An Introduction to the Earth Signs of the Zodiac

When it comes to the signs of the zodiac, which element represents them says a lot about who the people under each sign are. Water signs are the ones more likely to go with the flow, but are also emotionally inclined. Fire signs are hot-headed, but also passionate and driven. Air signs may sometimes have their heads in the clouds, but they are also the great communicators of the zodiac. With all that in mind, it makes sense that earth signs would have some earthy properties.

So, when we think of the earth, what are some things that come to mind? Grounded and stable are two big keywords when it comes to the three signs of the zodiac that are ruled by the element of earth. Of course, those are the positive traits – we all know each sign and each element also comes with negative traits as well – but we’ll look at that more when talking about the three signs that fall in this category.

Taurus the Bull

There is a reason why Taurus is represented by the bull, and it’s not just because the constellation resembles this horned beast – it’s also because Taurians are notorious for being “bull-headed.” Their stubbornness may come from the fact that they are a fixed sign. Now, that’s not always a bad thing – being headstrong and standing your ground, much like a steady oak tree, can be good traits as well as negative ones.

When grounded, by the earth they are ruled by, Taurians are known to be quite relaxed individuals. They enjoy the quiet and solitude – the perfect folks to run away and live deep in the woods where they can feel as though they are one with the earth.

Virgo the Virgin

Because of Virgo's connection with the “virgin,” many people initially think of this sign as being the sweet and innocent folks of the zodiac, but they have a deep association with the earth. Depending on your research, Virgo could be represented by a plethora of Goddesses.

The Virgin could be Astraea, the daughter of two Titans of Greek mythology, and known as the “Star-Maiden.” Astraea spent time on earth, during The Golden Age of Man, a time in Greek mythology when the earth was a utopia of peace and harmony. However, as the story goes, Zeus gained control of the Titans, and the Utopia was gone – the sadness and suffering caused Astraea to return to the stars.

Demeter, who is the Goddess of Wheat and Agriculture in the Greek pantheon, as well as Zeus’ daughter Persephone, could also be where the likeness comes from. No matter which Goddess you prefer, know that it’s likely this sign is akin to lying on the ground staring up at the night sky. They are the mutable sign of the earth, ever-changing their path.

Capricorn the Goat

Represented by the goat, one would easily see Capricorn as an earthy sign, but oftentimes the symbol is actually a sea goat – a goat with a fishy tale – which would make this sign seem more fluid and watery. Of course, even the bottom of the ocean has sand and dirt! Mountains and gorgeous grassy fields, or underwater lands like Atlantis, the goats like to have their feet on the ground – they are known to be stable.

These hardworking goats like to stay busy and have something on their plates at all times -- they are a cardinal sign, the leaders of the earth signs. While they’re prone to burnout because they are driven, their practical side can help them find some industrious hobbies that allow them time in their element, whether it’s hiking, gardening, or going for a swim.