Mercury moves quickly as it orbits the Sun. Astrologically, Mercury thinks fast, it is the ruler of communication and logic in a variety of forms. Although the planet Mercury is the planet closest to the Sun, Mercury is not the hottest planet because it does not have an atmosphere. This also seems to go with the light quickness we associate with Mercury’s impact as it moves around the zodiac. From the perspective of Earth, Mercury is never more than 28 degrees away from the Sun. This is one reason astrologers think of Mercury as the Messenger between realms, the one that can bring messages to the gods.
Mercury represents logic, thought processes and communication. The energy of Mercury is light and fast.
Mercury is not associated with the masculine or the feminine. It is neutral and can be either Yin or Yang depending on its sign placement and the planets that it’s with. Mercury was classified as Cold and Dry by the ancients. Mercury was associated with the Nervous temperament and Air.
Mercury is neither benefic or malefic. Mercury does not belong to Day or Night. When Mercury is a Morning Star, it belongs to the Day sect. When Mercury is an Evening Star, it belongs to the Night sect.
Rulership
Mercury has Domicile rulership of Gemini and Virgo. Gemini is a sign of communication and hands-on learning. Gemini is a sign where Mercury can be quick thinking and communicative and connected with the local community. As the messenger that can pass into all worlds, Mercury is at home here in Gemini.
Mercury is in both Domicile and Exaltation rulership in Virgo. Virgo is a specialist that dives the details and the components but also takes a systematic view. This systematic thinking helps to stabilize Mercury and ground it in a routine. This can be helpful to stabilize Mercury’s quick energy.
Mercury is in Detriment in Sagittarius and Pisces. Sagittarius is adventurous and exploratory. Sagittarius can overlook what it grew up with as it looks for something better, something more universal or worldly. Mercury is far from home in Sagittarius.
Mercury is in Detriment and Fall in Pisces. Pisces is amorphous and emotionally sensitive. Mercury is logical, intellectual and detail oriented. Mercury can feel lost and muddled in Pisces, much less quick moving and more unsure.
Although Mercury is not tied to a particular sect, Mercury is the Triplicity ruler of Air in a Night chart.
Vibrational Astrology
In Vibrational Astrology, Mercury is associated with communication, thought processes and the intellect. When Mercury is in a three planet pattern, it wants to communicate or use logic to understand or relay its understanding.
References:
Mercury NASA Overview
Greek Medicine – Qualities of Planets
Sect of Mercury: “Ancient Astrology in Theory and Practice: A Manual of Traditional Techniques. Volume One: Assessing Planetary Condition” by Demetra George