Is Ophiuchus the 13th Constellation of the Zodiac? A New 13th Sign?
Who or What is Ophiuchus?
Despite the astronomers of Babylonia discovering Ophiuchus in the 12th century BCE and the Greeks around the same time, astrologers do not officially recognize the sign of Ophiuchus as the 13th zodiac starsign. However, this large constellation does exist towards the southern part of the Milky Way, and some consider it to be a thirteenth starsign. Therefore, the question is: is Ophiuchus a real starsign?
Ancient Babylon developed the system we now call the sidereal zodiac over 2,000 years ago, recognizing only 12 signs corresponding to the positions of the Sun and planets along the ecliptic. Although the thirteenth zodiac sign does partially lie along the edge of the ecliptic, it was never included in this zodiac system because its location was not viewed as significant as it was not fully within the ecliptic. The 12 signs of the tropical zodiac we use today are based on the Earth’s seasons and the vernal equinox which relates to the fact that the Sun is exactly above the equator giving equal day and night times twice a year.
Ophiuchus the New 13th Zodiac Sign?
Although it is not widely recognised, it is considered by some to be a thirteenth star sign. The zodiac normally comprises twelve constellations positioned on the Sun’s path, the path that the Sun follows across the sky throughout the year, known as ‘the ecliptic’.
However, there are actually 88 constellations recognised by the International Astronomical Union or the IAU. However, not all of them have astrological significance. There are only about 26 constellations that are commonly associated with different astro systems and play a role in defining the zodiac signs.
Those interested in astronomy and astrologers have debated the creation of an additional star sign. The inclusion of Ophiuchus would require adjusting the dates associated with each sign, which would significantly alter an individual’s sign and horoscope.
Throughout history, the constellation of Ophiuchus has been depicted in various ways, such as a serpent-holder or a healer, by different cultures. Despite not being an official zodiac sign, Ophiuchus is a real constellation in the night sky, renowned for its bright stars and unique shape. Its existence highlights the vast and complex Universe, with many mysteries yet to uncover.
Those born under the sign of Ophiuchus may be dynamic, intuitive, and driven by a strong desire to unravel life’s secrets. Their unique blend of traits adds depth to their character and their personalities are normally a blend of Scorpio and Sagittarius.
What are the Ophiuchus Starsign Dates?
Ophiuchus, the Serpent-Bearer, represents a lesser-known astrological sign positioned between the constellations of Scorpius and Sagittarius. It symbolizes healing, transformation, and rejuvenation. People born under this sign possess intuition, passion, and an unwavering love for knowledge. Adopting 13 constellations as a zodiacal system would require other starsigns to adjust their dates, including poor Scorpios, who would have only 4 days to call their own.
Including the zodiacal constellation Ophiuchus the serpent bearer as the thirteenth sign, has been the subject of much debate and controversy among astrologers. It is believed that the alignment of the stars has shifted, and what we know as the zodiac calendar has been off by approximately one month since ancient times.
Consequently, the starsigns associated with each month may not align exactly as they used to, making it necessary to account for the shift in the earth’s alignment by adding a thirteenth sign. Despite these debates, studying the principles of this ancient sign has helped many individuals who identify with the Serpent gain a deeper understanding of themselves and their personality traits.
Change the Zodiac Dates for All Starsigns in the 13th Constellation System Ophiuchus
The name Ophiuchus comes from the Greek word Ophioukhos which translates as serpent bearer. It is represented as a woman or man wrestling with a serpent and its Sun cycle is shorter than most other zodiacal signs being November 29 to December 17. Or November 30 and December 18 each year according to some.
Revised New Zodiac Dates
Aries ( ELEMENT FIRE | RULER MARS )
DOB 12 – Mar 21 – Apr 20 | DOB 13 – Apr 18 – May 13
Taurus ( ELEMENT EARTH | RULER VENUS )
DOB 12 – Apr 21 – May 21 | DOB 13 – May 14 – Jun 21
Gemini ( ELEMENT AIR | RULER MERCURY )
DOB 12 – May 22 – Jun 21 | DOB 13 – Jun 22 – Jul 20
Cancer ( ELEMENT WATER | RULER MOON )
DOB 12 – Jun 22 – Jul 22 | DOB 13 – Jul 21 – Aug 10
Leo ( ELEMENT FIRE | RULER SUN )
DOB 12 – Jul 23 – Aug 22 | DOB 13 – Aug 11 – Sep 15
Virgo ( ELEMENT EARTH | RULER MERCURY )
DOB 12 – Aug 23 – Sep 22 | DOB 13 – Sep 16 – Oct 30
Libra ( ELEMENT AIR | RULER VENUS )
DOB 12 – Sep 23 – Oct 22 | DOB 13 – Oct 31 -Nov 23
Scorpio ( ELEMENT WATER | RULER MARS )
DOB 12 – Oct 23 – Nov 22 | DOB 13 – Nov 24 – Nov 28
Ophiuchus ( ELEMENT FIRE | RULER JUPITER )
DOB 13 – Nov 29 – Dec 17 but some say Nov 30 – Dec 18
Sagittarius ( ELEMENT FIRE | RULER JUPITER )
DOB 12 – Nov 23 – Dec 21 | DOB 13 – Dec 18 – Jan 20
Capricorn ( ELEMENT EARTH | RULER SATURN )
DOB 12 – Dec 22 – Jan 20 | DOB 13 – Jan 21 – Feb 16
Aquarius ( ELEMENT AIR | RULER SATURN )
DOB 12 – Jan 21 – Feb 19 | DOB 13 – Feb 17 – Mar 11
Pisces ( ELEMENT WATER | RULER JUPITER )
DOB 12 – Feb 20 – Mar 20 | DOB 13 – Mar 12 – Apr 17
The Brightest Star in the Constellation
Ophiuchus’ brightest star is Rasalhague, and it marks the head of Ophiuchus the Serpent Bearer. It has also been associated with certain esoteric healing qualities in ancient mythology and folklore.
According to some ancient myths, star Rasalhague was associated with medicine and healing and was said to possess magical properties that could be used for medicinal purposes. In some cultures, the star was also associated with knowledge, wisdom, and spiritual and mystical practices.
In ancient Greek mythology, Asclepius, son of Apollo discovered if he concocted a healing potion by combining Gorgon’s blood and an unknown herb together with serpent venom, he could use it to cure ailments and resurrect the dead. However, his abilities angered the Gods, leading to his transformation into the constellation Ophiuchus, forever tending to the cosmic serpent in the night sky.
The NASA Rumour – Do You Have to Change Your Star Sign?
Is it true that according to NASA, they discovered a 13th sign of the Zodiac? Not really; it’s just a viral story that NASA added this sign, and it is incorrect as NASA doesn’t deal in astrology. Furthermore, the discovery of this thirteenth ‘zodiac sign,’ known as Ophiuchus, is not new.
Ophiuchus was discovered by the Babylonians or the Ancient Greeks thousands of years ago. It is another astrological constellation system that does not affect Western Astrology. Dozens of different astrology systems have sprung out of the Babylonian and Greek systems. You can change your sign if you wish to!
What Does Rose Smith think about Ophiuchus?
“Firstly, people should use the astrological system they feel comfortable with. It’s a case of ‘horses for courses.’ Secondly, the addition of Ophiuchus as a 13th astrological sign to the 12th constellation system would affect many people who would have to accept a different starsign with different dates. I am one, and I do not relate much to the proposed Mutable Earth sign, so I’ll be sticking to the 12 constellation astro system, however, do follow the strongest vibe for you”.
So is Ophiuchus a real starsign – in this Studio 10 interview, psychic Rose Smith explains how the Western Astrology system can be stunningly accurate if you know your date, place, and time of birth. So, you can be rest assured your star sign hasn’t changed.
