Do you want to learn to understand the deeper layers of meaning of your own natal chart, composite chart, progressed chart, or any astrological chart you need? The Sabian Symbols, a fascinating and enriching system of symbols in the context of astrology, allow us to explore the multiple dimensions of each degree of the zodiac. With 360 symbols, one for each degree of the zodiacal circle, the Sabian Symbols provide an additional layer of meaning and insight into our astrological readings and interpretations. Where Do These Symbols Come From? The...
Do you want to learn to understand the deeper layers of meaning of your own natal chart, composite chart, progressed chart, or any astrological chart you need?
The Sabian Symbols, a fascinating and enriching system of symbols in the context of astrology, allow us to explore the multiple dimensions of each degree of the zodiac. With 360 symbols, one for each degree of the zodiacal circle, the Sabian Symbols provide an additional layer of meaning and insight into our astrological readings and interpretations.
Where Do These Symbols Come From?
The Sabian Symbols have a fascinating origin that combines elements of mysticism and synchronicity. They were created in 1925 by astrologer Marc Edmund Jones and clairvoyant medium Elsie Wheeler in Balboa Park, San Diego, California. Elsie Wheeler, who lived with a disability due to severe arthritis, possessed an extraordinary ability to visualize images.
The process involved Wheeler describing the visions she received while looking at a series of cards, each corresponding to a degree of the zodiac, that Jones had prepared in advance. While Wheeler described the images she saw, Jones took quick notes, ensuring that none of the cards were identifiable during the session to avoid conscious influence.
Jones believed that Wheeler was tapping into an "ancient mental matrix" linked to the Mesopotamian sages, an occult sect with deep knowledge of astrology and alchemy. This name, "Sabian," is derived from the Mesopotamian sages, who were known for their practice of astrology and talismanic magic. The Sabians were a group that had kept these traditions alive even after the fall of other ancient cultures.
Throughout the process, Jones and Wheeler experienced what Jones described as the presence of a spiritual entity, which he referred to as a "Brother." This process was seen by Jones as a way of receiving guidance from a higher intelligence, and he himself acted as a bridge to maintain this connection throughout the session.
This unique collaboration resulted in a series of 360 symbols, each representing a degree of the zodiac, and has been used as an oracular tool to offer insight and guidance, and is becoming more widely used. Thus, each Sabian symbol is a metaphorical image or scene that is associated with a specific degree of the zodiac, allowing for a richer and more nuanced interpretation of an astrological chart.
And How Are They Used?
Identifying the Corresponding Symbol
To use the Sabian Symbols in astrological practice, we locate the exact degree of a planet or important point in the birth chart and scan the corresponding symbol. The Sabian Symbols are assigned to the degrees of the zodiac so that each symbol corresponds to a complete degree. There are 30 degrees in each zodiac sign, and the numbering of the symbols starts from 1 onwards. It is important to note that if a planet is located in the 0th degree of a sign, the corresponding symbol will be the number 1. This means that any planetary position that falls between 0° 0' 0" and 0° 59' 59" is associated with Sabian Symbol 1. This pattern is repeated for each degree, so that degree 1 correlates with symbol 2, and so on until the 30 degrees of each zodiac sign are completed.
Reason and Intuition
Once we have identified the Sabian Symbol corresponding to a specific degree of the zodiac, it is crucial to interpret its meaning using both our rational mind and our intuitive mind. The rational mind helps us understand the literal symbolism and obvious associations of the symbol, while the intuitive mind allows us to explore the deeper, more subtle meanings that may arise. By combining these two perspectives, we obtain a more holistic and enriching interpretation, allowing us to connect with a broader and more meaningful understanding of the message that the symbol has to offer. This method offers us the opportunity to dive deeper into the ocean of our psyche and destiny, giving us additional perspectives that are, at times, mysteriously aligned with our life and our path.
Synergy Between Symbols
The meaning of a Sabian symbol in an astrological chart is also influenced by the presence of other symbols in the same chart. The interaction between different symbols creates additional layers of meaning, bringing nuances and complementary themes that enrich the interpretation. Although there may be common themes, the unique combination of symbols in a specific chart offers an underlying and particular message that reflects the dynamics and energies present. This interaction allows hidden depths and more complex meanings to be revealed that go beyond the interpretation of each symbol individually. For example, what happens if we have many Sabian bird symbols in a birth chart?
Information on multiple levels
Sabian symbols can be interpreted on different levels of meaning. In some cases, the symbol's message is quite literal and concrete, providing clear guidance about specific situations or events. However, they can also have deeper, more symbolic interpretations. For people who have explored their past lives through regressions or similar therapies, the symbols may resonate with themes and experiences from those previous lives. This suggests that Sabian symbols can touch on aspects of our subconscious and karmic memory, revealing patterns and lessons that transcend our current existence. This ability to operate on multiple levels makes symbols a powerful tool for introspection and personal growth.
Example: Mars in Virgo in Two Different Natal Charts
Let's put this information into practice by analyzing two different birth charts, both with Mars in Virgo in the 5th House, but at different degrees of the zodiac.
First, let's look at the common traits; namely, that they are both in Virgo and in the 5th House. Mars in Virgo is often a very restless and action-oriented energy. This Mars seeks efficiency and precision in everything it does, quickly adapting to circumstances and approaching tasks with a meticulous approach. In addition, Mars in Virgo usually has a good ability to set clear boundaries and make independent decisions, unafraid to say "no" or chart its own path. However, this energy can also lead to impatience and anxiety, as the need to act quickly and achieve concrete results can create internal pressure. In the 5th House, this manifests itself in a proactive and detailed approach to creative pursuits, fun, and child-related matters, reflecting a desire for perfection and effectiveness in these areas of life.
Natal Chart 1, with Mars at 8 degrees of Virgo (green circle).
In the first birth chart, Mars is in the 8th degree of Virgo, corresponding to the Sabian symbol "Virgo 9: A man making a futuristic drawing." This suggests an energy marked by innovation and anticipation. This symbol is associated with the ability to see beyond the conventional, with a visionary mindset that dares to explore the unknown. The person with this position in their birth chart may be constantly pushing the boundaries and taking risks in order to manifest greater efficiency and concreteness of goals.
In the context of the 5th House, which rules areas such as fun, romance, and creativity, this energy can manifest itself in bold and experimental behaviors. The individual might feel an attraction to creative or artistic pursuits that challenge norms, as well as taking unconventional approaches to romance and love life. Furthermore, this inclination toward the futuristic and risk-taking can extend to areas such as gambling or exploring new forms of sexual expression.
Leadership is another key aspect of this symbol, as it implies the ability to guide and anticipate trends, which can lead the person to stand out in their environment. However, this ability to anticipate the future and make decisions based on that vision can sometimes lead to feelings of loneliness, as not everyone can understand or follow the path this person is forging.
Natal Chart 2, with Mars at 26 degrees of Virgo (green circle).
In the second birth chart, Mars is in the 26th degree of Virgo, corresponding to the Sabian symbol Virgo 27: "Grand Ladies Having Tea." This symbol is characterized by a more contained and reflective energy. Unlike Mars in Virgo 9, which tends to be more impulsive and risk-taking in order to achieve efficiency and innovation, Mars in Virgo 27 acts with greater patience and strategy. This Mars values tradition and stability, reflecting a respect for established norms and structures.
Although both share Mars in Virgo's tendency toward efficiency and action, Mars in Virgo 27 is distinguished by its more meticulous and conscientious approach. The influence of the "grand dames" symbol adds a component of social consideration and responsibility, which tempers Mars' natural impulsiveness. This Mars prefers sustained, carefully planned progress, understanding that true achievements take time and dedication. Thus, while Mars in Virgo 9 can push the boundaries with a more visionary approach, Mars in Virgo 27 remains more grounded, balancing its desire for action with a sense of continuity and respect for the past.
In the 5th House, which rules creativity, romance, and play, Mars in Virgo 27 would manifest these qualities in a thoughtful and considered manner. The person with this astrological position might approach his creative pursuits and hobbies with a meticulous and structured approach, valuing tradition and established ways. Rather than impulsively seeking novelty, he would prefer to perfect and maintain already known practices, finding pleasure in refinement and continuous improvement.
In the romantic realm, this Mars would tend to seek stable relationships based on a sense of responsibility and mutual respect. The person is likely to be attracted to rituals and gestures that reinforce the connection and stability in the relationship, showing a tendency to be careful and considerate in their actions.
Furthermore, while this Mars still has the action-oriented energy and drive for efficiency typical of Virgo, it would do so in a more calculated and patient manner. This could manifest itself in a more cautious attitude toward gambling and other forms of entertainment, preferring activities where it can apply its attention to detail and ability to analyze situations. In short, Mars in Virgo 27th House 5 would lead a person to live these aspects of their life with a mix of pragmatism and respect for tradition, balancing the need for action with careful consideration of consequences.
In Summary...
When analyzing the Sabian symbols for Mars at two different degrees of Virgo, it is important to remember that these symbols offer a unique and nuanced perspective on the expression of Mars in the 5th House. While the symbol at Virgo 9 suggests a visionary and risk-taking energy, the symbol at Virgo 27 highlights a more restrained and tradition-respecting approach. However, it is essential to consider that this interpretation is only part of the whole picture.
The interpretation of Mars in a birth chart is not limited to a single Sabian symbol. Other symbols present in the birth chart, as well as the aspects Mars forms with other planets, also play a crucial role in defining its influence and nuances. These additional factors can amplify, moderate, or complexify the tendencies indicated by the specific Sabian symbol, bringing an additional layer of depth and context to the interpretation. Therefore, although we have explored the Sabian symbols for Mars in Virgo separately for the purposes of explanation, a complete understanding of the birth chart requires a comprehensive assessment of all the astrological elements present and how they interact with each other.
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2 comments
Pía muy interesante, si he visto tus publicaciones con los símbolos sabianos, en las sesiones que hemos tenido los has usado? Es que no los mencionas por eso mi duda
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La Casa 8 Astrología:
¡Hola Ricardo! Sí, hago sesiones de símbolos sabianos hace mucho tiempo (están en mi catálogo de lecturas disponibles). Lo que pasa es que tienen tanta información que prefiero hacer sesiones dedicadas exclusivamente a eso; porque de lo contrario si en una sesión de revolución de un planeta por ejemplo, además de ver los planetas en sí revisáramos los símbolos sabianos, no podríamos ver ni revolución ni símbolos en profundidad.
Qué interesante conocer el origen de estos símbolos 👏🏻
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La Casa 8 Astrología:
¡Son maravillosos! Me alegro que te gusten.