The Rising Sign (also known as the Ascendant) is the zodiac constellation sign that is rising on the eastern horizon at the term of birth. It is one of the most pivotal and important parts of astrology as it represents the arrival of the incarnation on Earth. The Rising sign is important as it marks the beginning of the road map of the entire Birth Horoscope.
The sign that is rising represents and rules the 1st house of the horoscope. It is the beginning of the road map of signs ruling each house around the birth chart. The Ascending sign is important because it is the most basic part of the personality that we are inspired to take action on. In many circles of Astrology it is believed the Ascendant is Karmic because it represents the actions we are incarnated to take before anything else.
The ascending sign influences the self expression, behavior, attitude in life, the mannerisms one shows and the actions one is motivated to take. The sign that is rising on the horizon at the time of Birth also has an affect on various traits of the physical body and how it appears. The face being the most influenced as the 1st house rules over it directly. The sign that rises in the horizon can also have impact on the body style, shape, complexion and how one likes to appear and dress the physical body.
While the sign that is rising can have a major influence on the physical constitution it is important to realize it is not all that can influence the appearance. Genetics still will play a large role traits of the physical body. Planets in the 1st house can also go a long way in modifying features of the physical body appearance. These planets can also modify the behavior style and desire for action in the life. It's important to study the entire chart to make a true assessment. This book was written with intention to describe the most basic way a Rising Sign will manifest in the life.
