category: Astrology Encyclopedia

Increasing in Motion

July 17, 2026Astrology Encyclopediaadmin

Definition

Increasing in Motion is a traditional astrological term describing a planet whose apparent geocentric speed is becoming faster from one observation to the next. It concerns a change in speed rather than simply whether the planet is fast or slow. It is also distinct from direct motion: a planet may be direct while accelerating or slowing, and comparable speed changes can occur during parts of a retrograde cycle.

Astrological Meaning

Traditional astrologers often associate increasing motion with developing momentum, responsiveness, and a growing capacity to act. In a natal chart, it may subtly strengthen the planet’s ability to express its significations, depending on sign, house, aspects, sect, and other conditions. In horary or electional work, it can suggest that a matter is gathering pace. This indication remains secondary to stronger testimonies such as planetary dignity, angularity, reception, and applying aspects.

Why It Matters

Tracking whether a planet is increasing or decreasing in speed adds nuance to chart interpretation. Two planets with similar placements may operate differently if one is gaining momentum while the other is losing it. The condition can help an astrologer assess the tempo and development of a planetary theme without treating speed as a guaranteed outcome. Accurate use generally requires an ephemeris or software that reports daily motion.

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Increasing in Light

July 17, 2026Astrology Encyclopediaadmin

Definition

Increasing in Light is a traditional astrological condition describing a planet or luminary whose visible illumination is growing. The clearest example is the waxing Moon, which increases in light from the New Moon toward the Full Moon. Classical astrologers may also assess a planet’s brightness according to its phase and changing relationship with the Sun, although the exact rules vary by planet and tradition.

Astrological Meaning

In traditional interpretation, increasing light generally suggests development, emergence, strengthening, or movement toward greater visibility. A waxing Moon may support matters that are gathering momentum, while a planet becoming more visibly established can symbolize qualities that are easier to express or recognize. This condition is usually treated as a form of accidental strength rather than an independent promise of success. Its effect must be judged alongside sign dignity, house placement, aspects, speed, sect, and proximity to the Sun.

Why It Matters

The concept adds nuance to natal, horary, and electional chart interpretation by showing whether a planetary influence is symbolically growing or declining. It can help distinguish two otherwise similar placements and clarify timing or developmental emphasis. Increasing light is best read as one supporting testimony within the whole chart, not as a guaranteed prediction or a substitute for broader planetary analysis.

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Inconjunct

July 17, 2026Astrology Encyclopediaadmin

Definition

An inconjunct is an angular relationship between planets or chart points that cannot be divided evenly into the zodiac’s major aspect patterns. In modern astrology, the term usually refers to the quincunx, an angle of approximately 150 degrees. In traditional terminology, signs separated by 30 or 150 degrees were considered averse because they did not form a recognized Ptolemaic aspect.

Astrological Meaning

The inconjunct is commonly associated with adjustment, mismatch, and circumstances requiring ongoing coordination. The planets involved may express needs that do not naturally recognize or support one another, often because their signs differ by element, modality, or both. In a natal chart, this can suggest an area where competing habits or priorities benefit from conscious adaptation. In transits, an inconjunct may coincide with periods of recalibration rather than a single decisive event. Interpretation should consider the planets, signs, houses, exact orb, and the wider chart.

Why It Matters

Recognizing an inconjunct can explain why two chart factors feel connected yet resist straightforward integration. Unlike an opposition, it does not necessarily create an obvious polarity; unlike a trine, it rarely indicates effortless cooperation. Its value lies in identifying subtle friction and the practical changes that may help different parts of life function together more effectively.

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Inclination

July 17, 2026Astrology Encyclopediaadmin

Definition

Inclination is a tendency, preference, or disposition suggested by one or more features of an astrological chart. The term describes a direction in which a person may be drawn rather than a fixed outcome. In traditional astrological writing, it can refer to a native’s apparent leanings in temperament, conduct, interests, or response to circumstances.

Astrological Meaning

An astrologer identifies inclination by combining several forms of testimony rather than relying on a single placement. Planetary condition, house position, sign qualities, aspects, sect, and the rulers of relevant houses may all contribute. For example, repeated emphasis on Mercury and the third or ninth houses might suggest an inclination toward study, language, teaching, or exchange, but the exact expression depends on the whole natal chart. Conflicting factors can modify, redirect, or complicate the tendency.

Why It Matters

Inclination provides a useful middle ground between vague symbolism and deterministic prediction. It allows chart interpretation to describe recurring motivations or likely preferences while leaving room for choice, upbringing, culture, opportunity, and changing circumstances. The concept also encourages careful synthesis: a tendency becomes more noteworthy when several independent chart factors support it. Used responsibly, inclination helps explain what may feel natural or compelling without claiming that a person must behave in a particular way.

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Imum Coeli

July 17, 2026Astrology Encyclopediaadmin

Definition

The Imum Coeli, usually abbreviated IC, is one of the four principal angles of an astrological chart. Its Latin name means “bottom of the sky.” It lies opposite the Midheaven and marks the lower intersection of the local meridian with the ecliptic. In many house systems, it is also the cusp of the fourth house, although angles and house cusps are calculated differently in some systems.

Astrological Meaning

Astrologers associate the Imum Coeli with roots, home, family background, privacy, and the foundations of inner life. Its zodiac sign may describe qualities a person seeks in a secure personal environment, while planets closely conjunct the IC can emphasize particular experiences or needs within domestic and private life. The IC’s ruling planet, its condition, and aspects to the angle add further context. Interpretation should also distinguish the IC itself from the broader fourth house, since they are related but not always identical factors.

Why It Matters

The Imum Coeli helps balance the chart’s public and private dimensions. While the opposing Midheaven often concerns vocation, reputation, or visible direction, the IC points toward what supports a person away from public view. Examining this angle can clarify recurring themes involving belonging, ancestry, emotional grounding, and the meaning of home. Its symbolism is best understood alongside the entire natal chart rather than treated as a fixed account of family history or destiny.

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Imperfect Signs, Broken Signs

July 17, 2026Astrology Encyclopediaadmin

Definition

Imperfect signs and broken signs are historical astrological labels for zodiac signs whose traditional figures were viewed as incomplete, divided, injured, or otherwise lacking bodily wholeness. The terminology is not standardized: lists and definitions differ among authors, languages, and periods, and the category sometimes overlaps with maimed or mutilated signs.

Astrological Meaning

In traditional natal, horary, and medical astrology, these signs could be treated as descriptive testimony concerning weakness, damage, interruption, irregularity, or something unable to function in its expected form. Their relevance depended on the chart question and on supporting factors such as the Ascendant, its ruler, planetary condition, house placement, and aspects. A sign classification alone was not normally sufficient for judgment. Because older texts vary, an astrologer should use the specific definitions belonging to the method or author being studied rather than combining incompatible sign lists.

Why It Matters

Understanding this term helps readers interpret older astrological writings without taking their language too literally. In contemporary practice, it is best approached as a symbolic and historical classification, not as a diagnosis or a fixed statement about a person’s body, character, or future. Context and multiple chart factors remain essential.