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LEARN | ZODIAC SIGNS | AQUARIUS

AQUAR IUS ZODI AC SIGN: CH AR ACTER ISTICS,

DATES, & MOR E

By Debbie Stapleton

VIRGO  Aquarius Traits & Overview

AQUARIUS DATES: January 21 – February 18

SYMBOL: The Water-Bearer
MODE + ELEMENT: Fixed Air
RULING PLANET: Saturn & Uranus
HOUSE: Eleventh
 HOUSE: Eleventh
MANTRA: I Know

BODY PARTS: The Shins

COLORS: Silver & Blue
TAROT CARD: The Star

Aquarius is the eleventh sign of the zodiac, and Aquarians are the perfect representatives
for the Age of Aquarius. Those born under this horoscope sign have the social conscience
needed to carry us into the new millennium. Those of the Aquarius zodiac sign are
humanitarian, philanthropic, and keenly interested in making the world a better place.
Along those lines, they’d like to make the world work better, which is why they focus
much of their energy on our social institutions and how they work (or don’t work).

Aquarians are visionaries, progressive souls who love to spend time thinking about how
things can be better. They are also quick to engage others in this process, which is why
they have so many friends and acquaintances. Making the world a better place is a
collaborative effort for Aquarians.

READ TODAY’S AQUARIUS HOROSCOPE 

Aquarius Symbolism + Myth

The constellation of Aquarius, the Water-Bearer, is one of the oldest of our current
zodiac. Harking back to Babylonian times, the Aquarius constellation was associated with
the protective god Ea, who carried an overflowing vase of water.

The Egyptians associated Aquarius with the flooding of the Nile, which was believed to
occur when the Water-Bearer dipped his pitcher into the great river. The swelling of the
Nile then corresponded to the commencement of Spring, a fertile time of growth after the
flood of water to the region.

In Greek mythology, Aquarius was connected to the mythological youth Ganymede, who
was the son of Tros, the Trojan king. Ganymede’s claim to fame came when Zeus
transported him to Mount Olympus, to be the cupbearer of the gods.

Aquarius Element, Mode, and Season

Winter
In the western tropical zodiac, Aquarius season begins on January 21, commencing the
middle and heart of Winter in the Northern Hemisphere. This is the time of year when the
sun, Leo’s planetary ruler, is at its lowest strength, heat, and light. This may lend cool and

remote qualities to the Aquarian archetype, which tends to be more thoughtful and
inventive during the cold, insular season.

Fixed Mode
Aquarius is the last of the four fixed signs of the zodiac, who all hold an elemental energy
of endurance and stability in the middle phase of the four seasons. Aquarius begins the
middle of winter, when the season is most “fixed” and established, lending to the
tenacious, immovable, and somewhat stubborn tendencies of the formidable Aquarian
intellect.

Air Element
Aquarius’ element is air, a light, dispersive element, thought by ancient astrologers to be
an expression of matter that represents formlessness and dissolution. Aquarius’ affinity
for innovation, invention, and intellectual focus is akin to the active, flowing air element.

Aquarius Planetary Rulership

Domicile of Saturn
In classical astrology, Saturn was assigned rulership of both Aquarius and Capricorn.
Aquarius was thought to be the diurnal/day home of Saturn, an intellectual air sign that
allows Saturn to be as scrutinizing, discerning, and objective of a planetary force as it
likes to be when placed there.

Those born with Saturn in Aquarius will potentially have tremendous powers of
intellectual discipline that they can apply well to study, administration, or in taking roles
of social and judicial authority. When it comes to Saturinan matters of objectivity,
perseverance, and patience, those born with the stern teacher in its diurnal domicile may
take to these qualities naturally.

Detriment of the sun

Aquarius is in polarity with the fixed fire sign Leo. Ruled by the sun, Leo likes to radiate,
conquer, and perform, where Aquarius, classically ruled by Saturn, likes to test, judge,
and set boundaries. The sun, when in the opposite sign of his preferred home, is said to be
in detriment, or at a sort of disadvantage in the cool and remote sign of Aquarius. Imagine
the sun, the luminary of expression and confidence, tempered and contained in the world
of time, trials, and discipline.

Aquarius tends to be focused on rationality and objectivity, qualities that are developed
with wisdom, restraint, and eldership, when the sun may more easily shine in the world
of drama, pride, and passion. This proud, vital star would have to make do in Aquarius and
compensate, presenting in those born with the sun in the Water-Bearer’s sign as having a
more detached, and somewhat aloof presence. They may use their vitality and attention
for more intellectual pursuits, and though may be unique and innovative, they may not
seek a performative life in the theatrical sense.

Modern Ruler: Uranus

Uranus was discovered in 1781 by William Herchel, an astronomer who built his own
telescope. This quality of discovery and inventiveness in Uranus’ founder lends itself to
the Aquarian attributes of innovation, adaptation, and unconventionality.

It is also interesting to note that at the time of Uranus’ discovery, the American
Revolution was being waged, and the French Revolution would ensue within the years to
come. These synchronicities inspired modern astrologers to give Uranus revolutionary
characteristics since it appeared during these new political and societal upheavals. To the
astrologers of the early modern period, this history of Uranus’ discovery felt akin to
Aquarius’ nature, and so Uranus was assigned as the eccentric sub-ruler to the objective
Water-Bearer.

A ari s Ho se R lership
Aquarius House Rulership

The eleventh house

In the modern astrology system of the Twelve Letter Alphabet, each zodiac sign rules one
of the twelve houses in the birth chart. This innovation was created by psychological
astrologers to match sign affinities to related house topics.

Aquarius was assigned the eleventh house of friends, alliances, and gifts since Aquarius’
social and intellectual pursuits are aligned with the concerns of this house. Since Uranus
had been named a modern sub-ruler for Aquarius, it invites an offbeat Uranian sub-
signature to the eleventh house.

The twelfth house

In classical astrology, Aquarius’ planetary ruler Saturn, was said to find its “joy” in the
twelfth house of solitude, confinement, and isolation in the birth chart. The twelfth house
was also called the house of “bad spirit” by classical astrologers, meaning it was
connected to anxieties and shadowy themes that cause us some degree of mental anguish.
This is related to Saturn classically being the planet responsible for our greatest tests and
trials, that come about through feeling burdened with heavy responsibilities and
concerns.

As a result, Saturn is able to “joyfully” express its more limiting and uncomfortable
offerings when placed here. The good news about this placement in the birth chart is that
it can be connected with a theme of overcoming one’s enemies, and though difficult, can
give the native great powers of perseverance through life’s hardest passages in the end.

Aquarius Characteristics
Personality
Aquarius’ archetypal traits are derived from its active, masculine, or yang qualities,
making this sign oriented toward engagement with the outer world. Alive in both an
Aquarian woman or Aquarian man, those born with the Water-Bearer as their rising, sun,
or moon sign have a clear objective, yet intelligent and inventive energy in their core
personality, like the icy heart of winter.

As a fixed sign, The Water-Bearer holds the qualities of being a sustainer, making those
with Aquarius prominent in their charts great at dedicating themselves to projects, and
tenaciously sticking to their social principals. Ruled by Saturn, Aquarians can be thought
of as the “reformers” of the zodiac that challenge and test the societal conventions we
of as the reformers of the zodiac that challenge and test the societal conventions we
have built to see if they are still relevant and inclusive.

Strengths
The primary Aquarian strengths can be found in their intelligence and their ability to not
be mired in subjectivity that could potentially block maintaining a fresh perspective.
Those under this sign have an affinity for abstract thought that allows them to examine
problems and innovate new solutions. Though they are conversational and social, they
can operate in their communities in an observant and impartial way, making them
typically good judges of character, and dependable when rationality is needed.

Aquarians are known for their cleverness and dry wit, which may be surprising in spite of
their cool and collected exterior. The sign of the Water-Bearer produces naturally curious
and inquisitive people who love to take apart objects, as well as personalities, to see what
makes them tick. Perhaps a product of sober and determined Saturn, their planetary ruler,
Aquarians are often not afraid to take intellectual, or creative risks, or to speak the sober
but unpopular opinion. “Nothing lost, nothing gained” could be another Water-Bearer
motto.

The Aquarian archetype is naturally radical, and those with this sign prominent in their
charts often feel they don’t fit in with mainstream society, and often, they don’t want to
anyway! Usually, the world finds out later that their offbeat views and inventions were
merely ahead of their time. It’s the rest of us who may need to try and keep up with our
Aquarian inventors and thought leaders. Very often, they see the new frontier on the
horizon, long before anyone else has a clue.

Weaknesses
Some sources of weakness for Aquarius are rooted in their great strengths. Their strong
mental capacities can lead them to be overly intellectual in life, making them seem cold,
distant, or unfeeling. They may encounter situations that they can’t think their way out
of, which could be perplexing for them.

The Water-Bearer’s capacity for abstract thought may have them reducing life to a series
of puzzles to be solved, becoming so theoretical in their ideas that they become hard to
relate to. Though typically good judges of character, this is a strength that can get taken
too far when these folks get so stuck on the principle of another’s mistake that they judge
them too harshly; sometimes even losing sight of their humanity.

Aquarians can become so “fixed” on their principles, that they hold others to higher
standards than they could possibly attain. This may lead them to set many strict social
boundaries and even holding grudges, possibly alienating others and isolating
h l
themselves.

Clever, witty, and psychologically focused, Aquarians may use humor to toy with others
they deem to be intellectually inferior to them. Though curious, this sign should guard
against becoming nosy, and similar to their Gemini counterparts, may need to curb a
habit of being gossipy. Though Aquarius may be cool and measured in their own feelings,
they could forget what could be hurtful to others.

Lastly, the Aquarian “contrarian” nature is best channeled into important and useful
causes to guard against a habit of being rebellious and disruptive just for the sake of it.
This can be hurtful and divisive if not well-considered.

Aquarian children may grow up with a wounding around being an outsider. They will be
well-nurtured by being accepted and embraced for their different nature, as well as
allowed to experiment and express themselves in their own unique way.

Aquarius Life Purpose and Career

Mantra and Purpose
The voice of invention, revolution, and abstraction comes forward in the Aquarius
mantra: I know. The Water-Bearer’s sense of purpose is all about exploring new social,
political, and technological frontiers. Aquarians are the “reformers,” challenging
conventions and inspiring change in our world.
conventions and inspiring change in our world.

We all have Aquarius somewhere in our birth chart, so we can look to the house that the
Water-Bearer rules to find the specific area of our life we approach in an offbeat,
intellectual, and even radical way; or where we need to call in the Water-Bearer’s
inquisitive energy for mastery.

Aquarian people tend to be drawn to any pursuit where they can do both—deconstruct
and reconstruct—new systems of thought, social justice, and awareness. The worlds of
science, research, education, and even psychology provide appropriate outlets for the
Aquarian mind.

Aquarius at Work
Aquarius’ observant and inquisitive nature makes them uniquely suited for professions
where they are able to explore, experiment, and innovate, following their theories and
ideas toward breakthroughs. Their careers need to have some dynamic of invention and
discovery to be fulfilling.

Their mind will likely be their strong suit, so jobs, where their intellect is not challenged
or is underutilized, would not only be boring to them but a waste of their potential. This
could manifest in many professions, but likely will not be found in salesmen or service-
type roles, where they may have to project a persona that they are not feeling.

Any job that has outdated, arbitrary rules will feel like a prison, so an ideal Aquarian
career needs to be progressive in some way. Like all the air signs, Aquarius needs novelty,
activity, movement, and space, and will not be content for long in the same location,
unless of course, that location is a laboratory of some kind with much to study and
discover!

Aquarius’ classical ruler Saturn may lead Aquarians toward careers in social reform and
justice. They may make excellent social workers, not only on the front line but in
administrative roles as well. Those of this sign may, however, try to change the system
and may not be content to work with a social system that does not serve everyone.

With a great love for knowledge, and a sociable, talkative nature, those born under the
Water-Bearer’s sign would make excellent teachers and educators. Being keenly
interested in the evolution of humanity, they may be drawn to degrees in political science,
gender studies, and even history.

The Water-Bearer’s keen powers of concentration could make them suited for research in
a field that they find progressive and engaging. Fulfilling and fascinating to them, it
would give them staying power to see a long-term project through, and may even
champion an unusual study when others may not yet see its value.

Science, with its many facets, suits Aquarians of all kinds. With their affinity for abstract
thought, those under this sign may pursue physics, where they can explore quantum
theories, and the very nature of the universe, to their endless delight.

The scientific route may lead the Aquarian to the ultimate expression for their “out there”
characters, into careers in space exploration. In addition to being an astronaut, work in
the space sector requires engineering skills of all kinds, which could potentially be suited
to our Water-Bearer friends. Aerospace, chemical, computer, electrical, mechanical and
software engineering could all appeal to the math and analysis-inclined Aquarian.

Naturally inquisitive, and interested in exploring the powers of the mind, Aquarians can
be well suited to psychology. Their clear and rational characters may be helpful in calmly
exploring mental and emotional constructs with those that are in need of support.

Aquarius’ radical, rebellious, and inventive nature must not be overlooked when we
consider the art and entertainment world. The Water-Bearer’s offbeat and forward-
thinking character could make them suited for sound design, as well as sound
engineering. They may be found among our greatest electronic and “techno” musicians
and performers.

Aquarius Compatibility
When exploring overall compatibility in astrology, it’s important to take more than the
sun sign into consideration, as the rising sign, moon, and other planetary cross-
connections will tell the whole story in relationships. That being said, Aquarius natives
will tend to blend best with fire signs and air signs; and may need to work harder on
relationships with water signs and earth signs.

Fire signs
Aquarius will typically find great affinity with fire signs, as they will understand each
other’s active, spontaneous nature. Aries and Sagittarius are individualistic enough to not
be put off by Aquarius’ cool and remote nature.

Sagittarius, especially, will enjoy Aquarius’ socially challenging and radical ways, and
they will stoke each other’s tendencies to be unconventional.

Aquarius brings discernment, thoughtfulness, and objectivity to proud solar-ruled Leo,

and they potentially have an opposites attract connection together that can be either
magnetic or polarizing.

Air signs
Air signs

Air signs are a natural fit for Aquarius, as they share the same elemental expression.
Aquarius and Gemini will enjoy conversing endlessly, sharing ideas in a harmonious,
although largely intellectual relationship.

Aquarius and Libra will enjoy sharing ideas on issues of social justice and progressive
thought. Due to its Saturnian influence, Aquarius may at times be more cool and remote
and will have to remember to show affection to romantic Libra.

Aquarius with Aquarius could be a good match, in that they may feel they have finally met
someone from their own galaxy, so to speak. They will enjoy debating, and innovating
together, and may have an unconventional partnership.

Water Signs
Water signs bring vulnerability and emotional intelligence to help curious and abstract
Aquarius to tap into their deeper wells of feeling.

Cancer will be very good at nurturing Aquarius, which they will likely need, but Cancer’s
need for emotive connection and expression may feel foreign and overwhelming to
rational Aquarius.

Pisces broadens Aquarius’ receptive capacities by bringing spiritual and philosophical

awareness to their lives. Pisces, however, may be too private and sensitive to fully
appreciate Aquarius’ radical and contrarian nature.

Mars-ruled Scorpio can bring sexual magnetism to a relationship with Aquarius, but the
two may share very little in common in the end. Scorpio’s jealous tendencies are as deeply
rooted as Aquarius’ judgmental ones, and so they may stubbornly hold their own
elemental ground and have conflicts often.

Earth signs
Though earth signs can potentially stabilize and ground Aquarius’ dispersive and unusual
energies, they may be the hardest for those born under the sign of the Water-Bearer to
relate to.

Capricorn, the authoritative cardinal earth sign, shares Saturnian rulership with
Aquarius, so there may be some common ground. Capricorn, however, tends to be
practical and honors tradition, where Aquarius is innately unconventional, driving them
to disagree on their basic values.

Taurus, although dependable and loving, may be a bit too rooted to roll with Aquarius’
“out there” ways. Both are in fixed signs, and much like the dynamic between Aquarius
dS i th ill b t bb t d ff b t th W t B d th B ll
and Scorpio, there will be stubborn stand-offs between the Water-Bearer and the Bull.

Aquarius and Virgo may blend with their analytical natures; however, Aquarius may be
surrounded by gadgets and clutter, which would confound and annoy practical Virgo.
Virgo likes to be useful, but Aquarius always questions practicality, making this too much
of an odd pairing to make it last.

Aquarius Health
Constitution
In classical astrological medicine, there were four temperaments that were connected to
four vital fluids and four essential constitution types. Being ruled by Saturn, Aquarius is
associated with the sanguine temperament, which was thought to be hot and moist and
connected to the blood.

The sanguine constitution was considered to be naturally healthy and resilient, being
connected to the youthful phase of life, and the spring season. Sanguine folks typically
have a cheery disposition, lean body shapes, and are naturally energetic. With Saturn’s
influence here, however, Water-Bearer may need to guard against a tendency towards
melancholy and will need to care for their bones and joints.

Apart from Aquarian-type imbalances related to dehydration, or depleted energy from

overwork, this constitution type may not experience many health challenges until their
later years. At this time, issues related to blood pressure or blood stagnation may arise
when the naturally high sanguine metabolism starts to slow down.

Body Parts
In classical astrological medicine, the entire zodiac was mapped out on the human body,
with Aquarius ruling over the shins, calves, and ankles. As a result, those born with
Aquarius prominent in their birth charts may have long legs, narrow shins, and ankles
that are prone to rolling or sprains.

Those native to this sign will need to stay hydrated and keep their bodies warm and
circulating. Being born in the heart of winter may cool their sanguine temperaments
down somewhat, making them prone to stiffness and chilliness.

Herbal Allies
Comfrey, also known as “boneset” or “knit bone,” grows in damp, grassy places. It is rich
in vitamin C and calcium, has anti-inflammatory properties, and is a traditional herbal
remedy used to treat bruises, sprains, and bone fractures.
Its mineral-rich qualities can internally “knit” bones and connective tissues back
together. It contains allantoin, which when used topically can help heal wounds. An
ointment or compress made from comfrey can also soothe joint and arthritis pain; and
can be an asset to the sensitive shins and ankles of Water-Bearers.

Horsetail is a prime Saturnian plant rich in minerals and vitamins, including vitamins B,
C, E, K, potassium, calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, copper, and silica. As a result, it is
excellent for building strong bones, teeth, hair, nails, and skin.

Horsetail tea can help improve bone density in those suffering from osteoporosis and can
clear water retention, urinary tract infections, and kidney and bladder stones. Horsetail
itself is so strong and fibrous, it was used to polish metal in ancient times.

Rosemary is a remedial plant for Aquarius, with its solar properties offering the medicine
of “antipathy” for the effects of the sun being in its detriment or exile. It is moderately
hot and dry and grows in dry sunny environments that would be the opposite condition to
Aquarius’ winter realm.

Rosemary brings heat and warmth to the head, and its stimulating herbal fragrance helps
to improve mental clarity and memory retention for intellectually active Aquarians. It is
astringent and a known carminative, meaning it helps to relieve gasses and promote
digestion. Rosemary oil—when diluted in a light carrier oil—is excellent for massage. Its
relaxing solar warmth is very soothing to tight, tired Aquarian calves and shins.

Esoteric Aquarius
The Three Decans of Aquarius
Each of the twelve zodiac signs represents a thirty-degree slice of a 360-degree band of
constellations, circling the earth. The thirty degrees of each sign can be further
subdivided into three ten-degree decans, or faces, each with its own planetary sub-ruler
placed around the zodiac in Chaldean order.

These faces can be used for timing magical rituals when seeking to evoke and harness
Saturn’s planetary power. In studying the Aquarius personality, we can use the faces of
Aquarius to fine-tune the flavor and nuance of planets or points placed within these
decanic degrees.

First Decan of Aquarius: Venus

Degrees 0 through 9 of Aquarius are ruled by Venus, making those with planets in the first
decan potentially more artistic and relational than the typical cool Aquarian archetype.
Those born with planets or points here may be more creative, romantic, and performative
of all the Water-Bearers.

Second Decan of Aquarius: Mercury

Degrees 10 through 19 of Aquarius are ruled by Mercury. This face indicates very strong
analytical and intellectual tendencies in those with prominent placements here. We may
see the scientists, inventors, and engineers among these natives. We also may see those
with more active literary and conversational leanings.

Third Decan of Aquarius: Moon

Degrees 20 through 29 of Aquarius are ruled by the nurturing and mysterious moon. The
moon’s influence here amplifies the emotions somewhat, making these folks more
sensitive, receptive, and even psychic. It could even take form in those born with
placements in the third decan as being more remote and protective of their emotions.

Aquarius Tarot Cards

Major Arcana: The Star
The Tarot card that correlates to Aquarius is number 17: The Star. This card depicts an
angelic Water-Bearer pouring out their cisterns below a starry night sky. The Water-
Bearer has one foot in the water, representing intuition, while one foot is planted on the
earth, rooting the figure to the material realm. One cistern empties into a mysterious
sparkling pool, with the other quenching the dry soil.

This duality is a balance between manifestation, and the well of the soul, all under the
guidance of the divine realm. The figure represents the querent after a time of upheaval,
finding their essence of expression and at last understanding what form it needs to take
to be alive in the world. It helps us to meditate on our unique gifts and creative forces that
need to come from the depths of knowing within us all before they can be “poured out” in
the most nourishing and balanced way.

Minor Arcana
5,6, and 7 of Swords

In the Minor Arcana of the Tarot, the Suit of Swords is associated with the element of air.
In the Minor Arcana of the Tarot, the Suit of Swords is associated with the element of air.
Here, we see the three decans of Aquarius assigned to the 5, 6, and 7 of Swords, cards

associated with the awareness that comes with cultivating and sustaining intellectual
clarity. These cards may speak to times of mental wounding and overcoming self-doubt
in the midst of intense spiritual and energetic evolution.

5 of Swords: Venus in Aquarius

The 5 of Swords corresponds to the first decan or face of Aquarius. It carries the sub-
signature of Venus and was referred to in the Book of Thoth as the card of “Defeat.” This
card appears when we may have achieved an intellectual or mental victory, but we
ourselves are somewhat defeated, having lost our ability to be emotional and relational.

The “Defeat” card also warns that “treachery also may be implied.” (Book of Thoth)

6 of Swords: Mercury in Aquarius

The 6 of Swords corresponds to the second decan or face of Aquarius. It carries the sub-
signature of Mercury and was referred to in the Book of Thoth as the card of “Science.”
This card appears when we are about to embark on a passage to escape old patterns of
thought, but the somber mood of the characters depicted hints that anxiety and
uncertainty lingers.

The “Science” card shows the “perfect balance of all mental and moral faculties, hardly
won, and almost impossible to hold in an ever-changing world.” (Book of Thoth)

7 of Swords: Moon in Aquarius

The 7 of Swords corresponds to the third decan or face of Aquarius. It carries the sub-
signature of the moon and was referred to in the Book of Thoth as the card of “Futility.”
This dynamic card appears when we have taken on more than we can mentally and
energetically handle. It shows some trickery, or underhandedness, perhaps acting on
impulse with a lack of emotional balance.

The “Futility” card represents “intellectual wreckage” and warns the “results may be
more disastrous than ever.” (Book of Thoth)

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