The astrological attributions of the Arabic geomancy figures

My series on the Arabic meanings of the Geomantic figures continues looking at the attributions of the figures to their astrological meanings. This is yet another element which must be layered on to a reading to give it the figures meaning. These attributions assume that the astrological meanings arrived in Europe correctly which is a tall order. However, these have worked for me.

In my book Stars and Stones, I listed the Medieval Arabic names but didn’t explain their meanings. I was more focused on highlighting the work of Christopher Cattan, a Medieval geomancer who was more interested in astrological and elemental attributions. As I pointed out here, Cattan, like many other European geomancers, might have been hamstrung by literal translations from the original Arabic. Sometimes, the Arabic words might differ depending on the manuscript.

Here is a list of the 16 traditional geomantic figures, their Arabic counterparts, and their associated astrological attributions:

Astrological meanings

In astrology, each planet’s position within a specific zodiac sign influences its expression and the energies it imparts. Below is an overview of various planetary placements and their general astrological interpretations:

Moon in Cancer: The Moon rules Cancer, making this placement particularly strong. It signifies heightened emotional sensitivity, nurturing tendencies, and a deep connection to home and family. Individuals with this placement are often intuitive and seek emotional security.

Moon in Capricorn: Here, the Moon is in its detriment, suggesting a more reserved emotional nature. This placement emphasises discipline, responsibility, and a focus on career and public image. Emotions may be controlled or suppressed in favour of practicality.

Mercury in Virgo: Mercury rules Virgo, enhancing analytical abilities, attention to detail, and a methodical approach to communication. This placement indicates strong problem-solving skills and a preference for clarity and precision in thought and speech.

Saturn in Pisces: This placement blends Saturn’s structure with Pisces’ fluidity, often leading to challenges in establishing boundaries. It can signify a need to bring form to imaginative or spiritual pursuits, requiring discipline in areas that are typically abstract.

Saturn in Scorpio: Combining Saturn’s discipline with Scorpio’s intensity, this placement suggests a deep, transformative approach to responsibilities. It may involve confronting fears, embracing change, and a serious attitude towards matters of power and control.

Jupiter in Taurus: Jupiter in Taurus emphasises growth through stability, material comfort, and sensory experiences. This placement encourages a practical approach to expansion, valuing patience and consistency in achieving goals.

Sun in Leo: The Sun rules Leo, highlighting qualities like confidence, creativity, and leadership. Individuals with this placement often possess a strong presence, a desire for recognition, and a generous spirit.

Sun in Sagittarius: This placement imbues an adventurous spirit, a love for exploration, and a philosophical outlook. It encourages optimism, a quest for knowledge, and an enthusiasm for life’s experiences.

Venus in Libra: Venus rules Libra, emphasising harmony, beauty, and partnership. This placement fosters a strong appreciation for aesthetics, balance in relationships, and a diplomatic approach to social interactions.

Mars in Aries: Mars rules Aries, enhancing assertiveness, courage, and a pioneering spirit. This placement signifies direct action, enthusiasm, and a propensity for taking initiative.

Mercury in Cancer: This placement combines intellect with emotion, leading to intuitive communication and a strong memory. Individuals may be sensitive in their interactions and value familial connections in their thought processes.

Mars in Gemini: Here, Mars’ energy is channelled into intellectual pursuits and communication. This placement indicates versatility, quick thinking, and a tendency to engage in multiple projects simultaneously.

Note: I am not keen on attributing Cauda and Caput Draconis to the nodes as they don’t fit very well.

What such a mash up might look like

So, let’s look at Amissio which is fairly problematic in readings as it means loss but it is also supposed to be a good Venus figure.

As we saw here  The term “Qubid al-Khārij” (قُبِضَ الخارج) translates to “seizure of the external” or “restriction of external matters.” In medieval Arabic medical texts, this phrase referred to the obstruction or retention of external bodily processes, such as digestion or elimination. Metaphorically, it can also denote a withdrawal or loss in the external world, symbolising a period where outward expressions or influences are curtailed.

Venus, the celestial body governing love, beauty, and harmony, finds its domicile in Libra, indicating it is most at ease and expressive in this sign. Individuals with Venus in Libra are often characterised by their charm, diplomacy, and a strong inclination towards balanced and harmonious relationships. They value fairness, aesthetic appeal, and often possess a natural ability to connect with others gracefully.

Combining the concept of “Qubid al-Khārij” with the attributes of Venus in Libra presents an intriguing juxtaposition. On one hand, “Qubid al-Khārij” implies a restriction or withdrawal in external engagements. On the other, Venus in Libra thrives on external connections, social interactions, and the pursuit of harmony.

This fusion could suggest a scenario where an individual with Venus in Libra experiences a phase of introspection, possibly due to external constraints. Such a period might encourage them to seek balance internally, reassessing their values and desires away from societal influences. Alternatively, it could indicate a challenge wherein their natural propensity for external harmony is tested by circumstances that limit their usual social interactions, prompting growth in personal resilience and self-reliance.

In essence, integrating “Qubid al-Khārij” with Venus in Libra highlights the dynamic interplay between external limitations and the intrinsic desire for relational harmony, emphasising the importance of finding balance both within oneself and in external engagements.

The Arabic “Qubid al-Dakhil” (قبض الداخل) is nothing like its Acquisitio meaning. It means “seizure from within” or “constriction of the internal.” In medieval Arabic contexts, this phrase was associated with internal distress, anxiety, or hesitation in decision-making. For instance, a merchant might experience “Qubid al-Dakhil” when feeling doubt about a risky business venture, or a warrior might describe it as the tightness in the chest before battle. In Sufi metaphysics, “Qubid al-Dakhil” could signify a state of spiritual contraction or a feeling of distance from the divine presence.

However, Jupiter is associated with expansion, wisdom, and growth, when positioned in Aries, embodies a pioneering and assertive energy. Individuals with this placement are often characterised by their enthusiasm, courage, and entrepreneurial spirit. They possess a gut intuition, are willing to take risks, and often find success through their bold initiatives. This Mars-ruled Jupiter encourages self-teaching and a proactive approach to learning, favouring personal experience over traditional instruction.

Integrating the concept of “Qubid al-Dakhil” with Jupiter in Aries presents an intriguing juxtaposition. On one hand, “Qubid al-Dakhil” implies internal restriction or hesitation. On the other, Jupiter in Aries thrives on bold action and outward expansion.

This fusion could suggest a scenario where an individual with Jupiter in Aries encounters periods of self-doubt or internal conflict that temporarily hinder their natural drive for exploration and growth. Such phases might prompt introspection, leading them to reassess their ambitions and strategies. Alternatively, it could indicate that their inherent assertiveness and desire for expansion may sometimes be tempered by internal caution, encouraging a more balanced approach to risk-taking.

In essence, combining “Qubid al-Dakhil” with Jupiter in Aries highlights the dynamic interplay between internal constraints and the innate desire for external achievement, emphasising the importance of aligning inner wisdom with outward actions to achieve holistic growth.