Decan

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In astrology, a decan is the subdivision of a sign.

In order to give fuller interpretation to the Zodiac Signs, ancient astrologers subdivided each Sign into periods of approximately ten days. These divisions are known as the "decans" or "decantes" and cover modifications of individual traits, attributed to minor planetary influences, which temper or blend with the ruling influence of the period. The ten-day spans are somewhat arbitrary in order to allow for the five (and sometimes six) extra days in the year beyond the 360 days required for the thirty-six decans. ^[1]

Astrologers believe that each of the decans has its own individual character.

In modern times, however, the assignment of decans has changed considerably. Each sign is allocated a triplicity, such as air, water, earth or fire. Each sign is therefore subdivided into three equal parts of 10 degrees each, and these parts are referred to as decans, or decanates.

Each decan of a sign is assigned rulership of the planet ruling the sign and secondary rulership of the planet ruling the decan.

The decans and their rulers are assigned as follows as based on the concepts of modern Western astrology:

The decans and their rulers are assigned as follows as based on the concepts of ancient Western astrology :

References

External links

• Decan meanings, from Three Books of Occult Philosophy by Henry Cornelius Agrippa and Astrolabium Planum by Johannes Engel.
• 3rd Decan Aries Talisman Example of decan talisman using traditional astrology.