In astrology, the houses represent different areas of life. Each house governs specific themes, experiences, and activities, showing where the planetary energies manifest in a person’s life. While planets show what energies are active, and signs show how they express themselves, the houses show where in life these energies play out.

The 12 Houses and Their Meanings

1. First House (Ascendant / Self)
   • Focus: Self-image, appearance, personality, beginnings
   • Keywords: Identity, approach to life, physical body
2. Second House (Finances & Values)
   • Focus: Wealth, possessions, material resources, self-worth
   • Keywords: Security, values, earning ability
3. Third House (Communication & Learning)
   • Focus: Communication, siblings, early education, local environment
   • Keywords: Learning, writing, speaking, thinking
4. Fourth House (Home & Family)
   • Focus: Family, home, roots, emotional foundation
   • Keywords: Security, heritage, parental influences
5. Fifth House (Creativity & Romance)
   • Focus: Creativity, self-expression, children, romance, fun
   • Keywords: Pleasure, hobbies, entertainment, love affairs
6. Sixth House (Work & Health)
   • Focus: Daily routines, work habits, health, service
   • Keywords: Responsibility, efficiency, wellness, self-discipline
7. Seventh House (Partnerships & Marriage)
   • Focus: Relationships, marriage, partnerships, contracts
   • Keywords: Cooperation, one-on-one connections, legal bonds
8. Eighth House (Transformation & Shared Resources)
   • Focus: Shared finances, transformation, intimacy, inheritance
   • Keywords: Power, regeneration, psychological depth, joint resources
9. Ninth House (Philosophy & Travel)
   • Focus: Higher learning, travel, philosophy, spirituality
   • Keywords: Expansion, beliefs, adventure, wisdom
10. Tenth House (Career & Public Life)
    • Focus: Career, social status, reputation, achievements
    • Keywords: Ambition, responsibility, authority, recognition
11. Eleventh House (Friendships & Groups)
    • Focus: Social groups, friendships, hopes and dreams
    • Keywords: Community, networking, goals, humanitarian interests
12. Twelfth House (Secrets & Spirituality)
    • Focus: Subconscious mind, solitude, hidden matters, spirituality
    • Keywords: Karma, introspection, healing, spiritual growth

How Houses Work in a Chart

• Planets in a house show what energies influence that area of life.
• The sign on the cusp of a house shows how that house’s themes are expressed.
• Aspects between planets can further refine the interpretation.
• Together, planets, signs, and houses provide a complete picture of life experiences.