In the 4th house, we turn inward. It describes a mental and physical state where we are genuinely alone with ourselves, without external stimuli. Traditionally, the astrological fourth house has been associated with home, and it is true that within the walls of our own home, most of us naturally feel free to be ourselves. We retreat into the peace of our own homes to gather strength so that we can engage with the outside world again. The 4th house also represents our childhood and the home environment of our early years. The elements that we have absorbed during childhood become essential parts of our psyche as we grow. From the sign and planetary positions of the fourth house, we can interpret how these forces subconsciously influence us. The 4th house symbolizes this growth and rooting of the psyche.
Home Environment and Partner
Mars in 4th house synastry placement brings movement and activity into our home environment. Our partner may see things in our home that they want to influence with their own opinions. This isn’t always necessarily a bad thing. For instance, they may be effective in renovating our home, taking on the role of an interior designer. On the other hand, if we strongly desire to make decisions about our own home, this can lead to various conflicts.
If the partners share a home, the Mars individual is likely to be the more active participant, dictating how things should be done in the household. If the couple finds common ground, this setup can lead to an energetic and active shared home life.
Childhood, parents, and family
The fourth house represents our current home, but it also symbolizes our childhood home and our parents. In a synastry chart, Mars in this house can indicate a partner who is involved in various activities with the individual’s parents. Perhaps they help the individual’s father build a summer cottage and go fishing with him. Mars can also be a planet of conflict, so if the energies don’t align, the partner may also engage in constant disputes with the individual’s parents. In any case, their relationship with the individual’s parents is somehow energized. The Mars partner may also be particularly interested in the partner’s childhood, family, and the traditions they have always followed.
Psyche and Emotions
In this synastry chart configuration, the Mars individual may have a keen insight into the landscape of the individual’s mind, touching their sensitive emotions with their actions. Depending on the sensitivity of the individual, this can sometimes be painful. The emotional sensitivity of the house partner can sometimes surprise and confuse the Mars counterpart. Depending on the aspects of Mars, they may even begin to avoid their own natural assertiveness to protect their partner.
For example, a harmonious aspect between Mars and Pluto can help partners confront hidden and subconscious repressions. In a therapist-patient synastry chart, this would be a highly rewarding position.
If the individual’s Neptune is in a challenging aspect with Mars, they may subconsciously avoid the actions of the partner. They may not necessarily want to see the truth about the other party, even if it is very clear to others. This does not necessarily mean ill intentions on the part of the Mars individual. They may, for instance, want to highlight certain problematic areas in the individual’s emotional life, but the individual simply closes their eyes even though the partner is trying to help them.