What it stands for
Mars stirs things into motion. Wherever it sits in a chart, that part of life gets energy, effort and sometimes a fight.
At its best it is brave and spirited, it loves a challenge and it feels happiest when it is overcoming something. It can also be generous and big-hearted.
Its challenge is haste. A quick temper, taking offence, acting before thinking. The older books said action without a plan does not last. Patience and a moment of thought make Mars far stronger.
How it was read before
Mars is the red planet, named for the god of war. It glows brighter when it comes close to the Earth.
The older books called it the lesser malefic, the smaller of the two difficult planets, with Saturn the larger. They also said other planets change Mars a great deal, so its harshest form is rarely seen.
They linked it to iron, sharp tools and the trades that use them.
Sit with this
Your fire is meant to protect and to build.
Sit with this: is there something you have been angry about that is really asking you to take action?