Mars in the Horoscope

Mars, the red planet, is a symbol of war in many cultures. In astrology it stands for aggression and personal power. It is a force of destruction, but also construction - the ability to get things done.

Mars in the Zodiac

Here are short descriptions of how each Zodiac sign influences Mars, your aggression and personal force, when that's where it is in your natal chart.

Aries brings a quick temper and a challenging attitude.

Taurus brings grim determi­nation and strength.

Gemini brings a sharp tongue, a mind set on intrigue, and a pen mightier than the sword.

Cancer brings a will to protect and dominate, a temper and a tendency to upset others.

Leo brings a strong willpower and determination.

Virgo brings mechanical skills, and little patience with the shortcomings of others.

Libra brings decisiveness and the strength to fight for one's conviction.

Scorpio brings destructive im­pulses and a temper that others dread.

Sagittarius brings energy to pursue distant goals and an unbending will.

Capricorn brings an unbending will and strong perseverance, as well as lots of stub­born­ness.

Aquarius brings sharp mental focus and perseverance in intellectual matters.

Pisces brings frustration and a sense of insufficiency.

Keywords

Here are the twelve Zodiac signs, and keywords for the character they give to Mars, i.e. your aggression and personal force:

    Aries   erupting

    Taurus   concrete

    Gemini   provocative

    Cancer   controlling

    Leo   demanding

    Virgo   tireless

    Libra   decisive

    Scorpio   upsetting

    Sagittarius   independent

    Capricorn   ambitious

    Aquarius   reluctant

    Pisces   frustrated

Mars and its traits. Woodcut by Hans Sebald Beham, from the 1530's.

Ruler

Mars rules over Aries, the fiery challenger, which means that it tends to be the most obvious and enforced in this sign. It exalts in Capricorn. It fits the best in cardinal signs, like the two mentioned, and prefers the elements fire and earth over air and particularly water. Therefore it is the most weakened and alienated in Pisces, and to a lesser extent in Aquarius. When Mars has a weakened position in the horoscope, it is very likely to cause some problems.

The love of Mars and Venus revealed by the other gods. Painting by Joachim Wtewael 1604.

Planet age

Each of the heavenly bodies represents a period in your life of about seven years. In the case of Mars it is the period of adult life where ambition and career are the most urgent, right after the solar period. That's approximately when you're 28 to 35 years old. The position of Mars in your horoscope reveals what that period of your life is like, generally speaking. It also tells you how you will succeed in your career, in reaching any far away goals of yours.

© Stefan Stenudd