Though it is also compatible with Capricorn, Libra, Cancer and itself, astrologers believe that the best match for Ophiuchus is Pisces. Ophiuchus is considered by some to be the 13th sign of the zodiac, however it is typically not used at all in Western (tropical) astrology, and only occasionally in Eastern (sidereal) astrology.Continue Reading
Many astrologers believe that Ophiuchus should be considered a member of the zodiac because the sun is in the constellation between November 29 and December 17. Other astrologers are of the opinion that Ophiuchus is not a member of the zodiac and is simply a constellation. It would, therefore, inherit the characteristics of Sagittarius and have no defining features of its own.
Ophiuchus is one of 48 constellations catalogued by the Egyptian astronomer Ptolemy in the second century A.D. Its name means "serpent bearer." The traditional depiction of Ophiuchus is of a man holding a serpent.
In ancient Greek sources, the constellation is said to represent Asclepius, the first surgeon and doctor, whose symbol is a serpent. Asclepius was so good at healing that Hades, the god of the underworld, began to be concerned that there wouldn't be enough dead souls to populate his realm. He implored his brother Zeus to strike Asclepius with a thunderbolt. This Zeus did, but he placed Asclepius among the stars to honor him.Learn more about Zodiac