Origins of the Zodiac: Libra

ORIGINS OF THE ZODIAC

THE MYTHOLOGY OF LIBRA

Latin Name: Libra meaning 'balance, scales'
Constellation: Libra
Archetype: The Scales
Associations: Themis
Planetary Ruler: Venus

Libra has been associated with the scales or the balance since Babylonian period, however some of its stars were shared with the constellation of Scorpio and formed the scorpion’s claws. The ancient Greeks saw these constellations in the same way, and it wasn’t until the Roman period that Libra officially adopted the shape that we are familiar with today. Because Libra anciently corresponded with the equinox, when the duration of day and night are equal, balance and equilibrium are indigenous to its mythology.

CONNECTION TO LIBRA

LIBRA: THE SCALES

The constellation Libra depicts the scales of justice, the symbolic emblem of Themis, the Greek goddess of divine order. Themis presided over laws, customs, and assemblies. She was an oracle and deliverer of wise counsel, associated with moral responsibility, right action, and observing social mores. Themis was the mother of Astraea, the goddess represented by the constellation Virgo. Their mythology is closely linked, reflecting their side-by-side placement in the zodiacal belt. Both goddesses carried the balance, and both concerned themselves with virtue and honor.

Although not historically linked to the zodiac until the Ptolemaic period, Libran qualities are also shared with the Egyptian goddess Ma’at, who governed morality, order, and truth. It was Ma’at’s job to judge the souls of the dead by weighing their heart against the feather of purity in the afterlife. If the heart of the deceased outweighed the feather, the soul would be devoured by the crocodile-headed goddess Ammit. Ma’at’s relationship to heavenly order and seasonal cycles intuitively link her to Libran mythology.

THE HARMONY OF LIBRA

The defining characteristic of Libra, the seventh sign of the zodiac, is harmony. It is the second air sign, emphasizing intellect and communication. It is also the third Cardinal sign, following insular Cancer, and opposing individualistic Aries. Libra is the sign where 'me' becomes 'we'.

In Virgo season, we declutter, get organized and skill-build so that we can be of service to others. But micromanaging and multitasking can get the better of us, and logistically, we can’t do everything all on our own. Just as we give help, we must be willing to receive it in equal measure. Libra season asks us to cultivate our people skills. We are encouraged to partner up with those who have the resources, abilities or know-how that we lack. In an ideal world, we’d surround ourselves with people who share our values, but that can’t always be the case. We can’t have everything our way once someone else enters the picture. So, when the sun transits Libra, we must learn to compromise and negotiate. Honesty, fairness and diplomacy become our core tenets. Like Themis, we must marry intuition and logic to weigh the pros and cons of our exploits.

MYTHS AS MAPS

In the quiet pull of the stars, there lies a map - spiralling back to our origins where myths and mysteries once intertwined with breath and bone. Reconnecting with these ancient stories in the realm of astrology is like stepping into an old song, whose melody we somehow remember yet cannot fully place. Each constellation a whisper, each planet a pulse, guiding us through a universe that knows us deeper than we know ourselves.

Here, myths are not merely tales but ancestral truths, woven into the fabric of our being, inviting us to reclaim fragments of ourselves lost in the modern rush. In the language of the heavens, we find our names written across epochs, asking us to listen, to remember, to understand that the vastness above is mirrored within. To know the stars is, in a profound way, to know ourselves.

Working with Libra mythology

Working with Libra mythology unveils a journey of harmony, justice, and the art of connection. Here are three paths to weave this balanced wisdom into your story:

1. Balance the scales of the Soul

Libra, symbolized by the scales, embodies the quest for equilibrium and fairness in all things. Let this image guide you to assess your relationships, choices, and inner world. Reflect on where harmony thrives: are the scales of your life balanced, or calling for thoughtful adjustment?

2. Seek Venus’ graceful wisdom

Ruled by Venus, Libra carries the essence of beauty, love, and the power of collaboration. Look to myths of divine partnerships and diplomacy as maps to cultivate connection and mutual respect. Chart where grace and empathy guide your path: do they strengthen your bonds, or call for deeper understanding?

3. Walk the path of the cosmic judge

Libra connects to myths of justice and truth, like Themis and Ma’at, who weigh the hearts and actions of all. These tales inspire you to seek integrity in your life and decisions. Reflect on how you uphold fairness, not only for others but within yourself, ensuring that both reason and heart shape your journey.

LIBRA JOURNALING PROMPTS

In your journal, let myth guide you to explore the below prompts during Libra Season.

1. What circumstances are tipping your personal scales?

Where do you feel out of balance? Pulling focus from one area of life and applying it to another can help you to achieve equilibrium.

2. Who can you partner with to make your life easier?

Someone in your circle can help you, even if you don’t share the same desires or values. Consider a deal or a compromise that would make this alliance mutually beneficial.

3. What truth have you left unspoken?

During Libra season, we don’t like to rock the boat! Yet, justice is rarely achieved without ruffling a few feathers, and honesty is the best policy.

We all embody each of the twelve signs within us, share this with others in your life.

Written by Nyssa Grazda & Magic of I.