Answering Questions by Chart
Horary astrology is a branch of Western astrology dedicated entirely to answering specific questions. A chart is cast for the exact moment a sincere question is understood by the astrologer, and the symbolism of that chart — planet positions, significators, aspects, dignities — is read to answer the question. Horary has been practiced since at least the Hellenistic period and reached its apex with William Lilly's Christian Astrology (1647), still the definitive textbook of the tradition.
How a Horary Chart Works
The astrologer identifies the significators: the planet ruling the Ascendant represents the querent (asker); the planet ruling the house associated with the topic represents the quesited (thing asked about). The relationship between these significators — applying aspects, dignities, mutual receptions — describes whether and how the matter will resolve. A Moon applying to conjoin the quesited's significator in a dignified sign is a classic indicator of a positive outcome.
Is Horary for You?
Horary is ideal for specific, pressing questions: "Will I get this job?" "Where is the lost object?" "Will this relationship lead to marriage?" It requires a sincere question — not idle curiosity — and a solid grounding in traditional rulerships, dignities, and aspect doctrine. Many modern astrologers who study traditional methods find horary the most immediately practical branch of the tradition. For study, start with Lilly's Christian Astrology or Deborah Houlding's Skyscript.co.uk resources.