strik-ing with a ray
/ˌsteɪʃəˌnɛri ˈrɛtroʊˌɡreɪd/
A Hellenistic term for a planet casting its aspectual “ray” to another planet, thereby impacting it. It most often refers to a planet striking another by sextile, square, trine, or opposition, with the influence strengthened when the aspect is close by degree or applying. In discussions of maltreatment or bonification, malefics or benefics “strike” a planet with their rays to harm or help it.
In Hellenistic astrology, planets are said to “regard” each other by sign and to “strike with a ray” when their aspect exerts a tangible influence—especially when the aspect is exact or within orb. The planet that casts the ray is the active agent; the planet struck is conditioned by it. Hard aspects (square, opposition) from malefics can signify affliction, while benefics striking by harmonious aspects (sextile, trine) can elevate or protect. Strength is modified by factors such as application versus separation, right/left-sidedness (superiority/overcoming), sect, and reception. Students should note this term frequently appears in doctrines of maltreatment and assistance, where identifying which planet is doing the striking—and how—helps judge the quality and force of its effect on the planet receiving the ray.