Mars Saturn Aspects in Synastry
Mars – Saturn Aspects in Synastry: Relationship Astrology
When Mars in one person’s chart forms an aspect to their partner’s Saturn, special handling is required. The hard aspects, in particular, can be problematic.
The conjunction of Mars and Saturn in synastry is best understood when you consider the individual energies of these two planets. Notably, the qualities of the sign that Saturn occupies point to expressions that do not come naturally to Saturn. Saturn feels awkward or inhibited expressing the energies of the sign and often will try to compensate by exercising control over these characteristics in their personality.
In contrast, the characteristics of the sign that Mars occupies are expressed fully, naturally, and with enthusiasm! You can only imagine what this means in a relationship. If both individuals are considerate of each other and growth-oriented, the relationship can be a great learning experience.
For example, if the conjunction occurs in Aries, the Mars individual will take action and express their “me-first” tendency freely and unabashedly. Aries traits, quite simply, come naturally to Mars! Saturn, on the other hand, feels unnatural expressing these traits. Perhaps Saturn feels guilty when taking the lead or prioritizing their needs over others. Where Mars rushes right in, Saturn carefully appraises the situation before going in–if they don’t withdraw from it altogether.
Mars can have much to learn from Saturn–Mars can learn how to think a little before acting and tone down their aggressiveness and impatience. In turn, Saturn has much to learn from Mars. Saturn may secretly long to be like Mars, going after what it wants without fear of failure.
On the other hand, if the Mars person is not sensitive to Saturn’s feelings of inadequacy or insecurity, they may simply assert independence, tease Saturn for being inept or withdrawn, and run roughshod over Saturn’s feelings. In truth, the Saturn person tends to keep their insecurities hidden.
Similarly, if the Saturn person doesn’t want to face up to their own fears or resentments, Saturn may do everything in their power to bring the Mars person down, control Mars, and limit their expression.
This second scenario is quite likely when Mars squares, quincunxes, or opposes Saturn in synastry. At the beginning of the relationship, Saturn is often unfettered by Mars’ energy and may even find it attractive. With time, Saturn becomes annoyed with Mars’ seeming lack of discipline and “childishness.” How Saturn handles this will be very important. Unfortunately, very often, the Saturn native uses subtle ways to undermine the Mars native’s confidence. Saturn attempts to control Mars by limiting, blocking, and undermining Mars. Mars feels like they are always in the wrong in Saturn’s eyes.
For example, when Mars laughs naturally and freely, Saturn stares at Mars with a superior look, as if Mars is foolish. Saturn may criticize Mars for everything from how Mars dresses to how Mars behaves with others. Saturn perceives Mars as overconfident and frivolous, gets annoyed at the drop of a hat, and lets Mars know, either with direct criticism or a general air of disapproval.
For a while, Mars tries to win back Saturn’s favor. After all, the very traits that Saturn seemed to love about Mars at the beginning of the relationship have turned into things to criticize. The nature of Mars is rather aggressive, however, so this period will likely be short-lived. Mars will then become angry at Saturn for all of Saturn’s overly serious behavior and disapproval. Mars may rebel and flaunt themselves before Saturn, which in turn makes Saturn feel all the more need to inhibit and restrict Mars.
Can you see where this is going? The relationship has turned into a living hell. Any latent aggressive tendencies in either individual become larger than life. At the very least, verbal abusiveness can result. Physical aggression is sometimes the next step if these discordant energies get out of hand. Eventually, Mars will want to leave, which can anger Saturn even more. These aspects require special handling, and both parties should be growth-oriented in order to manage the discordant energies.
The trine and sextile create a different energy, one that can bring a sense of stability and dependability to the relationship. There is a constancy and predictability in the Saturn person that Mars finds very attractive. At restless times in our lives, predictability can sometimes be equated with boredom. However, much of the time, Mars takes comfort in knowing that Saturn’s passions are quite constant. The Mars person knows that Saturn will be there when needed. Mars can depend on Saturn, creating a secure and reassuring dynamic.
This harmonious aspect between Mars and Saturn in synastry can be a significantly stabilizing one. Predictability and dependability are virtues that are sometimes overshadowed by more glamorous “features” of relationships, and it is normal for these qualities to be undervalued occasionally. However, it’s also a good idea to take the time now and again to appreciate the overall stability of your relationship.
Due to Saturn’s constancy, Mars may sometimes feel a little self-conscious about introducing new ways of doing things, particularly in the bedroom. However, Mars may be surprised to find a warm audience in Saturn, and Saturn is likely to appreciate the Mars individual’s initiative, perceiving them to be a masterful initiator.
Much will depend, however, on the condition of Mars and Saturn in each individual’s natal chart. It’s always important to consider these unique factors. For example, a troubled Mars might ‘misbehave’ more often, even if the synastry is positive. Likewise, a troubled Saturn is likely to bring more trauma or insecurity to the relationship, highlighting the need for individual self-awareness and growth.
Back to the Synastry article.
Intermediate and advanced students of Astrology might enjoy our article, SoulMate Astrology.
Don’t know the positions of your planets? Be sure to find out your personal astrology data online, at no cost.
THE ASTROLOGY OF LOVE & ATTRACTION: ARTICLES & GUIDES
Recommended and related reading:
Synastry: Understanding Human Relationships (affiliate link)
CafeAstrology.com Notes: This classic by Ronald Davison presents the cross-aspects of each planet in synastry. The interpretations are insightful and warmly written.
Saturn: A New Look at an Old Devil (affiliate link)
Liz Greene’s book about Saturn includes Saturn in synastry.
