Cancer the Crab is a water sign in the cardinal mode. Cancer governs the waters that nourish life and human existence, wells, springs, creeks, rivers, and tide-pools. Cancer is related with the growth and nourishment of life, and with family, tribal existence, and sustenance in general.
The cardinal mode refers to the initiating quality of this sign. It is like the water that bubbles forth in springs and into rivers, deeply sustained in the glaciers and water tables of Scorpio, to eventually flow into the great oceans of Pisces.
Cancer is a sensitive sign and Cancer natives can sometimes have a crab-like shell against the outside world as a protective measure, but once they invite others into their inner circle they are loyal and deeply caring. Cancer governs domicile and roots, so there is a very strong connection with Cancers and their family, either by blood or chosen family.
The Sun is in the sign of Cancer starting June 20th at the Summer solstice- the longest day and shortest night of the year. The planet Jupiter is exalted in this sign. Jupiter is called the “bringer of light” and the energy of Jupiter expresses in a heightened and special way in the sign of Cancer because it is during the time of the year with the most light.
Cancer is ruled by the Moon and is very connected to the cyclical nature of the tides and the ebb and flow of the water in the body. Cancer natives can be sensitive to moon cycles, both emotionally and physically, with times of expansive full-moon energy and times of ebbing repose.
Cancer and Leo are ruled by the Moon and the Sun respectively, the luminaries of the sky, which govern the lightest and hottest times of the year in the northern hemisphere.