Capricorn is the eleventh sign of the Zodiac, and signifies old age, symbolising the father figure relating to, and the embodiment of authority. They are practical, prudent, cautious and controlled. This aspiring goat climbs slowly, yet unforgivingly to the top of the mountain. This is the sign of politicians, administrators, power and officialdom.
POSITIVE TRAITS
Capricorn devises the means to imply practical implements into Society. They are diligent, hardworking and enjoy responsibility. They achieve their ambitions through perseverance, persistence and by applying a constructive, detailed approach in all things. They have a laconic, offbeat sense of humour but are also tactful, kindly, authoritative individuals. The Capricornians are traditionalists who are ambitious, thrifty and self-disciplined.
NEGATIVE TRAITS
Pessimism and nagging worries about irrelevant details are typical Capricornian traits, and their cautious thrift can often degenerate into selfish, mean - even miserly - behaviour. Their liking for order generally gives off a 'Holier than thou' attitude with regard to their own exacting self-discipline and narrow-mindedness. An over-emphasis on authoritarianism can cause too stern an attitude towards younger people. If ambitions are thwarted, the Goat will become restless and embittered.
MYTHOLOGY
This sign is seen in many guises - as the fish-tailed Babylonian god Ea, who rose from the deep to teach wisdom to Man ; and as the Greek God Pan who, fearful of Typhon, changed himself into a goat and jumped into the Nile River. Emerging as half goat, half fish, Zeus placed him in the heavens as Capricorn. Seen also as the winged goat or dragon, drawing the chariot of Saturn, it was said that Time ended with Capricorn- also known as the Gate of Death. Opposite sign Cancer symbolises the gate of Birth. Occultist Madame Blavatsky claimed Capricorn as the 'most sacred and mysterious' of the signs.
RELATIONSHIPS
COMPATIBLE SIGNS: Taurus and Virgo
POLAR (OPPOSITE) SIGN: Cancer
Cautious Capricorn are responsible - sometimes reproving - parents and partners, but their prudent handling of practical matters provide a solid and stable background. Patient Taurus and careful Capricorn, both unashamedly eart-bound with money (security) on their minds, albeit warmth and humour in their respective souls, could be a winning combination - Venus bringing a sultry sensuality to Saturn's wintry ways. Industrious Virgo will approve of Practical Capricorn and together they could make a respectable couple. Passions may be slow moving but will be rewardingly earth-shattering.
CAREER
Caves, mining and all underground work are traditionally associated with Capricorn. However, given their orderliness and organisational skills, any business requiring these abilities is appropriate: Capricorn will carry out orders from above and ensure that those below do their duty. This would also apply to those Capricornians who enter the Church, armed forces or teaching fields. Building and construction work is suitable.
HEALTH
Limiting diseases of rheumatoid/ arthritic origin are common Capricornian complaints as both Saturn and Capricorn rule the skeletal system - especially the knees. The skin may also be potentially troublesome. Eczema and psoriasis prevail, both known to be stress-related and the last a rheumatoid-related condition. Diseases associated with cold and cold age, (such as osteoporosis) are common, as are digestive problems due to stress.
TRADITIONAL ASSOCIATIONS OF SCORPIO.
GEMSTONES Garnet
METAL Lead
COLOURS dark grey, dark brown, black and indigo
ANIMALS.goats and other cloven footed creatures.
CITIES Delhi, Mexico City, Ghent and Brussels
COUNTRIES. India, Mexico, Macedonia and Orkney and Shetland.
GEMSTONE - GARNET
Treasured throughout the ages and particularly admire by the Victorians, the garnet, in which the Romans saw a resemblance to the fleshy pips of the pomegranate, is one of the silicate group. It is seen in three varieties: pyrope (yellow or crimson) almandine (brown-red) and spessartine (orange -red to near black) Holistically, the garnet is said to be most effective in curing depression and in strengthening a patients will to be cured. Significantly, as the gemstone attributed to Capricorn, it is also held to be beneficial in the treatment of arthritis and other calcification complaints to which the sign in prone. Thought by some also to be appropriate to capricorn is Chalcedony, a gemstone closesly relate to agate, and said to drive away melancholy and protect from the depressing influences of Saturn, the ruling planet of Capricorn.