Libra: Symbolism and Archetypes
In this series of posts about the different parts of astrology, I will gather my research on the symbolism and archetypes of the Zodiac signs.
In this post, I will focus on Libra.
[I will add to this post when I broaden my knowledge of the symbolism, deepen my knowledge of the sign, and make new observations concerning it.]
If you want early access to my posts, as well as additional content, join my Patreon.
The Symbolism and Archetypes of Libra
Fast Facts
Keywords: Diplomatic, romantic, charming, harmonious, adaptive, indecisive, changeable, self-indulgent
Triplicity (Element): Air
Quadruplicity (Modality): Cardinal
Polarity: Diurnal, Positive, Yang
Quality: Hot and Moist
Traditional Ruler: Venus
Parts of the Body: Kidneys
Symbolism and Archetypes
The scales are Libra’s symbol, representing the sign’s “function of creating peaceful equilibrium and perfect balance.” (Taylor, 2018, p. 47). In ancient Egypt, Anubis used the scales to weigh the souls of the dead against a feather of truth to determine their afterlife fate. As Libra is the sign before Scorpio, which is a sign that has come to be associated with death and rebirth, the scales are fitting (Kent, 2023, p. 75). While Libra is fair and diplomatic, the sign also has an indecisive quality. Trying to see things from all perspectives or all sides of the story, to be as fair as possible, can lead to stagnation.
Because of their inherent sociable nature, Librans have a hard time dealing with loneliness, more so than any other sign. They need functioning relationships in their lives, especially if they have a tendency to be lazy and indecisive. The presence of a partner can motivate Librans to be more action-oriented and decisive.
Since Libra is ruled by Venus, this sign has a strong association with everything beautiful––in particular, any kind of art. Strong placements here can indicate artists, musicians, designers, and others who create beauty in the world.
When strong planetary placements are in Libra, especially the Sun, “your life purpose is to personify and promote the art of civilized living. You find inner balance through developing poise and grace within yourself” (Taylor, 2018, p. 46). When there are other planets in this sign, they “will express themselves with polite refinement, seeking to create an atmosphere of harmony and acting with consideration for others.” (Taylor, 2018, p. 46).
Strengths: Diplomatic, romantic, charming, easy-going, sociable, idealistic, just, peace-loving, harmonious, considerate, honest, artistic
Challenges: Indecisive, changeable, gullible, easily influenced, self-indulgent, complacent, inactive, fickle, over accommodating, argumentative, insincere
If you want early access to my posts, as well as additional content, join my Patreon.
Sources
Brennan, Chris. The Astrology Podcast, episode 180: “Zodiac Sign Meanings Part 2: Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, and Pisces” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Msykg10xqYc), 2018-11-13.
Gillett, Roy. The Secret Language of Astrology: The Illustrated Key to Unlocking the Secrets of the Stars. London: Watkins Media Limited, 2012.
Kent, April Elliott. The Essential Guide to Practical Astrology: Everything from zodiac signs to prediction, made easy and entertaining. San Diego, California: Two Moon Publishing, 2023.
Nicholas, Chani. “An Introduction to the Zodiac Signs” (https://www.chani.com/astro-education/an-intro-to-the-zodiac-signs) (Accessed: 2026-02-12).
Parker, Julia & Derek Parker. Parkers’ Astrology: The definitive guide to using astrology in every aspect of your life. London: Dorling Kindersley Limited, 2020.
Taylor, Carole. Astrology: Using the wisdom of the stars in your everyday life. London: Dorling Kindersley Limited, 2018.
