The sun in astrology

The Sun is referred to as the star at the center of our solar system. It is a sphere, around which the
Earth rotates in an elliptical orbit. Therefore, the distance between the Earth and the Sun is not
always the same. The mass of the Sun amounts to about 339,000 times that of the Earth and is more
than 700 times the size of our planets combined. Its diameter counts 863,730 miles (1,390,000 kms).
For an earthly observer, the Sun, rising in the east and setting in the west, seems to follow a uniform
course. However, this subjective observation is incorrect. In fact, the course of the Sun moves across
the equator to a northern and a southern extremity, thereby creating the seasons in the non-tropical
areas on Earth. After the northerly spring-time equinox, the Sun shifts north from the equator and
appears higher in the sky.

On June 21st the Sun reaches the highest point of the year. Thus, north of the equator, we
experience the longest day and the shortest night; the course which the Sun describes on this day is
named the tropic of Cancer. From there, the path of the Sun is headed back towards the equator and
past the autumn-equinox, where it moves for two quarters below our horizon. The days become
shorter until December 22nd--the shortest day of the year. Then the Sun, after bordering the Tropic
of Capricorn on December 22nd, heads north again.

Its influence on our planet differs according to the season. We see this in various natural
manifestations, i.e., spring--blossoms; Summer--green of the plants and yellow of the corn; Autumn--
the colorful leaves; Winter--bare branches.

Mythology depicts Helios as the sun-god. There are also accounts of Apollo as the god of storm, fire,
and light--the divine son of the Sun and therewith the provider of life. Apollo is the bearer of the
healing force, and he also brings illumination--with his rays he kills the dark creatures of the
underworld. Dionysos represents the dark side of this light-god, the night side of our being.

The Sun is considered male, warm, and dry. It symbolizes the ego, the core of life, vitality (especially
the heart), the concept of self-confidence as well as charismatic powers. Those whose Sun is
harmoniously placed will be well received and do not need to make much with words. Their
appearance speaks for them. Something else is emitted when a sunny person enters a room.

The Sun also represents our basic vitality and our potential for physical malfunction, inherited in
every person. The relationship between father and son or daughter can be depicted by the relative
placement of the Sun. The summit of life is symbolized by the Sun as well as the success which one
aims to achieve. The Sun finds its related power in the zodiac sign of Leo, the lion.