Planetary Enclosure in Astrology

Introduction

Planetary enclosure in astrology is a concept used to analyze subtle nuances in a natal chart. It involves studying the planets surrounding a given planet in the sequence of the zodiac signs.

This enclosure can provide additional insight into how a planet operates in a natal chart.

It is only of interest for personally enclosed planets (the Sun, the Moon, Mercury, Venus, and Mars). Collectively enclosed planets (Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto) do not allow for individual interpretation.

The enclosure mainly focuses on the relative positions of the planets in a natal chart. However, it is also possible, as an additional nuance, to take into account the four angles of the chart: the Ascendant, the Midheaven, the Descendant, and the Imum Coeli.

For example, if the Ascendant is enclosed by Mars on one side and Venus on the other, this indicates a particular dynamic in the way an individual presents themselves to the world (Ascendant), with a combination of Martian qualities (action, energy) and Venusian qualities (harmony, relationships).

The enclosure of an angle by two planets can also offer insight into the challenges and opportunities that arise, for example in family matters for the Imum Coeli, personality for the Ascendant, relationships with others for the Descendant, and destiny for the Midheaven.

Definition and Importance of Planetary Enclosure

Planetary enclosure occurs when two specific planets are situated on either side of a third planet in the sequence of the zodiac signs. For example, if the Moon is enclosed by Mars on one side and Venus on the other, this influences the expression of the Moon in the astrological chart.

Planetary enclosure is interesting in certain cases, as it can modify or nuance the expression of the central planet. The enclosing planets can add their characteristics, challenges, and talents to the central planet, thereby influencing how it expresses itself.

Examples of Planetary Enclosure Interpretation

Here are some examples of planetary enclosures involving trios of planets, with a brief interpretation for each.

Mars between Venus and Mercury

The planet Mars, representing energy and assertiveness, is influenced by Venus (harmony, relationships) on one side and Mercury (communication, intelligence) on the other.

This can be interpreted as a person who acts (Mars) in a thoughtful and communicative manner (Mercury), while seeking harmony and balance in their relationships (Venus).

The Sun between Saturn and Jupiter

The Sun, symbolizing the self and ego, is enclosed by Saturn (structure, discipline) and Jupiter (expansion, optimism).

This configuration can show an individual whose self-expression (Sun) is well balanced between the caution and structure of Saturn, and the optimism and expansion of Jupiter.

The Moon between Uranus and Neptune

The Moon, reflecting emotions and inner needs, is enclosed by Uranus (change, innovation) and Neptune (dreams, intuition).

This combination indicates a person whose emotional life (Moon) is strongly influenced by innovation and the need for freedom (Uranus), while being highly intuitive and connected to a more subtle world (Neptune).

Points to Consider for Planetary Enclosure

Planetary enclosure should not be taken in isolation but rather viewed in the overall context of the astrological chart.

The aspects formed by the enclosing planets to other parts of the chart can also influence their impact.

The signs in which the enclosing planets are located can be important for fully understanding their influence.

Is There an Orb Criterion for Planetary Enclosure?

For planetary enclosures, the rules are different and less strict than for traditional aspects such as conjunctions, oppositions, squares, or trines.

In fact, with planetary enclosure, the important factor is to see which are the two closest planets on either side of a given planet, without necessarily having a specific orb to respect.

This means there is no fixed maximum distance to define an enclosure. However, it is generally preferable that the enclosing planets are in the adjacent signs to the central planet for the enclosure to be considered significant.

To illustrate this, if we have, for example, the Moon in Gemini and the closest planets are Mars in Cancer and Venus in Taurus, we would say that the Moon is enclosed by Mars and Venus. Here, it is not necessary to measure the exact orb between the Moon and these planets, as long as they are the closest neighbors, but especially in the sequence of the zodiac signs.

In summary, when evaluating enclosures, the emphasis is more on the sequence and relative proximity of the planets in the zodiac signs, rather than specific orbs or maximum distances.

Conclusion

Planetary enclosure in astrology offers an additional subtle layer of understanding in the interpretation of a natal chart. It reveals how the combined influences of two planets can modify or enrich the expression of a third, particularly when it is a personal planet.

As with all astrological tools, it is essential to consider enclosures in the broader context of the chart for a complete and balanced interpretation.