Aspects in Astrology
Grand Square
The Grand Square (also known as the Grand Cross) is an aspect in Astrology and it involves at least four planets, two oppositions and four squares. The first and third planets will be in opposition (180 degrees) to one another, the second and fourth planets will be in opposition to each other, while the first planet squares (90 degrees) the second planet and the second plant squares the third plant and the third plant squares the fourth planet and the fourth squares the first planet involved.
A strong Grand Square will have all of the four planets in the same mode (cardinal, fixed or mutable). If one or more of the planets do not fit into this criteria then it is considered a weak Grand Square. The closer the squares and oppositions are by degree to one another, the stronger the energies of the Grand Square.
The Grand Square is considered a challenging aspect because of the general nature of these aspects. They often produce stress and inner tension or offer a challenge that will require inner strength and determination in order to advance through the lessons. This aspect can either become the stagnation in the lives of those under its influence or the motivating factor that has the potential of producing great strides forward.
When this natal aspect becomes activated through transit or progression, the individuals with this aspect in their natal chart will feel as though they are being pulled in four directions indicated by the planets involved and the houses that the planets are found in. They may feel over-burdened and paralyzed by life’s conditions. There is usually a planet that forms a tight trine or sextile within the Grand Square and the energies and house placement of this trine or sextile will often help unlock the potentials found within the framework of this larger configuration. This contained energy resulting from the aspect needs to find a release and this trine or sextile is often where the energies are released which, if used properly, can produce great results.
These individuals often need to turn inward and find their own strength. Many with this aspect feel as though they cannot rely on others to help them through life’s difficulties and therefore become stronger over time and very self-reliant. This is not to say that reaching out would be a bad idea or that no one can assist them in their time of crisis, however, many with this aspect become reliant on themselves and motivate themselves forward conquering these energies which in turn builds inner strength. Most people with challenging aspects find ways to use the energies in a positive manner, and they are often the ones that push ahead in life and make something out of themselves as they become experienced in dealing with these energies.
If they can find a goal or spiritual purpose behind the difficulties at hand, they can make their way over the hurdles and rise above any difficulty that comes their way. The key is to know that they are not trapped and that there is always a way out. It is imperative that they not beat their heads again the proverbial wall. Again, they must realize that they are never trapped.
There are many valuable lessons learned from challenging aspects found within the framework of the Natal Astrology chart. We need to address each challenge head on, one step at a time.
