If you’ve ever looked up your zodiac sign and you’re a Cancer, you’ve probably noticed that funny little symbol that looks like the number “69” rotated on its side. At first glance, it might seem like a quirky or even random design choice, but in astrology, very little is accidental. So what’s the story behind it? Why “69”? And what does it have to do with Cancer, the fourth sign of the zodiac?
What Is the Cancer Symbol?
In astrology, each zodiac sign has its own glyph—a symbolic shorthand that encapsulates the essence of the sign. For Cancer, the glyph looks like this: ♋. Two opposing curves, each with a circle, interlocked like a mirrored swirl.
To most people, it resembles a sideways 69. And while that might invite a few giggles, the truth behind the symbol is far more meaningful, poetic, and deeply connected to Cancer’s emotional nature.
So, why 69?
Let’s get this out of the way: it’s not what you think (yes, really). The symbol’s resemblance to “69” is mostly coincidental. It actually holds symbolic meaning tied deeply to the nature of the Cancer sign.
Crab Claws or a Crab’s Shell
In astrology, Cancer is symbolized by the crab, and its glyph is often interpreted as a simplified image of the crab’s pincers, curving inward as if to shield or hold onto something precious. It could also be viewed as a depiction of a crab’s spiral shell, sturdy on the outside but holding something soft and vulnerable within.
This perfectly mirrors the Cancer personality: gentle, empathetic, and nurturing—but also incredibly protective and cautious. Much like a crab, Cancers tend to retreat into their “shells” when they feel overwhelmed or threatened.
Another fun theory? Crabs are known for walking sideways or backward, and when you look at the number 69, it’s hard to tell which way is forward and which is backward. It adds a whimsical nod to the crab’s unique movement style and Cancer’s sometimes nostalgic, past-focused tendencies.
Yin and Yang / Duality
Another common interpretation sees the symbol as a representation of balance and duality, much like the concept of yin and yang. The flowing, circular lines of the “69” shape echo the push and pull of emotions, the interplay between light and shadow, inner and outer worlds.
Cancer is ruled by the Moon, which governs tides, rhythms, and our emotional landscape. Just like the moon waxes and wanes, Cancers often experience emotional highs and lows. The 69-like glyph captures this cyclical nature, constant motion, constant change.
A Mother and Child
Cancer is often described as the most nurturing, maternal sign in the zodiac. Some astrologers interpret the symbol as the image of a mother cradling her child, the two spirals representing closeness, care, and unconditional love.
It’s a visual metaphor for Cancer’s desire to protect, nourish, and emotionally connect. Whether in romantic relationships, friendships, or family, Cancers thrive when they can care for others and feel emotionally safe in return.
Shifting Perspectives
Here’s a more abstract but interesting idea: the number 69 can easily become 96 if you flip it, and back again. This fluidity can reflect Cancer’s mood shifts – they can swing from joy to melancholy in the blink of an eye.
As a water sign, Cancer is emotionally deep, sensitive to their surroundings, and influenced heavily by their internal tides. Just like the Moon’s phases, their feelings are constantly evolving, and the mutable appearance of the 69 symbol reflects this ever-changing emotional current.
The Emotional Sign Behind the Symbol
Cancer is a water sign, along with Pisces and Scorpio, and is considered the most emotionally attuned of the three. People born under this sign tend to be intuitive, sentimental, and fiercely loyal. They’re often described as the “homebodies” of the zodiac—drawn to comfort, family, and creating safe spaces.
They don’t just feel emotions—they absorb them. And like the crab, they carry their emotional home with them wherever they go. The “69” symbol, with its curling, connected shapes, mirrors this idea of emotional containment and protection—what’s outside may be strong and guarded, but inside lies deep feeling and vulnerability.
Final Thoughts
The next time you see that sideways 69 symbol, remember that it’s not just a zodiac quirk or a number flipped for fun. It’s a deeply symbolic image that captures the essence of Cancer: nurturing, emotional, intuitive, protective, and ever-changing.
Whether you’re a Cancer yourself or just zodiac-curious, it’s always so fascinating to see how even the smallest symbols can carry layers of meaning, history, and insight. And in the case of Cancer, that little sideways “69” says a whole lot more than you might think. ♋
