In the field of astrology, there are particular degrees in a natal chart that are significant in understanding how the energy of certain works. The critical degrees mark points where energy is amplified for a specific effect or purpose. A thorough review of the natal chart can provide details on whether there are critical degrees as part of the natal makeup and how these energies can be used for maximum effect.
The critical degrees in astrology mark points where the energy is highlighted for action and/or consideration. These points are found at the beginning, middle, final degree points, and they represent different ways that energy is used to produce certain effects that will progress the holder of this energy. It is important to note that there are critical degrees related to each of the zodiac signs. They are as follows:
Cardinal signs of Aries, Cancer, Libra, and Capricorn: Degrees of 0, 13, 26
Fixed signs of Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, and Aquarius: Degrees of 8-9 and 21-22
Mutable signs of Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, and Pisces: Degrees of 4 and 17
The cardinal critical degrees represent the opportunity to take action.
The fixed critical degrees represent the opportunity to solidify circumstances.
The mutable critical degrees represent the opportunity to make important adjustments.
It is beneficial to look carefully at the astrological chart for these critical degrees in these signs in order to make the most use of these planetary placements.
The Zero & First Degrees
The zero and one degree points are especially important when paired with cardinal placements because it represents the opportunity to start anew. This is fresh, new energy that beckons the individual to take their experience by the reins and move forward. To determine where and how the zero and first-degree energy applies, it is important to look at the sign and house placement of the applicable planet. This degree point also represents the applicable sign at its very base or purest nature.
For example, with Venus in Aries at zero degrees, natally, in this life there is a fearless approach to starting anew in relation to love and romance.
The Middle Degrees
The middle degrees of 14-16 are important as they represent that the chart holder is immersed in experiencing the energy of that particular sign. The energy at the midpoint is focused on developing the characteristics and traits of the sign as well as meeting any challenges and obstacles that are associated with the applicable sign placement. When the middle critical degree points are combined with cardinal signs of change (Aries, Cancer, Libra, and Capricorn), there is an element of being fully immersed in a crisis where it is necessary to move forward and address changes head-on.
The 29th Degree
The 29-degree mark, known as the anaretic degree, is exceptionally important as it marks finality and endings. In some cases, 29 degrees is believed to be a fated degree where an uncontrollable ending is inevitable, and wherever this point occurs in the astrology chart that is a need for closure. Given that the 29-degree point is at the very end of any applicable sign, there is also an understanding that the individual has learned and mastered much about that sign placement. It is time to wrap up the energy of that particular sign. Because of the finality of the 29-degree point, there are often challenges associated with the applicable sign placement oftentimes as a test in the process of wrapping up and mastering the particular sign. Ideally, the chart holder in achieving and mastering this critical degree point is then able to move on to the next energy in the next incarnation.
It is important to note that the 29-degree point in the fixed signs of Aquarius, Taurus, Leo, and Scorpio are especially important as they represent a finality that is usually permanent given the fixed nature of the applicable signs.
Take a moment to look at your natal chart to see if any of these critical degree points apply to your natal energy. The study of critical degrees offers an additional understanding of how you can consciously maximize the energy in an astrological chart.
