An article I wrote about Chiron and added some edits in 2010.
It is still in dispute as to whether Chiron is an asteroid or planet. Since its discovery in 1977 much speculation has continued regarding its astrological significance and scientific categorisation. Whilst we are still on fairly new territory, 25 years later astrologers are now beginning to agree on the characteristics associated with this maverick.
Many of the references to Chiron being labelled the ‘Wounded Healer’ link to the mythology. Whilst they tie up most aptly to my own definitions, I don’t personally, subscribe to ancient wisdom since my own use of astrology is as a psychological, life enhancement tool. However to refer briefly to the mythology, Chiron was a Greek God who became severely wounded. This, along with immortally, caused him grave suffering. Despite his great distress he channelled his great empathy and experiences into healing and caring for others.
Moving back to the 21st century many astrologers have begun to believe Chiron may rule Virgo, shifting Mercury to the position of ‘co-ruler’. I am one of those who subscribes to this belief, let me tell you why.
Firstly the Virgo psychology is known to be organised, detail oriented and very concerned with health and cleanliness – to sum up a few key attributes. Virgos are also often criticised for being critical but in my own experience I would regard Virgo energy as mostly self-critical. It is if this desire for perfection within the self is not met & the personal imperfections, that are common to all humans, become unacceptable that the Virgo will begin to turn that criticism outwards.
Virgos are highly capable and extremely reliable individuals, however this striving for superhuman perfection seems to leave many with insecurities and feelings of insufficiency. Their self-esteem is directly related to proficiency and order, the Virgo also desires hygiene as a precursor to well being. Health is also extremely important to them and they are very aware (to coin a couple of clichés) that we ‘are what we eat’ and that a ‘healthy body equals a healthy mind’. Most Virgos are also extremely willing and able to help others, some of the best nurses and carers around are Virgos expressing a very healthy sense of duty and diligence.
Already there is an apparent relationship between the symbolic deep wounding suffered by Chiron and the psychological wounding of the Virgo seeking perfection. We can also see how this sensitivity can manifest as a desire to help and protect others. Many links can be found between Virgo and Chiron far too many, in my opinion, to be coincidence.
How are we likely to experience Chiron by transit?
When experiencing a difficult transit to our Natal Chiron position; much depends on the planet aspecting it and also how Chiron falls natally, regards both house & aspects. However, to summarise, Chiron emotions usually relate to a feeling of deep emptiness – what I refer to as ‘the Void’. This ‘Void’ seems to be felt most in the Solar Plexus (charka/energy centre located directly below the centre of the rib cage). Memories of our earliest feelings of inadequacies, failure and lack of acceptance from others are likely to surface. We may also feel that we wish to be alone and that circumstances or people are in some way victimising us. These emotions are very personal, so we may feel we are alone in having experienced them. Of course, this is untrue it is simply that such depth is less easy to discuss and so is frequently internalised.
Unlike other outer planets Chiron transits do not have to be heeded and it is not unusual for any adverse emotions to be ignored and buried deep down in our psyches. This is by no means healthy for the individual but the hectic lifestyles and degrees of stress being experienced by more and more people often take precedence over emotional cleansing.
Many people when undergoing holistic healing will suddenly find themselves in the throes of intense, emotional release – Chiron rules experiences such as these. Chiron is also linked with eating disorders, and corresponds to the Bach Flower Remedy: crab apple and in Tarot: The Heirophant.
So how do we integrate this information into our natal charts in order to better interpret the energy of Chiron?
It is still in dispute as to whether Chiron is an asteroid or planet. Since its discovery in 1977 much speculation has continued regarding its astrological significance and scientific categorisation. Whilst we are still on fairly new territory, 25 years later astrologers are now beginning to agree on the characteristics associated with this maverick.
Many of the references to Chiron being labelled the ‘Wounded Healer’ link to the mythology. Whilst they tie up most aptly to my own definitions, I don’t personally, subscribe to ancient wisdom since my own use of astrology is as a psychological, life enhancement tool. However to refer briefly to the mythology, Chiron was a Greek God who became severely wounded. This, along with immortally, caused him grave suffering. Despite his great distress he channelled his great empathy and experiences into healing and caring for others.
Moving back to the 21st century many astrologers have begun to believe Chiron may rule Virgo, shifting Mercury to the position of ‘co-ruler’. I am one of those who subscribes to this belief, let me tell you why.
Firstly the Virgo psychology is known to be organised, detail oriented and very concerned with health and cleanliness – to sum up a few key attributes. Virgos are also often criticised for being critical but in my own experience I would regard Virgo energy as mostly self-critical. It is if this desire for perfection within the self is not met & the personal imperfections, that are common to all humans, become unacceptable that the Virgo will begin to turn that criticism outwards.
Virgos are highly capable and extremely reliable individuals, however this striving for superhuman perfection seems to leave many with insecurities and feelings of insufficiency. Their self-esteem is directly related to proficiency and order, the Virgo also desires hygiene as a precursor to well being. Health is also extremely important to them and they are very aware (to coin a couple of clichés) that we ‘are what we eat’ and that a ‘healthy body equals a healthy mind’. Most Virgos are also extremely willing and able to help others, some of the best nurses and carers around are Virgos expressing a very healthy sense of duty and diligence.
Already there is an apparent relationship between the symbolic deep wounding suffered by Chiron and the psychological wounding of the Virgo seeking perfection. We can also see how this sensitivity can manifest as a desire to help and protect others. Many links can be found between Virgo and Chiron far too many, in my opinion, to be coincidence.
How are we likely to experience Chiron by transit?
When experiencing a difficult transit to our Natal Chiron position; much depends on the planet aspecting it and also how Chiron falls natally, regards both house & aspects. However, to summarise, Chiron emotions usually relate to a feeling of deep emptiness – what I refer to as ‘the Void’. This ‘Void’ seems to be felt most in the Solar Plexus (charka/energy centre located directly below the centre of the rib cage). Memories of our earliest feelings of inadequacies, failure and lack of acceptance from others are likely to surface. We may also feel that we wish to be alone and that circumstances or people are in some way victimising us. These emotions are very personal, so we may feel we are alone in having experienced them. Of course, this is untrue it is simply that such depth is less easy to discuss and so is frequently internalised.
Unlike other outer planets Chiron transits do not have to be heeded and it is not unusual for any adverse emotions to be ignored and buried deep down in our psyches. This is by no means healthy for the individual but the hectic lifestyles and degrees of stress being experienced by more and more people often take precedence over emotional cleansing.
Many people when undergoing holistic healing will suddenly find themselves in the throes of intense, emotional release – Chiron rules experiences such as these. Chiron is also linked with eating disorders, and corresponds to the Bach Flower Remedy: crab apple and in Tarot: The Heirophant.
So how do we integrate this information into our natal charts in order to better interpret the energy of Chiron?
In order to examine the affinity in your own chart between Virgo and Chiron
first look to which Sign Chiron falls in:
first look to which Sign Chiron falls in:
Chiron through the signs:
Chiron in Aries individuals.......
1 Apr 1968 - 18
Oct 1968, 30 Jan 1969 - 28 May 1976, 13 Oct 1976 - 28 Mar 1977
…wish to experience immediate healing. When ill they feel trapped and ineffective and will take proactive steps to ensure good health, though they have a tendency to cut corners when it comes to taking preventative measures. Expression of healing will be direct, truthful and to the point. Their vulnerabilities will be related to self assertion & identity. They do not like to be ignored or forgotten, as it reminds them of their failure to be self confident. Once the fear of being overlooked is faced they will be able to pioneering in their endeavours to heal and support those around them.
…wish to experience immediate healing. When ill they feel trapped and ineffective and will take proactive steps to ensure good health, though they have a tendency to cut corners when it comes to taking preventative measures. Expression of healing will be direct, truthful and to the point. Their vulnerabilities will be related to self assertion & identity. They do not like to be ignored or forgotten, as it reminds them of their failure to be self confident. Once the fear of being overlooked is faced they will be able to pioneering in their endeavours to heal and support those around them.
Chiron in Taurus individuals.......
28 May 1976 - 13 Oct 1976, 28 May 1977 - 22 Jun 1983,
29 Nov 1983 - 11 Apr 1984
…will have a very down to earth attitude to their health. They won’t be quick to change their approaches but they will be quite consistent about any new attitudes they adopt. Expression of healing will be stable, supportive and tactile. They will feel vulnerable when faced with unexpected changes, unusual occurrences related to their physical body and when their need for physical contact has been neglected. They do not like to be confused or pushed into fast decision making and are likely to fear deadlines and pressure when given no chance for preparation. Their greatest asset is their reliability and unfailing patience both in love and when their help in needed by a worthy cause.
…will have a very down to earth attitude to their health. They won’t be quick to change their approaches but they will be quite consistent about any new attitudes they adopt. Expression of healing will be stable, supportive and tactile. They will feel vulnerable when faced with unexpected changes, unusual occurrences related to their physical body and when their need for physical contact has been neglected. They do not like to be confused or pushed into fast decision making and are likely to fear deadlines and pressure when given no chance for preparation. Their greatest asset is their reliability and unfailing patience both in love and when their help in needed by a worthy cause.
Chiron in Gemini individuals.......
22 Jun 1983 - 29 Nov 1983, 11 Apr 1984 - 21 Jun 1988
…although they may be flighty and unpredictable at times, there is much resilience with Chiron in Gemini natives. They will be adaptive in their approach to healing and are intuitively aware that the power of thought is intrinsically linked to both healing and maintenance of a healthy body. Quick to learn new ideas, they make ideal consultants, as they are likely to have tried many approaches. I believe Chiron is exalted in this sign, as by sharing and communicating weaknesses, people feel closer and hence; less vulnerable, alone and ‘wounded’. Their most significant downfall can be a lack of patience for others who are more negative and set in their ways.
…although they may be flighty and unpredictable at times, there is much resilience with Chiron in Gemini natives. They will be adaptive in their approach to healing and are intuitively aware that the power of thought is intrinsically linked to both healing and maintenance of a healthy body. Quick to learn new ideas, they make ideal consultants, as they are likely to have tried many approaches. I believe Chiron is exalted in this sign, as by sharing and communicating weaknesses, people feel closer and hence; less vulnerable, alone and ‘wounded’. Their most significant downfall can be a lack of patience for others who are more negative and set in their ways.
Chiron in Cancer individuals.......
29 May 1938 - 1 Oct 1940, 27 Dec 1940 - 16 Jun 1941,
21 Jun 1988 - 21 Jul 1991
…have a natural empathy for others. They are caring, sensitive and seem to have an in-built ability to read signs of distress and unhappiness in others. Expressions of healing may be diverse and they love to retrieve old memories and emotional experiences, though can find it difficult to let go of the past at times. Vulnerabilities often lie in the welfare of others close to them, especially members of the family. They hate to see somebody they care about in distress and will feel most upset at any time they cannot assist. Their weakness is their inability to separate others’ feelings from their own at times.
…have a natural empathy for others. They are caring, sensitive and seem to have an in-built ability to read signs of distress and unhappiness in others. Expressions of healing may be diverse and they love to retrieve old memories and emotional experiences, though can find it difficult to let go of the past at times. Vulnerabilities often lie in the welfare of others close to them, especially members of the family. They hate to see somebody they care about in distress and will feel most upset at any time they cannot assist. Their weakness is their inability to separate others’ feelings from their own at times.
Chiron in Leo individuals.......
1 Oct 1940 - 27 Dec 1940, 16 Jun 1941 - 26 Jul 1943,
21 Jul 1991 - 3 Sept 1993
…want to be seen as adept and able and will often be proud if they have strong bodies and healthy youthful looks. Whilst quite self focussed, they are also extremely loyal and generous and will endeavour to be at the beck and call of their loves ones. With a flair for colour healing and natural charisma their indefatigable positivity can be very helpful and uplifting to those needing a boost to their spirits. Their vulnerabilities lie in being overlooked or unappreciated and if they are not tangibly thanked for their loyalty they may retreat.
…want to be seen as adept and able and will often be proud if they have strong bodies and healthy youthful looks. Whilst quite self focussed, they are also extremely loyal and generous and will endeavour to be at the beck and call of their loves ones. With a flair for colour healing and natural charisma their indefatigable positivity can be very helpful and uplifting to those needing a boost to their spirits. Their vulnerabilities lie in being overlooked or unappreciated and if they are not tangibly thanked for their loyalty they may retreat.
Chiron in Virgo individuals.......
26 Jul - 1943 - 18 Nov 1944, 24 Mar 1945 - 22 Jul
1945, 3 Sept 1993 - 9 Sept 1995
…can be identified by their systematic and orderly approach. They are calm and able in a crisis and can easily perform as well under pressure as at any other time. When Chiron falls in Virgo, the energy is likely to be acknowledged, expressed and subsequently used in a positive manner. As Virgos already have natural tendencies to be purgative and wish to be clean throughout the mind, body & soul it seems Chiron has always been their natural ruler. Vulnerabilities for Chiron in Virgo involve being ineffective in their service to humankind. Their wish is to be there for others and if they are in some way unable to be so, disappointment will be deep. They also fear any form of uncleanliness or disorder, they are effective in many areas of healthcare and usually have great retentive knowledge and a calm demeanour.
…can be identified by their systematic and orderly approach. They are calm and able in a crisis and can easily perform as well under pressure as at any other time. When Chiron falls in Virgo, the energy is likely to be acknowledged, expressed and subsequently used in a positive manner. As Virgos already have natural tendencies to be purgative and wish to be clean throughout the mind, body & soul it seems Chiron has always been their natural ruler. Vulnerabilities for Chiron in Virgo involve being ineffective in their service to humankind. Their wish is to be there for others and if they are in some way unable to be so, disappointment will be deep. They also fear any form of uncleanliness or disorder, they are effective in many areas of healthcare and usually have great retentive knowledge and a calm demeanour.
Chiron in Libra individuals.......
22 Jul 1945 - 10 Nov 1946, 9 Sept 1995 - 29 Dec 1996,
4 Apr 1997 - 3 Sept 1997
care deeply for others, they want their health to be balanced and to have a glowing complexion. They tend to be very congenial and sympathetic to those in need and are happy to go out of their way for another, though they don’t have an instinct as to how would be the best form of assistance. Expressions of healing will be loving and warm, though they may be a little over sensitive and self preservative in a crisis. Their Vulnerabilities are mostly aesthetic, they want to be beautiful and anything that interferes negatively with their appearance or affectionate congeniality will upset their balance.
care deeply for others, they want their health to be balanced and to have a glowing complexion. They tend to be very congenial and sympathetic to those in need and are happy to go out of their way for another, though they don’t have an instinct as to how would be the best form of assistance. Expressions of healing will be loving and warm, though they may be a little over sensitive and self preservative in a crisis. Their Vulnerabilities are mostly aesthetic, they want to be beautiful and anything that interferes negatively with their appearance or affectionate congeniality will upset their balance.
Chiron in Scorpio individuals.......
10 Nov 1946 - 28 Nov 1948, 29 Dec 1996 - 4 Apr 1997, 3
Sept 1997 - 7 Jan 1999,
1 Jun 1999 - 22 Sept 1999
…are intuitive and secretive about their fears. In regards their health they tend to suffer from suppressing their emotions the most and while they can become great spiritual healers, they need to first work on the inner self. Expression of healing with be via mediumship, intuition or through some form of deep meditation. They need depth and feelings to be able to perform well and so are good at assisting with emotional distress and grief. Vulnerabilities relate to a fear of death and destruction by unseen forces. Since they have such a connection with the spirit world, they are very aware of the troubles which can be encountered from that quarter.
…are intuitive and secretive about their fears. In regards their health they tend to suffer from suppressing their emotions the most and while they can become great spiritual healers, they need to first work on the inner self. Expression of healing with be via mediumship, intuition or through some form of deep meditation. They need depth and feelings to be able to perform well and so are good at assisting with emotional distress and grief. Vulnerabilities relate to a fear of death and destruction by unseen forces. Since they have such a connection with the spirit world, they are very aware of the troubles which can be encountered from that quarter.
Chiron in Sagittarius individuals.......
28 Nov 1948 - 9 Feb 1951, 18 Jun 1951 - 8 Nov 1951, 7
Jan 1999 - 1 Jun 1999,
22 Sept 1999 -
11 Dec 2001
…are warm and outgoing. Whilst difficult to pin down, they are well able to lift the mood of those near them and tend to display a warm vivacity. Expression of healing with be through; warmth and humour. Although they have a tendency to become uncomfortable with serious illness, they are great emotional supporters due to their exuberant optimism. They dislike criticism, boredom and demands being placed upon them and will respond defensively in these sorts of situations. For them laughter is the best medicine and most will shy away from self-analysis and prefer nobody to know if they are suffering.
…are warm and outgoing. Whilst difficult to pin down, they are well able to lift the mood of those near them and tend to display a warm vivacity. Expression of healing with be through; warmth and humour. Although they have a tendency to become uncomfortable with serious illness, they are great emotional supporters due to their exuberant optimism. They dislike criticism, boredom and demands being placed upon them and will respond defensively in these sorts of situations. For them laughter is the best medicine and most will shy away from self-analysis and prefer nobody to know if they are suffering.
Chiron in Capricorn individuals.......
9 Feb 1951 - 18 Jun 1951, 8 Nov 1951 - 27 Jan 1955, 11
Dec 2001 - 21 Feb 2005
...are very serious about health matters. They tend to be quite focussed and conscientious in their attitude to healthcare. The downside is this is they may be prone to worrying, which can cause bodily stress. Expression of healing will be traditional and they prefer to follow protocol and statistically proven methods. Vulnerabilities lies in the unknown and whatever is beyond their control, excessive emotional outbursts will also make them uncomfortable. Around sickness they can be remarkably calm and provide stability; however they their own illnesses may be regarded almost as failure.
...are very serious about health matters. They tend to be quite focussed and conscientious in their attitude to healthcare. The downside is this is they may be prone to worrying, which can cause bodily stress. Expression of healing will be traditional and they prefer to follow protocol and statistically proven methods. Vulnerabilities lies in the unknown and whatever is beyond their control, excessive emotional outbursts will also make them uncomfortable. Around sickness they can be remarkably calm and provide stability; however they their own illnesses may be regarded almost as failure.
Chiron in Aquarius individuals.......
27 Jan 1955 - 26 Mar 1960, 19 Aug 1960 - 21 Jan 1961,
21 Feb 2005 - 1 Aug 2005
…don’t tend to be preoccupied with thoughts of healing and illness. They are more concerned with any lack of self-expression and individuality. Expression of healing is intellectual and they are open to new ideas and have an affinity towards holistic methods. They fear limitation, inhibitions and for choices to be taken away from them, so will endeavour to maintain good health and believe in prevention not cure. They don’t rely on others and neither do they expect others to rely on them. They are however, altruistic and insightful so at times their intuition and ability to see the bigger picture can be most useful.
…don’t tend to be preoccupied with thoughts of healing and illness. They are more concerned with any lack of self-expression and individuality. Expression of healing is intellectual and they are open to new ideas and have an affinity towards holistic methods. They fear limitation, inhibitions and for choices to be taken away from them, so will endeavour to maintain good health and believe in prevention not cure. They don’t rely on others and neither do they expect others to rely on them. They are however, altruistic and insightful so at times their intuition and ability to see the bigger picture can be most useful.
Chiron in Pisces individuals.......
26 Mar 1960 - 19 Aug 1960, 21 Jan 1961 - 1 Apr 1968
… have an otherworldly outlook on all things related to health, they also see that anything is possible and so gravitate towards alternative therapies, spiritual healing and meditation. Expression of healing is very giving, caring and concerned. However, due to their deep sensitive caring nature they will feel the pain of others at times, sometimes even unconsciously. Vulnerabilities lie in their inability to relate to the physical world. They fear real life issues at times and although they are in touch with their emotions, escapist tendencies often surface. To avoid the depths of despair they feel when troubled and may be a little too willing to try new ventures/remedies.
… have an otherworldly outlook on all things related to health, they also see that anything is possible and so gravitate towards alternative therapies, spiritual healing and meditation. Expression of healing is very giving, caring and concerned. However, due to their deep sensitive caring nature they will feel the pain of others at times, sometimes even unconsciously. Vulnerabilities lie in their inability to relate to the physical world. They fear real life issues at times and although they are in touch with their emotions, escapist tendencies often surface. To avoid the depths of despair they feel when troubled and may be a little too willing to try new ventures/remedies.
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