Using the Planetary Hours to Glimpse Your Personality

In astrology, each day of the week is associated with one of the major traditional planets and luminaries in our sky. Did you know the ruling planet of the day you were born can have a subtle impact on your personality? Let's have a look.

Why Do the Planets Rule the Days?

In several languages, the seven days of the week are named after the classical planets in Hellenistic astronomy or the deities that correspond to them. This attribution was taken from an older practice in Babylonian astrology later called the "Planetary Hours" in which one of the seven classical planets is given rulership over each day and various parts of the day. The sequence is from slowest- to fastest-moving as the planets appear in the night sky, known as the "Chaldean order". In general the Planetary hours are used more for horary and electional work, since they figure greatly in selecting a favorable time to help us achieve our aims. But we can use it in natal chart interpretations to glean a smidgen of information about your personality.

Rulers of the Days

Monday - Ruled by the Moon. It's name "Moon's day".

Tuesday - Ruled by Mars. It's name means "Tyr's day", with Tyr being the Norse deity associated with Mars.

Wednesday - Ruled by Mercury. It's name means "Woden's day", Woden(Odin) being the Norse deity associated with Mercury.

Thursday - Ruled by Jupiter. It's name means "Thor's day", Thor being the Norse deity associated with Jupiter.

Friday - Ruled by Venus. It's name means "Freya's day", Freya being the Norse deity associated with Venus.

Saturday - Ruled by Saturn. It's name means "Saturn's day".

Sunday - Ruled by the Sun. It's name means "Sun's day".

What Does it Mean to Be Born on a Day

Although not as significant, as say the ruling planet in your natal chart or other influences, knowing the traits imparted by the day ruler can be an interesting snippet for personality analysis.

If you are a Monday child you are more emotional and often either like to or need more nurturing. You can be moody and fickle. You have a very gentle nature. You tend to be intuitive, humble, and compassionate. You are also talkative, a good listener, and have a tendency to follow your gut feelings instead of analyzing situations systematically. Home-oriented, family bonds and friendships are very important to you. You are always there for loved ones. You likely have a very sensitive constitution and tend to fall sick easily. You are more inclined towards your mother, women and their affairs. You are highly sensitive to the needs and feelings of others. You are highly impressionable, and tend to over-compromise in relationships.

If you are a Tuesday child you are courageous and won't easily back down. You are independent and straightforward but may also be impulsive. Diplomacy is not your strong suit, as you find it difficult to compromise. You may have a strong sense of adventure and might be drawn to activities that others consider risky or dangerous. You have a zest for life and enjoy taking part in physical activities like sports. You prefer to be on the move and can be restless if things become too stagnant. You are assertive, confident and not afraid to speak your mind. Due to a talent for inspiring others you might have natural leadership abilities. You may value your independence significantly and thus struggle with feeling tied down or limited in relationships.

If you are a Wednesday child you are mental and outgoing. You have a natural ability to communicate your ideas, both verbally and in writing. Because of your analytical abilities you are probably excellent at problem-solving and critical thinking. You are also highly versatile and well-rounded. You are prone to overthinking which can lead to anxiety and stress if left unmanaged.

If you are a Thursday child you are generally optimistic, positive, outgoing, love adventure and learning. While you may be prone to excess at times, you have a strong moral compass and a deep sense of justice that guides you. Typically you have a great sense of humor and enjoy making others laugh. You are also generous and willing to help others. You likely have a thirst for new experiences and are always looking for ways to broaden your horizons.

If you are a Friday child you are charming and diplomatic. You are a natural peacemaker who enjoys creating harmony in your relationships with others. You have a natural ability to understand other people's perspectives and are often sought out for advice and support. You are creative and artistic, with an eye for beauty and symmetry. You are romantic, and passionate, with a magnetic personality that sets others at ease. You are very social and love to spend meaningful time with friends and family.

If you are a Saturday child you are disciplined and hardworking. You are often characterized as responsible, hardworking, and methodical. You are driven to achieve your goals. You might find you have a few challenges to overcome, but you are not easily discouraged which may inspire others. You may be perceived as aloof or detached, as you probably keep your emotions private. You can be stubborn and resistant to change, thus versatility may not be your strong suit. A desire for perfection can lead you to be too highly self-critical.

If you are a Sunday child you are charismatic, warm, friendly and light up a room without trying. You enjoy being in the spotlight and socializing. You are likely very creative and confident. You have a royal air and strive for a fun and purposeful life. You possess strong willpower and are very generous to those you love. People often turn to you for leadership because of an air of authority.

Final Thoughts

What day were you born? Do you see subtle hints of it's ruler in your characteristics?

Maybe you want to continue your reading about the Planetary Hours. Tell me your thoughts!