Astrology Basics
Astrology Basics
Getting Started
Chart Structure
Types of Astrology
Planet Characteristics
Planet Characteristics
Visiting Dignitaries
Personal, Social, & Transpersonal
Essential Dignities
Aspects
What is Retrograde?
Sign Characteristics
Sign Characteristics
Ambience in the Room
Constellations vs Signs
Elements
Qualities
House Characteristics
House Characteristics
What's the Subject

Elements - What They Are

Aristotle's Four Elements

Age does not depend upon years, but upon temperament and health. Some men are born old,
and some never grow so.

-- Tyron Edwards


The four Elements of astrology refer to four basic temperaments: Fire, Earth, Air, and Water

They are also called Triplicities.  These vibrational patterns have a connection to every third sign of the zodiac, which form harmonious trine aspects to each other.

Webster's dictionary defines the word temperament  as a "combination of mental, physical, and emotional traits of a person; the natural predisposition".

And like many other human traits, the expresion of the Elements can range from mild to extreme.

The Fire Signs:   Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius

Fire is associated with heat and warmth, the radiating energy of life itself.  The energy of these signs is enthusiastic and strong, even overpowering at times. 

The Fire Element

The old adage "fools rush in" is often true for the fire signs.  It comes from a major case of impatience and a need for action.  

When Fire is prominent, don't expect things to be sitting still.

The Earth Signs:  Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn

These are the signs associated with putting the physical world to practical use.  The earth signs are especially tuned into the physical senses.  Patience, persistence, and self-discipline are the forte of the earth signs. 

The Earth Element

The need for security and material possessions is also evident.  However, too tight of a grip must ultimately be released.

The world of the abstract is not within this realm.

The Air Signs:  Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius

The air signs correlate with mental perception and expression, detached from emotion and material relevance.  Their focus is the transmission of ideas.  When they get too abstract though, someone needs to help them get their feet back on the ground.

The Air Element

Strong air sign people often speak several languages, are involved with writing and learning, and enjoy a great many social interactions.

But like the winds of a storm, they can blast your world apart with the intensity of their squalls.

The Water Signs:  Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces

The sensation of water is cooling and healing, yet it is also powerful and permeating.  What these signs have in common is their deep, intense emotions.

The Water Element

These signs live by feeling, not by reason.  They are connected to the psychic realm and understand the higher needs of the soul.

Because they are so tuned in to their surroundings, they are often hurt by things that others don't even notice.