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what's happening.......month of Cancer

22/6/2012

Month of Cancer 21 June - 21 July

On 21 June (9:10 am EST) the Sun entered Cancer, marking the solstice and the beginning of winter in our southern hemisphere (and summer in the north). This is one of 4 celestial turnings during each yearly cycle of the Sun, those points that key-in the seasonal rhythm.

The solstices accord with the longest and shortest days of the year and the equinoxes (on 21/22 March and September) equate to those days of equal dark and light. These dates differ from the meteorological start dates (of 1 Mar, Jun, Sep and Dec) though different countries observe the start(s) at different times, dependant often on their latitudes or, in the case of Pennsylvania, on whether a groundhog sees his shadow when emerging from his burrow! Connection with the Solar rhythm is the astrological custom and these times have been revered and celebrated in ceremonies for thousands of years.

The watery, nurturing and empathetic qualities of the Crab are highlighted at this time, coloured of course by the prevailing energies. These comprise the major outer planet alignments and the contacts formed as the quicker moving planets move in and out of their many aspect patterns. Some of the meanings behind the current outer planet dynamics have been touched on in recent blog commentaries, specifically Volatility…… the new norm** which overviews the square of Uranus and Pluto (in Aries and Capricorn respectively) and the recent shift by Neptune into Pisces, where it joins Chiron, detailed in What’s happening……month of Pisces**. Suffice to say the four outer planets are all active at this time and their archetypal themes are demonstrating everywhere.
(** refer to 'Categories' in the right hand margin of this site)

The beginning of this month’s Sun cycle contains one especially significant day – the 24th of June. This is a real milestone day, a day of rich symbolism. Why? It is the day upon which the first of seven exact Uranus/Pluto squares take place between now and 2015. The vagaries of the planetary orbits (and Uranus and Pluto have somewhat ‘eccentric’ orbits) plus the phenomena of retrograde motion, means that two planets can have more than one exact contact. This occurs when the faster of the two forms an exact aspect (commonly a conjunction, opposition or square) to the slower planet, moves on, then later comes back (by retrograde motion), forming the aspect and continuing ‘backward’. After a time it changes direction once again, moving toward the aspect point before once again continuing on (called astrologically a ‘separation’).

Sometimes there is only one contact via the forward motion of the faster planet. More than occasionally there are 3 contacts (forward, back and forward). This is often the pattern of Saturn’s return (which I’ll do a piece on some time later). Rarely there are 5 contacts. And very, very rarely there are 7! Seven of course is a highly occult number and significant in astrology as the number of traditional planets, i.e. those visible to the senses, which is in turn the basis of the seven days of the week

June 24 is the first of the series of seven exact Uranus/Pluto contacts. The chart for the event is quite special and very rich in symbolism. As fate (or destiny perhaps) would have it, the Moon moves into Virgo on that day. The chart for that moment follows:

Perfect Square + Moon in Virgo
9:44 pm
Sydney Australia

I won’t attempt to interpret every element of the chart but some observations are:

1. The Sun (in Cancer) forms a T-Square with Uranus and Pluto. We’ve been subject to the Uranus/Pluto energies for some time now and will continue to be for several years to come. History of cause will reveal what the pivotal points of the cycle have been (as they have been observed in all the previous Uranus/Puto cycles). The post GFC economic environment, the Arab spring and the global ‘Occupy’ movement, to name three, have already left an indelible impression……and there is the sense of more (maybe much more) to come.

The alignment with the Sun suggests power themes – big time. There is strength and force here, potency but also purity. In a T-Square the energies are felt to be at odds with one another, pushing in different directions. But these three are all strong and the ’equality’ between them adds to the dynamism. The vacant ‘4th spot’ in Libra holds a key to how some of this force may distribute and manifest

2. For the Sydney chart the angles (Ascendant/Descendent/IC/MC) are all ‘activated’ with Neptune and Chiron on the Pisces Ascendant opposite the Moon in Virgo on the Descendent and a triple conjunction of Jupiter, Venus and the South Node in Gemini opposite the North Node on the MC in Sagittarius. Collectively they form a Grand Cross (or grand square). Generally speaking the grand cross is as tense as a T-Square, or more so. With no release point the energies potentially spin and spin until something gives. On the other hand the Grand Cross can signal a tremendous quality of receptivity where cosmic and finer energies are picked up, as if by radar, through a heightened state of sensitivity. That the planets involved in the mix are feminine in nature (with the exception of Jupiter which is friendly and adds positivity and expansiveness), contributes to the feeling of a dynamic which matches and (in this chart) transcends the masculine force represented by Sun, Uranus and Pluto.

3. Most interestingly the Sun, Uranus and Pluto feed into the Grand Cross via flowing and supportive aspects – trines and sextiles. Specifically the Sun is trine Neptune, Chiron and the Ascendant and sextile the Moon; Pluto is flowing the other way – Trine the Moon and sextile Neptune, Chiron and the Ascendant and Uranus is sextile Venus, Jupiter and the South Node and trine the North Node on the MC.

4. The sense of these patterns (squares and oppositions interacted by trines and sextiles) is of cooperation. Significantly there is a feeling of the masculine supporting the feminine on the brink of a new impulse. Adding to this potential and expressing its cosmic scope is the alignment of the Moon and the star Regulus. Renowned for its association with royalty, position and power Regulus has been the star of kings, though its meaning (from the Arabic) is ‘little king’, which conjures images of the Child and of the potential for greatness.

Greek and later Roman astrologers referred to this star as ‘Cor Leonis’ - the heart of the Lion. He is the alpha (or main) star in the Leo constellation and for thousands of years has been the ‘watcher of the north’, one of four royal stars standing in each of the four fixed signs marking the ‘cross of the heavens’. In mythology each star is associated with one of the 4 archangels – Regulus with Raphael, the angel of healing. This accords with the relation to Leo and to the vitalising and healing powers of the Sun.

5. The astronomic process by which we define the 26,000 year cycle of the ages, where each sign is seen to rule a 2,100+ year period, is known as precession. It is via precession that we are transiting from the Piscean to the Aquarian age and it is by the same slow celestial movement that Regulus is now shifting from a 2,000+ year stint in Leo into Virgo. This is taking place now, though Regulus will be at 0° for 70 odd years.

Many astrologers, as well as metaphysical scholars. view this as a significant and sacred period where a power shift is taking place from a masculine/solar order to a feminine/lunar order. In this age it will perhaps not be so much a supplanting of one by the other but a period of integration and equality, of yin and yang and heart and mind. In this is held something of the mystery of the Sphinx, to which Leo/Virgo has long been associated.

What is stunning about this chart is that on the day that marks the first of seven exact Uranus/Pluto contacts (which is unique in itself) and amidst such a potent set of alignments, the Moon is also conjunct Regulus. It will of course conjunct Regulus every month in its cycle, but perhaps never so importantly (at least symbolically) as right now. The symbol of the Queen conjunct the higher Sun is a perfect representation of the cusp of Virgo and Leo and the union of female and male; made all the more so by the Moon’s status as the soul (or esoteric) ruler of Virgo.

In this placement the Moon is a symbol of the Mother; not the mother of life (or mother nature) connoted by the Moons relation to Cancer, but the Mother of the Christ, or the Christ potential, dwelling within each human being. Here the Moon in Virgo is a symbol of the process that we enact when we have sufficiently awoken to the reality of this potential within ourselves and set about nurturing, informing, protecting and mothering this life in priority to all other activities. And much of the promise of this possibility is held in the opposition of Moon/Regulus to the mystical Neptune in Pisces on the Ascendant and the squares to the nodes – the highway from the past to the future and from the lower to the higher.

In summary then (and putting the nodal contact to one side for the moment), we have a cardinal. yang or masculine oriented T-square interwoven with a mutable, yin, or feminine oriented T-square, brought into play by the Sun (linking the cardinal pattern) and the Moon (linking the feminine pattern). The Sun and Moon are the soul or esoteric rulers of Leo and Virgo. The pattern is active on Sunday leading into Monday (after which the Moon will 'spin' off). Sunday and Monday are the days 'ruled' by The Sun and the Moon. Regulus, the cosmic ruler of Leo but now moving into Virgo, is in the mix. And this on the day that initiates a seven-fold contact (or dance!) between Uranus and Pluto - the great agents of change.

More to follow.

Cheers

Bob

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what's happening.......month of Gemini

21/5/2012

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Month of Gemini 21 May - 20 Jun

On 21 May the Sun moved into Gemini, a day marked also by a New Moon and therefore a unique double beginning - a perfect and poetic fit with the symbolism of the Twins. Gemini is the first of the dual signs, in some systems represented as two brothers and in others as two sisters. The constellation’s signature stars, Castor and Pollux, have been revered since ancient times as the heavenly archetypes, representative of all the pairs of opposites – day and night, dark and light, masculine and feminine, mortal and immortal, body and soul.

Castor and Pollux are celestial reminders of duality as the basis of the manifested world and in particular how we experience it. We only know pleasure in relation to pain, happiness to sadness, success to failure and so on. Duality enables perspective and discrimination.

This reinforces the assignment of Mercury as the ruler of Gemini. Those with strong Gemini characteristics (Sun, Moon, Ascendant or multiple planet placements in Gemini and or strongly emphasised Mercury) are most often bright, mentally active, inquisitive, versatile, social and elusive, as befits the mutable and airy quality of this sign/planet configuration.

Significantly, as the third sign, Gemini symbolises a third force, relating opposites one to the other. Gemini is thus pre-eminently a sign of relating. Through the agency of Mercury information is assimilated, analysis and comparison undertaken and knowledge gained (both useful and useless varieties alike). Add in Uranus as the ruler of technology, Aquarius as the sign associated with the world wide web and the global circulation of ideas and connections; plus Libra, the people sign, working through Venus, motivating the phenomenon of social media, and the three Air signs working together can be seen as being potently expressive and influential as we now transit into the Aquarian (Air) Age.

In Soul centred astrology it is Venus who is ascribed rulership of Gemini. By this is meant a transition from Mercurial to Venusian relatedness. Where Mercury acts to define and relate opposites by objectifying them, Venus seeks to merge and blend them. Here feeing and intuition interact with the mind to bring about a different order of intelligence, motivated by harmony and, at the highest level, by love. This unifying of opposites and the principle of union represents the true object of self or spiritual development, the Hermaphrodite (Hermes/Aphrodite or Mercury/Venus) being an eternal symbol. In this great alchemical process Gemini stands as the Child, the third aspect of the trinity, both the force of attraction between the Father/Mother (Aries/Taurus) principles and also the fruit of their union. Behind these symbols lies the deeper meaning of giving birth to oneself. Consistent with its many dual qualities and the principle of duality itself, Gemini contains both the seeds of superficiality and the deepest of mysteries.

Soul centred Venus/Gemini themes will be especially highlighted in the coming weeks by the once in a hundred plus year transit of Venus and the Sun. Students of astronomy/astrology will be aware that a unique relation exists between these two. In an eight year cycle Venus makes five conjunctions to the Sun, tracing a celestial pentagram, or 5 pointed star, in the process. In this cycle is expressed much of the beauty and symmetry so much associated with Venus. The 8 year Venus cycle is linked to a larger pattern where the orbital planes of the 2 bodies intersect every 100+ years. I won’t attempt to outline the physics here but it may be likened to the distinction between an ordinary new or full moon and an eclipse. During the transit Venus can be seen moving across the face of the Sun. This last occurred in 1874 and 1882 (note the 8 years) and before that in 1761 and 1769. The observance of the 1769 transit (to assist a deeper scientific understanding of the Solar System) was James Cook’s primary objective in visiting the Pacific. The discovery of Australia and New Zealand (the great southern lands) was assigned second!

For all of us this will be a once in a lifetime event (including the 2004 transit), the next passing being in 2117. For students and lovers of astrology there is much to ponder on the fact that each pair of transits takes place in the sign Gemini and its opposite Sagittarius (1631/1639 Sag, 1761/1769 Gemini, 1874/1882 Sag, 2004/2012 Gemini). The soul centred meaning of Venus in Gemini will be once again projected onto the cosmic stage on June 6 this year (at 15° Gemini), perhaps to remind us that heart and mind and the fusion of opposites and the power of love as the highest expression of intelligence are what we are individually geared to and capable of and where we, as a species, are ultimately heading.

The Mayans utilised and integrated a Venus calender into their intricate system. That their 5,000+ year calender 'ends' in the year of the Venus transit - 2012, gives even more food for thought on the nature of whatever new phase we are about to enter?

Until next time.......cheers

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what's happening?.......month of Taurus

26/4/2012

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Month of Taurus 20 Apr - 21 May

The Sun's shift into Taurus in 2012 is closely timed to the new moon, exact on 21 April, aligning powerfully as it does with Mars (in Virgo), Pluto (in Capricorn) and Neptune and Chiron (in Pisces). These are all yin/feminine signs that collectively form a Kite pattern. A Kite is a Grand Trine (in this case in Earth) with a fourth point (Neptune/Chiron in Pisces), adding an extra level of dynamism. A Grand Trine is most often associated with a positive flow of energy, as the planets are linked in the same element.

In a personal chart this most often demonstrates as some type of talent or special ability, and an innate sense of ease and harmony. Often however the individual is not motivated and can easily rest on their laurels, as it were, and not perfect or develop their gift. This is where square and opposition patterns are important. They are the driven, sometimes restless impulses that can spur us on.

In the Kite pattern the 4th planet (or chart point) stimulates and sometimes agitates the grand trine, usually to positive and practical effect. In the current chart Neptune/Chiron opposes Mars and forms sextile (60°) aspects to Pluto and the Sun/Moon, suggesting that this is a good period to activate plans, all the more so with the symbolic support of the New Moon exalted in Taurus.

In the Moon’s exaltation in Taurus is much to remind us of not just practical and aesthetic themes, but of that special affinity between the nurturing principle of the Mother and the living Earth (Moon/Taurus). Mother Nature is a term in common use but one that we too seldom take for granted and fail to appreciate. And it is the relationship between man and earth which reflects so many modern predicaments……climate change, over population, rampant extinction of species, deforestation, water, soil and air quality etc.

Resources are also part of this core Taurus theme. That Australia is a resource based economy/country says much about our place in the world and especially its future, as we grapple (gamble with?) the economic benefit of extracting and selling finite and non-renewable minerals etc versus acting on, innovating toward and championing more sustainable and holistic alternatives.

That values are also a key Taurean motif is a reminder that our attitude toward the planet and the collective of life forms who share it, and our management of air, water, soil, forests, oceans and natural resources, will be perhaps the defining ingredient upon which the potential of a more cooperative, universal and harmonious world rests.

This month is power packed with Taurean symbolism - with the Sun’s passage through Taurus commencing on a new moon and forming part of a Grand Trine in Earth. The sense of the Mother is heightened by these configurations via which Taurus represents a lens through which feminine and healing energies pour. They are perhaps so arranged to help focus our attention on a greater life of which we are part.

Cheers,

Bob

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what's happening?......month of Aries

20/3/2012

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Month of Aries 20 Mar - 19 Apr

The 20th of March marks the beginning of the astrological year, the time when the Sun crosses the celestial equator on its annual journey. The autumn equinox in the southern hemisphere and the spring equinox in the north, it is the Aries point (zero degrees Aries), the start of a new cycle and the sounding of a note whose vibration will resonate and unfold during the coming year.

Spring (in the northern hemisphere where astrology and much of our genetic/cultural heritage originates) has been celebrated since antiquity as a time of birth; a time when buds and first fruits appear and the natural world abounds with new life. The innocence and purity of the lamb, as a universal symbol of the possibility that this new life contains, is also intrinsically part of the symbolism of Aries, the sign of beginnings.

In a personal horoscope the Solar Return marks the moment when the Sun returns to its exact natal position. And a chart for this moment will indicate energies and themes for the coming year, as revealed by the planetary picture/aspect pattern, and especially by the house position of the Sun. On a much bigger scale the Sun’s entry into Aries each year suggests something of Planet Earth’s, and thus our collective, Solar Return.

So how does the year ahead look?

Aries Ingress
20 March 2012
4:33 pm
Sydney

March 20, 2012 sees the Sun join Mercury and Uranus at the beginning of Aries – a most potent placement. The Sun is of course exalted in Aries, reinforcing the significance of this annual placement. In esoteric astrology Mercury is referred to as the soul ruler of Aries, meaning that it acts as a conduit for the Aries ray, influencing the soul or finer nature (as distinct from the mundane, personality nature); via the mind (Mercury). Aries we know governs the head. Mercury in Aries in this context conveys mental clarity, perception and direction.

At a still higher level (higher than the individual Soul) Uranus is designated the hierarchical or spiritual rulership of Aries. This alludes to the higher, intuitional mind via which communication takes place directly with the realms of spirit - the akasha of the Sanskrit teachings. It is at this level that angelic guides are said to work and interact with our world, through the medium of the zodiacal rays.

In other branches of astrology Uranus is referred to as the higher octave of Mercury, reinforcing the notion of 2 levels of mind.

The Sun and Mercury joined to Uranus are thus linked to that planet’s square to Pluto (in Capricorn). I have covered this relationship in previous posts but it is worth reiterating that this is the major pattern of the period (and is especially ‘active’ till 2015). In the coming year mental (ideas) and communication themes will be fuelled by the intense, revolutionary and unpredictable qualities of Uranus/Pluto. The capacity for misunderstanding, disconnection, discovery and spiritual breakthrough will be equally poised; dependant on whether old attitudes, mob mentality or a more centred quality of consciousness prevails.

Pluto is in turn linked into the very positive and harmonious grand trine in Earth (Pluto in Capricorn, Venus and Jupiter in Taurus, Mars in Virgo). This planetary relationship shows Pluto functioning in 2 spheres and suggests something of a hiatus, or pause, in much of the volatility that has characterised the past year and more. This is a period of relative stability (Earth) before whatever other storms may lay ahead.

Mars (retrograde) in Virgo is in turn opposite the triple conjunction of Moon, Chiron and Neptune. These 3, as detailed in last month’s post, constitute a feminine, receptive and potentially transcendent energy, impacting the emotional, creative and astral dimensions of life.

Lastly Saturn, who is in a friendly trine to the Moon/Chiron/Neptune alignment, completes a picture in which all eleven members of the planetary family are ultimately connected. This perhaps says much about the potential for the coming year – the power of connection and what working together, making allowance for each other and aspiring toward clear goals can achieve. Potential is of course just that, embryonic possibility requiring activation through the agency of choice and free will - something humanity is still trying to get the hang of!

The attached chart for Sydney (and the eastern seaboard) sees the Sun in the 8th house. So an emphasis on transformation, secrets and the resources of others (income from the mining tax or the State Governments announcement today that it will seek to actively increase skilled migration to boost the local economy?) is suggested.

A good omen, perhaps, is Leo rising at the time the Sun crossed into Aries. The Sun rules Leo and is exalted in Aries, so purity of spirit and courage (and not solar flares) will hopefully define the coming year. And finally the New Moon in Aries on 22 March extends the sense and symbolism of beginnings.

Happy New Year!

Cheers

Bob

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what's happening?........month of Pisces

8/3/2012

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Month of Pisces 20 Feb - 20 Mar

“Water, water everywhere” could well be the sub-title of this piece and of this time, particularly for those of us who live in Sydney and/or along the eastern seaboard! And the waters; physical, emotional and spiritual, are flowing.....as we’ll see…..

[Because of commitments on other fronts, including gearing up to present the workshop 2012 – Mayans, Mayhem & Maya (an overview of which I’ll post soon), there was no “what’s happening …… month of Aquarius”. So with apologies to all things Aquarian this blog is a double catch up on the current planetary pattern…… and a little of what’s up ahead.]

Pisces we know is a water sign. Some would say the most watery of the water signs! And quite intriguingly the preceding sign, Aquarius, has as its symbol the Water Bearer. There is thus something unique and mystical in the relationship between these two, a symbolic affinity that no other pair of signs demonstrates quite so clearly. Notwithstanding it is a good reminder that the relation between all adjoining signs, and the effect of planets transiting signs, is much more about a transition in energetic states than the crossing of hard boundaries.

So the transit of Neptune, the God of the Waters, from Aquarius into Pisces during early February, not only reinforced, symbolised and actualised these transitional themes, but marked a powerful, once in a 160 year cyclic shift. During April and August 2011 Neptune tipped into Pisces and then moved back into Aquarius, as part of its retrograde motion. But it was its transit on 4 February 2012 which marked the end of its 13+ year period in Aquarius and initiated the beginning of a new cycle, starting with Pisces. The last time Neptune initiated a cycle through Pisces was in 1848.The significance of course is that Neptune is the ruler of Pisces and as such has returned home.

To arrive home Neptune passes through Aquarius, the sign of the Water Bearer. If the transition from sign to sign is a subtle one then the shift from age to age (a 2,100 year cycle) is so much more so, and there is much to ponder on the significance of the ruler of the Piscean Age passing through the sign of the New Age, to begin a new cycle; and of the symbolic significance of the watery connection between the two?

By its shift into Pisces Neptune aligned more closely with Chiron, the Wounded Healer. The event was in turn amplified on 22 Feb by the New Moon. We thus had Sun, Moon, Neptune and Chiron in a fourfold conjunction in the very early degrees of Pisces. The aura of beginnings represented by the New Moon made more immediate the generational beginning initiated by Neptune, a linking of macro and micro cycles precipitating (excuse the pun) and exacerbating the “flow” of Piscean energy.

In time I feel we will see this as a significant period. And to employ another pun, we may view it as a watershed in regards global consciousness and the appearance (though more felt than seen to begin with) of an emerging receptivity, particularly by those with a growing spiritual perspective and sensibility. The Neptune/Piscean energy speaks to us of emotion, empathy, creativity, sacrifice, higher inspiration and psychic possibilities on the one hand, and all manner of naivety, deceptiveness and dreaminess on the other.

Indeed dreams are a unique part of Neptune’s realm. Maya in Hindu can refer to both illusion and reality; the power to create illusion but also the power to make our dreams a reality. Neptune thus seeks to dissolve barriers. In conjunction with Chiron it ‘offers’ a softer, finer and more transcendent contrast/complement to the revolutionary, intense and more yang energies of Uranus and Pluto, which are so potent at present.

Tonight we have the Full Moon in Virgo (opposite the Pisces Sun). This is a culmination of the cycle begun with the Pisces New Moon. In Atlantean myth this lunar period was considered the most sacred time of year - Virgo then being known as the Fish Goddess. In later Christian mysticism this revealed as the relation between Mary (meaning of the sea) and her son, the Fisher of men and the initiator of the Piscean Age.

Right now we are entering a new era of water.

Cheers

Bob

Note:
In the next post I will look to outline Neptune in Pisces in its historical context, which may help us to have a sense of the qualities that might unfold in the coming years.

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what's happening.........Month of Capricorn

31/12/2011

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Month of Capricorn 22 Dec - Jan 20

Twice a year the Sun reaches its maximum declination north and south of the equator. Known as the solstices, these two turning points define summer and winter and the longest and shortest days in their respective hemispheres. We define them as 0° Capricorn and 0° Cancer. For millennia these were symbolically and historically significant times worshiped by almost all cultures. In the northern hemisphere the light (of the sun) reaches its lowest point on 22 December each year and thereafter begins to ‘rise’. In many cultures winter solstice rituals commemorated this re-birthing principle and these practices were almost certainly the forerunner of Christmas and the Christian worship of the birth of the light of the world.

Christmas day this year features a new Moon - the Sun and Moon together in the early degrees of Capricorn. This is traditionally considered a new beginning and adds greatly to the aura and symbolic significance of Christmas. Even more uniquely the new Moon will be conjunct Pluto! The pristine quality of the new moon in combination with the profound, dynamic and transformational Pluto indicates a generally calm and peaceful energy/day atop a deep current of feelings; particularly supportive for those in a reflective/contemplative mood or frame of mind.

New Year’s Eve also has a strong lunar signature. At midnight (Sydney time) the Moon will have transited into the early degrees of Aries and therefore into conjunction with Uranus. The Sun meanwhile remains in close proximity to its conjunction with Pluto (in Capricorn). This combining of personal and transpersonal archetypes (Sun/Pluto and Moon/Uranus) in a close and dynamic square opens a Pandora’s Box of possibilities for the beginning of that most eagerly (and for some nervously) awaited of years – 2012.

The current Uranus (in Aries) / Pluto (in Capricorn) square is THE major planetary pattern of this period. Beginning in 2008, it will continue to dominate the astrological landscape for much of the rest of this decade, with its epicentre being 2012-2015. I have recently previewed this pattern in the preceding blog, titled “Volatility, the new norm” (see below)

The unpredictable, impulsive and freedom seeking Uranus, in dynamic aspect with the intense, compulsive and transformational Pluto, is very much a 'sign' of the times. Revolution and power are core themes. Protest, struggle, uprising, experimentation, confrontation - all expressions of a restless 'spirit', are playing out on many levels, in many fields.

Coincidently the first quarter Moon (when the Moon is square the Sun) is seen by some astrologers to convey similar layers of symbolism. This combination has been referred to, somewhat eerily, as “crises in action”, a time in which the challenge is to manage the energy which is released by crisis and then to restructure it into its new form!

An interpretation from the highly regarded Kepler program states in part that…”people born during this phase are able to rise to the occasion of any emergency. They are able to make split second decisions and act on them. They have the ability to tear down old structures and to recreate new ones. They are the pioneers, the trail blazers, the hero and the heroine. It is likely they will create conflict in the lives of those entrenched in the status quo”

If midnight on 31 December 2011 is seen as a “birth” then the keywords for this Sun/Moon combination - clearing, action, building - reinforce the global (for that is what relationships between the outer planets seem to suggest) urge toward Uranian change powered by Plutonic force, demonstrating so potently in the world at this time.

To add spice to the symbolic mix Mars will be rising (that is close to the ascendant) at midnight Sydney time. The presence of the ruler of fireworks, accidents and other volatile activities, including anti- social behaviours, does add to the unpredictable energy, though hopefully he will be suitably refined and inhibited in the sign of Virgo?

The Sun/Pluto, Moon/Uranus and Mars rising combo does portend of a dynamic beginning to the year and the likelihood of more (perhaps much more!) uncertainty and change.

In the next instalment(s) I’ll look to broaden the picture including a consideration of Saturn, Jupiter and Neptune and how they interact with the prevailing energies.

Cheers

Bob

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what's happening.....Month of Sagittarius

24/11/2011

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Each astrological month, under the the theme of "what's happening", I review the ever changing planetary picture and attempt to hone in on what it has to reveal..........

Month of Sagittarius

23 November 2011 - 22 December 2011

BIG PICTURE..........

The Uranus / Pluto square dominates, as it will until well into 2017. The unpredictable, impulsive and freedom seeking Uranus, in dynamic aspect with the intense, compulsive and transformational Pluto, is very much a 'sign' of the times. This is the first major aspect between these two planetary heavyweights since the 1960's; a time of unparalleled change and upheaval. Revolution and power are core themes. Protest, struggle, uprising, experimentation, confrontation - all expressions of a restless 'spirit', are playing out on many levels, in many fields. A global (for that is what relationships between the outer planets seem to suggest) urge toward Uranian change, powered by Plutonic force, is demonstrating and will continue to be a feature of life for some time yet. Buried within the uncertainty and the unpredictability are the seeds of the 'new', as we are already witnessing. This 'new' is expressing in all spheres of life. New of course is not always better, but seen in the context of larger cycles is always connected to the evolutionary impulse. These transits (of the outer planets) are intrinsically collective in scope, however they offer 'opportunity' at the individual level to those whose horoscopes are 'linked'. If you have the Sun, Moon, Ascendant, nodes or other significant placements in cardinal (Aries, Cancer, Libra, Capricorn) signs, then this can be a rich, rewarding and of course challenging period for you. Those with placements in the early degrees of the cardinal signs are first cabs off the rank, progressing through the middle and late degrees as the cycle develops over the next 6 years or so (it has already been 'active' since 2010). Regardless of personal horoscope configurations this powerful, once in a generation line up will, or can, be harnessed by all those working at and striving toward freedom from old patterns and old ways

HERE AND NOW.......

The Sun began its annual sojourn in Sagittarius on 23/11, Sydney time. For most this is the beginning of the run up to Christmas, that hectic and often hedonistic time of year. Social activities and commitments escalate, and shopping, for both gifts and food, commands more and more of our time. As we near the big day tensions can rise (exacerbated by family and other obligations) alongside more positive expectations. Indulgence and excess vies with religion and ritual, recklessness and insensitivity with charity and camaraderie, and unbounded superficiality blots out, but not completely, wonderful demonstrations of reverence and love

At this time there is surely not a more apt astrological figure than Sagittarius and its ruler Jupiter, Lord of Expansion….in all directions! Stimulating the build up in this festive period are 2 eclipses, the first on 25/11, a partial solar (new moon) eclipse, and the potent total lunar (full moon) eclipse on 11/12. The first, on 25/11, coincides with Mercury turning retrograde (also in Sagittarius). Traditionally associated with communication (and sometimes equipment) blocks and delays, this retrograde phase (which extends to 15/12) may be seen to subtly diffuse some of the pre Xmas spirit. And some will see it as something of a bad omen in regards deadlines, often a pressure point at this time of year. Personally I am hoping that it doesn’t contrive to frustrate the posting of this article! On a more topical note it seems a delicious coincidence that a major upheaval in the National Parliament occurred on the eve of this alignment, with the resignation of the sitting Speaker and the appointment of a new Speaker, on the final day and in the final minutes of the last sitting session for this year. In the first instance it involved the Speaker (Mercury). In the second, and from the opposition’s perspective, there was no warning and they had no information (Mercury retrograde). Thirdly, it occurred at the dark phase of the Moon, a hidden time. Fourthly, the eclipse is square Chiron (in early Pisces), so there is pain and loss involved! On the other hand the Government, who engineered the coup, seem to have had daring and a sense of adventure on their side, characteristic of Sagittarius/Jupiter.

The second eclipse (on 11/12) does not form as many aspects but is nonetheless a powerful motif. Its signature is intensification of energy, which will be worth bearing in mind leading up to Christmas. And it takes place on the same day that Uranus goes direct…..releasing its energy. So there is an unpredictable, but also pure, quality here; which will likely reinforce the Uranus/Pluto themes outlined above. For its part Pluto (in Capricorn) is in turn part of a grand trine with Mars (in Virgo) and Jupiter (in Taurus). This began to form in mid November and will be effective until mid December, when the faster moving Mars will move on. Earth themes are highlighted, as are practical and creative activities. As indicated in the “Month of Scorpio” this is an overall positive and stabilizing alignment, though as planets move into any aspect pattern a potential for dynamism always exits. And as Pluto is already in a 'strong' contact with Uranus the link with Mars and Jupiter MAY aggravate (Mars) and inflame/exaggerate (Jupiter) their already potent relationship.

So, those with placements (including the Sun, Moon, Ascendant, MC, nodes and the personal planets), in the early degrees of the Mutable signs, will be keyed by the eclipse and its square to Chiron. Those with placements in the early degrees of the Earth signs are now experiencing a transiting Grand Trine (between Pluto, Mars and Jupiter). Take advantage while it’s there! Those with placements in the late degrees of the Air signs are undergoing a process of reconditioning, brought about by the transit of Saturn and Neptune. And finally, those with placements in early degrees of the Cardinal signs are working under the cathartic energies of Uranus and Pluto. To be sure, everyone has something to work with!

For those who may have missed the previous “Month of Scorpio” I have reproduced it below.

Cheers

Bob

Month of Scorpio

23 October 2011 - 22 November 2011

HERE AND NOW.......

With the Sun transiting through Scorpio the next 30 days are likely to be intense, if nothing else! With Scorpio's co-ruler Pluto playing such a significant role (as noted above), big picture themes are likely to be focal. Our planet - and it's systems, institutions, organisations and citizens - are all being subjected to the heat of transformational energy! The full moon, in Taurus, on 11/11/11 (Sydney time) is significant on many levels and represents, certainly symbolically, a high point for the month. If we are acquainted with the potential intensification of energy at the full moon (and particularly one involving Taurus and Scorpio), then this alignment of astrological and numerological motifs will be a powerful reminder (and for some a powerful experience) of dynamic forces at work 'behind the scenes' at this important time. Much is suggestive of the working out of karma through the exposure of what has been hidden or suppressed, and a purging (i.e. a process of purification) in preparation for a new stage or phase.

On a lighter note there is also an exact conjunction of Mercury and Venus on 11/11/11. This combination connotes an ease, even an elegance, in communication (for those who are aligned with it), especially given the placement in the optimistic, fun loving and prone to exaggeration Sagittarius! This joining is also symbolic of the union of heart and mind; and at a more spiritual level represents the hermaphrodite (Hermes/ Mercury and Aphrodite/Venus), the sublime union of male and female in united expression. The 11 is itself a symbol of the '2', poised equally, and of the gateway into the mysteries, where the prescription for entry is this sacred 'union'. This overlap of astrology and numerology demonstrates a wonderful, probably highly significant, synchronicity; and reinforces the potency (and poetry) of this period!

And to reinforce that all is not fire and brimstone (though it is still there!) Mars, the co-ruler of Scorpio, begins to separate from it's opposition with Neptune......and on 12/11/11 transits into Virgo. Mars in late Leo opposite Neptune in late Aquarius is featured in the sky from around 20 October. This combination is often associated with drifting and a difficulty or listlessness in taking action. The 'dragging on' of the Euro crises springs to mind; what is needed or desirable is put off? Another meaning can be confusing actions and/or those based on withheld agendas, which at the time of writing is very well illustrated by the sudden and secretive shut down of the Qantas fleet.

As Mars moves into Virgo it forms a Grand Trine with Jupiter (in Taurus) and Pluto (in Capricorn). The Grand Trine is almost always associated with ease and flow, though as planets move into any aspect pattern a potential for dynamism always exits. And as Pluto is already in a 'strong' contact with Uranus the link with Mars and Jupiter MAY aggravate (Mars) and inflame/exaggerate (Jupiter) their already potent relationship. Earth themes would feature here. But overall this is a positive pattern and should serve to 'earth' the prevailing energies and bring a focus around physical and practical activities. Off the back of the full moon (the day before) opportunities to move on or conclude things are well supported by this configuration. Those with strong horoscope placements in the early degrees of the Earth signs will be particularly receptive to these themes.

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Author

Bob Hunter
I have been studying, teaching and consulting on astrology and related subjects for 25 years. In that time I have never stopped being amazed at its multi levels and its capacity to 'inform'. From something as seemingly familiar as the Sun sign to the most oblique esoteric concept, it reveals, in the most surprising of ways, a little more of itself - often when you least expect it.
I look forward to you joining me as we journey 'across the universe'
- November 2011
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