Michael Goh | Singapore Astrologer · Feng Shui Consultant · Qi Men Dun Jia

What is traditional astrology, in contrast to modern astrology?

In the preface of my book, I have defined traditional astrology as a practice primarily concerned with the judgment of observable events and circumstances. Its emphasis is objective in nature, particularly in assessing outcomes that may be considered favorable or unfavorable. This forms the central orientation of my work, within which character and temperament are included, though the primary focus remains the interpretation of external conditions and observable manifestations. Modern astrology, by contrast, tends to place greater emphasis on the internal psychological profile of the native, with comparatively less emphasis on external events and circumstances.

In the book, all chart examples I have presented are concerned with observable and concrete manifestations. However, neither approach should be regarded as inherently superior or inferior. Much like the coexistence of Yin and Yang, or the polarity of internal and external, the same chart symbolism may be understood either as describing the inner psychological condition of the native or as manifesting through observable external events and circumstances.

Recently, I encountered the natal chart of Erika Kirk, spouse of Charlie Kirk, who was fatally shot in September 2025. The Rodden Rating of AA indicates that the birth data is highly reliable, based on a birth certificate. Let us apply the teaching framework set forth in my book, grounded in foundational interpretive principles, to evaluate how closely the chart symbolism corresponds with the observed circumstances in reality.

The 7th House signifies Spouse, Partner. The 7th House cusp falls in Taurus, and its ruler is Venus. Venus is placed in the 11th House, which signifies groups, communities, and social organizations. As discussed in the opening of the Rulers of the Houses chapter, through the principle of the First House ruler, the placement of its ruler indicates the areas of life in which the native is most strongly engaged and invested. 

One should recognize that the same interpretive principle can also be applied to the 7th House, understood analogously as the spouse’s 1st House. This provides a direct indication of the domains of life through which the spouse is most strongly engaged. This corresponds closely with the prominent role of groups, organizations, and wider social involvement within Charlie Kirk’s life circumstances.

We next assess whether Venus is well-disposed or afflicted. Before considering aspects, it is immediately evident that Venus is in its domicile in Libra. As stated in my text:

...a planet in domicile or exaltation tends to express its inherent significations more favorably...

From this factor alone, Venus may be considered well-disposed. A well-disposed Venus in Libra naturally indicates charisma.

...charming and relationship-oriented...

What then are the possible well-disposed manifestations of the Ruler of the 7th in the 11th House? An excerpt from the book states:

•Spouse has broad social connections and enjoys artistic, creative, or social pursuits.

•Spouse or partner may actively help in building a wider social circle or professional network.

Before proceeding, it is important not to approach astrology as a system to be memorized mechanically or applied in a rigid manner. The interpretive descriptions presented in my book are not intended for rote memorization, but as structured indications of possible manifestations intended to illustrate underlying astrological principles. One should not expect exhaustive lists of delineations or fully detailed explanations of every possible symbolic manifestation. The proper method of astrological study, and indeed of any disciplined study, is to understand the underlying principles and synthesize meaning through judgment rather than through recall or verbatim reproduction. Otherwise, one merely accumulates lists without developing the capacity to apply astrological reasoning in practice.

Returning to the present delineation, the symbolism thus far suggests that the spouse has wide social connections and active participation in groups and organizations. Likewise, the native’s social sphere is significantly shaped and expanded through the influence of the spouse. On this level, the symbolism is consistent with the observed circumstances.

However, dignity alone does not determine outcome. This is very important. As stated in the book:

The dignity or debility condition of a planet, similar to its inherent malefic or benefic nature, does not mean the outcome of a subject matter. We can think of dignities and debilities as describing an innate constitution...

We also observe that the interception of Gemini provides an additional layer of testimony regarding the 7th House. Mercury, as the intercepted ruler, is placed in the 12th House of hidden matters and concealed adversities. Mercury is afflicted by combustion with the Sun.

A possible interpretation of the 1st Ruler in the 12th House when afflicted (the reader may consider why this framing is used in place of a simple reference to the 7th Ruler in the 12th House delineation; the distinction is deliberate and reflects why astrological technique cannot be reduced to memorized house combinations), as noted in the text, is:

•Exposes the native to secret opposition, slander, or harmful intrigues.

We further note that the Sun, which afflicts Mercury, rules the 9th House. The 9th House, among its significations, pertains to belief systems. It is also the derived 3rd House from the 7th, with the 3rd House signifying communication, speech, and expression. In this configuration, belief systems and matters of speech, communication, and expression act as sources of affliction or difficulty for Mercury, significator of the 7th House, and thus for the condition of the spouse.

Going further, we may add to the delineation that both the Sun and Mercury are in Scorpio. This can indicate that the expression, speech, and communication under affliction tend to be intense, marked by strong conviction and potential bias, reflecting a typical Scorpio mode of articulation.

Strong passions and a critical edge can empower transformation but also stir conflict.

This is indeed reflected in Charlie Kirk’s communication style, marked by intensity, confrontation, and firm conviction, where speech and belief are publicly expressed.

Jupiter is also placed in the 7th House, providing additional testimony regarding the spouse. The Sun, placed in the derived 7th house of open enemies, is in opposition to Jupiter, thereby afflicting it from that position. This reinforces the interpretive indication previously described.

A closely corresponding astrological symbolism appears to reflect observable circumstances in the life of Charlie Kirk. Up to this point, the delineation has relied just on planetary nature, sign placement, house rulerships, aspects, and dignity conditions, all of which constitute the foundational framework of natal astrology, and should already be familiar to anyone who has studied basic natal astrology.

However, this level of analysis is not yet sufficient to fully evaluate how closely the chart symbolism corresponds with observed circumstances in reality. The chart contains additional layers of testimony not yet considered. One would also have expected the involvement of Mars, Uranus, Pluto, or the 8th House given the nature of the circumstances surrounding Charlie Kirk. Such symbolism is indeed present. 

Beyond the foundational techniques, there are further methods of interpretation, such as the in-depth analysis of dignities, reception, lunar phases, sect, status, and other advanced techniques beyond those listed. In the present chart, the Sun and Mars are in mutual reception. Reception is not as straightforward as commonly understood; its interpretive application is more nuanced. Likewise, the involvement of Mars in this configuration must not be understood solely in terms of its inherent planetary nature. For the present discussion, this will not be elaborated further. 

Clearly, the above analysis is not intended as a formal exercise in birth time rectification for Erika Kirk, but as a demonstration of symbolic correspondence within the interpretive framework employed in this analysis.

This represents traditional astrology in practice. The distinction is not determined by the historical system of techniques employed, whether Hellenistic, Medieval, Renaissance, or otherwise, but by the orientation of judgment toward observable events and circumstances rather than psychological characterization of the native’s inner life. Nor need traditional astrology disregard later technical developments. For example, midpoint techniques, widely developed and popularized in the 20th century, have their usefulness and can enrich natal delineation. In fact, in practice, I do make use of the three modern planets, insofar as they are evaluated within a traditional framework, as they are capable of providing insight into observable events and circumstances, as demonstrated in Example Chart #9 of my book.

If one approaches this book expecting a Modern Astrology text centered primarily on psychological introspection and inner analysis, it will not meet that expectation. While character and temperament are included where relevant, the primary emphasis remains the judgment of observable events and circumstances. Likewise, if one seeks a systematic exposition confined strictly to Hellenistic methods, or an extended engagement with historical quotation, textual transmission, or theoretical origins, that is not the purpose of this book. Its aim is the immediate application of traditional principles in actual chart reading and judgment.

In practice, the value of astrological method is not determined by its historical classification or technical lineage, but by its capacity to produce clear, direct, and usable judgment in relation to the question at hand. Whether one employs Hellenistic, Medieval, Renaissance, or later developments, including modern techniques, the decisive concern remains the purpose of interpretation and the clarity of its outcome.

If the foundational methods of delineation are not properly understood, and one cannot read a chart in a simple, direct, and intuitive manner, then there is little value in the accumulation of increasingly advanced techniques. Ultimately, it is the aim of judgment, not the taxonomy of methods, that determines the value of astrological practice.

Astrology, in its proper application, need not be made unnecessarily complex. In the next discussion, we shall turn our attention to 七政四余 (Chinese natal astrology).

Image: Erika Kirk and Charlie Kirk speaking at the 2025 Young Women’s Leadership Summit. © Gage Skidmore, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0, via Flickr

Golf icon Tiger Woods was recently arrested and charged with driving under the influence following a single vehicle rollover crash in Jupiter Island, Florida, on 27 March 2026. 

Police reports noted that Woods exhibited signs of impairment. While initial statements refer to observable impairment, the precise cause has not been publicly established.

Since 2009, Woods has been involved in several automobile related incidents, each carrying varying degrees of personal and professional consequence. Among these, the most serious occurred in February 2021, when he lost control of his vehicle at high speed along a winding road in Los Angeles, resulting in a rollover crash.

Let us now examine the present incident through the lens of his nativity, in accordance with astrological symbolism. For those already familiar with the principles set forth in my book, particularly the example charts of Ayrton Senna and Kevin Hart, the critical indications in this chart should be readily apparent.

We observe here an affliction between Mars, ruler of the Third and Eighth Houses, and the Moon in the Third House, configured by opposition. At the same time, Mars is also in opposition to Neptune in the Third House. Neptune generally signifies intoxication, medication, and states of impaired or altered perception in a general symbolic sense.

The accident itself occurred during a Third House annual Profection, a simple yet effective timing technique that brings emphasis to Third House matters such as travel, movement, and vehicular activity.

By contrast, the February 2021 accident took place during a Tenth House Profection. Mercury, ruling the First and Tenth Houses and placed in the Fifth, is in opposition to Saturn, ruler of the Fifth and Sixth Houses. Given that Mercury both governs the body of the native through the First House and naturally signifies movement and transport, one might be inclined to attribute the incident to its affliction by Saturn.

However, such a conclusion, while not without basis, remains insufficient. Proper judgment requires the recognition of corroborating testimonies and the reinforcement of conditions that render a particular manifestation more pronounced and significant. In this case, the Mercury Saturn configuration alone cannot be regarded as the principal cause. The underlying key indication should be easily identifiable for my students.

Finally, it must be asked whether every Third or Tenth House Profection will manifest in a similar manner. Such an inference would be hasty. Sound delineation requires corroboration from additional timing techniques. For example, the current incident occurred during the minor Firdaria period of Saturn, and readers may further consult the native’s Solar Return charts for additional confirmation.

Image of Tiger Woods: U.S. federal government work, public domain.

Whether in Western natal astrology or in the Chinese natal astrology system known as Qi Zheng Si Yu (七政四余), the First House and its ruler constitute the central focus of interpretation and a principal point of entry into a nativity. Although the cosmological premises, theoretical structures, and technical procedures of these two systems differ substantially, meaningful correspondences may nonetheless be observed. Among these is the broad resemblance in the significations attributed to the Twelve Houses, which, despite certain distinctions in emphasis and application, often parallel one another in scope. 

A marked divergence, however, lies in the decisive function accorded to the seasons within the traditional Chinese system. Seasonal Qi, in conjunction with the doctrine of the Five Elements of Metal, Water, Wood, Fire, and Earth, forms an indispensable interpretative framework and provides the metaphysical foundation of classical Chinese astrology. This same cosmological structure undergirds related metaphysical disciplines such as Ba Zi. The term element as employed here must not be mistaken for the Four Elements of ancient Greek philosophy that inform Western astrology. Rather, it refers specifically to the Five Element doctrine of Chinese metaphysics, a dynamic system of generation and control that describes the processes of change in the universe.

By comparison, Western natal astrology does not ordinarily treat seasonal conditions as an independent or decisive factor in delineation. Although the tropical zodiac is seasonally structured, seasonal quality is generally integrated into the broader symbolic framework of the signs and into humoral temperament theory. It may inform medical or temperamental analysis, yet it seldom functions as a key determinant in the judgment of the nativity.

Unlike the Western natal chart, in which the First House is conventionally positioned on the left, the Chinese natal chart adheres to a fixed cosmological orientation. Capricorn (子) and Aquarius (丑), both governed by Saturn and associated within this system with the Earth element, are invariably situated at the lower portion of the figure. Cancer (未) and Leo (午), ruled respectively by the Luminaries, are correspondingly placed at the uppermost sector. This arrangement reflects a cosmological ordering rather than a merely graphical preference.

Let us consider the natal chart above as interpreted according to the Qi Zheng Si Yu (七政四余) system. The First House (命宫) falls in Wei (未), corresponding to Cancer, and is ruled by the Moon. The Moon is located in Gemini (申), placed in the Twelfth House (相貌宫), a domain associated with withdrawal, seclusion, and hidden conditions. It is a waxing Moon approaching fullness and is therefore regarded as being in a strengthening phase. Moreover, it resides in Bi Xiu (毕宿), one of the Twenty Eight Mansions of the traditional Chinese stellar system. These Mansions belong to the traditional Chinese constellation framework and must not be confused with the medieval Arabic Mansions of the Moon. In this particular Mansion, the Moon is considered to gain additional strength.

The native was born in the winter month (子月), a season in which cold and the element Water predominate. The Moon is conjoined with Lilith (孛), one of the four virtual points employed in traditional Chinese astrology alongside the Lunar Nodes and Zi Qi (紫气). In this Chinese astrology system, each of the seven classical planets and four virtual points is assigned to one of the Five Elements in accordance with Chinese cosmological doctrine. Both Lilith and Mercury (水星) are associated with the Water element. Under such seasonal conditions, the conjunction with Lilith may prove detrimental, for excessive cold undermines the vitality of the Moon, ruler of the First House. 

Returning to the chart, Mercury in Sagittarius (寅) stands in opposition to the Moon, thereby intensifying the cold influence affecting it. The Moon is also connected to Mars in Libra (辰) by trine. Mars belongs to the Fire element. This fiery influence provides necessary warmth, moderating the Moon’s excessive coldness and supplying the heat required under winter conditions.

This brief exposition does not aim to provide a comprehensive treatment of the traditional Chinese natal astrology. Its purpose is rather to demonstrate the interpretative weight accorded to seasonal influence. Even when considering seasonal Qi alone, it becomes evident that Mercury and Lilith are detrimental to the native, whereas Mars proves beneficial and consequently becomes a source toward which the native is naturally inclined. From the standpoint of house rulership alone, Mercury and Lilith govern the Third House (兄弟宫), associated with siblings, travel, and learning, and the Twelfth House (相貌宫), pertaining to hidden adversities and seclusion. Mercury is further situated in the Sixth House (奴仆宫), traditionally connected with servants and illness. Mars rules the Fifth House (男女宫) of romance, pleasure, and creative expression, as well as the Tenth House (官禄宫) of rank and public standing, and is placed in the Fourth House (田宅宫), signifying domestic sphere, ancestral foundations, and matters of residence.

The native under consideration is the Tian Qi (天启) Emperor (1605-1627) of the Ming dynasty. Historical records relate that he suffered a near fatal boating accident when his vessel overturned and he was cast into the water. Although he was rescued, he never fully regained his strength, and the incident is said to have contributed to his premature death. Throughout his life he was frequently afflicted by illness, and the influence of those in his immediate environment, particularly powerful eunuchs and attendants, proved injurious both to his personal well-being and to the stability of his authority.

At the same time, the emperor displayed a pronounced inclination toward creative and manual pursuits, most notably an intense devotion to carpentry. He did not consistently devote himself to the direct administration of state affairs, entrusting much of the daily governance to the Chinese court eunuch Wei Zhongxian and to his wet nurse Madam Ke. His attention and vital energies were directed chiefly toward private and domestic concerns rather than the sustained exercise of imperial authority.

Obviously, it is evident from the chart that further layers of signification may be derived beyond those presently discussed, each contributing additional breadth and depth to the judgment of the nativity. For example, Mercury, though harmful in certain respects under seasonal consideration, nevertheless signifies nobility and imperial rank in this nativity. Both Mercury and Lilith also bear the Symbolic Star (神煞) known as Fu Chen (浮沉), traditionally associated with the danger of water calamity.

How might this nativity be interpreted according to Western astrological methods? If opportunity arises, I may address the same birth chart from that perspective in a separate discussion, highlighting the contrasts and interpretative nuances revealed by Western techniques.

Presented above is the birth chart of the Tianqi Emperor according to the Qi Zheng Si Yu (七政四余) system, reproduced here in its original format as transmitted in Wen Wu Xing An (文武星案), a late Ming dynasty compendium compiled by the Ming astrologer Lu Wei (陸位). The work was completed in the forty fourth year of the Wanli reign of the Ming dynasty, corresponding to 1616, and was published in that same year. Four years later, it was supplemented and continued with additional material. The compendium preserves more than a thousand natal case records of prominent civil and military officials of the Ming period.

I am pleased to announce the publication of my new book, Foundations of Traditional Natal Astrology: A Practical Guide to Birth Chart Interpretation. This work presents a structured and disciplined introduction to the principles of natal astrology as transmitted through the classical Western tradition. It is written for students seeking clarity, coherence, and sound method in the interpretation of birth charts.

The book guides readers through the essential structural components of natal delineation. Each chapter addresses a fundamental element of chart judgment, including signs, planets, houses, rulers, and aspects, and demonstrates how these symbols operate together within an integrated interpretive framework. Emphasis is placed on practical application. The interpretive approach adopted in this work prioritizes practical judgment grounded in traditional symbolism. While character and temperament are included where relevant, the primary emphasis remains the assessment of concrete conditions and observable manifestations in the life of the native. Particular attention is given to planetary condition, rulership, and the principles of synthesis that allow multiple chart factors to be weighed coherently.

Real-life chart examples illustrate how planetary configurations manifest in lived experience. Through these examples, readers observe the consistent operation of astrological principles across different charts and learn how disciplined application of astrological principles leads to clear and grounded judgment.

Foundations of Traditional Natal Astrology is intended for those seeking a disciplined foundation in traditional natal astrology, as well as for experienced practitioners refining their judgment. It may be used for systematic study or consulted as a reference in ongoing practice. In either case, the book aims to cultivate coherent chart reading and disciplined judgment rooted in enduring principles.

This book proceeds from the conviction that advanced techniques cannot compensate for an insecure grasp of foundational principles. Its purpose is to cultivate clear, coherent, and disciplined astrological judgment grounded in sound foundational principles. Readers interested in the interpretive orientation adopted throughout this work may also wish to read this recent article, which examines the natal chart of Erika Kirk. The discussion further explains this approach, addresses common misconceptions concerning the nature of traditional astrology and the scope of the methods employed, and illustrates that sound astrological judgment need not be made unnecessarily complex when the foundational principles are properly understood. Readers may also find the various natal chart studies published on this website of interest.

The book is now available for purchase on Amazon (Paperback).
https://www.amazon.com/dp/9819452511

In the birth chart below, Sun is in Exaltation. Moon, Mars and Venus are in Domicile. Jupiter is in Triplicity. Saturn is Peregrine. Most are high in dignity, with one in Peregrine. Sun is ruler of 7th House (Partner, Spouse). Jupiter is ruler of the 2nd House (Money) and 10th House (Status, Recognition, Career). Both of them are in the 2nd House of Money. Right-away, one basic symbolism from such configuration should come to your mind. Spouse or Partner is well-off, social status is pretty good. Can the native benefit from Spouse? In this chart, yes. 

Sun is with Mercury. Mercury is ruler of 5th House (Dating, Romance, Performance, Entertainment). In the beginning, I mentioned that most planets in this chart are high in dignity. With one exception; Mercury. Mercury is in Detriment. Some may add that Mercury is also in Fall. Not only that, Mercury is retrograde. Based on dignity condition alone, Mercury is not fantastic. Suffice to say, the dating opportunity, situation or partner may be controversial, unconventional or deviant. Nevertheless, the dating or romance relationship leads to Marriage; Mercury with Sun. But that's not the main point. Despite the less than stellar dignity condition, Mercury is actually important in this chart. It can bring benefits due to its configuration.

This is the birth chart for Mikaela "Mikey" Madison Rosberg, an American actress who won the 2025 Academy Award for Best Actress for her role in "Anora". The film Anora follows the story of Ani, a sex worker, engaging in a transaction where she is paid by a wealthy client, in this case, Vanya, for her services. 

did she choose the role, or did the role choose her? 

Actors seemingly have this inherent advantage of allowing planetary energies, either by choice or not, an outlet to express themselves; to be played out in one's acting role. In some situations, when favorable planetary configurations manifest through an alternate persona—such as acting in a film or drama—this can bring out the positive benefits into real life. In this case, for Mikey Madison's Jupiter, ruler of her 10th House (Career, Recognition). Jupiter Major Time Period begins 2019. Rather similar for Brandon Fraser, which I have talked about in another post. If you catch on quickly, this "alternate manifestation" implies something significant.  

The planetary energies in our birth chart will inevitably manifest—it's only a question of who, what, where, and when. We can choose to respond reactively or take a proactive approach. Consciously, we can create circumstances that resonate with our planetary configurations, guided by deliberate intent and desired outcomes.

In any case, a planet in poor dignity does bring problems, but it can also bring benefits if configured appropriately; Mercury. Likewise, a planet in good dignity does bring benefits, but it can also bring problems if configured inappropriately. For example, Mars in Scorpio. Year 2031 marks the transition to Mars period from a Major Time Period perspective in this chart.

On a different note, if you are interested, look at the indicators pertaining to her parents in her chart. Her parents are both psychologists. 

When delineating Astrological Birth Charts, simplicity is the ultimate sophistication. 大道至简单. There really isn't a need for complex calculations of different Lots, the Various Chart Rulers, the use of Nautical Metaphors etc. Nothing comes closer to the truth than symbolism in Astrology. There are several layers of symbolism in Horoscopic Astrology, and the most fundamental ones one must first be familiar with when learning Astrology are the Planetary symbolism, Connection symbolism and House symbolism.

Let's take a quick look at this birth chart, that of Salvador Dali the Spanish Surrealist Artist, by peeling off the top few layers of the onion. I mean, the chart. 

1. Planetary and House Symbolism

The planet Saturn, naturally symbolizes Delay, Mature, Old, Rigid, Stubborn, Persistence. Saturn is Cold and Dry. The 7th House symbolizes the status, condition or affairs pertaining to Spouse (Wife, in this chart) and Marriage. Saturn rules the 7th House in this chart.

The wife of Salvador Dali, Elena Ivanovna Diakonova or known simply as Gala, was 10 years older than Salvador Dali and known for her strong will and determination, traits that some might perceive as stubborn. The marriage is enduring, but marked with tension and numerous challenges. Saturn by its natural symbolism alone, does not goes well with warmth and love. But it can persevere.

2. House and Connection Symbolism

The 9th House symbolizes Foreign and Travels. Sextile symbolizes a connection between planets that brings forth positive opportunities and luck. Jupiter, ruler of the 9th House, sextile Saturn, the Spouse. 

Salvador Dali's wife was from Russia. Salvador Dali traveled to Paris in 1929, during the premiere of the film 'Un Chien Andalou' which he had collaborated with, and during this period was introduced to Éluard, then husband of Gala.

Dali invited back Éluard, Gala, and their daughter Cécile to spend the summer of 1929 with him in Cadaqués, a coastal town in Spain. This visit was a turning point for Dali and Gala's relationship.

3. Planetary, House and Connection Symbolism

Sun naturally symbolizes the Father, especially in the Day Birth Chart. The 3rd House symbolizes Siblings. Mercury is the ruler of the 3rd House. 10th House symbolizes Public Image, Recognition. Mars is the ruler of the 10th House. Square symbolizes a connection between planets that brings forth difficulties, challenges and conflict. Sun, Mercury and Mars square Saturn, the Marriage.

Dali's marriage to Gala not only faced public criticism and resistance but also strained the ties with his Father and Sister.

Just from these top few basic layers, one already can have a quick surface understanding of certain events or circumstances surrounding the native. Certainly, from the marriage perspective, there are other circumstances one can also see merely from these basic layers, such as the affairs of Gala, amongst others.

And if one continues to peel off more layers, either through the expansion of the fundamental layers or through further understanding of other layers of deeper symbolism present in Astrology besides the fundamentals such as Movement symbolism, Configuration symbolism, Placement symbolism. etc., you can see why Gala is very significant for Salvador Dali personally and professionally; the growing fame and success of Dali's; the controversial and unconventional style of Dali's; the turbulent yet enduring and unconventional marriage, etc.