Jupiter is the largest of all the true planets. Its mass is greater than all the rest of the planets combined. Some astronomers even consider it to be a failed star. Astrologically, Jupiter is the planet of expansion, growth and optimism. Known as The Greater Benefic, it symbolizes good luck and fortune. In the ancient Indian language Sanskrit Jupiter is called "guru" or teacher. This fits its association with the higher mind, philosophy, truth and religion. Perhaps Jupiter's good fortune derives from the capacity to give us a larger view in which to see the world.

The expansiveness and optimism of Jupiter are restrained in Capricorn where speculation is limited to ideas that can actually be turned into reality. This may put a damper on fantasies, schemes and dreams that entertain the mind but distract from earthbound reality. Capricorn wants measurable results and will be especially skeptical about unproven concepts.

Rewards come to those who make careful plans and stick to them. Persistence is one of Capricorn's strengths, allowing us to overcome obstacles when we are clear about goals and the methods used to reach them. We tend to advance at a more regular pace now rather than by the great leaps forward (and dramatic crashes) that were more common with Jupiter in Sagittarius.

The moralistic and philosophical aspects of Jupiter may take a conservative turn in tradition-loving Capricorn. Beliefs can be turned into action rather than operate as simple expressions of hopes or ideals. Living up to an ethical code and concern for the community overcomes a tendency to advance one's interests in a selfish manner. "It's only business" as a rationale may be too common if ambition is unbridled. Ideally, respect for oneself and others will temper the desire to get ahead at any cost and the highest values of both Jupiter and Capricorn will be served.

Attraction to powerful leaders can justify autocratic behavior in the name of security. However, blindly giving over power to others undermines our collective strength. Each of us is a leader with a unique perspective and wisdom that contributes to our collective well being.

Famous folks with Jupiter in Capricorn include Beethoven, Simon Bolivar, Robert E. Lee, Karl Marx, Emily Dickenson, Adolf Hitler, Jean Cocteau, Linus Pauling, Walt Disney, Charles Lindbergh, Richard Nixon, Jimmy Hoffa, Malcolm X, Noel Tyl, Bill Cosby, Twiggy, Bonnie Raitt, Julia Louis-Dreyfuss, Eminem and Mandy Moore.