In horary astrology, retrograde planets symbolize reversals, delays, returns, or revisions. A retrograde planet appears to move backward in the zodiac from Earth’s perspective, and this apparent motion carries deep symbolic meaning. It suggests that a matter is not moving forward normally, that something must be reconsidered, or that past issues are resurfacing.
1. The Meaning of Retrograde Motion
When a planet turns retrograde, it revisits ground already covered. In horary, this motion often represents:
- Reversals — plans or agreements may backtrack.
- Delays — progress slows or pauses.
- Returns — people, opportunities, or issues from the past reappear.
- Reconsideration — the querent or another party changes their mind.
📘 Example:
Querent asks, “Will my ex contact me again?”
- Mercury retrograde in the 7th → very likely, as Mercury retraces old paths and reconnects with the past.
2. General Interpretation by Planet
Planet | Typical Retrograde Meaning in Horary |
|---|---|
| Mercury | Miscommunication, confusion, revision, return of news or messages |
| Venus | Old love, changing values, indecision in relationships or finances |
| Mars | Delays in action, hesitation, internal conflict, revisiting strategy |
| Jupiter | Reevaluation of growth, belief systems, legal or moral reconsiderations |
| Saturn | Old obligations resurface, delays in structure or authority, karma reawakened |
📘 Example:
Querent asks, “Will the business deal close soon?”
Saturn retrograde ruling the 10th → no; authority or institution may delay decision or request revisions.
3. Retrograde Planets as Significators
If a significator (planet representing the querent or quesited) is retrograde:
The person may change their mind, retract, or return.
They may feel uncertain, regretful, or cautious.
The matter may need reassessment before progress continues.
📘 Example:
Querent asks, “Will he come back to me?”
Venus (partner) retrograde → very strong indicator of return or regret, but not always reconciliation unless reception/aspects support it.
4. Retrograde in Timing
Retrograde motion can extend the time an event takes to unfold.
Direct planets → straightforward timing (days, weeks).
Retrograde planets → delays or two-part timing (an event begins, pauses, then resumes).
📘 Example:
Moon applies to retrograde Mercury → matter begins soon but requires revision or a second chance before completion.
5. Retrograde and Aspects
- Applying to a retrograde planet → the other party may pull back, hesitate, or withdraw.
- Retrograde planet applying → shows a return or second attempt.
- Retrograde planet separating → may mean regret, unfinished business, or reconsideration of what just happened.
📘 Example:
Querent asks, “Will I get the job?”
- Mercury (querent) applies to Saturn (employer), but Saturn retrograde → employer reconsiders position or delays the hiring.
6. When Retrograde Brings a Second Chance
Retrogrades are not always negative — they can symbolize renewal or repair:
Reconnecting with the past (ex-partner, old employer).
Correcting errors or fixing past decisions.
Resurrecting opportunities previously lost.
📘 Example:
Querent asks, “Will my manuscript be accepted?”
Jupiter (publisher) retrograde → may have rejected it before, but now reopens negotiations.
7. Angular vs. Cadent Retrogrades
House Type | Retrograde Effect |
|---|---|
| Angular | Strong but unstable; may cause quick reversals |
| Succedent | Moderate; progress resumes slowly |
| Cadent | Weak; long delays or complete inactivity |
📘 Example:
Retrograde Mars in angular house → quick argument or decision reversal.
Retrograde Saturn in cadent house → slow, uncertain reactivation of matter.
8. Retrograde Combined with Reception
Reception modifies retrograde effects:
- Strong reception → misunderstandings can be repaired.
- Lack of reception → regret without resolution.
- Mutual reception with retrograde → indicates return and reconciliation.
📘 Example:
Venus retrograde in Aries, Mars in Taurus, mutual reception → both parties desire reconnection despite friction.
9. Key Insight
Retrograde planets in horary symbolize review, reversal, or return.
They often bring unfinished business to the surface, forcing reflection or reevaluation.
While delays and confusion are common, retrograde motion can also offer second chances and renewed clarity once the planet turns direct.
