Twelfth House: Setting and Significations
Just like the Zodiac signs, there are twelve houses in an astrological chart. In this series of posts about the different parts of astrology, I will gather my research on the significations of each of the twelve houses.
In this post, I will focus on the twelfth house.
[I will add to this post when I broaden and deepen my knowledge of this house, and make new observations concerning it.]
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Twelfth House
Fast Facts
Keywords: Seclusion, escapism, private inner life, rest, reflection, the unconscious, faith, sacrifice, illness, institutions, confinement
Group: Cadent
Traditional Name: Bad Spirit
Rulerships: Pisces, Jupiter (traditional ruler), and Neptune (modern ruler)
Saturn finds its joy in the twelfth house
Setting and Significations
The last house of the chart is also the house that is associated with endings before the new beginnings of the first house. The twelfth house is also associated with transcendence: “leaving the wheel of life, if only for a short time, in order to be in a timeless state of bliss, tranquility, and reconnection with everything-that-is.” (Taylor, 2018, p. 114).
Its connection to institutions basically refers to it being traditionally linked to hospitals and prisons, according to Julia and Derek Parker in Parkers’ Astrology. However, the idea of institutions–and confinement–being associated with the twelfth house can also indicate feeling trapped in one's mind, especially since the twelfth house is also connected to the psyche and what’s going on below the surface.
But it doesn’t have to be that dark, because this house also “symbolizes the ability to surrender, to admit when you are exhausted or discouraged and need help. Trying to be strong all the time can lead to illness, disruptions to sleep, and even phobias. No one likes to admit they’re feeling overwhelmed by troubles, but it’s better than ending up in the hospital, jail, or an asylum” (Kent, 2023, p. 153).
To end on a more positive note, this house is also associated with higher service and sacrifice: “it perfectly describes the idea that whatever is given in a spirit of universal love, compassion, and charity is a true gift to the world.” (Taylor, 2018, p. 114).
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Sources
Brennan, Chris. The Astrology Podcast, episode 233: “Significations of the Twelve Houses, Part 2: Houses 7–12” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kbdVCaKMBR4), 2019-12-06.
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.
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.
