What Does Earth Represent in Astrology?

Co-authored by Haley Delgado and Sophia Bell

Last Updated: March 30, 2023 References

If you’re familiar with astrology, you’ve probably noticed that Earth isn’t included in the planets that rule the zodiac signs. So what does planet Earth represent in astrology? We’re here to explain how Earth factors into your sun sign, elemental sign, astrological houses, and natal (or birth) chart.

Section 1 of 6:

Why doesn’t Earth rule any of the zodiac signs?

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The zodiac signs are based on our view of the constellations from Earth. From our perspective on Earth, it looks like the sun passes in front of different constellations. This is actually an illusion due to the way the Earth orbits the sun.^{[1]
X
Research source} Your zodiac sign (also called a star or sun sign) is determined by which constellation the sun appears to be in at the time you were born.^{[2]
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- For instance, between May 13th and June 21st, the sun appears to be in the constellation of Taurus, so if your birthday falls in that date range, your zodiac sign is a Taurus.

Section 2 of 6:

Which signs are earth signs?

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Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn are earth signs. Each zodiac sign is associated with one of the four elements: fire, water, air, or earth. The earth signs—Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn—are often the most sensible, reliable, and grounded members of the zodiac. If you’re an earth sign, you likely appreciate routine and structure, persevere to meet your goals, and are a natural leader.^{[3]
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- Earth signs are also classified as feminine or passive (along with water signs, while fire and air signs are masculine or active).
- Business and finance are industries where Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn thrive.
- One thing to watch out for—earth signs can be materialistic.^{[4]
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Section 3 of 6:

What does the earth element represent?

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The skin, bones, and organs that make up your body are the physical representations of the earth.^{[5]
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Research source} The earth element is closely connected to the physical senses and is receptive, rather than aggressive, but that doesn't mean it's weak. The earth element is strong, enduring, and peaceful. ^{[6]
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Section 4 of 6:

Which houses does Earth rule?

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The Earth doesn’t rule any of the houses. The houses are based on Earth’s rotation around its own axis over a 24-hour period.^{[7]
X
Research source} All 12 houses are ruled by the 10 planets of the zodiac—well, 8 planets plus the sun and moon.^{[8]
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- Mars: 1st house (Aries)
- Venus: 2nd house (Taurus), 7th house (Libra)
- Mercury: 3rd house (Gemini), 6th house (Virgo)
- Moon: 4th house (Cancer)
- Sun: 5th house (Leo)
- Pluto: 8th house (Scorpio)
- Jupiter: 9th house (Sagittarius)
- Saturn: 10th house (Capricorn)
- Uranus: 11th house (Aquarius)
- Neptune: 12th house (Pisces)

Quiz

wikiHow Quiz: What Zodiac Sign Am I?

Have you ever looked up your sign, read the description, and thought: “What? That doesn’t sound like me at all…”? Sun signs, contrary to popular belief, don't tell your whole story. In reality, you have an entire birth chart filled with 12 signs that affect you in unique ways. And depending on the house they fall into, each sign might look different on different people, too. Tell us about yourself with this quiz, and we’ll tell you which zodiac sign really describes you.

1 of 15

If you could morph into an animal at any time, what would it be?

An orca. I'd love to swim in a pod and see the entire world!

A cat. I'd love to be independent and live my life on my terms.

An eagle. I want to soar through the skies where nobody can hold me back.

A koala. I'd love to chill out and enjoy life's simple pleasures.

Section 5 of 6:

What is Earth’s symbol?

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There are many interpretations of this symbol. Some say Earth’s symbol represents a globe divided into the 4 directions of a compass by meridian lines.^{[9]
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Research source} Others believe the circle represents the spirit while the cross represents the mind and body. Still others liken the Earth to the physical body, including your bones and teeth, while some people maintain that Earth represents life.

Section 6 of 6:

Where is Earth in a natal chart?

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Earth is always 180 degrees from the sun in your natal chart. The Earth represents your physical location and dharma, or sense of purpose. It’s the mirror image of the sun, in the same degree but the opposite sign.
- If your sun sign is in Aquarius, your Earth sign is in Leo, and vice versa.
- If your sun sign is in Pisces, your Earth sign is in Virgo, and vice versa.
- If your sun sign is in Aries, your Earth sign is in Libra, and vice versa.
- If your sun sign is in Taurus, your Earth sign is in Scorpio, and vice versa.
- If your sun sign is in Cancer, your Earth sign is in Capricorn, and vice versa.
- If your sun sign is in Gemini, your Earth sign is in Sagittarius, and vice versa.