Scorpio

Scorpio (Vrishchika—Scorpion)

Scorpio is the eighth sign of the zodiac, reflecting the cycles of death and rebirth. It is associated with the underground, and all that is not immediately apparent to the physical eye. This includes the physical world of hidden treasure; for example, the ability to discover or uncover gemstones, archaeological finds, antiques and so on. We make excellent researchers. In addition, this sign can be associated with the criminal underworld, organizations such as the mafia and those who expose criminals of all kinds. We make excellent detectives. Scorpio also relates to the metaphysical underworld, the world of our psyche (psychotherapy and metaphysical sciences such as astrology and palmistry) and our infinite soul. It indicates a willingness to search for the truth no matter how painful the process, and often results in our personal transformation.

Scorpio is co-ruled by Mars, the intense and passionate warrior planet, and by Pluto, the higher octave of Mars, relating to atomic energy and all power that can be unleashed for good or bad. We are reluctant to trust or let down our guard. Under the influence of Pluto, Scorpio is associated with the image of the phoenix rising from the ashes, which denotes our constant renewal and transformation, as we are forced to shed our old patterns.

Scorpio, being a fixed sign, reflects our resolute and unwavering nature. We are determined and can be stubborn. Therefore, change for us is not easy. Being a feminine, water sign, we can be ruled by our primordial instincts. Our profound emotions make us vulnerable. However, influenced by the passion of Mars, the warrior, we can be vengeful when we are upset. It is difficult for us to forgive and forget.

Scorpio’s keyword is “I desire”. In the context of a personal relationship, Scorpio desires commitment. However, before we are willing to make a commitment, we want to find out everything we can about our partner. As it is our nature to be persistent and tenacious, it is hard to deceive us or conceal things from us. We fear that if we abandon ourselves and share our vulnerabilities, we may be hurt. And we are not quite prepared to let another person have that kind of power over us. But once we are satisfied by our investigation, we will commit wholeheartedly to a long-term relationship.

The influence of Scorpio carries with it a weight of responsibility. We have a tendency to not accept anything at face value.  We have a probing nature, and like to get to the bottom of things. Therefore, we have a tendency to hurt others, often unwittingly, and can even be destructive. Because the influence of Scorpio gives us the ability to uncover a person’s vulnerabilities and weaknesses, we are responsible for not hurting them by misusing that information.

Scorpio rules the anus, which is responsible for ridding the body of solid waste. As such, it helps purify and regenerate the body. Scorpio also rules the testicles, which are the repository of the procreative fluid. As such, the energy of Scorpio is linked to creativity and regeneration.

Sexuality is an essential component of the whole process of life, in which we participate. Both Mars and Pluto are associated with creative energy. Mars is associated with sexual energy and procreation which, on a personal level, allows souls, both new and old, to have the opportunity of learning and evolving through the experience of being human. Pluto, however, is associated with an intensely powerful regenerative energy that is capable of benefiting—or destroying—all humanity.

Scorpio represents the area of greatest challenge in our chart. Scorpio is actually a triple-bodied sign: the scorpion, the eagle and the phoenix. The scorpion represents the dark, hidden aspect of our nature. In our efforts to balance the tremendous energies associated with Mars and Pluto, we may lose ourselves in the need to fulfill our desires, and become destructive. The eagle represents our potential to soar to a higher level of consciousness, once we learn how to be committed to a higher path. The phoenix represents our transformation from a physical to a spiritual being.

Each of us has Scorpio energy in our astrological chart. To determine how it can be directed, we need to understand the significance of the house it is placed in. However, the energy of Scorpio is highlighted when it is found in one of the following three positions: when Scorpio is the ascendant, when the Sun is in Scorpio, or when the Moon is in Scorpio. For example, Bruce Lee has a Scorpio ascendant; Jim Morrison has the Sun in Scorpio; and Oprah Winfrey has the Moon in Scorpio.