Leo

• A fixed sign of the King or President
• A fixed fiery sign. Proud, generous, trusting, energetic, domineering, and authoritative.
• Ruling Planet: Sun
• Lucky Day: Sunday
• Gems: Ruby, Diamond
• Lucky Numbers: 8 & 9
• Color: Orange & Gold
• Flowers: Sunflower & Marigold
• Metal: Gold
• Birthstone: Ruby
• Harmonious signs for business, marriage, or companionship: Sagittarius & Aries

LEO is the middle sign of the maternal trinity, the second of the fiery triplicity, and the second of the fixed signs; therefore it may be said to hold the central point in the zodiac, and when joined with the next sign it certainly contains the essence of the whole twelve signs. Leo governs the heart, therefore it will be from this centre that the character of those born in this sign must be judged.

Standing, as this sign does, in the centre, we shall find the forces of the heart running either upward or downward; but only in those who are fully individualized, or, as it is termed, -self-conscious, shall we find the consciousness centered in the heart. Generally speaking, the emotions are fully active in the Leo characters. They are forceful and highly magnetic, and, possessing an abundance of vitality, they carry with them an aura that is beneficial to all.

They are genuinely kind, warm-hearted and loving, but usually like to express their love in action, their emotional nature being of the heart. They can be impulsive and diffusive, but it is usually the impulse of a generous nature. They possess a very attractive individuality and are always decided characters. They are usually very practical with regard to their ideals, as they prefer to live them rather than talk of them. While the Aries nature usually spins wonderful ideals in thought and ever seems to be straining after the unattainable, the Leo types are silently and quietly seeking to make them realities. This comes from the wonderful faith which they inherently possess, their motto being "Whatever is, is best"; this comes, however, only when the Leo nature is awakened and the desire has been sent out to unify the individual will with the Supreme Will. Being the centre of the fiery triplicity they possess a very strong love nature, which makes them very ardent and sincere in their affections. As the second of the fixed signs, and in contrast with the Taureans, they have more unity of will and desire, acting more on the side of will than that of desire. The Leos love to rule, but it is a rule rather of the heart than of the head. They are philanthropic, and always obey the impulses of the heart where sympathy is concerned. This sign produces individuals who are more thorough than any of the other signs, for they seem to combine the practical with the philosophical and the ideal with the real. When self-controlled they are wonderful individuals, being able to influence great numbers. They have the power to send their thoughts to any distance, and when conserving their energies, heal through sympathy. They seem to radiate from their centre a beautiful warmth, like the Sun, which is ruler of their sign. But when turning their forces downward and living to the personal side of life they are very amative, with very strong passions. It is found that the weakest and the strongest individuals come out of this sign. The weakest are those who are too easily led through their feelings, though this is often caused by associating with those who take advantage of their Leo nature; they then fall into dissipation and may become dissolute characters. But the true spiritual fire is ever burning within, and phoenix-like they will rise from the dead ashes of themselves to greater and nobler things; for this sign is known by astrologers as the house of the Sun, and it is through this sign that the rays of the Sun become most powerfully charged with spiritual life and energy. When Leo persons seek to become self-conscious they seem to make more rapid progress than those born under other signs, and possessing as they do such very sensitive natures, they are able to readily respond to spiritual influences; their faith then becomes marvelous, and the whole of their life seems to be devoted to doing good to others.

Leo governing the heart causes this part of the system to be the centre and most easily affected when the character is inharmonious and the life running to discord and disorder instead of peace and progress; the circulation then suffers, setting up many troubles of a more or less feverish nature, which in turn react upon the mind, bringing gloom and despondency. It is essential for the well-being and perfect health of all Leo persons that they have a certain time, if only a few minutes each day, when they can be quite alone and perfectly at rest. This enables them to 'start the machinery from the heart' at an even and harmonious rate of vibration. Their best medicine is love, peace and harmony.

All Leo persons succeed best where they have authority, or hold some high and responsible position, but in trades or professions they will do best as jewelers or goldsmiths, as writers of love stories or dramatic sketches. They also make excellent musicians and poets. Although they possess great strength and vitality they are not fond of laborious work, and they can only be really happy in positions of trust and management.

We may sum up the Leo persons as firm and self-controlling individuals, ever aiming at high and noble things. They are all born with a nobility of character which can only be counteracted by contradictory planetary influences.

They are generous to a fault, faithful, sincere, earnest and persevering, and although ambitious their ambition is nearly always turned in the direction of self-perfection. This sign gives the intuitions of the heart, and as the centre of the maternal trinity, it holds and binds all the others by the power of love; its inner nature or destiny is HARMONY.

The Evolved Leo

It is said that no one can stand before the Apollo Belvedere without instinctively straightening his shoulders and drawing himself up to his full stature. The fully developed Leonian has something of the same effect upon his fellow men. His faith and trust in humanity, his serene conviction that those who are forking for him will do their best, and that even those who fail him will be better in the future, all combine to awaken a generous response in the hearts of others. He gives to those around him fresh courage, and sets them striving to fulfill his expectations.

He is the ideal head of any large enterprise, institution, or undertaking. Many-sided himself, he understands and appreciates the qualities of all the other types, and never wastes his energy by asking from anyone what it is not in his or her power to give. Therefore he is particularly successful in organizing activities and distributing duties, giving to the specialists facilities and opportunities for exercising their various faculties. Commands, to be effective, must be easily understood, and therefore his style is simple and straightforward. Approval is definite and unmistakable, and displeasure is intimated without hesitation or circumlocution.

He holds the past in reverence, as the parent of the present, and looks forward to the future as its child. He encourages both science and art by his personal interest and patronage, and takes measures for the well-being of the sick and poverty-stricken. He practices self-denial and shows constant consideration for others by his punctuality, method, and forethought; and though his own life is simple he can show regal hospitality, shining as host, and delighting to give of his best to the guest and stranger. It is characteristic of the Leonian type of hospitality that it is always the welcome that really crowns the feast nor the splendor of the entertainment. In fact, both may leave something to be desired, especially in humble homes, for the mastery of detail is difficult for this type; but the harmony of the gathering will be undisturbed and each guest will be made to feel that he has in some way contributed to the general enjoyment.

Love and Friendship

The emotions of this type tend to be over-generous and too widespread, and the characteristic faith in human nature frequently results in misplaced affections and unwise friendships. Heartaches, broken engagements, and unhappy marriages are frequent; but on the other hand the inborn magnanimity and power of forgiveness are such that in many cases the sufferer can adjust himself or herself to apparently impossible conditions, avert a tragedy, and bring success out of failure by a sheer act of faith.

Religion

The type of religious expression natural to the Leonian is the hymn of praise. The temples of Apollo were specially designed for ceremonial - "all beautiful, without and within"; and the worshipers who met to do him honor in ancient Greece and Rome passed in triumph through his courts and out along the highways, crowned with garlands and chanting his praises. The psalms of David, in the original, probably form the most perfect examples of Leonian style in existence, and even in translation have served as models to many of our greatest writers. Among their special characteristics we may note the constant recurrence of the words "majesty" and "glory," and their marvelous clearness and lucidity - a clearness attained partly by simplicity of phrasing and partly by careful repetition of important passages.

Curiously enough, moods of deep despondency are characteristic of many Leonians. The forethoughtful outlook naturally suggests forebodings; and the lack of ability to deal with difficulties in detail leads, at times, to a state of dejection that seems at first sight to be incompatible with the normal bearing of the sign. This condition is generally associated with inefficient heart action, but it is also due partly to an entire absence of resentment, rancor, and bitterness. These feelings are vicious and objectionable in themselves, but they are active; and by encouraging a fight, they keep their victims from being crushed by sorrow, as the Leonian is too apt to be. He simply waits with resignation till faith, which never altogether fails him, can gather strength enough to lift him out of his despondency.

The Unevolved Leo

Primitive Leonians are generally afflicted with an unquenchable thirst for personal glory, and ambition for positions of responsibility and authority, which they are incapable of filling with success. Many, especially those of the commanding or masculine type, contrive to give themselves the illusion of kingship by assuming airs of self-importance and lording it over their inferiors and juniors. The gentler or more feminine type seeks, above all things, a comfortable throne - a well-cushioned one, at that - and asserts her queenship by betraying a marvelous skill in delegating disagreeable duties, a total incapacity for serving either herself or anyone else, together with a wondrous power of swallowing flattery. The lion seen through a diminishing glass is very much like the domestic cat - an animal attached to its home and, as far as in it lies, to those who are willing to stroke it the right way; but it is never much inclined to put itself out for anybody.

A talent for reputing work is first cousin to the habit of shirking it; and the state of muddle found in some Leonian kingdoms is due to the fact that the monarch has claimed the throne too soon, and is inclined either to fidget in it or to snooze. At this early stage the tolerant attitude is apt to suggest that nothing matters very much; and the comprehensive intellect tries to cover so large a field of activity that it loses the ability to estimate relative values, and for lack of a clear focus cannot distinguish mountains from molehills.

The vice of kings is favoritism; Leonians are apt to select those who can make themselves useful, or who flatter them by showing a certain amount of dependence on their favor. Their love affairs develop along the same lines, and are apt to be numerous and unfortunate. They very often marry beneath them - possible from a desire to make sure of at least one "subject" - and not infrequently find that their judgment has been at fault, and that the submissive and devoted fiancée shows a tendency, after marriage, to usurp the throne.

Physical Characteristics

This sign is most easily recognized by its commanding presence, stateliness of bearing, and deliberation in speech and movement. It is not easy to pass over a Leonian in a crowd, and even when he is small he generally makes his presence felt. The body is symmetrical, the limbs well proportioned, the step firm yet light, the stride longer than average. Many of them excel in dancing. The features are marked, and in some case rather heavy - either "Roman" or somewhat feline in type - and generally show decided character. Astrological tradition declares that Italy, especially its capital, and also a large part of France are much under the influence of Leo; and certainly the dignity of the typical Roman, and the importance of this native city as an organizing center, accord well with such a theory. The feminine edition of the Leonian has less solidity of build and more grace, and even when short in stature she can play the queen in society and reign over her own circle in fitting style.

In Fiction

A couple of quaint caricatures of this type are to be found in Through the Looking-Glass, where, in the Red and White Queens, Lewis Carroll has given excellent sketches of the fussy Leonian and her more helpless sister. The Red Queen is a stickler for etiquette and always knows exactly what other people ought to do; is always ready with advice, order, and reprimand, disdains circumlocution, and is inclined to flat contradiction in conservation. The White Queen is gentle and helpless, is afflicted with dark forebodings - as when she is about to prick her finger - and is so absolutely without resource that she can only bewail her fate and await it, while after the accident she depends entirely upon Alice to adjust her shawl and fasten her brooch.

Literary Style

Alexandre Dumas pčre was born with both the Sun and rising sign in Leo, so is doubly Leonian, and shows the influence strongly, both in his choice of a field for his literary activity and in his method of treatment. Like Sir Walter Scott - also born with the Sun in Leo - he was extraordinarily prolific in the production of historical romances of considerable length, dealing largely with the fortunes of royal and princely personages, or with questions of chivalry, of honor and of glory. Both told their tales in a straightforward style, and both neglected the useful art of pruning.

Health

In the matter of health Leo rarely does things by halves, and is generally either exceptionally strong - radiating vitality around him- or always on the sick list. The dangers to health are discordant and inharmonious surroundings, and the sorrow that springs from misplaced or unrequited affection, wounded vanity or lack of praise.

SUN IN LEO

The Sun in Leo gives a good moral nature. It makes the individuality sincere and ardent in all matters of affection; firm, self-reliant, magnanimous, sometimes austere, and determined. Many experiences will be in connection with love affairs.

Sun in Leo and Moon in Aries

There is a love of philosophy, and a tendency towards religious thought. Determination and love of leadership are marked. The combination gives a persistent, dominant, enthusiastic, and energetic nature, along with combativeness, but there is a necessity for restraint where feeling is concerned. It gives success in life, for the native is independent and can make his own way. He is self-reliant, firm, positive, yet generous and good-humored. He will form his own opinions and not be led by others.

Sun in Leo and Moon in Taurus

This combination gives a determined nature with an inclination to put hear into physical things. It strengthens business intuitions, making the native of a good banker or stockbroker. The character is strong, firm, at times obstinate. The native is likely to be popular and to become a public figure. He is sociable, companionable, good natured, agreeable and is fond of pleasure, sensation, and emotion.

Sun in Leo and Moon in Gemini

This gives energy to the personal nature, with much determination behind it. It inclines the native toward music, drama, and the arts, and gives him ability for writing and poetry. The hands are ever ready to express her heart. The combination makes gifted, enthusiastic, and lovable people whose abilities may amount to genius. The mind is broad, comprehensive, and fertile. There is a good family influence in early life, and many acquaintances and friends.

Sun in Leo and Moon in Cancer

This causes great sensitiveness, and often sorrow in love affairs, and gives a tendency to go to extremes. It is a good combination for the mind, the brain being receptive to influences from the heart. It stimulates the emotions and makes the feelings keen and sensitive. The sexual nature is strong. The native is sociable, affectionate, loving companionship and the family circle. He is fond of children, of pleasure and sensation, and of living in fine surroundings. The combination gives financial success, especially when associated with other members of the family.

Sun in Leo and Moon in Leo

This combination gives an independent nature. Those born under it are often rather self-centered and proud, yet can be kind-hearted and generous. They are capable of holding their own under great difficulties, but are apt to take extreme measures. There is often reserve, yet a strong desire for affection, and usually some fondness for show in position of appearance. The combination gives much intuition, vitality, energy, and resourcefulness. The native has plenty of friends, by whom he may benefit. He is a person of some note in his sphere, will rise in life, or will make the acquaintance of those in superior positions.

Sun in Leo and Moon in Virgo

The Moon is in the first sign from the Sun. This gives resourcefulness and good business instincts. The native has high ideals, yet has a tendency to be critical, restless and anxious. There is ability for music, literature, or any subject where the ideal and practical are blended. It is a combination that achieves success, yet is sometimes lacking in enterprise. These people may succeed better through others than when working on their own account. They are apt to think their work somewhat beneath them, and that they are fitted for better positions than they occupy. At best they are good practical workers, can accomplish much, and they fraternize readily with others.

Sun in Leo and Moon in Libra

This harmonious and successful polarity strengthens the affections, gives compassion and a desire to do public good. There is a love of poetry, music, and art, and the native may have considerable ability in one of the these. His mind is strong and active, he associates readily with other people, in friendly, companionable and dislikes loneliness.

Sun in Leo and Moon in Scorpio

This combination gives some austerity, there is an inclination to be rather hard, proud, and arrogant, with much love to show. Persons born under this influences often have their internal Leo nature quite hidden under this hard exterior. The native is much attracted by the senses which may take a high or low form, passional, emotional, or mental, according to the general condition of the horoscope. In love affairs he often goes to excess. He has an ardent, fixed nature, and inclines to be worldly.

Sun in Leo and Moon in Sagittarius

The Moon is in the fifth sign from the Sun, and therefore in perfect harmony with it. It produces restlessness, yet this is a hopeful and successful combination. The native has a benevolent and good-hearted disposition, but sometimes lacks caution and self-restraint. He has active sympathies, intuitive foresight, and is good at philanthropic work and sports. There is much hope and joy in the nature, and a great love of pleasure.

Sun in Leo and Moon in Capricorn

This combination tends to harden the inner nature. The personality is inclined to be rather selfish and worldly, but the heart is always pulling away from externals. This combination gives a love of power and leadership, and ability to organize and govern, and is good for either a business or political career. The ambitions are keen and determined, and the native is likely to occupy a prominent or responsible position in his sphere. Generally speaking, it is good for length of life and for money or property.

Sun in Leo and Moon in Aquarius

This combination, equivalent to the Moon's being in opposition to the Sun, gives intuition and ability to judge human nature quickly, together with some very marked occult tendencies, refinement, much determination and will-power. The native is independent, good-natured, sociable, but with some exterior reserve.

Sun in Leo and Moon in Pisces

In this combination there is often discontent and dissatisfaction. The native is inclined to be dreamy and passive. Nevertheless, with a good horoscope, he will be kind and generous, and will benefit from these qualities in others.

FAMOUS PEOPLE BORN WITH THE SUN IN LEO

• Napoleon: August 15, 1769
• Sir Walter Scott: August 15, 1771
• Alexandre Dumas: July 24, 1802
• George Bernard Shaw: July 26, 1856
• Henry Ford: July 30, 1863
• Orville Wright: August 19, 1871
• Herbert Hoover: August 10, 1874
• C. G. Jung: July 26, 1875
• T. E. Lawrence: August 15, 1888
• Mae West: August 17, 1892
• Dorothy Parker: August 22, 1893
• Aldous Huxley: July 26, 1894
• Henry Moore: July 30, 1898
• Alfred Hitchcock: August 13, 1899
• Ogden Nash: August 19, 1902
• Dag Hammarskjöld: July 29, 1905
• Julia Child: August 15, 1912
• Fidel Castro: August 13, 1927
• Jacqueline Kennedy: July 28, 1929
• Princess Margaret: August 21, 1930
• Princess Anne: August 15, 1950