What is Ophiuchus in Astrology?
Ophiuchus is a constellation that has been referred to as the Serpent bearer. It has often been at the center of debate as to its reference in terms of being referred to as a constellation or an actual zodiac sign. This is because some have referred to Ophiuchus as the thirteenth forgotten constellation.
Those born between the dates of November 30th to December 18th are said to be born under the constellation of Ophiuchus. For those that view it as a zodiac sign, it is the only zodiac sign which is based on a real person. Like all other zodiac signs, Ophiuchus does not have a polar opposite. Ophiuchus has often been used in Sidereal astrology as a thirteenth of the zodiac.
Where is Ophiuchus?
Ophiuchus spans 848 square degrees in the area. It can be located northwest of the center of the Milky Way. Ophiuchus lies to the north of the star Antares. Antares is the bright red star located within the constellation of Scorpius the Scorpion. It can help you find Ophiuchus in the night sky. You can look for Ophiuchus a short distance to the north of Antares in any year.
However, it has been reported that Ophiuchus is best viewed in July around 9 pm. Ophiuchus is home to a number of star clusters. It contains Barnard’s Star, the second-closest star to Earth, about 6 light-years away. This red dwarf star is very difficult to find with the naked eye. It also houses Kepler’s Star of Supernova.
The star Rasalhague makes up the head of Ophiuchus and is its brightest star. Rasalhague means, “Head of the Snake Charmer” in Arabic. The two stars, Eta Ophiuchi and Zeta Ophiuchi mark the knees of Ophiuchus.
Ophiuchus Zodiac Sign Personality
Those born under the constellation of Ophiuchus were born between the zodiac signs of Scorpio and Sagittarius. This makes these individuals possess the character traits of both Scorpio and Sagittarius. This can make those born under the dates of Ophiuchus possess similar character traits that “on the cusp” of other zodiac signs exhibit.
Those born under Ophiuchus are secretive, intense, passionate, and thirsty for knowledge. They can also be very sexually magnetic and desirable individuals. They will often seem to have an air of mystery surrounding them. Negatively, they can be jealous, possessive, and overly authoritarian. They are open to change and are true visionaries.
Ophiuchans are known to wear colorful and bright colors and have a flamboyant flair. It has been said that Ophiuchus is best matched with Cancer, Pisces, and Taurus. Ophiuchans are said to be least compatible with Leo, Aries, and Gemini.
Ophiuchus as a Symbol
The Snake is often associated with doctors, health care, and healing. In Greek lore, Ophiuchus is said to be Asclepius, a physician who created a potion that gives humans access to immortality. You can see the Staff of Asclepius in the symbolism of the World Health Organization. Some see this as paying tribute to the Serpent Bearer.
