Taurus (astrology)

Not to be confused with Taurus (constellation).

Taurus
Zodiac symbol	Bull
Duration (tropical, western)	April 19 – May 20 (2024, UT1)
Constellation	Taurus
Zodiac element	Earth
Zodiac quality	Fixed
Sign ruler	Venus and Terra
Detriment	Pluto, Mars
Exaltation	Moon
Fall	None; No Traditional Fall

Taurus (♉) (the Latin word for bull) is the second astrological sign in the Zodiac. It spans the 30-60th degree of the zodiac, between 27.25 and 54.75 degree of celestial longitude. Under the tropic zodiac, the Sun transits this area on average between April 20 and May 20 each year. Under the sidereal zodiac, the sun currently transits the constellation of Taurus from May 16 to June 15 (approximately). Individuals born during these dates, depending on which system of astrology they subscribe to, may be called Taureans. The symbol of the bull is based on the Cretan Bull, the white bull that fathered the Minotaur and was killed by Hercules.

History

Taurus used to be the first sign of the zodiacs, because it indicated the vernal equinox. However, currently, it is now the second sign of the zodiacs, although Taurus is still associated with the renewal of spring. Taurus, meaning bull in Latin, was chosen to represent this kind of personality to portray a strong willed character with great perseverance and determination. Also, in Egypt, Taurus was seen as a representation of the cow goddess Hathor. The cow goddess Hathor was the goddess of beauty, love, and happiness, and she represented all of the riches seen in cattle as the providers of nourishment. Taurus is also ruled by the Roman goddess Venus (the goddess of beauty).