Pisces (♓︎) is the twelfth and final astrological sign in the zodiac. Represented by two fish swimming in opposite directions, Pisces is a mutable water sign. It spans from February 19 to March 20 under the tropical zodiac. In ancient Greek mythology, the symbol of the fish is associated with the ichthyocentaurs, who aided Aphrodite during her birth from the sea.
Astrology Background
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While the astrological sign Pisces traditionally occupied the ecliptic longitude of 330° to 0°, precession has led to its overlap with the constellation Aquarius. The First Point of Aries, which marks the vernal equinox, now falls within Pisces. Though the constellation lacks prominent stars, it holds significance in astrology.
According to Ptolemy, Alpha Piscium represents the point where the two fish's tails are knotted together. The astrological symbol depicts the fish captured by a string, symbolizing the duality within Piscean nature. Ruled by Jupiter (or Neptune in modern astrology), Pisces is the mutable water sign.
Mythology
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Pisces is associated with various deities, including Poseidon/Neptune, Aphrodite, Eros, Typhon, Vishnu, and the Sumerian goddess Inanna. In early mythology, Pisces appears as the fish into which Aphrodite and her son Eros transformed to escape the monster Typhon. These myths highlight the significance of the fish symbol in Pisces.
In modern mythology and religion, the story of Christ's birth is linked to Pisces as the age transitioned from Aries to Pisces. Christian symbols often incorporate the astrological fish symbol, indicating the beginning of the Christian religion. Saint Peter is considered the apostle of the Piscean sign.
In the Arts
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Pisces holds cultural significance in various art forms. In Dante's Purgatorio, Venus exalted in Pisces represents divine love. The 15th-century artwork by Luca Della Robbia depicts Pisces in the "Plate with the Month of February." Elizabeth Barrett Browning's poetic work also references Pisces, with her beautiful description of fantastic fishes floating in calm waters.
In Popular Culture
Pisces has made its way into popular culture through various mediums. In the comic book series "Avengers," the supervillain group Zodiac features a member named Pisces, characterized by underwater abilities. In the film "The Fish That Saved Pittsburgh," the basketball team's fortunes change after embracing astrology and recruiting Pisces players. Pisces is also mentioned in songs by Nirvana, The Smashing Pumpkins, and George Harrison.
Gallery
See Also
Explore more about Pisces and its significance in astrology.
- The dictionary definition of Pisces at Wiktionary
- Media related to Pisces at Wikimedia Commons
- Quotations related to Pisces at Wikiquote
- pisces zodiac Sign
- Warburg Institute Iconographic Database - Images of Pisces
Remember to approach astrology with curiosity and an open mind, appreciating the cultural and historical significance it holds.
