The positive polarity of Sagittarius gives it an outwardly directed enthusiasm for exploring the world and acquiring new experiences. Goal directed and far seeing, Sagittarius is the archer, setting his aim for the stars. An idealistic philosopher, Sagittarius searches far and wide for knowledge, wisdom and a higher perspective in life.
The key phrase for Sagittarius is “I Understand.” Through Sagittarius the intellect is illuminated by the light of spirit. Sagittarius asks us to expand our view, seek higher learning, and find a broader perspective. Sagittarius knows a problem cannot be solved on the level it was created. It needs to be approached from a higher level, where we have a larger and more complete point of view. When we see the bigger picture we can find answers and possible solutions.
A seeker of truth in pursuit of knowledge, Sagittarius rules religions, philosophy, and institutions of higher learning. It rules foreign countries and languages, and traveling long distances to explore other cultures. Through these avenues Sagittarius expands its understanding of the world and uplifts its personal beliefs and philosophy of life. In its search for truth, Sagittarius covers a lot of ground!
Sagittarius loves adventure, physicality, freedom, wide open spaces, and the outdoors. The natural world and animals, especially horses and deer, are symbols of Sagittarius. It rules outdoor pursuits such as hunting, natural history and the science of ecology. Sagittarius enjoy participating in sports for the physical experience and knowledge gained.
Sagittarius’ love of wide open spaces can cause it to become claustrophobic and commitment phobic if it senses it is losing the mental, emotional and physical freedom it craves. Always on the move looking for the next new adventure beyond the horizon, Sagittarius easily becomes bored and restless. Lacking patience and focus, it misses details and lacks the staying power to see a project through to completion. It prefers to see the forest, and not the trees.
Sagittarius is friendly, direct, and values honesty. It is generous and willing to share. Fun-loving Sagittarius has a sense of humor. It inspires others to lighten up and be optimistic, and to have faith and trust in the future.
The Sagittarius love of expounding on its philosophy can lead to preaching, close-mindedness and fundamentalism if unchecked. Problematic Sagittarius can become attached to being “right”, to being an expert, or a wise person or authority. In this way Sagittarius can cut itself off from exploring other points of view, beliefs or philosophies that might expand its own world view and spiritual vision of life.
Areas of life ruled by Sagittarius include our personal beliefs and philosophy, our vision of life. Religious institutions, practices, rites and ceremonies are Sagittarian. Moral and ethical standards, the law, legal affairs, and publishing are all ruled by Sagittarius. The higher mind and the ways we acquire wisdom, such as through formal education in a college or university, are Sagittarian. Venturing beyond our home to gain new experiences and long distance travel are in the domain of Sagittarius.
Archetypes for Sagittarius include philosophers, college professors and teachers, clergy, spiritual leaders, visionaries and shamans. Travelers, gypsies and wanderers, such as the cowboy riding off into the sunset are also Sagittarius archetypes. Parts of the body ruled by Sagittarius include the hips, upper legs and thighs, the pancreas and fatty tissues. The gem for Sagittarius is turquoise. Its metal is tin. Sagittarius plants are birch trees and dandelion flowers. Its animals include deer and horses. The color for Sagittarius is royal purple.
“Truth resides in every human heart, and one has to search for it there, and to be guided by truth as one sees it. But no one has a right to coerce others to act according to his own view of truth.”
– Edmund Burke