For thousands of years, humans have been looking for ways to explain the world. Two of the most basic explanations focus on observing recurring patterns in the natural world: the various forms that matter takes and the change of seasons. The study of those patterns form the basis of two grouping systems used in astrology: elements and modes. Understanding these two systems and how they impact the 12 signs and 10 planets of the zodiac is a crucial part of learning basic astrology.
Ancient philosophers used classical elements of fire, earth, air and water to describe and categorize all forms of matter. One of the Greek contributions to modern astrology was using the four elements as a way of grouping the 12 signs of the zodiac. Each sign of the zodiac represents one of four elements. The signs in these elements share common characteristics.
Elements and modes chart.
Fire signs are known for their enthusiasm and spontaneity. Like the element, these signs burn with energy. They are typically self-sufficient.
Earth signs are known for their practicality and dependability. Their “earthiness” shows up in their appreciation for material comforts.
Air signs are known for their intellect and communication skills. Their head is often “in the clouds.”
Water signs are known for their sensitivity and emotional depth. They are intuitive and receptive. Their feelings can make them sink or swim.
Have you ever eagerly awaited the first day of spring, or the summer solstice? If so, you already have a basis for understanding the connection between the 12 signs of the zodiac and the four seasons. Because we’re using the tropical zodiac, we look at the time when the Sun moves from one sign to the next to determine when the new season begins.
Early astrologers noticed that people born at different times of the year had different character traits, in much the same way that each season has its own unique qualities. The signs associated with each season were grouped into three categories, known as modes. The modes mark the beginning (Cardinal), middle (Fixed), and end (Mutable) of each season. Each mode contains one sign from each of the four elements.
Cardinal signs mark the beginning of each season:
True to their nature, these signs demonstrate initiative and leadership.
Fixed signs fall within the middle of each season.
Like the name of this mode suggests, these signs show steadfastness and a sense of purpose.
Mutable signs mark the transition between seasons.
These signs are known for their flexibility and adaptability.
Each zodiac sign has an opposing sign. These pairs are referred to as polarities. It may be easiest to visualize these pairs on a see-saw, balancing between opposite ideas or interests.
A list of opposing zodiac signs.
Often when astrologers refer to a zodiac sign, they will mention the mode and then the element. For example, Cancer is a cardinal water sign, while Sagittarius is a mutable fire sign.
The modes and elements help us see the bigger picture and find the connections between signs. For example, earth signs are more "grounded" personalities and share similar goals related to material goods and living in the real world. Fixed signs are determined and move slowly to achieve their goals, but they stand firm. This element and mode come together in the sign of Taurus, a fixed earth sign that enjoys having nice things and is willing to work hard to get them.
Understanding which signs oppose each other can help when looking at relationships between planets on a birth chart (see Chapters 6 and 8), or a relationship between two people. The see-saw analogy definitely comes into play in these instances. For example, an Aries woman in a relationship with a Libra man may struggle to find a balance between "me time" (what Aries would want) and "couple time" (what Libra would want).
Once you have a grasp on these three different systems of categorization, you can go on to learn about the 12 signs of the zodiac.