Delineation
From AstrologyNotes
A
Delineation is an interpetation of an element in a chart or the chart as a whole. The various
points,
aspects,
signs, and
houses of the chart represent various
symbols. Since these symbols can have many meanings when translated into a language that non-astrologers (or even astrologers for that matter) can understand, the interpreter must make the decision of how to extract the meaning of the symbol.
While there are no hard and fast rules to chart delineation, there are some guidelines that can assist the astrologer. Generally these guidelines are developed by astrologers who have applied certain basic astrological principles developed in ancient times to real life experiences in an objective fashion, and then passed down through books and other mediums of communication.
Quality vs Quantity
There are two parts to delineation which must be used simultaneously to achieve the most accurate interpretation - quality and quantity. For example, when delineating quantitatively, one considers such things as number of easy or stressful aspects to a particular planet, proximity to an angle, number of planets in a sign or house, number of degrees in the orb, etc. Qualitatively, one might consider a planet's sign or house position, the nature of the planets it aspects, etc. The quantity of elements in a chart affects the quality and vice versa. If both are not used simultaneously, there are bound to be misinterpretations.
Examples of Qualitative Delineation
- Sun in Virgo personalities tend to be analytical.
- Mercury square Saturn tends to be inhibited in communication.
- Mercury conjunct the Ascendant indicates a communicative personality.
Examples of Quantitative Delineation
- Mercury has more weighting because it rules the Sun.
- Mercury has more weighting because it's conjunct the Ascendant.
Examples of Synthesizing Quality & Quantity
- Overcoming obstacles and inhibitions in communication will be a major theme in this person's life.
Methods
