The Ascendant, Descendant, Midheaven and Immum Coeli are called the four angles of a chart. Planets which are conjoined at these points have marked importance and power in an individual’s personality, and are referred to as ‘angular’ planets.
The Ascendant-Descendant line divides the circle into upper and lower halves, the lower part symbolising a more subjective experience or consciousness, and the upper part symbolising objective consciousness and experience in the outer world. The Midheaven-Imum Coeli line divides the circle into an Eastern and Western hemisphere; the Eastern hemisphere is to do with the self and self-activity, whilst the Western hemisphere is linked with others’ influence and the way this impacts on an individual’s life. A chart with an emphasis of planets located in the lower half of the Ascendant-Descendant axis, for example, suggests a more self-oriented, interior, personal bias whist an emphasis of planets in the upper half suggests much activity in the outer world.
THE ASCENDANT/ DESCENDANT AXIS
The ascendant (ASC) is a point on the ecliptic that rises on the eastern horizon at a particular moment and changes as the Eerth rotates on its axis, and the descendant (DEC) is a point where the ecliptic meets the western horizon on the opposite point to the ascendant.
The signs of the zodiac containing these angular points at the time of birth are very important in astrological interpretation because the power of attraction is determined by the line of force between the ascendant, descendant axis.
The ascendant is the first point of action which attracts close relationships such as marriage and any other close partnership/relationships.
The sign on the ascendant describes your temperament, the personality you display when dealing with others. Depending on how you interact with others and deal with problems in personal relationships, depends on whether you will achieve harmony or discord. You should take note of the interacting energies between the ascendant, descendant axis when relationships fail to satisfy mutual interests or expectations in order to express the more positive qualities of the sign on the as
The ascendant describes your temperament or disposition and it represents the expression of “self” in relation to others. The descendant (the opposite point to the ascendant) shows the characteristics you express in close relationships, partnerships and friendships. You can have deeply fulfilling personal relationships once you understand the magnetic line of action and attraction between the ascendant, descendant axis. The point on the ascendant is opposite to the point on the descendant. These points are referred to as the ascendant, descendant axis and they strongly influence close relationships.
The following interpretations of the ascendant, descendant axis are designed to help you to understand the magnetic line of attraction in marriage and any other close relationships.
The Ascendant or Rising sign (the terms are interchangeable) is a very important part of your horoscope. Your Ascendant is the sign that reflects your outward demeanor and to a great extent determines how the outside world looks at you. The word outer is significant in defining your Rising sign, for this is the sign that represents your outer personality. In modern terminology, it is your image. Very often your Ascendant is what the world first sees in you, the impression that you first make on other people. Many astrologers believe that your Rising sign is more immediately revealing than your Sun sign. Your Rising sign has been likened to the door of a house, the entranceway that visitors first see and must pass through in order to look into the house itself.
I have found that the personality you outwardly project is almost always a perfect blend of your Sun sign and Rising sign. It is this combination that makes your unique impact on the world. Your Moon sign is a more hidden aspect of your personality. It is a pervasive influence, but it is likely that other people sense the influence of your Moon sign in your character rather than see it on the surface. Your Ascendant is the sign that was rising over the eastern horizon at the time of your birth (hence, your Rising sign). When you were born you left the condition of being a fetus and became a separate, fully formed human being. Therefore, the sign that was rising at this precise moment denotes your first experience as a separate human being; it expresses the moment in which you began independent existence in this world. As such, it characterizes the way you deal with others and your distinctive style of interacting with people. It speaks of your coping mechanisms and how you react to anything new that life throws at you. In many respects, your Ascendant is the sign that makes you feel most comfortable psychically. Its behaviors reassure you that you are coping well and will be safe as you enter unfamiliar emotional territory.
Your Ascendant is called the sign of your self-your self-awareness, your self-sufficiency, your self-interest. In many ways your Rising sign signifies your goals, aims, and objectives, and indicates the main thrust of your creative powers. To some degree, this sign also influences your physical characteristics and mannerisms. It is your mask of outward appearance. Like any mask, it may hide your real face, but more likely it is simply a part of your real face. It is the face that you most easily and naturally show to others.
In reading the description of your Rising sign, keep in mind that this is not a delineation of you. You are a blend, and your Ascendant is only part of your personality. Only by self-examination can you discern which parts of you are your Sun sign, which are your Moon sign, and which are your Rising sign.
Your Rising Sign can be abbreviated on a birth chart as ASC or AS. When you know the time you were born, your Ascendant sign can be calculated to the exact degree.
Because the Ascendant sign is specific to the time and place of the individual birth, it represents the environment and conditioning a person may be influenced by during their childhood and is considered as important and significant as the Sun and Moon signs, because all other aspects on the chart are filtered through this sign.
The Ascendant is said to be the mask one wears in public. It is the first impression we make when we meet new people. Often, if you are confused at how others have described you, it is because they are describing this aspect of your personality. The Ascendant takes part in your appearance and personality, going as far as influencing physical characteristics sometimes. The sign becomes expressed in your image, style and mannerisms. It is also expressed in how you act. Some astrologers theorize that the sign becomes weaker after a person reaches 30 years of age, as their confidence grows in who they are.
Your Rising sign appears as the first personality traits you exhibit. It is your autopilot it responds to your environment. Your Sun sign gradually becomes more noticeable over time. The two signs will eventually blend, creating an outer layer and an inner layer, enclosing the Moon sign deep inside.
Like other Signs of the Zodiac, Rising signs fall into fire, earth, air or water categories. Fire signs like Aries, Leo and Sagittarius appear energetic, optimistic and enthusiastic. They usually appear friendly and non-critical, and they generally do well with others in social gatherings. Earth signs like Taurus, Capricorn and Virgo come off as practical and secure. They may appear a bit shy, or cautious and serious. Air signs like Gemini, Libra and Aquarius are good at communication. They are perceived as sociable and friendly, if a little independent or detached. The Water signs of Pisces, Scorpio and Cancer are seen as emotional, intuitive and feeling. These people will usually hide their true feelings and feel a need to protect themselves from the world. How they present themselves to the world is done for effect so they do not feel they are at risk.
Planets and the Ascendant. Planets can assume added importance in the birth chart due to their relationship to the ascendant. The planet that rules the astrological sign of the ascendant is called the chart ruler, and is said to be of particular importance. So for example, if the ascendant sign is Aries, Mars will be the chart ruler, and so ‘set the tone’ for the chart in many ways. In addition, the planet nearest the ascendant in the first house is usually called the rising planet and has a particular importance in the chart. However, if a planet in the twelfth house is very close (within one or two degrees) to the ascendant, then it can be taken to be the rising planet instead. If a planet is actually in conjunction with the ascendant it then becomes vitally important in its effect on the personality, to the extent of being almost as important as the sun in some cases.
The Ascendant is also the sign on the cusp of the first house of the natal chart. The Ascendant is one of the four angles of the chart. The other three are the Descendant (directly opposite the Ascendant), the Imum Coeli (IC), and the Midheaven (MC). The Ascendant defines, in part, the first impression we make on others in a personal rather than professional sense. It represents our physical appearance, our physical bodies and overall health, and the body ego. What it does represent is our natural and personal defense mechanisms that we use to adapt to, and cope with, our environment. The Ascendant also shows our first impressions of the world around us, and reveals our expectations of the world around us–whether we are naturally hesitant or enthusiastic, for example. How we begin new projects, and our attitude towards new experiences come under the rule of the Ascendant.
“Used to its highest potential the Descendant can show the way to harmony, peace, equanimity and accord.”
The Ascendant/Descendant axis is one of the most important factors to study in a chart. The Ascendant is the key to self-discovery as it defines how you present yourself to the outer world. It forms the cusp of the first house and as such it is associated with identity. This is the point of the chart that describes how you learn about and express yourself. The point directly opposite or 180 degrees from Ascendant is known as the Descendant. It forms the cusp of the seventh house and the sign here is the one that was setting in the west at the time of birth.
As the seventh is the first of the social houses, the Descendant marks the beginning point of outward expression. It is here that we enter the realm of relationship. This is the place in the chart that describes our experience of others – how we deal with interpersonal relationships and how we develop our understanding of and connection with other people. The natural ruler of this house is Libra – a sign that is essentially concerned with creating balance, and as such it brings lessons regarding the integration of opposites. This being so, even though the Descendant might be said to relate to our ideal self, it is important to remember that this position can reveal either collaboration and alliance or competitiveness and conflict within our close associations.
The Descendant sign illustrates distinctive qualities regarding the impulse for liaison – our general attitude to those we are in close contact with, what we seek from them, what we give to them and how we relate to and respond to them. Not only does this point describe who you are drawn to and get along with, it also shows the way you endeavour to work harmoniously with others and how you interact with them both on a personal level and in business. The manner in which you deal with controversy, compromise and issues of equality are shown here too as are traits that may be precarious in an adversary.
All relationships entail a certain degree of give and take, co-operation and conciliation. Used to its highest potential the Descendant can show the way to harmony, peace, equanimity and accord. Along the road to this lofty ideal, it is the place where we meet hidden or unacknowledged aspects of ourselves and possibly too, unhelpful attitudes in our approach to others. It is often through interrelationship conflicts we come into contact with the shadow part of our nature or we may tend to project an urge, impulse or aspect of ourselves on to someone else – albeit unconsciously. Careful and honest study of this point in the chart can reveal why we tend to meet the same problems in our closest affiliations over and over again – the challenge being not to reproach the other person but to look within. Our expectations of others can also be shown here, realistic ones and otherwise.
By definition, the Descendant is the opposite point to the Ascendant and from this we can infer that our sense of identity is influenced by the relationships we attract into our lives. The sign on this point can represent a quality you like in yourself or one you feel is lacking and so seek in others in order to compliment your own life path and to experience a sense of completeness. Thus, it is perhaps true to say that the particular qualities and attributes we seek – and admire – in a partner, are the very qualities we perhaps need to develop and consciously work towards and acquire within ourselves.
As the cuspal point of the seventh house, the Descendant advises about important people in the life. It governs committed relationships, hence business and personal partnerships, associations with lawyers, mediators and consultants come under its rulership as does marriage, close one-to-one links and long-term associations. It is also said to rule open enemies – rivals, opponents and competitors – it is after all the counterbalance to the Ascendant, the house of self. Furthermore, it reveals your needs as regards relationship and how they may be fulfilled, as well as what you want from the other person and the response you give in return.
While Libra is the natural ruler of this cardinal air house, the majority of charts are likely to have a different sign on this cusp, and the quality it falls in can suggest wants, desires and requirements within close links: a cardinal sign suggests a need for initiative and dynamism, a fixed sign a need for permanence and stability and a mutable sign a need for variety and change. Nevertheless, the sign, house placement and aspects of Venus should always be carefully examined when relationship matters are being considered.
The element of the Descendant sign gives valuable information as to attributes we find desirable in a partner as well as elements within our own nature we do not want to own. A fire sign at this point of the chart suggests a need for energy, enthusiasm and inspiration within close links or it can give rise to an impetuous, confrontational or argumentative attitude to others. An earth sign implies a need for practicality, stoicism and usefulness or it can be intractable, disapproving and controlling. An air sign can occasion a need for feedback, objectivity and a good flow of ideas or it can induce a restless, overly compromising or indifferent approach. A water sign intimates a need for nurturance, care and support or there could be a somewhat smothering, jealous or impractical stance towards other people.
A few examples of each sign will serve to illustrate the possible import of each Descendant sign.
Aries engenders a potent need to find self in others as with this Descendant, relationships tend to be very much connected to self-image. Often, they are seen as an adventure and so an active, assertive partner is likely to be sought. On the other hand, aggressive or egotistical feelings can be credited to others. With Leo, the need for loyalty, creativity, fun and passion is accentuated, but arrogance, self-importance or pride may be projected too. Free-spirited links can be attracted with Sagittarius. With the Descendant here, few emotional demands may be placed on the partner but attributes of recklessness or extremism could be ascribed to others.
Taurus looks for security, assurance and stability. It wants to establish firm links built on practical values, but obstinacy, possessiveness and laziness can arise in associations too. One of the main themes with a Virgo Descendant is a tendency to look to others for the perfection perceived as lacking in self. At the same time, there is a need to be of service to others, though there can be an extremely critical response if personal expectations are not met. Others can be approached in a responsible and conscientious manner with Capricorn, but the desire for commitment and respect can incline to dominate relationships.
Gemini accords a need for variety and versatility and so a vibrant yet self-sufficient partner is likely to be preferred. Others can be charged with being inconsistent or superficial. With a Libra Descendant, the need to share the life with another is paramount as is the urge for fairness and justice in relationships. However, self-projection can unbalance equanimity. Aquarius confers a need for the unusual and so tends to attract interesting, surprising and out-of-the-ordinary relationships. At the same time, the desire for freedom space and latitude implies waywardness, insensitivity or eccentricity could be projected on to others.
Cancer searches for emotional surety, comfort and nourishment from others but personal needs can be cast on to a partner. With a Scorpio Descendant, relationships can be viewed as a vehicle for transformation and as a process wherein deep change can take place. However, others may be perceived as suspicious, secretive or vengeful. Relationships can sometimes be challenging with Pisces as gullibility or escapism can occur. However, they incline to be approached with compassion, idealism and great sensitivity too.
As with all Astrological configurations, delineation is a complex matter – planets in the first or seventh house, all aspects to either side of this axis and to their rulers all have to be taken into consideration in order to get a full and clear picture regarding personal connections. In particular, it is important to note that any planet(s) closely conjunct the Descendant can subtly shape relationship matters in accord with the nature of the planet involved.
For example, to individuals with the Sun here, relationships give their life significance and purpose but they can tend to give their power to other people or make them the focal point of their life. With the Moon emotional comfort and assurance will be sought and given through close links. Mercury here suggests a strong need for close communication and exchange of ideas. Venus indicates tremendous value is placed on relationships and Mars at this point implies they can be exciting and invigorating – or combative. Jupiter suggests links with those of a different culture religion or educational background could be meaningful whilst Saturn could grant a sense of responsibility in relationships or a fear of being controlled. The outer planets so placed have a powerful impact too – Uranus looks to others to bring a spirit of unconventionality, Neptune can confer a spirit of idealism or confusion and Pluto can provoke a sense of intensity and renewal.
Being one of the angles of the chart, the Descendant is an extremely powerful point – particularly so in the study of synastry. As the counterpart to the Ascendant it indicates where we may need to achieve a fresh perspective. In other words, this axis refers to the measure of assurance and awareness that is needed in order to sustain balance and equilibrium in our links with other people. In other words, the test of the Descendant is the gaining of unity and true accord – to attain an equal concern for self and for the significant other.
The MC/IC Axis
The Medium Coeli (MC), Latin for middle of the sky is the point on the ecliptic measured in degrees that crosses the meridian, or line of longitude of a particular place at a particular time, and the Imum Coeli (IC), Latin for ‘bottom of the sky’ is a point on the ecliptic that reaches the bottom of the sky on the opposite point to the Medium Coeli (MC).
The signs of the zodiac containing the angular points at the time of birth are very important in astrological interpretation because the power of inner self- perception, outer self-projection is determined by the angular line of force between the IC, MC axis.
The MC is the first point of outer-awareness. It represents the energy of the conscious mind – the ego. It is the conscious mind’s perception of the social environment from birth onwards, and it is responsible for modifying the instinctive energy of the subconscious mind – the id (IC). Depending on how you express the qualities of the sign on your MC depends on whether you will achieve your desire in the outer world.
The IC is the first point of inner-awareness; otherwise known as the id. The id is the primitive inborn personality, the source of all desires and it relates to your roots and early beginnings. Your childhood nurturing gave birth to your feelings of ‘belonging’ and your deepest sense of self. The ‘id’ or the inner ‘self’ is the centre of its own universe; all desires are immediate and represent all parts of the physical and emotional person. Such an idyll cannot last. The ego (MC) develops defence mechanisms to manage unresolved conflicts between the demands of the id (IC) and the expectations of the external emotional world.
For example, a child may grow up in a family where the natural rage in the child when it is disappointed is taken by the parent as an attack on the parent’s ability. Such a child will, in all likelihood, be corrected and shamed for its angry outbursts; however, the child’s rage in response to its frustration does not simply disappear, instead the rage is repressed because it simply threatens the child’s closeness to its parent. The child grows up frightened of its own capacity for rage and anger because it never had the chance to express it and regulate it of its own accord when it was young.
As an adult, such a person will have difficulty in modifying the inner-selves anti-social feelings and sensations with the outer-selves social expectations between themselves and other people, especially when there is real anger and frustration around them. Such a person will have great difficulty in forming well-rounded relationships. Added to this, such a person will occasionally become enraged for an apparently trivial reason because the repressed frustration becomes too much for the ego. This can shame the ego and confirm the need for further repression.
The sign on your IC describes the qualities that moulded and shaped your inner-awareness of self (id) and the MC describes the qualities that you identified with in your social development; these qualities moulded and shaped your ‘outer awareness of self (ego). Once you understand the magnetic line of energy between the MC/IC axis you will understand the energy that shaped your inner-self (id) and outer-self (ego).
The point on the MC is opposite the point on the IC. These points are referred to as the ‘MC, IC axis’, and they have a powerful influence over instinctive energy and conscious energy.
Midheaven (MC) Sign is the Zodiac Sign that was at the southern highest point above the horizon at the moment you were born. This southern highest point is also known as the Medium Coeli, or MC for short.
The Midheaven is the entrance to the tenth house and relates to your career, reputation and social standing. These are your most visible achievements in the eyes of the world. This will guide you to your professional achievements and responsibilities. Your life’s purpose, if you will. Your highest aspirations in life.
Your Midheaven Sign should give you some insight into what you need to realize your full place in life. You also must consider any planets that may be found in your ninth and tenth houses; they will modify the end results and make a difference in what career you ultimately choose and how successful you will be.
Of course, sometimes one must work at a job that isn’t right, and it can wreak havoc upon you, spiritually, mentally and emotionally. By focusing on your MC, you can refocus on your ideal. Coupled with your natural talents and inclinations, you should eventually find your place in the world and become re-energized.
You can also use your Midheaven Sign to understand your personal and spiritual goals. You can gain insight into why you react the way you do to stressful situations. Being social is different for everyone. The MC can help you learn to trust your best social qualities to cultivate. It will show you how others perceive you. This can help you ascertain if your public “face” is helpful to you or not.
Each Sign in MC:
Midheaven in Aries/Aries in the 10th:
Aries is ruled by Mars, and the ruler of the 1st House of Your Identity.
Aries in the 10th allows you to make your career and public image your bitch. Your identity directly correlates with your ability to cultivate a successful career. You might wonder who you even are with no workplace recognition. You are a go getter, and a fighter, and have the energy to sustain a career for the long hall. Though you might get bored and rage-quit at any given moment, you will always find your independence out in the world.
Midheaven in Taurus/Taurus in the 10th:
Taurus is ruled by Venus, and the ruler of the 2nd House of Your Value and Money.
Taurus in the 10th gives you a stable career, with the longevity to evolve and still be seen in a good public light. You enjoy money and so you work only to afford those comfortabilities that you so desperately crave. Anything added to that, might seem like an extra bonus, but not something you are willing to work overtime for. You tend towards laziness, and would prefer to work in your pajamas, but can rise to the occasion whenever you are needed.
Midheaven in Gemini/Gemini in the 10th:
Gemini is ruled by Mercury, and the ruler of the 3rd House of Community and Communication.
Gemini in the 10th is all about finding your voice in public–as you probably never had much luck speaking your mind in other aspects of life. You have savvy communication skills in the workplace and can pretty much own anyone publicly with your rhetoric. You tend to be a little bi-polar there, and may find it hard to keep a job for too long. You thrive in fast-paced environments.
Midheaven in Cancer/Cancer in the 10th:
Cancer is ruled by the Moon, and the ruler of the 4th House of Home.
Cancer in the 10th believe that the world is their home, their stage, and the place where they feel the safest. This can actually make your career life unstable, as you put too much emotional energy into a place that really hates emotion and vulnerability. You are very psychic and instinctual and are probably adored by all who work with you–as long as your sad days are kept to a minimum.
Midheaven in Leo/Leo in the 10th:
Leo is ruled by the Sun, and the ruler of the 5th House of Pleasure and Children.
Leo in the 10th enjoys being the dramatic child in all aspects of their career and public life. You probably have very strong ambitions that correlate with your own ego drives, and will do what it takes to get what you want. Katy Perry is my favorite example, with all of her colors and spectacles. You will always treat your coworkers and adoring fans, as best friends. You love drama, and thrive in a place where you can be the center of attention and also have a ton of fun in the process.
Midheaven in Virgo/Virgo in the 10th:
Virgo is ruled by Mercury and the ruler of the 6th House of Routine and Health.
Virgo in the 10th is analytical and persuasive, so it’s no surprise that a lot of you make great lawyers. You like to leave no stone unturned, and are often considered to be very intelligent and scholarly. People you work with enjoy your wit and your attention to detail. The workplace tends to need people like you, and you love to be needed in the workplace.
Midheaven in Libra/Libra in the 10th:
Libra is ruled by Venus, and the ruler of the 7th House of Partnerships.
Libra in the 10th values partnerships, and working with other people–only if everyone is sharing the workload. You will never be okay with being condescended or looked down on at work–as everything needs to be fair. A lot of you like to strike up romantic relationships with superiors. No matter what you choose to do in life, you will definitely be the most attractive and cordial person around.
Midheaven in Scorpio/Scorpio in the 10th:
Scorpio is ruled by Pluto and Mars, and the ruler of the 8th House of Power.
Scorpio in the 10th really want to get ahead in life, and will seemingly do what it takes, but not without a lot of setbacks. There will be a lot of pain and chaos that comes with your career and public image, and you will have to learn how to work through it all, and not around it. You will find your role in the world, and with it will also come the power and control that you crave.
Midheaven in Sagittarius/Sagittarius in the 10th:
Sagittarius is ruled by Jupiter, and the ruler of the 9th House of Knowledge and Belief.
Sagittarius in the 10th want to teach the world everything they know. You have a strong desire to expand not only the minds of others, but your own influence as well. This causes a lot of Sagittarius Midheavens to desire the fame that comes with being seen by many. You tend to have a “lucky” career when you get set on an influential path, and will only keep that luck alive if you play by the rules, and check your vanity at the door.
Midheaven in Capricorn/Capricorn in the 10th:
Capricorn is ruled by Saturn, and the ruler of the 10th House of Career and Public Image.
Capricorn in the 10th want stability as well as power and influence over the masses. With this placement, you really can choose to do anything you want in life, as long as you understand that you won’t be an overnight success. Work and discipline are needed, and a straightforward approach to your career, with no holds barred will get you to your destination.
Midheaven in Aquarius/Aquarius in the 10th:
Aquarius is ruled by Uranus and Saturn, and the ruler of the 11th House of Your Dreams and Purpose.
Aquarius in the 10th become the movers and shakers in the world, as they don’t like things as they are. All it takes is that original idea (and the belief in yourself as a change-maker) and you will be able to rally people together to fight with you and for you. You might start off a little wild seeming, but as you mature everyone starts to realize how truly strong you are, and how admirable your desire is to work for the greater good of men.
Midheaven in Pisces/Pisces in the 10th:
Pisces is ruled by Neptune and Jupiter, and is the ruler of the 12th House of Subconscious and Self Undoing.
Pisces in the 10th are chameleons and can fit into any situation. It might be hard to see where you’re going, but you tend to always get there, swimming along. It’s important for you to be a visionary and creative in your career and you appreciate when people notice this about you. You can have a few public downfalls here and there, as your blind optimism about your public life, can get you into some awful situations. But like Dory said, you “Just keep swimming…”
Planets in MC (cusp of the 10th house):
Sun in the 10th House: Your ego seems to be consistently hurt, and it might seem that making a name for yourself out in the world is the best way to fix it. You are not confident by nature, but you are a hard-worker and very good at completing what you start, and you do believe in your abilities. You work meticulously on your career as if your life depends on it. This does not mean that you crave fame, by any means. You crave stability and respect from people, as you may not have gotten it in your home, unless you were performing or working for your family. Some people with this placement believe that they are inherently lazy, which can be true if aspected by Neptune, but you are never without a purpose in your mind of where you should be. In fact, you are ALWAYS envisioning where you should be, so don’t forget to enjoy the present. The Sun shines the brightest in the 10th, you just might need some time to build up your life, before you get to the recognition you so desire.
Moon in the 10th House: Your mother might have worked a lot, or you saw her as the one who took care of business and paid the bills. Your father was either MIA, or more of the stay-at-home type–yes both extremes can play out here. By putting the moon (or the mother sign) in the father’s domain (the 10th House), you are taking away from the father’s “usual duty” as man or king of the house. Your mother might have also acted like a child in many ways, so instead of having your own emotions nurtured, you were supporting an adult’s emotions–this would cause you to be an emotionally stunted adult. You tend to wear your heart on your sleeve in the workplace and also on social media (Sometimes you just can’t help but publicly air out all your grievances to get the emotional support from the unknown internet masses and then crawl into your little hole, immediately after). People might find you to be dramatic and overly-sensitive, which is great if you are an actor, but not so great for the 9-5 or fast paced environment. The moon is moody, and in the House of your career, will make your career life moody or unstable as well–you will most likely have many different careers in your lifetime. You might also “emotionally rage-quit” or abruptly leave a workplace when you should just stick it out, and see it what comes of it. Learning to balance your career life with your emotional life is an important obstacle that you will eventually overcome.
Mercury in the 10th House: You pretty much will lead the way in any career you choose, with your expansive mind and proficient communication skills. You tend to gravitate toward a profession where you can analyze, organize and speak freely. You take your public image very seriously, but are not always “career oriented.” You spend a lot of time thinking of ways you could be viewed in the world, and that doesn’t always relate to money or what kind of job you’re going to have. Public relations, public speaking, and careers that keep expanding your mind or allow you to work with your hands, will bring you the most happiness.
Venus in the 10th House: Venus in the 10th is blessing on your career and public image. Wherever you work, you will be seen in a good light–people who don’t know you that well, or view you from afar, could believe you to be more attractive and intellectual than you actually are. It’s not hard for you to get promotions or raises without asking, but since you’ve never had to ask, you may not know how to ask when you nedto. You will want a career where you can work in harmony with other people–you tend to despise drama, but will engage in it if someone directly dismisses your abilities. You might meet all your lovers at work, as you can’t help but charm the help (or authority) to the point of hooking up, or dating. A career where you get dirty or are forced to wear an ugly uniform is not for you, and can lower your self-esteem, as you may have been an ugly duckling growing up, and now have a choice in the way you look. Beautifying the world is where you should be, as it’s what you always dreamed about as a child.
Mars in the 10th House: Mars in the 10th will demand authority, even if no one is trying to take it from them. You are in competition at all times for the top spot in your career and will sometimes take it before asking, which can get you in trouble. You consider yourself to be an opportunist, though others may see you as a bully. Having Mars in your 10th could be the result feeling put down by many people as a child, and deciding that you would never allow anyone to do that again, so it can be a little overcompensating. Be careful not to blame the authority figures in your adult life, for hurting you in your childhood. Mars is actually pretty happy in the 10th, when you can learn to tame the beast within, and allow your ambition to come shining through at the right times.
Jupiter in the 10th House: This is not considered the luckiest placement, though it seems that many people with an extreme amount of fame have this: Angelina Jolie, Kim Kardashian, Steve Jobs, etc. Because the 10th house is ruled by Saturn, Jupiter is restricted there, and the kind of fame and career expansion that you will receive, will be negative at times, and not without it’s fair share of lessons. The downside of Jupiter in the 10th obviously being that you are always under a microscope no matter what public position you hold, the upside is that if you live life well and full, you will continue to grow happily in the public eye. You may feel that you are a late bloomer, but if you allow yourself to stick it out and work steadily, there will be no stopping you.
Saturn in the 10th House: Saturn is at home in the 10th house, so it’s not as terrible as you might expect. Slow and steady wins the race here, but not all of you are late bloomers–most of the time you hit your high notes earlier, as dealing with your karma is a necessity, and in the 10th house requires a career to do so. You might have learned hard work since childhood. Since Saturn is the father planet, and the 10th is opposing the 4th house of your mother, you could feel that your father and mother didn’t get along, which could have caused you inner turmoil and depression at a young age–Growing up too soon/getting your child self into adult situations. A lot of Saturn in the 10th natives seem to be overtly sexual, as if they are trying to push past their public restriction, and you know, they probably grew up too soon. Your resilience in whatever career you choose and not avoiding your lessons, no matter how embarrassing they might be, will show your strength and unrivaled ambition.
Uranus in the 10th House: You might get a neck tattoo, because having a normal career doesn’t make any sense to you anyway. You could lie about yourself on social media, because you feel that if you can make someone believe something about you, the power of attraction will make it so. You need to allow yourself to have a career, don’t sell yourself short just because you haven’t found a mold to fit in to. When it’s all said and done, you will find that you’re the one who doesn’t accept the world, not that the world doesn’t accept you. When you see that, you will learn how to make the correct changes to yourself (not just for creative expression, but also personal betterment) and to the world as we know it.
Neptune in the 10th House: Speculation about your career is a common game people play: Did she or did she not sleep with the boss to land her position? There’s a lot about you that people will make up to fill in the blanks, after all the Midheaven is your public image, and Neptune creates illusion. This can also work in your favor, as most people are expecting you to project yourself one particular way, and fail to see your next move completely. In your own career life, you can feel lost and directionless. You believe there is a strong purpose for your life, but you can’t even begin to figure out what it is. If you trust that you have a greater and almost heavenly purpose, instead of a normal and worldly life planned out for you, your life will evolve on it’s own and will eventually allow you to access your greatest dreams.
Pluto in the 10th House: Pluto is the planet of transformation, and so it might feel as though you go through many different careers changes in life, as well as discover new life purposes every time a certain “destiny” is reached. Your public image could go through a severe death, but will get miraculously brought back to life, in a different place and time. Since Pluto is very chaotic and destructive, it also shows where you desire the most control, and so it’s not uncommon for you to hold on to a career for dear life, only to have it ripped from you by the universe. Since the 10th house is cultivated around 7 years old, you could have decided at a young age that you would one day own an empire, and are now waiting impatiently for that time to come where you get to own your power over the masses.
“The IC is said to be the most personal and enigmatic part of the horoscope and the least conscious part.”
“Being one of the angles of the chart, the IC is an extremely powerful point – in fact it can be viewed as the foundation point of the chart.”
The IC is an oft neglected though extremely important point in the horoscope. The term derives from the Latin Imum Coeli and is translated as “the bottom of the sky” or “lowest point in the heavens”. It is the position in space where the meridian intersects the ecliptic in the north, and it falls exactly opposite the Medium Coeli which is usually known as the MC or Midheaven. In most house systems (with the notable exception of the equal house system) this MC/IC axis, forms the zenith and nadir points of the chart, that is the cusps of the tenth and fourth houses respectively.
The fourth house is the part of the chart that is concerned with home and family – not only the immediate family and surroundings in the present life, but also in a broader sense to your place in the overall scheme of things. It denotes the direction from which you are coming – heritage, home environment, cultural traditions and family influences. In the natural wheel, Cancer is on the cusp of this house, and so it is evident that issues concerning emotional wellbeing, comfort, sustenance and protection will be dominant themes here. The sign and house placement of its natural ruler, the Moon, should therefore be carefully examined. Nevertheless, the majority of charts are likely to have a different sign on this cusp.
The MC is where the midday Sun falls and as such is the most public and outwardly observable part of the horoscope. It signifies your public life and community participation, social standing and career as well as material ambitions, life direction, and aspirations. The IC being directly opposite is where the Sun falls at midnight. It is at the very base of the chart, and as such is the most subjective personal point indicating the basic inner disposition – what might be described as the psychological and emotional foundation of your being.
The IC is said to be the most personal and enigmatic part of the horoscope and the least conscious part. It relates to the private and sometimes concealed inner person, the instinctual ways of behaviour, modes of conduct and what makes individuals feel “at home” within themselves and with other people. It also describes the deepest motivations, family conditioning and inheritance, and the innermost feelings. The impulse here is a subtle one. It prompts underlying tendencies and inclinations – many of which may be totally involuntary even though they direct the actions.
It is at the IC that matters regarding personal security and emotional underpinning come together. The sign on the IC is indicative of your attitudes and approach to such matters. It also describes personal needs as regards family, domestic stability, nurturance and emotional safety.
A fire sign at the base of the chart suggests a soul who is basically impassioned, warm-hearted and self-motivated. There is often a deep need for self-determination and for freedom of thought, action and belief. Aries in particular needs independence and the power to initiate. It endows the individual with an adventurous spirit, innate courage and the power of assertiveness, though patience may have to be consciously developed. With Leo, the inherent high spirits can be wisely directed into creative self-expression and into forging loving links with other people. One of the special lessons here is to overcome any self-doubt. The spontaneous and enterprising energy of Sagittarius can give rise to natural optimism and intuitiveness. Souls here can have a deep inner impulse to discover their own truth. At the same time, a tendency towards exaggeration may have to be surmounted.
An earth sign at the base of the chart can occasion a true attunement to the material world. It is a practical and stabilising influence, which encourages a realistic and purposeful perspective. Taurus awards a strong value system and great determination. It also inclines the individual to be security conscious and thus they tend to be responsible with their personal resources. Flexibility is a quality they may have to deliberately cultivate. Virgo is efficient and diligent. There can be a deep urge to put things right and so people with this placement frequently strive for refined and genteel conditions. They may however need to rise above a somewhat over-critical attitude. Capricorn imparts reliability and circumspection. Its gifts include a strong sense of duty and an inner sense of order. The special challenge here is not to give in to a self-repressing or restrictive outlook.
An air sign at the base of the chart implies a soul who is inspired by thoughts and ideas. A rational and logical approach is usually adopted and often speculation is favoured over practice. Gemini is a self-expressive, spontaneous influence. Souls here are impelled to deepen their understanding of themselves and of the world around them. Steps may need to be taken to supplant any inner feelings of restlessness. Libra is particularly responsive to harmony, culture and graciousness. Individuals with this placement tend to be reflective and co-operative but they may also need to guard against too much vacillation. Aquarius can give rise to an idealist, someone who is ready to take an unconventional and individual stance. An objective and reasoned approach can be effected though they may need to ward off detached inflexibility.
A water sign at the base of the chart intimates a person who is very much in tune with the emotional realm. The world of feelings – especially those that evoke a sense of security and safety – is a very important part of these people. When Cancer is here, a feeling of belonging is extremely important to the soul. They are responsive and protective and seek to give and to receive nurturance. A special lesson here is to espouse a balanced state of mind. Scorpio at this point suggests an intense and passionate individual, someone to whom tenacity and endurance are inherent qualities. They are often very intuitive and receptive to their surroundings but they may also need to develop openness. Pisces so placed can be something of a nebulous influence, giving rise to a wanderer, a mystic or a true romantic. Compassion, empathy and a highly developed imagination are usually marked, suggesting for many, over-sensitivity may have to be overcome.
It is important to carefully study any planet(s) closely conjunct the IC, as they subtly shape home and family matters and instinctive emotional responses, again in accord with the nature of the planet involved. To individuals with the Sun here, the home environment will be of prime importance and with the Moon emotional comfort will be sought through their family. Mercury can suggest an interest in lineage or heredity whilst Venus implies a need for beauty and harmony. Mars at the base of the chart indicates an inherent desire for activity, and this needs to be wisely channelled so as to forestall discord or frustration. Jupiter here is a very expansive influence whilst Saturn can lead to a natural sense of duty and responsibility. The outer planets so placed can have a very powerful impact, Uranus bringing a spirit of unconventionality, Neptune one of idealism and Pluto one of intensity.
Being one of the angles of the chart, the IC is an extremely powerful point – in fact it can be viewed as the foundation point of the chart. As such it is particularly sensitive to progressions and transits, the careful study of which will throw light on fundamental inner issues – past, current and potential.
