Compatibility Astrology

Definition

The astrological comparison of two natal charts to assess relational dynamics, conducted through synastry (overlay of charts) and composite charts (mathematical midpoints).

Origin

Hellenistic astrologers practiced chart comparison for marriage matches by the 2nd century CE. Modern synastry techniques were systematised in 20th-century practice, especially by Stephen Arroyo, Liz Greene and Robert Hand.

Development

Synastry overlays two natal charts and reads the aspects between them: where each person's planets sit in the other's houses, what aspects connect their planets, where their nodes meet. The composite chart treats the couple itself as a third entity with its own chart.

In Practice

Sun-sign compatibility ("Are Leos compatible with Scorpios?") is the least informative form of astrological compatibility. Useful analysis compares full charts: shared moon-sign elements, Venus-Mars contacts, Saturn aspects (commitment-testing), and house overlays.

Deeper Reading

Compatibility readings work best when treated as diagnostic rather than predictive: they describe the dynamics that will arise rather than whether the relationship will "work." The hardest aspects often produce the most growth; the easiest can become complacent.

See Also

• synastry
• astrological compatibility
• compatibilidad astrológica