Cancer

Cancer Sun Symbol

The symbol of the crab represents Cancer in the zodiac. 

According to Greek Mythology, Heracles was one of many illegitimate children sired by Zeus. He seemed mortal, but as he grew from a child, the boy began displaying strength, unlike anything a mere man possessed. Everyone took notice, especially Hera.

Since Heracles’ birth, the Goddess Hera, Zeus’ wife, was filled with a jealous rage. She couldn’t stomach the thought of her husband’s child with another woman, especially a mortal woman. Hera made plans to kill Heracles.

Her plan was simple. As Heracles was off on an adventure battling the Hydra, Hera would send a fearsome crab to attack and destroy the hero. The plan was perfect as the Hydra would keep Heracles busy while the crab finished him off.

The giant crab made its move and attached itself to the hero, pinching and cutting away at the man. However, this was no normal man, and the mighty Heracles dispatched a deadly blow killing the crab instantly quickly after he granted the Hydra a similar end.

Knowing everything the loyal crab did for her, Hera honored its sacrifice. She recreated her dutiful crab’s image in the stars making the constellation of Cancer.

Cancer Sun Element

Cancer displays the element of WATER, a sign of the intuition that motivates them to trust their instincts. The Water signs (Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces) are all different, but they share a deep emotional sensitivity. Often mysterious, they are intense in their manner and have a level of psychic knowing. People born under these signs have vivid imaginations and do well with creative careers or jobs where they think outside the box.

The Water signs are aware of emotions in themselves and others. As the feelings come and go, Water signs experience intense mood swings sometimes. They might display a stubborn streak but are loyal and affectionate. Their ability to feel can be used for good as an empath, or negatively as a manipulative element.

Cancer Sun Quality

Cancer is a CARDINAL sign that evokes a sense of leadership or the ability to ignite a movement. They can run the show. The four cardinal signs (Aries, Cancer, Libra, and Capricorn) each usher in a different season throughout the year. They are original, innovative, and capable of great things.

Being a Cardinal Water sign, Cancer leads from the emotional center. They use feelings to appeal to others’ sense of emotion.

Cancer Ruling Planet

The MOON rules the sign of Cancer. The moon is representative of life’s cyclical nature, the divine feminine, and our emotions. Cancers are the feelers of the zodiac as they can absorb and reflect the emotions swirling around them. At times rather odd, Cancer can be extremely funny in an unconventional way. Just as the moon changes during its cycle, a Cancer’s moods are similarly balanced. 

Cancer Sun Mantra

I feel your energy and reflect your emotions.

Cancer Personality and Purpose

When your Sun is in Cancer, your emotions are the central aspect of your self-expression. With one of the most compassionate hearts in the zodiac, you are a faithful helper. People come to you for an understanding ear. They know you will listen and display empathy for their situation. Mind that you don’t internalize the other person’s problems as your empathetic nature is strong.

As an extremely loving sign, Cancer protects their loved ones with unmatched ferocity. They will do what it takes to ensure everyone is taken care of and safe.  Family, close friends, and loyal coworkers become central figures to a Cancer and are more important than anything. Your personality is that of a “homebody” because the thought of being with family and friends brings pure joy.  

Cancer enjoys displays of affection and sentimental moments. You love to be loved, and you give your whole heart in the process. Any criticism is deadly, and the words will truly hurt you. A more nurturing approach would be a better option. 

You expect devotion because that is what you give in return. It’s only fair. Someone who can make money is even better; Cancer will contribute as well. Most Cancer females are the moneymakers of the family.

You have a difficult time letting go, even when that is the best course of action. This trait comes from the fact that your loyal heart and sensitivity connect you to the good parts of people. Even if they are no longer suitable for you, Cancer will hold on to the fact that something inside is worth loving.  

Often quite moody, Cancer must focus on their natural sensitivity to empathize more effectively with others. However, if someone insults you or hurts you, it will be something you likely hold on to forever. Your memory is extraordinary.

As a youth, you were shy or reserved, but your imagination was exceptional. Any outlet for creativity always pays off for a Cancer!

Often an easy child to manage, you followed directions and thrived on the loving-kindness of those around you. If love were lacking in your household, your persona would be similarly affected. Without the work to recognize and understand the hurts of your past, Cancer is capable of growing up inside a shell. 

Your value to humanity is sometimes taken for granted. Cancer energy helps the world see the importance of connecting with their emotional side and appreciating each other’s unique qualities. Cancer shows us what is truly important in life.

Cancer Compatibility

Cancer is most compatible with Gemini, Leo, and Virgo, plus other Water signs.

Are you a cusp?

If the description of Cancer Sun is characteristic of your personality, you may find several of your planets are aligned with this sign, element, or quality. If very little of the description represents your persona, then other signs in your chart may carry more substantial aspects. Also, if you were born on a cusp, which is when your birthday is within a few days of the Sun’s move from one zodiac sign to the next, then your Sun might not be the most accurate representation of your potential. Being on a cusp means you display the traits of two different Sun signs or a unique blend of the two.

Read on for your other planetary placements, which give more insight.