Sabian Symbols · Sagittarius · Degree 3 of 30
Sagittarius 3°
The traditional symbol for this degree, one of the 360 Sabian symbols first recorded in 1925: “Two men, at ease in an old study, settle into a long, unhurried game of chess.”
THE SYMBOL
“Two men, at ease in an old study, settle into a long, unhurried game of chess.”
Sagittarius 3° · Sabian symbols, devised 1925 (Marc Edmund Jones, clairvoyant Elsie Wheeler)
Remember to round up: a planet or point at 9°30′ takes the 10° symbol, not the 9° one.
What this degree describes
Not a physical contest, this is a whole campaign fought entirely inside two minds trying to out-think each other several moves ahead. Sagittarius is often mistaken for a sign of pure impulse, but here it slows all the way down into strategy and the pleasure of a long, honest contest between equals. Every move is a small bet on a belief about how the other person thinks; the game only works because both players respect the rules enough to actually play it straight.
When a planet or point falls here
A planet at this degree often shows a mind that enjoys thinking several moves ahead, more drawn to the long strategic game than to any quick win. Mercury or Saturn here can indicate real skill at patient, honest contest, holding a plan long enough to see whether it actually works. It rewards a worthy opponent, since the game means little played against someone who won't really try.
What long game are you currently playing, and are you actually respecting your opponent enough to play it honestly?
Find your own Sabian symbols
Your Sun, Moon, Ascendant, and every planet each sit at their own exact degree. Cast a free natal chart to find yours, or let a full reading trace what they mean together.
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