Learn to Read Your Astrological Chart: The Basics

What Does It Mean!?

The Birth Chart

If you’re starting to get into astrology you’ve probably read a few things about the signs, the planets, and the houses. However, the second you look at an actual chart, you have no idea what you’re looking at. It’s confusing! I like to think of all of these elements in terms of a theatrical play. Let me break this down -

The Zodiac or The Directors

The zodiac signs are on the outside of the chart

The outer wheel of the chart is where you will find the zodiac signs. These are the directors because they are telling the planets what’s happening and what their general tone should be. The signs are also the ruler of the houses. Each director is influencing a certain scene.

The Houses or The Sets

There are 12 houses in every chart

There are twelve houses in every chart and these are the areas of your life the zodiac are directing, hence the sets. These include work, family, friends, relationships, your inner world, etc. The houses are always in the same spot, but the sizes can change due to the longitude and latitude of your birth place.

The Planets or The Actors

The planets sit inside the houses of the chart

The planets are the catalysts that actually bring astrology into action. They bring their own motivation, but where they are and what their directors are telling them obviously effects their performance. One house could have a lot of planets and other areas could have none. But this doesn’t mean that you suddenly don’t have that set or area of your life. It just means that the set is open to all possibilities. The actors aren’t bringing in their own motivations.

The Aspects or The Dialogue

The lines in the chart tell you how the planets interact

The lines drawn in the center of the chart are the aspects. These lines tell you what relationships exist between the planets. Some form harmonious relationships and others are bit tough. Just as in a play, the actors talk to each other and form relationships. Throughout the play, their relationships transform and the same is true in your life. Even though the lines and positions don’t change in a birth chart, the way you use them does.

Now you have a foundation for what you are working with in a chart. I’ve found this metaphor to be very useful when I give readings. It turns out all the world is a stage! If you’re looking dive deeper, consider booking with me.