T-Squares: Natal and Relational

The t-square is an aspect pattern involving two planets in opposition, which are squared by a third planet. The aspects contained in the configuration are highly energetic and conflicting. The relevant planets usually occupy the same quadruplicity and emphasize the inherent dilemma of the cardinal, fixed or mutable quality in the individual birth chart. The configuration can lead to great accomplishment when greater effort is applied to directing the planets. Some t-squares consist of more than 3 planets and the astrologer views this as a particularly strong feature in the horoscope. Oppositions reflect being pulled in two directions, and with a t-square the personality is pulled in three areas that all challenging one another for immediate expression. With oppositions there is element compatibility and there can be a compromise reached if planets, signs and houses learn to adapt to one another. This is very much like a relationship between two people. However, the apex planet is the most antagonistic in the configuration.

The apex planet can often be over-emphasised by sign and house in the individual personality. T-squares are great driving forces in the natal chart and create action. The cardinal square (planets in Aries, Cancer, Libra, and Capricorn) is the most ambitious of the t-squares, and it is often good for these people to start their own business and to really drive the energy constructively. They often move towards achievement and are good at getting things started. The fixed t-square (planets in Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, and Aquarius) is driven by intensity, focus and will-power. These types are less likely to give up and keep going until they reach their goal. Mutable t-squares (planets in Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius and Pisces) are more suited to the learning environment and they have great adaptability, creativity and drive to learn about their environment.

Although the t-square is a common configuration there are still many people who do not have a t-square in their natal chart. However, if we have a natal opposition, a t-square can still be formed through our relationships with others. For example, if we have an opposition with our Moon in Taurus and Uranus in Scorpio, anyone with planets in Aquarius or Leo around those degrees, will form a t-square. Therefore, the relationship puts added pressure on our natal opposition. This isn’t always necessarily a bad thing, and can be extremely positive in terms of growth and self-development.

Sometimes the relationship can become challenging and stressful and it depends on how we react to pressure. Likewise, we can look to our composite charts too, and see if any of these planets ‘trigger’ our natal oppositions. In this example, the relationship drives us to develop further and provides that added tension. If we have a t-square then often someone comes in to ‘fill the empty leg’ of the t-square, and this would be the house and sign opposite the apex planet. In this case, it would create a grand square configuration. It is worth looking through our synastry charts and noting these configurations and see how that individual drives our self-development or stresses us out! The same method can be used with planets in trine, but wouild show more ease. When looking for these aspect patterns, look further than the natal chart and look at relationships.