Capricorn

December 22
Through
January 19

Ruling Planet

Saturn

Capricorn
Associations

Nature:
Negative

Quality:
Cardinal

Element:

Earth

Symbol:
Goat

Glyph:

Colors:
Black, Dark Brown, Gray

Metal:
Silver

Gem:
Amethyst

Flowers:
Ivy, Pansy,
Amaranthus

Animals:
Goats, Clove-footed creatures in general.

Herbs:
Comfrey, Knapweed

Mexico

Countries:
India, Mexico

Cities:
Oxford, Delphi,
Mexico City

Body Areas:
Bones, Knees

Principle:
Crystallization

Keywords:
Prudent, Aspiring, Calculating  
 
 

The Capricornian is generally a serious character possessing a wry sense of humor. Independent, steady as a rock, Capricorn reflects earthy qualities that range from clever to vacuous. Mostly cautious, confident, strong willed, reasonable and hard working, Capricorns are a rock upon which to build. They are often aloof, shrewd, practical, responsible and persevering. They are capable of great endurance; a whatever it takes, for as long as it takes persistence. Reliable in any profession they undertake, but lacking in originality, they usually excel in following up on what someone else has started. Stained glass depicting Capricorn. Lausanne Cathedral, France, mid-thirteenth century. Within prescribed areas, Capricorn is a resourceful, practical manager. These folks set high standards for themselves and others. They are self critical, and work well in a disciplined environment, demanding equal measure from their subordinates. A careful, ambitious planner, Capricorn moves forward with quiet, deliberate persistence. They can be frugal, possessing the ability to achieve results with minimum effort and expense. Highly organized, they excel in managing several projects simultaneously.

Capricorn will often vie for a position of authority. Once attaining control, they are demanding and exacting in leadership. Although firm, they are usually fair to people they deal with. They value tradition, the tried and true, more than innovation. "We always do it this way," was no doubt first said by a Capricorn. Their naturally pessimistic nature explains their wry sense of humor, which some think is no humor at all. They can spread gloom and tension in a minute and are quite capable of depressing everyone else around them. Never really up, but often down, they need a positive environment to enliven their spirits. Capricorn goat symbol. Fifteenth century, French manuscript. Capricorns tend to be profound thinkers. To them life is a serious business, and the need to be in control of it is paramount.. They are seekers after knowledge and wisdom. Rational, logical and clearheaded, they have excellent concentration, and delight in all forms of debate.

In personal relationships they tend to be uncomfortable. Rather self-centered, they are wary and suspicious of others. They often have few close friends, but will maintain these bonds their entire life. They are loyal to intimates, but indifferent and sometimes callous to those outside their circle. Never impetuous, they consider business and personal relationships carefully before becoming involved. These are family people, and family usually comes first, except where business is their primary concern. Capricorn zodiac symbol, seventeenth century European manuscript. The occupations Capricornians usually choose are as; doctors, lawyers, accountants, and most any endeavor that deals with math or money. They excel as bureaucrats, especially where projects demanding long-term planning are concerned. Capricornians make excellent politicians due to their skill in debate, and good teachers or principals. They do best in an environment wherein they can exercise their desire for authority and organization.They are good with their hands, and may choose to be engineers, farmers or builders. The wit and flippancy so characteristic of some Capricornians allows them to consider entertainment as a career. Many are also strongly attracted to musical pursuits.
 
 

Mythic Origins —

The sign of Capricorn within the Astrological zodiac dates back at least some 4,000 years. It is known that the Sumerians placed a great emphasis upon this particular time of the period. During this earlier age, the winter solstice (now in Sagittarius) occurred within Capricorn. On this date, many cultures of the ancient world would perform elaborate rituals and carry out sacrifices.

Among societies of the Mediterranean region, animals were associated with the four seasons. To each of these creatures belonged either a solstice or equinox. It is generally recognized that these figures were the bull, lion, scorpion and a sea creature. This imagery corresponds clearly to the astrological signs of Taurus, Leo, Scorpio and Capricorn. In a symbolic ritual, kings of the period would combat and subdue these animals to represent dominion over the elements of the seasons.

The association of the goat with Capricorn clearly dates back to ancient Babylon, at least. The Greeks related the sign to the horned god Pan. The image of the hybrid goat-fish creature corresponds to the tale of Pan's encounter with the beast Typhon. Attempting to escape the dreaded monster, Pan turned his lower half into a fish, in order to swiftly swim away. However, here again, the association of Capricorn with water, also dates to earlier cultures. The Egyptians and Chinese recognized in this period the commencement of the much anticipated rainy season. Immediately following Capricorn are Aquarius, the water bearer, pouring moisture upon the earth, and Pisces, the fish, immersed in the unseen life giving forces of water.

There is also a Capricornian reference recognized in the Babylonian god Ea, who wore a cloak designed as a fish's skin, complete with head and tail. One of his many names was "Antelope of the Seas". A good description of a fish tailed goat? He is one of the world's great culture initiates, who rose from the oceans to teach wisdom to land-dwelling man.