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1. What is an astrological house? |
In astrology, the natal chart is like a personal map that reveals facets of our life. While the zodiac signs describe our character traits, the astrological houses show us where these traits express themselves. Divided into 12 (from I to XII), they are essential for reading a birth chart. Explanation.
1. What is an astrological house?
The zodiac signs, also twelve in number, correspond to 30-degree segments of the celestial circle, each associated with particular character traits and energies. They indicate how a person expresses their energies and behaviors.
Houses, on the other hand, show where these energies express themselves in a person's life. Thus, signs describe the nature of the energy, while houses specify the area of life concerned.
It is important to note that the division into signs is natural, resulting from the 12 lunar cycles of the year, while the division into houses is arbitrary and varies according to the house division systems used (see below).
2. What is house division?
House division is the process by which the sky is divided into 12 astrological houses in a birth chart. Unlike the zodiac signs, which are fixed divisions of 30 degrees each, houses are not always equal in size and vary depending on the chosen house division system, birth time, and birth location.
Each house division system uses a specific method to draw these 12 houses from the Ascendant, which corresponds to the Eastern horizon at the time of birth.
| Placidus | This is the most used system in modern Western astrology. It divides the time between the rise and set of each house according to the angle of celestial planes. This system is particularly accurate for temperate latitudes. |
| Koch | Another system based on time calculation, but with methods slightly different from Placidus. It is sometimes preferred for its more dynamic approach. |
| Equal houses | Here, all houses have an equal size of 30 degrees, regardless of geographical or temporal specifics. This system is often chosen for its simplicity. |
| Whole houses | Each entire zodiac sign is considered a house. This means that if the Ascendant falls at 10 degrees Taurus, the entire 1st House will be in the sign of Taurus. |
| Campanus | This system divides the celestial sphere into 12 equal segments from hourly circles projected from the center of the Earth, based on the observer's perception of the surrounding space. |
| Regiomontanus | This system divides the celestial sphere by splitting the celestial equator into 12 equal segments, then projects these divisions onto the ecliptic to determine the houses. |
The house division method directly influences how the houses are drawn and, consequently, the reading of the natal chart.
Some astrologers prefer to experiment with different systems to see which best corresponds to the events or character traits observed in a person's life. Although house division may seem a bit technical, it is mainly essential to adapt astrology to the individual reality of each chart.
3. How to interpret the astrological houses?
To read and interpret your astrological houses, start by obtaining your natal chart. This chart, accessible through your date, time, and place of birth, is essential to locate your houses and understand their influence. On the circular chart diagram, the houses are represented as sections divided by lines. These lines mark the beginning of each house, called the cusp, and each is associated with a zodiac sign.
Once you have your chart in hand, the next step is to observe the sign located at the beginning of each house. This sign directly influences how you experience the events associated with that area.
The planets present in a house bring their energy to the concerned area.
Finally, the relationships or aspects that the planets in your houses have with other elements of the chart help refine the interpretation. These interactions reveal nuances or tensions between different areas of your life.
For an in-depth reading, it is advisable to become familiar with the basics of the signs and planets, then gradually explore the connections between these elements and the houses. Reading the houses may seem complex at first, but it becomes more accessible with a little practice and the right tools.
4. The astrological houses
Now that we have covered the important definitions and their interactions, it is time to get to the heart of the matter with the presentation of the 12 astrological houses and the influence of the planets (what happens in this area) as well as that of the signs (how it manifests).
4.1. House I (Ascendant)
4.1.1. Presentation of House I
The First House is associated with your visible personality and how you present yourself to the world. It represents physical appearance, spontaneous behavior, and the first impression you leave on others. The Ascendant, which marks the beginning of this house, acts as an entry point to your natal chart, influencing how you start things and approach life.
4.1.2. Influence of planets on the First House
| Sun | Strong presence, natural charisma, seeking attention. |
| Lune | Sensitivity, visible emotional receptivity. |
| Mercury | Quick mind, fast communication, curiosity. |
| Venus | Natural beauty, charm, grace in appearance. |
| Mars | Dynamism, energy, sometimes aggressiveness. |
| Jupiter | Optimism, generosity, personality expansion. |
| Saturn | Serious appearance, maturity, reserve. |
| Uranus | Originality, eccentricity, unpredictability. |
| Neptune | Mystery, daydreaming, artistic aura. |
| Pluto | Introspection, magnetism, intensity. |
4.1.3. Influence of signs on the First House
| Aries | Impulsive |
| Taurus | Stable |
| Gemini | Curious |
| Cancer | Protective |
| Leo | Charismatic |
| Virgo | Analytical |
| Libra | Diplomatic |
| Scorpio | Intense |
| Sagittarius | Adventurous |
| Capricorn | Ambitious |
| Aquarius | Innovative |
| Pisces | Empathetic |
4.2. Second House
4.2.1. Presentation of the Second House
This house focuses on material possessions, finances, and personal value. It shows how you manage your resources, your attitude toward money and goods, as well as your self-esteem.
4.2.2. Influence of planets on the Second House
| Sun | Identity linked to financial success. |
| Lune | Emotions influenced by material security. |
| Mercury | Active mind in business and transactions. |
| Venus | Search for comfort and material pleasures. |
| Mars | Initiative to generate income, sometimes impulsive spending. |
| Jupiter | Potential for wealth and abundance. |
| Saturn | Need to structure and save, patience to build wealth. |
| Uranus | Sudden changes in finances. |
| Neptune | Confusion or idealism regarding possessions. |
| Pluto | Radical transformations in resources. |
4.2.3. Influence of signs on the Second House
| Aries | Financial initiative |
| Taurus | Material stability |
| Gemini | Variability |
| Cancer | Family attachment to possessions |
| Leo | Grandeur in acquisitions |
| Virgo | Precision |
| Libra | Financial harmony |
| Scorpio | Strategic investments |
| Sagittarius | Financial boldness |
| Capricorn | Pragmatism |
| Aquarius | Economic innovations |
| Pisces | Intuitive approach |
4.3. Third House
4.3.1. Presentation of the Third House
The Third House is related to communication, daily interactions, and relationships with siblings, neighbors, or close ones. It also includes short trips and practical learning. This area reveals how you express your thoughts and how you adapt to your immediate environment.
4.3.2. Influence of planets on the Third House
| Sun | Identity linked to financial success. |
| Lune | Emotions influenced by material security. |
| Mercury | Active mind in business and transactions. |
| Venus | Search for comfort and material pleasures. |
| Mars | Initiative to generate income, sometimes impulsive spending. |
| Jupiter | Potential for wealth and abundance. |
| Saturn | Need to structure and save, patience to build wealth. |
| Uranus | Sudden changes in finances. |
| Neptune | Confusion or idealism regarding possessions. |
| Pluto | Radical transformations in resources. |
4.3.3. Influence of signs on the Third House
| Aries | Direct communication |
| Taurus | Thoughtful reflection |
| Gemini | Liveliness |
| Cancer | Emotional approach |
| Leo | Expressiveness |
| Virgo | Precision |
| Libra | Diplomacy |
| Scorpio | Intensity |
| Sagittarius | Openness |
| Capricorn | Structured discourse |
| Aquarius | Originality |
| Pisces | Sensitivity |
4.4. Fourth House (IC)
4.4.1. Presentation of the Fourth House
House IV represents your roots, your family, and your home. It shows your relationship to your birthplace, your childhood, and sometimes the end of life. It is also the house of emotional foundations and family traditions.
4.4.2. Influence of planets on House IV
| Sun | Importance of family traditions, need for a bright home. |
| Moon | Emotional attachment to the home. |
| Mercury | Intellectual activity within the home. |
| Venus | Harmonious and aesthetic home. |
| Mars | Dynamism in the home, sometimes family conflicts. |
| Jupiter | Expansion and prosperity in family life. |
| Saturn | Responsibilities and discipline in the home. |
| Uranus | Frequent changes within the home. |
| Neptune | Dreamy or idealized atmosphere in the home. |
| Pluto | Deep transformations in family relationships. |
4.4.3. Influence of signs on House IV
| Aries | Dynamic home |
| Taurus | Security |
| Gemini | Adaptability |
| Cancer | Deep attachment |
| Leo | Theatrical home |
| Virgo | Organization |
| Libra | Balance |
| Scorpio | Intensity |
| Sagittarius | Cultural openness |
| Capricorn | Structure |
| Aquarius | Innovation |
| Pisces | Sensitivity |
4.5. House V
4.5.1. Introduction to House V
This house is about creativity, leisure, and children. It reflects your passions, your ability to enjoy life, and your personal expression. Artistic activities, casual romantic relationships, and games fall under its influence. For example, Jupiter in House V can indicate a fulfilling love life or great creative talent.
4.5.2. Influence of planets on House V
| Sun | Radiant artistic expression, love for leisure and creative activities. |
| Lune | Emotional attachment to children or creative projects, need to find comfort in leisure. |
| Mercury | Active creative mind, communication in artistic or educational fields. |
| Venus | Artistic talent, appreciation of aesthetic and romantic pleasures. |
| Mars | Dynamism in creative activities, energy focused on competitive leisure. |
| Jupiter | Abundance in relationships with children or in creative projects, taste for expansive leisure. |
| Saturn | Serious and structured approach to hobbies or responsibilities towards children. |
| Uranus | Originality and innovation in creativity, love of unconventional activities. |
| Neptune | Deep artistic inspiration, tendency to idealize children or projects. |
| Pluto | Intensity and major transformations in relationships with children or in personal expression. |
4.5.3. Influence of signs on House V
| Aries | Bold creativity |
| Taurus | Sensual and grounded expression |
| Gemini | Varied and intellectual creativity |
| Cancer | Emotional creativity |
| Leo | Need to shine in leisure activities |
| Virgo | Attention to detail in art or projects |
| Libra | Harmony and aesthetics in activities |
| Scorpio | Intense passions |
| Sagittarius | Adventure-oriented hobbies |
| Capricorn | Structure and discipline |
| Aquarius | Originality and independence |
| Pisces | Intuitive inspiration |
4.6. House VI
4.6.1. Introduction to House VI
House VI is associated with daily work, health, and service. It shows how you take care of yourself, your relationship to routine work, and your ability to be useful to others.
4.6.2. Influence of planets on House VI
| Sun | Importance given to routine and personal accomplishment in work. |
| Lune | Emotional sensitivity in the work environment, need for well-being to function. |
| Mercury | Sharp and analytical mind in daily tasks, ability to manage details. |
| Venus | Search for harmony in the workplace, care for health and well-being. |
| Mars | Energy and dynamism in daily tasks, possibility of overwork. |
| Jupiter | Opportunities for growth in work, optimism facing daily challenges. |
| Saturn | Rigor and responsibility in daily tasks, methodical approach to health. |
| Uranus | Frequent changes in work, preference for unconventional environments. |
| Neptune | Inspiration in service to others, but possibility of confusion or neglect. |
| Pluto | Profound transformations in routines or health. |
4.6.3. Influence of signs on House VI
| Aries | Energetic work |
| Taurus | Stable and persevering approach |
| Gemini | Versatility in tasks |
| Cancer | Attention to others' needs |
| Leo | Pride in work |
| Virgo | Attention to detail and discipline |
| Libra | Search for balance |
| Scorpio | Intensity and transformation |
| Sagittarius | Need for expansion in work |
| Capricorn | Structured and ambitious approach |
| Aquarius | Originality in service |
| Pisces | Intuitive approach |
4.7. House VII (Descendant)
4.7.1. Introduction to House VII
This house governs partnerships, marriage, and all important relationships in your life. It indicates how you interact with others on a personal and professional level. The Descendant, which marks the start of this house, is opposite the Ascendant and reflects what you seek in others.
4.7.2. Influence of planets on House VII
| Sun | Importance given to relationships, need to shine in partnerships. |
| Lune | Strong emotional relationships, need for security in unions. |
| Mercury | Essential communication in partnerships, sharp mind in collaborations. |
| Venus | Harmony and beauty sought in relationships. |
| Mars | Dynamism and passion in partnerships, but potential for conflicts. |
| Jupiter | Expansive relationships, often carrying opportunities. |
| Saturn | Responsibilities and serious commitments in relationships. |
| Uranus | Need for independence in partnerships, unconventional relationships. |
| Neptune | Tendency to idealize partners, but risk of disappointments. |
| Pluto | Intensity and profound transformations in relationships. |
4.7.3. Influence of signs on House VII
| Aries | Dynamic and sometimes conflictual relationships |
| Taurus | Stable and sensual relationships |
| Gemini | Need for communication in unions |
| Cancer | Deep emotional attachment |
| Leo | Charismatic partnerships |
| Virgo | Attention to detail in relationships |
| Libra | Search for balance and harmony |
| Scorpio | Intense and passionate relationships |
| Sagittarius | Free and open relationships |
| Capricorn | Commitment and structure |
| Aquarius | Original and independent relationships |
| Pisces | Intuitive and spiritual relationships |
4.8. House VIII
4.8.1. Introduction to House VIII
House VIII is the house of transformations, shared resources, and sexuality. It is often associated with themes of death, rebirth, and deep changes. It also governs inheritances, shared finances, and secrets.
4.8.2. Influence of planets on House VIII
| Sun | Significant personal transformation, exploration of shared resources. |
| Lune | Emotional sensitivity related to transformations. |
| Mercury | Curiosity about mysteries or occult aspects. |
| Venus | Harmony in shared finances, intense sensuality. |
| Mars | Powerful energy in transformations, intensity in sexuality. |
| Jupiter | Expansion of shared resources, personal growth through transformations. |
| Saturn | Restrictions or responsibilities in shared finances, slow transformations. |
| Uranus | Sudden changes in resources or sexuality. |
| Neptune | High intuition, but possibility of confusion in transformations. |
| Pluto | Deep and intense transformations, capacity for regeneration. |
4.8.3. Influence of signs on House VIII
| Aries | Rapid transformations |
| Taurus | Stability in the face of changes |
| Gemini | Curiosity about mysteries |
| Cancer | Emotional intensity in transformations |
| Leo | Need for control |
| Virgo | Analysis of transformation processes |
| Libra | Harmony in shared resources |
| Scorpio | Mastery of transformations |
| Sagittarius | Exploration of resources |
| Capricorn | Structure in transformations |
| Aquarius | Innovation in the face of change |
| Pisces | Intuitive acceptance of transformations |
4.9. House IX
4.9.1. Introduction to House IX
This house is linked to philosophy, higher education, and long-distance travel. It represents your ideals, thirst for knowledge, and openness to new cultures and beliefs.
4.9.2. Influence of planets on House IX
| Sun | Importance of personal exploration and higher learning. |
| Lune | Strong intuition in travel or philosophical studies, need for emotions in learning. |
| Mercury | Communication and intellectual curiosity in global or spiritual subjects. |
| Venus | Harmony in travel and attraction to foreign cultures. |
| Mars | Dynamism in studies or distant adventures, passion for ideals. |
| Jupiter | Expansion through travel, philosophy, or higher education. |
| Saturn | Disciplined studies, structure in the quest for meaning or travel. |
| Uranus | Need for unique experiences and new perspectives in explorations. |
| Neptune | Inspiration and spirituality in travel and philosophy, sometimes confusion in beliefs. |
| Pluto | Deep transformations through travel or the evolution of ideals. |
4.9.3. Influence of signs on the 9th House
| Aries | Passionately initiated travels and studies |
| Taurus | Stable approach to ideals |
| Gemini | Thirst for intellectual discovery |
| Cancer | Need for emotional grounding even in explorations |
| Leo | Learning related to personal expression |
| Virgo | Precision in studies |
| Libra | Harmony and search for balance in ideals) |
| Scorpio | Intense exploration of deep truths |
| Sagittarius | Thirst for travel and freedom |
| Capricorn | Structure and discipline in education |
| Aquarius | Innovative approach to ideals |
| Pisces | Spirituality in the quest for meaning |
4.10. 10th House (Midheaven)
4.10.1. Introduction to the 10th House
The 10th House is the house of career, ambitions, and public reputation. The Midheaven, which marks the highest point of the natal chart, reflects your long-term goals and the image you project to the world.
4.10.2. Influence of planets on the 10th House
| Sun | Ambition and need to shine in career. |
| Lune | Emotions related to professional successes, need to find balance between public and personal life. |
| Mercury | Essential communication in the professional field. |
| Venus | Harmony and aesthetics in career, often related to art or relationships. |
| Mars | Dynamism and competitiveness in professional goals. |
| Jupiter | Expansion and opportunities in career, often a lucky path. |
| Saturn | Patience and hard work to achieve lasting goals. |
| Uranus | Frequent changes in career or attraction to original professions. |
| Neptune | Career inspired by spirituality or imagination, but sometimes lacking clarity. |
| Pluto | Deep transformations and power in the public sphere. |
4.10.3. Influence of signs on the 10th House
| Aries | Direct and bold ambitions |
| Taurus | Career grounded in stability |
| Gemini | Versatility in profession |
| Cancer | Career related to family values |
| Leo | Need for recognition in career |
| Virgo | Methodical and disciplined approach |
| Libra | Harmony and diplomacy in public reputation |
| Scorpio | Intensity in goals |
| Sagittarius | Career related to exploration or teaching |
| Capricorn | Hard work and discipline |
| Aquarius | Originality and innovation in career |
| Pisces | Career inspired by compassion or spirituality |
4.11. 11th House
4.11.1. Introduction to the 11th House
This house is associated with friendships, groups, and collective aspirations. It shows how you integrate into society and your dreams for the future. It is also the house of large-scale projects and ideals.
4.11.2. Influence of planets on the 11th House
| Sun | Brilliance in social groups, need to be at the center of networks. |
| Lune | Deep emotional relationships with friends, need for support in groups. |
| Mercury | Active communication with friends and in collective projects. |
| Venus | Harmony in friendships and attraction to balanced social relationships. |
| Mars | Dynamism in group activities, sometimes conflicts with friends. |
| Jupiter | Abundance of friends or involvement in large-scale projects. |
| Saturn | Responsibility and seriousness in friendships, sometimes limited or restricted bonds. |
| Uranus | Original and unexpected relationships, involvement in avant-garde groups. |
| Neptune | Inspiring friends or spiritual bonds, but sometimes idealized. |
| Pluto | Deep transformations through friendships or collective projects. |
4.11.3. Influence of signs on the Eleventh House
| Aries | Dynamic friendships |
| Taurus | Stable and lasting relationships |
| Gemini | Versatility in profession |
| Cancer | Varied and intellectual networks |
| Leo | Emotional attachment to friends |
| Virgo | Need for leadership in groups |
| Libra | Balance in friendships |
| Scorpio | Intense relationships |
| Sagittarius | Free and open friendships |
| Capricorn | Serious and ambitious relationships |
| Aquarius | Originality in social networks |
| Pisces | Spiritual friendships |
4.12. Twelfth House
4.12.1. Presentation of the Twelfth House
The Twelfth House is linked to the subconscious, retreats, and trials. It represents what is hidden, dreams, and deep fears. It is also the house of spirituality and connections with the invisible.
4.12.2. Influence of planets on the Twelfth House
| Sun | Need for inner understanding and solitude to regenerate. |
| Lune | Hidden emotions, great sensitivity to unconscious influences. |
| Mercury | Analytical mind on spiritual or subconscious matters. |
| Venus | Harmony in spiritual retreats, attraction to introspective art. |
| Mars | Hidden energy, need for action in introspection. |
| Jupiter | Expansion in spirituality and mystical experiences. |
| Saturn | Trials related to isolation or hidden responsibilities. |
| Uranus | Sudden changes in unconscious perceptions. |
| Neptune | Strong spiritual connection, but sometimes illusions or confusion. |
| Pluto | Intense transformations in the subconscious, psychological regeneration. |
4.12.3. Influence of signs on the Twelfth House
| Aries | Need to overcome trials with courage |
| Taurus | Stable approach to retreats |
| Gemini | Analysis of fears and dreams |
| Cancer | Emotional connection to the subconscious |
| Leo | Need to shine even in introspection |
| Virgo | Analysis of suffering |
| Libra | Harmony in trials |
| Scorpio | Intense transformations |
| Sagittarius | Search for meaning in trials |
| Capricorn | Discipline in difficult times |
| Aquarius | Innovative perceptions |
| Pisces | Deep spiritual connection |
5. Classification of astrological houses
Astrological houses are not simply isolated sectors of a natal chart. They are organized according to precise classifications that help better understand their role and function. These classifications are based on their position in the natal chart, their connection with astrological elements, and their influence in the individual's life.
5.1. Classification by mode
First, houses are classified into three groups according to their mode: angular, succedent, and cadent. This classification helps identify the intensity or dynamism of a life area in the chart:
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The angular houses (I, IV, VII, X) mark the main axes of life. They are dynamic and reflect key moments: House I represents the beginning of self, House IV focuses on roots and home, House VII deals with relationships and partnerships, and House X symbolizes career and ambition.
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The succedent houses (II, V, VIII, XI) follow these angular houses and are associated with stability and building. They concern areas where one seeks to consolidate, such as finances, creativity, or social aspirations.
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The cadent houses (III, VI, IX, XII) are houses of adaptation and reflection. They are related to communication, daily work, education, and inner challenges.
5.1. Classification by element
Another classification is based on astrological elements: fire, earth, air, and water. Associating houses with astrological elements helps understand the style or tone of a life area:
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The fire houses (I, V, IX) are linked to energy and action, representing areas where the individual expresses vitality and ideals.
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The earth houses (II, VI, X) focus on practical and material aspects of life, such as possessions, health, or career.
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The air houses (III, VII, XI) govern communication and relationships, promoting exchanges and social interactions.
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The water houses (IV, VIII, XII) deal with emotions and transformations, exploring family roots, personal metamorphoses, and the inner world.
5.2. Classification by scope
Houses are also classified according to their scope in life: personal, relational, or universal, which structures the chart reading by levels of experience:
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The personal houses (I to IV) relate to identity and the foundations of the individual, such as personality or home.
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The relational houses (V to VIII) concern interactions with others, especially in romantic relationships, work, or partnerships.
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The universal houses (IX to XII) open onto the collective and the spiritual, addressing themes such as the search for meaning, public career, friendships, and introspection.
Here is this article on astrological houses. It is not necessarily obvious, proving that the practice of astrology requires work and rigor. Other topics on this theme will be available to read soon.
