MARS

After the sphere of Venus, outward-bound solar power passes through the sphere of Earth. Here it develops as the life energy (prana or chi) that animates the biosphere and its material organizations. Earth is a pivotal planet in our view of the solar system, for we see and interpret the solar system from Earth.

Our picture of the solar system is thus an earthly picture, made possible by our particular position and function in the system. Earth is presumably the only place in our solar system where organic life as we know it develops, where a certain type of material organization is animated by spirit and develops a certain type of consciousness. As life in human beings develops a sense of self, this sense of self has to express itself through action.

This action is what Mars symbolizes. It thus represents the mobilization of energy, the capacity to do and to assert oneself. Mars has often been considered a negative symbol in astrology, but the capacities Mars represents are in themselves neither constructive nor destructive. Much depends on the value the Venus function gives to experience, whether Mars is activated in reactionary 'fight or flight,' or if it operates positively to carry out the directives of a centralizing will.

Nevertheless, where Mars' capacity to do is activated, so too may develop a tendency to force issues and overdo, especially when doing compensates for insecurity or frustration. In such cases, the negative aspects of Mars may operate as recklessness, argumentativeness, vindictiveness, or even open hostility.

 

Leyla Rael

 

MARS IN CAPRICORN

Keynote: Raw energy is put to work with sustained efficiency.

Symbol: A steam engine turns the wheels of a massive locomotive.

In Capricorn the driving force of Mars unites with the organizing ability of Saturn (ruler of Capricorn), to harness the forces of nature and put them to work for humanity. Mars in Capricorn is imbued with a conscientious regard for the gravity of its responsibilities to the total organism.

It operates purposefully, concentrating on the task at hand with a minimum of mental distractions and wasted emotions. This type of will does not struggle against resistance, but involves the smooth alignment and efficient utilization of all available forces.

If ambitions are thwarted and actions are blocked, Saturn's unremitting pressure causes frustration, irritation, and resentment.

When the psychic energies are damned up and there is no outlet, a slow simmering anger can rise to fever pitch and then explode into violence.

Increased ambitions are usually indicated by this placing, and will be of help where the attainment of objectives is concerned. It increases the powers of endurance; those with this placing can cope in physically demanding situations of the sort that are encountered on expeditions. If the career makes physical demands and one has to work where there is danger, the likelihood of silly risk-taking, which can so easily occur when Mars is in other signs, is certainly minimized.

As far as exercise is concerned, the endurance of the placing will be of considerable help to anyone who wishes to run marathons or swim long distances. Rock climbing and mountaineering often prove to be rewarding and enjoyable.

The Martian preoccupation with being first and winning may be expressed in the career, especially if ambition is shown in other areas (look to the influence and sign placing of Saturn). The chances are that the individual will be highly motivated toward success, and it is in this direction that the Martian energy will be directed, especially if it harmonizes with the Ascendant and with the aspirations of the Mid-heaven sign. There can often be a liking for power. Here is someone who could be a self-made businessperson, or who can spring from humble beginnings to win scholarships and succeed academically.

If very ambitious it will be important to realize that the risk of sacrificing partners and loved ones for objectives is omnipresent, and that it is all too easy to work to breaking point. This will be particularly likely if Mars receives negative aspects from Uranus, in which case the need for power will also be increased. Apart from eventual exhaustion due to overwork, the joints may be prone to inflammation, especially after heavy exercise.

Extremes of temperature may have an overly negative effect on the body; when making long-distance flights it is vital that time is allowed to acclimatize to any vast change of temperature as feverish complaints and sudden chills may otherwise result. Protection against malaria and similar tropical diseases is essential. 

One is likely to take sex very seriously, giving great consideration to the choice of a partner before making a first move.

 

Astrology, the Divine Science

 

Mindfire