Libra

Origin and etymology

The name Libra is Latin and means "scales". It is the only zodiac sign represented by an object, not by a human or animal figure. Its symbol points to Roman Justice, depicted with the scales, and to the Egyptian goddess Maat, who weighed the heart of the deceased against a feather to judge their soul. Anciently, the Libra constellations were considered part of the claws of Scorpio; the Romans separated it as an independent sign to honour justice.

Libra opens autumn in the Northern Hemisphere with the equinox of 22-23 September: the moment when day and night equal each other. Hence its symbology: balance between opposing forces, reconciliation, scales. It is the sign that opens the second half of the zodiac, where the individual "I" (signs 1 to 6) meets the "you" (signs 7 to 12). Libra is the first relationship.

Libran archetype

Libra is the archetype of the diplomat and artist of balance. It contributes aesthetic sense, mediation ability, natural justice, social charm, taste for harmony and refinement. It is the sign of one-to-one relationships: partner, associate, counterpart. Its opposite sign is Aries: if Aries asserts the self, Libra seeks the self-other balance.

In shadow: Libra can fall into chronic indecision, complacency, avoiding conflict at any cost, depending excessively on the other to feel complete, aesthetic superficiality. The Libran trap is to live for the other and forget your own voice. Its karmic lesson is to develop personal criterion without renouncing the love of harmony.

Libra in your chart

If your Sun is in Libra, your conscious identity seeks harmony, justice and deep bonds. If your Moon is in Libra, you need relational peace to be well emotionally. If your ascendant is Libra, you give a first impression of an elegant, pleasant, conciliatory person. Venus, ruler of Libra, marks your relationship style and aesthetic sense.