Natal astrology is a part of the Indian, Chinese, and Western astrological systems. It is also called as genethliacal astrology. This branch of astrology involves the construction of a 'natal' or birth chart based on the exact date, time, and place of an individual's birth. In the Indian astrological system, the birth chart is referred to as 'Janam Patri'. The birth chart will show the positions of the sun, moon, planets, etc. at the time of birth as well as the angles between them. The chart can then be interpreted to determine an individual's personality as well as his strengths and weaknesses.

Features of the Natal Chart

The important features of a natal chart are the position of the sun and moon as well as the ascendant. This is the zodiacal sign that ascended over the eastern horizon at the time of birth. A particular planet, called the ascendant ruler, rules the ascendant, and is also included in the chart. Besides the ascendant ruler, another planet is also required. It is called the rising planet and refers to the planet that occupies the first, second or third house after the ascendant. Planets that are right next to the ascendant in the chart also assume significance.

Chart Weighting by Sign

Once the natal chart is prepared, the process of chart weighting begins. It involves listing the position of the main variables in the chart according to the sign and house that each one appears in. If the majority of the planets appear in a particular sign then that sign will be the dominant force in the individual's personality.

The number of planets considered will depend on the system of astrology followed. Each zodiac sign can be placed in three categories. The first one will determine whether the sign is masculine or feminine. The second category determines the ruling element of the zodiac sign and the third gives the sign its own quality.

Elemental Signs

Depending on how many planets are in each sign, a zodiac may be denoted as a fire, earth, water or air sign. Each element has its own characteristics as follows:

Fire

Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius are labelled as the fire signs. This is one of the liveliest elements. An individual with a dominant fire sign is likely to be energetic, enthusiastic, headstrong, and optimistic. He will also appear to be arrogant and egotistical at times. In spite of being overbearing, he can also be extremely generous and kind hearted on spontaneous occasions. This individual is also fiercely independent and prefers to control his life in all spheres.

Earth

The earth signs are Virgo, Capricorn, and Taurus. The earth signs are associated with stability. An individual with an earth sign is likely to be cautious, practical, and sensible. He is diligent in his work but goes about it in an unhurried manner. An earth individual craves material and emotional security. He tends to be shy in social situations and will not easily fall in love. However, once he finds a soul mate, he is extremely committed to the relationship. He follows this principle even while forming friendships. This individual is quite shrewd and does not believe in wasting his money or time.

Water

Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces make up the water signs. An individual with this sign is highly emotional, and tends to eschew rational thought. He requires time to come to terms with new ideas and responds slowly to whatever is asked of him. Due to his emotional tendencies, he can sometimes be difficult to live with as he has trouble expressing his own feelings. They are capable of great affection which is usually directed towards their family, close friends, and pets.

Air

Aquarius, Gemini, and Libra are referred to as the air signs. An individual belonging to this sign is usually an excellent communicator. He is also very interested in answers to different ideas. This individual tends to have many friends though is not very keen on a family life. He is witty and imaginative but may often come across as rude and sarcastic. This person is also technologically savvy and is often engaged in a multitude of tasks at the same time. As a friend, this individual is an excellent companion.

An individual need not display all the qualities ascribed to his sign. This is because his dominant sign only tells part of the story. Every person usually displays characteristics associated with each element.