In Electional Astrology, the concept of planetary strength, or dignity, is the absolute cornerstone. A planet that is strong can effectively bring about its positive significations; a weak planet will fail. You are building a "team" of celestial actors, and you want your key players to be in peak condition.

Essential Dignity (A Planet's INNATE Power):
This is based on the planet's zodiac sign position.

• Rulership (Domicile): Planet in its own sign (e.g., Mars in Aries). Excellent. The planet is at home, powerful, and can act decisively.
• Exaltation: Planet in a sign where it is honored (e.g., Sun in Aries). Very Strong. The planet is elevated and has enhanced power.
• Triplicity, Term, Face: Minor dignities that add layers of comfort and support.
• Detriment: Planet in the sign opposite its rulership (e.g., Moon in Capricorn). Weak. The planet is uncomfortable and struggles to function.
• Fall: Planet in the sign opposite its exaltation (e.g., Venus in Virgo). Very Weak. The planet's nature is corrupted and it acts poorly.

Accidental Dignity (A Planet's CIRCUMSTANTIAL Power):
This is based on the planet's position in the chart.

• Strong Accidental Conditions:
  • In an Angular House (1st, 4th, 7th, 10th): Powerful. The planet is prominent and potent in the situation.
  • Direct in Motion: Can act decisively forward.
  • Free from Combustion (being too close to the Sun): Its energy is not burned up.
  • Making applying aspects to benefics (Jupiter, Venus).
• Weak Accidental Conditions:
  • In a Cadent House (3rd, 6th, 9th, 12th): Weak. The planet is hidden, busy, or ineffective.
  • Retrograde: Energy is inward, delayed, or revisiting the past.
  • Combust: Weakened and obscured by the Sun.
  • Under the Sun's Beams (approaching combustion): Weakening.

Examples in Practice:

• Example: Electing for a Public Speech (Mercury).
  • Strong Mercury: Mercury in Gemini (Rulership) in the 10th House (Angular), direct, trine Jupiter.
  • Interpretation: Your communication will be clear, authoritative, intelligent, and well-received, expanding your reputation.
  • Weak Mercury: Mercury in Pisces (Detriment) in the 12th House (Cadent), retrograde, square Saturn.
  • Interpretation: Communication will be confused, hidden, prone to delays and errors, and hindered by criticism. A terrible election.
• Example: Electing to Start a Construction Company (Saturn).
  • Strong Saturn: Saturn in Capricorn (Rulership) in the 10th House (Angular), direct, trine the Ascendant.
  • Interpretation: The business will be structured, stable, authoritative, and built to last.
  • Weak Saturn: Saturn in Cancer (Detriment) in the 6th House (Cadent), retrograde.
  • Interpretation: The business will face chronic delays, employee issues, and a weak foundation. Avoid.