The planets - their location in the sphere, and their interaction with each other - are the symbolic heart of astrology; all other considerations - houses, signs, fixed star alignments - are secondary considerations that take their place as supporters and moderators of planetary meanings. Good astrology is reliant upon the ability to discriminate between standard textbook meanings and altered forms of expression; to recognize where the strength of one planet will override the contradictory influence of another. These factors are largely determined through assessing the level of 'dignity' that each planet has. Familiarity with the process soon allows the astrologer to develop a fluent insight into how the planets are operating and where the fundamental focus of the chart is taking place. Yet modern textbooks often fail to explain the importance of assessing dignity and many students are unfamiliar with Ptolemy's table of essential dignity. This article is designed to act as an introduction to its use and meaning, particularly in its ability to offer descriptive symbolism of direct value to predictive branches such as horary.

There are two kinds of planetary dignity - essential and accidental. Ptolemy's table of 'essential' dignity is so named because it shows the parts of the zodiac where the traditional planets are always dignified. 'Accidental' dignity indicates the strength that a planet gains for some reason other than its zodiacal position. Mars on the midheaven, for example, is accidentally dignified due to the prominence of its position in the chart. Accidental dignity can be conveyed by any attribute that fortifies the planet - such as being direct, swift in motion, angular, free from combustion, in a beneficial aspect to a fortunate planet or conjunct a fixed star of a fortunate nature. In allegorical terms, the difference between essential and accidental dignity can be illustrated through an example question - 'will I get the job?' - a man represented by a planet with essential dignity may
receive promotion because he has qualities and skills that suit him to the job, while one represented by a planet with accidental dignity may get it because someone has helped him or because he was in the right place at the right time. (The former could be shown by accidental dignity derived from a beneficial aspect, the latter by angularity.)

Both essential and accidental dignity indicate promotion of planetary strength. In horary charts an essentially dignified planet is more likely to be favourable in its influence - like a contented person, the planet is operating within an environment that suits its temperament. Being contented, it is less likley to be destructive in its influence, and the actions of an essentially dignified planet are usually expected to be honourable. However, strength and dignity do not always go together. Where a planet lacks essential dignity, but is brought to prominence through accidental dignity - such as angularity and an unhindered motion - the result is a powerful planet that may or may not be beneficial. If that planet is acting as the ruler of an unfortunate house, is located in its sign of detriment, and is making hard aspects to other unfortunate planets, then the factors that offer accidental and essential debility are overwhelming. The planet's influence will be
detrimental while its power to express the influence is augmented.
 

Labels: planets, aspects, location

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