The Grand Trine

For this topic I want to explore the astrological meaning of the grand trine. This subject has become more of an interest to me since my son was born with a Grand Earth Trine. Reading up on the various theories of this particular configuration has left me at times conflicted in the many different interpretations of this supposedly “blessed” astrological pattern. What I want to konw is whether such an harmonious grouping of planets in one element greatly benefit’s the individual’s life. Astrological literature tells us that what was once thought to be a beneficial chart configuration in the natal chart can describe an individual who is some respects takes a lazy approach to his affairs.

I have always enjoyed the research aspect of astrology and I like discovering the answers for myself. Basically, a Grand Trine is a triangular aspect pattern involving three or more planets separated by an angle of 120 degrees each. The planets in the signs are in the same triplicity and due to the harmonious nature of the trine aspect, the planets cooperate in an easy flowing manner. According to traditional textbooks the grand trine is seen as an extremely fortunate asset, implicating special talents, favourable circumstances and good opportunities. Modern Astrologers have come to view the lack of tension in the grand trine as an indication that the native can have a certain inertia or laziness present because there is no real impetus that pushes the individual into action.

There are four elements in astrology consisting of Fire, Earth, Air and Water, and thus there are four types of Grand Trines which can be formed in the birth chart. Where we gain in abundance we also create an imbalance and lopsidedness in the personality. Finding chart examples for this topic was easy, which means that the Grand Trine configuration appears frequently enough to say that it is not an ‘uncommon’ aspect. I don’t fall into the thinking that Grand Trines deny success, but much depends on the rest of the chart. I don’t think that consciously we seek to develop a trine any further, and as the saying goes “If it aint broke don’t fix it”. In the next part I will begin looking at the Fire Grand Trine.