Today, we're talking all about Venus, the planet of love.
Interested in astrology? Most people begin their journey into the stars by way of looking into their unique birth chart). Also known as a "natal chart," this illustrated graph is a two-dimensional representation of the three-dimensional solar system and corresponding zodiac. Calculated based on your date, time, and location of birth, the chart reveals the position of the planets, asteroids, stars, and celestial points at your exact moment of arrival. Your birth chart is a cosmic roadmap: It offers insight into the nuances of your personality and karmic lessons, as well as past, present, and future events. And when it comes to matters of the heart, your birth chart also illuminates romantic compatibility with others — that's why we'll be talking all about the planet Venus in this guide to the stars.
Within astrology, each planet has a different responsibility: The sun, though not a planet, also matters in the birth chart and manages your ego and sense of self; the moon, on the other hand, governs your inner world and emotions. Mercury rules communication (which is why there are so many misunderstandings when it goes retrograde), and assertive Mars represents impulse, including sexual urges. But when it comes to love and those magical, gushy, butterflies you may feel in your stomach, Venus runs the show.
Stargazers have observed Venus’s vivid radiance for thousands of years. Considered a “benefic" planet, Venus has long been considered auspicious, which explains why the ancient Romans named this planet after the goddess of love, beauty, and money. Interestingly, although Venus is depicted as breathtakingly magnificent, her genesis story isn’t particularly appealing.
According to classical mythology, after Uranus (the Father of the Sky) was castrated by his son, Cronus (more commonly known as Saturn), Uranus’s testicles were thrust into the ocean. Uranus’s genitalia, along with his blood and semen, formed a thick, dense, mist from which Venus (or Aphrodite) emerged. How precious.
The planet Venus, however, seems unaffected by the grizzly origins of its namesake: Venus is a passionate romantic who simply loves to be in love. Within your birth chart, Venus governs courtship and adoration, as well as personal taste and aesthetics. Venus represents your values, including your relationship with finances and material possessions. This planet is all about pleasure, so Venus just sits back and relaxes while it gets exactly what it wants. That's right, folks, Venus is living the good life — this celestial body is all about luxury.
Working With Venus
Skeptical readers (I'm looking at you, Capricorn) may think that Venus's functions sound too good to be true. If Venus is so effortlessly romantic, then why is love often so messy and complicated? You're right to be suspicious, cosmic warrior. Though fledgling astrologers often look to Venus as a measure of long-term compatibility, this common mistake always results in disappointing outcomes. The truth is, Venus reveals our idealization of love and beauty. Though Venus's desires are alluring, they don't necessarily translate to reality or — perhaps even more importantly — what is actually sustainable for our souls.
I often refer to Venus as the 'Marie Antoinette of the zodiac.' Simply put, this planet is extremely hedonistic.
When working with clients, I often refer to Venus as the “Marie Antoinette” of the zodiac. Venus wants to eat decadent sweets, take six-hour baths, and be fanned by gigantic palm leaves. While this is great in theory, these interests quickly devolve into superficial indulgences. And because Venus refuses to take off its rose-colored glasses, this planet lacks the perspective to distinguish “wants” from “needs.” Simply put, cosmic warriors, this planet is extremely hedonistic. So while Venusian energy can certainly help you redecorate a bedroom or host a bangin’ party, at the end of the day, it works neither logically nor emotionally. Ultimately, Venus just wants to be adored.
How to Unpack Your Venusian Sensibilities
So, we've learned that Venus isn't necessarily to be trusted — so why even deal with this lotus-eating planet in the first place? Remember, cosmic warriors, Venus may be indulgent, but it isn't deceitful: This planet helps define our relationship with the beautiful things in life. In fact, Venus’s placement in your birth chart is extremely significant. In order to take a closer look at your relationship with Venus, calculate your free birth chart on Astro.com and then head back here to check out the guide below to interpret your results.
First, identify which zodiac sign Venus occupies. This is a critical first step, as the planet's sign will reveal precisely how it wants to indulge. Venus in Cancer, for instance, seeks security in partnership, while Venus in Aquarius is fueled by more unorthodox dynamics. Once you've identified Venus's sign, take a look to see what connections (in astrospeak, “aspects”) it’s making with the other planets in your birth chart.
If Venus is linked to Mercury, for example, communication will play a significant role within your relationships. If Venus is working closely with Saturn, however, Venus's hedonistic sensibilities may be tempered by Saturn's signature stoicism. Venus's connection to Mars, accordingly, reveals the interplay of sex and love: Do they work harmoniously, or serve entirely different purposes?
Venus is an essential piece in your personal cosmic puzzle. This benevolent planet reminds us that, at the end of the day, we deserve love.
Venus's attitude is also influenced by which astrological house it occupies. The birth chart is divided into twelve segments, referred to as "houses," each representing a different area of life. For instance, someone with a Leo Venus in the sixth house (which represents your daily routines) may always be seeking opportunities to perform and attract attention within their office environment. Alternatively, an individual who has Gemini Venus in their second house, which symbolizes personal finances, may achieve monetary success by pursuing multiple careers or side hustles simultaneously.
Your birth chart is a fully functioning ecosystem. It comes pre-assembled; there are no missing parts or broken pieces. The planets tell a story, and as you continue to study their positions — their signs, locations, and relationships with the other celestial bodies — you begin to unlock your unique cosmic narrative. Your chart exists for a reason, but it's up to you to interpret your individual truth. Venus is an essential piece in your personal cosmic puzzle. This benevolent planet reminds us that, at the end of the day, we deserve love.
Venus Through The Signs
Venus's mission is to give and get pleasure, or what the planet perceives as pleasure is dictated by its zodiac sign. Once you discover which sign Venus occupies for you (do this by calculating your natal chart), use these descriptions of Venus sign meanings as a jumping-off point for further exploration.
Aries Venus
Aries are strong and mighty warriors. Even Venus — the most sensual planet in the sky — is no match for the fiery energy of an Aries. When Venus occupies Aries, it thrives on competition: They simply love the chase. People with Aries Venus adore flirtatious romances that are defined by physical touch, exciting spontaneity, and (of course) some playful bickering to keep the flame burning.
Taurus Venus
Taurus is governed by Venus, so these combined energies blend harmoniously. As an earth sign, Taurus loves to indulge its five sense through luxurious fabrics, enchanting aromas, and gentle caresses. Although Taurus Venus's are extremely romantic, they also know how to advocate for what they want. Taurus Venus needs a relationship that's rooted in reality — if this sign feels unsupported, they will seek comfort elsewhere.
Gemini Venus
As an air sign, Gemini is all about communication. Likewise, a Gemini Venus is drawn to information like a moth to a flame. Expression is critical for the Gemini Venus soul, so those born under this chatty sky find pleasure when pursuing their curiosities. Moreover, since Gemini also is linked to local community, for Venus Gemini, there is often no distinction between friend and lover — in fact, Gemini Venus prefers the ambiguity. Hey, it's more fun that way.
Cancer Venus
Cancer, symbolized by the crab, protects its soft interior with a tough exterior. In order for these celestial crustaceans to open up, they need to feel safe and secure. Accordingly, nothing is more rewarding to a Cancer Venus than building a relationship based on trust, loyalty, and protection. Just as the crab carries its domicile on its back, Cancer Venus is happiest when building a partnership that feels like home.
Leo Venus
Leo governs the heart, and fittingly, those born under the Leo Venus sky are true romantics. Regal and generous, Leo Venus loves to worship (and be worshiped by) their partners. This fiery Venus idealizes the concept of a "power couple" — after all, Venus Leo is constantly seeking its co-ruler. For Leo Venus, a partnership is personal, because they see it as a reflection of their own identity. So, when this sign feels rejected, proceed with caution, as lions can also be extremely ferocious.
Virgo Venus
Virgo Venus people love to problem-solve, and fittingly, seek a partnership that is based on reciprocity. Virgo's earthy energy is practical and organized, so when fused with sensual Venus, this placement is wooed by thoughtful acts of service. Small and subtle gestures make Virgo Venus's heart aflutter. For these sweet lovers, there is truly nothing more romantic than when their closest companion lends a helping hand.
Libra Venus
In addition to Taurus, Venus also governs Libra, so Venus is extremely comfortable working with Libra energy. However, while Taurus Venus is all about physical sensuality, Libra Venus is much more cerebral. Symbolized by the scales, Libra is obsessed with balance, harmony, and symmetry. Fittingly, Libra Venus people are total aesthetes. Those born with this placement love indulging their exquisite style and taste within their partnerships. Simply put, Libra Venus needs to be in a relationship that looks good.
Scorpio Venus
Scorpions are shadow dwellers, and similarly, celestial Scorpios derive their dynamic power from the unseen realms. When sensual Venus occupies this sign, it is enchanted by intense, mysterious, and karmic bonds. Scorpio Venus loves anything with a dash of danger, so those born under this elusive sky crave deep, erotic intimacy that illuminates from the inside.
Sagittarius Venus
Sagittarius is associated with travel, discovery, and philosophy. Fittingly, when the planet of love occupies this sign, Venus's gaze shifts from romance to rodeos. People with Sagittarius Venus are drawn to explorers, nomads, and daredevils. Adventure is a huge turn-on for these fiery lovers, but nothing excites Sagittarius Venus more than a good sense of humor. Sagittarius Venus love to be entertained, so laughter will always be their number one aphrodisiac.
Capricorn Venus
Capricorn is the boss of the zodiac, and those with Capricorn Venus are always seeking their proverbial daddy. Although Venusian energy is tempered by Capricorn's signature stoicism, this planet finds its erotic outlet by experimenting with power dynamics and role play. Because Capricorn abides by the "all work and no play" mantra, people born under the Capricorn Venus get off on pushing these limits.
Aquarius Venus
Aquarius energy is progressive, offbeat, and aloof. Accordingly, those who have Aquarius Venus find pleasure in nonconformity. In fact, for the Aquarius Venus lover, the ideal partnership cannot be defined, because Aquarius Venus refuses to describe their interpersonal bonds through societal conventions. Naturally, Aquarius Venus also gravitates towards eccentric, free-spirited, and rebellious individuals. When it comes to love, this Venusian placement lets its freak flag fly.
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Pisces Venus
The last sign of the zodiac, the Pisces spirit is mystical and ethereal. Although Pisces energy can be hard to contain (after all, the ocean is boundless), Venus absolutely adores dwelling in this sign. In fact, Venus is considered "exalted" in Pisces, meaning that in this sign, Venus is functioning at its highest vibration. Pisces Venus finds beauty in absolutely everything and is particularly drawn to creative pursuits such as music and art. For these lovers, romance is deeply spiritual.