What Are The Western Zodiac Signs?

When you think about zodiac signs, you probably think about the horoscopes you read as a source of entertainment, hoping for some fun insights about what is in store for you or who your perfect love match is. Horoscopes and zodiacs have actually been around for centuries and are a part of the larger practice of astrology.

Astrology is the study of the positioning of the sun, moon, planets, and stars and observing how these alignments influence our destinies and personality traits. It is one of the most popular divination practices in the world and its origins can be traced back thousands of years.

There are a few different types of astrology. Two of the most popular types are referred to as Western astrology and Vedic astrology. One may think that astrology is astrology so what is the difference between Vedic and Western astrology? The main differences are their origins and the type of zodiac that they use. Western astrology is based on the principles practiced by the Babylonians while Vedic astrology originated in India and is based on the Vedas. Western astrology uses a moveable zodiac while Vedic astrology uses a fixed zodiac.

What Is Western Astrology Based On?

Western astrology is one of the most popular types of astrology practiced today. It is historically based on Ptolemy's Tetrabiblos which was a continuation of Babylonian tradition. Ptolemy was an Egyptian astronomer, mathematician, and geographer who developed a cosmological system placing earth as the center of the universe.

Western astrology uses horoscopes to predict future events and understand personality traits. It is also referred to as sun astrology as it uses the position of the sun at the time of one’s birth as an influencing factor in personality traits. Based on the position of the sun at the time of your birth, you will fall into one of 12 zodiac signs, each with its own strengths, weaknesses, and personality traits associated with it.

What Are The Western Zodiac Signs And What Do They Mean?

In Western astrology, the year has been divided into twelve different periods, each with their own sign. These are called the zodiacs. This represents the positioning of the sun which is believed to have different influences on one’s personality. Take a look at the twelve zodiacs below to gain a better understanding of what they mean.

Aries

This is the first sign of the zodiac and it is connected to the element of fire and characterized by the ram. Those born between March 21st and April 19th belong to this zodiac. Aries are known to be passionate and competitive, which is exactly what you expect from a fire sign. They are loyal to the max and it is very difficult to get an Aries to do something that they don’t want to do. They are determined to go after what they want in life and others may have a hard time keeping up. They have a short fuse and have no problem telling others what they think, which may create problems in relationships and could come across as rudeness.

Taurus

Taurus is the second sign of the zodiac and it is connected to the element of water and is characterized by the bull. Those born between April 20th and May 20th belong to this zodiac. Taureans are known to be ambitious, trustworthy, and value honesty above all else. There is no lying to a Taurus and it is something that will be held against anyone who does. A Taurus has the reputation of being stubborn, but they do have an open mind for listening to other points of view, they just won’t change their mind only to make someone else happy. As an earth sign, Taureans are deeply connected to the physical world which is why they may value beautiful things or constantly seek out pleasure.

Gemini

Gemini is the third sign of the zodiac and it is connected to the element of air and characterized by the twins, Castor and Pollux. Those born between May 21st and June 20th belong to this zodiac. Geminis are known to be passionate, dynamic, and quick-witted and are considered one of the most emotionally-intelligent of the zodiacs. A Gemini is very good at adapting to different environments and having a very positive outlook in almost all situations. Geminis are very outgoing, but they are also deeply emotional and like to have time to themselves.

Cancer

Cancer is the fourth sign of the zodiac and it is connected to the element of water and characterized by the crab. Those born between June 21st and July 22nd belong to this zodiac. A Cancer sign is known to be emotional, intuitive, and may even be referred to as psychic. It can take them some time to warm up to people, but when the connection is made, they will be loyal for life. This sign may feel overwhelmed in large groups and prefers to spend time with a close-knit circle. Cancer is a very creative and spiritual sign and may be thought of as living with their head in the clouds. It is easy for them to fall in love and they tend to thrive when part of a pair.

Leo

Leo is the fifth sign of the zodiac and it is connected to the element of fire and characterized by the lion. Those born between July 23rd and August 22nd belong to this zodiac. Leos are known to be energetic, friendly, and courageous and this sign is considered the leader of the zodiac. Leos are gifted with high self-esteem but they know that they have to put in the hard work to be respected as a leader. Leos are very social beings but they are also very good at putting themselves first and will turn down plans if it is not something they consider as fun. They are very passionate in all their pursuits and love adventure.

Virgo

Virgo is the sixth sign of the zodiac and it is connected to the element of earth and characterized by the virgin. Those born between August 23rd and September 22nd belong to this zodiac. Virgos are known to be practical, sophisticated and kind and have a positive attitude to just getting things done. They tend to be shy at first and it can take some time to earn a Virgo’s trust. They are extremely organized and creating plans and to-do lists helps them feel in control and secure. Virgos are perfectionists and tend to expect these same high standards from others. As an earth sign, Virgos are very connected to their physicality and sensuality.

Libra

Libra is the seventh sign of the zodiac and it is connected to the element of air and characterized by the scales. Those born between September 23rd and October 22nd belong to this zodiac. Libras value harmony and are known to be intelligent, kind, and diplomatic. They tend to put others before themselves and are masters of compromise. Libras are very imaginative and make big plans for their lives, though following through with those plans is where they struggle. Libras tend to be on a constant search of self discovery and understanding who they are and what they can do to make their life the best it can be.

Scorpio

Scorpio is the eighth sign of the zodiac and it is connected to the element of water and characterized by the scorpion. Those born between October 23rd and November 21st belong to this zodiac. Scorpios are known to be passionate, independent, and dance to the beat of their own drum without caring what other people think. Authenticity matters the most to them and they dislike people who are fake. They aren’t afraid of controversy and are eager to debate matters. These traits can make a Scorpio seem intimidating, but as a water sign, they are also very in touch with their emotions. This hard outer shell is what characterizes this sign by the scorpion.

Sagittarius

Sagittarius is the ninth sign of the zodiac and it is connected to the element of fire and characterized by the archer. Those born between November 22nd and December 21st belong to this zodiac. Sagittarius is known to be generous, independent, and strong-willed who goes after what they want. They love travel and adventure and are natural born leaders. A Sagittarius always speaks the truth even when this may be hurtful. They are creative thinkers with infectious energy and are also very trustworthy.

Capricorn

Capricorn is the tenth sign of the zodiac and it is connected to the element of earth and characterized by the goat. Those born between December 22nd and January 19th belong to this zodiac. Capricorns are known to be hardworking and take control of their destiny. They thrive on rules and order and prefer to have strict boundaries. Capricorns value family, traditions, and are loyal friends. They tend to be perfectionists which may cause them to feel stressed as they try to present a perfect image to the rest of the world.

Aquarius

Aquarius is the eleventh sign of the zodiac and it is connected to the element of air and characterized by the water bearer. Those born between January 20th and February 18th belong to this zodiac. Aquarians are very unique and no two seem to be alike which makes it difficult to characterize them as a group. They are known to be independent and don’t like labels. They are considerate of others and strongly believe in making the world a better place. Aquarians tend to be good multitaskers without feeling frazzled.

Pisces

Pisces is the twelfth sign of the zodiac and it is connected to the element of water and characterized by the fish. Those born between February 19th and March 20th belong to this zodiac. Pisces are known to be sensitive, creative, and deeply intuitive. They tend to have strong gut feelings and can be considered close to psychic. Pisces tend to get along better with small groups of people and can come across as being very quiet. This quietness should not be mistaken for weakness as Pisces are incredibly strong people and also have a very strong moral compass. They are very observant of everything around them and have a non-judgemental attitude to others.

Understanding your zodiac sign can be helpful in better understanding yourself and your relationship with others so that you can find the happiness and fulfillment that you deserve. Speaking to an astrologer can help you gain a deeper understanding of your zodiac sign.