Astrology Dictionary V Page 2

Vertical

The word Vertical originates from the Latin verticalis and is defined today as 'being in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the horizon'. In Astrology terms the Prime Vertical is akin to a giant East to West circle overhead observed from the South and at right angles towards the meridian. The Prime Vertical creates an interesting marker of importance for astrological studies and a base from where the planetary bodies, signs and houses aspects can be measured. In Campanus methods this vertical point is the place used, rather than the ecliptic path, from where the zodiac configuration is divided into its 12 equal sections.

Vespertine

The word Vespertine is a translation of the Latin vespertinus and thought to mean 'evening'. In Astrology it refers to any planet that sets after the Sun. Ancient people observing the skies recorded the motions of the planets and stars and especially the Sun and Moon's paths and eclipses. One of their earliest observations and the first they named was of the rising and setting of the Sun. All forms of Astrology have centuries old connections with the Sun and its influence on surrounding celestial bodies when they are Vespertine. The Sun signs in astrological practices are the most commonly known, referred to and used in horoscopes today.

Vesta

Many Astrologers today have taken an interest in the possible astrological influences of Asteroids in addition to the traditional planetary forces. Vesta is the name of one of these influential Asteroids and it has been designated an association with the zodiac signs Virgo and Scorpio. It is named after the mythical Goddess or Guardian of the Sacred Flame and her fiery spirit is believed to convey lessons of integration with others, personal renewal and commitment. The sign and house Vesta falls in is said to highlight the energy you were assigned at birth. In retrograde Vesta may signify a person's difficulty in expressing those energies.

Via Combusta

Via Combusta refers to a collection of fixed stars falling between 15 degrees of Libra and 15 degrees of Scorpio. It has acquired the names 'burning' or 'fiery' way as it is considered to have a similar effect to the influence of an eclipse aspect. In Horary Astrology if the ascendant is in the position of Via Combusta the querent is thought to have undisclosed motives for their question. If the planet Mercury is positioned in a Via Combusta it could be an indication of a person being dishonest about their intentions. Wherever it appears this positional point highlights and gives answers about times when decisions, especially financial, should be avoided.

Vigintile

A Vigintile in Astrology is the name of one of Kepler's minor aspects that is thought to possess a weak but mostly positive influence. The symbol for a Vigintile on a birth chart is a simple letter V but may appear identified as a semi-decile or the letters SD. This is an 18 degree aspect that has the astrological keyword phrase 'opportunity to higher awareness'. Despite being classed as a minor aspect a Vigintile appearance can have a significant impact in some houses. There are 20 possible Vigintiles in the 360 degree wheel of the zodiac domain. An orb of influence of 1 degree keeps these aspects more mathematically accurate.

Virgo

Virgo is the 6th sign of the zodiac and represented by the Virgin and the only sign symbolized by a female. This sign is considered to be Mutable and have connections with the Earth element. Virgo is ruled by the planet Mercury and includes people born between August the 23rd and September the 23rd. Typical traits of Virgo's are their meticulous diligence and helpful nurturing approach to life. While they are conscientious and quite modest they can also be rather bossy, fussy, tense or over critical. A Virgo is generally compatible with Taurus, Scorpio, Capricorn or Pisces but they tend to clash with Cancer or Leo.

Visible Planets

The planets we term visible are the ones that we can see with the naked eye and there are traditionally 7 of these. The Visible Planets are the Sun, the Moon, Saturn, Jupiter, Mars, Venus and Mercury. As the Sun is closest in distance to the Earth it is accepted in Astrology to determine the most influence on human personalities. The Moon is considered to reveal the inner emotional self while the Visible Planets Mars, Jupiter and Saturn's authority further strengthens a person's character and fate. The remaining Mercury and Venus are regarded not as intensely influential as they are only 'visible' for short periods.