Zodiac Signs and Their Meanings

An individual's zodiac sign is determined by the day, month and time of birth. There
are certain traits that are unique to each zodiac sign.
Aries - (March 21 - April 19)
The ram is the symbol, Mars is the ruling planet and the element is fire. An Arian is
creative, adaptive and strong-willed. People belonging to this zodiac sign are
ambitious and go-getters. They are enthusiastic and passionate about their life.
Aries being a fire sign, the Arians are stubborn and hot-tempered. They have a good
sense of humor and could get along with any type of crowd. One of the major
drawbacks of an Arian is that he is very secretive about his feelings for others. You
can trust an Arian. They get along well with zodiac signs such as Scorpio, Leo,
Sagittarius, Libra and Gemini.
Taurus - (April 20 - May 19)
The bull is the symbol, ruling planet is Venus and the element is earth. People
belonging to this sign are physically and mentally strong. They have great strength
and stamina. Though stubborn by nature, they are loving and sympathetic. They
have excellent teaching skills. They get along well with Libra, Scorpio and Capricorn.
Gemini - (May 20- June 20)
The twins is the symbol, planet Mercury rules this star and the element is air. The
terms that explain the nature of a Gemini are flexibility and adaptability. They are
positive and optimistic people. One can never predict how a Gemini will react to a
situation. People belonging to this sign are creative, great communicators, and are
open to new ideas. They are generous and have an ability to motivate and inspire
others. They get along well with Aries, Leo, Virgo, Sagittarius and Libra.
Cancer - (June 21 - July 22)
The crab is the symbol, Moon is the ruling planet and water is the element. People
belonging to this sign are known as peacemakers. Cancerians love home-life and
are traditional in their outlook. They have an immense amount of patience and are
empathetic in nature. They are caring in nature and hate to see others suffering.
They match well with the zodiac signs Scorpio, Taurus, Aquarius and Pisces.
Leo - (July 23 - August 21)
The lion is the symbol, Sun is the ruling planet and the element is fire. People born
in this sign are born leaders. They are brave, intuitive and headstrong. They are
loving and generous people. Although a bit bossy, a Leos has a warm heart. A Leo

gets along with another Leo, Scorpio, Gemini, and Capricorn.

Virgo - (August 22 - September 22)
The virgin is the symbol, Mercury is the ruling planet and earth is the element.
People belonging to this sign are perfectionists. They are naturally intuitive and
have remarkable memories. A person born in this sign makes an excellent team
player and is good at organizing and planning. Virgo is compatible with Pisces,
Taurus and Gemini.
Libra - (September 23 - October 22)
The scales are the symbol, Venus is the ruling planet and the element is air. People
belonging to this sign are charming and sociable. They are just by nature and are
trustworthy. Libra is compatible with Aquarius, Taurus and Aries.
Scorpio - (October 23 - November 21)
The symbol is scorpion, planet is Pluto and the element is water. Scorpions have an
enterprising nature. By nature they are bold, cool and exhibit self-confidence. They
are loyal and possessive people. Scorpions exhibit great deal of courage and they
are sure about their goals in life. They get along with Pisces, Leo and Capricorn.
Sagittarius - (November 22 - December 21)
The symbol is a centaurian archer, ruling planet is Jupiter and the element is fire.
Sagittarians are philosophers and they are honest. They are extremely fidgety and
lack patience. Sagittarians are focused in their work and family life. They are
compatible with Aries, Gemini, Taurus and Virgo.
Capricorn - (December 22 - January 20)
The symbol is goat, Saturn is the ruling planet and the element is earth. Capricorn
people are intelligent and are excellent in matters of business. People belonging to
this sign display immense amount of patience and perseverance. Capricorn is
compatible with Leo, Scorpio and Taurus.
Aquarius - (January 21 - February 19)
The symbol is a water-bearer, Uranus is the ruling planet and the element is air.
Aquarians are simple and unassuming people. They are honest, loyal and
dependable. They are independent and intelligent people. Aquarians are compatible
with Gemini, Pisces, Libra, and Aquarius.

Pisces - (February 20 - March 20)

The symbol is a fish, Neptune is the ruling planet and water is the element of this
zodiac sign. People belonging to this sign are immensely emotional and generous
people. They are honest, trustworthy and selfless people
Read more at Buzzle: http://www.buzzle.com/articles/explanation-of-zodiac-signsand-their-meanings.html

Zodiac Signs in the Complete Horoscope

The Twelve Zodiac Star Signs and Their Meanings in Classical Astrology

In astrology as well as astronomy, the Zodiac is a 360 circle around the

earth, where each of the twelve Zodiac signs is 30. In astronomy it is simply
used as a coordinate system, to mark the positions of celestial bodies. In
astrology and the horoscope, though, the Zodiac signs have their own
meanings.

The Zodiac Signs in the Horoscope

There are twelve Zodiac signs, each 30 wide, making a total of 360, which is the full
circle around the earth. They correspond to the same number of constellations of stars
in the sky, but the latter are not equally wide.

In astrology and the horoscope, each Zodiac sign represents a character, a tendency, which affects
any celestial body therein. The planets express what happens, the Houses where it happens, the
aspects why, and the Zodiac signs how.
Every planet moves through the Zodiac signs (with very differing speed), and changes character
according to what sign it occupies at the moment. The planets are the acting forces in the horoscope,
but the Zodiac signs nuance and alter their character.
Here are the twelve Zodiac signs, with links to the webpage of each on this website:
Aries
Taurus
Gemini
Cancer

Leo
Virgo
Libra
Scorpio

Sagittarius
Capricorn
Aquarius
Pisces

Horoscope chart with only the twelve Zodiac signs marked, each covering 30 of the circle's 360.

The Zodiac Signs of the Horoscope

Here are the twelve Zodiac signs, their English meanings, and keywords for their
respective characters in the horoscope:

Aries, the Ram challenging, impulsive

Taurus, the Bull conservative, concrete
Gemini, the Twins communicative, playful
Cancer, the Crab caring, sensitive
Leo, the Lion dominant, proud
Virgo, the Virgin careful, minute
Libra, the Scales negotiating, ethical
Scorpio, the Scorpion hidden, passionate
Sagittarius, the Archer impatient, independent
Capricorn, the Goat ambitious, decisive
Aquarius, the Water Bearer profund, original
Pisces, the Fishes searching, submissive

Zodiac Sign Motto

Each Zodiac sign can also be said to have a motto, an expression that helps to clarify
its character. Here are the mottos of the twelve Zodiac signs in the horoscope:

Aries, the Ram "I am."

Taurus, the Bull "I have."

Gemini, the Twins "I think."
Cancer, the Crab "I feel."
Leo, the Lion "I want."
Virgo, the Virgin "I scrutinize."
Libra, the Scales "I balance."
Scorpio, the Scorpion "I wish."
Sagittarius, the Archer "I see."
Capricorn, the Goat "I use."
Aquarius, the Water Bearer "I know."
Pisces, the Fishes "I believe."

Zodiac Sign Element and Quality

The characters of the Zodiac signs are to a large extent dependent on their astrological
element and quality. Every Zodiac sign in the horoscope belongs to one of the four
Greek elements, which represent four aspects of life:
1. Fire activity
2. Earth materialism
3. Air thought
4. Water emotions
Since there are twelve Zodiac signs and four elements, there are three signs
belonging to each element. There are also three different basic qualities that signs
have:

1. Cardinal leading
2. Fixed static
3. Mutable following
Four elements and three qualities make twelve possible combinations. So, each
Zodiac sign has its own unique combination of element and quality.
CARDINAL

FIXED

MUTABLE

FIRE

Aries

Leo

Sagittarius

EARTH

Taurus

Virgo

Capricorn

AIR

Gemini

Libra

Aquarius

WATER

Cancer

Scorpio

Pisces

In principle, the combination of element and quality that is unique to each Zodiac sign in the
horoscope, decides what its character is.

Zodiac Sign Ruling and Exalting

Each Zodiac sign is also said to have a ruling and an exalting planet in the horoscope.
This simply means that some planets are particularly enforced by the character of that
Zodiac sign. A planet rules over the Zodiac sign where it fits better than the other
planets do, and it exalts in a sign where it fits better than any other planet than the
ruler of that sign.

Here are the ruling and exalting planets (note that also the sun and the moon are regarded as
planets in this context) of the Zodiac signs in the horoscope:
SIGN

RULER

EXALTED

Aries
Taurus
Gemini
Cancer
Leo

Mars
Venus
Mercury
Moon
Sun

Sun
Moon
Jupiter
Venus
Pluto

Virgo
Libra
Scorpio
Sagittarius
Capricorn
Aquarius
Pisces

Mercury
Venus
Pluto
Jupiter
Saturn
Uranus
Neptune

Venus
Mercury
Neptune
Uranus
Mars
Saturn
Mercury

Since there are twelve Zodiac signs and only ten planets to divide between them, Venus and
Mercury both rule and exalt in two signs each.
Regarding what planets rule and exalt in what Zodiac signs, astrologers don't agree completely,
but most of the above is generally accepted. In any case, the rulership and exaltation should not be
overly emphasized in horoscope interpretations. A planet's character in a sign speaks well for itself,
without these generalizations.

The Zodiac figures. Albrecht Drer's celestial globe, Northern hemisphere, 1515.

Star Sign - the Sun

When people are said to be born in a certain Zodiac sign, it only means that the sun
was in that sign at their birth. It's their sun sign. The sun is only one component in the
complete horoscope of classical astrology - although an important one - so predicitons
based only on that are not astrologically adequate. All the ingredients of the whole
horoscope chart have to be considered. Still, the sun is very important in the
horoscope, so it has a lot of influence

The sun moves steadily through the Zodiac signs of the horoscope,
spending slightly more than 30 days in each of them. The calendar
system of leap years makes the dates of change from one sign to another
jump around a little, but below are the average dates that the sun spends
in each Zodiac sign. The list also contains links to websites of mine
devoted to each ot the sun signs:
Aries March 21 - April 19
Taurus April 20 - May 20
Gemini May 21 - June 20
Cancer June 21 - July 22
Leo July 23 - August 22
Virgo August 23 - September 22
Libra September 23 - October 22
Scorpio October 23 - November 21
Sagittarius November 22 - December 21
Capricorn December 22 - January 19
Aquarius January 20 - February 19
Pisces February 20 - March 20

If you are born on a date of change, or the day before or after it, you should have your sun
position calculated by a horoscope program, to ascertain what Zodiac sun sign you are. I have
written about how to do that here:
Your Own Horoscope

The Zodiac, its images and symbols. From a book by Barocius, 1585.

Vernal equinox
The traditional order of the Zodiac signs starts with Aries, because it is the moment of
the vernal equinox. That date was also the date of the new year, in ancient Europe. At
the autumnal equinox, the sun moves into the Zodiac sign Libra. At the summer
solstice it enters Cancer, and at the winter solstice Capricorn.

Zodiac Sign Symbols

The symbols (also called glyphs) used for the Zodiac signs are the same in astrology
and astronomy. I have made ink brush versions of those symbols, just for fun, which
can be found on my webpages about each of the Zodiac signs. Here is a more strict
rendering of them:

Zodiac sign symbols. From left to right: Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra,
Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, Pisces.

The Twelve Zodiac Signs and Their Traits

Astrology Signs and Meanings

.
Aries - The Ram
March 21 - April 19
Aries people are creative, adaptive, and insightful. They can
also be strong-willed and spontaneous (sometimes to a fault).
Aries people can be driven and are very ambitious often
making them over-achievers in anything they set their mind to
tackle. Aries are fire signs, and so too is their personality. They
may be quick to anger, but don't take it personally, it's just
their fiery, passionate personalities showing through. Aries
signs have excellent sense of humor, and they get along with
almost everyone at the party (and they DO know how to
party). Aries can be impatient, but we love them anyway
because they are devoted friends, lovers and family members they are loyal to then end and will fight for their causes
(usually supporting the underdog). See symbolic meanings of
the Ram here.

.
Taurus - The Bull
April 20 - May 20
Taurus zodiac signs and meanings, like the animal that
represents them, is all about strength, stamina and will.
Stubborn by nature, the Taurus will stand his/her ground to the
bitter end (sometimes even irrationally so). But that's okay
because the Taurus is also a loving, sympathetic and
appreciative sign. The Taurus is very understanding and when
we need someone to unburden ourselves to, we often share
our deepest fears with the Taurians of the zodiac. Taurians are
very patient, practical and efficient, they are excellent in
matters of business and are also wonderful
instructors/teachers. Although initially they may have their
own best interest at heart, they are ultimately & endlessly
generous with their time, possessions and love.

Gemini - The Twins

May 21 - June 20
Flexibility, balance and adaptability are the keywords for the
Gemini. They are quick to grasp the meaning of a situation and
act on it, often with positive effects. They tend to have a
duality to their nature, and can sometimes be tough to predict
how they will react. They can turn from hot to cold and may be
prone to noticeable mood swings. However, they are generous
signs with tendencies of being affectionate, and imaginative.
They also inspire others easily as they seem to naturally
motivate themselves - their charisma and accomplishments
are infectious. Geminians are very supportive, and are
especially good at promotions, sales, and driving hard
bargains.

.
Cancer - The Crab
June 21 - July 22
Cancerians love home-life, family and domestic settings. They
are traditionalists, and enjoy operating on a fundamental level.
They love history, and are fascinated with the beginnings of
things (heraldry, ancestry, etc.). The moon is their ruler, so
they can be a bit of a contradiction and sometimes moody.
However, they are conservative, so they'll be apt to hide their
moods from others altogether. They have a reputation for
being fickle, but they'll tell you that isn't true, and it's not.
Cancerians make loyal, sympathetic friends. However
Cancerians need alone time, and when they retreat, let them
do so on their terms.

.
Leo - The Lion
July 23 - August 22
The zodiac signs and meanings of Leo is about expanse, power
and exuberance. Leo's are natural born leaders, and they will
let you know it as they have a tendency to be high-minded and
vocal about their opinions. That's okay, because if you
observe, the Leo is usually correct in his/her statements. Leo's
have a savvy way of analyzing a situation and executing swift
judgment with a beneficial outcome. It comes from being a
leader. They are brave, intuitive, and also head-strong and
willful. Beneath their dynamic persona lies a generous, loving,

sensitive nature that they do not easily share with others. They
might be a bit bossy, but those who know them understand
this comes from a source need to do good, not (usually) from
an inflated ego.

.
Virgo - The Virgin
August 23 - September 22
Virgo's have keen minds, and are delightful to talk with, often
convincing others of outlandish tales with ease and charm.
Virgo's are inquisitive and are very skilled at drawing
information from people. This trait also makes them naturally
intuitive. Combine this with their remarkable memories, and
we see an advanced, analytical personality. However the Virgo
needs balance in their lives otherwise they may become shorttempered, impatient and self-serving. Virgo's are excellent
teammates in work and social activities. They work well with
others, although they freely express their opinions (even when
unwarranted).

.
Libra - The Scales
September 23 - October 22
As their zodiac signs and meanings would indicate, Libra's are
all about balance, justice, equanimity and stability. They easily
surround themselves with harmony and beauty, but sometimes
go to extremes to do so if their goals are unreasonable or
unhealthy. With Venus as their ruling planet, Libra's are very
understanding, caring, and often the champion of underdogs.
They have keen intuitions, but often don't give themselves
enough credit for their perceptions. They can be quiet and shy
if not persuaded to come out of their shell. Ironically and in
spite of their introverted nature they make excellent debaters,
often proving a point from out of seemingly nowhere.

Scorpio - The Scorpion

October 23 - November 21
The Scorpio is often misunderstood. These personalities are
bold and are capable of executing massive enterprises with
cool control and confidence. They can surmount seemingly all
obstacles when they put their mind to the task, and they have
unshakable focus when the situation calls for it. Regardless of
their bold nature, they are often secretive, but they are always
observing behind their withdrawn manner. Being associated
with a solar animal, (the scorpion) they are not withdrawn for
long, and when they come out again they do so with force,
vigor and determination. It is true, Scorpio's can be
argumentative and pack a powerful sting, but that's simply
because they see all opposition as a healthy challenge.

.
Sagittarius - The Centaur
November 22 - December 21
Here we have the philosopher among the zodiac signs and
meanings. Like the Scorpio, they have great ability for focus,
and can be very intense. However, they must channel their
energy or they will waste time and wear themselves out going
in too many directions at once. They are not very patient and
expect quick results. However, when encountered with failure
they make extreme comeback's often against incredible odds.
They make loyal friends and lovers, but they do not handle
commitment well as they refuse to be tied down while chasing
philosophical pursuits.

.
Capricorn - The Goat
December 22 - January 19
Capricorn's are also philosophical signs and are highly
intelligent too. They apply their knowledge to practical
matters, and strive to maintain stability and order. They are
good organizers, and they achieve their goals by purposeful,
systematic means. They are very intuitive, although they don't
share this trait with others freely. They do not deal well with
opposition or criticism but a healthy Capricorn will often shrug
off negative comments towards their character. They are
patient and persevering - they know they can accomplish any
task as long as they follow a their plan step-by-step.

Capricorn's have broad shoulders, and typically take on other's

problems with aplomb. Ironically, they rarely share their own
problems and tend to go through bouts of inner gloom after a
spell of dwelling on these problems.

.
Aquarius - The Water Bearer
January 20 - February 18
Often simple and unassuming, the Aquarian goes about
accomplishing goals in a quiet, often unorthodox ways.
Although their methods may be unorthodox, the results for
achievement are surprisingly effective. Aquarian's will take up
any cause, and are humanitarians of the zodiac. They are
honest, loyal and highly intelligent. They are also easy going
and make natural friendships. If not kept in check, the
Aquarian can be prone to sloth and laziness. However, they
know this about themselves, and try their best to motivate
themselves to action. They are also prone to philosophical
thoughts, and are often quite artistic and poetic.

.
Pisces - The Fish
February 19 - March 20
Also unassuming, the Pisces zodiac signs and meanings deal
with acquiring vast amounts of knowledge, but you would
never know it. They keep an extremely low profile compared to
others in the zodiac. They are honest, unselfish, trustworthy
and often have quiet dispositions. They can be overcautious
and sometimes gullible. These qualities can cause the Pisces to
be taken advantage of, which is unfortunate as this sign is
beautifully gentle, and generous. In the end, however, the
Pisces is often the victor of ill circumstance because of his/her
intense determination. They become passionately devoted to a
cause - particularly if they are championing for friends or
family.