Simha (Leo), the fifth sign of the zodiac, is symbolized by a lion and is characterized as masculine, fiery and fixed. The significance of the lion symbol is understandable when we realize that the primary quality of this radiation is the Divine urge towards procreation. This is the stage wherein the Cosmic Man darts forth his creative thread of Primordial Light into the labyrinth of chaotic matter, establishing different force centers which lead ultimately to the individualization of man. At this stage the spiritual principles transform themselves into material forms. Simha (Leo) represents creativity, the articulation of the Divine Nature in man; it is Divine Nature objectified.

Fire is the Divine symbol of penance, creativity, and purification, but it is also an element of Nature which cannot adapt itself to anything else. Fire cannot exist in active form in anything else. Simha (Leo) is self-centered, aspiring, ambitious, and arrogant; it is fierce in action, calculating in sexual encounters, choosy in social relationships. Etymologically, Simha means "the protector of its followers," and those who align themselves with this sign will have much natural force at their command. One supreme quality of Simha (Leo) is its suddenness, aggression and frontal attack.

Surya (Sun) owns this sign but no planet is exalted or debilitated here. There is a grace and glow radiating from the Sun. No force which furthers the evolutionary impulse by procreating, or by protecting and leading its followers, can ever experience restrictions on its capacity. This is why no planet is debilitated here. Simha (Leo) is one of the most mysterious signs of the zodiac.