Q

Qabbala

Esoteric teachings that deal with mystical ideas of creation and concepts of a spiritual nature, based in the Hebrew/Gnostic scriptures. Qabbala (Kabbalah, Cabala, or other variant) features interpretations of the Tree of Life, the Zohar, numerical keys to the Bible etc.

Qi

Subtle energy of the life-force, the control of which is one of the goals of yoga, tantra, tai chi, qigong and similar disciplines. Also known as Chi, Ch'i, Ki and in Yoga, Prana.

Qigong

Traditional Chinese exercise designed to cultivate qi (vital energy, or life-force).

Quadrants

The four quarters in a chart, or the four seasons in the year, or the zodiac.

Quadrate

Major malefic square aspect of 90 degrees, dividing the circle of the zodiac into quarters, four equal segments.

Quadrasextile

Quincunx aspect, see below.

Quadratures

Moon's dichotomes: changes, phases or quarters. Frequently referred to as the square aspect.

Quadruplicity

Quality, or Modality.

Quality

Modality, or Quadruplicity. Each sign is characterised by the combination of its Quadruplicity or Quality (Cardinal, Fixed, or Mutable) and its Triplicity, or Element (Fire, Earth, Air, or Water).

Quantum Entanglement

Possible scientific basis for the "action at a distance" implied by astrology and denied by skeptics. For a non-technical outline, see Quantum Entanglement by Dave Jarvis.

Quartile

Square. A major malefic aspect of 90 degrees. See Quadrate, also Square.

Querent

Person asking a question of the astrologer.

Quesited

Person or thing enquired after in an horary question.

Quincunx

An aspect of 150°, creating stress, unhappiness and sorrow. The aspect has a 6th or 8th house effect, depending on whether the swifter planet is applying or separating from the opposition to the slower. Technically this is not a proper aspect in the traditional sense, as a planet is unable to "see" another in this relationship. Classed as inconjunct and considered particularly unfortunate by the ancients, this aspect is not thought unduly malefic by many modern astrologers, but is to be ignored at one's peril. See Inconjunct.

Quindecile

Kepler's minor 24 degree aspect. Somewhat favourable.

Quintessence

Fifth alchemical principle. The underlying spiritual basis underpinning the four elements, corresponding to the idea of the æther, or space-time continuum. Not used in practical astrology. See Akasha, also Dark Energy.

Quintile

Somewhat favourable aspect of 72 degrees. One fifth of the zodiac, its influence is associated with 5th house matters, bringing artistic or creative use of crisis situations. So it is also a bit of a pressure-cooker.