Mercury
Symbolism:
The word 'Virgo' means virgin in Latin. In Babylonian astrology, the sign was called 'the Furrow', a narrow trench made by a plow for planting seeds, associated with the goddess Shala - the goddess of grain and compassion. In Greek mythology the constellation was associated with various myths including the goddess of the harvest, Demeter and the goddess of innocence and purity, Astraea. It is likely the original word was not used in reference to sexual innocence but rather to give the symbol of a maiden who was not married, and whole on her own. The word stems from the word 'virga' which means "strip of wood".
In today's symbology, Virgo is symbolized by the image of a virgin, a woman who is seeking to find her own wholeness by connecting to the natural purity of her spirit. The word 'virgin', particularly when used in reference to nature, describes spaces which are not yet disturbed or changed by human activity. In such a way, this symbolizes the Virgo desire to experience the intuitive intelligence of nature. Additionally, the sign's association with grain symbolizes the desire to garner individual preferences (by separating the wheat from the chaff) and use them to perfect and refine one's creation.
Glyph The glyph for Virgo is somewhat mysterious. It is unknown why the "M" was chosen but this character did not exist until the Greek and Roman cultures. It is often thought that the inwardly drawn "tail" represents Virgo's restraint.
Planetary Ruler The planetary ruler of Virgo is generally unknown and most mysterious. Some astrologers conjecture the small asteroid Chiron, which represents the 'wounded healer' could be the ruler. To a secondary degree, Virgo is considered to be the 'feminine face' of Mercury associated with the analytical aspect of the mind.
Quality + Element The energy of Virgo is additionally described by its quality + element: Mutable (adapting, versatile, dynamic) Earth. This represents earth in a state in which it is already established and alive, but changing and morphing. An elemental symbol is the forest, intricate and private and slowly growing and re-arranging.
Energy out of alignment:
One is overburdened by work, or the striving to perfect rather than accepting the perfection of the present / One is lost in the details in their endeavors / Self-imposed standards inhibit ease and flow
One is restrained in their expression, rather than allowing their spontaneity / Organization stifles creativity / Meek rather than self-affirming
Energy in alignment:
A grounded, confident, down to earth style / Feeling the purity of spirit / Utilizing the refinement of understanding
Seeking to feel everything in its right place / Seeking to know the perfection of natural self / Seeking to be in connection with nature
Enjoying the detail in a tapestry of beautiful intricacy in one's perception / Expression without a need to prove anything to anyone / Chiseling one's creative work and passion with care and dedication
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