Modern Libra
Libra
Part
2
Libra as a Stage of Development
Libra is the sign reflective
of the mechanisms of polar function ‘par excellence’ and as a process, or stage
of development, this sign signifies the point at which the ‘shadow’, or at least
some form of imbalance, is often to be met and addressed.
In what is even a modern ‘psychological’ cliché
regarding this zodiacal figure, here lies the themes regarding the complexity of
harmonising the experience of relationships, particularly concerning
polarised aspects of the psyche. The relating principles of this sign can tend
to reflect the promoting of an involvement with the disowned content of the
psyche, that which is alien to one’s ego-consciousness and thus not identified
clearly within the self and the self-experience.
In the growth of anything into holistic balance, it is
considered that the polarised aspect must ultimately become seen and well-adjusted, or
well- integrated within the self, for the process to succeed in any
fulfillment. It
is popularly stated, in contemporary self-process style work, that the process
of ‘owning back’, the traits possibly ‘disowned’ in the self, is a crucial
dimension to the ongoing development of personal individuation. The nature of a
Libran phase is also a point which carries the opportunity for reconciliation
and such like, in the unfolding of any sequence.
In terms of the general
human developmental model, the thematic of the astrology of Libra within this
sequence, can be seen to correspond to the years spanning from puberty (about 14
yrs) and into a more self-responsible reality; which ideally seems to galvanize
at a truer maturation point, which is just out of the transition of young
adulthood (at about 28 yrs). Through this period, the dynamics of
relationship tend to come more to the fore, the young person is usually afforded
the opportunity to become more gregarious, via their affiliations and groups and
through other social symbols that are considered of harmonious
resonance.
The ‘other’ is also more
likely to be more noticed and early forays into the experience of relationship
and closer alliance can take place, as this is a time when social strategies and
habits are developed, tested and generally further reinforced, or modified. When unadulterated,
this cardinal/air zodiacal function is generally active, refining itself through
the different experiences of interaction, as an essential part of the maturation
process. The
individual is seen to be learning about the self through the other and further
defining the nature of their belief systems, regarding the self in one-on-one
social interaction.
“Libra’s ego and essence seems to grow by reflection; the
greater the audience, the brighter the mirror of his personality
shines.”[iv]
The
polar sign to Aries is composed of the element of air, within a quality of the
cardinal expression. When unmitigated, this ‘connective’ element is said to be
in an active state. Libran energy is thus generally actively promoted to meet
and interact; therefore this is usually one of the most social of the
signs.
Libra’s basic principle embraces the harmony
of cooperative, shared activity and such like. Those with this zodiacal sign prominent are
often very naturally aware of others within their immediate environment. This awareness of
relating may classically may make for a likeable, pleasing and fair-minded
person. The individual is able to be considerate of
others positions and points of view, thus due to this characteristic, modern
Libra has been nominated the ‘diplomat’ of the zodiac.
The Libran-type tends to learn and grow the most directly,
through transactional dynamics, as interaction is a primary urge of such
archetypal astrological energy. It is in the one-to-one dynamic of
personalised relationship that Libran awareness’s can excel, as there is
such a strong capacity to truly ‘relate’ carried within this sign. Hence Libra is
considered an ultimate sign in governing the principles of one-to-one
interaction and therefore the commitment of marriage. Libran-types are
considered to make great ‘partners’, ideally able to shift and adjust positively
to the sensibility of the ‘other’, on personal, social and business
levels.
The ‘airiness’ of
this sign represents the ability to consider, think and negotiate, rather than
just react unthinkingly and impulsively, as its polarity Aries may tend to. Generally the
expression of Libra instinctively seeks to
harmonise that which may confront it and thus may be creative of
sharing experiences, rather than separating or abrasive ones. Thus, well-balanced Libran energy may
coordinate things in an equal fashion, ideally for the balance of mutual benefit
and satisfaction.
Traditionally Libra is associated with a refined, sanguine,
‘courtly’ demeanour and this can express as a ‘romantic’ sign, which can
possess a heightened sensitivity to beauty, symmetry and art in general. A strong Libran
factor is also generally seen to be adverse to anything unpleasant, abrasive and
‘base’.
This
sign can often be very present in the charts of artists and also of those who
may generally express through relationship to the feedback of others. It is a potential
Libran skill to create harmony and ambience, which is driven by the metaphysics
of a motive to express the soul/spirit in the form. Therefore this can be an artistically
creative sign, especially in regards to line, symmetry and balance, hence the
association with drawing and design.
The Libran association with the principle of symmetry stems
from the essentially ‘intellectual’ perspective, which is also a part of this
energies symbolic dynamic. The unadulterated
Libran energy may be the epitome of impartiality, possessive of a delicate
equipoise, infused with the peace and harmony of the ‘middle way’, in perceiving
both sides.
A Libran-type is
potentially the most objective of individuals, able to observe polar aspects of
any situation and drawn to objectively equate and thus to potentially
harmonise any dissonance. Libra is considered the ‘pacifist’ of the
zodiac, with equality and fairness two of the main keywords. Thus this zodiacal
archetype is also connected with the law and its courts, particularly at the
domestic levels, where relationships, transactions and others are most often
involved.
When Libran energy is over-compensated and unresolved in the negative, it can become stereotypically reflective
of a very light, even quite superficial type of person. Due to the urge to
keep peace and be ‘liked’, a pleasing facade may therefore be often erected and
the individual may be highly social and immersed in relationship, but devoid of
depth and tangibility (especially on an emotional level). In the
extreme there is the type who appears completely invested in seeking their
‘other half’, in another ‘out there’ (or even another ‘thing’).
The over-compensated Libran-type usually
becomes too reliant on the projection and feedback of others, to give a sense of
the identity and the beloved may tend to become over-idealized, as a projection
of the self.
Such a person may therefore adapt the sense of self to what they ‘think
they should be’, particularly in attempt to remain likeable and to attain what
may perceived as pleasing, thus ‘loved’. Eventually it is realized that the ‘self’ has
been lost and often it is through a realization as to how resentful/angry one
actually is at giving the self to such an extreme.
Although this sign reflects all manner of polarization, the
afflicted Libran psyche is noted to hate to be alone and cannot bear the concept
of creating separation. This is the stereotypical face of this zodiac
sign often pertaining to potential thematic of codependency in
relationship.
Negative Libran-types find themselves often
in a repeating cycle of the same relationship patterns, usually not even
perceiving the similarity of the thematic between them.
This lack of perception is often due to focusing on the object of the
projection and not the self and then tending to focus upon the next other, again
any view of the self may become overlooked. Understanding the symbolic relationship
principle of the ‘mirror’ is also paramount for those with this astrological
energy very strong, as usually magnetized are those who may carry what one
actually seeks to develop, or heal, in the self.
Thus negatively over-compensated Libra is also often to be
guilty of the dynamics of ‘overlapping relationship’ that is, not clearly
‘closing doors’, to open the new ones. As a ‘masculine’, active zodiacal energy and
of the airy triplicity, the Libran activity does tend to be projective in
essence. This
very cardinal sign can become ‘busy’ and in this case, can never be left the
space to find the authentic self. In having a fear of becoming a single entity
and in being inherently adverse to solitary experience, the dysfunctional
Libran-type may totally forsake themselves for ‘peace at any price’. All stops may be
pulled out to promote the other’s well-being and needs, as long as a parting
does not take place.
Libra is also a sign that is considered essentially ‘soft’
(Venus rulership) in nature, especially in the model of modern astrology, the
fact that there can be ‘two sides’ to the symbol of the Balance has often been
completely overlooked.
Again, this is a
‘masculine’/’yang’, cardinal, air sign and a prime archetype of polarization,
thus is not only reflective of a sane, civilized diplomacy, or superficial,
pleasing facades and demeanors.
The sign of Libra
also concerns the kind of objective realization that can reflect themes of
conflict, battle, one-to-one open opponents, enemies and the like. Thus the association
this zodiacal principle also has with the likes of strategy and ‘battle’, in the
law courts, open debate and other realms of polarized argument. The holism of the horoscope depending, the
component of Libra can even stretch its symbolism of such an archetypal dynamic
into martial and military context, plus therefore reflective of the likes of two
players in any one-on-one game, from tennis to chess and so on.
It seems all of the zodiac signs that are classed as
cardinal active quality, can carry variations on the essential principles of
offense and defense, etc. Thus in the psycho-emotional context, those
with the sign of Libra very dominant and not integrated well, are most usually
finding issues with assertion and anger and such like.
Thus, not only may
one over-please and bend the identity, but find the self at the other extreme,
polarized and possibly forcefully relating, even from a position of overt anger,
therefore tending to push the self, even ‘undiplomatically’ on to others. This is not only a
zodiacal symbol concerned with themes regarding peace and harmony, although the
point becomes that the Libran astrology, even distorted into conflict, is still
essentially dealing with these principles. As according to the laws of duality and
polarity, often to know peace one may find oneself having to know conflict and
lack of balance, to hopefully and ideally embrace the potential equilibrium that
this sign is fundamentally reflective of.
The classic dynamics of
caring and pleasing of others that this sign is typically known for, in
actuality, can often mask a deeper agenda that is primarily selfish. This regards the
pursuing of someone to care for them, or to ‘care’ for, from the infantile
position of seeking to fulfill one’s own needs and self-definition. As discussed, this ‘cardinal’ sign is not
always to be proved that ‘soft’ in its expression and can be seen to become
‘socially aggressive’ and use its talent for strategy, most superbly in social
manipulation, for positive or negative.
Clever games can
take place, as the Libran-type can be so charming and polite in the general
manner and therefore disarming. Nevertheless, there can be a manner of
‘splitting’, or ‘swinging both ways’, when the psychological environment is
unhealthy, underneath such skills of veneer and façade, it is usually a
passive-aggression that proves to somehow be at play. This Venus-ruled
zodiacal energy can certainly attract and it is the intent behind the attraction
that becomes of note.
An example of such dynamics, when negative is captured in the following
statement;
“’You see how I want to please you,’ he says, ‘You must sit
back and let me entertain you. You be the audience, relax and enjoy my
skits. But you
must be attentive, c’mon now and feed me some good ‘one-liners,’ initiate some
activity so that I can react to it. I’ll be the complement to anything you want me
to be. You see
how easily I can integrate myself with you. You see how well we work together. You see how we need
each other. You see how I’ve
manipulated you into playing a role in my life.
”[v]
The greatest lesson that the modern zodiacal expression of
Libra may supply, is the recognition of the self’s projection onto others and
reciprocally, of others back onto the self. Thus those invested in this archetypal energy
are often particularly called to stand independently, individuate and create a
balanced relationship, first of all within the self. When there is more
inner accord, more positive and regenerative relationships may become
constellated in life.
In taking a point from the polarity of Aries
(instead of toxic Arian-style experiences leaking into the psyche through the
function of polarity) and recognizing the independent self, one must also
recognize the need no longer exists to compromise the self in order to feel
connected and get love.
Another great task for the Libran-type is often to admit
honestly to any anger and what this may, in reality, involve. There is quite often
the requirement to learn how to cleanly assert and express the self directly and
decisively.
Plus to see that confrontation and dispute can be handled openly and
functionally.
After all, the symbolism of Libra ultimately possesses the archetypal
epitome of adequate arbitration and negotiation talents. Rather than
polarizing extremes, the astrological gift of Libra is to objectively harmonize
them. This mentally balanced archetypal symbol is,
in its purity, concerned with the ‘harmony of ideas’ and the fairness/clarity of
judgment.
In its purity of expression, this astrological archetype may
naturally seek and apprehend the best of an impartial and fair state, thus may
add grace and charm to all that is touched. To ultimately fulfill the promise of
functional relating dynamics, it is said that Libra must balance and integrate
the elemental energies of the other three signs that share the ‘cardinal cross’
pattern on the wheel.
This involves themes regarding the sensitivity/emotiveness of Cancer, the
self-responsibility/reality of Capricorn and the assertion/independence of Aries.
Libran Energy in the
Horoscope
Libran energy is dynamic and airy, as a frequency within the
birth chart chart, tending towards generally projective expression, yet
generally of a Venusian tone. Planets and points wihin or on this sign will
be potentially drawn to somehow relate to other chart components concerned with
the cardinal quality and the element of air. Zodiacal Libra’s field of vibration may
contribute to the further workings of a birth chart as follows;
Planets
As an air sign Libra is considered to be a potentially
‘light’ field of energy, nonetheless it is cardinal, thus dynamic and active,
particularly on the mental/interactive plane. Planets within the boundaries of Libra may be
given a certain social urge; therefore they may turn their functions toward
interrelationship and possibly a more compromising mode of expression. The Venusian aspect of this sign can tend to
soften and beautify things, lending a tone of a certain malleability and charm.
This is also the sign of
the strategist and may reflect the objectivity of a fair-minded approach
regarding the planetary principle in question.
Astrological bodies and points in the sign of Libra may be
utilised rationally and with balance, often in the hope of creating
a sense of equanimity and harmony in their expression. Libran-placed
planets may express themselves best when things are perceived as in balance and
resonance. The
more abrasive astrological planetary archetypes are therefore, often not too
‘comfortable’, when posited within the stream of this zodiacal frequency and can
be generally indicative of much adjustment to integrate their dynamism.
Houses
The house cusp(s) with the sign of Libra on them can be
regarded as places where equilibrium and balance may be often required to be
applied or experienced. This is the area in
which there may manifest dynamics regarding the themes of cooperation,
compromise and ‘relating to’.
In the extreme, the
self may become lost here, in pursuit of some manner of the ideal harmony. Where Libra is
placed may be where the tendency may be seen, to ‘project’ focus from the self
and to seek relationship with the other. This place in the birth chart can be where
the desire to create the ideal ‘partnership’ may reside, if not, an ideal state
of relationship with something regarding the affairs of that house.
The Libran house and what it may reflect, is where there may
be the typical reflection of charm, refinement, beautifying and addressing the
‘art’ of things.
Such an area is also often where relationships and their dynamics are
somehow involved.
As well as the possibility of meeting the personal ‘shadow’ through the
affairs of the house where this sign resides.
There may also be the choice to
function, or experience, in the superficial impression, for instance, creating
‘acceptable’ facades in order to please. Or even to keep up shallow appearances,
usually in the pursuit of some distorted perception regarding the nature of
balance, or acceptability. As prime themes of Libra concern adjustment
and
polarisation, given the charts entire astrological picture, the typical
likes of vacillation, indecisiveness and ambivalence may manifest regarding the
house of the horoscope in question.
Ruling Planet
When delineating
Libran-placed astrological components in a horoscope, it becomes essential to
view the condition of the sign’s dignified ruler, the planet
Venus.
This planet’s
chart position and interrelationship with the rest of the astrological
components will greatly
colour and deepen the further
analysis of the sign.
Through this planet
values are usually constellated, thus are themes regarding what one believes one
is worthy of relating to, and as to what may be worthy of drawing, as a
‘mirror’, into one’s life. The overall astrological condition of this ‘lord’, or more appropriately
‘lady’, will shed much light on the underlying motivations, agendas and other
responsibilities, regarding the houses, points and planets involved with Libra
.
Other Libran
Correspondences
Physiology & Health
In the physical context
Libra is known as the sign that is the greatest potential ‘beauty’ of the
zodiac. The unadulterated archetypal symbolism of this sign is said to lend a
graceful, attractive and well-proportioned appearance (particularly in regards
to being involved with the ascendant/1st house etc).
Most often, those with Libran energy thus
prominent may typically present as well-groomed and tasteful in dress,
classically there is a refined, even slight, build and the individual is noted
to possess a certain ‘symmetry’ of face and form. Of course, not all Libran-types are necessarily model material;
nevertheless there can usually be a general sense of likeability, thus
‘attractiveness’ of some form.
As Libran energy is connected with aesthetics
and decoration, make up and accessorizing the appearance is often notable in
some individuals.
Sometimes this sign’s Venusian element can appear to have an extremely
‘frilly’, or ‘floral’ in the aesthetic sensibilities and expression. There may seem some
manner of over-investment in decoration and refinement and taste is still the
central theme.
As well as being contributive to ‘balance’ in external
appearance, this sign is concerned with maintaining the equilibrium and ease of
bodily function.
Afflicted Libran
energy is said to be reflective of forms of disharmony, which may cause an
imbalance in the system and eventually disease.
Internally the sign
of Libra relates to the kidneys and is also associated with the bladder and
urinary tract function in general. All aspects of the renal system come under
the banner of this astrological energy and this regards the distillation,
filtration, secretion and sublimation of urine.
Thus the health afflictions of this sign can
be related to these aspects and areas of the body. Via the relation of
its planetary ruler Venus, Libra is also connected to the venous system and
involved in the astrology of venereal diseases. The Venusian aspect can also relate strongly
to the appearance and condition of the skin, thus afflictions in the birth chart
may concern skin issues and such like.
Colours
This zodiacal energy is particularly connected to all pastel
and soft colours, especially the ‘baby’ blues, corals and pinks etc (shades
of Venus + ‘air’).
The shade of yellow-pink is a very Libran in expression and the
combination of blue and white is also considered a reflection of the sign. In the astrological
tradition Libra is also classically connected to ‘dark’ crimson and tawny brown
and on the chromatic colour scale, interfaces with the vibration of green.
Minerals &
Gems
Beryl, alabaster, coral,
white quartz and marble, crysolite, opal, jade (especially white), soft powdery
stones
.
Plants &
Herbs
Primrose, violets, pansies, vines, strawberry, watercress,
lemon thyme, pretty bouquets, well-perfumed flowers.
Typical
Vocations
The arts, music, fashion design, modelling, careers somehow involving
elegance and line, makeup artist, interior design, architecture, lawyer,
strategist, tactician, host/hostess, meeting and dating agencies, conflict
resolution,
counsellor,
arbitrator, diplomat, negotiator, consultant, advisor, sales person, public
relations, vocations connected to marriage and its associations, hospitality,
florist, those involved with perfumes and cosmetics, vocations concerned with
aspects of pleasure and harmony, beautician, socialite, debater, social
commentator, whose vocation involves significant partnership and such like, work
dealing with various aspects of relationship and partnership, weighing and
adding, work involving measuring, proportion and portioning, draftsperson,
engineer.
Associated
Tarot card
Key 8/11, Justice - a card of adjustment, equipoise and
return for what is ‘put out’.
Some
Modern Libran Keywords
Projection, transference, reciprocation, realignment,
reflection, reply, argument, strategy, one-sided/taking sides, opposition,
denial, contrary, complementary, social, transaction, intercourse, relative to,
façade, appearances, floral, ‘art’, weighting, contracts, deals, regulation
judgment, attraction, liaison, balance, relationship, ‘us’, ‘we’, doubles,
partner, companion, harmony, polarization, standoff, impartiality, tactics,
game-playing, adjustment, accord, pleasing, fairness, equal, sharing,
cooperation, détente, peace-loving, peace at any price, compromise, wavering,
swinging, ambivalence, indecisive, codependent, ‘nice’, beauty, refinement,
diplomatic, suave, charm elegance, genteel.
[i]
Monetho, cited by Firmicus Maternus, Matheosis, Bram trans., note #22, p. 305.
[ii] Ibn Ezra, The Beginning of Wisdom,
Epstein trans., p. 53.
[iii] Guido Bonatti, Liber Astronomiae,
Zoller trans., p. 22.
[iv]Alan Oken,
Alan Oken’s Complete
Astrology, p. 115.
[v]Ibid, p.
115.
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