Essential dignity

Essential dignity, in the context of an astrological horoscope or natal chart, refers to the relative “strength” or “weakness” of a planet based on its zodiac sign and specific degree.

This is, of course, dependent on other factors unique to the individual, but the Sun and Leo represent the self, vitality, showmanship, loyalty and respect.

Aquarius and its planetary ruler, Saturn, both represent necessary tasks, group success, detailed facts, and potentially difficult (but often needed) scenarios.

However, not every planet in a horoscope will have an elevated or debilitated status; some planetary placements are purely “neutral”, so the perceived effects will be less noticeable or intense.

These themes are contrary to the motivated, spirited, and determined energies of Mars as a planet, and of Capricorn as a sign.

(Lilly said that the only function face rulers served was to keep a planet from being entirely peregrine—that is, without any essential dignity whatever—which was considered a malefic condition.)

Many modern astrologers take little heed of essential dignities, with the exception of sign rulerships (see article on ruling planets.)

A growth oriented approach to astrology replaced determinism to represent any planetary placement as equal in potential of positive or negative expression.

In astrology, the bounds or terms are a subdivision of the zodiac into five unequal regions that are assigned to each of the five traditional planets.

While the logic behind the creation of the bounds and interpretations of the earliest horoscopes they are featured on are unknown,[4] they are now an important element of traditional astrology, being used as a form of essential dignity and being implemented in different concepts and techniques such as reception, primary directions, and length of life techniques.

Interpreting the bounds are made on a chart-by-chart basis and are contingent on many factors such as the sign and house it occupies, sect, aspects, etc.