Because Aries is the first sign of the zodiac it rules the first awakening by the individual into consciousness out of the ocean of the unconscious (Pisces) - Thus their need to be always starting something new and to be a pioneer. They are good at making snap decisions. Call them up if you need to make a decision and they will make it for you immediately. They are also very active; they get things done, which makes the rest of us sitting around in our pajamas amidst our clutter look like slugs.
They are always looking for new possibilities and as soon as the situation has settled down into something familiar they are off and running to discover and explore new territory. Aries has been accused of being egotistic and showing little interest in the thoughts and feelings of others. This is because the inner compulsion toward self-determination is so strong. They want to be first in everything and are highly competitive so they charge right in and wipe out the opposition.
Aries is ruled by Mars, the warrior and Aries needs to have a battle, even if there is no threat. Aries can find out who they are from their anger--what is it they want to fight. Vigorous exercise is a must for Aries in order to channel the Mars energy.
Some women find Aries men very sexy as they are attracted to their physical energy. After all, Aries is the ultimate masculine sign. They are usually athletes or explorers. In Victorian times, they would call Aries men “dashing” or “real sword bucklers”. Sadly, in our modern age, there are very few swords left to buckle which leaves the Aries man sitting on the couch furiously pounding away on the remote.
Aries women may be afraid to express their assertive side because it may be unacceptable to others. Because of this frustration, they can snap at you when you least expect it. They do best if they have a job -- a real busy job -- preferably working alone.
Do you drive too fast with the radio blaring? Do you like to lead and won’t follow anyone or anything? Look for the Mars/Aries archetype in your chart. If you have planets in Aries, the house they are in and the planets involved can tell you where you will lead rather than follow and where you will show your individuality.
You have this archetype if you have Aries Rising or Personal Planets (Sun, Moon, Mercury, Venus or Mars) in Aries or Mars in a challenging aspect (Conjunction, Square Opposition) to the personal planets.
Myth: Athena
One of the myths for Aries is Athena, the warrior, born from the head of her father. When a prophecy was made to Zeus that a child born from his union with Metis would one day supplant him, he quickly swallowed Metis and the unborn child. One day he had a raging headache and he asked Hephaestus (Virgo) to split open his head. Out popped Athena, fully grown, dressed in armor, helmet, and sword. Athena rules wisdom and battles.
In the myths of Jason (see below) and Athena, there are negative father images. The father has a wound of some sort. It seems one of the goals of the Aries is to overthrow the father, not turn their back on him, but to find the fragile human underneath the mask as Skywalker did to Darth Vader.
Aries:
Fire Element: Intuitive, creative experiences
Cardinal Mode: Outgoing, radiant and dynamic energy
Hero Type: Impulsive hero, extroverted style
Archetypes: The Warrior, The Pioneer, and The Leader
Aries Moon: Inner need to Lead
Aries Sun: Goal is Courage
Aries Ascendant: Surrounded by Sports, Action
Myth: Jason and the Argonauts
When Jason came of age to become king (a symbol of individuation), he returned to his father’s kingdom to reclaim the throne. The usurper Pelias agreed to yield it if Jason brought him the Golden Fleece from King Colchis, which was guarded by a dragon. Pelias knew that what he asked from Jason was hazardous and foolhardy. He was certain Jason would never return, but Jason accepted the challenge. All the Greek heroes joined Jason on a ship called the Argo. When they reached the clashing rocks, Jason wanted to sail right through, but the elder Phineas advised him to send a dove through first. If the bird passed, chances were the Argo would, too. Jason took his advice and steered the ship past the rocks. His next challenge was getting past three bulls, a dragon and a serpent that guarded the fleece. Medea, King Colchis’ daughter, befriended him and saved him from certain death by providing him with charms and potions. Jason obtained the Golden Fleece, and escaped from the land, bringing Medea with him while her father pursued them. On the return to Greece, they married, but after a while, Jason grew weary of Medea and abandoned her for another woman. Out of spite, Medea murdered Jason and their two children. I equate Medea with Scorpio. In my client’s lives, I often see Scorpio and Aries match up. They are worthy opponents to each other.
Aries Traits: Aries individuals have a strong need to develop a separate identity and to take on risky challenges. They can be naïve and can have a great deal of faith and vision. They often have natural leadership ability and can accomplish difficult tasks. Aries persons can be rash and hotheaded and need advice from more levelheaded types. They are at times not grateful for the help of others. They grow by facing their fears. It’s important for Aries to get in touch with feminine energy.
Primary Goal: Leadership
Challenge: Whom shall I lead?
Stay well,
Janet Kane
www.mythiczodiac.com