12 Zodiac Signs, Horoscope and Astrology Signs Meanings and Dates

The word zodiac is used in Astrology to refer to the belt-like region of the celestial sphere which includes the apparent part of the sun, the moon, and the visible planets. There are a number of constellations contained in the zodiac, and these celestial bodies are said to be in a constellation when they move into the portion of the zodiac that includes that constellation.

In ancient times, the Greeks and Romans believed the position of the heavenly bodies could be used to predict the future, and for them, astrology and astronomy were the same – which is not the case anymore.

In astrology, a sign of the zodiac refers to one of 12 specific constellations of the zodiac that the sun passes through. You have probably wondered why everyone is psyched about zodiac signs and what their significance is. Simply put, a zodiac sign is a constellation that the sun was in at the time you were born. Astrology believes that your personality can be predicted based on your star or zodiac sign.

Here, you are going to learn about the 12 zodiac signs in astrology, in addition to their peculiar strengths and weaknesses. Each sign of the zodiac is different and unique in its own way and natives of those signs are believed to share similar traits and personalities.

When you look up your zodiac sign, you will be able to see your sign’s horoscope, traits, history, and compatibility. All of these details and predictions are possible today because of astrology.

While studying your zodiac sign, you may have noticed words like water sign, earth sign, etc., these are called the elements of the zodiac and they are used to describe how a sign feels and takes action. There are actually 4 of them and each of the 12 signs of the zodiac belongs to one of these elements namely:

• Water
• Fire
• Earth
• Air

In astrology, zodiac signs in the same elements are four signs away from each other. Astrologers call this place “trine”.

The elements greatly influence each sign’s character, emotions, and manner of thinking. Each of the elements is made up of three zodiac signs and we are going to explore them below.

 

Water Signs

Water signs are the emotional babies of the zodiac. They are heavy on feelings and can be as deep and mysterious as the ocean that makes them. Water signs are highly intuitive and have a way of connecting with others on a deep emotional level. They are mostly introverts whose company is most appreciated in secluded environments. They love getting intimate and are one of the signs of the zodiac that loves and cares genuinely.

Asides from the emotions and the river of tears, water signs have artistic souls and thrive so well in the creative space. They make good poets, writers, singers, and actors.

The water signs are Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces.

 

Cancer (June 21 – July 22)

Cancer is the fourth sign and the first water sign of the zodiac. Its ruling planet is the moon. People born under this sign are often associated with home and family. They are sensitive and able to perceive other people’s moods and feelings using their intuition.

Cancers always prioritize rest and reflection and tend to retreat often, just like the crab that represents them often retreats into its shell. They like to stay in tune with their environments, tendering care, protection, and nourishment to the people around them.

Cancers are moody most of the time. This can be due to their connection with the moon phases. They are emotionally intelligent and introverted, always keeping a small circle of friends whom they cling to due to the fear of meeting new people. They are mostly reserved and only open up when they are in the midst of their people.

As a cardinal sign, cancer is a self-starter and likes to initiate ideas.

Read more about the Cancer zodiac sign here.

 

Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)

Scorpio is the eighth sign and the second water sign of the zodiac. It is a fixed sign that is ruled by Pluto and Mars. Just like the scorpion that represents them, Scorpios are deep, secretive, and intense.

Scorpio is not an open book. Natives of this sign are usually very careful when associating with people and are straight-up distrusting. They can be possessive of things and people, especially the ones they care about.

Because of their shadiness Scorpios are seen as mysterious and unpredictable. And they can hold grudges for a long time when they are wronged or betrayed.

Read more about the Scorpio zodiac sign here.

 

Pisces (February 19 – March 20)

Pisces is the twelfth and the final sign of the Zodiac. Pisces is a mutable sign that is ruled by Neptune and Jupiter. The Symbol is represented by two fishes facing opposite directions; a symbol that reflects their ambivalent nature.

Pisces swim in an ocean of emotion, and its members are sensitive to words and actions. This is why they tend to close themselves off, so they can guard their emotions at all costs.

Pisces are real people. They don’t seek outside validations and certainly do not care much about other people’s opinions of them. They are artistic in nature, using different forms of art to express themselves creatively and also escape reality.

Pisces are deeply connected to their inner selves as well as the world around them through meditation. They focus all their energy on the bigger things of life and tend to manifest things with their positivity.

Read more about the Pisces zodiac sign here.

 

Fire Signs

Fire signs are renowned for their passion, spontaneity, and competitive spirits. Just think of them as a literal fire – fiery, aggressive, and sometimes, destructive. Fire signs are driven to succeed and don’t mind hopping from one unfinished project to another because they have a problem with keeping at one thing for a long time. If they don’t get bored in the middle of a project, then they are not Fire signs.

Fires signs are practical. They believe in doing rather than imagining or thinking. They give their all to whatever they are doing – at least while it lasts. They are original and self-sufficient, this is why it is possible for them to work solo or lead in a group.

The three fire signs are Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius.

 

Aries (March 21 – April 19)

Aries is the first sign of the zodiac. It is a cardinal sign that is ruled by Mars, and its astrological symbol is represented by the ram constellation whose horns symbolize virility and aggression, as well as the “head-on” approach that Aries take to problem-solving.

As the sign of spring and new beginnings, Aries natives are pioneers. They are impulsive and tend to take action before thinking about it, which can often be detrimental.

Asides from their incredible leadership skills, they have some of the best personalities in the zodiacs. Being a cardinal sign, Aries folks are perfect planners and great team leaders. They are good at initiating projects and like being consulted for tough decisions.

Read more about the Aries zodiac sign here.

 

Leo (July 23 – August 22)

Leo is the fifth sign and the second fire sign of the zodiac. It is a fixed sign that is ruled by the sun, with the Lion as its astrological symbol.

Leo natives are fiery and confident people who love to be the center of attention. They are crowd-pleasing folks whose desire for attention forces them to be great performers and entertainers. They are high-spirited, theatrical, and passionate. And are delighted to embrace their regal status.

Leos don’t like it when people are being maltreated, this is why they are always quick to stand up for those who are being treated unfairly. They can be extremely controlling of others and often possessive.

Leos are the life of the party, and there is no dull moment with them. They love to fill the room with warmth and love so that everyone feels welcome and comfortable.

Read more about the Leo zodiac sign here.

 

Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)

Sagittarius is the ninth sign and the last fire sign of the zodiac. It is a mutable sign that is ruled by Jupiter. The Sagittarius astrological symbol is represented by a centaur named Chiron pointing a bow and arrow toward the sky.

Sagittarius natives are loyal, sophisticated, and kind. They often come off as blunt but would not take things to heart as they tend to let things drop as soon as the moment is over.

Sagittarians are creatives and great storytellers who use their good sense of humor to attract and entertain people. They are philosophical in nature with an adventurous spirit that propels them forward in search of knowledge and truth.

Read more about the Sagittarius zodiac sign here.

 

Earth Signs

Earth signs are the most grounded people on the planet. They know how to keep it real with anyone. They are easily adjustable and can be very materialistic.

Earth signs are pragmatic, practical, and unwavering. They are the kind of friends you can always count on when a project is kicking your ass. They are not as unreliable as the air signs or emotionally attached like the water signs. They think with their heads and are well in tune with their senses.

The three earth signs of the zodiac are strategic in nature and somewhat uptight. They are determined and focused on their work. They may appear serious or uninterested in socializing but they truly just want to be around people who share the same views and beliefs as them.

The three earth signs are: Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn

 

Taurus (April 20 – May 20)

Taurus is the second sign and the first earth sign of the zodiac. It is a fixed sign that is ruled by Venus with its astrological symbol represented by a bull.

The influence of Venus on Taurus makes this earth sign the most sensual of the zodiac. They are not in a hurry; this is why they will rather take their time to enjoy life moment by moment.

Talk about food, aesthetic environments, money, and nostalgic feeling, and you’ve found Taurus. They are honest people who give their most authentic opinions when consulted; even though they are often regarded as blunt.

Taurus natives are determined folks who cannot stand obstructions when they are trying to move forward in life.

Read more about the Taurus zodiac sign here.

 

Virgo (August 23 – September 22)

Virgo is the sixth sign and the second earth sign of the zodiac. It is a mutable sign that is ruled by mercury, and its astrological symbol is represented by the virgin – not the literal virgin, sorry.

As an earth sign, we already know that Virgos are well-grounded, but it doesn’t end there. They are lovers of knowledge and service. And you know what that means? They are kind and humble. Natives of Virgo have a knack for communication, and would rather talk things out than hold grudges or resent anyone.

Virgos attached their happiness and sense of purpose to their accomplishments. In order to feel like they are being useful in life, they have to keep doing productive with their time, and in most cases, this can mean being at the service of others.

Read more about the Virgo Zodiac sign here.

 

Capricorn (December 22 to January 19)

Capricorn is the tenth sign and the last earth sign of the zodiac. It is a cardinal sign that is ruled by Saturn. The Capricorn symbol is represented by a Sea-Goat — a half-goat, half-fish symbol which reflects the complicated dual personality of Capricorns.

Capricorns have a really interesting personality. They are considered the most determined among the zodiac signs, with a lot of traits that make them special. To them, life is all about goals and ambitions; if it’s more or less than that, count them out. They have their aim in life and they will remain focused until they hit it. They barely ever get tired of climbing the career ladder, and they never accept that the top position belongs to anyone other than them.

Capricorns are very hardworking and resilient. Where others go and fail, a Capricorn will go and definitely succeed.

Read more about the Capricorn zodiac sign here.

 

Air Signs

Air signs are notorious for spreading ideas and being master communicators. They are flighty and easygoing, meaning they can fit about anywhere. They are deep thinkers who prefer to look at things from an intellectual perspective.

Air signs can get along with anybody. They are free spirits and the chief coordinators of any gathering. Talk about social butterflies, and you have air signs.

Unlike the water signs, air signs, who are also in full control of their emotions, would rather keep them private. They are the folks that hold you together while they are falling apart on the inside. They don’t like showing their vulnerable sides and definitely do not like being a burden to others.

Air signs have a reputation for not holding grudges. They are information addicts, therefore it would only take a detailed explanation to earn their forgiveness, or they could simply let it go for their peace of mind. Be warned, though, that their analytical minds cannot be fooled easily.

The three air signs are Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius.

 

Gemini (May 21 – June 20)

Gemini is the third sign and the first air sign of the zodiac. It is a mutable sign that is ruled by Mercury. The astrological symbol of Gemini is represented by a pair of twins, which reinforces that Gemini is a social sign with an affinity for gossip and a strong need for mental and physical stimulation.

Honestly, Geminis can be anything. It is difficult to explain their personality given that it can vary all the time. However, as an air sign, Geminis are naturally fun people to be around; there is hardly any dull moment with one. They have the ingredients to drive a conversation even when what is being talked about doesn’t mean any more to them than the process of it.

Geminis have a reputation for being heavy gossips and unreliable friends. Where there is free information flying around, you will definitely spot a Gemini spreading its wings for a big catch.

Read more about the Gemini zodiac sign here.

 

Libra (September 23 – October 22)

Libra is the seventh sign and the second air sign of the zodiac. It is a cardinal sign that is ruled by Venus. The astrological symbol of Libra is represented by the scales, making it the only sign of the zodiac with an inanimate symbol.

Libras represent life in its perfect balance. They are like the two sides of the same coin. Hardworking and lazy. Extroverted and introverted. Sociable and private. And the list continues.

They take a laid-back approach to life; always prioritizing rest and relaxation over anything. They understand that some situations are beyond their control, so when such time comes, they will sit back and wait for fate to meet them right where they are. Libras are analytical and skeptical. They are not easily deceived or fooled. They don’t see any point in holding grudges, and will always forgive and let go before you know it.

Read more about the Libra zodiac sign here.

 

Aquarius (January 21 – February 19)

Aquarius is the eleventh sign and the last air sign of the zodiac. It is s a fixed sign that is ruled by Uranus. The astrological symbol of Aquarius is represented by the Water Bearer, a mystical being that pours water onto earth to nourish it.

Aquarius natives are progressive, idealistic, and unique. They are committed to making a huge impact in the world. Aquarians are big thinkers and like to focus on the big picture in life.

Aquarians are driven by the spirit of egalitarianism and love participating in communities to effect positive changes even though they tend to neglect their own families. They are very original and nonconforming which makes them often perceived as quirky. They can be upfront and brutal with words. They really don’t care, to be honest.

Read more about the Aquarius zodiac sign here.

 

Zodiac Sign Compatibility in Love and Relationship

Astrological compatibility compares relationships between signs using their natal horoscopes. Here is one thing you should know, there are no incompatible signs in astrology. Two signs can either be more or less compatible with each other.

It will be very easy for two signs that are compatible to get along either in platonic friendship or relationship, or both. This is because they are on the same wavelength. However, when it comes to signs that are less compatible, there needs to be understanding, communication, and a lot of compromises in order for them to achieve a happy and harmonious relationship.

As we already know, all zodiac signs belong to one of the four elements, which helps determine who the best match for whom is. Generally, signs within the same element are compatible, and some from other elements may add an extra spark if their energies are the same or complementary.

Meanwhile, it can be hard for a sign in one element to get along with all the signs in another element. This is because they may not understand each other or one may be too sensitive for the other.

The 12 zodiac signs belong to the following groups of elements:

Water: Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces.

Fire: Aries, Leo, Sagittarius.

Earth: Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn.

Air: Gemini, Libra, Aquarius.

 

Water Signs Compatibility

Water signs (Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces) are compatible with each other because they speak the same emotional language and can intuitively understand each other. Since water nourishes the earth, it makes great sense how water signs are also compatible with earth signs (Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn).

 

Fire Signs Compatibility

Fire signs (Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius) get along so well with each other because they burn with the same passion and intensity. Fire signs also make a great match with air signs (Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius), because the air signs inspire them to live freely.

 

Earth Signs Compatibility

Earth signs (Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn) hit it off sensually with each other. There is no tussle and hassle. Just two couples who have the same love interest at heart. They are also a good match for sensitive water signs (Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces) who just need a partner that will understand them the way they want to be understood.

 

Air Signs Compatibility

The spirits of the zodiac (Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius) know what makes each other tick so they make an interesting pair with each other. Similarly, air signs are highly compatible with fire signs (Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius) because, of course, air feeds the fire.

 

Chinese Astrology

Chinese astrology is based on traditional astronomy, and its development is tied to the astronomy which came to flourish during the Han Dynasty.

Similar to Western astrology, Chinese astrology has 12 zodiac signs which are represented by animals, each with its own attributes. But, while the former last four weeks per season, the latter lasts all year long.

The Chinese zodiac, or Shengxiao, is one of the oldest known horoscope systems in the world. And according to Chinese astrology, each of these 12 animals represents the year of a person’s birth. They are the Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig.

Additionally, Chinese astrology has five elements of nature namely: Water, wood, fire, earth, and metal.

Chinese astrology uses the position of the Sun and Moon at the time of a person’s birth to determine their destiny. And they believe that a person’s horoscope, personality, and love compatibility are closely associated with their Chinese zodiac sign, which is determined by their year of birth.

 

Vedic Astrology

Vedic Astrology is also known as Jyotish. The word “Vedic” means “Knowledge of truth” while the word “Jyotish” is formed from two words: Jyot which means Light and Isht which means God. Hence, Vedic Jyotish means “True Light of God”. Jyotish is also known as an “eye” because it allows us to understand our past, present, and future and also reveals our personality traits.

Vedic Astrology is a traditional Hindu system of astrology or astronomy rooted in these religious texts called the Atharva-Veda. The main scriptures are believed to be written by Bhrigu, a sage known as the father of Vedic astrology, during the Vedic era.

Vedic astrology explains the planetary motions and positions with respect to time. It has four main branches: Financial Astrology, Medical Astrology, Auspicious Time Astrology, and Prashna Astrology.

Just like Western astrology, Vedic astrology focuses on time and space and features the same 12 zodiac signs, but one of their differences lies in their understanding of the positions of the constellation. What this means is that a person who is a flighty Gemini in Western might be a sensual Taurus in Vedic astrology.

More so, Vedic astrology uses the fixed zodiac and takes into account the other aspect of the galaxy. And while Western astrology is more sun-focused and psychological, Vedic astrology focuses on the moon and an individual’s karma, dharma, and unique life path.

 

Mayan Astrology

Mayan astrology is a variation of Mesoamerican astrology that is based on the Mayan calendar. It is one of the most forward-thinking kinds of astrology of its time. Also known as Tzolk’in, the Mayan calendar is based on the intangible energy of the cosmos and the evolution of creation.

The Mayan calendar, or Tzolk’in, is made up of twenty-day signs (solar tribes) and thirteen Galactic numbers, making a 260-day calendar year.

Ancient Mayans believed that in order for one to find balance in life, one must have to understand and align oneself with universal energy. Each of these twenty signs represents a day in a Mayan calendar, therefore allowing individuals of different months and years to share the same day glyph.

Essentially, one’s Mayan day sign defines his or her personality.

Why do we believe in Astrology?

I think the question should be, why do people believe in superstitions? Human beings find astrology desirable because it offers them a glimpse into their future. People want to understand themselves. They want to know why they act the way they do and what the universe has in store for them. This information and assurance are one of their own ways to feel connected to the entire cosmos.

Astrology believes that everything in life happens for a reason, and not by coincidence. It is in this light that we, the ones who consult astrology, believe that everything which happens to us, even the smallest or seemingly most insignificant event, happens for some particular reason. Thus, we run to astrology because it claims to provide us with answers as to why they happen.

Astrology works. Astrologers probably don’t. Think of it this way, most of the people who visit astrologers to have their horoscopes read to them end up feeling satisfied and fulfilled. What does this tell us exactly? It’s not that the astrologers have accurately predicted the individual’s future or present based on their horoscope dates, but that visiting an astrologer or having a horoscope cast can be a fulfilling and personally satisfying experience.

The Earth is positioned under the constellations that were known as our star signs millenniums ago. Although signs don’t coincide with the constellations anymore, we are still under the influence of seasons and planetary movements in the same way as we were back then.

Most people still follow their horoscopes and believe in the meanings of their astrology signs. We are not the least surprised to see this, since astrology is widely popular and everyone in the world knows about their horoscope dates and signs. People enjoy reading their horoscope signs forecasts and this often leads to changes in personalities, behaviors, and decision-making processes.

Astrology comes through for people in so many ways, especially the part where it lets them know of the obstacles they may encounter in the future. Whether or not they choose to believe the advice and precautions suggested in a horoscope reading in order to save themselves is now up to them.

Some People believe in astrology because others before them did and curiosity is basic human nature. But the further we delve into astrology, the more clear things become and the better we understand. We can connect zodiac signs to almost all aspects of our lives and we will see they are truly insightful and correct. Our horoscopes are unique and they can help us find and reveal our strengths, weaknesses as well as natural qualities.

Astrology can also help us find out about our relationship compatibility and which partner is a good match for us. Horoscope compatibility can improve our relationships with other zodiac signs. By understanding ourselves and knowing about our love potential and expectations, we can make the best use of opportunities and take appropriate measures that will lead to a happy love or married life.

Finally, astrology is about us, and that is why we believe in it. The horoscope is like a blueprint of our lives that got created precisely at the time we were born. Thus, our birth chart is almost as unique as our fingerprints. Each planet’s placement in a person’s horoscope can reveal a lot about their personality and destiny.