Related in interpretation but different in intent, horary and electional astrology are two forms of astrological chart analysis that are similar by analogy to relationship between deductive and inductive reasoning.

In horary astrology, a question is asked at a specific time and a chart is cast for that moment. Then chart is interpreted according to rules of horary interpretation to yield an answer.

In electional astrology, someone wants to choose an auspicious or lucky time for an event in future that can be planned, such as a marriage, signing real estate papers, or, in case of Ronald Reagan, a presidential swearing-in ceremony. The astrologer begins by speculating with client on a desirable time in future and then casts a chart for that time and date. This chart is interpreted according to guidelines for electional astrology in order to determine if this is best possible date to insure success.

In reviewing a tentative electional chart, astrologer must decide whether or not date and time are satisfactory. In truth, since it is not possible to get a “perfect” electional chart, s/he usually winds up casting half a dozen charts and trying to choose one that makes most sense.

Ivy M. Goldstein-Jacobson is High Priestess of Horary and Electional Astrologer. She has done most recently to develop and refine art of this kind of interpretation. Mrs. Jacobson lived from 1893 to 1990. Another expert in field is William Lilly. He wrote in 17th Century!

Mrs. Jacobson’s wonderful books are now back in print and available on several Internet sites. Many are available secondhand through amazon.com Mrs. Jacobson’s book on horary is called “Simplified Horary Astrology”.

Another essential tool for interpreting charts this way is Rex E. Bills’ “The Rulership Book”, also widely available on Internet. The Rulership Book tells you what sign rules just about anything you can think of from Israel to kitchen sink. This information is critical to horary and electional chart interpretation.

Let’s look at some of basic steps for reading an electional chart for an operation. Suppose a client has come to asking when is best time for surgery to remove her uterus.

1. The first thing is to identify rulership of area of body being operated on. We establish this through Bills’ “Rulerships” book or general knowledge -- uterus is a reproductive organ and is therefore ruled by Scorpio and planet Mars.

The rest of interpretation follows these general guidelines.

2. The 8th house signifies surgery (Jacobson: “The 7th rules doctor or physician: surgeon who usually cuts away a part that then dies is ruled by death-8th.”)..

3. The 1st house signifies patient.

4. Mercury represents instruments surgeon will use.

5. The recovery process is signified by 6th house.

Examine rulers of these houses and planets that inhabit them to see what kind of aspects and information are revealed, positive or negative.