Cap-ri-corn
/ˈkæp.rɪ.kɔːrn/
The tenth sign of the zodiac, symbolized by the Sea-Goat. Capricorn is a receptive, cardinal earth sign and the domicile of Saturn. It marks the winter solstice in the Northern Hemisphere and is the site of Mars's exaltation, the Moon's detriment, and Jupiter's fall.
As a cardinal earth sign ruled by Saturn, Capricorn initiates action in the material world with discipline, structure, and long-term ambition. Its symbolism is linked to career, public reputation, authority, government, and the patient pursuit of tangible goals. This is the December Solstice and in the Northern Hemisphere the light begins to increase and the days start getting longer. In the Southern Hemisphere this is Summer Solstice and the light is starting to wane as the days grow shorter. The Sea-Goat emblem also represents this dual nature: the goat's ability to climb to great heights through perseverance, and the fish's tail connecting it to deep, ancient wisdom. For an astrology student, the planetary dignities in Capricorn reveal its core principles. Mars is exalted here because its drive and energy are channeled effectively through Capricorn's strategic and disciplined framework. Conversely, the Moon is in its detriment, as its need for emotional comfort and nurturing is often suppressed in favor of duty and responsibility. Jupiter's fall signifies that the planet of faith and expansion is constrained by Capricorn's pragmatic, cautious, and sometimes pessimistic focus on limitations and hard reality.