A golden rule in interpretation runs like this: Planets in a house carry a potential and may make things hard or easy, but the house ruler decides the way in which the potential is realized.
~Karen Hamaker-Zondag, The House Connection: How to Read the Houses in an Astrological Chart
Ruler of the 8th house in the 1st house
My transformation begins with self-awareness. My need for transformation is subservient to my need to present a particular image of myself. I transform in an effort to become aware of the impression I give. I transform feelings of vulnerability by being involved with my own persona.
Ruler of the 8th house in the 2nd house
My transformation begins with my attitude towards ownership. My need for transformation is subservient to my need for material security. I transform in an effort to manifest my values. I transform feelings of vulnerability by being involved with the material world.
Ruler of the 8th house in the 3rd house
My transformation begins with my communication skills. My need for transformation is subservient to my need for intellectual interaction. I transform in an effort to be both more receptive and proactive in routine interactions. I transform feelings of vulnerability by writing and conversing on a daily basis.
Ruler of the 8th house in the 4th house
My transformation begins with my roots, heritage and foundation. My need for transformation is subservient to my need for privacy. I transform in an effort to understand my family and where I come from. I transform feelings of vulnerability by safeguarding my privacy.
Ruler of the 8th house in the 5th house
My transformation begins with pleasure. My need for transformation is subservient to my need to have fun. I transform in an effort to express myself and be creative. I transform feelings of vulnerability by being involved in fun, self-expressive, creative, and risky activities.
Ruler of the 8th house in the 6th house
My transformation begins by making adjustments. My need for transformation is subservient to my need to be healthy and have employment. I transform in an effort to make myself well and to be of service. I transform feelings of vulnerability by being involved with animals, work, and health issues, and by conducting self-analysis.
Ruler of the 8th house in the 7th house
My transformation begins in one-to-one relationships. My need for transformation is subservient to my need to be involved in a partnership. I transform in an effort to understand “the other.” I transform feelings of vulnerability through relationships with partners, significant others and adversaries.
Ruler of the 8th house in the 8th house
My transformation begins with the pure desire for transformation. For me, transformation can be an end in itself. I transform in an effort to deal with crisis, to dig deep, and to explore the unknown. I transform feelings of vulnerability through intense experiences.
Ruler of the 8th house in the 9th house
My transformation begins with my opinions. My need for transformation is subservient to my need for expansion. I transform in an effort to expand my horizons. I transform feelings of vulnerability by being involved in larger world issues.
Ruler of the 8th house in the 10th house
My transformation begins with my reputation in society. My need for transformation is subservient to my need for achievement. I transform in an effort to find my true vocation. I transform feelings of vulnerability by being involved in finding my life path.
Ruler of the 8th house in the 11th house
My transformation begins with social reform. My need for transformation is subservient to my need to have friends. I transform in an effort to make connections with like-minded people. I transform feelings of vulnerability by realizing my hopes and dreams.
Ruler of the 8th house in the 12th house
My transformation begins with transcendence. My need for transformation is subservient to my need to be free of bad habits and old patterns of behavior. I transform in an effort to release what limits me. I transform feelings of vulnerability by being involved in solitary activities.
Urobouros
Interception
If you have Leo on the cusp of the 8th house, with Virgo intercepted in the 8th house, the Sun (which rules Leo) becomes the main ruler of the house and Mercury (the ruler of Virgo) becomes the co-ruler of the house.
You should look at the house position of both the Sun and Mercury to gain information about 8th house transformation – keeping in mind that the Sun’s position will be more important than Mercury’s position.
When interpreting house rulers, we must always forget about their ordinary significance as planets for the time being. It makes absolutely no difference which planet acts as ruler of a given house; as house ruler it simply informs us about the ups and downs of that specific house. What matters is whether the planet is well or poorly place, and in which house it stands.
Technically, the ruler of each house is the OWNER of the house it rules… therefore this ruler will describe the house better than any planet placed in that house.
~ Marion D. March & Joan McEvers, The Only Way to Learn Astrology: Horoscope Analysis Vol. 3
Following the Ruler of the 8th House to Where Transformation Begins