When a planet rises before or after the Sun, its symbolic expression takes on a distinct tone. This astronomical relationship forms the basis of the Morning Star and Evening Star phases — an ancient idea rooted in sky observation and traditionally linked to whether a planet leads or follows the Sun.
Although technically any planet can be east or west of the Sun, this distinction is especially meaningful for Mercury and Venus, because they remain close enough to the Sun to create visible phases in the sky.
This idea comes from traditional astrology's concept of zodiacal order:
the planet that appears earlier in the zodiac is said to overcome the one that appears later, giving it initiative or influence in the relationship.
For example, with an Aries Moon trine Sagittarius Mercury, the Moon is earlier in zodiacal order and therefore overcomes Mercury. The emotional function (Moon) influences the thinking function (Mercury), contributing to a more blunt or emotionally-driven communication style.
The Morning Star vs Evening Star distinction is simply the most visible and intuitive expression of this same principle — except the reference planet is always the Sun.
Morning Star — A Planet That Leads the Sun
A Morning Star planet rises before the Sun, it comes in earlier zodiacal order as compared to the Sun. Therefore, symbolically, it is said to "lead" the Sun since astronomically, it shows up before the Sun's light comes into the world on that day.
Hence, this is why a Morning Star Mercury would be delineated as speaking first, or thinking out loud — that is, generally more proactive in initiating ideas. Because the mind/direction side of things (those governed by Sun) is listening to Mercury (the thinking, rational side that Mercury symbolizes).
Similarly, a Morning Star Venus would be a more proactive Venus — often symbolizing a more assertive style in love and relationships for the native, as it leads the Sun. Natives with this are more likely to adopt a proactive approach in affection and relationships.
Evening Star — A Planet That Follows the Sun
An Evening Star planet sets after the Sun. It comes in later zodiacal order as compared to the Sun and therefore is said to "follow" the Sun since astronomically, it sets after the Sun. It responds, reflects, and integrates after the Sun's illumination.
Therefore, an Evening Star Mercury is likely to adopt a communication style that is more inward driven, reflective and context sensitive. Whilst an Evening Star Venus, likewise, often expresses relational sensitivity and tends to respond only after receiving mutual signals.
Understanding Their Implications in Your Birth Chart
Hence, solar orientation gives insight into, in particular, how Mercury and Venus behave, not just what they mean:
- Do your ideas lead, or do they respond?
- Do your affections initiate, or do they emerge gradually?
- Do you express first and reflect later — or the reverse?
This often describes style more than trait:
- a Morning Star Mercury → "Yes, I always speak first."
- an Evening Star Venus → "I definitely open up slowly and respond to cues."
It's a subtle layer, but it can be remarkably revealing.
Closing Thoughts
If you're curious how these visibility conditions show up for you, our tools clearly identify whether either planet appears as a Morning Star or Evening Star, helping you understand whether their qualities lead or follow in expression. You'll instantly see which planetary themes are spotlighted — and which are operating more quietly beneath the surface.
