Conjunction
The conjunction is the strongest astrological aspect: two or more planets located in the same zodiacal position (0° separation). The psychic functions represented by those planets fuse, mutually amplifying for better or worse depending on the planets involved.
Origin and technique
The conjunction is one of the five major aspects codified by Ptolemy in his Tetrabiblos (2nd century AD). Its orb (tolerance margin) is generally ±8 to ±10 degrees: two planets at 5° distance are considered in applying conjunction, especially if they involve the Sun or Moon. The tighter the conjunction, the stronger the effect.
The conjunction is the most ambiguous aspect: it is neither harmonic nor tense in itself. Its nature depends on the planets involved. Sun-Jupiter in conjunction: expansive shine, optimism, luck (harmonious combination). Mars-Saturn in conjunction: blocking of energy, chronic frustration, active depression (tense combination). Venus-Mars in conjunction: intense amorous passion, strong erotic chemistry.
How it manifests
When two planets are in conjunction in your natal chart, their psychic functions operate as a unit. A person with Sun-Mercury conjunction thinks with their identity (mind unified with the self); one with Moon-Venus conjunction feels from love (emotion and affection fused); one with Mars-Pluto conjunction has a desire intensity almost impossible to contain.
Multiple conjunctions (three or more planets in the same sign and very close) are called stellium. They concentrate the energy of that sign enormously in the person. Stellium in Aries: life heavily marked by initiative, action, assertiveness. Stellium in Cancer: life heavily marked by home, family, the emotional.
Also known as
- Aspect of 0°
- Conjunctio (Latin)
- Stellium (when several)