Capricorn III: Authority and Stewardship
Catherine Gnatek Catherine Gnatek

Capricorn III: Authority and Stewardship

In this installment of the series, I turn to Capricorn III, the third and final decan of Capricorn, where the focus shifts from creation to leadership and stewardship. This is the stage of the journey where what has been built must be held, directed, and sustained over time. Capricorn III emphasizes responsibility, authority, and the task of containing collective effort once a structure or movement is in place.

At its core, Capricorn III deals with consolidation, governance, and the careful management of power. The Four of Pentacles reflects this clearly, showing a figure who has secured position and value and is focused on maintaining stability. This decan raises questions about leadership after success has been achieved, how authority is exercised, and how the desire to preserve what exists can support continuity or, at times, limit growth.

In the video, I look at the Rider–Waite tarot imagery, the Sun and Mercury as decanic rulers, the role of Chesed on the Tree of Life, and how these ideas appear in real life. I also examine the chart of Martin Luther King Jr., whose Sun and Midheaven in Capricorn III illustrate themes of leadership, responsibility, and the challenge of sustaining a movement once it has taken form.

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Capricorn II: Shaping Creative Force Responsibly
Catherine Gnatek Catherine Gnatek

Capricorn II: Shaping Creative Force Responsibly

In this video, I explore Capricorn II, the second decan of Capricorn and the part of the zodiac where effort becomes organized into form. This decan emphasizes building something that can last, often through cooperation with others and within defined structures. Capricorn II is less about initiating action and more about shaping work so it can be sustained over time.

At its core, Capricorn II deals with structure, understanding, and collaboration. The Three of Pentacles reflects this clearly, showing work carried out within a plan, with distinct roles and shared responsibility. This decan raises questions about how effort is coordinated, how limits shape creativity, and how individual contribution fits into a larger whole.

In the video, I look at the Rider–Waite tarot imagery, the Saturn, Venus, and Mars rulerships, and the role of Binah on the Tree of Life. I also discuss how these themes appear in real life through examples that illustrate Capricorn II’s focus on long‑term construction, cooperation, and giving form to something meaningful.

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Capricorn I: Riding the Ups and Downs of Change
Catherine Gnatek Catherine Gnatek

Capricorn I: Riding the Ups and Downs of Change

In the video below, I explore Capricorn I, the first decan of Capricorn and the part of the journey where movement begins in the material world. This is where responsibility shows up early, often before things feel settled or secure. Capricorn I is about starting to build while adapting to conditions that keep changing.

At its core, Capricorn I deals with balance, adjustment, and managing effort over time. The Two of Pentacles captures this clearly: the figure who keeps things in motion, responding to ups and downs rather than expecting stability. This decan raises questions about endurance, responsibility, and how we stay engaged when life requires constant recalibration.

In the video, I look at the Rider–Waite and Thoth tarot imagery, the Saturn and Jupiter rulerships, the role of Chokmah on the Tree of Life, and how these ideas show up in real life. I also examine the chart of Francis Ford Coppola and the character of Michael Corleone, both of whom reflect Capricorn I themes of adaptation, risk, leadership, and long‑term responsibility.

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Sagittarius III: The “Quest” as Karmic Teacher
Catherine Gnatek Catherine Gnatek

Sagittarius III: The “Quest” as Karmic Teacher

In the video below, I explore Sagittarius III, the third decan of Sagittarius and the part of the journey where effort becomes real. If Sagittarius I is the excitement of beginning and Sagittarius II is the push through obstacles, Sagittarius III is the point where we carry the full weight of what we started and bring it into the world.

At its core, Sagittarius III is about completion, limits, and the honest work of follow‑through. The Ten of Wands captures this clearly: the figure who keeps going even when the load feels heavy. This decan raises questions about endurance, commitment, and what we learn only by seeing something through to the end. It’s the stage where inspiration becomes material, and where our expectations meet reality.

In the video, I look at the Rider–Waite imagery, the decan rulers, the shift from Yesod to Malkuth on the Tree of Life, and how these ideas show up in daily experience. I also look at the chart of Jamie Lee Curtis, whose long connection to the Halloween films reflects the steady, disciplined, long‑range effort that defines Sagittarius III.

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Sagittarius II: Battling Inner and Outer Dragons
Catherine Gnatek Catherine Gnatek

Sagittarius II: Battling Inner and Outer Dragons

In the video below, I explore Sagittarius II, the second decan of Sagittarius and the part of the quest where we start to meet challenges along the way. If Sagittarius I has the excitement and momentum of setting out, Sagittarius II is the moment we begin to confront real obstacles and test our resilience. With Mars and the Moon ruling this decan, there’s a blend of defensiveness, vulnerability, and emotional strength that shapes how people experience this part of the zodiac.

At its heart, Sagittarius II is about navigating difficulty while staying connected to your inner fire. The Nine of Wands in the tarot captures this perfectly: the tired but determined figure who keeps going despite wounds, setbacks, and moments of self‑protection. This decan often brings up questions of boundaries, emotional safety, and how we safeguard our passion as we move through the more complicated parts of the quest. It’s the middle stage of the journey, where old patterns surface and the body starts to respond to the challenges we meet.

In the video, I explore the imagery in the Rider–Waite card, ancient descriptions from Ibn Ezra, the Picatrix, and Agrippa, and the symbolism of Yesod on the Tree of Life. I also look at the chart of Elvis Presley, whose rising degree falls in this decan. His life reflects the full range of Sagittarius II themes: the power of instinct and emotion, the vulnerability of sudden exposure, and the struggle to protect oneself in the midst of success. If you enjoy the video, liking and subscribing helps others find my work and supports my channel. #astrology #sagittarius #decanwalkthrough #tarotandastrology

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Sagittarius I: The “Quest” Begins…
Catherine Gnatek Catherine Gnatek

Sagittarius I: The “Quest” Begins…

Sagittarius I, the first decan of Sagittarius—a place of swift movement, clarity of purpose, and the beginning of a bold new quest. People with points or placements here often feel propelled by an inner vision, eager to move out into the world with speed, enthusiasm, and intention. Ruled by Jupiter and Mercury, this decan fuses expansion with intelligence, blending the optimism of Jupiter with Mercury’s sharp, agile mind. The result is a bright, dynamic energy that seeks direction, meaning, and momentum—a drive to set plans into motion and pursue one’s mission with confidence and purpose.

At its core, Sagittarius I is about decisive forward movement: taking an inspired idea and turning it into clear, deliberate action. Linked to the Eight of Wands in the tarot, this decan expresses pure motion—unhindered, unambiguous, and ready to launch. In the Rider–Waite image, wands streak across an open sky, symbolizing unobstructed progress, while the Thoth card, titled Swiftness, emphasizes Mercury’s rapid precision and Jupiter’s blessing of opportunity. This is the moment in the larger Sagittarian quest when excitement and vision align, when instinct becomes intention, and when momentum gathers in a way that feels almost electric. The shift from Netzach to Hod on the Tree of Life reinforces this movement: from raw desire and feeling into structure, articulation, and clarity.

In the video, I look at ancient descriptions from Ibn Ezra, the Picatrix, and Agrippa, all of which emphasize heat, speed, boldness, and directed force—qualities that echo across the symbolism of this decan. I also explore the chart of Bruce Lee, whose rising degree and Sun both fall in Sagittarius I. His lightning‑fast physicality, philosophical depth, and relentless refinement of technique embody this decan’s fusion of Jupiterian vision and Mercurial precision. From martial mastery to intellectual discipline, he illustrates the essence of Sagittarius I: the power of a clear path, the courage to pursue it, and the momentum that carries us forward when inspiration and intention unite.

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Scorpio III: The Seven Deadly Sins
Catherine Gnatek Catherine Gnatek

Scorpio III: The Seven Deadly Sins

In this video, I continue exploring the 36 decans of the zodiac with Scorpio III, the final 10 degrees of Scorpio. This part of the zodiac is ruled by Mars, Venus, and the Moon, combining desire, attraction, and imagination. People with planets or points here often explore deep emotional terrain — what they truly want and what it means to confront their inner world.

We’ll talk about the Seven of Cups tarot card and its link to the seven deadly sins, showing both the creative and confusing sides of desire. I’ll also look at astrologer and Jungian analyst Liz Greene, whose chart reflects these same themes, and Grace Slick, whose song White Rabbit captures the blurred line between imagination and illusion.

Scorpio III asks real questions: How do we handle longing without getting lost in it? What happens when desire becomes distortion? This video connects astrology, psychology, and myth to show how this part of the zodiac challenges us to align imagination with awareness.

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Scorpio II: The Queen of Soul
Catherine Gnatek Catherine Gnatek

Scorpio II: The Queen of Soul

Hi, this is Cathy Gnatek. In this video, I continue the series on the 36 decans of the zodiac with Scorpio II, the second decan of Scorpio. This part of the sign has a different tone from Scorpio I—it’s ruled by Jupiter and the Sun, bringing warmth, generosity, and a drive to connect deeply with another person. It’s about intimacy, faith, and the push-pull that happens when two people let their guard down.

We’ll look at how this 10 degrees of Scorpio expresses itself in real life and through symbolism in astrology and tarot. The Six of Cups shows both connection and nostalgia, and that balance shows up in how we form attachments—sometimes through openness and sometimes through holding on too tightly.

To see this decan in action, we’ll look at Aretha Franklin, who had her rising degree here. Her songs show the same emotional depth, strength, and sensitivity—especially Dr. Feelgood (Love is a Serious Business) and (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman.

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Scorpio I: The Journey Through Love, Loss, and Renewal
Catherine Gnatek Catherine Gnatek

Scorpio I: The Journey Through Love, Loss, and Renewal

In this blogpost and video, we’re diving into Scorpio I, the first decan of Scorpio, as part of my series on the 36 decans of the zodiac. Scorpio I is ruled by Mars not once, but three times—through the whole sign, decan rulership under the triplicity system, and the Chaldean order. This gives it a powerful emphasis on intensity, transformation, and deep connection in relationships.

We’ll explore the themes of intimacy, disillusionment, and resilience as reflected in the tarot card Five of Cups, associated with this decan. Through myth, astrology, and examples like Nicole Kidman—whose rising degree is in this part of Scorpio—we’ll uncover how this decan reflects the emotional complexity of loss, letting go, and finding a way forward. From ancient texts to modern interpretations, Scorpio I speaks to the profound challenges and growth that come with truly knowing another person.

If you enjoy this deep dive into astrology and psychology, please like and subscribe—it really helps others find the channel. Also, let me know in the comments if you resonate with these themes or have placements in Scorpio I. Let’s get started!

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Libra III: Finding the Still Center in the Midst of Conflicting Forces
Catherine Gnatek Catherine Gnatek

Libra III: Finding the Still Center in the Midst of Conflicting Forces

Welcome to my exploration of Libra III, the final and most reflective decan of Libra. In this video, we’ll dive into the rich symbolism of this part of the Zodiac, ruled by Jupiter and Mercury, and how it represents the balance between expansion and precision, rest and renewal, and the human and divine. We’ll also explore the tarot connections through the Four of Swords, offering insights into finding your center amidst life’s chaos.

We’ll take an in-depth look at how these themes manifest in the life and chart of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, whose Libra rising and planetary placements perfectly illustrate the interplay of discipline and grace, action and reflection. From his legendary achievements as a basketball player to his intellectual and spiritual pursuits, Kareem embodies the essence of Libra III's balancing act.

By the end of this video, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of how this decan’s energies can help you pause, restore, and integrate your experiences. Whether you’re an astrology enthusiast or just curious about the connections between the Zodiac, tarot, and Kabbalah, there’s something here for you. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to support the channel! #LibraIII #AstrologyInsights #TarotWisdom #KareemAbdulJabbar #FourOfSwords

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Libra II: Love, Loss, & Commitment
Catherine Gnatek Catherine Gnatek

Libra II: Love, Loss, & Commitment

Hi, this is Cathy Gnatek, and I’m continuing my series on the 36 Decans of the Zodiac, today with Libra II, the second decan of Libra. This particular part of the zodiac, as we’re going to find out, has a lot to do with commitments—keeping commitments, breaking commitments, and the sense of loss we may feel if commitments are broken, especially those involving relationships.

Venus, the goddess of love, rules the sign of Libra. And everybody knows—if you know a little bit about astrology—that if Aries is the sign of "me," then Libra is the sign of "we." It’s this relational sign. How do I interact and communicate with a partner when I’m in connection with someone?

We’re going to see this play out in the esoteric symbols that are associated with this part of the zodiac, as well as in the Tarot card, the Three of Swords, which is called "Sorrow" in the Thoth deck. And finally—interestingly enough—today, instead of looking at people who have their rising degree in this part of the zodiac, we’re going to talk about the late 1970s, when Pluto was in this part of the zodiac, bringing up issues from the underworld around these questions of commitment.

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Libra I: Justice & Grace
Catherine Gnatek Catherine Gnatek

Libra I: Justice & Grace

Welcome back to my exploration of the 36 decans of the Zodiac. In today’s video, we focus on Libra I, the first 10 degrees of the sign of Libra. This decan is ruled by Venus and the Moon, blending themes of justice, beauty, harmony, and emotional memory. Libra I asks us to balance fairness with the need for connection, expressing our desire for justice in a way that can be received and understood by others.

We’ll explore the rich symbolism of this decan through the lens of ancient texts, tarot cards, and the Kabbalistic Tree of Life. These systems reveal how Libra I introduces new ideas and sparks creative energy, all while maintaining a deep focus on relationships and collaboration. The tarot imagery, particularly the Two of Swords, reflects Libra I’s delicate balance between inner reflection and outward action.

As an example of Libra I energy in action, we’ll take a close look at the life and work of Sidney Poitier, the legendary actor and activist who had his rising degree in this decan. From his groundbreaking films that challenged societal norms to his diplomatic work as an ambassador, Poitier exemplified the relational approach to justice that defines Libra I. Be sure to like and subscribe to support the channel and stay tuned for more Zodiac decan explorations.

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Virgo III: Life, Death, & Individuation
Catherine Gnatek Catherine Gnatek

Virgo III: Life, Death, & Individuation

I continue my series on the 36 decans of the Zodiac with Virgo III, the final 10 degrees of the sign. This is a particularly fascinating and complex section of the Zodiac, shaped by the combined influences of its decanic rulers, Mercury and Venus.

Mercury—planet of intellect, communication, and analysis—has a particularly strong influence here. Mercury is exalted in Virgo and also in its own sign, meaning its natural qualities are amplified in this decan. This heightens the capacity for clear, analytical thinking, precise communication, and problem-solving.

However, Venus, the co-ruler of this decan, brings a contrasting energy. Venus, the planet of love, beauty, harmony, and justice, is considered to be in her "fall" in Virgo. In astrological terms, a planet in its fall struggles to fully express its qualities or align with the surrounding energies.

In the video below, I explore how these two planetary rulers interact in this decan and the themes they bring to light. Virgo III resonates strongly with the concept of “individuation,” a term introduced by Carl Jung. Individuation refers to the process of becoming whole—of integrating all parts of ourselves into a cohesive identity. It’s about stepping into who we truly are, a process that often requires navigating challenges, letting go of outdated beliefs, and embracing growth through experience.

The Ten of Pentacles, the tarot card associated with Virgo III, reflects these themes of integration and completion. It speaks to legacy, material fulfillment, and the culmination of efforts—a fitting symbol for a decan so focused on wholeness and manifestation. We’ll also explore insights from ancient esoteric texts and the Hermetic Kabbalah, focusing on Malkuth, the 10th and final Sephira on the Tree of Life. Malkuth is closely connected to the material world and the act of manifestation, but it also represents the necessity of letting go, clearing space for new possibilities to emerge.

To illustrate these ideas, the video also explores the chart of Steve Jobs, whose rising degree falls in Virgo III. Jobs’ reflections later in life often revolved around themes of death and release, which are deeply tied to the energies of this decan.

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Leo III: The Fight for Light
Catherine Gnatek Catherine Gnatek

Leo III: The Fight for Light

We continue our series on the 36 Decans of the Zodiac today with Leo III, the third and final Decan of Leo. This Decan is ruled by Mars, which adds intensity, drive, and a warrior-like determination to Leo’s steady and expressive energy. Leo III is a place of perseverance and faith, where the challenges of life are met with courage and conviction. It’s about holding onto one’s light, even in the face of adversity.

What sets Leo III apart is its connection to endurance and the will to overcome. This Decan is associated with the 7th Sephira, Netzach, on the Tree of Life, which represents victory, resilience, and persistence. It’s a place where creativity and strength combine to shine through struggle, but this energy can also show up as a fierce need to defend one’s position or power. The fiery influence of Mars infuses this Decan with a sense of urgency and passion that makes it stand out from the others.

In this post, we’ll explore the unique characteristics of Leo III through its esoteric meanings, Tarot associations, and numerological symbolism. We’ll also examine how this energy manifests in the lives of two very different figures: Maya Angelou, who exemplifies the triumph of resilience and creative brilliance, and Donald Trump, whose persistent and controversial drive reflects the shadow side of this Decan. Their contrasting stories provide a nuanced lens through which to understand the complexities of Leo III

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Leo II: Triumph, Shadow and Superman
Catherine Gnatek Catherine Gnatek

Leo II: Triumph, Shadow and Superman

In this exploration of Leo II, the second Decan of Leo, we dive into the fiery, radiant energy of this zodiac face. Ruled by the Sun and expansive Jupiter, this Decan embodies creativity, confidence, and the drive to shine brightly in the world. However, alongside its triumphs lies a shadow side—a cautionary tale of overconfidence, or hubris, illustrated through the myth of Icarus and even the life of Christopher Reeve, whose ascendant degree fell in this Decan.

We’ll examine ancient texts, such as Ibn Ezra’s The Beginning of Wisdom and the Picatrix, which describe Leo II as a crowned figure of beauty and power, but also as one tied to conflict and struggle. The Six of Wands in the Thoth deck, called Victory, further captures the energy of triumph, with intersecting wands igniting fire at their crossing point—a symbol of creative success and divine favor.

Ultimately, Leo II is about balancing the heights of success with humility, embracing both the acclaim and the lessons that come with it. Join us as we unpack the astrology, Tarot, numerology, and real-life examples that bring this powerful Decan to life.

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Leo I: The Fire of Determination
Catherine Gnatek Catherine Gnatek

Leo I: The Fire of Determination

We’ve reached an exciting milestone in my series on the 36 Decans of the Zodiac because today we’re diving into the sign of Leo. This marks our second exploration of the element of fire, which gives us an opportunity to deepen our understanding of Leo by comparing it to Aries, for example. The focus of today’s video is the first Decan of Leo—Leo I—which covers the first 10 degrees of the sign. In the video below, I go into more detail about this Decan, including a discussion of the two planets that rule it: Saturn and the Sun.

We’ll also explore the tarot card associated with this Decan, the Five of Wands, and the numerology that adds layers to its meaning. To make it personal, I’ll share examples of two individuals with their rising degree in this Decan: Meryl Streep, the legendary actress, and Mahiedine Mekhissi-Benabbad, a renowned middle-distance runner. His chart highlights some fascinating themes tied to this Decan.

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Cancer III: Too Much of a Good Thing?
Catherine Gnatek Catherine Gnatek

Cancer III: Too Much of a Good Thing?

I’m continuing my series on the 36 Decans of the Zodiac with Cancer III, the final decan of Cancer. Cancer is a water sign, ruled by the Moon, and it's a cardinal sign, meaning it likes to initiate. I covered the meaning of Cancer in detail in the first part of this series on Cancer I . What sets this decan apart from the other two in Cancer are the planets ruling it. Here, it’s the Moon and Jupiter, alongside the Moon ruling the sign itself. So we have Moon, Moon, and Jupiter — bringing a lot of nurturing energy that’s expansive, optimistic, and growth-oriented.

Think about the mom who insists you take a third piece of cake after you’ve already had two, saying, "No, honey, eat it, eat it." That’s the energy of this decan. People with points or planets in this decan might grow up with some privilege or abundance, and the question becomes: what do they do with it? For example, Bill Gates and the poet Lord Byron both have connections to this decan. There’s a lot to dive into, and I hope you enjoy it. If you do, please like and subscribe—it helps others find my content.

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Cancer II: Creating Sacred Spaces
Catherine Gnatek Catherine Gnatek

Cancer II: Creating Sacred Spaces

Cancer II, the second decan of Cancer, is a fascinating blend of lunar intuition, Martian protection, and Mercurial communication. This decan is deeply tied to nurturing growth and creating safe, sacred spaces where ideas, emotions, and individuals can thrive. Ruled by the moon, Mars, and Mercury, it carries a unique energy of protecting what is delicate and fostering meaningful connections. Drawing from ancient esoteric texts, tarot symbolism, and examples like Carl Jung and Meghan Markle, this post explores how this part of the Zodiac embodies themes of emotional depth, creative cultivation, and the sacred process of individuation. Whether you’re interested in astrology, mythology, or personal growth, this exploration of Cancer II offers rich insights into the interplay of protection, communication, and emotional development.

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