Conjunction

The conjunction is the most powerful aspect in astrology. When two planets occupy the same degree of the zodiac (or within orb of exactitude), their energies merge completely. They are no longer two separate influences — they become a single, amplified force that operates as one.

Whether a conjunction is "good" or "bad" depends entirely on the planets involved. Venus conjunct Jupiter is one of the most fortunate configurations in astrology — abundance, generosity, and pleasure magnified. Mars conjunct Saturn, by contrast, is one of the most difficult — drive meets restriction, ambition meets limitation, and the native must learn to channel enormous compressed energy without being crushed by it.

The conjunction is the beginning of the planetary cycle. When two planets come together, they plant a seed — a new phase of development that will unfold through the subsequent aspects (sextile, square, trine, opposition) until the next conjunction begins the cycle again. The conjunction with the Sun is particularly significant: planets combust (within 8° of the Sun) are hidden, overwhelmed by solar light. Cazimi (within 17 minutes of arc) is the opposite — perfect union with the Sun's power.

In natal charts, conjunctions create concentrated areas of energy. A stellium (three or more planets conjunct) in a single sign or house focuses an extraordinary amount of the native's life force in one area, often at the expense of other areas that receive less planetary attention.

The key to interpreting any conjunction is understanding both planets involved and then asking: what happens when these two forces cannot operate independently? The answer is always more intense, more focused, and more consequential than either planet alone.