One of the most common aspect patterns found in the natal chart is known as a ‘T-square’ or ‘T-cross’. This is made up of an opposition and two square aspects, which creates a red triangle. Red alerts us that this figure is full of energy and the triangle has a creative dynamic motivation. In Astrology/Psychology this aspect pattern is called the ‘efficiency triangle’. However, from my own experience with clients and from having one in my own history, one goes through a lot of frustration before this figure can be used effectively! This, however, may be its purpose and intent.
Giving the opposition to the quality of Saturn and the motivation of the Square with Mars; no wonder this figure can cause frustration. The red aspects are ‘active energy’, and this triangle gives a person a huge inner drive of self-motivation to achieve and get things done. Often there is little to show for our efforts or the results are disappointing. This can leave us disheartened and discouraged. However, it can create a change or at least the awareness that we need.
the focal planet
The focal planet is the vertex of the triangle. This is a tension point where stress can be experienced. However, it can provide the motivation to further develop the energy of the planet, for example by developing a new talent or strengthening a specific characteristic. The house in which it is located is the area of life where it is released and expressed. This will create challenges for the individual due to both the squares and the tension of the opposition. The opposite sign of the apex planet can indicate an area of vulnerability; however, this can be overcome by developing the qualities of the opposite sign.
find your purpose
We always need to look at the signs, planets and houses involved in evaluating any aspect in our charts. However, as I want to draw attention to the purpose of the aspect, looking at the cardinal, fixed, or mutable modes of your T-square may give you some clues.
Cardinal
The T-square has an innate cardinal energy. The energies involved are bound to be used and developed. If this combination is in the cardinal signs of Aries, Cancer, Libra and Capricorn, then this impulse will be doubly active. Those with this T-square might be inclined to go after what they want. It gives a lot of vitality, drive and assertiveness. This can keep one on the go, busy, or where it may seem like we are in a hurry. There may also be a tendency to overdo things by trying to achieve too much too soon, especially if Aries is involved. If you have this type of pattern on your chart, you may need to learn to structure the energy, using it more constructively. Perhaps learning to be patient, compromise, and evaluate your actions will help you convert this energy into efficiency.
A fixed T square
A T-square in the fixed signs of Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, and Aquarius would give a person strong determination, willpower, and stubbornness. As fixed signs are all about values and security, those with this aspect pattern would cling to whatever made them feel secure. The drive to retain everything they owned could be a powerful trait. Persistence in pursuing their goals can make them appear ruthless at times. Suppressed feelings and holding on to harmful, negative emotions can cause stress and illness. Something will have to give with this T-square and it may be the focal planet when the energy is released or exploded. Driven by their security needs and the frustration they can cause, this aspect pattern could force them to take another look at their values. When working efficiently, this energy could be used to build something stable and secure in one’s life.
The mutable T-square
The mutable signs of Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, and Pisces tend to accumulate knowledge that is usually enthusiastically passed on to others. In this aspect pattern, their minds could be in constant flux seeking and gathering information from everywhere. A restless mind that actively seeks new stimuli, as boredom can easily set in. The nervous system could be affected, making them very nervous. Although flexibility and adaptability can be an asset, if used negatively they can lack direction, be highly indecisive, and could appear unreliable to others. What could be beneficial for this T-square is to find a subject or a cause that can absorb all this mental energy. A mental challenge that will focus the mind. Finding the proper channel will bring more discipline to this mutable energy.
Here’s a vital clue
This applies to all T-Squares. Look at the opposite sign of the vertex planet, the one not involved in the aspect pattern. Developing the attributes and qualities of this sign can help to use this pattern more “efficiently”. This may also be the intention of this aspect, as developing the opposite number balances the psyche. This missing signal is worth investigating
Having a T square in the birth chart can give a person dynamic energy. Each of the different modes of cardinal, fixed or mutable will need to find the right channels before this becomes an ‘efficiency triangle’.
