by The onomantic system and Albert Einstein’s chart
The method proposed by Del Bello for interpreting the natal onomantic chart is primarily based on the meanings attributed to zodiac signs, planets, aspects between planets, and houses in traditional astrology. This approach also incorporates the Major and Minor Arcana. We have intentionally omitted the inclusion of other factors, such as fixed stars, Arabic parts, and Terms, to avoid overwhelming the chart with excessive symbolic meanings that could obscure its most essential aspects. However, there is no obstacle to adding these elements later if desired.
In the introduction, we discussed eleven predictive techniques based on birth horoscopes. However, mastering the interpretation of the birth chart is essential before implementing these methods, which can be discouraging at this stage. These procedures are lengthy and complex, requiring careful attention. Additionally, the sheer number of techniques necessitates experimenting with each one to identify which approach works best for us.
It’s important to elaborate on the symbolic essence of this method. The horoscope framework, specifically the system of houses, is fundamentally based on the Sun. The cusp of the first house aligns with the zero degree of the natal zodiac sign, and the subsequent houses are evenly distributed across 30-degree segments of the following zodiac signs. The initial data—such as name, day, month, year, and time of birth—are used solely to generate symbolic permutations of planets and Arcana, and to position them within the houses. The place of birth is irrelevant, as the domification process does not rely on astronomical or local coordinates.
Del Bello’s advice on interpreting the onomantic horoscope closely resembles classical procedures. At one point, he even considers including the Ascendant in the interpretation as a secondary factor. His approach involves a concise and analytical examination of the chart, along with a dialogue with the querent, when possible, to clarify their sociocultural context. This helps to adapt the predictions more effectively and align them with the querent’s psychophysical profile and real-world circumstances.
This approach might not surprise professional astrologers, who often take a holistic view to help clients uncover their innate potential. By doing so, clients can actively engage in resolving their problems; however, the similarities between this approach and traditional astrology end there. Traditional astrology is rooted in the idea that the position of the sky at the moment of a person’s birth plays a crucial role. The time of birth coincides with the cosmic conditions of that instant, creating our unique astral “signature.” The horoscope serves as a mirror that reflects our inner nature, offering insight into aspects of ourselves that might otherwise remain hidden by the density of the matter in which we are enveloped.
Onomantic astrology operates from a different premise. In this approach, the hereditary foundation provided by the name’s significance is complemented by an astrological image derived from birth data. However, this image does not come from the objective celestial representation that such data typically suggests.
In traditional astrology, the inner and outer universes align due to the temporal synchronicity between two separate events: birth and its celestial counterpart. Conversely, onomantic astrology reveals an unfolding within the internal cosmos, guided by rhythms woven into the symbols associated with our time models—hours, days, months, and years. Each of these models, due to numerological reasons, presents a precise analogy with the planetary and zodiacal spheres.
We can confidently state that the astrological symbolism used in the context of onomancy is incidental, meaning it depends on the culture in question. Traditionally, the Western cultural context has emphasised the sky and its rhythms as archetypes representing the physical, mental, and spiritual makeup of human beings. Other cultures have developed calendar prognostic systems that are fundamentally compatible with onomancy but utilise entirely different symbolic frameworks. Examples include Tibetan astrology, which is based on the interaction between the five elements and the cycle of the 12 animals, and the Astrology of the I Ching, featuring its eight trigrams and 64 hexagrams.
What conclusions can we draw from comparing two astrological methodologies that are so different in their origins? The most obvious conclusion is that we should avoid the temptation of creating an improbable synthesis, assuming that “two is better than one.” Onomantic astrology focuses on the individual archetype, shaped by the experiences that the self has developed in past lives or other states of existence. In contrast, traditional astrology shapes this archetype based on new experiences in the current life. It emphasises the dynamics with which the individual must engage to integrate into the world and continue their evolutionary journey. Ideally, we could utilise both systems for different purposes: onomantic astrology provides an in-depth assessment of an individual’s innate and hereditary traits, while traditional astrology examines the extent of growth and transformation the individual undergoes in their current life.
Onomantic interpretation
In interpreting the onomantic chart, Del Bello recommends using an analysis-synthesis framework. When starting in astrology, it is undoubtedly beneficial to focus on the individual elements of the horoscope before honing skills in synthesis. With experience, one can quickly grasp the essence of the individual at first glance, and then proceed to a detailed examination of the individual elements, effectively reversing the initial learning process.
X I VII IV XI XII VIII IX II III V VI
10th House
The Tenth House represents the “Vertex of the Horoscope,” which is the highest point in the birth chart. This House signifies the peak of personal fulfilment within a social context. It also reflects the highest level of integration into the world that an individual can attain after fully expressing their innate potential, which the Fourth House represents.
| 1st Circle | 2nd Circle | 3rd Circle | 4th Circle |
|---|---|---|---|
| Houses | Zodiac | Substantial Arcana | Judges |
| X | Sagittarius | Greater: XIII Lesser: XXXI |
| 1st Circle | 7th Circle | 10th Circle | 11th Circle |
|---|---|---|---|
| Houses | Planetary Masters | Arcana | Planets |
| X | L | Saturn |
In our chart, the Tenth House is in the sign of Sagittarius, suggesting achievements that extend “beyond” traditional boundaries. This placement emphasises the importance of expanding one’s knowledge through the exploration of new and uncharted territories. In our example, Einstein, with his theory of general relativity and other contributions, laid the groundwork for a true revolution in classical physics.
The Greater and Lesser Judges represent the “guarantor” and its “helper” in overseeing the use of the House’s resources. They serve as a sort of “imprimatur” for proper conduct. In this context, they are associated with the Arcana of Death and the Five of Wands.
The card of Death, beyond its traditional meanings of destruction and physical demise, signifies transformation on both evolutionary and intellectual levels. It suggests that attaining higher levels of thought necessitates a profound shift in perspective. On the other hand, the Five of Wands, while hinting at excessive ambition, pride, and a propensity for intrigue, also encourages intellectual mastery and complete ownership of one’s resources.
Together, these cards suggest a strong urge to fulfil the necessary transformation and evolution of both mind and spirit.
The Ten of Cups, here the Arcanum of the Tenth Circle, is traditionally associated with love, friendship, and travels towards the Southwest. Interestingly, the city of Ulm, where Einstein was born, is Southwest of Princeton, where he lived and worked for many years until his death. The planet associated with this Arcanum is Saturn, which is part of the Eleventh Circle. This connection appears to suggest a focus on platonic, rational love, directed to intellectual aspirations and personal growth through study.
1st House
According to Del Bello, the First House in astrology represents individuality. He describes it as “the most intimate, deepest part of the human being 1,” emphasising that it is based on conscious qualities and rich in latent virtues that can be translated into action. Del Bello differentiates this from temperament, which encompasses the individual qualities generally referred to as “humours.” These humours are represented by the Ascendant, which, in Einstein’s case, is in the sign of Cancer.
What Del Bello defines as individuality, we call nature. Nature is the power of manifestation of the being that becomes the central nucleus of the unborn child, the light of their existence, the beacon illuminating the path to follow to realise innate directives, just like the seasons that respond to the degree of solar radiation. As a Pisces, Einstein’s nature is characterised by a universalistic nature, capable of expressing a vast array of conscious potential, sometimes chaotically, but also of exploring paths unknown to most. In the onomantic horoscope, the first house occupies the birth sign; therefore, it seems appropriate to assign to it the characteristic traits that in traditional astrology are part of solar symbolism.
| 1st Circle | 2nd Circle | 3rd Circle | 4th Circle |
|---|---|---|---|
| Houses | Zodiac | Substantial Arcana | Judges |
| I | Pisces | Entry Point: XLIX Free Will: XXII | Greater: XIII Lesser: XXXI |
| 1st Circle | 7th Circle | 10th Circle | 11th Circle |
|---|---|---|---|
| Houses | Planetary Masters | Arcana | Planets |
| I | Hour: Jupiter Decan: Venus Month: Mars | XLI XLIII LXXVII XLIX | Mars The Reaper Sun Venus |
The Circle of the Substantial Arcana has two entrances: the Starting Arcanum and the Arcanum of Free Will. In the absence of any specific guidance from Del Bello about their meanings, we will proceed intuitively. The Arcanum of Departure appears to symbolise the card that, essentially, initiates the game, as it is always assigned to the first house. It serves as the keynote that influences the natal sign, bringing its meanings to life.
The traditional description of the Nine of Cups refers to a love of principles, a conventional family, material joy, and regard. In Einstein’s case, this concept seems to expand into a notion of universal harmony, which resonates with Pisces and the planet Venus. Interestingly, we find the same Arcanum in the tenth circle, also associated with the planet of love.
The Arcanum of Free Will, The World, symbolises individuality (First House) that is capable of taking control of one’s choices for a complete expression of one’s potential, serving as the fertile ground that ensures the development of “regality” on Earth.
The Moon, representing the Greater Judge, emphasises the importance of safeguarding oneself against adversaries in the material world who may obstruct the quest for personal fulfilment. The Two of Wands, portrayed as the Lesser Judge, suggests the need to form alliances to overcome these challenges.
The Seventh Circle, which includes Planetary Masters, is an addition to the horoscope’s Circles. Del Bello claims authorship of this concept but does not explain its meaning or purpose. In our example chart, there are three time spans that exhibit a Jupiterian and, therefore, expansive influence: 4-5, 11-12, and 18-19. Additionally, Mars, as the Zodiac Master of the Month, aligns with Mars in the sign of Pisces in Einstein’s case, corresponding to the period from February 19 to March 20. This alignment suggests wishful thinking and energy that dissipates, spreading into many directions. The Master of the Decan, Venus, underscores the Venusian influence when a planet is located in the corresponding Decan.
The Arcanum XLI of the Tenth Circle, representing the Ace of Cups, is associated with Martian symbolism. It denotes uplifting passion, talent, enthusiasm, and personal spontaneity, but can also imply haste. The Arcanum XLIII, the Three of Cups, paired with the Arcanum of the Reaper (Death), suggests transcending the physical plane. It symbolises pregnancy or gestation, representing the abandonment of a previous form that leads to new creation.
The combination of the Nine of Pentacles and the Sun indicates personal fortune. It’s important to note that the symbolic Sun is in the same zodiac sign as the physical Sun, ensuring a perfect synchronicity between one’s nature and its fulfilment on a personal level. Lastly, we see the recurrence of the Arcanum XLIX, which parallels the Starting Arcanum.
7th House
The Seventh House symbolises the dynamics of relationships across emotional, social, and professional spheres; it reflects the capacity to balance one’s own needs with those of others, fostering harmonious interactions.
| 1st Circle | 2nd Circle | 3rd Circle | 4th Circle |
|---|---|---|---|
| Houses | Zodiac | Substantial Arcana | Judges |
| VII | Virgo | Birth Doorway: IV |
| 1st Circle | 7th Circle | 10th Circle | 11th Circle |
|---|---|---|---|
| Houses | Planetary Masters | Arcana | Planets |
| VII | Year: Venus | LXIV | Moon Mercury |
The Seventh House in Virgo suggests that relationships are often built on shared interests and routines. This approach aims to create an orderly relational environment that prioritises logic and organisation over emotional connections.
The Arcanum of the Birth Doorway of the Third Circle represents The Emperor. According to Del Bello, the Birth Doorway is the most significant point in life. The Emperor symbolises authority attained through moral and intellectual growth, granting the rightful position of prestige achieved without the use of force. When placed in the seventh house, it indicates a natural tendency to dominate relationships through inherent abilities.
In the Seventh Circle, Venus, as the Planetary Master of the Year, foretells that emotional encounters, or those significant for social evolution, occur in the years dominated by this planet (see the Table of Annual Cycles).
The Ten of Swords, associated with the Tenth Circle and the Moon in the Eleventh Circle, represents a range of adverse influences related to unstable relationships and emotions that jeopardise stability. This card symbolises challenges and failed endeavours resulting from the subject’s mistakes. Mercury is located in the Eleventh Circle because its calculations do not generate positive outcomes; thus, according to Del Bello, we should consider it in its nocturnal domicile. In this position, the planet enhances the mind’s ability to create logical connections and fosters harmony among like-minded individuals.
4th House
The Fourth House in Gemini suggests a family situation that is likely to be changeable, influenced by superficial attitudes and the inherent fickleness associated with Mercury. An empty Circle indicates that this House has a limited impact on personal evolution. In a horoscope, this sector represents the potential for growth before it is expressed outwardly. It symbolises the home as a place of refuge and protection, in addition to representing family and childhood experiences.
| 1st Circle | 2nd Circle | 3rd Circle | 4th Circle |
|---|---|---|---|
| Houses | Zodiac | Substantial Arcana | Judges |
| IV | Gemini |
| 1st Circle | 7th Circle | 10th Circle | 11th Circle |
|---|---|---|---|
| Houses | Planetary Masters | Arcana | Planets |
| IV |
11th House
The Eleventh House symbolises an individual’s connection to friendships, aspirations, and the broader community of thought.
| 1st Circle | 2nd Circle | 3rd Circle | 4th Circle |
|---|---|---|---|
| Houses | Zodiac | Substantial Arcana | Judges |
| XI | Capricorn | Prividence: XI Destiny: XI | Greater: VIII Lesser: VI |
| 1st Circle | 7th Circle | 10th Circle | 11th Circle |
|---|---|---|---|
| Houses | Planetary Masters | Arcana | Planets |
| XI | Day: Venus | XLVI | Sun |
The sign of Capricorn indicates a will that aspires to reach the pinnacle of thought through rationality and a commitment that effectively excludes distractions. Friendships will be characterised by longevity and selective choices.
The Arcanum of Providence is a well-deserved gift that descends from above because favourable conditions have been established to receive it, whether in this life or another. This gift is The Strength—the ability to endure struggles and conflicts to achieve one’s goals. This card is also associated with the Arcanum of Destiny. Here, it is unclear whether Del Bello refers to Fate, which involves predetermined and fixed events in time and space, or to Destiny, understood as the ability to shape the future through one’s decisions, aligning more closely with the concept of Free Will. In any case, The Strength ensures the achievement of one’s aspirations with minimal effort, as long as one correctly interprets their destiny.
The rules we must follow, as outlined by the indications of the fourth Circle, are those governed by Justice and the Lovers. Justice involves making the right choices to maintain balance in our lives and in the world around us. Therefore, we must choose the appropriate path, deciding between vice and virtue (The Lovers). By doing so, our desires (11th House) will be fulfilled.
Venus is the Planetary Master of the Day, making the time slots 0-1, 7-8, 14-15 and 21-22 favourable for developing projects or choosing friendships (See the Table of Planetary Hours).
The Arcanum of the Tenth Circle, represented by the Six of Cups and associated with solar symbolism, reflects the hesitation experienced when choosing between personal affections and individual aspirations. This internal conflict can lead to sentimental challenges, doubts about marriage, or feelings of abandonment by a loved one.
12th House
The Twelfth House represents unconscious factors that can either serve as a reservoir of opportunities when integrated into daily life or, conversely, become a source of existential uncertainty if one lacks the ability to organise the rich insights it provides. In the sign of Aquarius, this House favours inspiration—the capacity to view things holistically and understand phenomena through direct knowledge rather than through logical reasoning.
| 1st Circle | 2nd Circle | 3rd Circle | 4th Circle |
|---|---|---|---|
| Houses | Zodiac | Substantial Arcana | Judges |
| XII | Aquarius | Greater: VIII Lesser: XL |
| 1st Circle | 7th Circle | 10th Circle | 11th Circle |
|---|---|---|---|
| Houses | Planetary Masters | Arcana | Planets |
| XII | LXVII LXXVI LXIX XXVII | Jupiter Moon Crowned Shekel Sceptre |
The Greater Judge of the Fourth Circle remains Justice, accompanied by the Page of Cups. It suggests a specific challenge in managing the circumstances that allow for a balanced approach to intuitions, primarily due to emotional distress.
The significance of this House in the overall context of Einstein’s life is underscored by the numerous Arcana present in the Tenth Circle. The Knight of Pentacles, associated with Jupiter, indicates economic expansion driven by successful projects, although there is a tendency toward wastefulness. The Eight of Pentacles, linked to the Moon, emphasises the need for caution when relying on intuitive functions, as they could lead to negative consequences. The Ace of Pentacles, represented by the Crowned Shekel, serves as a regal symbol that reflects the essential role of inspiration and intuition in achieving universally recognised results. Lastly, the Ace of Wands, connected to the Sceptre, indicates the unity of action and power, illustrating the strength gained and reaffirmed by a significant event or discovery.
8th House
The Eighth House is associated with transformation and renewal within the human psychosomatic system. It includes experiences of regeneration, as well as negative aspects like psychological trauma, surgery, and death. Additionally, it encompasses external factors that indirectly affect material and economic matters (related to the Second House), such as bequests, inheritances, and donations.
| 1st Circle | 2nd Circle | 3rd Circle | 4th Circle |
|---|---|---|---|
| Houses | Zodiac | Substantial Arcana | Judges |
| VIII | Libra |
| 1st Circle | 7th Circle | 10th Circle | 11th Circle |
|---|---|---|---|
| Houses | Planetary Masters | Arcana | Planets |
| VIII | XLII | Jupiter |
The Eighth House in Libra typically signifies a quest for psychophysical balance. That involves addressing imbalances or making efforts to avoid excesses that stem from poor choices. Individuals with this configuration must discern what is right and wrong for themselves; otherwise, they may face objective problems.
The Two of Cups from the Tenth Circle, associated with the planet Jupiter, signifies the benefits of uniting with helpful and encouraging individuals for achieving prosperity and necessary life transformations.
9th House
The Ninth House reveals an individual’s exploratory attitudes and their capacity to expand beyond mental conventions and neighbourly relationships. It represents great journeys and the intellectual and philosophical approaches that broaden our understanding of the world.
| 1st Circle | 2nd Circle | 3rd Circle | 4th Circle |
|---|---|---|---|
| Houses | Zodiac | Substantial Arcana | Judges |
| IX | Scorpio |
| 1st Circle | 7th Circle | 10th Circle | 11th Circle |
|---|---|---|---|
| Houses | Planetary Masters | Arcana | Planets |
| IX |
The Ninth House in Scorpio reveals a deep desire to break free from the confines of everyday life by venturing into new experiences, sometimes risking personal safety in the process. It embodies the spirit of a bold experimenter who faces challenges head-on and is unafraid to explore uncharted territories.
2nd House
The Second House is associated with nourishment, which refers to the essential support for growth and development. This House represents the ability to acquire and manage material resources that are vital for one’s sustenance. Its significance also extends to finances and the management of economic resources.
| 1st Circle | 2nd Circle | 3rd Circle | 4th Circle |
|---|---|---|---|
| Houses | Zodiac | Substantial Arcana | Judges |
| II | Aries | Greater: XVIII Lesser: L |
| 1st Circle | 7th Circle | 10th Circle | 11th Circle |
|---|---|---|---|
| Houses | Planetary Masters | Arcana | Planets |
| II | L LVI | Saturn Moon |
In Aries, the Second House operates with the typical impulsiveness and intensity of the sign. Material acquisitions are driven more by instinct and immediate desire than by logic or reason. Individuals are compelled to obtain what they need without giving much thought to the methods they use or the potential consequences of their actions.
The Judges of the Fourth Circle, the Moon, and the Ten of Cups indicate that material gains may be accompanied by deception and disappointment. Therefore, it’s essential to exercise caution in managing your finances and not take risks too lightly. Fortunately, supportive friendships can provide valuable assistance.
The Ten of Cups remains the central figure of the tenth Circle, accompanied by the symbol of Saturn. In this context, the planet advises caution but offers the promise of positive outcomes for those who focus on the long term. The Two of Swords, combined with the Moon, illustrates the conflict surrounding material possessions when there is a lack of clarity of purpose. Overall, the situation presented by this House is contrasting but has the potential to improve over time.
3rd House
The Third House represents the ability to establish communication channels in our relationships with the world around us. It symbolises interpersonal and familial connections, interactions with neighbours, travel and short trips, small businesses, social media relationships, and the mind as a tool for verbal and intellectual exchange.
| 1st Circle | 2nd Circle | 3rd Circle | 4th Circle |
|---|---|---|---|
| Houses | Zodiac | Substantial Arcana | Judges |
| III | Taurus | Greater: XV Lesser: XI |
| 1st Circle | 7th Circle | 10th Circle | 11th Circle |
|---|---|---|---|
| Houses | Planetary Masters | Arcana | Planets |
| III | XLVI |
The Third House in Taurus suggests that interpersonal relationships are built on a solid foundation, favouring those connections that are meaningful and likely to endure.
The Judges of the Fourth Circle, The Devil, and The Strength clearly indicate that instincts, passions, and selfish impulses must be dominated by discipline, subjugating everything that is rebellious and violent.
The Six of Cups in the Tenth Circle, linked to the third House, indicates a lack of decisiveness in love, inadequate heart choices, and interpersonal relationships that may lead to abandonment.
5th House
The Fifth House represents creativity—the ability to infuse our worldly experiences with the unique qualities that set us apart as individuals. Creativity is a broad concept that encompasses various forms, including biological creativity, where children serve as the original expression of our genetic heritage. It also includes teaching, which involves passing down our values, and play, which allows for the free expression of our energy.
| 1st Circle | 2nd Circle | 3rd Circle | 4th Circle |
|---|---|---|---|
| Houses | Zodiac | Substantial Arcana | Judges |
| III | Cancer |
| 1st Circle | 7th Circle | 10th Circle | 11th Circle |
|---|---|---|---|
| Houses | Planetary Masters | Arcana | Planets |
| III | LXII | Jupiter |
The Fifth House in Cancer encourages artistic creativity, particularly in the arts of painting and music. Sensitivity is essential, as it fosters inventiveness and imagination, both in playful and logical ways.
The Eight of Swords of the Tenth Circle reinforces the previous description, as it represents intellectual perfection applied to creativity, guaranteeing social fame (Jupiter). Traditionally, it indicates triumph over obstacles and victory over enemies.
6th House
The Sixth House represents the essential rhythm and heartbeat that structures our being through the repetition of its fundamental note (the Fifth House) over time. It is closely associated with the daily expression of life and all its aspects, including work and the workplace, routines, and the biological and circadian rhythms that ensure our health.
| 1st Circle | 2nd Circle | 3rd Circle | 4th Circle |
|---|---|---|---|
| Houses | Zodiac | Substantial Arcana | Judges |
| VI | Leo |
| 1st Circle | 7th Circle | 10th Circle | 11th Circle |
|---|---|---|---|
| Houses | Planetary Masters | Arcana | Planets |
| VI |
In the sign of Leo, the Sixth House is strongly connected to our vital expression. The more we align our actions with the uniqueness of our creative spirit, the better we can sustain our daily productivity. A critical aspect of this combination is the absence of rules or structure, which can lead to disorder in managing our daily affairs and result in neglecting our health.
- Alfonso del Bello – Astrologia Esoterica Onomantica – Milan 1976, p. 182 ↩︎
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