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"As above, so below" is an often heard motto in astrology. Can an individual's inborn traits be influenced by the constantly shifting energy fields of the orbiting planets? If natal charts are valid, Jupiter's position deserves study, for the giant planet is said to influence some of the best life has to offer.

Zeus was king of the gods to the Greeks. He became Jupiter or Jove to the Romans and from his name we get the word jovial. The Hindu name for Jupiter is guru, indicating a guide. These two terms sum up a great deal of what Jupiter is about: all things joyous, fun, and merry, but at the same time, concerned for wisdom and what is ethical and moral.

Jupiter's keyword is expansion. Bigger, better, more, richer; the spirit of "too much is never enough" defines Jupiter's desires. Everything has two sides, however, and the flip side of the jolly planet descends into greed, gluttony, drunkenness, sloth and all manner of excessive self-indulgence.

Old Jupiter cares about more than the party boy life. His craving for the best extends to the highest aspirations of humanity. Truth, wisdom, tolerance, higher education, expansion of the mind, justice and religion all fall into Jupiter's realm. Go overboard on these interests and you get misguided idealism, and a boastful, over-inflated ego. Publishing, long trips, animals, judges, and sports are part of Jupiter's area, too.

Which side dominates in your individual chart? That depends on the placement of Jupiter in terms of sign and house, as well as its aspect in relation to other planets. In the right sign and house and in good aspect to other planets, the best side of Jupiter will be manifested. With less fortunate placements, the more negative traits come out, and more effort is needed to bring about a positive reality.

In Sagittarius, a sign which Jupiter rules, it lets loose and expresses its best flamboyant inclinations. It could indicate a potential sports star. Restricted in the sign of Virgo, Jupiter might lead someone to pursue humanitarian work in a quiet way calling for discipline and perfectionism, perhaps in medical research.

Those people who remain optimistic in the face of hardship, the people who always give unselfishly, and those who fight for justice for all are exemplifying Jupiter's attributes. So are lottery winners and highly evolved religious figures.

Distortions of Jupiter's influence show up in alcoholics, food addicts and lottery winners who are broke a year later.

Keep in mind that there's a lot

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