Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam (3.26.38)

 

— Thomas Browne

 

When we first examine the physical form and behavior of fire, we can conclude that fire produces warmth and heat, is expansive, provides light and color, and transforms matter into other physical states—like when burned wood turns into ashes. A core principle in hermetic teachings is: “Fire is the agent of purification. Through fire, the impure is consumed, and the pure is revealed.” This is a metaphorical explanation of the capacity for transformational processes.

Fire works in the digestive system as well as in the grey matter of the brain, where it manifests as intelligence. Body temperature, digestion, thinking processes, and vision are functions of the bodily fire. Fire, or “Agni,” is radiant energy and is present in the body as the flame of attention.

In a more subtle sense, fire represents the light of insight or knowledge—the “seeing” not only with the eyes but also with the mind and the heart. Psychologically, fire enables us to generate and follow our visions with willpower. It makes us courageous, dynamic, and active, and therefore represents masculine energy—one that performs and has a significant influence in the world. The inner fire is a potential. It can either burn out through excessive passion or continue to smolder, providing the individual with the energy needed to follow their inspirations, even while grappling with the challenges of a harsh life.

A warm hearth fire of the heart provides generosity, kindness, and warmth. It gives without expecting anything in return.

 

 

Fire-dominant individuals are characterized by a fast metabolism and often feel hungry, even though they tend to eat a lot. They usually maintain a lean body unless there are underlying metabolic disturbances. These individuals are constantly on the move—driven, active, and ambitious—always striving for more, even after achieving what others might consider enough. Their inner fire makes them courageous, heroic, and determined. Intellectually, they are sharp, curious, intuitive, and logical, often learning quickly and acting with purpose despite sometimes appearing restless or scattered. They are known for being strong-minded and opinionated, and often have a fair complexion, which makes them more sensitive to sunlight. Because they possess so much inner warmth, they require less external heat or fire.

 

The Fire element is obviously associated with the Sun—in astrology, the Sun represents the Self and the essence of a person. It is towards the Sun that the individual is ideally drawn throughout life—towards its innermost light. But what is the characteristic of this innermost essence? It is so obvious that we often lose track of it:

The Sun represents the sovereign essence of the soul—the individualized spark of divine light that animates one’s being. It is not the personality shaped by circumstance, but the unchanging core, timeless and radiant, through which the soul seeks to express its unique dharma (life path/destined role). This inner self is personal, not in an egoic sense, but in its intimate connection to purpose, vitality, and authentic self-expression. It feels whole when aligned with its path, and its energy, though subtle, is inexhaustible—like a light that cannot be extinguished.

After all, what could be more captivating than someone who fully expresses their essence and follows their inner inspirations?

The sign and house in which the Sun is placed reveal how this inner light expresses itself—shaped by the qualities of the sign, the nature of the house, and the aspects formed by other planets.

The condition of Leo, the sign of the Sun, will additionally reveal the state of the Self (Sun) in a chart. Leo’s characteristic is fiery, masculine, a natural authority when unafflicted, generous, and self-confident.

In a certain sense, I dare to say that the fire of the Sun- a masculine planet, since it radiates from within- carries a feminine quality.

As the Sun represents the Self and the Moon represents Consciousness, both perceive the interactions caused by the five elements, the five senses, and their corresponding starry planets: Jupiter (Ether), Saturn (Air), Mars (Fire), and Venus (Water). The Sun and Moon, the King and Queen in the kingdom of Vedic astrology, thus hold a special place in the hierarchy of elemental interactions.

 

Mars, too, is a fiery planet, but with a different kind of energy. Mars represents outward-directed fire, the fire of action, determination, and drive. He is the warrior, the protector, the fearless one who breaks through obstacles and pursues a vision with unwavering focus. Without Mars, we would lack the impulse to act, to overcome resistance, and to boldly walk our path. Mars provides willpower, dynamism, initiative, and the inner force that compels us to follow our goals—even when the road is difficult. He is the burning fire that pushes us forward. The outward-directed fire is associated with the masculine principle.

 

– Franz Bardon

 

The signs of Mars are Aries and Scorpio. (In western Astrology Pluto is considered the ruler of Scorpio. However, in this context, we are focusing on the Vedic tradition, although I personally also like to include the outer planets in readings).

Aries, as a fire sign, embodies masculine outward energy. Aries is courageous, initiating, and visionary, yet sometimes prone to what can be described as fickleness. They often burn with enthusiasm for new ideas or projects, only to lose interest and quickly shift their focus when the next exciting opportunity arises. This quick change of interest is often driven by their intense passion and desire for quick results. However, Aries is also known for its independence and its constant search for personal freedom. As the pioneer of the zodiac, Aries loves to be the first to explore new paths, though their energy may sometimes be fleeting.

Scorpio, on the other hand, while influenced by Mars, carries a different and deeper kind of fire. Though a water sign, Scorpio’s fire manifests in an introverted, transformative way. Scorpio possesses exceptional willpower and determination. It is incredibly goal-oriented and capable of maintaining focus, even in times of crisis. Scorpio is given a powerful layer of transformative energy, providing the sign the capacity for deep regeneration. Scorpio can develop great emotional resilience and an almost “magical” ability to heal and renew itself, continuously transforming and emerging stronger from challenges.

 

– Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam 3.26.41

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