Antiscia

Planets in antiscia are relevant for everyone.

If you would like to read an in-depth article on antiscia outlining its historical roots and relevance, I recommend Deborah Houlding's article on Skyscript. But simply put: antiscia, like shadows, are points reflected symmetrically around the cardinal axis. The cardinal axis is made up of the zero-degree (starting) point of each of the four cardinal signs: Aries, Cancer, Libra, and Capricorn. These points mark the start of the seasons at the summer and winter solstice and the spring and fall equinox.

Cardinal Axis

Because antiscia are reflections across the cardinal axis (an axis which marks the turning of the seasons) and because all living things respond to and interact with seasonal shifts, the cardinal axis is an axis or point we all share. Therefore planets in antiscia and contra-antiscia are thought to be felt or experienced by all.

Antiscia Contra-antiscia

While my monthly list of antiscia illuminates what is on the cardinal axis right now - meaning, in a mundane sense, an aspect for the world - it is also quite useful to note transiting antiscional points (to one's natal planets) in one's own birthchart.

With the example images above, Venus and Saturn are antiscia and contra-antiscia to one another. We can begin by asking what Venus with Saturn means? Love, beauty, and affection meets a need for structure, discipline, and practicality. Saturn cools Venus down; it constricts or focuses Venus' significations. Then we ask, how might this play out in world events or for us personally? On a more personal level we may ask ourselves: is it time to consider getting more serious about something we love, make a stronger commitment - or, is it indicative of a cooling off period, a time to separate or say goodbye to something we had previously been attached? How much do we need? What's really important? If Venus wants to create something of beauty or enjoy something, Saturn prefers it be realistic or have real world merit.

In addition to the monthly list of antiscia I post on this blog, I will periodically delineate planetary pairs. But even without my delineation you can use the list by considering what the two planets in connection mean.

I believe working proactively with planetary antiscia combinations can be a good way to harness the energy of the day, and it can also be a great way to learn, both about astrology and life in general.

If you find you need help with planetary pairs and keywords you can always refer to a book, some good ones include:

Combinations of Stellar Influences by Reinhold Ebertin

Rules for Planetary Pictures by Alfred Witte

Horoscope Symbols by Robert Hand

Feel free to leave a comment or contact me if you have questions.