The 3 Qualities of Signs

There are many things which help us to get to know more about the traits of a zodiac sign and what roles it plays in coloring the birth chart with characteristics. Signs are not only associated with elements in astrology, but instead are also associated with something referred to as "qualities". There are three qualities: cardinal, fixed, and mutable. These words may seem confusing on their own, but when explained they give important insight in to how the signs behave and why signs of the same element may act so differently.

Cardinal Signs:

The cardinal signs are Aries, Cancer, Libra, and Capricorn. These signs are pioneering, starting things more often than they finish them. Words associated with cardinal signs are "create", "start" and "begin". These signs are motivated to begin new things in the world. Aries is motivated by cardinal energy to instigate new activity, while Cancer is motivated by emotional needs. Libra on the other hand is motivated more by the need for communication and balance, unlike Capricorn who is motivated by the concept of material reward. Cardinal signs are forward thinking and motivated as a group, and are the starters of the 3 qualities.

Fixed Signs:

The fixed signs are Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, and Aquarius. These signs are the ones who keep projects moving along after they have already been put into motion. They hold on to things and keep things continuing on the right path. Words associated with the fixed signs are "maintain", "continue", and "grow". These signs are persistent and hold on to things in life. Taurus is known to hold on to material possessions, while Leo is more likely to hold on to their image of themselves and their lifestyle. A Scorpio will hold to their ideas and their impressions of people, and Aquarius will hold tightly to their opinions. These signs as a group are determined and persisting.

Mutable Signs:

Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, and Pisces makes up the mutable signs. These are signs who complete things, and are ever changing. These signs will complete a project or change an idea at the drop of a hat to ensue that things get finished. Words associated with these signs are "end", "stop", and "change". These signs are known for their adaptability, for example Gemini has an adaptable mind and Virgo is adaptable in work. Furthermore, Sagittarius has adaptable philosophy and a Pisces's moods and feelings are always adapting to the situation. These signs are adaptable, changing, and completing as a group.

These are the 3 qualities and how the play out in the signs. As you can see, even though all the carinal sings are motivated, their natural house positions and elements give color and variety to what they are motivated by. The same is true for the fixed and mutable signs, no two are quite the same. This brings another layer of complexity into astrology, and while it can be a lot to think about at first, this complexity is what helps astrology to accurately convey information through charts. The more you study and interact with the signs, the more familiar with their qualities, signs, houses, and attributes you become.

Blessings