Being the only zodiac represented by an object rather than a creature or a mythical beast, Libra is already peculiar on its own. It’s the seventh sign of the zodiac wheel and is ruled by the elegant and diplomatic Venus, planet of love, which is shared with another charming zodiac sign—Taurus.
But of Taurus we have already talked; therefore, let’s turn our gazes back and focus on today’s protagonist: our lovely Libra, better known as The Scales.
The sun passes through it from September 23 to October 22, marking the official start of autumn in the northern hemisphere, a season of transitions and falling leaves, which I absolutely adore.
Just like the season it belongs to, Libra’s energy is all about balance, grace, and change.
This enchanting constellation, nestled between Virgo and Scorpio, is relatively faint in the night sky compared to the other ones. So much so that, interestingly, it was once considered part of the claws of Scorpio in ancient astronomy. The area was, in fact, called with the Latin word ‘chelae’, which literally translates to ‘claws’. Fortunately, it later evolved into its own constellation and was fully embraced by the Romans, who associated it with fairness and justice.
Like I already said, Libra is pretty different from the other zodiac signs due to its symbol, but that’s not all. As a matter of fact, it distinguishes itself for its origins as well. Unlike the other signs that are directly linked to gods, their affairs, or mythical beasts, Libra does not have an extravagant tale. Like I mentioned in my Virgo article, it is often associated with Astraea, the Greek goddess of justice and purity; however, it’s not exactly represented by her. Astraea is the embodiment of the Virgo constellation, not of Libra. Yet, in some versions of the myth, it is said that when Astraea ascended to the heavens, she took her scales with her, and that they became the constellation of Libra.
Another goddess linked to this zodiac sign is Themis—Astraea’s mother and one of the six ‘daughters of heaven’, a product of Earth (Gaia) and Sky (Uranus). To be precise, she was less of a goddess and more of a titan, or better, the true personification of law and order. When we talk about justice, however, we must remember that we’re not exactly talking about human law but more about divine law. Themis wholly embodied justice—not to be confused with vengeance—and fairness, all typical characteristics of someone born under Libra.
Being also ruled by Venus, this zodiac is naturally drawn to beauty and love. It’s a sign that thrives in connection with others, ideas, and all artistic things. However, we must remember that Libra is also both an air sign and a cardinal sign, which means that, yes, Libras think deeply, but also that, when they want, they are perfectly able to initiate change.
People born under this zodiac can be misunderstood as indecisive, but much like the scales, they only want to be fair. They make, after all, great diplomats. It is also said that Libras are great artists, musicians, performers, and the true epitome of a hopeless romantic. But I like to think that most of all, and much like the planet that rules them, they are absolutely beautiful.
Up, Libra Illustration by my amazing twin Soul
Sources:
The Only Astrology Book You’ll Ever Need by Joanna Martine Woolfolk (2012)
The Library of the Unseen 
Penny for your thoughts…