Capricorn

Capricorn (Makara—Crocodile/Goat)

Capricorn is the tenth sign of the zodiac relating to karma (destiny), heights of achievement, and the zenith of our career. Its keyword is “I make use of”. Saturn rules this sign—the planet of responsibility and wisdom, whose role is to build and stabilize foundations. As such, Capricorn is a lover of antiquity, history, and the classics. It believes in the tried and true, rather than experimenting with new ways of doing things. It does not believe in waste, and will hold on to things in the off chance that they will prove useful. In extreme cases, Capricorn reflects an inclination to be stingy and hoard things.

Capricorn is a cardinal sign, reflecting a far-reaching vision to embark upon new undertakings. It reflects the attitude that, no matter how long it takes, we will find a way to resolve situations in order to get where we want to go.  In the West, its symbol is the goat that slowly and steadily reaches the mountaintop. Being an earth sign, Capricorn indicates an ability to direct and manage, and make the best practical use of people’s energies, talents, and resources. Capricorn relates to authority, status, management, and big business. Capricorns make excellent bank managers in that they have a talent for putting people’s money to work.

Capricorn is a feminine, yin sign, reflecting a natural instinct for recognizing opportunities. In the East, the symbol for Capricorn is the wizened old crocodile whose amphibious nature allows it to move from water to land (earth). This ability is part of a survival strategy that allows the crocodile to hunt prey that appears safe beyond the crocodile’s reach. This capability reflects Capricorn’s tenacity to wait for the right opportunity before making a move. Capricorn reflects a predisposition to retreat into itself in order to review the past, analyze mistakes, and make concrete plans and strategies for the future. It reflects a mature, serious, and cautious nature, never underestimating or trusting the changing nature of ephemeral reality. It suggests a studious nature with a dry, sardonic sense of humor. The sign of the crocodile indicates insight gathered from the perspective of a solitary, silent, keen observer who has watched the seasons pass from the sunniest to the darkest. It is a mystical sign relating to the darkest day of the year, an auspicious time to go within, to be reflective and to meditate.

There is a danger that the energy of Capricorn can manifest in a workaholic personality. It can signify an Atlas complex where the weight of the world rests upon our shoulders. Although it denotes self-discipline, direction, and focus, we need to refuse to take on more tasks than can be effectively managed.

Capricorn relates to the foundation that supports the weight of the body and, therefore, is associated with the knees.

The sign of Capricorn relates to karma, which implies the desire for freedom to rule its own destiny. This freedom is best achieved when Capricorn is in control. It can use its initiative to gain the most control by attaining the highest position of authority. For example, the president has ultimate responsibility in a company but, at the same time, exercises the power to determine how the company will proceed. With this power comes freedom. However, it is important for Capricorn to exercise discretion in directing others. For example, as the president of a company do we use our power for selfish reasons, or do we exercise our authority in a mutually supportive way that benefits all concerned.

Wayne Gretzky has a Capricorn ascendant; Oprah Winfrey has the Sun in Capricorn; and Abraham Lincoln has the Moon in Capricorn.