VENUS was the goddess of love and beauty in Greek myths. Her realm of rulership was the art of courtship and seduction, as well as objects of luxury, sensuality and indulgence. VENUS was the quintessential goddess of desire, and her influence always imparts an inclination towards the better things in life. Her taste is impeccable, manners and presentation are of supreme importance to her. The role VENUS plays in the world is to bring grace, beauty and charm to the area of life that she touches. However, she is also capable of being spoiled, self-indulgent, and lazy and at times even morally challenged. Sometimes too much of the good things in life can get the better of even a goddess. She does have a good sense of humor though, and can enjoy a good joke, even at her own expense. Without her influence none of us would know how to flirt and seduce one another. She brings playfulness and joy to the process of courtship.
But VENUS is not all feather boa’s and bubble baths. VENUS is also considered the goddess of war, while MARS (her secret lover) is considered the god of war and love. Hmm, it’s interesting that love and war should be so closely connected don’t you think? You see VENUS can be pretty tough on the battlefield of love, and she knows how to win without it seeming like a battle. And besides if she has her way it’s always a two-sided win. But if things get ugly, watch out. VENUS knows how to get her fair share, she could just take you for all your money! But basically she really just wants everything to be beautiful and erotic all the time.
VENUS is the traditional ruler of both Taurus and Libra. The side of Venus that represents love rules Taurus. This is why Taurus’ can be so earthy and materialistic. If you really love that blouse and that pair of earrings, well you just have to have them don’t you? And how about that cute thing at the checkout line in the grocery? Taurus’ can be indulgent, and once they find what they like, they don’t like to change it. That would upset the order of their creature comforts, and that would be, well um, uncomfortable. So, Taurus has gained a reputation for being quite stubborn. But it is due to Taurus’ influence that we have much that is truly beautiful in the way of art and objects that enrich the quality of our aesthetic experience of life.
Libra on the other hand, could argue you into a coma, changing their point of view as often as their clothes (and that’s often). Since the warlike side of VENUS rules Libra, Libra’s often consider a good stimulating debate to be foreplay! Under a Libra’s cool eye, the trappings of love are really well planned out strategies. Don’t be fooled by that charming lighthearted attitude, or innocent air head act. The Libra usually knows exactly how to get what they want, and they use lots of charm to do it. Don’t ever underestimate the power of beauty, charm and social graces to influence the public, politics and even overthrow the bastions of world power. Most Libra’s can strategize as well as Napoleon! I also use the ASTEROIDS as rulership of Libra, since they lend depth the issue of human relationships, which is Libra’s domain. If you are a Libra, or want to read more about how the ASTEROIDS influence relationship dynamics read that page too.
No matter where VENUS is placed in the Natal Chart, her influence is always felt in terms of our individual values, and what we consider important. Although Taurus and Libra are the only signs ruled by VENUS, everyone has VENUS’ influence on some part of their life. For more information about how VENUS influences you, you might want to have a Natal Chart Interpretation.
Taurus is acquisitive and sensual in the extreme and can judge their experience of life by the things they feel touch taste and own. They have good taste, and want the best in life.