What Is the Meaning of Individual Degrees in Astrology?
Individual degrees in astrology make up the 360-degree zodiac, or wheel, of a person's birth chart. Therefore, the meaning of individual degrees refers to any of these degrees that are present on the zodiac. Most astrologers attribute specific symbols to each of the individual degrees and will suggest possible challenges, strengths or themes of a person's life based on the position of the degrees.
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Symbolism of Individual Degrees
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There are several different methods for studying the meaning of individual degrees in astrology. The most popular system for interpretation, however, is the Sabian Symbols -- a list of 360 human, animal, and nature symbols that each correspond to an individual degree in the astrological zodiac. For example, the first degree is Aries One and suggests "a woman rising out of the ocean in the embrace of a seal." The Sabian Symbols were created by astrologer Marc Edmund and medium Elsie Wheeler in the early part of the 20th century. This system has since been widely used to study individual degrees and their meanings.
Individual Degrees and Signs
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The individual degrees each correspond to signs of the zodiac. To find symbolic meaning when studying a birth chart, an astrologer will look at the individual degree position of the planets in the chart. For example, if a person has a sun sign position at Virgo Nine, an astrologer would then find the Sabian Symbol for this degree, which is, "an expressionist painter at work." Since Virgo is often associated with perfectionism and attention to detail, this individual degree placement suggests the person might be drawn to artistic professions that require a lot of detail, such as architecture or sculpting.
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Individual Degrees and Planets
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The individual degrees also suggest themes or symbolism based on the position of the planet in question. For example, if the Moon in a person's birth chart is at two degrees Pisces, the Sabian Symbol is "the individual's need both to ensure his future subsistence and to protect himself from aggressive social elements." Since the Moon is associated with the inner world and feelings, this person might be prone to turning inward and masking his or her true emotions in order to avoid rejection or emotional danger.
Other Considerations
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Most astrologers agree that the individual degrees are not as revealing as the entire zodiac chart interpreted as a whole. Moreover, the meaning of individual degrees is subjective and open to personal interpretation. To truly understand the meaning of the degrees, planets and signs, it's best to see a professional astrologer and ask for an individual birth chart reading.
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References
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