Dignity in Depth

Filed under Advanced Topics Astrology on May 1, 2015

The condition of each sign depends entirely on the dignity of its ruler. You’ll want to think of the signs as kingdoms owned by the various planets. For example, Saturn owns Capricorn and Aquarius. If Saturn is exalted in Libra, then he also exalts Capricorn and Aquarius. Planets that fall in those two signs would be considered strong unless otherwise detrimental to the planet in question. In other words, we need to understand that the climate of a planet affects any planets that fall in its domain. The best way to test this out is with a simple equation. ‘A’ is to ‘B’ as ‘B’ is to ‘C.’

In a simple example, we see Venus exalted in Pisces. Next, we need to know how Jupiter, the ruler of Pisces, is doing. Then we see that Jupiter is in its own sign, which means he’s doing great! In this case, Venus’s exaltation in Pisces is highly dignified and she is likely to be less lazy (Pisces) and more resourceful with her strength.

This is a better real-life example. If we see the Moon by itself in Leo, we say “Wow, what a cheerful place for the Moon.” Next, we have to look at the ruler of Leo in Capricorn. The Sun has no dignity in Capricorn so it’s neither here nor there. But wait! Capricorn is the detriment of the Moon and the Sun would receive the Moon very poorly. In this circumstance, we would have to say that Leo receives the Moon in its detriment and is weak. A person with this situation in their natal chart would counter their low self-esteem with pride, arrogance, and theatrical displays.