Astrological Planets: Mars in Brief

Planets play an important role in determining horoscopes. They are just as important as astrological sun signs, sometimes even more so. The symbol of Mars shows the arrow of activity drawn above the circle of the spirit. The arrow represents the active, goal-oriented feeling of Mars, and the placement of this arrow above the circle symbolizes that material goals are emphasized over spiritual ones. The glyph of Mars has come to represent the man and all that is male.

Mars, sometimes referred to as the "angry red planet," is named after the Roman god of war. It was found to have a surface resembling a planet that had once been devastated by war, hence the name. But the fiery, hot-headed, quick-to-act image is not the entirety of the astrological meaning of Mars. Mars represents our willpower, the energy of our ego, and all that enables us to pursue and accomplish our goals in life. Mars is how we assert ourselves as individuals. Through Mars, we grow strong through challenge, competition, and debate. By being forced to confront the strength of our desires and dedication, we grow stronger and more able to look after ourselves. Mars rules the head and especially the face. It also rules weapons.

Some of the qualities associated with Mars are: the masculine principle, assertion, leading the way, igniting possibilities, challenges, fights, debates, confrontations, courage, taking action, acting alone, independence, strength, initiation, agitation, competition, force, achievement, and survival.