Decanates

Each sign of the zodiac (or house when using the equal house method) is measured at 30°, which can be divided into three groups of 10°, each group known as a decanate.

The first ten degrees (0 to 9) of any sign are called the First Decanate, the second ten degrees (10 to 19) the Second Decanate, and the third ten degrees (20 to 29) the Third Decanate.

The first decanate of any particular sign corresponds to the sign being studied; so for example, the first decanate of Aries will relate to Aries. Every sign is allocated a triplicity (or element): air, water, earth or fire. For example, the element fire is allocated to Aries, Leo and Sagittarius. The second Decanate takes on the characteristics of the next sign in the same element and so the second decanate for Aries is Leo. The third decanate is the last sign within the same element and so for Aries it would be Sagittarius.

For following table shows the decanates found in all the twelve signs.

Each decanate in a sign has the qualities of the sign ruling it. The first decanate is the strongest, as it corresponds to a double energy of that particular sign whereas someone born during the second and third decanate will be less typical of that sign.

Significance of the Decanates

The decanates also have significance relating to the Mind, Body, and Spirit.

Degrees 0 to 9

• Physical: relating to the Body

When a person has many planets in these degrees they are materialistic, practical and sensible.

Degrees 10 to 19

• Mental: relating to the Mind

Those with more planets in this decanate are said to be intelligent, concentrating more on mind activities.

Degrees 20 to 29

• Spiritual: relating to the Spirit

Those with many planets are in this decanate are spiritually inclined.