Astrological compatibility is based on the idea that like attracts like. Having planets in the same signs or in signs of the same element represents, in general, an easy flow that is supposedly the foundation for an ideal relationship. The reality, though, is that our individual needs differ and the components that make a successful partnership differ as well.
Barack and Michelle Obama don't satisfy many of the traditional astrological ideas for a successful couple. He's a Leo and she's a Capricorn, a fire-earth mix that's not a classically cozy combination. Yet both are signs of leadership, although of somewhat different styles. Leos are often charismatic charmers whose force of personality grabs the spotlight. Capricorns tend to be hard workers who attain their authority through dint of their efforts. A deeper look, however, shows that Barack doesn't necessarily want someone like him. He was born on August 4, 1961 at 7:24 pm in Honolulu, Hawaii with unconventional Uranus in his 7th House of Partnership. This suggests that one of the primary purposes of relationship for him is to encounter differences and discover new things rather than fit into a fixed model of how marriage works.
Michelle Obama was born on January 17, 1964 in Chicago, but her birth time has not been published. We don't know, then, what she has in the 7th house or any other house of her chart. However, we can be certain about the signs of all the planets except her Moon. This is a critical factor since the Moon represents emotions, feelings, family and habits. It shifted from intellectual Aquarius to compassionate Pisces the day Michelle was born. While both of these seem to be strong aspects of her personality, she has loving Venus in Pisces and assertive Mars in Aquarius, so these bases are covered. More importantly, she has Mars joined with her Sun, indicating a high degree of drive and the need for a man who is equally driven. Barack may be a charming Leo, but his Mars is in practical Virgo, harmoniously aligned with serious Saturn. He's a Leo who does more than strut his stuff: he works hard and he produces tangible results.
Barack's Venus is in early Cancer, a sister water sign of Pisces, and fortuitously angled to Michelle's. These two strong-willed and driven individuals share a sensitivity in relationships and common tastes through their favorable Venus connection. This core of sweet affection comes in handy for any couple, yet plays an especially important role for the Obamas. That's because Mercury, the communication planet, operates differently for each of them. Michelle's is in practical Capricorn and Barack's is in intuitive Leo. They may share common values, but the way they organize information is quite different. Michelle may be more pragmatic and focused on current conditions, while Barack should be more creative, imagining beyond the boundaries of the present.
In many ways the Obamas' relationship reflects the issues the country faces, in that there are different ideas about the best way to maintain a healthy society. It's clear that Michelle and Barack share enough common ground to succeed as a couple, yet perhaps it is their differences that make them unique. The ability to have a respectful dialogue in spite of them is a model from which we all can learn.
About the Author
Jeff Jawer is the co-author of Barnes & Noble's 'Your Astrology Guide 2009.' A professional astrologer since 1973, his articles have appeared in astrology journals, magazines and Web sites around the world. He holds a B.A. in The History and Science of Astrology from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst and teaches and lectures both in the United States and abroad.
