Mercury’s Meaning in Astrology

In my opinion, so frequently is Mercury overlooked that you might be tempted to think it’s intentional. And yet the planet closest to the Sun has major sway in the birth chart.

In natal astrology, this little planet governs our metal processes, the way we communicate, how we learn, how we go about our daily lives, our capacity for learning, how we perceive things and our reasoning abilities. So, quite a lot really!

It can also intensify the traits associated with the Sun sign if it sits in the same sign. For example, my friend’s Sun sign is Leo and her Mercury sign is also Leo. As rule of thumb, her personality should be heavily Leonine, and in my opinion, it is. But, of course, this isn’t the case for everyone as there’s a lot going on in any given birth chart.

I have a Leo Sun sign and a Virgo Mercury sign, and much of the time I think in a Virgoan manner. For example, I’m analytical, thorough, observant but also critical and a worrier; all traits associated with Virgo.

Oh, and I think it’s important to mention that its effects are much stronger if, in your chart, it’s situated in one of the two signs that it — Gemini or Virgo. This, of course, applies to any planet in one of the signs it rules.

Mercury’s Symbolism in Mythology

This planet is known to represent the messenger of the Gods, Hermes, but its mission was far more complex. In Roman mythology, Mercury was responsible for commerce and finances, travel, medicine support for humans and handing Souls to the God of the Underworld, Pluto. He was a God who wore many hats, and his helmet was always represented by two wings so he could move swiftly from one task to another.

A Go Between Earth and the Other Side

Interestingly, this planet was also known for acting as a guide of souls to the underworld, and indeed, many psychics and mediums are either Gemini Sun signs or have Gemini sitting prominently in their birth charts somewhere. For instance, Theresa Caputo, the famous medium from the American show Long Island Medium, is a Gemini as is Amy Allan, the renowned gifted medium from The Dead Files. I also personally know a couple of fabulous and highly accurate psychics who have Gemini ascendants.

The Closest Planet to The Sun

Mercury is the planet closest to the Sun. It’s never further than 28.3 degrees from it so the only sign so it can only appear in three signs in the birth chart — the same as the Sun sign, the one sign before the Sun sign or one sign after the Sun sign. For instance, if Leo is the Sun sign, Mercury will only be found in Cancer, Leo or Virgo. This is the planet that is closest to the Sun, but paradoxically, not the hottest (that’s Venus). It’s a very fast planet, with one year lasting a mere 88 Earth days. And knowing the quick pace of mercurial energy, this shouldn’t surprise us.

Natal Chart Placement

As fascinating as its cosmic aura is, you’re probably wondering what all this means specifically for you. Mercury’s placement in your chart speaks volumes about your mental energy and how you express it and use it in your daily life.

Mercury’s Sign

Since Mercury moves so fast, it enters a new sign every two weeks! The sign it’s in can be viewed as the filter through which your thoughts pass and how you express them. This placement impacts your personality, life perspective and the way you make decisions based on the information available to you.

• Aries: Your courage is your biggest strength. You speak your mind in a very assertive way and know no filter when you express yourself. You can easily be a source of inspiration thanks to the passion and excitement you invest in your ideas. However, on the downside, you might also become too assertive and outright impatient at times. So, learn to tame this side, and you’ll shine as bright as your magical mind.  
• Taurus: This is a stubborn placement but also practical and reliable. You pay attention to details and observe things before forming and expressing an opinion on them. I have to praise you for your calm and clear communication skills and your determination to finish what you started. And even if this placement can make you a bit stubborn, it stays in your power to convert it into persistence and diligence!
• Gemini: Mercury is at home here, and it shows in the personality and charm of these natives. If you have this placement, you’re curious, witty, intelligent, and full of fascinating ideas. You find it easy to adapt to new circumstances, and this flexibility brings you important opportunities in life. While a this placement makes you innovative enough to succeed in any profession, I see these natives reaching their true potential as artists, writers, or actors.
• Cancer: You’re sensitive and very much in touch with your intuition. You speak your heart rather than your mind and are empathetic and compassionate. You make a good friend as you know how to listen to people and give valuable advice.
• Leo: You are bold and dramatic in your self-expression but also your confidence and self-esteem. You have a talent for writing and speaking that makes others notice you and follow your guidance. With Mercury in Leo, there’s no question that you’re a leader and have a bold way to speak your mind. But just like for Aries Mercury natives, I have to warn you about the lack of filter as sometimes, being too direct can work against you!
• Virgo: You’re incredibly observant, and spot things that pass others by. This placement makes you more practical, realistic, and modest. You may worry too much, or overthink things. You tend to be more aware of your shortcomings than your qualities, and as helpful as that can be, it can also damage your confidence.
• Libra: You seek harmony and understanding while you avoid conflict and confrontation. You balance everything out in a mature way before making a decision. This placement gives you an eye for beauty, and if you don’t possess any artistic skills (which is doubtful), you sure know how to appreciate the finest art. Note that your determination to satisfy everyone can make you a bit indecisive.
• Scorpio: Your mental energy is very intense. You thrive in lively conversations and are determined to uncover even the most complicated secrets. This placement gives you the confidence and courage to touch on profound topics and express yourself with conviction. People might perceive you as confrontational but also deep and mysterious. While you seek to understand every dilemma you come across, you aren’t as fast to share your own secrets.
• Sagittarius: This is such a fun and jovial placement, without being immature. Although you have a charming, childish side, you also seek to explore philosophy and acquire wisdom through traveling to different parts of the world. You’re optimistic and positive, which makes you inspirational. Also, this placement gives you a unique sense of humor that adds to your natural charm.
• Capricorn: This is a very grounded and practical energy. You trust your logic and appreciate order and discipline in your life. You’re exceptionally diligent, methodical and determined to reach your goals. I’d say that one of your superpowers is planning long-term goals. You have a strategic eye that helps you reach your objectives one step at a time.
• Aquarius: You’re a delightfully authentic and original person. Given that one of the rulers of Aquarius is Uranus, the higher octave of Mercury, you incorporate the attributes of this planet too. You have your own way of seeing things and communicating, which might appear difficult to understand for others. But note that you might seem a bit aloof and unapproachable at times.
• Pisces: You’re dreamy and in touch with your psychic skills. This placement connects your conscious mind with your subconscious, making you a true visionary. You have an artistic side and might even enjoy poetry and painting, as you impress others with your talent. But this placement can also bring confusion, and you might struggle to communicate clearly.

House Placement

While the sign gives you a glimpse into the mental energy you were gifted with, its house placement shows you how can use it for great results.

In the 1st House of Self

You know how to speak your mind and have great communication skills. This placement boosts your curiosity, creativity, confidence and self-esteem.

In the 2nd House of Material Wealth

Your intellect is used to create stability and material wealth. You have an eye for business and may be a successful entrepreneur. This is a great placement for negotiations, education and all means to acquire knowledge. You like to create a comfortable life and possess the qualities to do so.

In the 3rd House of Communication and Intellect

You enjoy the most comfortable placement for this planet. Your communication and intellect are supported by this placement and your sharp mind helps you create beautiful things in life.

In the 4th House of Home

Your intellect is strongly connected to your sense of home. You’re interested in everything related to your family and heritage and you enjoy uncovering your families history through lively conversations. I wouldn’t be surprised if you’d enjoy working from home or if there’s a secret library in your basement! You express your thoughts and feelings best around your family and the bond you have with them is strong.

In the 5th House of Creativity and Joy

Mercury here is a source of joy, creativity and inspiration for others. You might be a gifted writer, painter or actor or thrive in other professions that allow you to express your creativity with ease. You may be flirtatious and find it very easy and fun to make new friends. However, make sure you you aren’t too playful and maintain a practical outlook on life.

In the 6th House of Daily Work and Health

You’re especially meticulous and practical. You use your communication skills and intellect in your daily life and achieve success through your organized mind. You’re also very realistic about life and your capabilities. This placement also connects your mind to your health. So, you have to avoid burnout and try to reduce stress, as it can affect you more than others.

In the 7th House of Relationships

Your mind and communication skills are your biggest assets in the most important partnerships. You need mental stimulation to establish a connection with other people. You thrive in complex conversations that help you improve your perspective on life. Mutual understanding and support are extremely important in all your relationships.

In the 8th House of Transformation

You have a chameleonic mind. You have the wisdom and mental strength to adjust yourself to any circumstances and grow through your experiences. You might use your intellect to resolve complex dilemmas and mysteries. This placement is ideal for studying psychology and performing complex investigations.

In the 9th House of Travel and Philosophy

Your focus is on higher education and achieving wisdom through your experiences. You love to travel and discover new cultures as they broaden your horizons. You absorb information easily and from everywhere. This placement can also make you a bit too idealistic so make sure you keep your mind grounded.

In the 10th House of Career

Your public image, professional life and social status interests you greatly. You might become an authority in your profession and a mentor for other people. This placement highlights your ambition, drive, and determination. You can excel in careers like teaching, journalism, writing and those that imply a public reputation. Be careful though — don’t sacrifice your relationships for your career.

In the 11th House Aspirations and Social Life

You express yourself best through your social networks and the groups you join. You like to speak in front of an audience and bring inspiration to masses of people. You might be interested in activism and find plenty of social causes to defend.

In the 12th House of Spirituality

Finally, Mercury in the house of spirituality connects your mind with your psychic energy. You can rationalize the most complex, spiritual concepts and might change your beliefs in radical ways throughout your life. You like to do research and reach your understanding before you follow a spiritual path. This placement helps you achieve a high level of self-awareness and understand your cosmic gifts.

Astrological Aspects

The astrological aspects that Mercury forms with other planets show how its energy influences the other areas of our lives.

I want to stress the fact that Mercury’s aspects with other personal planets can tell us a great, great deal about important matters like personality, love and expectations, so they are even more important than other natal aspects.

• Conjunctions: These affect your mind profoundly and can even change its direction. For instance, Mercury’s conjunct Venus shows that you use your intellect to achieve your desires and manifest love in your life.
• Sextiles: These are harmonious aspects that bring together the mercurial qualities and the best energy of the other celestial body involved.
• Trines: These supportive cosmic energy flows enhance the ability to think clearly and make good decisions.
• Squares: This may bring mental friction and difficult communication but also great opportunities for personal growth.  
• Oppositions: This aspect can bring radical decisions and mental challenges, according to the energy of the other planet. These aspects will help you learn many things about your limits and strengths!