Weakened by Solar Proximity
A planet is under the beams when it is within 17° of the Sun but more than 8°30' away closer than the generally visible range but not as close as the severely weakened combust position. Under-the-beams planets are considered mildly debilitated in traditional astrology: their light is obscured by the Sun's proximity, their significations less clearly expressed, and their effective strength reduced. This applies to all planets except the Moon, which has its own proximity conditions.
Solar Proximity Conditions
| Condition | Distance from Sun | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Cazimi | 0° to 0°17' | Maximally empowered |
| Combust | 0°17' to 8°30' | Severely weakened |
| Under the Beams | 8°30' to 17° | Mildly weakened |
| Outside beams | Over 17° | No solar impairment |
Practical Implications
Under-the-beams planets are most significant in horary astrology, where they indicate a significator that is weakened or not fully able to act on the querent's behalf. In natal astrology, planets under the beams or combust (especially Mercury and Venus, which are never far from the Sun) should be interpreted with awareness of their reduced ability to operate independently. The closer to cazimi, the more empowered; the closer to the outer edge of combustion, the less severely affected. Context always matters a combust Jupiter in a day chart may still be effective through its natural benefic qualities.