The Book of Signs: Capricorn
By Rudolf Koch | The Sea-Goat
The glyph of Capricorn, representing ambition and structure.
The Mountain Climber
Capricorn, the tenth sign of the zodiac, is symbolized by the mythical Sea-Goat—a creature with the tail of a fish and the body of a goat. This embodies Capricorn's nature: ambitious and grounded, yet capable of navigating emotional depths. Ruled by Saturn, it represents discipline, responsibility, and the pursuit of long-term goals.
Element & Mode
Earth – Practical, reliable, material.
Cardinal – Initiating, leadership, action.
Core Traits
Ambition, discipline, patience, caution, authority, wisdom, resilience. Builders of enduring legacies.
Koch's Interpretation
In Rudolf Koch's Book of Signs, symbols carry historical and spiritual weight. The Capricorn glyph signifies the fusion of material and spiritual realms, a structured ascent toward achievement.
"The glyph of Capricorn is not merely a goat, but a path—the steep climb up the mountain of achievement, where each step is deliberate and earned."
— Inspired by the symbolism of Rudolf Koch
The Sea-Goat in Mythology
In ancient Babylonian mythology, the Sea-Goat was associated with the god Ea, who ruled the waters of wisdom and creation. The symbol later evolved in Greek myth as the goat Amalthea, who nurtured Zeus. This duality reflects Capricorn's capacity for nurturing ambition while drawing from deep, intuitive wisdom.
Guiding Principle
"Through patience and perseverance, the summit is reached."