The term zodiac refers to a belt of the sky that extends about 8° on either side of the ecliptic, the apparent path of the Sun through the heavens over the course of a year. It is divided into 12 signs, each associated with a constellation and named after it. These signs are linked to astrology, an ancient practice that connects the positions of celestial bodies to human traits and events.
The 12 Zodiac Signs
- Aries (March 21 – April 19): The Ram, ruled by Mars, symbolizes courage and energy.
- Taurus (April 20 – May 20): The Bull, ruled by Venus, represents stability and persistence.
- Gemini (May 21 – June 20): The Twins, ruled by Mercury, associated with curiosity and adaptability.
- Cancer (June 21 – July 22): The Crab, ruled by the Moon, symbolizes emotion and nurturing.
- Leo (July 23 – August 22): The Lion, ruled by the Sun, associated with leadership and passion.
- Virgo (August 23 – September 22): The Maiden, ruled by Mercury, represents practicality and attention to detail.
- Libra (September 23 – October 22): The Scales, ruled by Venus, symbolizes balance and harmony.
- Scorpio (October 23 – November 21): The Scorpion, ruled by Pluto and Mars, associated with intensity and transformation.
- Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21): The Archer, ruled by Jupiter, symbolizes adventure and optimism.
- Capricorn (December 22 – January 19): The Goat, ruled by Saturn, represents discipline and ambition.
- Aquarius (January 20 – February 18): The Water Bearer, ruled by Uranus and Saturn, associated with innovation and individuality.
- Pisces (February 19 – March 20): The Fish, ruled by Neptune, symbolizes empathy and imagination.
Astrology divides these signs into four elements:
- Fire (Aries, Leo, Sagittarius): Passionate and energetic.
- Earth (Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn): Practical and grounded.
- Air (Gemini, Libra, Aquarius): Intellectual and social.
- Water (Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces): Emotional and intuitive.
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