The Western zodiac evolved from Babylonian astrology and was influenced by Hellenistic culture. Each sign was named after a constellation that the sun passed through on its annual journey across the sky. These signs form the twelve 30-degree sectors of Earth's orbit in Western astrology: Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, and Pisces.
Though astrology is considered a pseudoscience by modern standards, it remains popular for offering insights into personality, self-awareness, and identity. Among the twelve signs, Cancer is one of the most emotionally intuitive and compassionate.
Origins of Cancer Zodiac Sign
Cancer season falls between June 21 and July 22, marking the summer solstice in the Northern Hemisphere. The name “Cancer” comes from the Indo-European root meaning “to scratch.”
- In Ancient Egypt, Cancer was symbolized by a scarab beetle.
- In Mesopotamia, it was represented by a turtle.
- Today, Cancer is most often symbolized by the crab.
In Greek mythology, the crab Karkinos was sent by Hera to distract Hercules during his battle with the Hydra. Though Hercules killed Karkinos, Hera honored the crab by placing it among the stars as the Cancer constellation.
Symbolism and Associations
Cancer is a water sign and a cardinal sign, associated with beginnings and leadership. Its ruling planet is the Moon, symbolizing emotions, self-care, and maternal energy.
- Element: Water
- Modality: Cardinal
- Ruling Planet: Moon
- Symbol: Crab
- Dates: June 21 – July 22
Personality Traits of Cancer
Cancers are deeply emotional, intuitive, and nurturing. They are natural caregivers who prioritize creating safe, loving spaces for those they care about. However, their emotional depth can sometimes lead to sensitivity and moodiness.
- Strengths: Empathetic, compassionate, loyal, protective, artistic, ambitious.
- Weaknesses: Overly sensitive, moody, resentful, reluctant to forgive, hesitant to show vulnerability.
- Likes: Security, family, routine, romance, emotional connection.
- Dislikes: Uncertainty, betrayal, feeling exploited, rapid changes.
Cancer in Relationships
Cancers are known for their devotion and emotional depth in friendships and romantic relationships. They are protective, caring, and often romantic dreamers. However, their shyness and fear of vulnerability can make it hard for them to accept genuine love. When hurt, they may retreat into their “shell” and hold onto grudges for a long time.
Famous Cancer Celebrities
Many notable figures are born under the Cancer sign, including:
Ariana Grande, Meryl Streep, Frida Kahlo, Vin Diesel, Sandra Oh, Pamela Anderson, Elon Musk, Lindsay Lohan, Tom Cruise, Will Ferrell, Selena Gomez, Lana Del Rey, Cyndi Lauper, and Benedict Cumberbatch.
Cancer Quick Reference Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Dates | June 21 – July 22 |
| Symbol | Crab |
| Element | Water |
| Modality | Cardinal |
| Ruling Planet | Moon |
| Strengths | Empathetic, nurturing, loyal, protective, artistic |
| Weaknesses | Overly sensitive, moody, resentful, cautious |
| Famous Cancers | Ariana Grande, Frida Kahlo, Meryl Streep, Elon Musk, Tom Cruise, Selena Gomez, Benedict Cumberbatch |
Cancer is a sign of deep emotions, nurturing instincts, and strong connections to family and home. Guided by the Moon, Cancers embody both the comfort of stability and the tides of ever-changing emotions.
