The Differences Between Synastry and Composite Charts!

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A synastry chart delves into the intricate web of mutual influences and characterizes the unique chemistry between individuals. It goes beyond the surface level and explores the emotional impact they have on each other during their interactions. Synastry, a method employed by astrologers, examines the interplay of energies between two individuals. It allows us to observe and understand the dynamics of affection, communication, sexual compatibility, and attraction that exist between them. Through the intricate angles formed by each person’s planets with the other’s, the synastry chart unveils a map illustrating the harmony or disharmony within their horoscopes. It sheds light on the captivating, irresistible nature of certain connections, revealing why some people captivate and intrigue us. Furthermore, it can help determine the presence or absence of genuine chemistry between two individuals. By examining the synastry chart, we gain a swift understanding of the similarities and differences that exist between them, allowing us to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of their union.

In contrast, the composite chart takes two individual birth charts and melds them into a single, complex horoscope. This mysterious fusion recalculates the relationship’s Sun, Mercury, Venus, Mars, and other celestial bodies based on the new midpoint between the two charts. The composite chart, akin to a natal chart, depicts the emergence of something entirely new. Unlike the synastry chart, the composite chart possesses its own goals, requirements, operational style, and patterns of growth and cycles. These unique attributes are reflected in the transits to the composite chart. To comprehend the influence of this partnership on our lives, we can examine our own birth chart and compare it to the composite chart of the relationship.

Within the composite chart, the Sun symbolizes the distinctiveness of the pair and the central essence of their connection. The entire composite chart serves as a guide to identify the challenges inherent in the relationship and describes the nature of the bond itself. The vitality and purpose of the relationship, symbolized by the Sun, radiate and illuminate specific areas of our individual natal charts. By determining where the composite Sun aligns within our personal horoscope, we can discern the areas of our lives that will be most influenced by this partnership.

Renowned astrologer Liz Greene explains that the composite chart exudes a “curious fated vibe,” with each partner adapting to the patterns of energy that arise from their interaction. Unlike the synastry chart, which primarily illustrates how individuals interact, the composite chart, often considered as the relationship’s third wheel, provides a more precise understanding of the challenges faced as a couple. It goes beyond surface-level dynamics and dives deep into the intricate dynamics that shape and define the relationship.

According to Penny Thronton,

The composite chart describes the actual experience of two people in a relationship. As such, it offers an immediate and clear idea of a couple’s interaction and the main areas under focus in the relationship. Certainly the other techniques of synastry already covered give valuable insights into relationships, but the composite puts it all together quickly and succinctly. The composite can be read in much the same way as the natal chart, but with one fundamental difference. In the composite, the planets and houses are the key factors for interpretation and not the signs. The planets as they are seen in composite are of course placed in the signs, but in effect they (the signs0 are just abstractions serving merely to measure the planetary positions. As this technique is still relatively new, perhaps, in time, the signs will be found to have a bearing on interpretation. Personally, I have not found them to be effective. The angular houses (1st, 4th, 7th, and 10th) are the most dynamic areas of the composite chart and in close personal relationships it is highly desirable to have any of these houses occupied. The 4th house is an especially sensitive area; home does not merely imply four walls that surround a couple but the sense of ‘being at home’ with each other. As with the I.C and the 4th house in a natal chart, in a composite chart, the roots of the relationships are found here with all the connotations of origins of past lives. The 5th and 11th houses also bode well for personal relationships. These two houses are happy, creative areas of the composite; the 11th house, which is synonymous with friendship is an essential factor for long-term relationships. Although the 5th house is allied to love affairs, many long-term relationships have a strong 5th house emphasis. The 2nd and 8th houses have much to do with feelings – emotional and sexual – and so are also very important for relationships such as marriage. The 6th and 12th houses seem to cause a variety of problems for couples when they are occupied (especially by the personal planets). Duty and responsibility are factors every couple undertakes in marriage, but these qualities can be over emphasized in a relationship when the planets are placed in these houses. The 6th/12th house axis may have karmic connotations, particualty when the Sun and Moon (or ruling planet or nodes) are present. In this case, the relationship is likely to be one of service, not only to each other, but out in the world. The 12th house can be trouble in composites, as planets found here frequently undermine the relationship itself.

SYNASTRY AND COMPOSITE CHARTS

While some astrologers may solely rely on synastry charts, they may overlook the transformative power of, say, two introverted individuals mutually boosting each other’s confidence, fostering a newfound sense of extroversion when they are in each other’s presence. However, there are other astrologers who acknowledge and embrace this possibility, understanding that our behaviors can undergo significant transformations in the company of different individuals. Our interactions with others have the potential to evoke profound changes within us. It is through the lens of astrology that we can gain insight into these transformative dynamics. The composite chart serves as a reflection of the unique energy and atmosphere created by the couple. The rising planets in the composite chart play a significant role in shaping how others perceive and interpret the partnership. Thus, the interpretation of a composite chart follows a similar approach as any other chart. The signs within the composite chart provide insights into the underlying mood of the relationship, the planets symbolize the driving forces that propel the union forward, and the houses outline the specific domains where these forces manifest and unfold.

For instance, if the Sun and Saturn were to form an aspect within the couple’s composite chart, it would signify persistent challenges in achieving shared goals and establishing a cohesive sense of identity. It is important to acknowledge that such hurdles are natural and inevitable in relationships. There may come a point where the couple recognizes the limitations that exist within their partnership, discovering boundaries that cannot be surpassed. This realization may bring about a sense of constraint and frustration at times. However, by delving into the individual birth charts, we can gain insights into how each person navigates and copes with these constraints within the relationship.

Astrology, as a tool for self-awareness and understanding, provides valuable lessons for couples embarking on this introspective journey. It teaches us to embrace the fluidity of our behaviors and the transformative power of human connections. Relationships are complex, ever-evolving entities, and astrology offers a framework to explore the nuances, challenges, and growth opportunities present within them. By delving into the depths of our individual charts and the intricate dynamics depicted within the composite chart, we can gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and our connections with others.

As an example of how to read aspects in a composite chart, consider Liz Greene’s Sun-Neptune aspect:

“Most powerful is a composite in which the Sun makes a strong aspect to Neptune, for then the essential goals and meaning of the relationship are coloured by Neptune’s longing for fusion and flight from the pain of the mortal world. Such relationships are often based on shared spiritual or artistic commitment. If this kind of container can be provided, darker Neptunian elements may not prove too great a problem. Where no such container exists, the relationship may require some form of abnegation which, with or without the consent of the individuals, denies the possibility of it being sustained in the world of form. Sometimes the relationship comes into being through shared guilt, or an obligation such as unplanned pregnancy. “ By Liz Greene, Neptune and the Quest for Redemption