How to Interpret the Sun's Role in Karmic Astrology

In karmic astrology, signs, houses and planets are guides to happiness and fulfillment. An astrologer looks to the planets, including the sun and moon, to gain a full picture of a person's personality and life challenges. When considering the role of the sun or its value for a person, the astrologer compares the way the sun is essential for all life on Earth. The sun is the dynamic force in a person's sense of identity, her ego. Certain questions illuminate the sun's influence and guidance in a person's life. In a word, the sun is life, astronomically and astrologically. For karmic astrology, the sun signifies who a person came into this life to be.

Instructions

1. 

   Look to the ego to describe the ways that your sun sign functions in your life, within the context of the whole chart. The sun organizes and brings focus. Who you are, your essential sense of being is the sun's influence. If, for example, your sun sign is in the sign of Capricorn, you may have a far deeper inner life that your exterior leads others to believe. You likely will function best in an organized environment. Your ego will hold you to that inner life and you will be challenged to extend beyond that sense of comfort and safety. Put yourself "out there"; jump without a net. You might be accepted or you might be rejected. Welcome to the human race.

2. 

   Consider your sense of self so far. How do you witness or observe yourself in different situations? How's that working for you? What areas can you see that need realignment in order to become an empowered individual who uses your talents in the most proactive ways? Case in point: Sun is in Leo. You are here to find your identity in the ways you express yourself. The sun is great for Leo; you radiate in its light and warmth. On the darker side, though, you may blind and overpower everyone else and cause problems.

3. 

   Look for evidence of dysfunction. The sun, aspected in certain ways, can reveal its shadow nature by control issues, egotistical behavior (which is different than healthy ego) and irrational stubbornness. When the sun casts these shadows, know that they are keys to open doors to inner freedom.

4. 

   Ask questions about your self-image. In what situations have you experienced a sense of wholeness? What unconscious assumptions do you bring to your affairs that color how you experience life? Strive for clarity. Let the sun shine in the dark corners and light your way to your true self.

Resources

• Karma Astrology