© 2000 Curtis Manwaring
Leo - Jul 23 - Aug 22: the lion. Keyword: "I Will". After one comes to understand their place in the world, it comes time to test ones sense of security and identity. Under Cancer the native draws in all sorts of information about ones self and sense of belonging. The natural counterpoint to this is an outward expression of ones self and an affirmation of self awareness and self consciousness. This takes many forms, through performance, creativity, playing, sports and contests all designed to prove ones worthiness and develop self esteem. This is the modern psychological view of this sign. Valens describes this sign thus:
"Those so born are notable, good, unchangeable, just, hating work, insubordinate, despising flattery, beneficent, puffed up with intentions. If the ruler should happen to be upon a pivot point or should happen to be with benefics, they will become bright, esteemed, tyrannical, kingly." [8]
There is alot of similarity in meanings here between the ancient texts and modern psychological definitions of this place. Both place a heavy emphasis on pride, strength, megalomania, greatness, etc... While modern astrologers say that this sign has to do with children (possibly relationships with children), the ancients said that this place was barren. When the lot of children falls here or if Leo should fall in the 5th, it was indicative of having few or no children. This may be because currently the 5th house and Leo tend to be viewed similarly. However, there may be no comparison. Even so, children are far more at ease with expressing themselves than adults, so there does seem to be similarity.
More information on each of the planets in Leo:
Sun
Moon
Mercury
Venus
Mars
Jupiter
Saturn
Uranus
Neptune
Pluto
Notes:
8. Vettius Valens, The Anthology, Book 1, pg 12. Translated by Robert Schmidt.
