A few days ago I got caught up in a discussion on the question: is Astrology simply a symbolic system or are there real powers behind those symbols.
After further thought on the subject and my perspective I feel that actually there is a middle view on the matter that is rational and a representative of a functional modern model.
First of course we could define symbol as an graphic image of an idea, ancient in the case of archetypes. Or we can raise the meaning to include Astrology symbols as representational images of power. The source of that power can be nebulous but evident from empirical data (i.e. Mars: energy/action). Data collected, in the case of Astrology, not from a single source or study, but from the work of thousands of individuals over millenniums.
On a related topic, the meaning to be gained from those symbols as they are depicted in an individual's chart is a matter of interpretation. Most current astrologers would probably view a chart and agree on interpretations for a number of evident themes. However after the obvious, the paths of their interpretations can quickly branch out.
The issue at this juncture, to me, become a question of the quality of the interview. Did the Astrologer take time to construct a social/family history? Often, once one has a fair grasp of the individuals history, those chart elements can make a great deal more sense. The delineations become alive for the individual, they can suggest true personal power and freedom. You see, the symbols may be objectively defined, but realistic balance is created when the subjective experience of the client is brought into the analysis.
I feel compelled to state that I do like the traditional keywords and references that have been applied traditionally to astrology signs, houses, aspects and planets. HOWEVER, those keywords and combinations of "meaning" need to be seen as "first scratch", a superficial glance that needs further study. Given time, profound insight can be gained by conbining a quality interview with detailed study of the individuals chart.
Subject to be continued, comments appreciated!
Power behind the symbol
Kev
Ok, I've had my chart done a couple years ago. Nice old lady, but pretty much seemed like a simple formula. But one or two of the symbols and the ideas she suggested proved to be really meaningful and actually have held some power in the decisions I've made since that time. Which leads me to think that the archetypes really need to be fully grasped by the presenter and the clients.