Aquarius ~ The Water Bearer

Aquarius is the eleventh and penultimate sign of the Western Zodiac. Symbolised by the Water Bearer ~ a human figure pouring water from an urn ~ it’s glyph is a stylised representation of this watery outpouring.

Despite the fluid connotations, Aquarius is actually an air sign. In the past this constellation was prominent in the sky during the rainy seasons encountered by the ancient Babylonians and the annual flooding of the Nile in ancient Egypt. Nowadays the water is seen to represent the archetypal pouring forth of knowledge for the intellectual and spiritual nourishment of all humanity.

Aquarians then are humanitarian. They are concerned with the well-being of others on a global scale. They are egalitarian and try to ensure that everyone gets a fair deal. They are usually friendly and helpful, although when deep in thought their manner can be more brusque. They are progressive, sometimes radical and are often credited with being ahead of their time. They tend to be amongst the first to adopt new ideas ~ particularly in their youth. They are not great ones for convention and don’t mind if others consider them eccentric or different. Their thinking is largely rational and objective, although they should guard against being overly stubborn and dogmatic.

As the natural rulers of astrology’s Eleventh House and thus linked with friends and group associations, Aquarians usually have many friends ~ although few of these will know them really well. Personal space is vital to these people and those allowed full access will be few and far between. They do make excellent group members though, putting the needs of the whole before it’s constituents. They have a reputation for following causes ~ particularly those of a liberal or humane nature.

Ultimately Aquarians are idealists ~ with many modern and innovative ideas. Their main difficulties lie within the sphere of more intimate relationships. They are concerned with humanity at large, but are less comfortable at close range! They believe in frankness, sincerity and non-possessiveness. Close relationships inevitably stir up complex and convoluted emotions which Aquarians often find troublesome. Generally not materialistic, their most treasured belongings are their freedom and independence. Whilst most ultimately do form stable partnerships, it will always be important for both partners to maintain their own interests and concerns.

At other times Aquarians can become so focused on the outside world that the domestic environment may be seriously neglected. With so much of the world to save, partnerships can crumble from lack of attention! However, when they find their soul-mate they make generous, loyal and committed partners ~ willing to stick with their relationship through it’s inevitable ups and downs. Because of Aquarius’s association with friendship, a true friend will be best in the longer term.

Always unusual and often unpredictable, the downside of the Aquarian character mainly shows it’s dubious head when the above characteristics become over-blown. These are true rebels, but can easily become contrary, perverse and negative ~ simply doing the opposite for the sake of it. They may also at times get so wrapped up in their own thoughts that they fail to notice the cares and concerns of those around them. Independence, taken to extremes, can result in loneliness.

However, the modern world becomes increasingly Aquarian every day. Whilst there is some dispute as to when the Aquarian Age actually begins, it is certainly associated with ~ amongst other things ~ astrology, the whole ‘New Age’ phenomenon and with all new technology such as computers and the Internet. You can be sure that those born under the sign of the Water Bearer will be at the forefront of any new developments!

© Paul Wade 1999