what does “rising sign” or “ascendant” mean?
Your “Rising sign” - or Ascendant - is the sign on the ecliptic on your eastern horizon when you took your first breath. Since, everyday, the Sun appears on the Eastern horizon, this sign represents any symbolic beginning, including your birth, your approach to life and how you start anything new. It is always linked to your 1st House, which is all about your individual Self including your physical appearance and your essential energy.
Earth's 24-hour rotation is responsible for the rapid ascent of the zodiac signs above a specific point, with each sign rising every two hours approximately. This very rapid movement is a crucial factor in the uniqueness of your ascendant, as it signifies the exact portion of the sky that was ascending at the precise moment and location of your birth. This specificity is why your ascendant is considered as important as your Sun and Moon, if not even more important. In ancient Greek astrology, this sign was referred to as Horoskopos,
Your Rising sign is also you persona. It shows how you advertise yourself to the world; it influences your style and how you come across to others. It can show whether you're the kind of person who confidently takes center stage in a room - if it’s in Leo for example - or if you tend to be more reserved and stay on the sidelines - as a Cancer rising would.
Every journey starts with a spark of inspiration. Your Ascendant shows us what initiated your life's journey and what continues to ignite your passion and what meaning you give to things in your daily life.
The Rising Sign is different than the Sun Sign in that the Sun is our connection to Spirit, or that which sets our soul on fire and provides us with a purpose we strive to reach throughout our life.
your chart ruler
Each zodiac sign has a planet associated with it, and your rising sign has one too. This planet, known as your chart ruler, acts like a guide for your life, showing you where you can reach your full potential. The position of your chart ruler planet provides insights into the path you should follow. For instance, if you're a Aries rising, your chart ruler is Mars, which means that focusing on things like taking risks, action, dynamism, and pioneering initiative will help you fulfill your life's purpose.
