Grand Cross

Synonym: Grand Square

An aspect figure in which four planets are situated at angles of 90 degrees to each other, thus forming a closed square. This also means that two pairs of planets also stand in opposition. The Grand Cross usually connects four cardinal, fixed or mutable signs (Quality). It is also sometimes called a Grand Square.

The figure itself gives the impression of possessing great stability but also inflexibility. The Grand Cross is considered to be a strong analytical aspect. It symbolises an unavoidable challenge. Meeting this challenge demands considerable dedication and effort. The stability inherent in the Grand Cross usually indicates a willingness to overcome the obstacles faced and is therefore an opportunity to tackle difficult themes and to grow and master them. However, if the stability becomes stubbornness there is a danger of missing the right moment to move on, or resolving a situation by using inappropriate force. When one of the planets forming the Grand Cross is triggered by a transiting planet then all the other planets in the figure are also affected - either by conjunction, square or opposition. This makes this aspect figure especially powerful. For this reason it is important to be consciously aware of its inherent qualities to avoid the danger of taking excessive action.