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Taurus
The Bull
Taurus, (Greek: Ταύρο [Távros], Latin for “bull”) is the second astrological sign of the zodiac and is represented by the bull. People born between April 20 and May 20 are said to have this zodiac sign. Taurus is one of the oldest zodiac signs and has a rich history dating back to ancient civilizations. Taurus is one of the four fixed signs, along with Leo, Scorpio, and Aquarius. Fixed signs are said to have a stable and dependable nature, and Taurus is no exception. People born under this sign are known for their practicality, reliability, and determination.
History
The origins of Taurus can be traced back to ancient Sumeria, where the constellation was associated with the god Anu. In Greek mythology, Taurus was linked to Zeus, who transformed himself into a white bull to abduct the princess Europa. The constellation was also associated with the goddess Demeter, who was often depicted holding a sheaf of wheat, which is a symbol of the Taurus constellation.
Astronomical Properties
Taurus is one of the largest constellations in the sky and is visible in both the northern and southern hemispheres. It is located between the constellations Aries and Gemini and is easily recognizable by the V-shaped cluster of stars known as the Hyades.
The brightest star in Taurus is Aldebaran, which is located at the eye of the bull. Aldebaran is an orange giant star that is 65 light-years away from Earth. It is one of the 20 brightest stars in the night sky and has a diameter that is 44 times larger than the sun.
Another notable feature of Taurus is the Pleiades star cluster, which is located above the bull’s head. The Pleiades, also known as the Seven Sisters, is a group of young stars that are only a few hundred million years old. They are located about 440 light-years away from Earth and are easily visible with the naked eye.
Taurus is also home to several deep-sky objects, including the Crab Nebula, which is the remnant of a supernova explosion that occurred in 1054 AD. The nebula is located in the bull’s horn and is one of the most studied objects in the sky.
Astrological Properties of Taurus
Planetary Rulers
Element: Earth
Earth signs are a practical energy that is concerned with things of the material world. They operate most comfortably through the physical senses. People with strong earth placements are practical and excel at dealing with the mundane, finances, and business matters.
Modality: Fixed
Fixed signs are conservative in nature and are very resistant to change. It is a steadfast and supportive energy. People with strong fixed placements are good at being relied upon to see things through, but may lack the ability to take initiative. With partial exception for Aquarius, because their co-ruler Uranus lends credence to their ability to be one step ahead of everyone else.