Article: The Many Faces of Venus
What do you think of when you hear the name Venus? Visions of love, romance, and beauty are usually what permeate everyone’s thoughts. Did you know that Venusian energy is also about finances and what you value?
Venus, like all the other planets, cycles through the zodiac, meaning it will go through all twelve signs at one time or another. The planet of love, beauty, and finances also goes retrograde approximately every eighteen months.
Venus in the Signs
Let’s take a look at how Venus manifests while she’s in each astrological sign.
Aries
When the goddess of love is in the sign of Aries, a cardinal fire sign, you may be more impulsive. Aries is ruled by Mars, an action-oriented planet. Something or someone catches your eye, and you go for it! For example, shopping could be high on your list. If you’re attracted to someone, you don’t waste time. The thinking is, why let the grass grow under my feet? An archetype of Mars is the warrior. When Venus is coupled with this energy, she is passionate, likes fun and spontaneity, and can be a fiercely loyal lover. Venus in the sign of Aries values being straightforward and taking action. The shadow side of Venus in Aries is being impulsive (and regretting it), whatever the circumstances. Try to remember that other people also have wants and needs; consider their opinions before you shut them down.
Taurus
Venus is at home in the sign of Taurus, because this fixed earth sign is ruled by it. When she is here, there is a distinct feeling of slowing down after the transit of Venus in Aries. Beauty, whether it’s a piece of art, clothing, or a flower, is something to slow down and admire. Venus in Taurus values a leisurely pace, one where all five senses are steeped in beauty. You’re more likely to take your time when it comes to making any decisions about matters of the heart or the wallet. Why not enjoy the dating and romance piece as long as you can! When Venus is in Taurus you could have a fairly nice bank account if you’re not filling up your home with stuff. The shadow side of Venus in Taurus is that material things could be extremely important in your life, making you reluctant to ever let anything go.
Gemini
When Venus goes through the sign of Gemini, getting out to play and mingle with others is the name of the game. Gemini is a mutable air sign, ruled by Mercury, the planet known for its communication. When Venus is here, you’re interested in sharing your ideas with others and are curious about what they think. You could be pivoting from one area of amusement to another! The shadow side of Venus in Gemini is that if you get bored, you may find it easier to just quit a job or move on to another area of interest. This also applies to romance. Financially, Venus in Gemini could be quick and easily distracted, making investments difficult to pin down. Money may fly out just as quickly as it flies into your account. I don’t think you’ll give it too much thought though; you know tomorrow is another day, and something interesting could be on the horizon.
Cancer
When Venus glides into the sign of Cancer, you could feel a noticeable slowing down of energy. It may be time to have a family get-together or cozy up with a good book. Cancer is a cardinal water energy and is ruled by the Moon. Sensitivity and intuition can be heightened, so pay attention to your hunches, as well as what feels nurturing for you. You may feel like lavishing your friends and family with hugs and home-cooked meals; just be sure you don’t smother them with all your good intentions. Remember to carve out time to pamper yourself. Beautifying your home may become a priority. Maybe you want to renovate or redecorate. You don’t have to spend a lot. You’ll be happier and feel safer if you have some savings set aside for a rainy day. The shadow side of Venus in Cancer is that you can feel more sensitive and could get your feelings hurt. Try not to shut the door on anyone; instead, have a discussion and explain how you feel. This can lead to more growth and a deeper connection between both parties.
Leo
When Venus enters the sign of Leo, it’s time to set the stage for a party and have a good time! Leo is a fixed fire sign, and it is ruled by the Sun. You appreciate fun and like to play on a big scale. Now is the time to bring some friends together and do it up right! When it comes to beauty, this sign likes sparkle and shine and clothing with patterns that stand out and say, “Here I am!” As for love and romance, you enjoy being appreciated as much as the next person … okay, maybe just a tad more. With Venus in Leo, you’ll want to experience all the rush of a new and exciting love. You may have to be careful and watch your finances when Venus is in this sign. I know you enjoy lavishing your loved ones, but try not to overdo it. The shadow side of Leo is being dramatic. You have been generous with friends but could feel you weren’t thanked properly and feel unappreciated. Try not to let your pride stand in the way of a friendship.
Virgo
Virgo is a mutable earth sign, and it’s ruled by the planet Mercury. When Venus visits here, you can bet she will be practical, meticulous, and hardworking. You’ll want to do your very best; you may even be a bit of a perfectionist when Venus is in Virgo. Romance is great and so is sex, but you’re likely to be more impressed by someone who is putting in a long work week or helping you out around the house. The shadow side of Venus when it’s in Virgo is expecting others to do things just the way you’d do them Try not to be too hard on other people; it may not go over well. Since Virgo is an earth sign, you’ll probably want to get your garden and house tidy and in order.
Libra
When Venus pays a visit to the sign of Libra, you’ll probably want to get out and socialize. Libra is a cardinal air sign, and it’s ruled by Venus, which makes this a comfortable placement for this planet. Going to an art gallery or shopping for a beautiful piece of clothing or jewelry would be appropriate. Your eye will be drawn to articles that are exquisite and probably expensive. When it comes to romance, you’ll be attracted to someone who is good-looking, intelligent, and easy to talk to and share ideas with. Getting along with others and socializing is how Venus in Libra operates. The shadow side of Venus in Libra is going out of your way to be nice to others and losing yourself in the process.
Scorpio
Things could get hot and steamy when Venus moves into the sign of Scorpio. The sign of Scorpio is a fixed water sign and is ruled by Pluto. Beauty is important to everyone, but with this placement, imagine something that has a more mysterious feel to it. When Venus is in this sign, you feel more passionate and could express yourself in an intense manner. Emotions are felt deeply and keenly but are not always easily expressed. It could take some prodding to get you to open up and say what is bothering you. Your likes and dislikes are pronounced; there is no halfway mark. Venus in Scorpio is all about extremes. In the romance department, you will want to feel unmistakable chemistry toward anyone you’re interested in. Sex and passion are undeniably exciting, but make sure you also have some substance in the relationship. When it comes to finances, you could be shrewd and examine all the potential ups and downs of any endeavor. The shadow side of Venus in Scorpio is feeling jealous and possessive and being manipulative.
Sagittarius
When Venus is in the sign of Sagittarius, life can become more playful. The sign of Sagittarius is a mutable fire sign and is ruled by Jupiter. Think fast movement, lively, fun, and freedom. The siren call of far-off lands and adventure beckon to you as Venus dances through this sign. You could be longing to escape and visit new places to learn about other cultures, customs, and beliefs. When it comes to romance, it may be harder to commit to a relationship, as you could want more freedom. Money may be harder to hold onto because you’re feeling generous and playful and not worrying or even thinking about saving for a rainy day.The shadow side of Venus in Sagittarius is not sticking to your commitments.
Capricorn
Venus has a more serious air about her when she enters the sign of Capricorn. The sign of the goat is a cardinal, earthy energy and is ruled by Saturn. There’s a focus on building a career and making plans for the future. Presenting yourself as someone who knows what they’re talking about and commanding respect are important. Being dependable and practical may not be glamourous, but everyone appreciates when the work is correct and done on time. Venus is still Venus though, and she still enjoys romance. You’ll want someone you can discuss important matters with. When Venus is in Capricorn, you’re apt to be attracted to someone who is stable, reliable, and loyal. Find someone who is either already established or someone who will be supportive of your endeavours. An older person may be very attractive now. When it comes to finances, you will be careful how and where your hard-earned dollars go. As for the shadow side of Capricorn, you may not come up for any air. You’re too busy working and making money to have any fun.
Aquarius
Aquarius is a fixed air sign ruled by the planet Uranus. When Venus enters this sign, she appreciates a variety of friendships. She values community and differences. You’ll value independent thinking and people who view life through a unique lens. Getting together to share ideas with individuals from all walks of life excites you! If you’re in the market for romance, when Venus is in this air sign, you could be attracted to someone more for their mind than anything else. Venus in Aquarius wants space and freedom to explore and talk to an assortment of diverse people. The more conversations and ideas, the better. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and when Venus is here, you may be attracted to objects that are more avant-garde. The value this Venus placement puts on money is that it is a tool that allows you to enjoy a variety of experiences. The challenge when Venus is in Aquarius is being stubborn and not seeing another person’s viewpoint. When problems arise, you could detach from emotions and want to think your way out of an emotional problem.
Pisces
When Venus takes her place in the sign of Pisces, she relaxes and exudes empathy and sensitivity. Pisces is a mutable water sign ruled by Neptune. Venus in Pisces values intuition, spirituality, creativity, and being compassionate to others. In the romance department, if you find yourself falling for someone, you’ll probably be all in. Just beware … the rose-colored glasses you’re wear- ing could be skewing your perception. When Venus is here, you feel called to extend your compassion and empathy toward others. Be loving and generous, just don’t burn yourself out trying to be there for everyone. Remember to take time out to nurture yourself, too. Finances can be a little trickier when Venus is here because your feelings could inspire you to make some purchases that may be more flash than substance. Take all things into con- sideration when spending and planning your budget. Make sure your finances are balanced with some fun and beauty as well as practicality. If you need to, talk with a friend who will be honest with you and help you stay on track. The shadow of Venus in Pisces is being too giving and letting your feelings take over.
Venus Reflections
As you can see, Venus enjoys playing in a variety of ways as she travels through the different signs. When she moves into another sign, pay attention to how you feel when Venus lights up different areas of your life. This will give you a glimpse of how you may respond when Venus changes signs. Remember, Venus is one of the benefics. Everyone will experience her blessings in distinctive and fascinating ways. Enjoy the many faces of Venus!
Excerpted from Llewellyn’s 2025 Moon Sign Book.
