Gryphon Astrology Blog

Horary Astrology Question:

After completing my MBA in 2001, I applied to a number of universities over the years to pursue a Ph.D. degree but, at best, I was on a waiting list. I have always felt this is something I need to attain. I am currently pursuing an industry designation but I still desire a higher academic education.

—A.

Nina Gryphon:

Dear A.,

Thank you for writing to me. I cast a horary chart for the time of your question:

Your education is signified by the ninth house, which rules higher knowledge and advanced learning. The ninth house is ruled by Venus, which is retrograde in the 12^th house, in Leo. Venus is not terribly strong in Leo, and its retrogradation is also an affliction. The 12^th house location is considered very weak as well, as the 12^th house is malefic. Venus is also applying to a sextile with Mars, which is not considered tremendously helpful, as Mars is a malefic planet.

Perhaps going for your Ph.D. may not be the best idea, given the extent of Venus’s afflictions. But let’s see whether you will end up going for the degree anyway. Mercury is your significator, as it rules your first house of the self. Mercury is very strong, because it is in Virgo, the sign of its domicile and exaltation. However, Mercury is in the fall of Venus, showing your disappointment with getting the Ph.D. admission in the past.

Ideally, I would want to see an aspect between Mercury and Venus, indicating you obtaining the degree. However, we also note that both of your significators; Mercury and the Moon, will enter sign is ruled by Venus (ruler of higher education in this chart), so there is a possibility of attaining your Ph.D. in nine or 10 years. However, without a direct aspect between our two main planets, I think this is a remote possibility, instead indicating your wanting to return to school at that time.

—Readers who wish to get a horary reading from Nina Gryphon may purchase one at top left.

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