The North and South Nodes in astrology are mirror images at exactly 180 degrees on the sky, occupying opposite zodiac signs and astrological houses. They are found 180º from each other on the zodiac wheel, representing the balancing act between two opposite signs and houses. In Vedic astrology, the North and South Nodes, also known as Dragon’s Head and Dragon’s Tail, are opposites in each person’s birth chart, exerting contrary natures.
The lunar nodes in astrology reveal one’s karmic path in this lifetime, while the south node reveals past lives and gifts brought in. The north node shows the new direction, and whatever sign your North Node falls in will almost always be the exact opposite of the sign of your South Node.
The North and South Nodes are naturally opposing points determined by the intersection of the ecliptic of the Sun and Moon. The South Node will always be the opposite sign and degree of the True Node. Circle both of them in your chart and use the interpretations below.
The North node represents the direction we are heading, while the South node reveals your innate gifts and past life. The North node’s medicine for the soul is always held in the opposite side of a birth chart, far away from the South node.
In summary, the North and South Nodes in astrology represent the karmic path, past lives, and gifts brought in by a person. They are mirror images at 180 degrees on the sky, and their positions in the zodiac sign and house are crucial for understanding one’s life purpose.
📹 Differences Between Your Midheaven and North Node Energies ~ Astrology
Two significant points in your astrology chart involve the Midheaven and North Node as each one describes how you are here to …
How often does North and South flip?
The Earth’s magnetic field, which generates the force that generates our planet’s electricity, is constantly changing, causing the location of its north and south poles to shift. This is crucial for navigation and for certain animals like birds, fish, and sea turtles, whose internal compasses use the magnetic field. Some argue that these changes are contributing to global warming and potentially causing catastrophic climate change. However, the science does not support this argument.
The position of Earth’s magnetic north pole was first precisely located in 1831, and since then, it has drifted north-northwest by over 600 miles and increased its forward speed from about 10 miles per year to about 34 miles per year. This gradual shift impacts navigation and must be regularly accounted for, but there is little scientific evidence linking the drifting magnetic poles to climate.
What determines your north and South Node?
The Lunar Nodes are coordinates, not physical objects like planets or asteroids. They are calculated based on the orbits and locations of celestial bodies, like Black Moon Lilith. The Moon spins around Earth like a dreidel, with a slight wobble, and it crosses paths with Earth’s orbit around the Sun at its highest (North Node) and lowest (South Node) points. This slant causes eclipses when the Sun and Moon intersect the Lunar Nodes.
It takes the Moon 18 years to complete a full “nodal orbit”, a full cycle of its own wobbling, different from its 28-day orbit of Earth. The North and South Nodes make a full rotation approximately every 18 years, meaning the Nodes stay in the same zodiac sign for approximately 1. 5 years before switching zodiac signs.
How do I figure out my north and South Node?
The natal chart contains two horseshoe-like symbols: the upright horseshoe (north node) and the upside-down horseshoe (south node). The north node represents the unique direction each individual is called to explore and become. It may be unknown to us, but waiting in that space is fulfillment. As we encounter unknown things, we often stumble, make mistakes, and face challenges. However, these mistakes and challenges are where we find profound growth.
The mundane moments of our human reality remind us that the spiritual realm can only be accessed by sinking into our humanness. Our arrival at a place defines our destiny and purpose, as well as our journey there and who we become in the process.
How often do north and south nodes change?
The North and South Nodes in Vedic astrology represent fate and destiny, with the North Node representing the present and the South Node representing the past. Lunar nodes change signs every year and a half, influencing our birth charts and predicting our future. The nodes also predict eclipses based on personal birth charts and transiting nodes. In Vedic astrology, the North Node is called Ratu (Dragon’s Head) and the South Node is called Ketu (Dragon’s Tail).
A mythological story tells of a demon who tricked the gods into obtaining immortality, causing them to grant him both past (Ketu) and future (Rahu) parts, making him unable to escape himself or his actions.
Why does North Node move backwards?
The Lunar Nodes work with signs opposite to each other, allowing for natural movement in one direction. As the Lunar North Node enters Aries, we are invited to explore its higher expressions and potentials, moving away from the more primal expressions of Libra. Aries, the first of the zodiac, represents the initial introduction into a separate self, an ‘I’. As a sign of fire, it is fuelled with inspiration, passion, desire, and direction. Aries needs freedom, independence, and empowerment to move where guided, create where inspired, and take action based on its own knowing.
Are north and south nodes always opposite?
The North and South Nodes in a birth chart represent the natal Nodes of Destiny, which are found in opposite signs and houses. The North Node in Aries/South Node in Libra represents self-sufficiency, but it’s important to seek support from loved ones. The North Node in Taurus/South Node in Scorpio represents stubbornness and resistance to change. To bring awareness into your life, be more open and evolutionary, and focus on putting your needs first.
What is the North Node South Node opposition?
The nodes in a birth chart represent the direction of a soul’s evolution, with the north node representing the ideal direction and the south node representing past life patterns, baggage, and issues that still need to be processed and released. The north node’s medicine for the soul is held in the opposite side of a birth chart, far away from the south node’s triggers. The rule is to move away from the comfort of the south node and into the new territory of the north node.
As a Buddhist astrologer, it is common for clients to realize that the south node describes outdated worldviews or assumptions that they have carried into life. Implementing the north node fixes will patch the south node bugs. For example, an Aquarius south node person may carry the mentality of an exile who assumes nobody will get them, and to heal this part, their Leo north node suggests stepping into the limelight and stepping into the limelight. This can be uncomfortable, but it is essential for healing and personal growth.
What is the North Node South Node karma?
The South Node, opposite to the North Node, is a sign in an astrological chart that represents the karmic actions experienced in past lives and their influence on future actions. It provides insight into both positive and negative self-qualities, and helps reveal the North Node, which represents the “Karmic Fate” or destiny. The South Node pays homage to the lessons learned and fallen victim to, while the North Node aligns with the destiny. Together, they represent the unfolding of a life path and how one chooses to embrace fate.
A Virgo, born on August 23, 1997, with a Sun in Virgo, a Taurus Moon, and a Capricorn rising, the South Node is in Pisces. To request a birth chart, the date, exact time, and place of birth are required. The South Node is in Pisces, reflecting the Earth signs of the Virgo sun, Taurus moon, and Capricorn rising.
What is the true node in astrology?
Your North Node, also known as your “true node”, is a crucial component in your astrological profile, determining your fate and spiritual purpose. It is associated with karma and is a product of past life experiences. Unlike planets in your birth chart, which represent your traits and habits, your North Node is a point in your chart that indicates your life’s purpose. To understand your North Node’s karma or purpose, you need to understand the qualities and motivations of the sign it’s stationed in.
For instance, if your North Node is in humanitarian Aquarius, your purpose is likely to be serving others and pushing your community towards a progressive future. However, your fate is likely associated with social justice, politics, or community-led nonprofit organizations.
What does the North Node opposite mean in synastry?
In a synastry chart, a North Node opposition signifies a strong connection between the North and South Nodes, fostering inspiration and comfort. However, the relationship may not align with the individual’s comfort zone. North Node opposites born 9 years apart are particularly attractive as they model desired qualities. This is also true for Sun and North Node aspects, as those with their Sun in the North Node sign indicate areas for growth. A North Node trine signifies a strong desire for spiritual growth, making the bond supportive. Both parties are attracted to each other’s similar ideologies and spiritual ideas.
What happens during your nodal opposition?
At age 9, a nodal opposition occurs when the Moon’s nodes reach opposite points in the zodiac, marking the halfway point in the journey of achieving and releasing goals. This period marks a shift in priorities, as we form more complex friendships, become aware of our body image, and care more about others’ opinions. This moment will recur every nine years after lunar nodes return to their starting places, highlighting the importance of balancing our desires and shedding.
At age 12, the Jupiter return occurs every 12 years, when the planet of abundance and wisdom returns to its natal position, imbuing us with a sense of protection and invincibility. These Jupiter returns inspire rapid growth, confidence, and discovery, and can also be physical, as the first Jupiter return coincides with the beginning of breasts and bodies budging and the first period for many with uteri. This initiation into Jupiterian themes of fertility and wisdom is a significant moment in our lives.
📹 What are Rahu and Ketu in under 2 minutes (Animation)
Rahu and Ketu, also known respectively as North and South Lunar Nodes, are common terms that are used frequently in the …
I think I’ve said this before but you are so good with words, Molly! You make a subject as complex as Astrology very simplified for everyone to understand! Like you’ve mentioned before, it’s hard being a light worker and explaining and expressing it to other people without them looking at you like you have ten heads, lol. I always share your articles with people that spark a interest and who try to understand astrology as a whole. Thank you, always. ☺️
Thank you for talking about this Molly. Not many look at this combination. I appreciate it. My eldest child’s Venus is EXACTLY on my north node (which is in Libra in the 5th house) They are supposed to be showing me how to express love in Libra fashion. I have struggled to show them that in all of their 16 years of life and now I am at my nodal reversal and reckoning with the choices I’ve made. I feel so heavy with guilt. I’ve been focused on my artistic self expression as a career path
Thank you Molly this has always confused me! My South Node is conjunct my Midheaven in Leo 10th house and My North Node is Conjunct my IC Aquarius in 4th house. I’ve always heard a lot of astrologer’s say don’t go towards your south node. You explaining that if it’s at the bottom it’s internal makes a little more sense to me! Thank you and thank you for the recommended reading material✨✨✨❤️
I can’t even tell you how timely this is. I really can’t, but this is absolutely perfect for this very day. Molly, are we both from the same Pleiadian StarFam? Wouldn’t even be surprised at this point. My MC is 5° from the United States Rising Sign. And Mars is on my MC… I’m definitely leader and upward evolving energies. My North Node is on the Pleiades at 29°. I think I just had an activation this week. I do now feel and believe I am in fact a Pleiadian StarSeed. It was both You and Starman tarot creator and David Bowie collaborator Davide De Angelis who really helped me realize and remember this. Third house Taurus for this Fomalhaut rising! Love your work – so much. I look up to you, even with all my Mars, that’s absolutely for sure! 🦩🌟🏝️
North node is Scorpio first house and midheaven is Leo in 9th house. I also have four signs in Aries, Jupiter in Pisces in 5th. South node is in Scorpio. My Uranus is in Taurus with my Sun and Mars in Capricorn. Ascendant is in Libra in 1st house with Scorpio. One would think at 82 my life adventure drum would soften its step, not the reality. I appreciate your astrology presentations, thank you.
Hmmm very interesting. I also have a gemini midheaven. North node leo in 11th house. But the sun in the 12th. I am not the typical Leo. I do not want to be the center of attention, I shy away from that. Because it makes me uncomfortable. Human design a 5/2. My husband said you are very good in communicating certain stuff voiceing yourself. And I was like no I’m not. Virgo rising ( critical ). I write poetry that comes to me, but I like to do it perfect ( mercury 12th Virgo ). You explaining this is very clear what I am learning in this life. And also my daughter’s North node is conjunct my south node 🌌🙏. Really learning a lot through this Molly, thank you 🙏
Thanks Molly! Seeing the contrast between these two points was helpful. QUESTION: If I master my 11th house 2nd degree Gemini North Node (Ugh!) will my North Node next lifetime be a continuation of this trajectory? In other words, will my “voice” be more potent next time around? Is mastering our North Nodes collectively a way to enable our worldwide makeover?
Merci Molly! This is such important information. For the longest time I was wondering why people perceived me a certain way, then I realized my midheaven is in Libra and I have a stellium in Cancer in 7th house which is ruled by Libra… Anyway, understanding that our MH/MC is public perception and how we put ourselves out there and Nodes are our deepest selves and our journey into this world is a great way to lean more about ourselves. 💗
Thank you Molly. It is difficult to separate the energies of Midheaven when North node is within orbit. I have watched your articles on Midheaven – it seems you class the Midheaven as 9th-10th house (and I understand it is at the point of the day when the sun is most powerful) but for some of us born in winter this changes the “aperture”. where the ephemeris Midheaven lies at the end of the 10th house. Would you then include more of the 11th house? which is closest to the ephermerical Midheaven or stick to whole sign model. Hopefully this will help us winter-born Astrology lovers. Blessings to you xxc
Merci Molly, My MC in Sag. and North Node in Leo…Have 2 Leo sons and a Spitfire Aries daughter😅 Always been about Truth and also lived and learned out loud for others to learn from…or not. My kids taught me more than anyone…the two legged, Fins, Feathers and Paws alike!🥰😇🙏 Thanks for having the courage to learn outloud….not always easy, Lol…Blessings💜
THANK YOU! I asked last night for a sign on which way to go in my work life. I currently work at a fast food restaurant (they pay really well but ewww) and just got word I got a job at a prestigious hotel in the area, but they pay less than where I’m currently at. I was soo torn… with this information, I was able to see my midheaven was in Sagg in the 10th house. I have kids, so I can’t travel, but I can CERTAINLY work where travel is involved! There must be something more involved here. THANKS FOR BEING MY “SIGN,” GIRL!
I love how you break this down!!! Aries is my mid heaven. The warrior, and I have Chiron in Taurus in the 10th! Now how in the world do you blend that with the 12th house cancer nn conjunct the bumblebee hive cluster?! Lol 😂 sometimes I wonder if I’m making it too hard on myself, ya know?! 🤣🤣🤣 I absolutely love how you break things down! Thank you so much!!! 💜💜💜💜
Thank you for sharing your knowledge. I’ve studied astrology as a hobby since I was around 9 years old. My NN is Aquarius in 1H. I wondered why so many men and women with Aquarius moon and Venus people were drawn to me. I don’t quite understand what they’re teaching me and the qualities of Leo are not familiar or comfortable to me. I do want to understand these aspects more. I wonder if my MC 10 degrees Scorpio squaring my NN and subsequent SN creates confusion? I’m very private and hate for people to even look at me. At work I’m highly respected (analyst work) but it’s hard to have the most visible part of your life want to consistently bury itself in the sand. Not sure if you consider Lilith but according to my chart this is also conjunct my MC.
I have MC in 10H Pluto Libra ♎️, 10 H NN ♏️ scorpio 3deg. I have 12 H ♐️stellium with mars, sun, merc, neptune, 27 deg ♐️I’m workaholic as a Nurse. 1H Capricorn ♑️ Venus, 5H Jupiter and Lilith in there. I love traveling, indulge with massages, great food, adventures and. I’m kinda materialistic. Love perfumes, gems, jewelries and diff hobbies and end up owning 2 houses. Spiritual and material world is push and pull to me. I love isolation to reenergize and work hard to take care of sick people.
Hi Molly, have really been loving your articles. ❤️ I gifted myself an astrology reading for my birthday last year and that was the first time someone addressed my midheaven. It’s a very auspicious 29 degrees in Pisces in the 10th house. My north node is in Taurus I believe 18 degrees in the 11th house. I’d appreciate any insights 🙂
North node in leo 8th and scorpio midheaven conjunct uranus in scorpio 😬😆 I tend to trigger people in various ways positive and negative. People seem to love to project their darkness and wounds onto me to transmute but i can’t which i no longer recieve and try to do their work and mirror and give it back to them with understanding that it’s a wound they need to heal. I do have alot of psychic and intuitive abilities that have made people feel intimidated even though i am not an intimidating person. I am a bit of a dark horse in appearance,just feels protective to me. My issues with leo north node in the 8th is trying to keep the desire to bond and be friends with everyone to a minimum because i feel their souls essence which Led to alot of issues of taking on their pain. As well as being severely empathic, it’s been one unusual lifetime so far 😆 now just learning to have fun and play.
My Sun, Rising, Neptune, Uranus, Mars, Mercury, Black Moon Lilith and 1st House are all in Capricorn. Pluto in Scorpio, 8th House in Leo then Midheaven in Scorpio. Trying to figure out how to make ppl feel more comfortable around me while not getting out of my flow and zone. Everything from admiration, secret admiration and envy lol, 11th House in Scorpio.
My ascendant and south node is in Cancer My north node is 29 deg Capricorn in 7th house My medium coeli Aries 25°40’40 which is my Midheaven I think. Anyway I got told many years ago that because I don’t have a planet in Aries much of my success will come later in my life. Of course I tried to prove this wrong and I failed. Thank you for another awesome article Molly !!
Thank you, Molly. I learn so much from your articles. This helps as I have Pluto conjunct my NN in Virgo in my 11th house, and Pluto is transiting back and forth over my natal Saturn at 27 degrees of Capricorn in my 4th House. So Pluto is “helping” me by changing my career. My MH is conjunct my Mars at 7 degrees of Cancer. I continue to seek the right path and not go just go back to my former line of work. I don’t want to go through this multiple times! I remain a student for life.
Haha I wasn’t sure how natal placement worked for these two either until now, thank you goddess. My MH 27° PoF 15° Nep 04° NN 02° n Jup 01° are all in scorpio 9th house. A very old karmic connection has her south node on my Sun. We finished our last phase together this lifetime. Higher learning through the deepest transformations is how interpret it.
The main reason I started perusal your article was you showed the chart and it was way-much easier to follow along!!! You took it away, I’m bummed! How about a split screen?, cause I like your insights as well. It’s so helpful for us aspiring to deepen our understanding, it makes every article a teaching experience!!! A HUGE BIG PLUS….thank you Molly. …as they say, a picture’s worth a thousand words.
Thanks so much for everything you share. I’m wondering if you could please give an indication of the orb that should be used with the nodes? E.g. if my north node is at 15 Virgo is it likely to be meaningful with another person if their moon is at 15 Virgo exactly or would a 10 Virgo moon also have an effect?