Mercury (astrology)

From ArticleWorld

The planetary ruler of Gemini and Virgo, Mercury is an important planet to be placed in a natal chart. It is named after the Roman Messenger God. It governs the mind and hence symbolizes intellect, communication, commerce and transportation. It is the insignia of wise counsel and a divine messenger. The element water reigns over Mercury in Chinese astrology.

Mercury is a planet with rapid movement and stands for perception, ideas and decision making ability. It is usually noted as the ruling planet for writers, orators, consultants and even swindlers. Its position also influences a person’s manual deftness. Its bad position may result in a dumb person or one of feeble mind and frail body.

‘God of the crossroads’ is another name given to Mercury. It governs transportation and movement both physical and mental. Mercury in retrograde results in stagnation, delayed buses, traffic snarls, computer breakdowns etc. During this period, any important decisions taken may tend to misfire.

Co-ordination is also characterized by Mercury. The thought process and new ideas need to be synchronized. Equally important is the understanding of sensory signals.

Mercury is an opportunistic planet, hence if it is in a favorable position, a person will have success in his career, decisions taken will bear fruit and life will move at a rapid but enjoyable pace.

The negative characteristics attributed to Mercury are that a person may be nervous, overly curious, anxious and unemotional.

According to Greek mythology, Mercury was a prankster and a con artist. Nevertheless, all Gods had nothing but immense fondness for him, as he was innocently playful and very helpful.