Mercury
Mercury governs communication, thinking style, learning, and information exchange. Mercury retrograde is the most well-known astrological transit, associated with communication and technology glitches.
What is Mercury in astrology?
Mercury is the planet that rules thinking style, speech, writing, learning and short trips in astrology, and it is considered the ruler of Gemini and Virgo. As the planet closest to the Sun, it never appears more than about 28 degrees from it in the sky, so in a birth chart Mercury is always in your Sun sign or one of the two neighbouring signs. Mercury's sign describes how you process information: in a fire sign it is read as quick and direct, in an earth sign as step-by-step and practical. The most discussed topic is Mercury retrograde. Three times a year, for about three weeks each, Mercury appears to move backward, and this period is read as a time of communication hiccups, delays and review. A common misconception is that no decisions should be made during it; the advice that recurs in the tradition is to check the details twice. You can see the sign and house of your Mercury by creating your birth chart on Faltastik.
Related Terms
Moon
Represents emotional nature, instincts, maternal energy, and the subconscious. Your Moon sign reflects your emotional reactions and inner world. Changes signs approximately every 2.5 days.
Venus
Rules love, beauty, aesthetics, values, and financial matters. Venus's placement in your chart shows your relationship style and what you value.
Sun
The star representing the self, life force, and core identity in astrology. The sign where the Sun is placed in your chart is known as your 'zodiac sign'. Associated with creativity, ego, and willpower.
Mars
Represents energy, passion, aggression, sexuality, and drive. Mars's position shows your motivation sources and how you express anger.
Jupiter
The planet of expansion, luck, wisdom, philosophy, and abundance. Jupiter's placement in your chart shows where your greatest opportunities and growth areas lie.
Saturn
The planet of discipline, responsibility, restrictions, and maturation. Known as the 'Great Teacher'. Saturn Return (around age 29) is one of life's significant turning points.