What does Cazimi mean in Astrology? And how to work with a Cazimi (Transit and Natal)
Astrology has endless terminology and techniques to learn. A really simple and profound aspect that you should know about is that of Cazimi.
Cazimi simply put is when a planet is conjunct the Sun. With the Sun being the light and Consciousness of our solar system this mean that the archetype of the planet conjunct is elevated.
Etymology and Technical Aspects of a Cazimi
The term "cazimi" derives from the Arabic word "kaṣmīmī," meaning "in the heart" or "in the center." In astrology, cazimi refers to a planet that is within an exceptionally tight orb of conjunction with the Sun, typically within 17 minutes of arc. This close proximity to the Sun imbues the planet with heightened strength and influence, amplifying its qualities and significance in the birth chart or transit chart.
Cazimi is considered a point of planetary empowerment, symbolizing a moment of clarity and potency. It represents a fusion of the energies of the planet and the Sun, blending their archetypal qualities and catalyzing a profound expression of the planet's symbolism.
Cazimi or Combust? Flying too close to the sun.
I feel most astrological aspects contain both challenges and opportunities. Whilst a cazimi is generally regarded as a point of strength and empowerment and clarity, very often it’s taken us some ‘work’ to get to this pivotal moment. Preceding and after the exact cazimi placement, planets that are “combust”, meaning they are very close to the Sun but not within the cazimi orb. Planets in combustion may experience diminished strength or clarity of expression, obscuring their influence and potency.
However, the transition from combustion to cazimi marks a pivotal moment of clarity and empowerment. As a planet emerges from the fiery embrace of the Sun to enter cazimi, it signifies a breakthrough or revelation, offering insights and opportunities for growth. I feel this most perhaps with the Mercury Cazimi- we learn so many lessons during a Mercury synodic cycle and then in the middle of each Mercury Retrograde we have the jewel and insight of the cazimi - a new idea to be explored over the fresh Mercury cycle. This shift from obscurity to illumination symbolises the cyclical nature of astrology, where challenges give way to opportunities and transformation.
Inferior and Superior Conjunctions
Understanding the relationship between cazimi and inferior or superior conjunctions can deepen our appreciation of this celestial phenomenon. An inferior conjunction occurs when a planet is positioned between the Earth and the Sun, while a superior conjunction occurs when a planet is on the opposite side of the Sun from the Earth. Cazimi often occurs during an inferior conjunction, amplifying the planet's influence and significance. This intimate alignment with the Sun enhances the planet's potency and clarity of expression, symbolizing a moment of profound insight and empowerment. Conversely, cazimi may also occur during a superior conjunction, although less frequently. In this case, the planet is on the far side of the Sun from the Earth, but still within a tight orb of conjunction. While the influence of the superior conjunction may be less palpable than that of the inferior conjunction, cazimi during a superior conjunction still carries significance, offering opportunities for illumination and integration of the planet's energies.
Natal Cazimi vs. Transit Cazimi
Most of the time we are working with transiting Cazimi placements since the sun meets every planet at least once each solar cycle. Then with the faster moving planets like Mercury we have several transiting cazimis per year. Natal cazimi occurs when a planet is cazimi in a birth chart, indicating a point of strength or focal point for the individual's life path and purpose. Individuals with natal cazimi placements may possess heightened talents or qualities associated with the planet involved, serving as beacons of inspiration and empowerment.
Transit cazimi, on the other hand, occurs when a planet becomes cazimi through its movement in the sky, activating specific areas of life and stimulating growth and change. Transit cazimi can coincide with significant events or turning points in an individual's life, offering opportunities for self-discovery, transformation, and alignment with the cosmic flow.
Go Deeper with Planetary Cazimis
Here are some blogs I’ve written on working with specific planetary Cazimiis: