Or more simply put, how do you contribute to society? I explore this topic by looking at the 5th and 11th houses in Astrology. These houses align naturally with the signs Aquarius and Leo and share similar characteristics with them, but as houses they represent a dynamic force of expression and awareness. Like a spectrum of light, the 5th house is complimentary to the 11th house; opposite in nature but bound by the dynamic force. One cannot exist without the other and as with most things in life, balance is imperative between our truthful identity and the identity shaped by societal norms. We can all agree that the human social experience is indefinitely complex. In this life we are neither purely individual nor purely collective, but a constant negotiation between the two forces.
The Fifth house, in Vedic astrology is a Dharma house, meaning it deals with issues of purpose and fulfillment. It gives clues to answering the age-old question of what is my purpose or why am I here? Sun is the natural ruler as it governs Leo, but if you are not an Aries ascendant, then you will have a different planet as the house ruler, also known as the bhava karaka. The Sun brings a purifying force wherever it goes and represents our soul and truthful expression. This is an outward external representation of our unique identity in this lifetime.
The Eleventh house is a Kama house and deals with the social and psychological aspects of life. It shows where we have made gains and achievements through our efforts and actions. Aside from material and physical gains, it is also a house of awareness, where we gain insight, meaning sight of within, and in this case within means our 5th house of truthful expression and identity.
Awareness is not a static concept, but a living, breathing spectrum of consciousness between personal authenticity and collective understanding. If our individual expression is not about a personal journey, but instead a dynamic interaction with collective awareness then our sense of self is sole defined by external social parameters, or the lack thereof.
Some of us may achieve a balance between expression and suppression with great ease. For others it could be a lifelong battle, uphill both ways to feel even the slightest bit of confidence. The five- eleven axis is a give and take of the truest parts of yourself and the part of you that seeks validation and acceptance in the world. Without the comparison of what others may think, we should go about life living as we please with no question or second guessing.
It is the reflection of the potential scrutiny and judgement from society that seems to play a lead role in shaping our unique expression. It is about what not to do just as much as it is about what to do and how our actions conform, or not conform, to the acceptance of the larger group. This reminds me of the Outcaste, an archetypal character who operates outside the normal parameters of society. Normal can only be defined as a fluctuating gradient of universal acceptance. Of course, what is normal depends on when you are asking, who you are asking, and where you are asking.
So, how does your unique expression bring awareness in the world?
Know what signs are in your 5th and 11th houses to help answer this question and explore which signs make up your houses here.
Every ascendant will have a different sign and planetary ruler for the 5th and 11th house. Through astrological symbols and meanings, you can gain an understanding of the energies you are working with when it comes to how your identity is shaped by the boundaries of social acceptance.
