Libra the Scales
Libra is an air sign in the cardinal mode. The sun enters the sign of Libra on September 22nd, the Autumn equinox in the northern hemisphere and the turning point of the seasons.
As this axis point of change, Libra is very attuned to finding balance between opposites.
The word zodiac has the same root as the word zoo, meaning animal, and all of the zodiacal signs except Libra are represented by animals or people. Libra is the only sign in the zodiac represented by a mechanical object- the scales, symbolizing how Libra can be exacting and objective in its search for balance.
Cardinal
The term cardinal means something that is fundamental, primary, pivotal. The cardinal signs of the zodiac occur at pivotal times of the year and these signs introduce their particular element to start something new.
The first cardinal sign Aries brings in the spring equinox, the beginning of the entire cycle of seasons. Cancer is at the summer solstice, the season of the longest days and most light. Libra is at the autumn equinox and Capricorn at the winter solstice.
Dividing the Zodiac
Libra is the dividing point between the first and last parts of the zodiac cycle. The first six zodiacal signs are oriented toward the development of self, and the last six signs toward the development of society. Libra is the turning point, the pause, the scales which determines what is needed to continue on in a balanced way.
Self and Others
In Libra there is the first impulse to learn about oneself through the mirror of cooperation and interaction. The primary orientation of Libra is toward the other, be it the other person in any kind of relationship, the other point of view, or the polemics of law and politics.
Libra, ruled by harmonizing Venus, is the masterful diplomat, the charming socialite, or the fair-minded mediator. Libra is also the lawyer who uses the ability to see and understand both sides of an argument or a problem to fight for just one side.
Libra Opposite Aries
Libra is opposed by Aries and this forms the fundamental polarity of the zodiac: self and others. Aries, ruled by Mars, is direct, decisive, self-oriented, and an active, fiery force. Aries can learn lessons of consideration of others and consequences for their actions from Libra.
Libra, ruled by Venus, is accommodating, often indecisive, cooperative, and a receptive, airy force. Libra can learn from Aries to choose a course of action even if it may be displeasing to other people.
Justice
In Libra, justice is blind, there are no favorites and the emotions are not brought into it, it’s just the facts and payment is due to right the wrong.
As an air sign Libra can have a certain intellectual detachment, and justice may be served under Libra at times with a mechanical coldness. At other times the harmonizing influence of Venus prevails bringing mercy and understanding.