The term “radical chart” is one of the most important foundations of horary astrology.
A radical horary chart means the chart is fit to be judged — it truly reflects the situation being asked about and can provide an accurate answer.

In this lesson, we will explore what makes a chart radical, how to recognize when it isn’t, and how ancient astrologers such as William Lilly, Guido Bonatti, and Henry Coley defined the rules of radicality.

1. What Does “Radical” Mean in Horary Astrology?

The word “radical” comes from the Latin radix, meaning root.
So, a “radical chart” is one that is rooted in truth.
It shows that the question, the querent, and the heavens are connected — the chart truly represents the question’s essence.

In simple terms:

A radical chart = The universe has agreed to speak.
A non-radical chart = The timing or intention is not yet aligned.

2. Why Radicality Matters

Horary astrology is not like natal astrology, where every chart can be read.
If a horary chart is not radical, the astrologer should not judge it.

Radicality acts as a divine safeguard — it prevents the astrologer from misreading the question or interpreting an answer when the universe is not yet ready to reveal it.

It’s like a spiritual permission slip:

“You may proceed — this question is valid.”

3. The Classical Indicators of a Radical Chart

William Lilly (1602–1681), in his classic text Christian Astrology, provided several considerations before judgment to determine radicality.
Let’s explore the most significant ones.

4. Understanding the Ascendant Degrees

The Ascendant describes the querent and the situation.
The degree of the Ascendant shows how mature or formed the question is:

• 0°–2° (Too Early):
  The situation is premature. The querent may not have full information yet.
  Example: Asking “Will I marry him?” after only one date.
• 3°–27° (Valid):
  The situation is ripe for judgment. The heavens have opened the door.
• 28°–29° (Too Late):
  The situation has already been decided or passed beyond control.
  Example: Asking “Will I get the job?” after already receiving a rejection email.

5. The Moon’s Condition

The Moon acts as a co-significator for the querent and shows how the situation develops.
Its condition tells us if the question is active, blocked, or concluded.

• Moon void of course: No aspects before leaving its sign → “Nothing will come of the matter.”
• Moon applying to a planet: Movement and development → The situation is unfolding.
• Moon in late degrees: The matter is ending soon.
• Moon in early degrees: The matter has just begun.

Example:
If the Moon is in early Aries, applying to the Sun — it means a new situation is forming; the question is alive and radical.

6. Planetary Hour Agreement

Each hour of the day is ruled by a planet.
When the planet ruling the hour agrees with the ruler of the Ascendant (by rulership, triplicity, or nature), the chart is radical.

Examples:

• Ascendant in Leo, planetary hour of Sun → Excellent agreement (same ruler).
• Ascendant in Taurus, hour of Venus → Harmonious.
• Ascendant in Scorpio, hour of Mars → Valid.
• Ascendant in Gemini, hour of Saturn → Not radical — elements conflict.

This rule checks whether the universe’s “clock” is in sync with the question’s energy.

7. The Astrologer’s Role in Radicality

Horary astrology depends on the astrologer’s consciousness as the channel of interpretation.
A chart becomes valid the moment the astrologer understands the question — not when the querent first thinks of it.

Thus, if the astrologer is distracted, emotional, or unclear, the reading may be inaccurate.
Ancient masters said:

“A polluted mind makes a polluted chart.”

So before judging, the astrologer should center themselves, breathe, and approach the question with reverence.

8. Symbolic Confirmation of Radicality

Sometimes, the chart “speaks” directly to the astrologer’s situation — confirming its truth.

For example:

• The Ascendant sign might describe the querent’s appearance or personality exactly.
• The Moon may be in the same sign as the astrologer’s natal Sun — showing resonance.
• The chart’s symbols “fit” the story naturally.

When the symbolism aligns with reality, you know the chart is radical — even if some technical rules fail.

9. When a Chart Is Not Radical

A non-radical chart often shows confusion or irrelevance.
Here are some warning signs:

When you see these, pause — don’t force interpretation.
Ask the querent to clarify or wait until the matter stabilizes.

10. Example 1: Non-Radical Chart

Question: “Will I get the job at Luna Corp?”

• Chart cast at 9:00 AM, Moon at 29° Pisces (void of course).
• Ascendant 1° Gemini.

🔹 Interpretation: Too early; Moon void.
The querent likely doesn’t have full information yet.
Perhaps interviews haven’t even begun. The universe says: wait.

11. Example 2: Radical Chart

Question: “Will my missing cat return home?”

• Ascendant 14° Leo (Sun rules).
• Hour ruler = Sun.
• Moon applying to Venus in the 4th house (home).

🔹 Perfect radicality.
The chart is alive and relevant.
Judgment: The cat returns safely within days.

12. Ethical Importance of Radicality

Radicality protects the astrologer’s integrity.
It reminds us:

• Not all questions must be answered immediately.
• Astrology is a sacred art — not fortune-telling.
• Truth comes only when both human and heaven are ready.

By respecting radicality, you respect the cosmic contract between querent and astrologer.

13. Spiritual View: The Universe’s Consent

Radicality is ultimately the universe’s permission to read the message.
A non-radical chart is like a closed envelope — it contains a message, but it isn’t yours to open yet.

When a chart is radical, it’s as if the universe whispers,

“Now. You may look inside.”

Conclusion

A radical chart is the heart of horary astrology — the confirmation that divine timing and human intention have merged.
Without radicality, the chart is just a map without a pulse.
With it, the chart becomes a living oracle of truth.