Virgo is one of the 12 zodiac signs in astrology and corresponds to those born between August 23 and September 22. Virgo is represented by the virgin or maiden and is considered a feminine, mutable, and earth sign. There are a few key reasons why Virgo is associated with virginity:
The Constellation Virgo
The constellation Virgo is one of the original 48 constellations listed by the astronomer Ptolemy in the 2nd century. In ancient Greek mythology, Virgo was sometimes identified with Persephone, the daughter of Demeter who was the goddess of the harvest. Persephone was abducted by Hades and taken to the underworld. During this time, Demeter grieved and the earth became barren. When Persephone was finally returned, Demeter’s joy caused the earth to become fruitful again. This myth connects Virgo with themes of innocence, purity, and new beginnings.
The constellation Virgo is often depicted as a woman holding a shaft of wheat, representing the harvest. This image evokes associations with fertility and life renewing itself. However, the woman in Virgo remains unmarried and untouched, alluding to virginity. Virgo was sometimes identified not just with Persephone but with other virgin goddesses of Greek mythology like Athena, Artemis, and Hestia who embodied purity and femininity.
Association with Virgin Mary
During the Middle Ages, the constellation Virgo became associated with the Virgin Mary. Mary was the mother of Jesus Christ and was believed to have miraculously conceived as a virgin through the Holy Spirit. The connection between Virgo and Mary established the sign’s strong connotations of virginity, chastity, and purity which continue to this day.
This association was encouraged by the resemblance of the Virgo glyph to an M which is the first letter of “Maria” or Mary in Latin. Catholic church leaders like Jerome of Stridon promoted Virgo as a virtuous sign representing Mary’s virginity and the Nativity. Virgo’s harvest connections were linked to themes of fertility, life, and motherhood in Mary. This cemented the idea of Virgo being the “heavenly virgin”.
Personality Traits of Virgo
In astrological interpretations, those born under the Virgo zodiac sign are often described as having traits associated with purity and propriety. For example, Virgos are typically seen as:
- Modest and shy
- Practical and analytical
- Discreet and sensible
- Particular and discerning
- Restrained in romance
- Careful and cautious
This personality profile resonates strongly with images of virginity which represents sexual innocence and inexperience. Virgos are perceived as prone to virginity due to their controlled, predictable, and prim outward behavior. The reticence and discernment of Virgo makes them selective about intimacy and sexuality compared to other more passionate signs.
Mutable Earth Sign
As a mutable sign, Virgo is adaptable and flexible which are qualities sometimes associated with youth and inexperience. Mutable signs are seen as changeable and impressionable in contrast to fixed signs that are more stubborn and set in their ways. This mutable nature preserves some of the “youthfulness” of Virgo well into adulthood.
Virgo is also an earth sign which is aligned with femininity, realism, and practicality. Unlike more dramatic water signs or fiery signs, earth signs have a grounded and dependable nature. The combination of mutable and earth energy enhances Virgo’s reputation for being innocent, untouched, and pure.
Corresponds with House of Health
In astrological charts, Virgo is connected to the 6th House of Health and Service. This house governs areas like physical well-being, routine, work ethic, and hygiene. Virgo’s affiliation with health has connotations of being clean, fresh, and wholesome. This contributes to why Virgo is seen as an unspoiled and pure sign.
Ruled by Mercury
Virgo’s planetary ruler is Mercury which influences the sign’s communication style and intellect. Mercury’s effects make Virgos logical, systematic thinkers who analyze information in detail. This can manifest as being self-critical, anxious about imperfections, and preoccupied with flaws.
Virgo’s mercurial nature gives them an attitude of constant improvement and refinement. They approach life with the precision of a perfectionist. This enhances the impression of Virgos being particular, selective, and in some ways “immature” in their idealism which connects to virginity themes.
Opposite Sign is Pisces
In astrology, every sign has an “opposite sign” that it is always 180 degrees away from on the zodiac wheel. Virgo’s opposite sign is Pisces which are the “fish” in astrology. Pisces is associated with fantasy, romanticism, and mystical spiritual matters.
In contrast, Virgos are more logical, grounded, and practical. Virgos are seen as “virginal” partly by being measured relative to the “sexier” and more sensual Pisces. The innocent quality of Virgo stands out against the eroticism of Pisces which highlights why virginity is a key trait of this sign.
Conclusion
In summary, Virgo’s connection to virginity stems from several factors:
- The constellation Virgo depicts a maiden figure from Greek myths like Persephone who embodied purity.
- Virgin Mary associations established Virgo as a Christian symbol of virginity and virtue.
- Virgo personality is modest, discerning, and particular when it comes to sexuality.
- As a mutable earth sign, Virgo is adaptable, feminine, and practical.
- Virgo’s affiliation with health and wellness conveys wholesomeness.
- Virgo’s mercurial intellect makes them analytical and perfectionistic.
- Opposite Pisces represents erotic fantasy compared to Virgo’s innocence.
So while the connection between Virgo and virginity may be partly stereotypical, it also has origins in the sign’s history, mythological connections, astrological placements, and even contrast with its opposite Pisces. The virgin association has endured with Virgo since ancient times and remains a key part of this zodiac sign’s identity.