The sign of Virgo is ruled by Mercury. Physically it is related to the digestive system. It is said to have a feminine nature, and is therefore more reactive in its energy. As an Earth sign, it is connected with material things and practical manifestation, relating to work, the body and organisation principle. As a Mutable sign it is adaptable - and this manifests as a talent for discrimination and analysis.
Planets in this sign express themselves in a perfectionistic way, and give rise to a tendency to both criticism and self-criticism. There is a drive to work hard and a strong motivation to be helpful and of service to others. The work principle is exalted, and there is a need to organise people socially in relation to work. There is a tendency to analyse everything and compartmentalise information. The rational mind is dominant, and greater balance could be achieved if the ability to allow fantasy and irrational impulses could be cultivated.
The main challenges to your identity come when changes arise in your environment - whether it is personal health, in the home or in your working life. It is at these times that you learn to use your discriminative judgement to refine and clear out impurities in one form or another. You have a particularly well-developed critical sense and strong powers of analysis, and these can be your tool for personal development. This means overcoming a tendency to be self-critical, and giving yourself the credit you deserve for being of assistance to others. To attain harmony in partnership matters you must also avoid being critical of the partner. You can be too busy and too involved in the everyday running of things, and this can evoke a passive state in the partner. Being a perfectionist, you tend to end up doing all the work in the home yourself. If you do not set limits for help, you will be taken advantage of.
Symbol: Virgin
Ruler:Mercury
Colour: Navy Blue, Brown
Metal: Nickel
Gem: Sardonyx