In astrology, the concept of a "combust" planet” refers to a planet that is in close proximity to the Sun in the birth chart. A planet is considered combustible when it is within a certain distance from the Sun, typically within 8 to 10 degrees on either side. The term “combust” comes from the idea that the Sun, being the central and most powerful body in the solar system, can overpower or "burn" the energy of the planet that is in close alignment with it. This results in a subtle but profound effect on how that planet's energies are expressed in an individual’s life.

The Sun, in its symbolic role as the soul, ego, and vital life force, represents the core of an individual’s identity and consciousness. When other planets align too closely with the Sun, they can either be diminished in their strength or distorted in the way they manifest. A combust planet might not be able to express its natural qualities fully or might do so in a more subtle or hidden manner.

The Mechanics of Combustion

To understand how a planet becomes combust, it's important to know how the Sun’s energy affects other celestial bodies. The Sun’s rays are intense, and when a planet comes within a certain degree range (usually 8-10 degrees) of the Sun in the sky, it is thought to lose its individual expression. The heat and brightness of the Sun can "obscure" or overwhelm the planet’s natural qualities, making it less able to express itself in the way it would if it were in a more independent position in the birth chart.

The effect of combustion can vary depending on the planet involved and the closeness of the conjunction to the Sun. In some cases, a combustible planet may be weakened, but in other instances, it may be "purified" or brought to a higher expression through its close connection to the Sun. The overall influence of a combust planet depends on how it interacts with other aspects of the birth chart, including the house it occupies, the signs involved, and the aspects it forms with other planets.

What Does Combustion Do to Each Planet?

Each planet, when combust, may manifest its energies in a particular way, and these expressions can be more challenging or subtle. Here's a breakdown of how combustion can affect each planet:

1. Mercury (the planet of communication, intellect, and reasoning):

• A combust Mercury might result in difficulties with clear thinking, expression, or communication. The native may struggle to articulate thoughts or experience a lack of mental clarity.

• However, there can also be a profound depth to the individual’s thought process, as the Sun’s influence may push the person to become more focused, creative, or even more secretive about their intellectual pursuits.

2. Venus (the planet of love, beauty, and relationships):

• When Venus is combust, there may be challenges in relationships or issues around self-worth and self-expression. The individual could have a tendency to overcompensate in matters of love or struggle with feeling unworthy.

• On the positive side, Venus combust can indicate a passionate, intense desire for love and beauty, possibly manifesting in deep, transformative relationships.

3. Mars (the planet of action, desire, and aggression):

• Combust Mars can bring an explosive or uncontrollable expression of energy. The native may be quick-tempered, overly impulsive, or prone to conflicts.

• On the other hand, the Sun’s influence could channel Mars energy in a more focused, powerful way, pushing the individual to pursue their goals with intense ambition.

4. Jupiter (the planet of expansion, growth, and wisdom):

• A combust Jupiter may result in difficulties with judgement, an inflated sense of self, or excessive optimism that leads to risky ventures. There could be challenges in finding the balance between overindulgence and wisdom.

• Alternatively, this position could imbue the person with a deep spiritual or philosophical nature, as the Sun's influence may compel them to seek higher knowledge and self-growth.

5. Saturn (the planet of structure, discipline, and limitation):

• Saturn’s combustion can manifest as difficulty in establishing boundaries, feeling unsupported or burdened by responsibilities, or a struggle to develop a strong sense of discipline.

• It can also bring a drive to overcome limitations and structure one’s life with greater purpose. Individuals may develop resilience or experience self-imposed challenges in their quest for personal growth.

6. Uranus (the planet of innovation, rebellion, and change):

• A combust Uranus could indicate an individual who feels a deep urge to break free from societal norms, but this may result in erratic or unpredictable behaviour. The native might feel isolated or misunderstood due to their desire for uniqueness.

• On the other hand, the Sun’s influence could provide the energy for them to be a powerful force of change or innovation, albeit in a way that’s not always understood by others.

7. Neptune (the planet of dreams, illusions, and spirituality):

• Combust Neptune can bring confusion, disillusionment, or a tendency to escape reality. There may be challenges with boundaries, and the person might struggle to distinguish between fantasy and reality.

• Alternatively, this combination could encourage a deep, mystical connection to the divine or an ability to transcend ordinary reality in creative ways.

8. Pluto (the planet of transformation, power, and regeneration):

• A combust Pluto may create intense internal conflicts, power struggles, or a sense of being overshadowed by intense emotions or external forces. The individual may feel an urge to control or manipulate situations to gain personal power.

• Alternatively, it may bring a transformative power, as the Sun helps Pluto express itself in a way that brings profound change and growth.

The Role of Combust Planets in Your Birth Chart

Combust planets play a unique role in the birth chart. The key thing to remember is that these planets are still active but are likely to be expressed in more subtle, hidden, or complicated ways. Depending on the overall chart configuration, the combust planet can indicate areas of life where the individual may face internal challenges or areas where their energy is focused intensely.

Combust planets may also point to areas where the native has a hidden or unrecognised potential. The Sun, while overpowering, could be pushing that planet to evolve in a way that is not immediately obvious. Over time, with conscious awareness, the individual might learn to harness and express the energy of the combust planet in more constructive ways.

For instance, a combust Venus may suggest difficulty with love or relationships, but with maturity, it could point to a profound capacity for deep emotional connections or the ability to transform one’s relationships in an impactful way. Similarly, combust Mars might show a person who struggles with impulsiveness but can channel that energy into effective leadership or personal ambition.

Wrapping It Up

In a nutshell, combust planets highlight areas where individuals may experience inner tension or feel that part of their personality or life is being overshadowed by external forces. However, these planets also present opportunities for growth and self-realisation, as their energy can be refined and directed in a more powerful and harmonious way when understood properly. Like any other astrological influence, combust planets are a tool for self-awareness and personal development.