Taurus

When any planet is in Taurus, or Taurus is on the cusp of any House, the matters covered by the planet or House will be affected by Taurean characteristics.

An earth sign ruled by Venus, Taurus is concerned with the good things of the world, the realm of the senses. A strong Taurean influence in the natal chart is likely to produce a strong, stubborn, sensual individual with an appreciation for good food and drink, beautiful (though sometimes quirky) surroundings, unconditional devotion to loved ones, affection for music (possibly musical ability), and something of a green thumb. Incredibly common among those with the Taurus influence is an affinity for animals, especially horses (more commonly associated with the Sign of Sagittarius).

With the key phrase I HAVE and rulership of the Second House of Possessions, it's not surprising that a strong Taurus influence usually equates to a strong desire to accumulate material possessions. This desire is sometimes disparaged as "materialism," however I don't believe that term to be accurate. Rather than accumulating things qua things -- possession for its own sake, greed or miserliness -- the Taurean individual is driven to acquire by two powerful forces: love and fear. The love aspect comes into play through Venereal (it means "of Venus") earthiness, the search for grace and harmony, the desire to see, hear, smell, and taste only what is pleasing, to be surrounded by the things of the senses. The fear aspect is something the Taurus-influenced individual will be reluctant to admit, and indeed, such people are generally courageous ... but these individuals are often secretly frightened by the prospect of financial insecurity, of loss, of dependence, and will seek out money, property, and prestige in order to keep the hypothetical wolf from the very real door. Money equals freedom to the Taurus-ruled. Sometimes money also equals love to these folks, and they're likely to truly enjoy giving gifts and presents to their loved ones.

The Taurean will likely have some very fine qualities, along with perhaps a tendency for "too much of a good thing:" Taurus is fiercely loyal, and this is admirable; however, the possibility of blind loyalty to a person, place, or ideal which is undeserving of such loyalty definitely exists, and should be watched for. Taurus is patient, also a wonderful thing, unless that patience translates into an attitude of waiting for things to happen, rather than being involved with their happening. Taurus is eminently practical ... but needs to be aware that not all dreams and ideals are gooey-eyed and unimportant. Taurus is warm and compassionate toward others, but may need to avoid the instinct to become overly involved with the concerns and problems of others, at the expense of his or her own life. Good side: Taurus is willing to stand up for his or her beliefs. Down side: Taurus may become so convinced that s/he is right (dammit!) that s/he clings stubbornly to those beliefs without attempting to see the bigger picture.

If the tendency toward extremes is noted and tackled, the Taurus-influenced individual can be a true jewel of the Zodiac: dependable, reliable, hardworking, the best of friends and the strongest of allies, with an eye for quality and the determination necessary to achieve it in all aspects of their lives.

When it comes to romance, Taurus will appreciate the small, graceful touches. When it comes to pure animal passion, the Bull certainly won't stint! This individual truly enjoys sex, especially when all the sensual aspects are included. Taurus will probably maintain his or her libido and interest in earthy, physical love well into old age, and be happy to give as good as he or she gets. If fun and freedom rule the relationship, you can be sure both qualities will be there in abundance. Should the relationship become more serious, there's little danger of fickleness -- the Bull's heart may be covered in red satin, but there's a thick core of steel underneath. When it comes to kids, Taurus may be a bit lax when it comes to ooey-gooiness, but would literally give up his/her own life to prevent harm coming to the children. Whatever the nature of the relationship, you'd be hard-pressed to come up with a more loyal friend, whether the Taurus is a casual pal, committed lover, or a parent. Just don't go playing games with the Taurean's affections: these folks can be more jealous than any Scorpio, and are liable to charge the red cape with an impulsive violence that would put Aries to shame!

For information regarding the physical traits and characteristics of the Taurean native, please see our page on Physical Appearance and Astrology.

Artwork: Paleolithic Bull image; Venus Anadyomene; Nandi (the Vahana of Siva)