Major Aspect Configurations

As you begin to delineate a chart you will often discover that some charts contain one or more major aspect configurations. You may want to include this information in your chart overview as these configurations have a considerable influence on the person's approach to life. Consider the meanings below.
Most astrology software programs will automatically draw the aspect lines, making these easier to spot in the beginning.

The Grand Square (or, Grand Cross)-four planets squaring each other forming a large square pattern on the face of the chart. Contained within the grand square are two oppositions, making this configuration either extremely stressful or a tremendous motivator for success. Probably some of both. Example: a chart with a planet in Aries, a planet in Cancer, A planet in Libra and a planet in Capricorn. The Aries/Libra planets forming one opposition and the Cancer/Capricorn planets forming the other one. A grand square requires the person to put forth great energy in order to overcome the challenges represented by signs and houses involved in the square.
In Cardinal signs-Initiating action is the focus. The life is marked by many changes. A tendency towards self absorption may cause it's own obstacles.
In Fixed signs-The challenge is breaking through old barriers and habit patterns. The material and sensual spheres may be over emphasized.
In Mutable signs-The challenge is finishing what one starts without losing flexibility. The mental sphere may be over emphasized.

The T Square -The t-square is exactly like the above configuration except that one of the signs is missing. Time and again this is described as trying to sit in a chair with three legs. Ironically, the individual becomes the fourth leg by acting out the traits which are missing in the chart.
Example: A t-square involving planets in Libra, Cancer and Capricorn. This individual can be very much like an Aries (the missing leg) at times. The person seems to instinctively fill in the missing traits in order to relieve the stress. The house of the missing leg takes on great importance also. If you had to try to sit in a chair with three legs it would be hard to ignore the corner that had no leg.

The Grand Trine -Three planets making a trine to each other forming a large triangle on the face of the chart. Example: A planet in Taurus, a planet in Virgo and a planet in Capricorn.
A grand trine creates an easy flow. However, there is little to make the person stop and re-evaluate before taking action. It's easy to dive head first into the things represented by the sign and house placements.
Fire signs-Highly active, enthusiastic and often self-involved. The conscience is often secondary to the immediate desires.
Earth signs-Reality can become kind of god. Many actions are motivated by material aims.
Air signs-The mental realm is paramount. It becomes easy for the person to detach himself from emotional entanglements. Intellectual.
Water signs-Emotional expression becomes paramount. Psychic or highly intuitive impressions are too easily absorbed, over stimulating the individuals already sensitive
nature. Imaginative

The Yod - A yod consists of two planets sextile to each other, while a third planet makes a quincunx to both of those. With respect to the third planet, it's sign and house placement as well as the house it rules in the chart, there is often a feeling of no choice. Matters seem to be fated and the more the person struggles to be in control the harder the situation becomes. The person feels as though free will is some kind of theory that doesn't apply to him at all. Spiritually the person is learning how to give up his own desires to those of a higher power. When he does this the life takes on new directions and opportunities undreamed of present themselves. The experience can leave one with a feeling of great humbleness towards the complex workings of universal forces.

Mutual Receptions
A mutual reception is not a major configuration aspect but it is another factor to consider when interpreting the chart. When two planets are in the each others signs a mutual reception has occurred.

Example:- Mars in Gemini and Mercury in Aries. Mars and Mercury are in mutual reception. Note that Mercury rules Gemini and Mars rules Aries. It's as though the planets are wearing each others clothes. The planets involved in a mutual reception work together in a mutual fashion. Like a friend willing to lend a helping hand in time of need. Even if these planets had difficult aspects from other planets or were involved in a challenging aspect between each other, then the mutual reception helps to smooth out the friction.

Chart example: Venus is in Capricorn and Saturn is in Libra. Venus rules Libra and Saturn rules Capricorn
Tip: Re-trace the configurations shown on a chart with a brightly colored pen for easier standout and later reference.

The Minor Aspects>>>