Applying Aspect

Definition

An applying aspect is one where the faster planet is moving toward an exact angle with a slower planet but has not yet reached it. If the faster planet is moving forward, it sits at an earlier degree than the slower one; if it is retrograde — moving backward — it closes in from a later degree. The aspect counts as 'applying' from the moment the faster planet enters orb until it becomes exact.

In Tradition

Western astrologers consistently read an applying aspect as stronger than a separating one, because its energy is still building toward a peak. In horary astrology — the branch that answers a specific question from the chart of the moment it was asked — applying aspects are the main basis for judging whether the matter will come to pass.

In Practice

Working out whether the aspects between the key planets are applying or separating is a basic step in reading a chart. In horary work, an applying aspect between the planet ruling the questioner and the one ruling the thing asked about points to a future event and suggests the matter will resolve. The Moon's next applying aspect shows what comes next in the questioner's situation. There is a special case, 'mutual application': when one planet is direct and the other retrograde, both move toward each other at once — a configuration held to be especially potent for bringing events about.

Historical Origin

The distinction between applying and separating aspects is set out in Lilly's Christian Astrology (1647). The idea is older than Lilly, though — it is fundamental to Hellenistic horary and aspect doctrine.

Definition

In Tradition

In Practice

Historical Origin

Further Reading