Libra horoscope

Myth and constellation

The constellation of Libra is fairly faint. In the northern hemisphere, it can be spotted in the evening in late spring and early summer, rather low towards the south, between Virgo and Scorpio. Its two main stars bear names of Arabic origin, Zubenelgenubi and Zubeneschamali, meaning "the southern claw" and "the northern claw": a reminder of the time when these stars formed the claws of neighbouring Scorpio.

It is the only sign of the zodiac represented by an object rather than a living being. Greek astronomers in fact attached these stars to Scorpio; it was mainly the Romans who made them a separate set of scales. It is often linked to the scales of Astraea, the goddess of justice represented by the neighbouring constellation of Virgo, and more broadly to the idea of fair weighing, an ancient symbol of law and measure.

Element, modality and planet

Astrology makes Libra the cardinal air sign. Air connects and circulates ideas and exchanges; the cardinal mode, that of the signs that open a season, gives it initiative, particularly in creating ties and proposing agreements. Venus, its ruler, also governs Taurus, but here it takes on a more social and more refined hue: tradition sees in it a taste for courtesy and for balance between people.

The seventh sign of the cycle, Libra opens the second half of the zodiac, opposite Aries: after the signs centred on building the self come those that look towards others. Its start coincides with the autumn equinox in the northern hemisphere, when day and night are almost equal in length, a natural image of its symbol. Tradition associates it with the kidneys and the lower back, often linked to the idea of the body's balance.

The three decans

From about 23 September to 2 October, the first decan is, according to the modern division by triplicity, ruled by Venus, ruler of the sign. Tradition sees in it Libra in all its gentleness: a welcoming nature, a taste for art, fashion or decoration, and a keen need for harmony in relationships. This decan is said to be very attentive to the atmosphere of places and encounters.

From about 3 to 12 October, the second decan comes under the influence of Uranus, the modern ruler of Aquarius (or of Saturn for those who retain its traditional ruler). Astrology credits it with a more independent and original mind, attached to collective causes, friendship and new ideas. The sense of justice is readily expressed here on the scale of a group or of society.

From about 13 to 22 October, the third decan is associated with Mercury, ruler of Gemini. Tradition describes here a more curious and talkative Libra, at ease in conversation, negotiation and writing. The art of diplomacy works mainly through words, with a great skill for rephrasing and bringing distant points of view closer together.

In friendship and family

In friendship, tradition describes Libra as a pleasant and accommodating presence, who likes to bring different people together and make sure everyone feels comfortable. It knows how to listen, ease tensions and find the right words in delicate moments. It is credited with an often wide circle and a real talent for invitations and outings. In return, it appreciates friendships marked by courtesy and reciprocity.

In the family, the Libra parent is described as gentle and fair, keen to treat each child equitably and to favour dialogue over authority. The Libra child is said to need a peaceful atmosphere: repeated conflicts affect them, and they appreciate being helped to express their own preferences. Among siblings, they are often credited with the role of mediator, the one who reconciles and seeks a solution acceptable to all.

The rising sign

The ascendant corresponds to the sign rising in the east at the moment of birth; it is calculated from the time and place of birth, as it changes on average every two hours. Astrology sees in it the façade, the spontaneous way of engaging with others. A Libra ascendant is said to lend a graceful appearance, an easy smile and courteous manners that put others at ease. Tradition also associates it with particular attention to appearance and a tendency to seek agreement before asserting oneself.