Mercury in Virgo
Mercury is said to be exalted in this sign according to ancient tradition. It is also Mercury's own domicile, so it is very powerful here and pure in its expression. This is an excellent position for sharp mental capacity and scholarship. The native is both very good at handling details and getting the larger picture of what is going on in very glib fashion. They make good scientists, lecturers, teachers, those who can handle trusts, merchants, accountants, writers, librarians, and researchers. If Mercury is combust, they may have some lessening of the practical side of these abilities, but their ability for abstraction and problem solving is untouched.
In a diurnal chart, the heat and dryness of the day aim the mind toward more analytical tasks. They prefer routine that has some involvement with the public in a helping capacity that gets them involved in moving around. They do not settle down as easily as those born at night.
In a nocturnal chart, the cool and moistness of night aim the mind toward a metaphorical way of problem solving. There is usually more reserve in their expression and they are more settled and less nervous than their diurnal counterparts. They are especially good at research and are more content with behind the scenes types of employment.
© 2000 Curtis Manwaring
