Showing posts with label Relationships. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Relationships. Show all posts

Traditional Astrology and Symbolic Correspondence: Erika Kirk’s Birth Chart and the 7th House Signification of Charlie Kirk

Erika Kirk and Charlie Kirk

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.

Birth Chart of Erika Kirk

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

Basic Symbolism in Astrology: The Planet Saturn in Salvador Dali

Salvador_Dalí_1939

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. 

Salvador Dali Horoscope 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.

Chinese Horoscopic Astrology 七政四余, Immortal Zhang Guo Lao and a Rinpoche Scandal

Eight Immortals Crossing the Sea

八仙过海。The Eight Immortals Crossing the Sea. Older generation - don't look at me - should have heard of them. One of the Eight Immortals is Zhang Guo Lao (张果老). Zhang Guo Lao was said to be a Taoist in the Tang Dynasty. According to legend, the book 【果老星宗】, a text on Chinese Horoscopic Astrology (known as Qi Zheng Si Yu 七政四余) was authored by Immortal Zhang, compiled, edited and arranged in the Ming Dynasty by Lu Wei (陆位). It is a comprehensive text on Chinese Horoscopic Astrology system, which incorporated some elements of Hellenistic and Indian Astrology that was introduced to China before then.

However notably, Chinese Horoscopic Astrology has its own unique system such as the consideration of Five Elements, Seasonal Strength, Shen Sha (神煞), Constellations etc. Though we are all under the same sky, 'We are the world, we are the children'. Digress. Though we are all under the same sky, looking above at the same astronomical planets, e.g., the planet Venus, its interpretation and meanings can have variations whether according to Hellenistic/ Medieval Astrology or Chinese Astrology system, though having the same planetary positions and all. Nothing unexpected here, we are all humans, but having different races and cultures. 

Today, 七政四余 is not as widely practiced compared to other traditional Chinese destiny metaphysics knowledge such as Ba Zi (八字) or Zi Wei Dou Shu (紫微斗数). The prohibition of learning astronomy knowledge or dissemination outside of the Official Astrology Bureau in ancient China greatly inhibits the spread of 七政四余, which requires the knowledge of astronomy. That is, solely for the royals and the privileged.

Immortal Zhang Guo Lao

张果老仙

One day, I was chatting with my nephew, and in his room I saw a book that caught my attention on his shelf. The book title is "Think Like a Monk". Instinctively, I thought, 'Ohh Monk'... Right away I said he could have simply ask me to tell him how to... Anyway, it reminds me of a case of one Rinpoche born in Bhutan (Rinpoche, a religious teacher held in high regard among Tibetan Buddhists, used often as honorific title) in the book 【果老星宗新, 1999】 by  Li Guang Pu (李光浦 born 1942, 香港中文大学地理系毕业), who had advanced the knowledge and spread of 七政四余 and other Chinese Metaphysics through his research and publications.

For this case, it is definitely not about thinking like a monk. Since it is about a Rinpoche's sex scandal. !? Below is his 七政四余 Chinese Horoscopic Astrology birth chart. To put it simply from Li Guang Pu's perspective, we have the Shen Sha 华盖, 文昌, 科甲, 孤辰 and Planet Zi Qi (紫气, an astronomical point in the sky with no actual planetary correspondence) in his 1st House (Self), implying academic talent and affinity with non secular activities since young. Furthermore, his Core Ruler, Mercury is right beside Zi Qi, which is his Useful Planet, strengthening the affinity though weakening him in the process. 

Rinpoche Birth Chart

Mars, ruler of his 7th House (Wife, Marriage, the Opposite Sex) and Moon (General Signification of Woman, Wife) enters into his 1st House. A sign of Women affinity. His 1st House ruler is Venus (General Signification of Romance, Woman) who also carries the Shen Sha 咸池 (Romance, Lust). Venus is in its prime in Autumn and being also his Useful Planet, awaits him in his late teens to mid 20s. 

From late 20s to 40, Luo Hou 罗喉 (South Node, astronomical point, part of the two Lunar Nodes where the Moon's orbital path crosses the ecliptic) who is the Secondary Ruler of the 7th House, again awaits him. Numerous temptations in his path. His scandal involving 4 female disciples happened in Hongkong 1999.

What Li Guang Pu wants to highlight in this particular case is that, a religious leader nevertheless is still a human being, and not without secular feelings. And sometimes, like in this case, one fails to overcome secular temptations.