Conjunction

Definition

A conjunction is what astrologers call it when two planets sit at the same spot in the sky — an angle of 0°, the circle divided by one. When this happens, the two planets blend into a single combined expression. How close they need to be (the orb) varies by system, usually 5–10°. In Hellenistic astrology, which works by whole signs, a conjunction simply means two planets share a zodiac sign, however far apart in degree.

In Tradition

Most Western astrologers read the conjunction as the most intense, concentrated of all the aspects: the two planets blend so completely that they act as one. Whether that feels easy or difficult is not fixed — it depends entirely on which planets are involved.

In Practice

A conjunction in your birth chart points to an area where two planetary functions work inseparably — a place of concentrated focus. When you watch the sky over time, a conjunction marks the start of a fresh cycle between two planets; the monthly New Moon is the most familiar one, a Sun–Moon conjunction. When three or more planets pile up within roughly 8° you get a stellium, a zone of exceptional emphasis. Comparing two people's charts, a conjunction shows where their energies merge directly.

Historical Origin

Hellenistic sources name it sunodos (σύνοδος, 'coming together'), where it was read as neutral — its meaning taken from the specific planets involved. It also held a unique place: in the Hellenistic scheme of right-side and left-side aspects, the conjunction was the one aspect that belonged to neither side.

Further Reading

• Sue Tompkins, Aspects in Astrology
• Robert Hand, Horoscope Symbols
• Bil Tierney, Dynamics of Aspect Analysis