In traditional astrology, a planet’s relationship to the Sun is crucial in determining its strength and effectiveness. Because the Sun’s light dominates the sky, a planet’s proximity to the Sun can either empower it (through conjunction) or weaken it (through combustion or invisibility).
1. Combustion (Planet Burned by the Sun)
- A planet is said to be combust when it is within ~8°30′ of the Sun (some traditions vary slightly).
- The planet is overpowered and “burned up” by the Sun’s rays.
- Symbolizes weakness, difficulty, loss of clarity, hiddenness.
- Planets combust are often unable to express their energy freely.
Example: Mercury 5° away from the Sun = Mercury combust → difficulty with communication, nervous tension.
2. Cazimi (In the Heart of the Sun)
- A planet is cazimi when it is within 17 minutes (0°17′) of exact conjunction with the Sun.
- Instead of being weakened, the planet is empowered and honored, as if sitting “in the throne of the king.”
- Considered a condition of great strength and privilege.
Example: Venus exactly conjunct the Sun within 10′ → Venus cazimi → exalted charm, artistic gifts, magnetic love energy.
3. Under the Sun’s Beams (Invisible / Hidden)
- A planet is considered “under the beams” when it is within 15–17° of the Sun.
- The planet is not visible in the sky and thus lacks clarity or effectiveness.
- Less severe than combustion but still represents hidden, weakened, or indirect influence.
4. Superior Conjunction vs. Inferior Conjunction
- Applies to Mercury and Venus, since they orbit closer to the Sun.
- Inferior Conjunction: when Mercury/Venus is between the Earth and the Sun → more internalized, subjective energy.
- Superior Conjunction: when the Sun is between Earth and Mercury/Venus → more externalized, objective expression.
5. Planetary Visibility (Morning / Evening Star)
- Planets become stronger when they are visible in the sky (heliacal rising/setting).
- Example: Venus as Morning Star (Lucifer) vs. Evening Star (Hesperus) shows different qualities in love, attraction, and expression.
- Visibility is an important accidental dignity.
Summary of Planetary Conditions Relative to the Sun
Condition | Distance from Sun | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Cazimi | ≤ 0°17′ | Strongest, honored, empowered |
| Combustion | ≤ 8°30′ | Weak, burned, overpowered |
| Under Beams | ~15–17° from Sun | Hidden, weakened, less effective |
| Visible (heliacal) | Beyond beams | Strong, clear, independent expression |
Why This Matters
- These conditions show whether a planet is empowered, hidden, or harmed by the Sun’s light.
- Especially important in horary, electional, and natal astrology for determining planetary effectiveness.
