What they are and how to use them.

Astrology, a fascinating system that seeks to interpret celestial patterns and their potential influence on human affairs, has intrigued countless individuals for centuries. Within this intricate framework, astrological degrees play a significant role in providing a more in-depth understanding of one’s birth chart. Today we will explore the importance of degrees in astrology, delving into Sabian Symbols, critical degrees, decans, and dwads. With recent updates, research, and theories, I aim to present an original, unique, and comprehensive perspective on this captivating topic.

Sabian Symbols: The Enigma of Astrological Degrees

The Sabian Symbols, a set of 360 images representing each degree of the zodiac, were first introduced by astrologer Marc Edmund Jones and clairvoyant Elsie Wheeler in 1925. These symbols are meant to provide a symbolic meaning for each degree, enhancing astrological interpretations. However, many astrologers, including myself, have found limited validity in their application. Instead, let’s focus on the critical degrees, decans, and dwads, which offer a more nuanced understanding of astrological degrees.

Having said that, I won’t deter you from investigating the sabian symbols for yourself, especially if esoteric studies is up your alley. I will reccommend you read the information direct from Dr. Marc Edmund Jones as there are still some astrological jewels to be discovered.

Critical Degrees: Young and Old Energy

Critical degrees, specifically the 0 and 29 degrees of a sign, hold particular importance in astrology. These degrees are said to represent “young” and “old” energy, respectively. A planet at 0 degrees embodies the raw, unrefined energy of a sign, akin to a curious infant discovering their surroundings. On the other hand, a planet at 29 degrees signifies maturity and experience, akin to a wise adult who has learned many lessons throughout their life. I have also found through experience that when progressed planets or transits reach a critical degree that the energy the sign place it occupies, appears to be more intensified. For example when The moon hits 0° or 29 ° of Aries that more news of domestic violence, house fires, and family arguments manifest. 

Decans: Threefold Division of Astrological Signs

Each astrological sign spans 30 degrees and can be further divided into three sections of 10 degrees each, called decans. Decans allow astrologers to explore how different planets manifest their energy within a specific sign, providing additional insights into an individual’s birth chart.

Using the example of Taurus, the first decan (0-10 degrees) represents Taurus energy, the second decan (10-20 degrees) embodies Virgo energy, and the third decan (20-29 degrees) reflects Capricorn energy. Therefore, if someone has their Sun at 15 degrees of Taurus, they would be considered an Taurus Sun/Virgo Decan. This person may be very particular about what makes them comfortable or they could be the type of individual who is very analytical about their personal finances. If the they had the Sun at 26 degrees then their sun would be in the Capricorn decan. This individual may not be as anlytical about their finances but instead very frugal when it comes to how they choose to spend money. They may also be hard-set about their morals and values and unwilling to budge on their identity. This distinction highlights how each decan brings a unique flavor to a person’s astrological profile.

Dwads: A Finer Breakdown of Astrological Degrees

While decans provide a valuable layer of insight, dwads offer an even more granular view. Dwads break down each sign into 12 sections, with each section spanning 2.5 degrees. This division aligns with the 12 signs of the zodiac, resulting in a more intricate understanding of a person’s birth chart.

Returning to our Taurus example, an individual with their Sun at 15 degrees would be an Taurus Sun/Virgo Decan/Libra Dwad. This combination of Taurus, Virgo, and Libra energies provides an even more detailed understanding of the person’s astrological makeup. For example, While you could say this Taurus Sun is a determined individual, this may be true during analytical pursuits (Virgo Decan), and only when in a partnership(Libra Dwad).

It is also important to note that the minutes and seconds of the degree is very important here. In this example when I say 15 degrees, I mean 15 degrees, 0 minutes 0 seconds. The moment the degree becomes 15 degrees,, 0 minutes, 1 second the dwad will change to a Scorpio dwad.

Degrees in Astrology: Measurement and Meaning

The primary function of degrees in astrology is to measure the celestial circle and the geometrical aspects within it. Certain degrees are considered special, indicating additional attributes or characteristics. (However, there is an ongoing debate among astrologers regarding the precise interpretation of these degrees.)

Critical degrees reveal the maturity ( or even the intensity) level of a planet’s energy, while decans and dwads provide additional layers of interpretation, allowing astrologers to create more accurate and personalized readings.

So the next time you delve into your birth chart or explore someone else’s, remember that there are true “levels to this” cosmic art. Take the time to investigate the critical degrees, decans, and dwads present in the chart, and you may be surprised by the additional insights and revelations that emerge.