The Astrological Houses: The Spectrum of Individual Experience

by Dane Rudhyar

In all his works, Dane Rudhyar's main preoccupation has been to integrate various fields of human knowledge into a consistent and well organized whole, and to build foundations of thought needed for the development of global society. In this context, he has sought to develop a theory of "humanistic" astrology that would bring this ancient and controversial science to a level of thinking at which it can be fully accepted today. He broadens the entire concept of astrology by applying to it his extensive knowledge of Oriental as well as western philosophy, and Jungian psychology.

This book deals with the astrological houses. Using the houses—which he defines as "archetypal categories of experience" through which an individual passes during the course of his life—as a frame of reference, Rudhyar seeks to define and interpret the relationship of individuals to the entire universe, "so that they may be able to fulfill both their essential individuality and their destiny—i.e. their place and function in the universe."

Genres: Astrology, Occult, Nonfiction, Psychology, Reference, Spirituality, Philosophy

208 pages, Paperback

First published December 1, 1972

About the author

French-American astrologer, one of the most noted and respected astrologers of the 20th century.

He was called a modern renaissance man for his ability to express himself in many fields; music, painting, poetry, philosophy and metaphysics.

He wrote for national magazines since the '30s and was the author of many books.

Reviews

[Solo · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a classic in the field of psychological astrology.

Rudhyar's writing is illuminating. His association of the houses with the stages of psychological development of man during his lifetime, is both, logical and intuitive.

I really appreciate his explanation of the Horizon and the Meridian (the 1st/7th axis and the 4th/10th axis). The Water houses in general tend to be elusive, the 4th especially so, but Rudhyar's insight helped clarify a lot of misconceptions. Mundane meanings might work at a concrete level, but as an a student of astrology it is important to understand the deeper meaning behind the external manifestations of experience which are generally associated with each house.

His writing style might seem a little heavy for young readers, but it's not archaic or anything. Pretty straightforward if you have the patience to stay focused.

Recommended for students of astrology.

[Liquidlasagna]

Marc Lerner recommends these Dane Rudhyar books:

1 Astrological Signs
2 The Astrology of Personality
3 The Astrological Houses
4 The Lunation Cycle
5 Astrological Mandalas
6 An Astrological Study of Psychological Complexes (Advanced)
7 Triptych (Advanced)

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Okay book

It's a little boring unless you are very new at astrology, it can feel boring. The acendant isn't included. Thank you.

[peatrycze pergolette · Rating 4 out of 5]

i got so tired of all astrology takes made in social media so i truly appreciate this read for more profound attempt to understand basics of reading a natal chart. there were moments when it was just a mix of different cultures without a concret. but mostly it refreshed my approach to certain archetypes that may be not that popular in the Internet. I've never connected the dots between astrology and Jungian personality types on my own but here it is.

[DeanJean · Rating 3 out of 5]

Some interesting esoteric ideas about the houses here. Appreciate his attempt, but his philosophic musings can leave the reader befuddled and bored.

[Meghan Castro · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you’re wanting to understand the astrological houses in depth, this book is a great, as well as thorough read.

[Federica · Rating 4 out of 5]

Illuminating interpretation of the astrological houses on a very deep and philosophical level. Definitely recommend it.

[Chad Allen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Illuminating though difficult to grasp more often than not. I bought this book in a used bookstore in Portland, Maine ; they don’t make ‘em like this anymore.

[Sebastian · Rating 1 out of 5]

One of the worst books ever written.
After an excruciating first chapter, I started the second about the houses. Finished the section on the First House and got nothing of value so I stopped reading.
I expected to get some factual information about the houses but got nothing except a pseudo intellectual mix of bad philosophy, dumb theology, cheap history and meaningless metaphysics. Not even a history of astrological houses here. There are some facts but they're needles in a haystack of deluded ideas.
Nothing of value here, just an incompetent thinker writing his worthless thoughts.
Astrology doesn't need skeptics when idiots like the author of this book exist.

[Alexandra Arroyo-Acevedo · Rating 5 out of 5]

In true Mercury in Pisces style, Dane Rudhyar's writing style is very mystical and abstract. He is not a quick, tangible read. However, if you can diffuse yourself into the landscapes he creates, he offers a chronological perspective on the houses unlike any other. Rather than providing a simple chart saying "1H is identity, next!", he takes you through the life cycle of development and how each house relates to a each stage of development on this earth. His approach has lent an intuitive sophistication to my personal approach to astrology.

[Blair · Rating 3 out of 5]

Sometimes over my head, but often interesting and insightful.

[Hannah]

got halfway through Sept 2017