Libra Mythology and Its Connection to Virgo

It’s nearly impossible to explore the mythology of Libra without touching on the story of Virgo.

The two constellations share an unusual link that sets them apart from every other myth in the zodiac.

Much of this connection comes from the long-standing debate about the origins of the Virgo myth. As discussed in detail elsewhere, the identity of the figure representing Virgo has always been controversial. After weighing the possibilities, the figure that best fits the role is the star maiden, Astraea.

So how does Astraea tie into Libra? The answer lies in the scales themselves. The most widely accepted explanation is that the scales of Libra actually belong to Astraea, the same figure connected with Virgo.

This creates a fascinating problem: if the scales are hers, then Virgo’s myth cannot only be about purity or maidenhood. The scales are symbols of justice, balance, and fairness—concepts not usually tied to the standard “virgin” interpretation. This tension between purity and justice is the root of the controversy.

On its own, Libra’s mythology is less debated. Everyone agrees that Libra is symbolized by a pair of scales, representing justice, balance, and temperance. They also serve as a warning: when out of alignment, Libras may drift into the opposite traits—imbalance, indecision, or chaos. Maintaining equilibrium is therefore key to Libra’s story.

When we weave both myths together, Astraea emerges as the figure who unites them. She was a virgin goddess of justice, the caretaker of humankind, and the embodiment of fairness. The sheaf of wheat she holds in Virgo marks her role as nurturer, while the scales by her side become Libra. The two constellations remain inseparable, bound by a shared mythology.

Of course, interpretations may differ. If Astraea is not the figure of Virgo, then she is still firmly tied to Libra through the scales of justice. Either way, her presence bridges the myths, and the story of Libra cannot be told without her.

The Origins of Libra Mythology

Libra is unique among the zodiac signs because it is the only one not represented by a person or animal. Situated between Virgo to the west and Scorpius to the east, Libra was once thought to be part of the scorpion itself.

In early Mesopotamia, the stars of Libra were identified as the scorpion’s claws. Ancient Babylonians used the terms zubānā (scales) and zibanitu (scorpion), which led to confusion. At one stage, the constellation was called Chelae Scorpionis—the claws of the Scorpion.

Over time, this view shifted. When the Greeks examined the constellation, they saw instead a pair of scales held by Astraea, the goddess of justice. In their language, Libra was translated as Zygos, meaning “the scales.” This interpretation likely stemmed from even earlier traditions in Sumeria (Zib.ba.anna, the “Heavenly Weighing Scales”) and Akkadia (Zibanitu, the scales).

Thus, Libra’s myth evolved from scorpion’s claws into the scales of justice, carried by Astraea herself.