Cancer

Cancer :: The Zodiac Sign of the Crab Sent by Hera

Cancer, the Crab, is the fourth sign of the Zodiac and represents those born between June 20 and July 22. In Greek myth the Crab is the creature that came to the aid of the Lernaean Hydra against Heracles and was placed among the stars by Hera.

Cancer in Greek Mythology

Cancer, the giant crab, appears in the story of Heracles’ second labour, the killing of the Lernaean Hydra. Apollodorus tells that when Heracles had seized the Hydra, it wound itself about one of his feet and clung to him, and that a huge crab also came to help the Hydra by biting his foot (Apollodorus, Library 2.5.2). Heracles killed the crab and then called his nephew Iolaus to help him, and together they destroyed the Hydra by burning the stumps of its necks (Apollodorus, Library 2.5.2). Hyginus too says that Hercules, provoked by the bite, killed the crab (Hyginus, Astronomica 2.23).

Hera, the enemy of Heracles, rewarded the crab for its service by placing it among the stars. Hyginus says the Crab was set among the stars through the favour of Juno (Hera) because, when Hercules stood against the Lernaean Hydra, it came out of the marsh and seized his foot in its claws (Hyginus, Astronomica 2.23).

Cancer Role and Symbolism

In the myth the crab has a minor part: it fights briefly for the Hydra against Heracles and is defeated. Its reward is the one lasting detail, a place among the twelve signs.

The constellation of Cancer

As a reward for its service, Hera placed the image of the crab among the stars. It is one of the constellations of the zodiac, and its brightest star is Altarf. The faint cloud in the middle of the constellation was known to the Greeks as the Manger (Phatne); the Greek poet Aratus describes it as a faint mist beneath Cancer and uses its clearness as a sign of weather (Aratus, Phaenomena 892–898, 996). Hyginus adds that two stars on the crab’s shell are called the Asses, and ties them to a story about Dionysus (Hyginus, Astronomica 2.23).

Cancer in Astrology

Cancerians are known for their sensitivity and compassion, as well as their tenacity. In astrology, Cancer is represented by the crab. This creature is known for its hard shell, which protects its soft insides. In much the same way, Cancerians often put up a tough exterior to shield themselves from the world. But beneath that hard exterior is a kind and caring individual who just wants to be loved.

Cancerians tend to be loyal and supportive, both in their personal relationships and in their professional lives. They are the type of people who will always be there for you, no matter what. Cancerians are also typically very family-oriented, and will do whatever it takes to protect and care for their loved ones.

Cancer Sign and Ruling Planet

Cancer is a cardinal sign and is ruled by the Moon. Cancerians are known for their emotional nature, their caring attitude, and their love of home and family. They are natural leaders and are often the ones to take charge when it comes to starting new projects or initiatives. They are also very ambitious and driven, and will work hard to achieve their goals.

Cancer Personality and Character traits

If you have Cancer in your birth chart, you are likely a very compassionate and caring person. You have a strong connection to your emotions, and you are probably very intuitive. You may find yourself drawn to careers that involve helping others, such as teaching, social work, or medicine. You are loyal and supportive, and you place a high value on family and close relationships. You may find yourself drawn to home and hearth, and you may feel a strong need for security and stability in your life.