In horary astrology, the houses describe areas of life, while cusps mark their beginnings. Angles (Ascendant, Descendant, Midheaven, Imum Coeli) are especially powerful points. Interceptions occur when a house’s sign is fully contained within, not touching, a cusp. Understanding these concepts is crucial for judging timing, obstacles, and emphasis in horary charts.
1. House Cusps — The Entry Points of Life Areas
- Each house cusp marks the start of a life domain (1st house = self, 7th house = relationships, etc.).
- Planets near cusps act more prominently in that house’s affairs.
- Angular houses (1st, 4th, 7th, 10th) are most powerful, followed by succedent (2nd, 5th, 8th, 11th), and cadent (3rd, 6th, 9th, 12th).
📘 Example:
- A querent asks about career. Jupiter near the 10th cusp indicates a prominent, fast-developing opportunity.
2. Angles — The Power Points
- Ascendant (1st House Cusp) — Represents the querent, personality, and approach.
- Descendant (7th House Cusp) — Represents others, partnerships, opponents.
- Midheaven (10th House Cusp) — Career, public life, reputation, and outcomes.
- Imum Coeli (4th House Cusp) — Home, foundations, hidden matters, or endings.
Tips:
- Planets on angles are very strong, acting decisively.
- Angular planets can override weaknesses from essential dignity.
3. Interception — Hidden or Delayed Matters
Definition:
Interception occurs when a sign does not appear on any cusp, being fully enclosed within a house.
Effect:
- Planets in intercepted signs are less visible or active.
- Matters associated with intercepted houses may be delayed, hidden, or blocked.
📘 Example:
- 8th house intercepted Taurus; Venus in Taurus → financial inheritance is delayed or complicated.
4. Angular vs. Succedent vs. Cadent Houses
House Type | Description | Effect on Planets |
|---|---|---|
| Angular (1,4,7,10) | Strong, immediate action | Planets act decisively; outcomes visible |
| Succedent (2,5,8,11) | Stable, supportive | Moderate influence; results may take time |
| Cadent (3,6,9,12) | Weak, preparatory | Planets act indirectly; delays or hidden effects |
Interpretation Tip:
A weak planet in an angular house is stronger than a strong planet in a cadent house.
5. Practical Applications in Horary
- Identify the house relevant to the question (1st = querent, 7th = partner, etc.).
- Check the cusp and angularity for timing and emphasis.
- Look for interceptions — matters may be hidden, delayed, or need extra effort.
- Combine with planetary strength for accurate judgment.
📘 Example:
- Querent asks, “Will I sell my property soon?”
- 4th house (property) is intercepted in Capricorn; Saturn in 4th → delays, legal obstacles likely.
6. Timing Insights
- Planets near cusps: faster events, immediate results.
- Planets in angular houses: decisive action; outcome sooner.
- Planets in intercepted signs: delays, complications, or hidden elements must resolve first.
- Cadent house planets: slow-moving, preparatory, indirect results.
7. Special Cases: Double Interceptions
- Sometimes two consecutive houses are intercepted.
- Matters related to these houses may experience extreme delay or secrecy.
- Interpretation requires attention to planetary dignity, aspects, and reception.
📘 Example:
- 5th and 6th houses intercepted; Venus in 5th → romance or creativity delayed; Mercury in 6th → health matters require preparation.
8. Summary Table: Cusps, Angles, and Interceptions
Feature | Meaning | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| House Cusp | Start of life area | Planets near cusp act prominently |
| Angular House | 1st,4th,7th,10th | Strong, immediate action |
| Succedent House | 2nd,5th,8th,11th | Moderate, stable outcomes |
| Cadent House | 3rd,6th,9th,12th | Weak, indirect, delayed action |
| Intercepted Sign | Fully enclosed in house | Hidden, delayed, or blocked matters |
9. Final Insight
House cusps, angles, and interceptions are key indicators of timing, emphasis, and obstacles in horary charts.
- Angular planets → speed and decisiveness.
- Interceptions → delays, hidden factors, or secret influences.
- Understanding these points allows precise judgment of when and how matters unfold.
