astrologia
Elements
The elements of the Western tradition are four: Fire, Earth, Air, Water. The theory was formalised by Empedocles in the 5th century BC and taken up by Aristotle as a foundation of ancient physics and Hippocratic medicine. Through medieval and Renaissance alchemy, the elements entered Western esoteric traditions, particularly astrology and tarot.
Qualities and signs
Fire (hot, dry): Aries, Leo, Sagittarius; action, drive, passion. Earth (cold, dry): Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn; concreteness, stability. Air (hot, moist): Gemini, Libra, Aquarius; thought, word, relationship. Water (cold, moist): Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces; emotions, intuition. The three sets of signs sharing one element are called "triplicities".
Four elements in tarot
The four suits of the minor arcana correspond to the four elements: Wands = Fire; Cups = Water; Swords = Air; Pentacles/Coins = Earth. This association, codified by the Golden Dawn in the late 19th century, is today the most widespread in modern Western cartomancy.
FAQ
How many elements are there in Chinese traditions?
Five: Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, Water (Wu Xing). The Chinese system does not match the Greek one and has its own interaction logics (cycles of generation and control).
Is Ether a fifth element?
In Aristotelian and Renaissance tradition, yes: ether or quintessence was the subtle matter of the heavens. It does not correspond to any zodiac sign.
Can I use the elements for self-exploration?
Yes. The dominant element test in the test section helps you recognise which one is most present in your current profile.