Astrology Dictionary M Page 1

Major Aspects

In Astrology the Major Aspects are some of the base references viewed for analyzing natal charts. The zodiac's 360 degree connecting circle is split in 2 by the Opposition aspect at 180 degrees. Then into 3 with the Trine aspect at 120 degrees and into 4 with the Square aspect at 90 degrees. It is further separated into 6 by the Sextile aspect at 60 degrees. So the Opposition, Square, Trine and Sextile are considered Major Aspects as they identify considerable details by their positional presence. When formed at certain planets and points in astrological analysis they help unite and combine planetary energies.

Malefic

Malefic is the term used in Astrology to identify planets, houses, signs and aspects that are considered negative in their influence. The word Malefic originates from the Latin maleficus meaning evil doing or wicked. In an astrological sense this means that the Malefic elements in a birth chart may have an effect that is not regarded as beneficial or complimentary. A Malefic is able to diminish and change the influences of positive celestial sources. Another name used for a Malefic is 'an infortune' and Saturn is usually known as the Greater Malefic while Mars is termed the Lesser Malefic.

Malefic Aspects

Malefic Aspects in an astrological birth reading can be quite significant even though their effect is considered a negative influence. The Major Malefic Aspects in Astrology are the Square at 90 degrees and the Opposition at 180 degrees. Minor Malefic Aspects are the semi-square 45 degrees, the sesqui-square 135 degrees and the quincunx or inconjunct at 150 degrees. There are others of course but these are the main one to look out for. Although these particular aspects are indicators of negativity they are believed to be reversible if we are aware of them and work at these weaker areas.

Mandala

The word Mandala is a Sanskrit word meaning circle and in astrological terms it characterizes a wheel is mysticism. Mandala is the name sometimes given to the circle of the zodiac signs and any symbolized circular object. In mythology and many ancient teachings circles with symbolic patterns have been used to attempt to transmit spiritual energy for healing, acquiring riches, love, knowledge and meditation. A Mandala is useful for establishing a pure space in which to meditate and is used by Buddhists as well as in numerous cultural traditions. It has become a popular generic term for any diagram that is linked to the cosmos to be interpreted by humans.

Mantra

The word Mantra comes from the ancient Sanskrit language and has the meaning 'sacred message, charm, counsel' and 'instrument of thought'. A Mantra consists of a number of letters composed into sound sequences designed to be chanted to increase their power. In Astrology Mantra's have been known to have been used to enhance or diminish planet influences. When reciting a Mantra you must do it with devotion and feeling as its power needs this input to achieve the best results. Chanting a Mantra should be done sitting in a certain position to the North or East in the day and to the North at night.

Mars

The name for the planet Mars is believed to be derived from the Greek Ares who was the Roman God of War. This celestial body is similar to Earth in its form with its ice caps, tilted axis and seasonal variations. Mars takes 387 days to pass through all the signs of the zodiac and is considered astrologically to represent energy, ego's and also disputes. In Astrology Mars rules the 1st house and the star sign Aries, it also co-rules Scorpio. When Mars, the 'Red Planet' as it is often called, is found in the 2 opposite signs of Taurus and Libra it is said to be in detriment. This Masculine planet, situated 4th from the Sun, is one of action for astrological purposes.

Masculine & Feminine Planets

In Astrology planetary influences are assigned either as a Masculine and active or a Feminine and passive gender. The Masculine planets are Saturn, Mars, Jupiter and the Sun and the Feminine planets are Venus, Neptune and the Moon. The planet Mercury is capable of having masculinity and femininity depending on its position. If it is not aspected then its gender type is decided by zodiac sign or its rising before or after the Sun. Mythology has played a part in the concept and assignment of Masculine and Feminine planets as many celestial bodies acquired their names from mythical deities.