What is the rising sign? In astrology, the rising sign — also known as the rising sign — is the sign that was rising on the eastern horizon at the time of your birth. Unlike your sun sign, which is determined by your date of birth, the rising sign depends on the time and location of your birth. It changes every two hours, making it one of the most personal and specific elements in your birth chart. The rising sign acts as a mask that you wear when meeting people; it defines your outward personality, physical appearance, and how you present yourself to the world. While the sun sign reveals your inner self and ego, the rising sign reflects how others see you. The rising sign is considered the “gateway” to the birth chart because it determines the layout of the houses in your chart. The rising sign begins with the first house and therefore sets the stage for all the houses that follow. This is why an accurate birth time is essential to creating a reliable horoscope. The influence of you...