Retrograde Motion
When a significator appears to walk backward in the sky, it is said to be retrograde; in horary this is a marked sign of weakness.
What does it mean?
A retrograde significator is weakened: a reluctant, hesitant party that draws back. Rather than moving forward, it goes backward from where it stands.
A modern reading
Like someone who changes their mind, retracts a promise, or wishes to return to an old decision or an earlier state of affairs. Instead of progressing, the matter winds back to the beginning.
Going back on one's word
If two significators are about to reach an agreement and one of them stations (stops before turning) and turns retrograde, the agreement is never completed. A strong negative testimony (a piece of evidence in the chart): withdrawal, and a matter left unfinished.
The Moon never goes retrograde
An important fact: the Moon is never retrograde. The Moon can only move faster or slower; it is never described as retrograde.
Do not confuse these
A 'cadent house' is a house position (3, 6, 9, 12); a planet's retrogradation is a separate question of direction. And do not confuse either of them with the essential debility of fall, which comes from the sign — that is a different concept altogether.
Sample question: Will the person with whom we agreed keep their promise?
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