Who keeps an arrow in his bow,
And if you prod him, lets it go?

A fervent friend, a subtle foe –
— Scorpio

Scorpio

October 24
Through
November 22



Ruling Planets

Mars & Pluto

Scorpio will rarely be found in the center of activity, but will always know just what is going on of concern to him. Their tenacity and willpower are enviable, their depth of character and passionate conviction admirable, but it is their deep sensitivity that makes them the best and most loyal friend. This same quality makes them the most treacherous of enemies.

Personification of the Moon (Luna), seen here
processing through the sign of Scorpio.
Italian manuscript, fifteenth century.

Their sensitivity, and pride allow them to be easily hurt, quick to feel insult or injury, even when none is intended, and easily roused to heights of anger. An angry Scorpio is a sight to see. Unlike Leo, who can have a temper tantrum and five minutes later be quite himself again, Scorpio seethes, and doesn't give it up.

When they harness their abundant energy constructively, their self-confidence tempered with shrewdness, and their ambition coupled with generosity toward others, they excel at whatever they undertake. Scorpios are demanding of others, but never ask someone to do what they would not do themselves. They can be fanatically focused and work till they drop, and ask the same of those around them. No middle ground for a Scorpio, all or nothing.

Scorpio imagination and intuition are excellent. They possess refined critical perception and strong analytical ability. In addition, they seem to demonstrate a natural healing power. These abundant gifts allow Scorpions to penetrate the most profound subjects. They are serious folk, but quite charming to people they like, and when social events call for it. Their tragic flaw is their immense pride. Once wronged, once Scorpio's pride has been diminished, the game of courtesy is over.

Flowers:
Geranium, Honeysuckle

Herbs:
Aloe, Witch Hazel

Countries:
Norway, Syria,
Algeria, Zambia

Cities:
New Orleans,
Washington DC,
Liverpool, Halifax

Body Area:
Regenerative Organs

Principle:
Regeneration

Keywords:
Intense, Passionate,
Jealous

Notable Scorpio

Vivian Leigh

Medieval Tarot images often correspond to the
symbolism of Astrology. Scorpio is depicted
here with the Empress of the major arcana.

Their inner intensity can result in the ice-cold restraint and detachment of the surgeon, the concentration of the research scientist and the heroism of the soldier. Any profession in which analysis, investigation, research or dealing with the solving of mysteries are present appeals to Scorpio. Police and detective work, espionage, the law, physics or psychology are attractive professions to the Scorpio. As writers and orators they excel. The Scorpio character is the one you see up on the podium delivering "fire and brimstone" speeches. They succeed because they communicate the power of their convictions.

Origins in Mythology

Within a mythological context there is much that can be understood about the Scorpio personality. Look towards the constellation Scorpius, and you shall see one of the greatest stars visible to the human eye. There, at the very heart of the great scorpion is brilliant Antares! This red giant, some four hundred times larger than our own sun, rivals even close Mars for the eye's attention. Such intense energy burning at the center of this distinct constellation corresponds well to the driving passions which rule over those born in this period.

The Eagle and the Scorpion

An important, though little known chapter in Scorpio lore is the placement of the Eagle in polarity to the Scorpion. Most Scorpios, if they dare be so revealing, would confess of an ongoing internal conflict between two distinct aspects of their nature. For individuals with a strong Scorpio influence, this may feel sometimes as a civil war of the self. This is not an abnormal psychological state. Here can be found the echoes of the earliest understandings of the Scorpio character.


The Scorpio constellation, depicted in
an eighteenth century wall mural.

Scorpions are creatures which crawl along the ground, seeking out the hidden spaces. They are a mystery to humanity, shrouded in fear and misunderstanding. Left to their own, they are comfortable in the low lying realms of the world. If provoked, however, they will strike with a deadly vengeance. The Eagle soars. On great wings this ruler of the wind rises above earthbound limitations. From this lofty perspective, the Eagle sees a world others may never dream. The bird of prey also strikes a swift and deadly blow. Yet, unlike the Scorpion, the Eagle has the ability to soar beyond. Within the spirit of every Scorpio resides this dual nature.