Virgo horoscope

Myth and constellation

Virgo is the second-largest constellation in the sky, after Hydra. In the northern hemisphere, it can be seen in the spring and early summer, in the evening, towards the south. Most of its stars are faint, with the exception of Spica, one of the brightest stars in the sky, whose Latin name means an ear of wheat. The constellation is traditionally depicted as a winged young woman holding this ear of wheat in her hand.

The Greeks most often saw in it Astraea, goddess of justice, often described as the daughter of Zeus and Themis. According to the myth of the ages of the world, she lived among humans during the golden age, then, weary of their violence, was the last deity to leave the Earth and ascend to the heavens. Other accounts link her with Demeter, goddess of the harvest, or with her daughter Persephone, as the ear of wheat she carries recalls.

Element, modality and planet

Astrology makes Virgo the mutable earth sign. Earth gives it a sense of the concrete, of the body and of useful things; the mutable mode, characteristic of signs at the end of a season, lends it adaptability and a talent for adjusting, sorting and perfecting what already exists. Mercury, its ruler, is said by tradition to be both in domicile and in exaltation here: it is seen as a practical intelligence, attentive to facts and methods.

The sixth sign of the cycle, Virgo closes the first half of the zodiac, just before Libra. It corresponds to the end of summer in the northern hemisphere, the time of the harvest, when crops are gathered, sorted and stored: this image underpins all of its symbolism. Tradition associates it with the digestive system, in particular the intestines, the organ that separates what nourishes from what must be discarded.

The three decans

From about 23 August to 1 September, the first decan is, according to the modern division by triplicity, ruled by Mercury, ruler of the sign. Tradition sees in it the most characteristic Virgo: a quick mind, a keen sense of observation and a need to understand how things work. This decan is said to be particularly at ease with analysis, writing and anything that calls for clarity.

From about 2 to 11 September, the second decan comes under the influence of Saturn, ruler of Capricorn. Astrology credits it with more seriousness and patience, a taste for projects built over the long term and great reliability. Reserve is often more pronounced here, offset by a strong ability to keep commitments over time.

From about 12 to 22 September, the third decan is associated with Venus, ruler of Taurus. Tradition describes here a Virgo more sensitive to comfort, to the beauty of well-made objects and to simple pleasures. The concern for detail readily serves aesthetics, craftsmanship or the care given to others.

In friendship and family

In friendship, tradition describes Virgo as a discreet but highly reliable friend. It remembers everyone's needs, gives practical advice and makes itself available when help is needed. It extends its trust gradually and often prefers a small circle of close friends to a very wide social life. It is also credited with a subtle sense of humour, which is discovered mainly by those who know it well.

In the family, the Virgo parent is described as attentive, organised and concerned about their children's day-to-day wellbeing, from their health to their learning. The Virgo child is said to like clear boundaries, explanations and tasks in which they can feel useful; they would need reassurance that they do not have to succeed at everything perfectly. Among siblings, they are often credited with being the one who helps, tidies up and thinks of everything.

The rising sign

The ascendant is the zodiac sign that was rising on the eastern horizon at the moment of birth. As it changes on average every two hours, you need to know the time and place of birth to determine it. Astrology sees in it the style with which one makes contact with the world. A Virgo ascendant is said to lend a neat appearance, a reserved and observant attitude at first meetings, and a methodical way of approaching new situations. Tradition also associates it with particular attention to lifestyle and daily rhythm.