Joie de Vivre: The Dynamic Energy of Aries III
If you’ve been following along on my 36 Decans series, you know we’ve already explored the first two decans of Aries, and now it’s time to dive into the third and final decan—Aries III. This is where things get really interesting because we see how the energy of Aries evolves and deepens as we move through the sign. In this video, I’ll unpack what makes Aries III unique, including its planetary rulers—Venus and Jupiter—and how their influence creates a dynamic mix of charisma, creativity, and ambition. We’ll also connect this energy to the Four of Wands tarot card, which beautifully captures the themes of celebration, harmony, and building something that lasts.
I’ve included a video transcript below, but it’s not just a word-for-word version—I’ve rewritten and expanded on the content to add extra insights and examples. So, whether you prefer to watch, read, or do both, the transcript offers something additional to explore.
Transcript (modified and expanded)
Today, I’ll be diving into the third decan of Aries, known as Aries III, and I’m particularly excited because we’ve already covered Aries I and Aries II. There’s a natural progression of energy within any zodiac sign, and by exploring the final decan, we gain a deeper understanding of Aries as a whole—how its energy evolves from the start of the sign to its conclusion. Each decan has its distinct flavor, and Aries III offers rich layers to unpack. I’ll break it all down in the upcoming video. If you enjoy the content, don’t forget to like and subscribe—it helps others discover my work.
The Planets That Rule Aries III
Now, let’s talk about Aries III. In this video, I’ll delve into the planets governing this decan and compare their influence on those ruling Aries I and II. Right from the start, we’ll explore the differences between these decans. I’ll also bring in the tarot card associated with Aries III—the Four of Wands. We’ll examine its significance and compare it to the cards tied to the other Aries decans to give you a fuller picture of this sign.
Aries I: The Beginning of the Zodiac
Aries III is fascinating, but let’s briefly revisit Aries I. Each decan of the zodiac has two planetary rulers, and for Aries I, the rulers are Mars and Mars under both the traditional (Chaldean order) and modern (Triplicity) systems. Mars, the god of war, represents initiation, action, and breaking into the world. Aries I reflects the bold, pioneering energy of the zodiac’s very beginning. It’s all about asserting oneself, making a mark, and insisting on your right to exist and “be” who you are. You can watch my Aries I video and read more about Aries I here: 36 Decans Blog, Aries I.
Aries II: The Sun’s Vibrant Energy
Moving on to Aries II, this decan is ruled by the Sun in both systems. The Sun brings a steady, vibrant presence. It represents shining your light in the world, stepping into leadership, and wholly occupying your space. Aries II carries the energy of individuals who have entered the world and are now standing in their power. There’s a deep connection here to spirit, integrity, and the ability to take charge of one’s destiny. You can watch my Aries II video and read more about Aries II here: 36 Decans Blog Aries II.
Aries III: The Influence of Venus and Jupiter
The third decan of Aries, Aries III, is ruled by Venus under the traditional system and by Jupiter under the modern system. Venus represents love, beauty, harmony, and justice, while Jupiter embodies optimism, expansion, and abundance.
When the energies of these two planets combine, individuals with Aries III as their rising sign often radiate natural charisma. Venus brings a deep desire for connection, harmony, and collaboration, making them skilled at forming groups, fostering relationships, and creating something meaningful. Jupiter amplifies this with its expansive energy, adding optimism and a sense of vision to their efforts. Together, these planetary forces are reflected in individuals who are magnetic, collaborative, and driven to “build” something that leaves a lasting, positive impact on the world.
The Role of Jupiter and Mars in Aries III
We’ll touch more on the concept of “building” when we discuss the tarot card associated with Aries III. For now, let’s explore the dynamic interplay between Jupiter and Mars. Mars, as the ruling planet of Aries, combines with Jupiter, the co-ruler of the third decan, to create an interesting synergy.
Jupiter, the planet of optimism, abundance, and expansion, enhances Mars’s action-oriented energy with bravery and boldness. This pairing fosters the ability to step into the world with confidence and a forward-thinking mindset. It creates a drive to pursue goals optimistically and with a sense of purpose.
Jupiter is also connected to ideology. This link partly arises because Sagittarius is associated with this last decan and is a sign associated with vision and expansive ideas. When we think of Sagittarius energy blending with Aries, we see people with planets in Aries III often possess visionary qualities. They’re driven by big ideas and a desire to bring their ideas to life.
For example, Che Guevara, who had Jupiter in Aries III, exemplified this decan's bold, idealistic energy. As a doctor and revolutionary, he was deeply committed to improving the lives of others and addressing social injustices across Latin America. His work reflected Jupiter's visionary optimism and Mars's courage and determination.
To summarize, Mars, the ruler of Aries, influences the third decan of Aries alongside Jupiter and Venus. Together, these energies create a dynamic blend of courage, vision, optimism, and the desire to connect and build.
Aries I-III and the Tarot
The energy of Venus, Jupiter, and Mars is reflected in the Four of Wands, the tarot card associated with Aries III. We see people celebrating a wedding—the married couple in the background and a chuppah, the canopy used as part of the wedding ceremony in the Jewish tradition. You can see they’re excited and happy and celebrating the marriage that was created.
4 of Wands, Rider-Waite Tarot
We immediately see how different the Four of Wands card is from the Two of Wands and the Three of Wands, which correspond to the first two decans of Aries.
Two and Three of Wands, Rider-Waite Tarot
The Two of Wands shows Alexander the Great holding the world in his hands, separated from it. There’s this idea of breaking into the world, perhaps wanting to conquer it. Another idea I presented in the first video on Aries I is that the Two of Wands represents insisting on one’s existence—this fiery energy of starting something new and breaking into the world—because it’s the very beginning of the zodiac.
In the Three of Wands, which is associated with the second decan of Aries (Aries II), we again see Alexander the Great. But now, he’s entered the space. In the first card, Alexander was holding the world in his hands. Now, he’s stepped into the world and into three-dimensionality. He’s in his being, existence, and domain—the king or queen. This reflects the Sun-Sun energy of Aries II: occupying space, being present, and standing in power.
It's an entirely different vibe when we get to the Four of Wands and the third decan. There’s no warrior energy, no conquering. Instead, there’s celebration.
In numerology and the Kabbalah, the number four has to do with fixity—something fixed, a structure that has been built, and spirit entering material form. Before, with the Two and Three of Wands, we had the energy of fire putting itself into the world and occupying space. In the Four of Wands, we see someone or some energy holding that fire, containing it, and creating something solid in the world.
For example, a marriage has been created. Marriage contains the energy of partnership, which is interesting because Venus and Jupiter are co-rulers of this decan. You can imagine Venus and Jupiter working together in harmony, happiness, abundance, and optimism. This energy is beautifully represented in the Four of Wands.
Aries III Rising: Charisma and Creativity
People with their rising sign in the third decan of Aries often embody a unique blend of Mars, Jupiter, and Venus energies. This combination fuels their drive to celebrate life and create something meaningful and beautiful for others to enjoy.
Example: Ron Howard
Actor and director Ron Howard is a notable example of Aries III rising. Known for his early roles as Opie Taylor on The Andy Griffith Show and Richie Cunningham on Happy Days, Howard later transitioned into a celebrated career as a director. Many of his films radiate a positive, inspirational quality, reflecting the influence of Jupiterian energy.
Howard’s work also emphasizes human relationships, a hallmark of Venusian energy. As an Aries rising—a fire sign—he demonstrates the Mars-driven ambition and determination to create meaningful art. Yet, it is the Venusian side of his personality that reveals his artistry and collaborative spirit. His reputation as a kind, approachable director likely stems from this Venusian influence, which softens and balances Mars's assertiveness.
Themes of love, relationships, and emotional bonds are central to Howard’s films, including Cinderella Man, A Beautiful Mind, and Parenthood. His ability to draw deeply heartfelt performances from his actors speaks to Venus’s impact on his creative process.
When we consider Jupiter’s influence, we see Howard as the eternal optimist and storyteller. Jupiter helps explain his talent for recognizing the potential in stories and transforming them into powerful films that resonate universally. His work on Apollo 13 perfectly exemplifies this energy—a tale of triumph over adversity, told with hope and inspiration. This expansive, uplifting quality is quintessentially Jupiterian.
At the same time, Howard’s success is also fueled by Mars energy—the drive to take action and turn vision into reality. His career is a seamless blend of Jupiter’s optimism, Venus’s artistry, and Mars’s determination, making him not just a filmmaker, but a deeply impactful storyteller and collaborator.
Example: Shaquille O’Neal
Shaquille O’Neal, the legendary basketball player, is another individual with his Ascendant, or “Rising,” in Aries III. However, he is far more than just a basketball icon—he’s also a beloved sports commentator, musician, mentor, and philanthropist. Known for his ability to form deep connections with teammates, fans, and colleagues, Shaquille embodies a magnetic and approachable energy.
This charisma can be attributed to the Venusian qualities in his chart. He has his Ascendant in Aries III, and his Venus is also in Aries III, giving her extra power in his chart because she is the triplicity ruler of Aries III. We see Venus’s influence in his talent for connecting with people and his love for entertaining. It also reflects his appreciation for beauty and harmony, evident in his ventures into music, acting, and philanthropy. Venus explains not only his knack for making people laugh but also his drive to create joy and inspiration in the lives of others.
Shaq’s personality also shines with Jupiterian traits. Jupiter, the planet of expansion, generosity, and optimism, plays a key role in shaping his larger-than-life persona. Those with strong Jupiter placements often take on roles as teachers, mentors, and visionaries, sharing their abundance with others. In Shaq’s case, Jupiter’s influence in the 3rd decan of Aries amplifies his natural leadership and desire to uplift others. He is a generous philanthropist and a guiding mentor to young athletes, always spreading positivity and encouragement.
Of course, we cannot overlook the Mars energy that drives his life. As an Aries rising individual, Shaquille embodies the physicality and strength associated with Mars, the planet of action and athleticism. His imposing presence and athletic prowess on the basketball court are classic expressions of this Mars influence.
Together, these planetary energies—Venus, Jupiter, and Mars—paint a vivid picture of Shaquille O’Neal as a remarkable athlete and a compassionate, larger-than-life figure who has dedicated himself to inspiring and uplifting those around him.
Understanding Aries Energy Over Time
Let me double back and talk about the development of Aries energy across the decans because it’s such a fascinating contrast.
If you are an Aries Rising or know someone with an Aries Rising, it can be helpful to know what degree the Ascendant is in the chart.
First Decan (0–10° Aries): This energy is cardinal (likes to start things, has more of a Martian energy) and focuses on beginning things. It’s individualistic and driven by the need to break into the world.
Second Decan (10–20° Aries): This has a bit of a Leo quality, ruled by the Sun. It’s about occupying space, leading others, and being the center.
Third Decan (20–30° Aries): This decan is more Sagittarius-like, with Jupiter’s influence. It’s about something more significant than the individual—building something for the world to enjoy. There’s an emphasis on creating, materializing, and bringing spirit into form. The Four of Wands, associated with Aries III, reflects this energy. Fours, in numerology and the Kabbalah, are about spirit coming into form—creating structure, solidity, and something enduring.
I hope this was helpful. If you enjoyed it, please like and subscribe! In about 10 days, I’ll release a video on the first decan of Taurus. Stay tuned!