What Is the Third House in Astrology? Interpreting Your Third House

What is the Third House in astrology?

The Third House rules communication and knowledge. This house governs how you think and express yourself. This could be through speaking, writing, or using technology. Although communication is a broad topic, the Third House rules how you communicate with people who are close to you—siblings, peers, friends, and maybe neighbors. If you have your Third House set in a strong sign like Gemini, you're probably very persuasive and you have a way with words.

It also governs transportation and early education. The Third House rules what you know about your surroundings—this includes information you gain through travel. Since you learn so much as a child and you practice expressing yourself, this house also rules early education.

What sign and planet naturally rule the Third House?

Gemini and Mercury naturally rule the Third House. Gemini brings intelligence to the Third House. It also influences your ability to absorb knowledge. Mercury is known as the messenger planet, so it governs expression and information processing. It's no surprise that Mercury and Gemini are the rulers of this House of Communication. You might not have your Third House set in Gemini and this is totally fine! If you have a different sign, keep reading to figure out what it means for your Third House.

How do I find out what sign my Third House is in?

Read your birth chart to see which specific sign is in this house. If you don't have your birth chart handy, do a web search for a "free online birth chart calculator." Type in your birthday, time of birth, and location, so the calculator can automatically generate your chart. Some birth charts use Roman numerals, so you may need to look for III to read your Third House sign. You have 12 Houses and your birth chart will give you specifics on all of them.

Interpreting Zodiac Signs in the Third House

Aries in the Third House: You tend to be stubborn and are quick to jump to conclusions, probably because of the fiery energy of this sign. This can make communication a little challenging for you, especially since you should think about the effect your words have on others. Try to be a little more patient and you'll find it's easier to interact with people.

Taurus in the Third House: As the sign of the bull, it's no surprise that if you have Taurus in your Third House, you're determined to the point of being stubborn. You take your time gathering information, but this just means that you're able to defend your viewpoints. Cultivate the relationship with your siblings and neighbors since these connections are really important to you.

Gemini in the Third House: You're an original thinker who can easily express yourself. Since Gemini naturally rules this house, you find yourself curious about everything with a deep desire to learn. You're social and outgoing, so you have no problem communicating. Just watch out for information overload which can make you a little stressed out.

Cancer in the Third House: You've got an active mind and a thirst for knowledge. Unfortunately, this means it's simple for you to get bored. However, you get along really well with others and you're a thoughtful communicator. To cope with your busy mind, slow down and relax or meditate.

Leo in the Third House: You're known for being opinionated and bold. You don't struggle to express yourself and you have pretty fixed viewpoints on issues. While you feel comfortable with Leo in the Third House, ensure that you don't force your beliefs on those who are close to you.

Virgo in the Third House: You're a precise, but persuasive communicator. With Virgo in your Third House, you like to gather all the information you possibly can in order to make rational decisions. You probably feel like you know the answer to everything, but give others a chance to explain their opinions before jumping to conclusions.

Libra in the Third House: You're an elegant communicator who loves talking with others. As the scales of the zodiac, it's no surprise that you bring harmony to your interactions. Just be careful that you're totally respectful of others and that you don't expect too much from people.

Scorpio in the Third House: You're seen as mysterious and a bit of a loner. Although you're witty and easy to talk to, you tend to close off your emotions. This is because Scorpio tends to be a vulnerable sign. Try to become more comfortable with sharing your feelings and avoid making snap judgments of other people.

Sagittarius in the Third House: You're driven by a philosophical outlook and it's easy for you to express your ideas. You can be a little too focused on yourself at times, so really work on developing relationships with your family and close friends.

Capricorn in the Third House: You can come across as a little standoffish because you like to think before you speak. Like most Capricorns, you're disciplined and pragmatic, so you have an analytical communication style. You probably need to work at respecting other people's viewpoints.

Aquarius in the Third House: You're well known for your energetic, bold ideas. Aquarius is the quintessential air sign. These are known as the master communicators of the zodiac, so you're able to share big, progressive ideas about all sorts of subjects, particularly humanitarian topics. Practice patience when communicating, so you don't dismiss other people's unique perspectives.

Pisces in the Third House: You're in touch with your feelings, but you aren't great at communicating them. Since Pisces is a dream-like water sign, when it's in your Third House, you may struggle to interpret the world around you. Create a daily routine to help you make sense of your surroundings and enjoy the close relationship you have with siblings or friends.