In astrology, planets are often classified as Masculine (Active, Yang) or Feminine (Receptive, Yin). This categorization does not relate to gender in a literal sense but rather to energetic qualities. Masculine planets express outwardly, actively, and directly, while Feminine planets embody inward, receptive, and nurturing energy.
Masculine (Active / Yang) Planets
These planets are associated with action, expression, initiative, and outward projection.
- Sun ☉ → Vitality, ego, self-expression, leadership
- Mars ♂ → Energy, aggression, drive, courage
- Jupiter ♃ → Expansion, optimism, growth, exploration
- Saturn ♄ → Discipline, structure, authority, perseverance
Keywords: Outward, expressive, assertive, active, external focus
Feminine (Receptive / Yin) Planets
These planets symbolize receptivity, intuition, nurturing, and internalization.
- Moon ☽ → Emotions, instincts, nurturing, memory
- Venus ♀ → Love, beauty, harmony, pleasure
- Mercury ☿ → Neutral but often considered feminine due to adaptability and receptivity to influence
- Neptune ♆ → Spirituality, compassion, imagination, empathy
- Pluto ♇ → Transformation, regeneration, hidden power (deeply receptive and inwardly transformative)
Keywords: Inward, receptive, intuitive, nurturing, inner world
Special Note on Mercury
- Mercury is often regarded as neutral, because it easily adapts to the sign it occupies.
- However, in traditional classifications, it leans toward the feminine/receptive side due to its changeability.
Why This Matters in Astrology
- Balance of energies: A chart with many masculine planets suggests outward action, confidence, and assertiveness. A chart with many feminine planets emphasizes receptivity, intuition, and inward focus.
- Personality expression: Masculine energy seeks to project and initiate; feminine energy seeks to absorb, respond, and harmonize.
- Compatibility and synthesis: Understanding masculine/feminine dynamics helps analyze relationships, work style, and personal growth.
✨ Summary:
Masculine planets = active, expressive, external energy.
Feminine planets = receptive, intuitive, internal energy.
Astrology seeks balance between these two polarities for wholeness.
