influence of the second aspect. The term was much used by ancient writers, but unfortunately
has been neglected by modern astrologers -- other than those who practice Horary astrology.
v. Frustration.
Benefic. The aspects based on 3 are said to be benefic in their influence, though much
depends upon the character of the planets involved. The Trine joins harmonious signs; the
Sextile, those reasonably congenial.
Malefic. Those based on 2, combine signs that are less congenial, and operate generally at
cross-purposes, hence are termed malefic. Modern astrologers tend to prefer malefic aspects
between harmonious planets, to benefic aspects between malefic planets - but this enters into
the realm of interpretation where mathematics yields to psychology. A planet thus aspected,
particularly if by a malefic planet, is said to be afflicted.
Latitude, Parallels of. Latitude is measured in degrees of arc N. or S. of the Ecliptic. It is
reasonable to assume that planets conjoined in latitude as well as longitude will impart a
stronger accent than when at different distances above the ecliptic. The Zodiacal Parallel is a
latitudinal aspect. Older authorities considered a Parallel effective between one planet in
North and another in South Latitude, but modern authorities largely agree that both bodies
must be on the same side of the Ecliptic. Within orbs of 1° it is a powerful influence, greatly
intensifying the effect of a conjunction. On rare occasions, when planets are close to their
nodes of intersection with the ecliptic, a parallel may result in an eclipse between planets. The
eclipse of a planet by the Moon is of more frequent occurrence, and is termed an Occultation
(q.v.).
Declination, Parallel of. This is the same phenomenon as a Parallel of Latitude, except that
longitudinal position is measured along the Equator in terms of Right Ascension, while
latitudinal position is computed in terms of declination, measured in degrees N. or S. of the
Equator instead of along the Ecliptic.
MUNDANE ASPECTS are those reckoned along the Equator, and measured in subdivisions
of the nocturnal or diurnal semi-arc. For example: Any two planets that have a separation of
two houses are in mundane Sextile; of four houses, in mundane Trine. Thus it is possible for
two planets to be simultaneously in the mutual relationship of a mundane Trine and a
zodiacal Square. Mundane aspects can be computed only on a map erected for a birth
moment. They represent a computation of coincidental influences on a basis of time, in
subdivisions of the Earth's period of rotation; instead of on a basis of degrees of arc, in
subdivisions of the orbits of the bodies involved. Zodiacal Aspects, based on the degree of
longitudinal separation along the ecliptic, are computed without reference to an hour of birth,