What Mercury means in your birth chart

Mercury is a planet linked to communication. Thus, its presence in a person's birth chart reveals the various forms of expression adopted by him/her, such as writing, movements and his/her mental abilities.

According to the astrological view, the planet is a messenger. Its function is to act as a translator of everything that is in the native's head. Therefore, Mercury represents the way someone formulates their thoughts, which is also influenced by the house in which the planet is positioned.

More aspects of Mercury in the birth chart will be commented on throughout the article. To find out more, read on.

Mercury meaning, mythology & symbolism

Mercury is a planet geared towards communicative aspects and determines how a native positions himself in all spheres which depend on this ability. It is a variable planet, geared towards reasoning and intellectual impulses.

He finds his domicile in Gemini and Virgo, the signs he rules, and is considered a messenger of the gods, since in Roman mythology he is considered the god of commerce and travel. It is believed that the planet got its name because of the speed with which it moves.

Over the next section of the article general aspects of Mercury for astrology will be discussed. To know more about it, keep reading.

General information about Mercury in your birth chart

The presence of Mercury in the birth chart serves to determine how people communicate. Therefore, this is conditioned to the house occupied by the planet as well as to the sign present in this house, since Mercury is very adaptable.

The planet focuses on mental aspects and is responsible for commanding the means of expression, from speech to writing. It also commands transportation activities due to the speed with which it moves and is associated with routine, especially the obstacles encountered in daily life.

Mercury and communication

All communicative processes in a person's life are commanded by Mercury. This is the planet of expression and it can appear in different ways for each native. Also, it is worth mentioning that it is not only connected to speech, but to any kind of mental process and, therefore, even the construction of thought depends on Mercury.

So its positioning can make people intellectually arrogant when the planet is in tension, but it can also make them idealistic if the crescent is sharp.

Versatility and inquisitive nature

It is possible to state that Mercury is a planet of many faces. The way it is expressed in the birth chart depends on a series of connections with other factors, ranging from the accentuation in the parts of its symbol to its positioning in the astrological houses.

This is a planet of inquisitive nature and very questioning. This is because Mercury connects the super-conscious, the unconscious and the conscious as human beings relate to each other. It also commands routine and its obstacles.

Mythologies and symbols associated with Mercury

In Roman mythology, Mercury is associated with Hermes, the messenger of the gods and the one responsible for making the connection between matter and spirit. Therefore, all processes linked to the nervous system are the responsibility of this planet, which operates as a link between a person's inner universe and the external world.

The glyph associated with Mercury is formed by a cross, a circle and a crescent, which can determine the native's behavior according to the most accentuated part.

Areas of life ruled by Mercury

Mercury is domiciled in the 3rd and 6th houses of the astrological chart, which correspond, respectively, to Gemini and Virgo, the signs it rules. Thus, the areas of life ruled by the planet are communication, represented by the 3rd house, and routine, represented by the 6th house.

So, besides talking about the ways someone expresses himself, Mercury also determines the relationship of this person with his work, something which is very important for the sign of Virgo. Thus, the planet is responsible for commanding practical attitudes.

Signs of dignity, exaltation detriment and fall

It can be said that Mercury is in exile when it is in Sagittarius and Pisces, signs that are the extreme opposite of its domicile. In addition, the planet is in decline when it is positioned in the sign of Leo, which means that it moves further and further away from its virtues.

In terms of exaltation, it can be said that it happens when Mercury is positioned in Aquarius, sign in which it feels as good as those ruled by it. Finally, the signs of dignity are Gemini and Virgo, in which Mercury exerts its best influence.

Mercury in the Signs

The form of expression of Mercury in the signs varies in intensity and is directly linked to the other configurations present in the person's birth chart, which will contribute to changing their way of thinking and acting.

As this planet is linked to communication, it has a direct effect on the way individuals position themselves in the world and on their capacity for discernment.

More details about the positioning of Mercury in each sign of the zodiac will be explored below. Read on to know more about it.

Mercury in Aries

When Mercury is positioned in Aries, it gives the native the ability to reason quickly. Thus, they become agile and efficient, especially in situations in which they need to communicate. The energy of the sign becomes more positive and optimistic from this position.

However, on the negative side, Mercury encourages competitiveness in Aries and can cause them to provoke their opponents in these situations through comments which can be aggressive. The planet also causes this sign to become more impulsive than usual.

Mercury in Taurus

From the position of Mercury in Taurus, the sign acquires more practical communication skills and knows how to use this ability in a stable way. In addition, the planet guarantees the native greater flexibility and sense of discipline, which makes them great at solving conflicts.

However, the negative side reveals people who have difficulty making a decision because they need a lot of time to form opinions about something. The positioning also enhances the conservatism of the Taurus sign and makes it even more conventional.

Mercury in Gemini

Mercury in Gemini reveals people who are intense, good friends and communicate very well. They have quick thinking when they have to make decisions and can express themselves without too much difficulty, which makes them very adaptable and can get through any situation well.

They are anxious and are often very demanding of others, impatient and quick to change their minds, which can make them appear to be fickle.

Mercury in Cancer

Those with Mercury in Cancer are creative people. They have great memories and a keen sensitivity. They can absorb the information they need very easily and are excellent listeners.

However, these people can become overly sentimental, and this is so intense for them that it even creates imbalance in this area of life. In addition, natives with this position have a tendency to become very dramatic people and show this in all their communication processes.

Mercury in Leo

The position of Mercury in Leo highlights some very striking characteristics of the sign, such as their self-confidence and creativity. It is also beneficial for ensuring more energy to the native and making them increasingly realistic and strong. Another aspect accentuated by Mercury is the loyalty of the Leo.

However, there are some unfavorable things about this placement that need to be looked at closely. As much as it highlights the positive characteristics of Leo, Mercury also accentuates his arrogance and narcissism, and can make the native someone petty.

Mercury in Virgo

The position of Mercury in Virgo is very positive because it can highlight some of the best qualities of this sign. Thus, natives are hard-working, organized and very rational people, who always prize perfectionism and attention to detail in their activities.

On the other hand, they can be even more demanding and have a natural tendency to close themselves off. They also tend to complain a lot and can become arrogant when they believe they know more than others on a particular subject.

Mercury in Libra

Mercury in Libra reveals hard-working and very sympathetic natives. They are people gifted with a great potential for observation and very balanced. They are always willing to offer friendship to others, which happens because of their outgoing and very charismatic side.

However, it is worth mentioning that the positioning also highlights some negative characteristics of Libra. Thus, the sign becomes very indecisive and can get irritated easily, especially if pressured to make a decision. They can also become very demanding due to the presence of Mercury.

Mercury in Scorpio

The presence of Mercury in Scorpio has a positive side which is worth highlighting. It makes the native fearless, energetic, truthful and even more intense. This highlights the natural strength of the sign and also accentuates their sense of independence and their courage, making the native even sexier than usual.

However, Mercury can also highlight some of the more complicated characteristics of the sign, such as their closed and mysterious side. They become even deeper and can get irritated more easily, becoming spiteful and excessively suspicious people.

Mercury in Sagittarius

The position of Mercury in Sagittarius reveals natives who are dreamy, studious and very honest. In addition, the planet also enhances the optimism of the sign, which becomes even more calm and tolerant, being an excellent friend to those around them. Another Sagittarian characteristic that stands out is their love for freedom.

However, you need to be aware of the negative side of the position, which highlights people who are exaggerated and who generally make promises without having plans to keep them. They can be arrogant and act in a prideful way.

Mercury in Capricorn

The presence of Mercury in Capricorn reveals natives who are very responsible and traditional. They are people who value honesty, practicality and efficiency. In addition, the natives become even more ambitious, practical and mature. They strive harder than usual to achieve what they want.

However, they lack emotional balance and a sense of humor. They tend to judge others and complain about everything. They can also be very selfish.

Mercury in Aquarius

The presence of Mercury in the sign of Aquarius shows people who are communicative, committed to social issues and become dreamers precisely because of this characteristic. The kindness of Aquarius is accentuated by the position, as well as their ability to communicate.

It is worth noting that the position also has a negative side which needs attention. Natives can become excessively rebellious and eccentric. In addition, there is a natural tendency to arrogance and individualism in the presence of Mercury in Aquarius.

Mercury in Pisces

Mercury in Pisces reveals very calm natives. They know how to use their intuition well and are people of great wisdom. They are also flexible, dreamy and very passionate, either about others or about life itself. They can spend some time inwardly but in general they can communicate well.

The negative side of this position shows itself through excessive sensitivity. It is also worth mentioning that natives can be very innocent and feel sad easily. In general, they are shy people and depending on the situation can end up playing the victim.

Mercury in the Astrological Houses

The positioning of Mercury in the astrological houses modifies the way the native behaves in various areas of his life. Each house is responsible for ruling a different sector and also for influencing the personality of people in different ways and this happens due to the sign and planet that occupy this space.

It is worth mentioning that Mercury is in domicile in the 3rd and 6th houses, which belong to the signs of Gemini and Virgo, ruled by this planet. Therefore, this is your most comfortable position and in which you can transmit more positive energy.

Next, Mercury's influence in each of the 12 houses will be explored. To learn more about it, continue reading the article.

Mercury in 1st House

The presence of Mercury in the 1st house makes these natives have jovial characteristics and try to assert themselves through speech. They are versatile and interested in many different things, so they see life as a constant learning process.

On the other hand, they have so many interests that they end up abandoning their projects halfway through and find it difficult to complete simple activities, such as reading a book. They are scattered and go in several different directions, which hinders the acquisition of knowledge.

Mercury in the 2nd House

The position of Mercury in the 2nd house reveals natives who can see the value of money and have a sagacity to deal with business. They are good with finances and know how to dialogue in this sense, so they can end up having several ideas for their own ventures.

However, when poorly developed, this positioning shows people who are disorganized and superficial with their finances because of how quickly they change their minds. Therefore, they lack the patience needed to persist and become fickle, which damages business.

Mercury in the 3rd House

The presence of Mercury in the 3rd house shows versatile people. They are able to deal with many different subjects and talk to different audiences with ease due to their agile minds and excellent assimilation skills.

However, all this versatility can become instability if misused, constituting an indecisive person who is constantly divided between the options they have. They usually have difficulties concentrating and also writing. They start many activities, but rarely go to the end of something.

Mercury in the 4th House

People who have Mercury in the 4th house have excellent memories, are very analytical and can easily assimilate all the facts which happen in their domestic environment and in society as a whole. They are adaptable and quickly get used to the habits of a place.

But when the positioning proves unfavorable, it generates instabilities and a life without many goals. Individuals feel communication difficulties and due to their past emotions and the family conflicts they witnessed during childhood.

Mercury in 5th House

Natives with Mercury in the 5th house are creative people who can communicate what they want in a vibrant way. They have a sparkle of their own and are constantly involved in fun but intellectually oriented activities. They also like to learn even during their leisure time.

On the negative side, this position shows people with difficulties in showing affection and who maintain superficial relationships. Their nature is superficial and full of ambiguities. Therefore they have many difficulties in their love life and never manage to have something lasting.

Mercury in the 6th House

The mental abilities of natives who have Mercury in the 6th house are pronounced. Therefore they are organized and able to structure all spheres of their life. They like to keep busy and activities that require attention to detail. They are objective people who prefer to handle their affairs in a careful way.

They easily become workaholics and suffer from stress-related problems. They do not know how to say "no" when someone asks for their help and end up adopting a servile posture.

Mercury in 7th House

Those who have Mercury in the 7th house value their companionship. They like relationships where dialogue is present and where there is an exchange of information between the people involved because they feel they have much to teach and learn. Their relationships are marked by companionship rather than passion.

However, when the positioning is negative, they find it difficult to commit themselves. For example, they associate marriage with stagnation and imprisonment of their mind. Therefore, they need to get involved with several people to feel stimulated.

Mercury in the 8th House

The position of Mercury in the 8th house reveals very deep people. They know how to deal with highly complex topics and talk about a range of subjects connected with the spiritual life, a theme which interests them a great deal. They are also assertive and have no problems with subjects which are considered taboo.

When this positioning is negative, it reveals people who are sarcastic and who try to dominate others through their ideas. They want to be followed by others and reject any kind of change. They like to control, to show off and to exert influence.

Mercury in 9th House

Culture and other fields that talk about human existence are the main interest of people who have Mercury in the 9th house. They can get involved with philosophy, ethics and metaphysics with ease. They are always reading, researching and seeking to build knowledge in some way. They enjoy productive and enriching activities.

On the other hand, they can become intellectually snobbish people because they believe they know more than others. They are not afraid to expose their opinions to everyone and show off in a very vain way.

Mercury in the 10th House

Objectivity is the most striking feature of people who have Mercury in the 10th house. They are focused on their careers and social aspects, so they like to make plans and set goals to reach a higher level, especially in their careers.

On the negative side, Mercury in the 10th house reveals people who become overly formal and like to follow rules when it comes to life in society. They are very attached to appearances because they like power and status.

Mercury in the 11th house

Creativity and mental agility are the hallmarks of those with Mercury in the 11th house. They are also independent people who like to study various subjects considering different perspectives. They feed their knowledge when they get together with groups to discuss their interests.

In general, they tend to rebel against authority figures and dislike being told what to do by others. They sometimes take pleasure in disagreeing, and may do so just for fun. They are also very restless and can become irritable.

Mercury in 12th House

The presence of Mercury in the 12th house reveals fertile minds, so natives have active imaginations and may end up in areas of art, especially music and poetry. In some cases they are kind and affable, they are good listeners and make themselves available to others.

When talking about the negative side, Mercury in the 12th house reveals a mind capable of developing a series of fantasies. Their expectations for life are unrealistic and they end up shirking their responsibilities.

Mercury in Aspect in the Birth Chart

Mercury may appear in aspect with several planets in the birth chart, which influences a number of issues in the native's life. These aspects are called conjunctions, squares, trines, sextiles and inconjunctions.

All of them influence the way the planet will manifest in the life of a certain native, highlighting especially on how his mental processes happen and how he communicates with others.

Therefore, the next section of the article will be dedicated to address the issues regarding the various aspects of Mercury in the birth chart. So, to know more about it, read on.

Planetary Aspects

Mercury is a planet of variable quality. It is responsible for reasoning and addresses issues such as communication and intellectual impulses of the native. When it is in its domicile, it occupies the 3rd and 6th houses of the astral chart, which belong respectively to Gemini and Virgo, signs of which it is ruler.

It has a great capacity for adaptation, and the forms of expression the native finds depend on Mercury's connection with other aspects of his birth chart. It awakens awareness of universal laws in the native.

Conjunctions with Venus, Mars and Jupiter

When Mercury appears in conjunction with Venus, it awakens in natives the taste for writing and speech, as well as enhancing kindness. On the other hand, when the planet is in conjunction with Mars, natives become more perceptive and are able to make decisions very quickly.

In addition, they like intellectual clashes and may end up adopting questionable methods. Finally, when Mercury is in conjunction with Jupiter, this reveals conflicts because the two planets have very different ways of understanding reality and everything will depend on who is in control.

Conjunctions with Saturn, Uranus, Neptune and Pluto

The conjunction of Mercury and Saturn reveals people who can dedicate themselves to bureaucratic processes and have formal speeches, guided by what they believe to be correct. On the other hand, when planes appear together with Uranus, expansion is the watchword and things become unpredictable.

As far as Neptune and Pluto are concerned, it can be pointed out that while the former causes the sensitivity of natives to become sharpened, the conjunction of the latter with Mercury reveals minds that turn to discovering secrets.

Square and opposition in Venus, Mars and Jupiter

The squares of Mercury with Venus, Mars and Jupiter reveal, respectively, that the exchange of ideas can be stimulating for the native; active and quick minds in the decision-making process; and professional talents that depend on curiosity and the will to learn more.

On the other hand, Mercury's oppositions with the same planets highlight a superficial ability to interpret people; aggressive communication and combative characteristics; and finally, the ability to accumulate information and knowledge throughout life.

Square and oppositions Saturn, Uranus, Neptune and Pluto

The opposition between Mercury and Saturn, Uranus, Neptune and Pluto reveals, respectively, logical and disciplined minds, with a special capacity to work with long tasks; favors modernizations, but complicates communication; initiates a period of disagreement and doubts; and, finally, accentuates the intensity in relationships.

As far as quadratures are concerned, it is worth noting that sensitivity and intelligence are on the rise; change and emotion become part of the routine; mental refinement shows itself in an imaginative and creative way; and the presence of conflict and agitation in thoughts.

Trine and sextile in Venus, Mars and Jupiter

As far as the trine of Mercury with Venus, Mars and Jupiter are concerned, the following aspects manifest respectively: insight and mental attitudes are strengthened; the horizons for art-oriented areas are expanded; the ability to negotiate and convince is on the increase; and harmonious nature stands out.

When talking about the sextile of Mercury with the same planets, it is possible to point out versatility and good taste as characteristics of Venus. On the side of Mars, talents for the professional area stand out. And finally, Jupiter manifests intellectual curiosity.

Trine and sextile in Saturn, Uranus, Neptune and Pluto

In trine with Saturn, Mercury reveals people with logical and disciplined minds. With Uranus, the planet shows natives that border on genius due to their mental qualities, besides being very receptive to all kinds of environments. Finally, Neptune and Pluto show, respectively, the mental refinement and diligence of the natives.

As far as sextiles are concerned, Saturn manifests people with a tendency to work hard, Uranus reveals quick thinking and the ability to surprise, Neptune guarantees softness and calmness to natives and Pluto assures them intensity and ability to pursue ideas.

Mercury Inconjunctions

The inconjunctions of Mercury are the signs that do not share anything with this planet and are opposite to it. So, finding them depends on the positioning of a planet in the birth chart, since they are measured through angles of 30° and 150° and, therefore, are not predetermined. So, it is necessary to have more detailed information to be able to determine the inconjunctions accurately.

Mercury Retrograde for Astrology

In certain periods, the planets and celestial bodies move differently in the sky. Therefore, this change causes slowness in their cycles and makes one have the impression that they are moving backwards - hence the name retrograde motion.

This movement is part of the course of all planets except the Sun and the Moon. When we talk about Mercury, this movement affects the life of all people, regardless of their birth chart. Thus, the planet's transit makes some people more sensitive and generates wear and tear in communication.

To know more, continue reading the article and find more details of Mercury's retrograde motion.

The Retrograde Planets in the Birth Chart

With the exception of the Sun and the Moon, all planets present in the birth chart make retrograde movements. Energies are felt more intensely and in many different ways, which can stimulate characteristics such as introspection and make natives more uncomfortable, easily embarrassed.

This all depends on which planet is initiating this movement, as each one alters a different area of life. For example, Saturn retrograde can cause a lack of discipline and structure in the native's life, making them uncomfortable to follow rules.

Personality of Mercury Retrograde

Mercury is the ruling planet of the nervous system, so when it goes into retrograde motion, all mental and communication processes, from listening to the ability to research, are automatically affected. This can also affect electronic means of communication such as smartphones and computers.

Therefore, the period calls for review and concentration. There is something important to do and actions like cleaning up the work environment can help you get through this phase more smoothly. In addition, Mercury retrograde also calls for some form of rest.

Mercury Retrograde Karma

Mercury Retrograde's karma is linked to communication difficulties, so it can come to cause disruptions in this milieu and damage a number of means of expression, so this period should be used for re-evaluation of various issues while the transit takes place.

Thus, during transit, it is interesting to take some time to think about the way you have been positioning yourself and dialoguing with others. Doing so may help you realize new avenues of dialogue that have not yet been explored and may be interesting.

Which signs are ruled by Mercury in Astrology?

The signs ruled by Mercury are Gemini and Virgo. In the case of the first sign, the influence of the ruler is in the sense of sharpening curiosity. Thus, natives need to know a little about everything that exists in the world and want to learn as much as possible, something that can cause them to lack focus.

Thus, they are people who disperse easily and tend not to continue their projects because they are interested in other things. This process is not repeated with the sign of Virgo, in which Mercury acts differently.

As far as this sign is concerned, the planet makes the native's mind very analytical and he has the ability to reason in a practical way. Therefore, the native likes accuracy and has very keen minds.