Mercury in Sagittarius :

Mercury is the planet that rules over communication, logic, and thinking in general. There are many other significations for Mercury, but we can stick to these for the sake of simplicity.

Each planet has 2 signs where it is most comfortable (exalted or “in domicile”), and 2 signs where it is least comfortable (detriment, or “fall”).

As the Ruler of Gemini and Virgo, Mercury does well with trivia and details (Gemini — its domicile) and information that has practical value (Virgo — its exaltation). Both signs focus in on the particulars in any situation.

In Sagittarius, Mercury is considered debilitated — or in its “detriment” — meaning that it does not function optimally in this sign. In the sign of Sagittarius, Mercury is more inclined to look at the big picture, dismissing the “small stuff” as insignificant details. There is a tendency to see the forest rather than the trees and to focus on the overall idea rather than the practical steps to achieve it. This can lead to a lack of clarity and accuracy in communication and thought.

Mercury (undiluted, and in its purest form) likes facts and figures – the things that make up “the big picture”. In Sagittarius, that focus is diminished. Mercury can become bored with the particulars and zone out, missing the ins-and-outs of a situation or process. Nuance and subtlety are lost on Mercury in Sagittarius.

Think of it this way: Your Grandma made the BEST pot roast and left you a detailed recipe! You want to impress your family and cook something just like your Grandma used to. Do you want to get a general idea of her pot roast? Or do you want it to be just like she made it? If Mercury in Sagittarius is in charge – some seemingly minor ingredient might be left out, whereas Mercury in Gemini or Virgo is going to make sure each ingredient is measured out and added – in the exact same order that your Grandma’s recipe shows.

More positively, Mercury in Sagittarius signals a time when we can be more open-minded. We value Truth (yes, with a capital T!) and honesty. We can be more idealistic and optimistic as well.

_{For an expanded “take” on the dignity of the planets, I highly recommend this article!}