Libra is the seventh astrological sign in the Zodiac, originating from the constellation of Libra. In western astrology, this sign is no longer aligned with the constellation as a result of the precession of the equinoxes. In astrology, Libra is considered a "masculine", positive (extrovert) sign. It is also considered an air sign and is one of four cardinal signs. Libra is ruled by the planet Venus (which also rules Taurus). It is governed by the 7th House (House of Love & Relationships).

Individuals born when the Sun was in this sign are considered Libra individuals. Under the tropical zodiac, the Sun enters Libra around September 23 - 24 and exits around October 22 - 23. Under the sidereal zodiac, it ends on November 15.

Libra, also known as The Scales of Balance, is the only symbol of the zodiac that is inanimate, i.e. it is not represented by an animal or person.

Mythology
In mythology Libra is often associated with the Greek Goddess of Justice, Themis, the Greek mythological figure of Atalanta (meaning balanced), and Astraea (daughter of Themis), who ascended to heaven and became the constellation of Virgo, and carried the scales of justice, the nearby constellation of Libra.

Libra is also associated with the Greco-Roman goddess Aphrodite/Venus and sometimes also the goddesses Eris/Discordia, along with Hermione/Concordia, Hera/Juno, Ishtar, Freyja and Frigg, and the Aztec god Xolotl.

The astrological symbol for Libra represents the scales. Many modern astrologers regard it as the most desirable of zodiacal types because it represents the zenith of the year, the high point of the seasons, when the harvest of all the hard work of the spring is reaped.

Associated traits
The following traits are widely associated with this sign.

• Diplomatic / compromising however possibly manipulative
• Cooperative
• Fair / balanced / impartial
• Idealistic (in relationships)
• Charming
• Sociable and easy-going, love having people around them.
• Indecisive / changeable
• Peace loving
• Elegant / graceful
• Refined / artistic / good taste
• Pleasure oriented
• Gentle
• Sensitive to others
• Analytical, clear-minded and logical, however still manages to be gullible and influenceable, naive.
• Kind
• Cheerful
• Romantic, strongly interested in the opposite sex.
• Flirty / frivolous however loyal in marriage

Linda Goodman defines Libra as a rather vacillating sign, where a native is trying to find balance while moving through a whole gamut of unbalanced states. As such they may occasionally be quarrelsome, annoying, confused, depressed etc.

Physical traits
Many astrologers believe that each of the twelve signs has identifiable physical traits. Some of them consider that physically, individuals born under the sign of Libra supposedly tend to have a graceful figure, a charming appearance, refined features, a high forehead, and a 'trademark' dimple.

Compatibilities
Libra is widely thought to be compatible with the same element signs, Aquarius, Gemini, and Libra itself.

There are many variables that determine compatibility in astrology, such as birth dates, birth months, birth years, position of a sign within the Sun, the Moon, houses, etc. The signs listed as compatible with Libra do not reflect an individual profile or individual reading as interpreted within astrology, but rather reflect a general guideline and reference to compatibility as dictated by variables such as Qualities and Elements within the Zodiac.

Correspondences
The following items are traditionally associated with Libra:

• The Indian equivalent of Libra is Tula.
• The Chinese equivalent is thought to be the idealistic, fair-minded Dog, whose lunar month is 8 October - 7 November.
• The corresponding month in the Babylonian calendar is Tišritum, dedicated to Shamash (the Sun).