the throat, heart, blood, and excretory system.
The Common Signs—Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, and Pisces—are related to the lungs, bowels, and nervous system.
It will also be advisable to readSect. I., chap. ii., in order to determine the special points liable to affections, the nature of the affection being judged solely by the planet which casts the malefic aspect to the Sun.
When the Sun is found to be afflicted by several planets, and at the same time there is no assistance from the good aspects or conjunctions of other bodies, then the constitution is deemed faulty and liable to early disruption. But when there are several planets afflicting and at the same time some benefic influences from others, it is probable that there will be prolonged disease and physical weakness, though life will continue.
Death in infancy occurs when the malefic planets are immediately rising or culminating at the birth in evil aspect to the luminary which at the time may be above the horizon. Also when there are malefic planets immediately setting or passing the nadir, in evil aspect to the luminary below the horizon. But when there are mitigating influences from the good aspects of the benefic planets, or the luminaries, the malefic planets will not induce death, but there will be great difficulty in rearing.
The aspects of the moon are the chief consideration in the matter of sickness. If the Moon be found to be afflicted by the evil aspects of several planets, and no assistance be given by the good aspects of others, then the health will be precarious and frequent spells of illness will result. The Moon being well aspected and not in any way afflicted, shows that the health will be well established, and that there will be immunity from sickness of all sorts.
The considerations necessary to be made in this matter are similar to those which have been cited in regard to the Sun and the constitution, except that we substitute the Moon for the Sun. For, whereas the Sun governs the vital power in man, the Moon governs the functional powers, and whereas the Sun denotes those affections which are congenital or hereditary, the Moon denotes such as are brought about by causes after birth. Similarly, the Sun denotes affections which are incidental to the body, while the Moon denotes such as are accidental thereto.
These points being borne in mind, they may be memorised at sight:—
But it should be observed that the constitution may be strong and the health may be at the same time very bad, or, on the other hand, the health may be good and the constitution may be weak. In the first case, there would be a long life of considerable suffering from ill-health; and in the second case, there would be little or no ill-health for some considerable time, but the constitution would give way and the vital powers become depleted by the first serious illness that occurred.
Only when the Sun and Moon are both unafflicted by evil aspects or conjunctions, the health and constitution are both good, and there is every indication of a robust and vigorous life reaching to a ripe old age.
When the Sun and Moon are both heavily afflicted, and there is no assistance given by good aspects, there is every probability of death in infancy, or before reaching maturity.
For reasons which are allied to the connection existing between the constitution and the health, the good aspect of the Moon to the Sun at birth is an excellent augury, for it indicates co-ordination between the organic and functional. Where this co-ordination exists there is always considerable power of recuperation, so that illness is easily overcome and the balance of power restored in the system.
Malefic planets rising and afflicting either the Sun or Moon indicate prolonged ill-health, and most frequently some permanent hurt to the body.
When predisposition to illness is shown in the horoscope, the particular affection can be determined by the Sign which the afflicting planets hold. Thus if Saturn afflict the Moon from Aries, you will judge some hurts and obstructions in the head, chills and colds, influenza, coryza, &c. Similarly Mars in Leo would indicate functional defects of the heart due to accelerated action and overstrain, such as result from fevers.
A good aspect of the planets Jupiter and Venus is of material help in counteracting the influence of malefic aspects or evil positions.
Thus it will be seen that the health may be judged entirely apart from the constitution, the planets which are in aspect to the Moon being of first consideration, and next those which may be rising at the time of birth.
Ptolemy says: “Mercury is the ruler of the rational soul, the Moon of the animal soul.” By this he would mean, no doubt, that Mercury has relation to the faculty of the mind, while the Moon is related to brain function. There are certain attributes of the mind which are distinctive of the human being, and certain other qualities which are common to man and the lower animals. These latter are under the dominion of the Moon, while Mercury has chief signification of the rational faculties.
The position and aspects of the Moon and Mercury are therefore to be considered in making judgment of the mental endowments and disposition of the subject.
Planets that are in conjunction or aspect to either the Moon or Mercury will impress their nature strongly on the character and disposition. The natures of the planets have already been recited (Sect. I., chap. i.), and it is therefore only necessary to consider further, in this connection, the nature of the aspect that is thrown to the Mental Significators by the other bodies. Thus the Sun being in trine to the Moon will give a proper degreeof independence and dignity, while the square aspect or opposition of the Sun would indicate an excess of pride, harmful to the subject in his ordinary relationships. In the same manner, the good aspect of Jupiter would show benevolence and regulated philanthropy, while the opposition or other evil aspect of the same body would indicate extravagance and ostentatious display of charity.
The good and bad aspects of the planets may be summed up in a few lines as follows:—
The general trend of the disposition and habit of mind is judged by the position of the majority of the planets, according to the “Constitution” of the Signs they occupy. Thus, the majority of the planets being in—
Cardinal or Movable Signs indicates executive ability, business aptitude, pioneer spirit, ambition, capability to cut out a line in life for oneself, and to make headway against difficulties. Such persons are usually the foremost in their particular sphere of life, and are always found in the most progressive movements, reforms, &c.
Fixed Signs—Stability, patience, endurance, method, caution, and diplomacy. Such persons are apt tobecome the originators of schools of thought, policies, and schemes. They have fixity of purpose, determination, independence, and pivotal stability. They sit still and the world revolves around them.
Flexed or Common Signs—Versatility, flexibility, suavity, adaptability, and lack of originality. Such people usually have too many irons in the fire, and take in hand more than they can bring to satisfactory conclusion. This is due to their versatility. They have a superficial knowledge of many things, but lack the persistence to bring that knowledge to practical effect. At the same time their adaptability is the occasion of many successes in life, and their agreeableness, sympathy, and suavity create many friends for them.
In the Wheel of Life the cardinal signs denote the rim or tyre which is ever on the move, having the greatest acceleration. The Common Signs represent the spokes of the wheel, uniting the tyre to the nave, and in that sense representing the power of adaptability. The Fixed Signs represent the nave, which remains quiescent and still, being useful by that pivotal stability and apparent non-entity.
Thus, while the Sign-groupings of the planets are useful in giving the keynote of the nature and disposition, the particular faculties and characteristics are to be judged only from the aspects of the planets to the Moon and Mercury. Further, it will be noted that those planets which occupy the 3rd and 9th Houses, and those also which are just rising at the moment of birth, will strongly impress themselves on the nature, apart from any aspects they may hold to the Mental Rulers. This is on account of the natural relationship of those Houses to the mind and its means of expression.
Due attention must be paid to the position and aspects of those planets which are in aspect to the Mental Rulers, for if they be badly placed, in uncongenial signs, and themselves badly aspected by other planets, they will not act with the same directness and force as they otherwise would do.
It is of course admitted, in all astrological inquiries, that the effects of heredity, training and association count for something. A man who is generated from a vitiated parentage, badly nourished and imperfectly trained, cannot be expected, even with the best aspects, to manifest the highest faculties in their fullest or most perfect expressions. I have not the slightest doubt that many a clodpole was born under similar aspects to those which obtained at the birth of Shakespeare, Raphael, Newton, or Cæsar. I am not dismayed.Non gli astri muovono solamente per Roma!Who shall tell the tale of the world’s starved, neglected, and submerged genius? We are doing the right thing, at all events, in keeping the school-door wide open.
But to continue. The inspirational and ardent temperament is indicated by the majority of planets being in Fiery signs. The mental or intellectual temperament is shown by the majority in Aerial signs. The psychic or emotional temperament by the majority in Watery signs, and the practical or sordid temperament by the majority being in Earthy signs.
The rising sign at birth often impresses itself strongly on the mind of the Subject, and its characteristics are those which belong to the planet which governs it, and the “elemental” nature of the sign itself.
Thus you have the chief keys to the estimate ofcharacter in the individual, and when once the student is convinced by experience of the paramount reliability of this method of character-delineation, its uses will need no special pointing.
When either the Moon or Mercury is afflicted by the malefic planets, that is to say, when Neptune, Uranus, Saturn, or Mars are in conjunction or evil aspect with the mental Significators, and there be no relieving aspect from the benefic planets, Jupiter, Venus, or the Sun, then there is every predisposition to affections of the brain and nervous system. This is the more to be feared when the Moon or Mercury is afflicted in the flexed or common signs. This observation has been scientifically established by Mr. A. G. Trent, in his little work entitled “The Soul and the Stars,” to which the student is referred for a mass of statistical evidence.
Look to the planets which are in the 2nd House, and the aspects to them. If any planet be therein, and well aspected by others, the financial condition will be competent. If a benefic (Jupiter or Venus) be therein, and free from evil aspects, the same effect will accrue. But if the benefic in the 2nd should have good aspects from other planets, then there will be considerable wealth.
Any planet in the 2nd House, badly aspected, will produce difficulty in acquiring money, and if it be a malefic planet which occupies the 2nd House under these conditions, there will be times of stress and even poverty.
Continual hardship and poverty is shown by malefic planets in the 2nd House, in evil aspect to the Moon or Sun; while at the same time the planets in the 2nd House will be severely afflicted by others.
Saturn in the Midheaven afflicting the Sun or Moon is an indication of reversal of fortune, and such persons usually attain considerable position in the world and are then depleted of everything.
Jupiter or Venus in the 10th House, and near themeridian, are signs of good fortune and success in life, and the same results are due to their rising at birth.
In a general manner the aspects to the Moon in a male horoscope or the Sun in a female horoscope should be consulted, and the planets in good aspect thereto will show the means of good fortune, while those in evil aspect will indicate the sources of loss and hurt, according to the Houses the afflicting or assisting planets occupy. Thus Jupiter in good aspect to the Moon from the 11th House shows gain by friends, advisers, and co-operative measures, because the 11th House rules these relationships and Jupiter is the index of increase. Similarly, Uranus in the 7th House would show gain by the marriage partner if in good aspect to the Moon, or loss thereby if in evil aspect.
Mars in the 2nd House shows good earning capacity, because Mars is an ambitious and industrious planet (i.e., it produces such effects in the person), and the 2nd House is the domain of finance. But at the same time it shows extravagance and inability to save money, for Mars is impulsive and lacking thrift.
The 6th House well occupied shows faithful and advantageous servants and employés, such as will augment the fortunes and do good work for the Subject.
Neptune in the 2nd shows complications and an involved state of finance, and frequently it shows loss by fraud and imposition; though in good aspect to other planets it shows gain by such nefarious means. Uranus indicates many ups and downs of fortune, sudden and unexpected rises and falls.
Thus each planet is judged according to its nature and the aspect it throws to the Moon or Sun, while theplanets in the 2nd House are judged by their own natures and the aspects which they receive.
Inheritance is shown by a benefic planet in the 5th or 11th House in good aspect to Saturn; but indirect inheritance can be the result of Saturn in good aspect to Jupiter from any part of the figure.
Legacies are shown by good planets, or planets well aspected, in the 8th House; or by Jupiter in good aspect to Uranus from any part of the heavens.
Gain by marriage is shown by benefic planets in the 8th House, because the 8th is 2nd from the 7th, and the 7th House rules over the partner.
The potential of each horoscope is capable of being increased by due attention to the sources of gain, as shown by the position and aspects of the planets in various parts of the heavens; but chiefly by associating oneself with persons whose horoscopes are in harmony with one’s own. Thus it happens that individuals are lifted to position and affluence through their association with persons whose horoscopes are in sympathy with theirs. (SeeChap. XI.of this Section.)
The Sun and Moon being in good aspect to one another will prevent disaster, or will always provide a means of restoration of fortunes, because it is an index of general good fortune and continual support. Such persons as have this aspect in their horoscopes need never fear misfortune, for if they should fall into disasters in one place, they will always turn up in another with a complete adjustment of their position. But when the Sun and Moon are in evil aspect, and particularly when the malefic planets are in elevation in the heavens, continual misfortune dogs the footsteps, and though therebe spells of good fortune, they are brief and attended with troubles.
The benefic planets, Jupiter, Venus, and Sun, being well elevated in the heavens, that is to say, in the 10th or 11th Houses, it is a sign of preponderating good fortune. But when the malefics are in elevation the reverse results happen.
It is a law in Nature that the line of least resistance is that of greatest progress. The lightning flash does not come straight to earth, but zigzag by the line of least resistance. The great rivers do not come by a direct course to the ocean, but by many turns and backward reaches, because they follow the path of least resistance. When one comes to take account of the years of human life that are spent in the vain endeavour to achieve the impossible, the lessons of Nature are worth reciting. But what is impossible to one man is facile to another, and the greatest economy of effort is therefore to be secured by proper regard to suitability of occupation and direction of effort.
The principles of Astrology enable us to determine the line of action which at all times will be the most fruitful of results, and in the matter of money-making the matter is decided in the following manner: That planet which has a trine or sextile aspect of the Moon, and is at the same time elevated above the malefic planets, especially if it be itself assisted by the good aspects of other planets, receives first consideration. The House it is in will indicate the source of benefit, but the Sign it is in will show the means through which it will come. Thus ifUranus should be in the Midheaven, in trine aspect to the Moon, and itself receiving a good aspect from either the Sun, Jupiter, or Venus, it will indicate gain through governmental bodies, authorities, and persons of high rank. If Uranus should be in the sign Cancer, it would point to matters associated with the ocean, marine affairs, or those in which water is the element in chief employ; as in marine engineering, shipping, dock building, &c. But if Uranus had been in the 11th House, and in the sign Scorpio, then the source of gain would be by means of companies, syndicates, and associations of a collective nature, and the sign Scorpio would show it to be connected with naval defence (because Scorpio is a martial and watery sign) or the utilisation of waste materials, inflammable oils, &c., or by systems of drainage, which represent the excretory system of a town. By looking chiefly to the nature of the planet concerned, and that of the sign it occupies, a good artist will readily describe the particular line which is to be pursued.
But here, as in every other matter upon which judgment is made, attention must be paid to the character and disposition of the Subject, his aptitudes and qualifications, for it is obviously of little use recommending literature or the law to one whose sole capabilities lie in unintellectual directions. Natural aptitude, supplemented by the necessary training, are the first considerations, for without these success in any direction is but ill assured.
This is to be judged from the position of the majority of the planets, but principally from the Midheaven, the planets therein and its aspects. Thus, if you find the majority of the planets rising, that is to say, in the 10th, 11th, 12th, 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Houses the Subject will be a candidate for responsibility, ambitious of honours and position, and generally independent. If these or the majority of them be well aspected he will become a man of position, employing others; or, if a woman, will hold an important position in her sphere of life, and be esteemed in the social world.
If the degree on the Midheaven receives good aspects from the major planets, the position will be honourable and secure.
Venus or Jupiter, or the Sun well aspected, in the Midheaven, denotes a superior position, honours, and distinction. The same will result if these be rising.
When the majority of the planets are above the horizon, even though they be not rising, the Subject will have responsibilities thrust upon him, even though he should not desire them. If the majority of theseplanets be well aspected, he will acquit himself creditably and attain to honours.
It is always fortunate for the position that there should be planets exactly on the cusps of either the 2nd, 3rd, 6th, 8th, or 12th Houses, for then there will be every opportunity of securing fame and advancement in life.
But when any of the malefic planets are found exactly on or nearest to the meridian, whether above or below the horizon, there will be loss of position, reversal, a sinister fame, or disgrace.
The 10th House represents the fame and honour of a person, and the 4th House represents the end of life and that which militates against the fame and honour. Therefore when there are good planets in these places, the Subject will meet with rewards and honours commensurate with his efforts; but when evil planets occupy the meridian, he will at best sustain his position in life with great difficulty.
It is futile for any one to suppose that the position of a benefic planet in the meridian of the horoscope will bring him to fame and elevate him in the world irrespective of his own endeavours. The planets operate on human affairs in terms of human thought and action, and that by fixed laws; never adventitiously. That “the Gods help those who help themselves” to the extent that natural laws permit, is a truth which astrology fully provides for. Fitness and fortune are as cause and effect to one another in respect of planetary action in human life.
Many planets in cardinal signs will dispose a man to seek fame, and when the Midheaven of the horoscope is well aspected or there be fortunate planets therein, hewill attain it. Cardinal signs on the angles of the horoscope (the meridian and horizon), produce fame outlasting death. The same if either of the luminaries be exactly on the equinoxes.
Venus in the Midheaven gives social elevation and lifts a person above the sphere of birth. Good planets in the 11th show patronage.
But when the luminaries are heavily afflicted there will be an inconstant fortune and many reverses, so that position gained will be lost again.
Most of the planets under the horizon shows success and position in the latter part of life, while if they be between the 4th and 7th cusps, there will be advantages after marriage, or by means of partnerships.
In judging of the means by which the position will be sustained, respect must be had to the positions of those planets which are in good aspect to the Midheaven, or to benefic planets in the Midheaven, and if none be so situated, then those which hold benefic aspect to either the Sun or Moon at birth must be taken, and judgment made according to the nature of the planet and the sign it occupies. Preference should always be given to that planet which has the strongest aspect for good. Thus if two planets were in trine, that which is in elevation should be preferred, especially if it be strengthened by the good aspects of other planets.
The enormous waste of force and time entailed by the experimental trip upon which most young men embark at the outset of their career in life, might be greatly reduced by a proper knowledge of individual aptitude in relation to circumstances. The average boy cannot readily make up his mind as to what occupation he will follow, because he does not know either enough of his own powers or of the world in which he is called upon to use them. Parents are in the same difficulty. They must needs wait to see how a boy will shape out. They study his inclinations to the best of their ability, but without coming to a definite conclusion any sooner than the boy himself. Given a fair education, such as may fit him for almost anything, but which specialises him for nothing in particular, he is put to some desk or bench and there left to his own resources. By a fortunate chance, he may find himself suited to his post. More frequently he is several years in finding out that he has missed his vocation, that his inclinations and his work are not in accord, that he has misapplied his energies for some time, and that he has made a false start. Fortunately circumstanced at birth he may have been equipped by higher education for some distinctive profession, to which he gains access after the payment of large fees or premiums. The man has a strong dramatic faculty and the stage claims him after all. Here is both waste of time and money. Astrology, as a reliable key to character and inclination, deserves some recognition on the grounds of social economy.
The inclinations of the Subject are judged from the position of the majority of the planets, for if they should be found in the aerial signs, Gemini, Libra, or Aquarius, the inclination will be towards mental occupations, especially science and literature. In fiery signs there is a predisposition to a more robust and active life, such as is afforded by military service, travelling, prospecting, exploring, &c. In earthy signs the aptitude lies in the direction of agriculture, experimental science, surveying, dealing in real estate, broking, &c. In watery signs there is special inclination to pursuits connected with the water, such as sailors, watermen, and others; but frequently to other occupation in which fluids are predominant, such as publicans, wine and spirit merchants, chemists, and oil merchants.
Each sign has its special tendency, and the exact occupation can often be decided thereby, when regard is had to the planet in closest aspect to the Sun or Moon and the sign it occupies. Thus Aries denotes soldiers and pioneers of movements; Taurus shows dealers in real estate, house agents and brokers; Gemini, literary men and writers of all sorts; Cancer, sailors and publicans; Leo, actors and artists; Virgo, clothes dealers and sellers of confectionery and bread; Libra, valuers, assayers,money-changers, and pawnbrokers; Scorpio, naval sailors, chemists, dealers in oils and spirits; Sagittarius, explorers, divines, lawyers; Capricornus, political agents and ministers of the State; Aquarius, electricians, company promoters, syndics, and scientific researchers; Pisces, dealers in fish and sea produce, warders, and those connected with places of confinement, such as prisons and hospitals.
Taking, therefore, the dominant planet and the signs that hold the majority of the planets, the line along which the Subject will make the most progress in the world and acquit himself most successfully, may be readily determined.
No person will make a good soldier who has not Mars as a dominant planet, nor will he succeed with the public if the Moon be not elevated and well aspected, nor become a successful artist, musician, or poet if Venus be not conspicuous in the horoscope.
Generally the inclination is derived from a consideration of the dominant planet, and the degree of success attendant upon the occupation is judged from the aspect which that planet throws to the Sun or Moon, and there can be no great advantage from following an inclination which does not promise some measure of success, as is the case when the dominant planet is in evil aspect to the luminaries. Thus it happens that some men follow unprofitable callings, their judgment being dominated by an inclination adverse to their natural welfare. Yet never was good work done in the world without a strong inclination and considerable enthusiasm, and Heaven makes its own slaves, its martyrs, and its scapegoats. And always, the following of an inclination means thesacrifice of some of the benefits of life. “Take what thou wilt, but pay the price!” is the Divine mandate, according to Emerson.
But unquestionably, the science which enables a man to choose the line of least resistance, which prevents a youth of intellectual tendencies from wasting the best years of his life in drudgery at the desk or bench, is worth a little study. “Hitch your waggon to a star,” is good advice if only we hitch it to the right one.
The question as to how, when, and where marriage will take place is an all-absorbing one to the majority of men and women, and no less important than interesting. Astrology has made it possible to answer these questions categorically and with particular precision and verity.
The conditions of connubial life are judged (in a male horoscope) from the condition of the Moon and Venus, and (in a female horoscope) from that of the Sun and Mars. The planet to which the luminary first forms an aspect after birth (that which it “applies” to) denotes the marriage partner. If the aspect be good there will be agreement and the choice of a partner will be fortunate. But if the aspect be evil, there will be trouble after marriage. The nature of the planet to which the luminary forms its aspect after birth ought also to be considered, for if it be that the luminary applies by a good aspect to a benefic planet, or to one that is well-placed and aspected, then there will be considerable happiness and fortune in marriage. On the other hand, if both the aspect and the planet be evil—as if the Moon were applying to theopposition of Saturn or Uranus or Mars—then the fate in marriage will be extremely unhappy and disagreements will be frequent and even permanent.
When the aspect and the nature of the planet are at variance, as when the Moon has a good aspect to Saturn, or a bad aspect to Jupiter, there will be a mingled fortune of good and ill in marriage. There is no better sign of happiness and harmony in marriage than a good aspect between the Sun and Moon.
Moreover, it may happen that the Moon applies by good aspect to a planet after birth, and that there is at the same time a malefic body in the 7th House. This indicates that there will be agreement in the connubial life, but that bereavement will soon follow.
When the Moon applies to Neptune there will be some peculiarity or touch of genius in the partner, according as Neptune may be aspected. Uranus shows eccentricity and sometimes wilfulness. Saturn shows steadiness, industry; or jealousy and coldness. Jupiter indicates a good nature, bountiful and honest, but may be given to excess and extravagance. Mars induces industry and practicality, but it gives a strong temper and considerable independence. The Sun shows dignity and loyalty, but may indicate ostentation and foolish pride. Venus denotes peacefulness and a genial, refined nature, but its perversion brings indifference, neglect and disorderliness. Mercury denotes an active and energetic nature, but may produce a busybody and meddler.
Everything depends on the aspect which the significant luminary throws to the planet it applies to, for if the aspect be good it will indicate the better qualities of that planet; but if evil, then there is frequently the unfortunate consequence of choosing a partner in whom the perverted qualities of the planet are predominant.
Good planets in the 7th House indicate a good partner, but when at the same time the aspect of the luminary is evil, it will denote a good marriage, followed by bereavement.
Marriage to a widow (or widower) occurs when Mars and Saturn are the planets concerned in the indications, as if Mars be in the 7th House and in aspect to Saturn, or if the Moon apply to Mars when aspected by Saturn, or when one of them is in the 5th House and the other in the 7th.
Love affairs before marriage are indicated by the 5th House, the planets therein and their aspects, and in a general sense by Venus in a male horoscope and Mars in a female horoscope.
Thus if Venus (or Mars) be afflicted by Saturn or Uranus there will be disappointment in the early affections. Uranus in aspect to Venus gives romantic attachments and much influence over the other sex. Neptune in aspect shows idealism, and when afflicting Venus it produces chaos and entanglement, danger of seduction. Mars afflicting Venus gives ardour and impulse.
is indicated when the luminary is in aspect to more than one planet in a double-bodied sign,e.g., Gemini, Sagittarius, or Pisces. Or, if the luminary itself be in a double sign and in aspect to any planet other than one which may be in the 7th House. Also a double sign being on the cusp of the 7th House, and the luminary in a fruitfulsign, Cancer, Scorpio, or Pisces, or in aspect to planets in those signs. All these are signs of more than one marriage during life.
Signs of separation or divorce are as follows: The luminary applying to the ill aspect of a malefic planet, Venus afflicted, and Uranus in the 7th House or afflicting the Moon or Venus. In female horoscopes change the Significators, taking the Sun and Mars instead of the Moon and Venus, and judge the same.
Where more than one marriage is shown, the ruler of the 7th House denotes the first partner, and the planet ruling the sign it occupies is called its “dispositor” or “displacer.” This dispositor represents the second partner.
The planet to which the significant luminary applies is that which is taken to describe the partner, according to the sign it is in. But if this planet be retrograde, i.e., going backwards in the zodiac by apparent motion, then it only represents an attachment which will be broken off. Its dispositor then becomes the significator of the partner. But the ruler of the 7th House is taken for the condition and fortunes of the partner, and if it be afflicted or badly placed and weak in the horoscope, then the marriage will be ill-assorted, unfortunate, and full of dissatisfaction. The contrary is the case when the significant planet is well placed and aspected.
The place or circumstances under which the partner will be met may be known from the sign and house occupied by the planet to which the luminary first applies after birth. Thus if it be in the 11th House, the partner will be met among friends, at the house of a friend, or introduced by a friend. If in the 3rd House, then on ashort journey or in correspondence; in the 5th, at a place of amusement; in the 10th, in the course of business; and so on, judgment being made according to the places and circumstances ruled by the House occupied by the planet.