The opposition occurs when two planets are 180° apart (six signs apart). It is considered a hard aspect, joining planets of complementary but opposing natures — Aries with Libra, Taurus with Scorpio, Gemini with Sagittarius, etc. The opposition represents polarization, tension, and the need for balance. It is the aspect of relationship.
The opposition is traditionally considered a malefic aspect, but it has a particular value: it brings awareness. Unlike the square, which often manifests as internal tension that is projected outward, the opposition often manifests in relationships — the qualities of the opposing planet are seen in other people, forcing the native to confront them. This can be difficult, but it can also be enormously growth-promoting.
When interpreting an opposition, consider:
- The planets involved — what energies are polarized against each other?
- The signs involved — each opposition has a particular theme: Aries-Libra is self vs. other, Taurus-Scorpio is security vs. intensity, Gemini-Sagittarius is detail vs. big picture, etc.
- The houses involved — in which areas of life does the polarization express itself?
- The potential for projection — is the native owning both sides of the opposition, or seeing one side only in others?