This is the strength that a planet gains due to it being in
an area of zodiacal rulership– so named because it shows the parts of the zodiac where
the traditional planets are always dignified. These regions are
considered to have a fundamental (or essential) relationship with the planet
itself, inasmuch as Mars will always have a special association with Aries,
regardless of its angularity or house position. The main essential dignities
are rulership by sign or exaltation; the lesser dignities are rulership by
triplicity, term or face. A planet is essentially
debilitated when placed in its sign of detriment or fall.