Succedent Houses, and these are midway between the Angles

Definition

Succedent houses are the second, fifth, eighth, and eleventh houses of an astrological chart. Each follows an angular house: the second follows the first, the fifth follows the fourth, the eighth follows the seventh, and the eleventh follows the tenth. They are traditionally described as supporting or succeeding the angles. Although sometimes called midway between the angles, their exact size and position depend on the house system used.

Astrological Meaning

In traditional astrology, succedent houses are associated with continuity, stabilization, and the development of matters initiated in angular houses. The second concerns personal resources and livelihood; the fifth, children, pleasure, and creative expression; the eighth, shared assets, obligations, and inheritance; and the eleventh, friends, alliances, hopes, and support. Succedent houses are generally considered less immediately forceful than angular houses but more established or effective than cadent houses. Interpretation also depends on the house ruler, resident planets, aspects, sect, and planetary condition.

Why It Matters

Recognizing the succedent houses helps astrologers assess how chart topics are sustained, accumulated, or carried forward. A strongly emphasized succedent house may draw attention to maintaining resources, commitments, relationships, or long-term aims rather than initiating action. The classification also provides context for traditional ideas of house strength, but it should not replace a complete reading of the planets and chart.

Related Encyclopedia Entries

• Traditional Astrology
• Astrological Terminology
• Natal Chart
• Angular Houses
• Cadent Houses
• House Systems