The creative expression of Aries has been portrayed as the pioneer, the goal setter, the martial type human being. The go-getters in our culture are encouraged to push their way to success to the exclusion of any feminine expression of the first sign. The single-minded, incisive qualities are applauded in our culture, while the broad-minded, inclusive approach is misunderstood as vagueness or non-directedness. 

 Such a one-sided view of Aries energy leads to one-sided development focused on a specific set of qualities that deny wholeness of being. Astrologers can be instrumental in changing this outdated view.

 A more generic definition of the sign of Aries reveals the dynamic growth potential of a seed as a metaphor for personal development. The seed grows in two directions - the shoot reaching upward to the air and light (fire) while the roots reach downward to earth and water. The seed prospers only when all four elements are present, just as the psyche grows best in a balanced environment.

Spring Equinox

 Aries is the first sign of the zodiac, placed at the vernal equinox. It represents the time of year when the seed germinates, when the Sun moves toward the Northern Hemisphere and begins the annual growth cycle. Aries provides an image of all the potential for life within the seed as well as the inspiration and spontaneity of the entire life cycle.

 Aries is expressive in the sense that it represents reaching out to all that is new and healthful. It does not discriminate in this process. Like the sprouted seed, it grows both upward and downward. As unique beings we repeat this process from birth. We continually reach upward toward the spiritual and downward into the depths of the psyche. We reach outward to others for sustenance and we also reach inward to the Self. Movement in opposite directions leads us to wholeness that is seen in the fulfilled growth of the seed as a mature tree. We know that the roots of a healthy tree extend as far as the visible portion of the plant and their structure is surprisingly like the branches. At the same time we are aware that the function of the root is vastly different, drawing life from the earth and water while the leaves draw life from the air and sun.

 Each of us draws the fullest measure of life when we are aware of both masculine and feminine energies at work within us. The work of discovering these energies and learning to use them fully is our life's goal; astrology is but one model for us to follow in determining our unique expression of the masculine and feminine.

 Beginning from the seed of the natal chart, we have a tool to explore our outer and inner potential to become whole. We take our cue from the seed.  We seek outward into the world and at the same time explore our hidden being in the depths of the psyche. We find the best of both the masculine and feminine uniquely represented in this sign. 

 Instead of distinguishing Aries as either masculine or feminine, we can choose the fullness of a particular archetype - the archetype of beginning. Aries symbolizes the unfolding of all our energies, then. We can see Aries as a starting point for human enterprise, embodying the promise of the entire life cycle. This unfolding is not  masculine or feminine in its essence, but fully conscious.

This article first appeared in Today’s Astrologer, the bulletin of the American Federation of Astrologers

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