Understanding Mars
Mars is the "Lesser Malefic," the engine of action, separation, and desire. It represents the libido, survival instinct, and the assertion of individual will against the collective. Mars is how we fight for what we want.
What Mars Governs
Mars governs the mobilization of energy - the adrenaline response, the drive to conquer, and the capacity for self-defense. It rules physical energy, sexuality, competition, and the courage to take risks.
About Personal Planets
Personal planets govern the tools the ego uses to interact with the immediate environment.
Mars Expression
Positive Expression
Courage, initiative, passion, physical vitality, and protection of the weak. The Warrior archetype fights for a just cause. It provides the drive to overcome obstacles and initiate new projects with confidence and energy.
Shadow Expression
Rage, violence, impulsivity, cruelty, and impatience. The shadow Mars is the bully or predator. In Aries: recklessness and selfishness. In Scorpio: vindictiveness, manipulation, and sadism. It can also manifest as blocked energy or "impotence" when repressed.
Mars & Tarot
Primary Correspondence
The TowerThe Tower (XVI) depicts a lightning strike destroying a structure - the sudden, violent release of energy that Mars brings to shatter false realities. It represents the necessary destruction that precedes rebuilding.
Secondary Correspondence
The EmperorThe Emperor (IV) corresponds to Aries, representing the disciplined, structured application of Martian authority and leadership - Mars energy channeled into building rather than destroying.
Mars Retrograde
Every 2 years for about 2-3 months
What It Means
Physical energy feels blocked. Projects stall. The libido may fluctuate wildly. Feels like "fighting a losing battle" with internalized will.
Advice
Do not initiate new conflicts - "He who draws his sword first during Mars Retrograde loses." Examine your relationship with anger and assertion. Address passive-aggressive tendencies. Strategize rather than attack.
Body Rulership
In medical astrology, Mars rules the Muscles, adrenal glands, head/face, red blood cells (iron).
Mythology of Mars
Ares (Greek) was feared as the god of bloodlust and chaotic warfare. Mars (Roman) was more dignified - father of Romulus and Remus, guardian of agriculture and war. This duality reflects Mars as both destructive force and protective, civilizing energy. The Mesopotamian equivalent is Nergal, god of the underworld, plague, and war.
Mars FAQs
Common questions answered
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