18:33 · These are the most common drawn or handwritten graphs for the zodiac sign Scorpio. The sign is more common in printed texts. The symbol representing this section of the zodiac is a scorpion about to sting its assailant. According to some sources the graph is derived from the Hebrew letter mem, with a scorpion's tail added. Other sources suggest that the diagonal, upward pointing arrow represents Mars, , the sign's ruling planet according to the old astrological tradition. (As is often the case in astrological and other symbolism, both elements are in fact incorporated in the same sign.)
    The sun enters the sign of Scorpio around October 23, and exits again around November 21. Traditionally, is closely associated with birth, the sexual act, and death. Western astrologers consider individuals born with the sun in this sign to be characterized by decisiveness, determination, strong will, and, if they are hurt, vindictiveness. Scorpios are also believed to have an almost hypnotic power over others by means of their gaze.
    According to the old tradition, Mars is the ruling planet of Scorpio. When, however, the planet Pluto had been discovered in 1930, astrologers in the West (those in India have chosen not to incorporate Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto into their system) changed the ruling planet of to Pluto.
    The planets and are considered badly placed in . Scorpio belongs to the quadruplicity of fixed signs, which means that those born in this sign are supposed to be consequential, loyal and trustworthy, followers of tradition, and persistent. See in Group 30 for more data about the fixed quality.
    As for the triplicities belongs to the watery element, symbolized by . Those born in a sign belonging to the element of water are supposed to be dominated by their feelings, to be very sensitive and reserved, and to have a great ability or propensity to empathize with others. Their feelings dominate their intellect. For further data about the astrological element of water, see in Group 28.
     The alchemists used to signify the process of separation.
    See the sections on alchemy in the Appendices for data about this process.