Mindful Heart Astrology: Libra

Our seventh sign of the zodiac is Libra. Represented by the Scales, this is the only sign which is an inanimate object as the other eleven are represented by either humans or animals. Libra’s symbol immediately offers clues to some of the characteristics of the sign. Always trying to achieve balance in life, the scales suggest a constant weighing of things such as fairness and justice.

Libra is all about committed relationships such as marriage partners, business partners, contractual relationships and significant long term romantic partners. This is not to be confused with “romance” alone since that falls within the domain of the 5^th House and is not necessarily long term in nature. Everything with Libra (Sun or Rising) somehow relates to relationship. In many areas of life, they see the apparent potential in establishing and fostering relationships, as well as the benefits of collaboration. The phrase “together we are more than the sum of our parts”, is very indicative of this sign.

One of Libra’s strengths is the ability to be objective, to consider issues with an impartiality that is unclouded by emotion. Initially, Librans may be mistaken for quiet or timid since they will hold back to observe discussions and people, weighing the arguments and facts of what they see in front of them before they actively engage and share their views. Once involved in the discussion Libra will employ the art of diplomacy, doing their best to ensure the relationships are in tact once all of the dust has settled. From their perspective there is always a way to compromise.  They see the bigger picture and the longer term view, making them great mediators.

Regardless, Libra will always look for the best and most fair solution. There is often a sophisticated sense of justice and charming diplomacy they will endeavor to use for the greater good. Fairness has great import for a Libra and they will strive to ensure just that. While “equality” cannot always be achieved, Libra will always find a way for things to be “equitable”.  They are often very effective negotiators.

Harmony and peace are trademark adjectives for Libra. They are quite content to go with the flow in order to keep the peace, often deferring to the wants and needs of others. Sensitive and empathetic, Libra has the ability to understand the emotional needs of friends and partners almost intuitively. Friends will rely upon them as good listeners, counting on them to provide sound and impartial guidance. However, in their genuine interest to achieve harmony and see others content and happy, a Libra doesn’t generally speak up and say what they would really like for themselves. This is one of their challenges…they are wonderful advocates for others but don’t often use their voice to benefit themselves.

Libra is ruled by the planet Venus, as is the sign of Taurus. There are some similarities between the two, particularly when it comes to art, beauty and the relative pleasures to be gained by them.  Where Taurus values these things, Libra is more particular about how they affect balance and harmony in their environment. They enjoy beautiful surroundings and, particularly at home, will want to ensure a kind of balance in their decorating style including use of colour and accent pieces. It is important to note that “balance” for Libra doesn’t necessarily mean “exact symmetry”.  There is a flow to how they see and experience things which is often unexplainable to others.

Associated with the 7^th House, Libra is all about relationship with “the other”. The sign on the cusp of the 7^th is referred to as the Descendant and is directly opposite the Ascendant (1^st House cusp). We refer to this polarity as the Axis of Relationship and it speaks to how we relate. To illustrate, consider for a moment the Natural House signs, with Aries on the Ascendant (1^st House) and Libra on the Descendant (7^th House).  Aries is very fiery, impatient and forward moving, often taking action before considering the consequences.  They are more “self oriented” and primarily relate to how things affect them. Libra, on the other hand, thinks about the whole picture including opportunities and potential impact in the larger sense. They weigh the facts and slow things down a little before making a decision and taking considered action.  Libra is more “other oriented”. Considering this example, Aries can look to Libra to understand the benefits of partnering rather than flying solo, and Libra can look to Aries to recognize the potential of putting some of their own needs out there.

See where Libra appears in your own chart.  Which house does it rule and which planets reside there? Libra on the cusp of any house might suggest the area of life where peace and harmony are particularly important, or where relationships factor large.  For example, Libra on the 4^th House cusp may suggest a desire for a happy and agreeable home life, and feelings of anxiety when there is discord within the family.  It could also mean the individual plays a significant role as mediator or peacemaker when there are challenges or issues at hand.

To highlight the texture and flavour of your relationships and how you relate to others, take a look at which sign is on your Descendant (the 7^th House cusp). Understanding how we relate is an important element in enriching our lives, and in helping define where and how we can more broadly affect positive relationships within the greater collective.

~ Jayne Logan