Understanding Each of the Four Elements of the Zodiac |
By Gemma |
Published on Astrology online |
The four elements; Earth, Water, Air and Fire have adorned literature for such a long time while even the ancient Greeks theorised everything was made up of them as far back as around 450 BCE. The concept of the four elements pervades many cultures and religions, while ancient wisdom teaches us how contemplation on these while meditating will bring us closer to nature or closer with God (depending on your religion and philosophy). It’s no surprise that these elements have become such an important part of astrological interpretation and synthesis, as in ancient Greece (and Hellenistic astrology), they have been applied to the astrological elements or triplicities since as far back as the 1st century BCE. There are some mythical and magical qualities to each of these elements, so much so, that their presence within the natal chart can open many doors of wisdom to the onlooker or the astrologer, who understands its ancient language. Let’s have a deeper look into the meanings of each of these elements. Earth The three signs belonging to the earth element are Capricorn, Taurus and Virgo. Like earth itself, which is literally the ground beneath us in meaning and nature, these three signs are generally the least moving or moveable of all the zodiac signs. In spirit they are rooted into the land and as such are known as being ‘down to earth’. Earth is the most solid material of the elements and as such, the main concerns of the earth signs are very much focussed on material things, all that is palpable and all we can firmly rely on. In the same breath, all earth signs need physical security to rely on more than most, which is very important to them. Capricorns are symbolised by the mountain goat and will steadily climb up the steepest of inclines with sure-footedness. The symbol for Taureans is the bull, who is known as the most steady, stubborn sign of the whole zodiac and Virgo is the maiden. Based on Astraea, Virgos are known as fair and innocent. They are a sign of nature in its purest form, good health and well-being. Water The three signs belonging to the water element are Pisces, Cancer and Scorpio. Like water, these three signs are adaptable to their surroundings, taking the shape of that which contains them. They are emotional and impressionable and when they are disturbed or moved, a shift in their current flows throughout the whole of their being that is proportional to the strength of the force which moved them. However, they are held within the physical vessel of their bodies so these shifts happen under the surface. This is why water is known as the psychic and intuitive element of the zodiac. They are very in tune with the emotional currents of their surroundings. Pisces is symbolised by the fishes, which are sensitive and well-adapted to swimming in water. Cancer by the crab, which is the most defensive with its hard shell and sideways walk. Scorpios are the scorpions of the zodiac and just like these chelicerates they have quite a sting in their tail. Air The three signs belonging to the air element are Aquarius, Gemini and Libra. Like the air that is constantly in a state of flux around us, these three signs are almost unceasingly moving. However, air is distinctly representative of the mind and communications so it is in these realms they are the most changeable and active. Air also takes the form of the vessel that contains it and in the same way, these three air signs are mentally very adaptive, which can directly relate to their open-mindedness and acceptance of other people’s ideas and opinions. Aquarius is symbolised by the water bearer, which holds wisdom by containing emotions amongst independent thought and logic. Gemini by the twins, representing two sides of the social personality. Libra are the scales of the zodiac and just like these, Librans are always seeking balance and harmony. Fire The three signs belonging to the fire element are Aries, Leo and Sagittarius. Like the flickering flames of fire, these three signs are almost unceasingly moving too. However, fire is hot and will spread easily over many types of materials. The beauty and movement of fire can be inspiring for the other three elements. Fire flickers and dances and like the fire symbolism, these signs are passionate, creative, unbridled and bold. Although fire creates warmth and joy, it can also become destructive so holding space for this element bears strength and responsibility. Aries is symbolised by the ram, who approaches most things head-first with fervour. Leo by the lion, who is the courageous and bold ‘king of the jungle’. Sagittarius is the mythical centaur of the zodiac. These are skilled archers with an appetite for freedom and a tendency to get into trouble. Esotel talented team of Astrologers are online to answer your questions and give you detailed, honest readings to help you find the answers that you are looking for. For a detailed astrology reading, visit Esotelcard.com |