In astrology, each sign has a symbol that is supposed to represent the certain aspects that the signs have. These characteristics of the designs have derived from animals, objects, and even humans. Through knowing the symbolism and the backgrounds, you can get an even better understanding of each sign which can help us understand and interpret placements better!
Aries ♈
Aries is actually Latin for "ram.” The symbol of Aries is represented by the Ram which demonstrates the impulsive nature of Aries, it shows how they charge forward without thinking about the consequences. It demonstrates their aggressive and bashful nature via the horns of the ram. Traditionally Rams are the males of the species 'Big Horned Sheep' this represents the masculinity of the sign Aries. The horns of the Ram specifically show how they charge forward without thinking about the consequences. It demonstrates their aggressive and bashful nature. Their heads are the most emphasized part of their bodies, due to this it shows how they rule over the head in Astrology. The symbol of the ram is based on the Chrysomallus, the flying ram.
Taurus ♉
The symbol of Taurus is represented by the Bull, which demonstrates the slower and earthly nature of Taurus. It shows how once tempered it takes a while to calm them down, it also shows their more appreciation for food and the earth itself. Traditionally Bulls are more muscular than cows, with a very muscular neck, and a large, bony head represents the stocky build that the sign Taurus has. When angered they will usually charge towards whatever has angered them. This shows how once they have an eye on something Taurus will continue to go toward it no matter what.
Gemini ♊
The symbol of Gemini is represented by the Twins, which demonstrates their mutable nature of being able to both gain information and give out information. The two sides of the Gemini resemble the more chatty and gossipy side of Gemini and the more curious and wanting to know everything in a short amount of time. The symbols of 'the twins' derive from the twins Castor and Pollux, who together were known as the Dioscuri. The pair were regarded as the patrons of sailors, they were also associated with horsemanship. This explains why Gemini rules over short travel. They also intervened at the moment of crisis, aiding those who honored or trusted them. This is why Gemini rules over communication.
Cancer ♋
The symbol of Cancer is represented by the Crab, which demonstrates the nature of how they go side to side with their emotions, and why the sign Cancer has a reputation for acting sidling or in a cautiously indirect manner. Crabs are known to work together to provide food and protection for their family, this explains why Cancers are so family-oriented, and Crabs are generally covered with a thick exoskeleton, this shows how hard it is to be able to become close with Cancers due to their hard exterior and soft interior. Be careful to anger cancer as you may feel the pinch that they may do due to their defensive mechanism. This represents how although Cancer may not seem that tough their claws prove otherwise, especially when it comes to their loved ones.
Leo ♌
The symbol of Leo is represented by the Lion, The lion is a species in the family Felidae, which is the family with cat-like characteristics. This is why Leos will generally have cat-like facial features. And look better with hair that mimics the mane for guys. It also demonstrates the pride and leadership that Leo represents. Due to the groups of Lions being called Pride. This represents how Lions rule over pride, and them ruling as royalty over these prides symbolizes the king and queen that the lion and the lioness has, which explains why they rule over royalty. The lion has extreme pride in themselves and how they look, as well as they are the leader of the pack which shows their leadership, however, lions are also extremely playful when it comes to their cubs. This demonstrates the playful energy that Leo has.
Virgo ♍
The symbol of Virgo is represented by the Maiden or the Virgin, which demonstrates their pure intentions in wanting to help other people and their perfectionism. Virgos will go out of their way to make sure that everything is perfect and they will critique until perfectionism is there. They also do their best to give the best they can whether it be advice, gifts and even working hard. The symbol of the maiden is based on Astraea, who is the daughter of Astraeus and Eos. She is the virgin goddess of justice, innocence, purity, and precision. Within Greek mythology Astraea was the last of the immortals to live with humans during the Golden Age, Astraea abandoned the earth during the Iron Age. Fleeing from the new wickedness of humanity, she ascended to heaven to become the constellation Virgo. Due to this it demonstrates Virgo as an Earth sign and shows the dedication that Virgo has as a whole. Due to the purity that virginity has, this is also why Virgo rules over cleanliness and innocence.
Libra ♎
The symbol of Libra is represented by the Scales. The symbol of the scales is based on the Scales of Justice held by Themis, Themis is an ancient Greek Titaness. She is described as "the Lady of good counsel", and is personified as the divine order, fairness, law, natural law, and custom. Her symbols are the Scales of Justice, Which are the tools used to remain balanced. Themis also means "divine law" and to the ancient Greeks, she was originally the organizer of the communal affairs of humans, especially assemblies. which demonstrates the fairness and harmonious aspect that Libra hopes to achieve. This also explains why Libra is represented as the mediator or even the judge in some cases. They are able to view both sides and deem an even outcome for all parties in a fair manner. When it comes to making sure the game is fair, Libras will do anything for peace and balance to occur within their environment, even if it is to the point where they become indecisive. It also represents how if one side is more up or down than the other then they will do anything to make sure the scales are balanced and even.
Scorpio ♏
The symbol of Scorpio is represented by the Scorpion, which demonstrates their secretive and vengeful nature. Scorpions are known to hide in the sand. Scorpios also tend to be very docile creatures unless provoked by an external source. This describes how if you mess with a Scorpio they will pack a sting that will have a lasting effect on you, they actually like to be left alone in most cases. This also goes for their family and friends too. Scorpios will make sure your secrets are kept and they will make sure to stick by your side no matter what.
Sagittarius ♐
The symbol of Sagittarius is represented by the Archer, When Sagittarius is depicted as an archer, then he is classified as human, which demonstrates their need to find and dive into the information that they wish to explore. As an archer, Sagittarius is said never to fail in hitting the mark, because of the power of prophecy. Sagittarius can also be represented by The Centaur, but when represented as a centaur, he is represented by half human and half horse, whose higher intelligence forms a bridge between Earth and Heaven, and can also represent the need to charge forward and be independent due to their untamable nature.
Capricorn ♑
The symbol of Capricorn is represented by the sea goat which is described as a creature that is half goat and half fish. It is said to have connections between traditional characteristics from Enki, who had the head and upper body of a goat and the lower body and tail of a fish. The rough translation of Enki is "Lord of the Earth". The goat part demonstrates their need for stability and comfort. It also demonstrates their loner attitude of getting things done by themselves and pushing through until the work is finished. While the fish part represents how they are able to endure any type of harsh or cold environment, this shows their endurance abilities and their ability to be authoritative with the lord of the Earth title.
Aquarius ♒
The symbol of Aquarius is represented by The Water Bearer, The water bearer originated from the profession Water carrier. A water carrier collected water from a source such as a river, a well, or water pumps, and transported containers with water to people's homes. This demonstrates the futuristic aspect and the humanitarian aspect of Aquarius. The Water Carrier existed before the advent of centralized water supply systems. Aquarius wants to make sure all of humanity is taking care of even if the ways they may go about it may seem weird it actually works out just due to it being ahead of its time.
Pisces ♓
The symbol of Pisces is represented by the Fishes, because of the word "Pisces" meaning "Fish." in Latin. According to one Greek myth, Pisces represents the fish, sometimes koi fish, because of the story with Aphrodite, Who is traditionally considered Venus and her son Eros, aka Cupid. The fish "Pisces" carried Aphrodite and her son out of danger because they had to escape the monster Typhon, who was the "father of all monsters," Venus had owned their safety because of their Shape. As a sign of gratitude towards the fish, Aphrodite put the fish into the night sky. This first represents their ability to save and even heal people, It also represents the fluidity that Pisces has and their ability to be able to feel and absorb what others feel. Pisces also can represent escapism due to this and even romantic love.
I hope this article was informative and I hope you enjoy the next part of the series which will be the elements and their meaning.