In horary astrology, reception describes how planets interact, either through house rulership or aspects. Understanding the difference between reception by house and reception by aspect helps assess cooperation, influence, and obstacles more accurately in a horary chart.
1. Reception by House
Definition:
- Occurs when a planet occupies a sign ruled by another planet that governs a relevant house.
- Shows natural affinity, support, or favor based on rulership.
Effect:
- Indicates help or cooperation from the planet’s domain.
- Outcome is influenced by house rulership hierarchy and dignity.
📘 Example:
- Querent asks about a loan.
- Venus (money) in Taurus (ruled by Venus) → strong reception by house → smooth approval or favor.
2. Reception by Aspect
Definition:
- Occurs when planets form aspects (conjunction, trine, sextile, square, opposition) and one planet receives the other.
- Indicates communication, cooperation, or tension between planets.
Effect:
- Reveals dynamic interaction, timing, and indirect influence.
- Strong aspect + reception → smooth cooperation; weak or afflicted → partial success or resistance.
📘 Example:
- Querent asks: “Will I get support from a colleague?”
- Mars square Venus, but Venus receives Mars → some resistance exists, but cooperation is possible through effort.
3. Comparing House vs. Aspect Reception
Feature | Reception by House | Reception by Aspect |
|---|---|---|
| Basis | Planet occupies another’s sign | Planet in aspect with another |
| Indicates | Natural favor or affinity | Active cooperation or tension |
| Timing | More constant, structural influence | Dynamic, event-driven influence |
| Strength | Enhanced by planet dignity | Enhanced by aspect type and exactness |
📘 Example:
Loan request: Venus in Taurus (house reception) → inherently favorable.
Venus applying to Jupiter (aspect reception) → smooth, timely process, but depends on aspect timing.
4. Practical Applications in Horary
- Check both types of reception to assess overall planetary cooperation.
- Reception by house indicates underlying support or favor.
- Reception by aspect shows active interaction, potential mediation, or obstacles.
- Combine with application/separation, translation of light, and angularity for precise judgment.
📘 Example:
- Querent asks, “Will my contract be approved?”
- Mercury (communication, 6th house) in Gemini (house reception) → favorable base.
- Mercury applying to Venus (aspect reception) → timing and cooperation smooth; approval likely.
5. Key Insight
- House reception = structural, inherent favor; background support.
- Aspect reception = dynamic, interaction-driven; shows how cooperation or tension unfolds.
- Both must be weighed together for accurate horary judgment.
