4 ELEMENTS X 3 MODES = 12

There are 4 zodiac signs gathered together in a group according to 3 ‘modes’ of action. They are the Hindu ‘Guanus’, or western ‘Quadruplicities’ of Cardinal, Fixed and Mutable modes of action. The whole natal chart may be classified under one of these headings, or more briefly one can look at the combination of the Sun sign, the Moon sign and the Earth sign, which is the rising sign of the nativity.

Cardinal signs of Aries, Cancer, Libra and Capricorn, hold the angles of the natural zodiac, indicating the first out rushing of each of the elements at their purest and most forceful form. These signs correspond to the 4 quarters of the year and the beginning of our seasons where the Equinox and Solstice points are located. The Cardinal signs are active doers of practical accomplishment; the Will of the individual accomplishes by rapid movement, by impulse and enthusiastic outbursts of energy. The faults of Cardinal energy are restlessness, interfering, frequently changing aim and policies. All of which can be changed by looking at oneself and seeing the effect of one’s actions on other people.

 

          

Fixed signs of Taurus, Leo, Scorpio and Aquarius follow on from the Cardinal signs in the order of the zodiac and give stability to the previous initiative action. They may be likened to the midway points of the seasons when the air and conditions are well established. The Fixed signs are of a ‘feeling’ nature, it is the desire of the passions and the senses to find expression. The individual accomplishes by the Will of enduring strength, indomitable and determined self-mastery. The faults of Fixed energy is inertia, stubbornness, slowness at adapting to new circumstances or seeing another point of view. All of which can be changed by self-reflection and inner growth.

 

Mutable signs of Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius and Pisces follow on from a Fixed sign and precede the next Cardinal sign. The mutable sign therefore allows for change to take place between these two conditions and allows for a new start in the next cycle of three signs. They may be likened to the change of seasons, allowing a new influx of energy, yet quite unstable as they search for the new condition. The Mutable signs are of the intellect, which strives to make connections. Individuals achieve by the Will of the mind, by applying foresight and adaptability. The faults of Mutable energy are in their instability, unreliability and irresponsibility. All of which can be changed by self-reflection and inner growth.

Each of the 3 qualities or modes of action draws from the others what it needs, so that the whole can work efficiently in the mundane world.