The First House, also known as the Ascendant, Horoscope, Eastern Angle, or Rising Sign, governs the life, health, and physical body of the person born. It tells us about:
- Their appearance, stature, and body type
- The temperament of their body and natural constitution
- Their mental qualities (which follow the body’s temperament, as Galen noted)
- The shape, color, and features of the face
This house is called the “Ascendant” because any planet reaching its cusp (beginning point) is seen rising into visibility on the eastern horizon at that time.
Planets in the First House
Saturn (♄)
Saturn here causes difficulties in both body and mind. It brings depression, delays, and hardships. If poorly placed (especially close to the Ascendant degree), it may shorten life or make life full of sorrow and suffering. The native may also have physical deformities unless Saturn is in a sign ruled by Jupiter or Venus, which can soften its effects. If Saturn is far from the exact Ascendant degree, the person may live longer, but life will be full of pain and struggle.
Jupiter (♃)
Jupiter in the First House, especially when well dignified, gives a long life, strong health, and a handsome appearance. It indicates someone who is wise, kind, honest, fair, and religious. They are well-liked and naturally fortunate.
Mars (♂)
Mars in the First House, when weak or in a sign where it lacks essential dignity, suggests a short and troubled life. The person may be quarrelsome, reckless, wasteful, and poor, and might suffer injuries, especially to the head and face. If Mars is well dignified, however, it can bring military success and bravery, though the person will still be intense and aggressive in temperament.
Sun (☉)
The Sun here gives honor and leadership, particularly if placed in its exaltation (Aries). It shows someone who will gain authority, status, and wealth, especially through rulers or influential people. It gives a long life, strength, and dignity.
Venus (♀)
Venus in the First House makes the native attractive, charming, and inclined to pleasure and beauty. They enjoy music, perfumes, social gatherings, and luxurious living. They are usually in good health, live long lives, and are well-liked, especially by women. They’re graceful, polite, and drawn to artistic or sensual pursuits.
Mercury (☿)
Mercury rising gives a clever, articulate, and curious mind. The person will likely have strong memory, be skilled in business, mathematics, writing, and languages—especially if Mercury is in good aspect with Mars. If afflicted by Mars (square or opposition), it may cause head injuries and a tendency toward deceit or theft. But if Mercury is dignified or favorably aspected by Saturn, it shows wisdom, deep thinking, and inventive brilliance.
Moon (☽)
The Moon here makes the person restless, changeable, and prone to travel. Their mind is wandering and active, often involved in trade, negotiations, or business. Physically, they are likely to be plump and moist in temperament (phlegmatic), often with spots or moles on the face. They can rise in social rank, gain favors from royalty or high positions, and acquire wealth that way.
North Node (☊)
The North Node (Dragon’s Head) in the Ascendant brings honors, wealth, and powerful allies, often through religious or spiritual institutions. It gives a fortunate and influential life.
South Node (☋)
The South Node (Dragon’s Tail) here causes suffering, both physical and mental. It leads to sorrow, trouble, illness, disgrace, and possibly facial disfigurement or issues with the eyes. If close to the Ascendant degree, it may even shorten the person’s life.
Lot of Fortune (⊕)
When the Lot of Fortune is in the First House, the person gains wealth and success through their own effort and skill. This is especially favorable if Jupiter or Venus cast a good aspect to it. However, if Saturn or Mars aspect it harshly, its positive effects are greatly weakened.
When the Lords of Other Houses Are in the First House
Lord of the 1st House in the 1st House
If the ruler of the Ascendant is placed in the First House, the native is blessed with a fortunate and protected life. They will be well-regarded and shielded from many dangers. This placement brings honor, both from family and others they associate with.
Lord of the 2nd House in the 1st House
This gives the native financial stability and a strong motivation to build their fortune—especially if the planet is well dignified. They are naturally driven to improve their material situation.
Lord of the 3rd House in the 1st House
When the ruler of the Third House is in the First House, it usually means the person is the eldest among their siblings and holds a position of honor or distinction in the family. Their siblings may benefit from the native’s success, gaining wealth or recognition through them. This placement also shows a strong tendency toward frequent short journeys or local travel.
Lord of the 4th House in the 1st House
The native may be successful in matters related to real estate, agriculture, inheritance, and family traditions. They are usually well-grounded and respected by their relatives. This placement also draws the support and affection of influential people.
Lord of the 5th House in the 1st House
This indicates a love for pleasure, creativity, and romance. The native may be charming and attractive, and likely to have many children who admire and honor them. There may also be a strong interest in the arts or education.
Lord of the 6th House in the 1st House
If poorly dignified, this shows a tendency toward illness and problems caused by servants, animals, or subordinates. If well dignified, these challenges may be overcome, and the person may turn such struggles into strengths or sources of growth.
Lord of the 7th House in the 1st House
This brings strong influence from partners, especially romantic or marital ones. The native may benefit from legal matters or contracts, and often gains through disputes or negotiations. However, if the 7th lord is badly placed, the native may suffer from conflict, dishonor, or reproach from a spouse. “Moriturus ante natum”, meaning: “the husband (or wife) may die before the native is born.” This caution may apply in the chart of a woman as well.
Lord of the 8th House in the 1st House
This is not a favorable placement. It brings chronic health issues, possible financial struggles, and may shorten the native’s life—especially if the planet involved is malefic (like Mars or Saturn).
Lord of the 9th House in the 1st House
This gives a love for travel, knowledge, and higher education. The native will be curious, philosophical, and likely respected by scholars and wise people. They may find support through spiritual or religious paths.
Lord of the 10th House in the 1st House
This is a powerful position, showing high ambition, leadership, and visibility. The native may rise to public office or influential roles, gaining recognition, authority, and profit through their career and profession. They are likely to be entrusted with important responsibilities and may work closely with prominent figures.
Lord of the 11th House in the 1st House
The native will have many loyal friends, some of whom are like siblings. They will help the native achieve goals and dreams. This placement brings joy from children, overall good fortune, and a clear conscience, earning the respect of many. “He shall tread his enemies underfoot”—indicating success over rivals.
Lord of the 12th House in the 1st House
This brings many hidden enemies, obstacles, and sorrows. The native may face betrayals, hard labor, and opposition, even from family members. However, note an important progression:
“He will suffer poverty in early life, but gain wealth in later years.”
This suggests a difficult start, followed by eventual success—especially if the planet improves in condition or dignity over time (e.g., through time-lord techniques or solar revolutions).
From the The Doctrine of Nativites and Horary Questions, JOHN GADBURY