Trines, Conjunctions and Sextiles
Unlike what most people think, astrology is not just about sun signs. There are several other things involved in astrology, such as birth charts, effects of planets, the aspects etc that are necessary to study a person's horoscope completely. In this article, I will be discussing the 'aspects' such as trines, conjunctions and sextiles. Though this part may not make sense to many people, if you have done a basic study of astrology, you will be able to understand better.
An aspect in astrology, is the exact distance between two points in a horoscope. More specifically, it gives the geometric relationship between two planets in your birth chart (Yes!! It starts frying your brains here). An aspect is important for analyzing a horoscope as it gives the combined effect of two planets on the horoscope. There are two categories into which the aspects are divided: harmonious or tense, and major or minor. There are seven aspects that fall into these categories. They are square, sextile, conjunction, trine, semi-sextile, quinocuncx and opposition. Without getting into the details of the minor aspects, let us just stick the major aspects, which are the trines, conjunctions, sextiles, squares and opposition.
Trine
A trine occurs when the two planets in the chart are at an angle of 120 degrees to each other. A trine is considered the most powerful harmonious aspect. It brings the two planets together in an easy combination and brings comfort to this combination. It also does much to improve any adverse aspect. A trine between the sun and moon is considered the most fortunate than any other aspect.
Conjunction
A conjunction is formed when two planets exist at approximately same degree of the same sign or at an orb with not more than 8 degrees. In very simple terms, the conjunction of two planets exert a combined energy. Most times, this energy is beneficial or even produce good effects. Conjunction of the ruling planets of the 1, 4, 7 and 10th house is supposed to be beneficial. Conjunction of the lords of 5th and 9th house are also good irrespective of their location. A moon-Venus conjunction is considered beneficial while Mars-Saturn conjunction is stressful.
To know more about the ruling planets of different houses, check out my other posts
http://karthikkash.hubpages.com/hub/The-12-Houses-of-Birth-Chart-Part-1
and
http://karthikkash.hubpages.com/hub/The-12-Houses-of-Birth-Chart-Part-2
Sextile
A sextile occurs when two planets are 60 degrees apart. This is a strong harmonious aspect and indicates cooperation and opportunity between the planets. This aspect reinforces the weak points in life. It opens doors for new opportunities and Initiatives may be taken during a sextile. The aspect is slightly less powerful than a trine.
Square
A square occurs when two planets at a 90 degree separation. This is a stressful aspect as it causes friction and hurdles. It reveals the obstacles, tensions and challenges in your life. However, there is hidden opportunity in this as it helps us learn and grow. This is slightly less powerful than opposition, but critical nonetheless. It tends to create prejudiced, disturbed and adverse circumstances. It is a separative aspect that can turn the tide of fortune. At the same time, it also builds your character.
Opposition
An opposition occurs when two planets are 180 degrees apart. As guessed, it is the most stressful aspect of the chart where obstacles have to be resolved. It is a malefic effect of perfect balance and indicates changes in circumstances. Opposition may manifest in the form of conflict, confrontations or mood swings. However, it again opens up opportunities. Once the conflict is resolved, growth and development is achieved.
Understanding these trines, conjunctions and sextiles may take some time, especially if you are a beginner. But understanding these will help you understand yourself better and help in your growth.
