Eighth Aphorism: Aspect and Conjunction

8. Aspectus non potest diminuere significationem coniunctionis. Coniunctio vero diminuit significationem aspectus, nam coniunctio fortior est aspectu.

"An aspect cannot decrease the importance of a conjunction. However, a conjunction decreases the importance of an aspect, since a conjunction is stronger than an aspect."

It has frequently been observed that in traditional Astrology, a Conjunction is not merely a sort of Aspect, but is a different thing entirely. An Aspect (by Sextile, Square, Trine, or Opposition) is defined in terms of "casting rays" (by the planet with more degrees in its sign) and of "beholding" the other planet (by the planet with fewer degrees in its sign). These are clearly visual concepts, understood in Geometrical terms. A Bodily Conjunction, however, involves actual physical proximity or contact.

Ptolemy considers only those Conjunctions valid where both planets are on the same side of the Ecliptic. If they are on opposite sides of the Ecliptic, they are considered to pass each other by "like two ships in the night," and no real relationship exists. Most of the primary sources, however, do not concur with Ptolemy on this point.

This aphorism accords well with a statement found in al-Biruni (Kitab al-Tafhim), and answers our question about how many points to assign to Conjunction. If we assign one point to a sextile aspect, two points to a square aspect, three points to a trine aspect, and four points to a diametrical opposition, then we will very properly assign FIVE points to a Conjunction since it is stronger than any aspect.

And That is That, says

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