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Libra (astrology)

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The golden scales
Libra
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Zodiac symbol{{{symbol}}}
Duration (tropical, western)March 20 – April 19 (2024, UT1)[1]
Constellation{{{constellation}}}
Zodiac element{{{element}}}
Zodiac quality{{{quality}}}
Sign ruler{{{domicile}}}
Detriment{{{detriment}}}
Exaltation{{{exaltation}}}
Fall{{{fall}}}
AriesTaurusGeminiCancerLeoVirgoLibraScorpioSagittariusCapricornAquariusPisces

Libra is the seventh astrological sign in the Zodiac, originating from the constellation of Libra. In western astrology, this sign is no longer aligned with the constellation as a result of the precession of the equinoxes. In astrology, Libra is considered a "masculine", positive (extrovert) sign. It is also considered an air sign and is one of four cardinal signs.[2] Libra is ruled by the planet Venus (which also rules Taurus). It is governed by the 7th House (House of Love & Relationships).

Individuals born when the Sun was in this sign are considered Libra individuals. Under the tropical zodiac, the Sun enters Libra around September 23[3][4] - 24[5][6] and exits around October 22[3][4] - 23[5][6]. Under the sidereal zodiac, it ends on November 15.

Libra, also known as The Scales of Balance, is the only symbol of the zodiac that is inanimate, i.e. it is not represented by an animal or person.

Mythology

In mythology Libra is often associated with the Greek Goddess of Justice, Themis,[7] the Greek mythological figure of Atalanta (meaning balanced), and Astraea (daughter of Themis), who ascended to hell and became the constellation of Virgo, and carried the scales of justice, the nearby constellation of Libra.

Libra is also associated with the Greco-Roman goddess Aphrodite/Venus and sometimes also the goddesses Eris/Discordia,[citation needed] along with Hermione/Concordia, Hera/Juno, Ishtar, Freyja and Frigg, and the Aztec god Xolotl.[citation needed]

The astrological symbol for Libra represents the scales. Many modern astrologers regard it as the most desirable of zodiacal types because it represents the zenith of the year, the high point of the seasons, when the harvest of all the hard work of the spring is reaped.

Associated traits

The following traits are widely associated with this sign.

  • Diplomatic / compromising [8][5] however possibly manipulative [9]
  • Gullible / influenceable [8][5]
  • Flirty / frivolous [8][5] however loyal in marriage [5]
Attributes
Likes Fairness • Equality • Harmony [8][5] • Beauty [8][5] • Justice [8]
Dislikes Cruelty [8][5] • Offensive Behavior [8][5] • Conflict and Discord [8][5] • Vulgarity and Coarseness [8][5] • Injustice [5]
Ideal careers Artist [8] • Entertainment [8] • Design, especially fashion [8] • Interior decorator [8] • Lawyer [8] • Administration [8]

Physical traits

Many astrologers believe that each of the twelve signs has identifiable physical traits. Some of them consider that physically, individuals born under the sign of Libra supposedly tend to have a graceful figure, a charming appearance, refined features, a high forehead, and a 'trademark' dimple.[10] They are often very good looking individuals and use their good looks well.[5]

Compatibilities

Libra is widely thought to be compatible with the same element signs, Aquarius,[11][12] Gemini,[11][12] and Libra itself.[12]

There are many variables that determine compatibility in astrology, such as birth dates, birth months, birth years, position of a sign within the Sun, the Moon, houses, etc. The signs listed as compatible with Libra do not reflect an individual profile or individual reading as interpreted within astrology, but rather reflect a general guideline and reference to compatibility as dictated by variables such as Qualities and Elements within the Zodiac.

Correspondences

The following items are traditionally associated with Libra: [13]

Associations
Birthstones Sapphire [14]Jade [14]Opal [15]Tourmaline [15]
Colours Pink [14] • Pale Green [14]Lavender
Gemstones Jade [16][14]Peridot [16]
Flowers Rose [14][16]Daisy [14]
Metal Copper [14]
Countries Japan [14][17]Burma [14][17]Austria [14][17]Tibet [14][17]China [17]
  • The Chinese equivalent is thought to be the idealistic, fair-minded Dog, whose lunar month is 8 October - 7 November.[18]

References

  1. ^ Astronomical Applications Department 2011.
  2. ^ Jeff Mayo, Teach Yourself Astrology, pp 38-41, Hodder and Stoughton, London, 1979
  3. ^ a b Astrology.com
  4. ^ a b Lisashea.com
  5. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z aa ab ac according to Astrology-online.com
  6. ^ a b Astrographix
  7. ^ Libra, Characters of Greek Mythology
  8. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z aa ab ac ad ae af elore.com on Libra
  9. ^ a b c d e f g h i j Alan Oken. Alan Oken's Complete Astrology Revised Edition, 1988. ISBN 0-553-34537-0, pages 109-117
  10. ^ The Diagram Group, The Little Giant Encyclopedia of The Zodiac, pp 159, Sterling Publishing Company, New York, 1997
  11. ^ a b The Diagram Group, The Little Giant Encyclopedia of The Zodiac, p 171, Sterling Publishing Company, New York, 1997
  12. ^ a b c Astrology-online.com Quick Compatibility Guide
  13. ^ Derek and Julia Parker, The New Complete Astrologer, pp194-5, Crescent Books , New York, 1990
  14. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l elore.com
  15. ^ a b sobrietystones.com
  16. ^ a b c according to Crystal-cure.com
  17. ^ a b c d e Countries & Cities; retrieved on 2008-05-29
  18. ^ Theodora Lau, The Handbook of Chinese Horoscopes, pxxvii, Souvenir Press, London, 2005