On Delineation of the Individual Aspects
by Gregory J. de Montfort
September 1999Aspects are one of the most important factors in assessing the Gestalt of any chart and many of us (whether through fear of the sheer volume, or out of respect for tradition) seem to be content with analysing but a few. Commonly, those of the major and minor Ptolemaic and Keplerian order, which ordinarily amounts from some 6 to 9 aspects interpreted with the simple "good, bad, indifferent" trichotomy.
As we are charting the cyclic, unfolding process of the never ending orbits of the celestial bodies, it seems to me as a modern astrologer, that this view may be inadequate, especially when we consider it is the unfolding of human life that we are usually relating the chart to.
And we modern humans are pretty complex creatures when it comes down to it.
For a general overview, (and for those just beginning their journey into astrology) I believe that it is fine to look at only the major and minor ‘traditional’ set of aspects. But if our client has specific problems or questions, I feel that it is only fair out of respect for the client and our art that we put that little extra effort in and do as much as we can.
The simplistic ‘8x3’ approach to aspects has given way in recent years to attempts to understand the unique nature of each "harmonic" (aspect), and you will be surprised at the additional insight and detail that analysis of these ‘supplementary’ aspects can bring to your interpretation.
Before going further into the particulars, let’s look at the Sun / Moon phase relationship to put this way of viewing the aspects into some form of coherent perspective, as the cyclic relationship of any two planets may be considered to follow this ‘model’.
The main phases obvious to us when we look up into the night sky are the Full Moon, Last Quarter, New Moon (which we can’t see, but know it’s there), the First Quarter, and back to Full Moon. This of course equates to the Opposition or 180 degrees, Waning Square or 270 degrees, Conjunction or 0/360 degrees, Waxing Square or 90 degrees and back to the Opposition. So we have described the full circle of 360 degrees by only 4 aspects – a square within the circle. –Symbolic in itself don’t you think?
But as we know, there are many more angular relationships within our 360 degrees than these 4! All the other aspects fall within our 360 degree circle of cycles.
If we consider the ‘harmonic’ correspondences of the aspects, then the Opposition is the 2nd harmonic; the Square the 4th harmonic and the Conjunction the 1st and so on. Harmonic simply refers to the integer division of the 360 degrees circle. We call the divisions of our circle "harmonics" as the word comes from the study of sounds or other vibrations, and in principle is an artifact of Platonic philosophy and the "Music of the Spheres", so I think it quite apt. (In recent years, astrologers have devised a ‘new’ method of casting the chart, which has become known as a harmonic chart –elaborated by John Addey [1920-1982]).
To encompass the ‘traditional’ aspects and incorporate the ‘modern’ aspects for a complete harmonic series or set, we need to look at all the angles arrived at by division of the 360 degree circle by each integer from 1 through twelve.
Arbitrarily, we could go on ad infinitum, but I believe this series of 12 to correlate to the twelve zodiacal signs and to be adequate to our purpose of incorporating all areas of modern life complexity.
Below is the full series of aspects we arrive at from conjunction through to opposition using our 1 through 12 division along with the generally used orbs.
|
No |
NAME |
ANGULAR |
DIVISION BY |
ORB |
||||
|
1 |
Conjunction |
0 degrees |
1 |
8 degrees |
||||
|
2 |
Virgintile |
18 degrees |
10 |
1 degree |
||||
|
3 |
Semi-Sextile |
30 degrees |
12 |
2 degrees |
||||
|
4 |
Undecile |
32.7 degrees |
11 |
1 degree |
||||
|
5 |
Decile |
36 degrees |
10 |
1 degree |
||||
|
6 |
Novile |
40 degrees |
9 |
1 degree |
||||
|
7 |
Semi-Square |
45 degrees |
8 |
3 degrees |
||||
|
8 |
Septile |
51.43 degrees |
7 |
1.5 degrees |
||||
|
9 |
Sextile |
60 degrees |
6 |
5 degrees |
||||
|
10 |
Biundecile |
65.5 degrees |
11 |
1 degree |
||||
|
11 |
Quintile |
72 degrees |
5 |
2 degrees |
||||
|
12 |
Binovile |
80 degrees |
9 |
1 degree |
||||
|
13 |
Square |
90 degrees |
4 |
8 degrees |
||||
|
14 |
Triundecile |
98.2 degrees |
11 |
1 degree |
||||
|
15 |
Biseptile |
102.86 degrees |
7 |
1 degree |
||||
|
16 |
Trine |
120 degrees |
3 |
8 degrees |
||||
|
17 |
Quadraundecile |
130.9 degrees |
11 |
1 degree |
||||
|
18 |
Sesqui-quadrate |
135 degrees |
8 |
3 degrees |
||||
|
19 |
Biquintile |
144 degrees |
5 |
2 degrees |
||||
|
20 |
Quincunx |
150 degrees |
12 |
3 degrees |
||||
|
21 |
Triseptile |
154.29 degrees |
7 |
1 degree |
||||
|
22 |
Quadranovile |
160 degrees |
9 |
1 degree |
||||
|
23 |
Quintundecile |
163.6 degrees |
11 |
1 degree |
||||
|
24 |
Opposition |
180 degrees |
2 |
8 degrees |
||||
As you can see we arrive at 3 times the number of possible aspects to interpret, so is this ‘extra’ work why many of us persist in constricting ourselves and the capacity of our art to the so called traditional set of aspects?
In ‘restoring’ the aspects to the original full set we must obviously take into account the cyclic nature of the process of the planetary cycles. (ie: the waxing and waning cycles).
So when we look at transits of planets in the sky to planets in a natal chart, the applying aspect is considered most powerful. Events almost always seem to culminate as the aspect is applying. During the separation phase, we experience the aftermath, as it were.
In natal charts, an applying aspect is often considered to be more powerful than a separating aspect. Some astrologers use different orbs for the two types of aspect for this reason.
We must also take into account retrograde motion. If a planet is in retrograde apparent motion, it can be moving towards a trine (i.e., applying to a trine) with a planet that is 125 degrees behind it in the zodiac. You must also check that a retrograde planet actually makes the exact aspect. If it does its station and turns direct before it forms the aspect, then the effect will be greatly weakened.
|
Name |
Abbrev. |
Angle |
Orb |
Glyph |
Description of Effect |
|
Conjunct |
(Con) |
0.00 |
8º |
a |
The area ruled by the sign and house takes on the nature of both planets. The planets unite in action, losing their individual identities and merge into one. Dynamic in nature- the conjunction may manifest physically or psychologically in a manner not obvious to the Native, but definitely so to those around him. Conjunct planets are at the alpha omega point where cycles begin and end. This creates urgency, emphasis, unity and fusion. It's a very subjective state of energy, strong-headed and one-tracked. Impulses will be acted out. We're looking at an inauguration, a blending, a start. This is the most intense and personal of all the aspects. Close interactions are likely. Synthesis, solidarity and cohesion feature. |
|
Virgintile |
(Vir) |
18.00 |
1º |
V |
In the Virgintile aspect we see the seed of potential for opportunity and harmony between the two planets. It may be said to be mildly ‘benefic’ in the areas of the house(s) concerned. |
|
Semisextile |
(SSx) |
30.00 |
3º |
h |
One gets new perspectives in relation with another, allowing a focus of attention on the potentialities depicted by planet, sign and house, but at exact or close to exact denotes strain and tension. |
|
Undecile |
(Und) |
32.73 |
0.5º |
11 |
At the Undecile, the actualisation of the realisation of the perspectives associated with the Semisextile begins giving impetus in the directions indicated by Sign, House and Planet. |
|
Semiquintile |
(SQn) |
36.00 |
1º |
|
In the Semiquintile, we see the choice between two intellectually creative paths of the selfish, art for art’s sake / or the unselfish ‘right hand of God’ approach. It also points to innovative approaches to ‘old techniques’. |
|
Novile |
(Nov) |
40.00 |
1º |
9 |
The Novile represents the level at which complete fulfillment of individual being is possible -- either as an end in itself (negative approach) or as the condition for positive emergence into an altogether new and higher realm of being. The novile conveys a somewhat charismatic, transcendental, mystical force, latent karmic details and spiritual growth. Noviles can indicate ceremony and sometimes relate to marriage. |
|
Semi-square |
(SSq) |
45.00 |
3º |
f |
One creates internal friction with another, manifesting and becoming actualised in a very obvious exterior way, precipitating events in the world. Generally purposeful. These aspects can be harsh and react sharply and abruptly. They can also indicate a need to take action for the future. Resistance is likely. There is a need to keep cool, act cautiously and make the best of things. Resolution rather than ignoring the problem is required. |
|
Septile |
(Sep) |
51.43 |
1º |
7 or S |
The Septile has a Uranus-Neptune flavor, suggesting energy linkings that are not entirely of this world. One planet brings the other into contact with the unknownAccording to Marc Edmund Jones the key meaning is one of fatality. This is a somewhat irrational force of energy, something sacred and holy, as much like the number seven, Septiles contain spiritual power and imply the possibility of cosmic intervention. Septiles indicate harmony and union though in a non-conforming way. This link is the key to inspirational experience and is Spiritual in quality. These aspects can indicate extraordinary creative efforts at self-knowledge and ultimate understanding. |
|
Sextile |
(Sex) |
60.00 |
6º |
e |
When planets are Sextile, one has opportunity and fruitfulness for growth, exchange, and harmony in relation with another. Considered one of the "luckiest" of aspects. Sextiles can indicate the trends are with you. They're a time of co-operation; a merging of the yin with the yang. They may be considered an invitation to action. |
|
Biundecile |
(Bun) |
65.50 |
II 11 |
Like the Undecile we again see the realisation of the opportunities hinted at by the Sextile, giving potential to actualise into creativity. |
|
|
Quintile |
(Qui) |
72.00 |
2º |
Q |
When planets are Quintile, one creatively relates externally with another. This aspect can be an indication of uncommon latent creative energy and talent. If active, (and effort is required) natives are usually trend-setters and need an audience. The energy here is specialized and purposely striving toward power. Quintile energy can be romantic, playful and demonstrative. The quintile family of aspects can indicate science, math, engineering or musical ability. There appears to be a need to make things happen. Quintiles bring a certain dignity, clarity, pride and unusual sexual energy. |
|
Binovile |
(BNv) |
80.00 |
1º |
|
As it partakes of the 9 series, it seems the Bi Novile is the indication of the realisation of purpose, between the stress or impetus of the square, and the intellectual realisation of the potenntials at the Quintile. |
|
Square |
(Squ) |
90.00 |
7º |
|
When planets are Square, one is in conflict with another. Adaptation is required by both sides. Usually occurs when two planets are the same triplicity of the zodiac. When planets are square, there is creative tension that requires extra work. Planets that square each other can be openly divisive, work against and inhibit each other. The energy is restless and busy. When it does assert itself in a positive way it is quite a productive force. There can be tension, inertia and blockages. |
|
Triundecile |
(Tun) |
98.20 |
1º |
III 11 |
The Triundecile, may be considered the link between the desire for change of the Square and the Biseptiles necessity for decision. Again, it is the realisation of the potential for actualistion of change which can be either stressful or purposeful. |
|
Biseptile |
(BSp) |
102.86 |
1º |
|
When planets are Biseptile, implied is the necessity for decisions relating to Spiritual paths in terms of the signs, houses and planets involved. |
|
Trine |
(Tri) |
120.00 |
7º |
|
When planets are Trine, one is in harmony with another. One expands the other by adding its traits to it's expression, facilitating it's actions. Together they bring ease and abundance. It may be that karmically the Trine represents the good we have done in the past. Conversely the ease at which the trine operates may bring about passive reception resulting in complacency. |
|
Quadrundecile |
(Qun) |
130.90 |
1º |
IV 11 |
At the Quadrundecile, the need to make use of the harmony associated with the Trine aspect can be realised without need of an active aspect in additional contact, as the aspect itself is stressful or purposeful in nature. |
|
Sesquiquadrate |
(Ses) |
135.00 |
3º |
|
When planets are Sesquiquadrate, one creates internal agitation with another, but like the semi square can actualise events and be quite purposeful if patience and perseverance are learned. Much akin to the Semi-square, and the Square aspect, the sesqui-square can indicate a frustration of achievement that eventually leads to delayed achievement. |
|
Biquintile |
(BQn) |
144.00 |
2º |
|
As it partakes of the ‘5’ series, one creatively relates internally with another, giving inner peace, but again at the intellectual level of Mercury. (By transit, it appears related to loss in some cases - perhaps Mercury as the 'trickster'). As it partakes of the quintile, much of the quintiles qualities are present, but requires more effort to externalise the talents indicated. It may manifest as an intuitive 'knowing' indicating that the person is more in touch with those areas of life. |
|
Quincunx |
(Qui) |
150.00 |
3º |
i |
The planets here can often relate in a discordant way. The aspect generally denotes friction, but may also bring persistence and patience. It relates on an interpersonal level and can be an indicator of health factors both mentally and physically. When planets are Inconjunct, one is different from another. Adjustment is the key word here. There is a gnawing uneasiness, things are not clean cut. Unconscious negligence can cause problems. The quincunx can be described as an irritant which leads to fulfillment. First, power may be dampened. There could be a need to give more than you get. Things may seem out of joint. There's some sort of quandary that requires readjustment, a change in routine and a need to analyze and perfect. By transit the aspect can indicate a 'letting go'. |
|
Triseptile |
(TSp) |
154.29 |
1º |
|
With the Triseptile, we see the need for elimination of ‘wrong thinking’ in terms of the houses and planets involved and the beginning of the process of adjustment and refinement of Spiritual values. It may be seen as the ‘sign post’ directing us to the means of inner re-birth. |
|
Quatronovile |
(QNv) |
160.00 |
1º |
|
When planets are Quatronovile the realisation of the path for right thinking is evident and suggests that the aspect denotes a certain life mission, path or calling, making the aspect quite dynamic and purposeful in terms of actualisation. |
|
Quintundecile |
(Qtu) |
163.60 |
1º |
V 11 |
The Quintundecile hints at uncertainties of the realisation gained at the Quatranovile, and inner doubts begin to surface, making the aspect one of inner stress. |
|
Opposite |
(Opp) |
180.00 |
7º |
b |
One planet reflects the other and opposes and creates tension causing a vacillation between the two polarities represented by Sign and House. Balance and blending of the characteristics as indicated by planet, sign and house is required by the Native. A push-pull process which can be complementary or antagonistic. Energy may be projected on to people or situations. Certainly there's a need to evaluate and reflect. Controversy and contradiction are possible. There may be a choice to fight or leave. Perhaps it's a game of give and take. To avoid struggle and stalemate, compromise may be necessary. An opposition can signal time to change sides or reclaim power. |
It must be remembered that no amount of tabulated astrological factors as found in text books (or this article for that matter) can adequately account for and define in advance all the possible constellations of factors interweaving in an individual’s life pattern. (Although I will be addressing some commonly recognised Aspect Configurations in a following article which can be uncannily accurate in their ‘general’ way ). Through our experience, and verse in astrological, psychological and philosophical principles we can arrive at a broad , and flexible overview of the Gestalt of the person’s chart, - but what we can achieve is largely abstract, that is, we draw on the ability to see the archetypal behind the actual manifestations represented in the chart before us. This ‘ability’ is the beginnings of intuition.
Likewise, the potentialities indicated within the Natal Chart may never actualise, but in presenting the possibilities to our client – especially in times of need, we may open their minds perhaps to new avenues of expression, in harmony with the planetary influences indicated. And notwithstanding that each of us as individuals operates at differing levels of attainment, whether material, intellectual or Spiritual.
Similarly, a large number of these "harmonic" aspects have been out of common usage for so long that their original meanings (if any) have been lost to us. Due caution in application and the drawing of conclusions is a necessary factor until such time as many of the interpretations that I have listed become proven and respectable. Remember, never take anything as "gospel" – always draw your own conclusions.
Try them yourself on your own charts and see what you think!!! Experience is after all the best teacher.
References and Recommended Reading:
"Astrological Aspects – A Process Oriented Approach" by Leyla Rael & Dane Rudhyar
– Aurora Press, 1980
"The Principles of Astrology" by C.E.O. Carter – Fourth Edition
– LN Fowler Limited ,1952
"Aspects in Astrology: A Comprehensive Guide to Interpretation," by Sue Tompkins
-Longmead: Element Books, 1989.
"Essays on Astrology", by Robert Hand –available through Spica Publications
