Western Astrology
Western astrology, as its name refers, is the most popular form of astrology in the Western countries. It is believed that Western astrology evolved in Mesopotamia in the 2nd millennium B.C. In Western astrological system, an astrological natal chart or horoscope is developed on the basis of an individual birth time which exhibits the absolute and relative planetary position of the concerned individual. The calculation is done depending on birth time and birth location. These two aspects receive the most prominence since they represent the position of the Sun on the ground of other signs included in the Zodiac. The Birth Sign usually utilized in the Western astrological system depends on the zodiac of c. 600 B.C. and it does not necessarily imply the assemblage of the sun as positioned in the individual's birthday. Analyzing these planetary positions, astrologers are able to make their conclusions regarding the individual. Additionally, the horoscope is also used to reflect all the relevant details.
Solar System as Illustrated in Western Astrological System
Sol: As illustrated in his great classic, the poet Marcus Manilius described Sun or Sol as benevolent and constructive, while it presiding over the head. It typically symbolizes conscious ego, the self, standards of creative aptitudes, naturalness, wellbeing and vivacity. The Sun is known as the planetary ruler of Leo.
Luna: According to Western astrological system, Luna or Moon represents melancholic solitude, while presiding over the right arm. It influences an individual's emotional level, unaware patterns, bodily and psychological rhythms, memories, and mood status. In addition, it also reflects nurturing abilities, love for home and past relationships and events. The Moon or Luna is known as the planetary ruler of Cancer.
Mercury: Mercury represents vivacity, presiding over the right leg. It is associated with non-persistence, curiousness, rationality, transportation, thinking ability, psychological standards, ability to communicate. The Mercury is known as the planetary ruler of Gemini and Virgo.
Venus: Venus symbolizes love and affection, presiding over the left arm. It represents harmony, aesthetics, love, generosity and compassion. The Venus is known as the planetary ruler of Taurus and Libra.
Mars: Mars symbolizes confidence and aggressive temperament. In addition, it also signifies standards of power, high level of aspiration and strong motivation. It is believed to be presiding over genitals. The Mars is known as the planetary ruler of Scorpio.
Jupiter: Jupiter symbolizes personality and compassion. It is presiding over the stomach. Jupiter influences development, personal growth, prosperity, protection. Jupiter is known as the planetary ruler of Sagittarius. Many astrologers consider Jupiter as the planetary ruler of Pisces as well.
Saturn: Saturn reflects sadness, moroseness and it is presiding over the left leg. It is directly linked to the restriction, hard reality, inflexibility, crystallization, structural limitation. Prior to the discovery of Uranus, Saturn was known as the planetary ruler for both Aquarius and Capricorn. Although some astrologers still consider Saturn as the planetary ruler for both the signs, some only consider it as the planetary ruler of Capricorn.
Uranus: Since Uranus was discovered during 18th centuries, so there is no documentation of astrological interpretation concerning the influence of Uranus in ancient scriptures. It is associated with alternative ideas, inventions, and deep-seated political perspective. Uranus is known as the planetary ruler of Aquarius.
Neptune: Since Neptune was discovered during 18th centuries, so there is no documentation of astrological interpretation concerning the influence of Neptune in ancient scriptures. It is linked up with strong sense of illusion, trickery, religious beliefs, spiritual understanding, psychic ability, altered states of consciousness. Neptune is known as the planetary ruler of Pisces.
Pluto: Pluto is known as the planetary ruler of Scorpio. It influences the behavior related to extreme authoritative power and bribery.