Category Archives: Astrology

Character & Calling (Part 3)

My winter reading: James Hillman’s classic The Soul’s Code – In Search of Character and Calling (Random House, New York, 1996).

Daimon often comes to us as we are children with an unexplained fascination or unusual ways of play. I was taken very early with writing short storeys about my friends in my imagined exploits we would solve mysteries like Nancy Drew and her chums. Later I went on to become a lawyer in international tax com of all things. But as retirement loomed, I started writing fiction again with all the enthusiasm I once had as a child. In this, I was lucky. Others are not.

The point Hillman makes is not to squeeze this enthusiasm out of children using the excuse that they need to be socialised in order to perform from an early age as their parents and teachers would want. Just give kids enough room to experiment and grow into that oak tree that their individual acorns had laid out for their lives and not surprisingly, to accomplish this they need to put down some very strong roots in order to support future growth into their potential. 

But as Hillman points out, allowing this is difficult for us in the West, because we cling so strongly to what calls the ascensionist model – in other words – up is good and down is bad. Yet this is not the way of Damon or soul. As the Zohar, the main Kabbalist book, makes clear, zimzum, or the self-emptying aspect of the God, known as Ain Soph, traverses downwards through the darkness in a series of ten concentric circles called Sephiroth, collectively known as The Tree of Life. 

Likewise, Plato and his Myth of Er emphasizes this downward assent. Having arrived from previous lives, all the souls mill about in a mythical world awaiting their new lot, or portion of fate. For example, the soul of a mighty warrior chooses the life of a lion whilst that of a young woman runner, choose a lot of an athlete. When each of the souls have chosen their new lives according to their lots, they are assigned a daimon and without looking back, descend to earth to enact their lot. 

It should come as no surprise that in keeping with the Myth of Er, Hellenistic astrologers devised clever ways to delineate one’s lot using his or her natal chart. Some of these techniques have come down to modern astrologers, notably, the Lot of Fortune (or the Moon) and the Lot of Spirit (or the Sun). The former pertains to the natural flow of events in our lives whilst the latter describes change that occurs because of our intention. So, for example, if the Lot of Fortune describes how much money we are likely to make, the Lot of Spirit describes how we will choose our vocation and answer our calling. 

Hillman reminds us that the decent down into earth for soul is painful and costly and riches and fame never seem to really compensate. He uses Judy Garland as a case to illustrate his point. Judy was born into a showbiz family and at age 2 1/2 years of old, she had her first successful performance singing Jingle Bells. The immediate rapport she garnered from her audience cemented her calling, which she herself said “was inherited”. As Hillman also reminds us, it was the superlatives that betrayed her. According to one and all, during the height of her success, Garland was the best of everything. Even Garland herself said “I’ve done everything to excess.”

Yet as Hillman also points out, Judy Garland may have grown up but she didn’t grow down, as is required for soul. Always, she held on to America’s most treasured drug – the myth of innocence – the psychology of denial. Hillman tells us Garland’s acorn belonged “over the rainbow” and it was little wonder that her real life of drugs and chronic loneliness ended on a toilet the night of 21-22 June, the apogee of the solar year, the brightest light and the shortest night. 

Looking briefly at Garland’s natal chart, we see that her Lot of Fortune is at 21 Capricorn 15, and is thus very strong. Not only is in angular (7th house) but its ruler, Saturn, is very strong (angular, exalted, and in rulership by triplicity and term). Saturn also benefits from the rays (by sign) of three of the four benefics (Sun, Moon, and Jupiter). It is however, out of sect (Saturn is a diurnal planet and is in the nocturnal part of this chart). This suggests that in the natural flow of events, such as making money, Garland would do very, very well – which of course, she did  – but with Saturn being out of sect, this success would also be out-of-balance tending toward harmful excess, which of course was the case. Her Lot of Spirit, at 0 Capricorn is likewise strong also being ruled by Saturn. 

Perhaps it is only when we look at her daimon, which because Cancer is rising is the Moon, that we can understand fully why her life took such a tragic course. At 29 Sagittarius, Garland’s Moon (or daimon) is in an anaretic degree. Planets in the anaretic degree are known as ‘destroying’ planets, often causing difficulties, crisis, overcompensation, and poor choices. Perhaps this is an example of what Hillman has already promised to discuss, a situation where daimon is not good but instead bad?

I wonder why it happens to some and not others – definitely worth investigating further, don’t you think?

(to be continued)

The Year Ahead

It’s the first day of the brand new year and many are turning their thoughts to what it might bring. Basically, two planetary players set the stage – Uranus and Saturn with a couple of guest appearances from Jupiter, which may provide a much-needed ‘get out of jail’ card as well as fanning the flames of authoritarian anarchy.

The star lore relating to the zodiac signs of Aquarius and Taurus put together pretty much tells the story:

Aquarius

According to the Greek astronomer, Aratus (270 BC), Fomalhaut is at the Pourer’s (Aquarius) feet where it forms part of the fixed cross of the four Royal Stars of Persia – the ‘watchers’ or guardians of the sky (angelic powers). Bernadette Brady (Brady’s Book of Fixed Stars) considers Fomalhaut to be rather like the legendary Persian warrior, Zal, who although seriously out of step with society (a white-haired man who’d been raised in a bird’s nest), managed (through his usually considerate behaviour) to win the heart of the beautiful princess, Redabeh. Even though the odds were against the couple, Zal persisted and, eventually, they were allowed to marry. A lovely story complete with high ideals and lofty visions. None-the-less, a serious clash with mainstream thought and authority (tradition) was needed to achieve their ideals (progress). Let’s not forget that Aquarius is ruled by two very opposing energies – (1) Saturn (authority) and (2) Uranus (rebellion) and both are in play together this year.

Taurus

The brightest star in Taurus, is Aldebaran, which ancient astrologers considered to be of the nature of Mars, the warrior. As such it is especially poignant in respect to military men who achieve great things whilst at the same time, making dangerous enemies. Brady gives the example of Niccolò Machiavelli, the 15th century statesman who wrote The Prince, the classic treatise on gaining and holding political power. Brady points out that Machiavelli’s initial rise to power and prestige was followed by a stark reversal of fortune marked by accusations of conspiracy and treason. History tells us that these accusations were false and that Machiavelli was an upright and honest citizen of highest integrity. Brady suggests this implies that sometime in his life, he had succumbed to temptation to behave with less that utmost integrity. Equally, however, I suggest that it could be that a more classic scenario was at the base – when one rises to power, he/she will make enemies if for no other reason than hubris, pride and jealousy.

Summary

It’s time to break down the barriers – do things radically different – and like it or not, that’s what will happen – expect militant clashes with authority, rebellion against the establishment, the absolute refusal to toe the party line and/or maintain the status quo. The ideals driving all this may sound lofty and at some level that may be the case. But don’t forget that not far behind will be a clash of egos – acts of hubris – and good old fashioned lust and greed – of a degree that could well make your head spin. And oh, by the way, if you find yourself presented with the perfect ‘get rich quick scheme’, do yourself a favour and turn away. Maintaining integrity is the key to getting through 2021 in one piece.

Somewhere, I have the biography of Niccolò Machiavelli. Sounds like it may be time to read it!

Flying too High

In January 2021, it’s all about Mars triggering some intense dynamics which will front-end some of the most potent astrological energy for the entire year. Pay attention here – these same themes repeat again and again – learn your lessons early and spare yourself some pain.

  • 4-6 January – Mars is in the final degrees of Aries – wrapping up his last hurrah in the sign that he rules – expect some finality to things that will have commenced in June 2020. Take this as a warning – if you’re spoiling to pick a fight, don’t do it – if you’re tempted to thrown caution to the wind and take a chance, don’t, again – the chances are it won’t go well and you’re more likely than not to be sorry.
  • 6 – 7 January  – Mars is making a difficult transition into Taurus – think about the bull in the china shop – if you can harness this energy in a practical and pleasant way for both yourself and others, then go ahead and give it a try. But be honest here! If you’re still spoiling for a fight – or your ambition is running at an all-time high, sit this one out until the energy is more settled. 
  • 8 January – Venus (planetary host for Mars in Taurus) moves into Capricorn and at least for Mars, this is good news. On its own, Mars is still far from settled (forming a square to Saturn and Jupiter and a conjunction with Uranus) – but Venus is now in a position to help Mars out. If you need to push a bit in order to get things done, then OK – do it now – but do it with diplomacy and style – remember that old proverb that you’ll catch more flies with honey than with vinegar – never has this been more true than now. 
  • 13 January – Mars squares Saturn in Aquarius – this is the moment that the pressure cooker could explode – tension that has been building from about the 6th of January will peak – if you really need to get things done – then do it with patience, hard work, and discipline. But if you’re frustrated and tempted to push too hard, don’t forget it can still all go wrong – turn down the heat rather than turning it up.
  • 17 January – Mars gets into aspect with Jupiter and Uranus – this is bright, expansive energy – but also rebellious. Think inspirational, enthusiastic revolution – the sky is the limit – break through old boundaries – do new and wonderful things – BUT BEWARE – unbridled enthusiasm here could quickly turn into hubris – the warning is don’t fly too high or you’ll be certain to be shot down – think the Icarus Syndrome! This is a potential problem for the entire year – you may not like the idea of a glass ceiling – but there is one – and if you crash through it, there will be fallout – probably coming sooner than later.
  • 20 January – First quarter Moon (a tense moment in every lunar cycle) that highlights the Mars/Uranus aspect – this could be the blood-bath that accompanies every revolution.  Defiance – rebellion – explosive militance are the bywords – Oh, dear, this could all go all terribly wrong and all too easily.
  • 23 January – Mars bridges both Jupiter/Uranus (through ‘translation of the light’) –  so now all three planetary energies are involved – OK, let’s take this one step at a time – usually Mars/Jupiter brings excellence to athletes and military people as well as to judges and lawyers –  but add Uranus to the mix and expect the unexpected – nothing will go to plan – the more defiant you are in the face of this, the greater the potential for serious damage. But if you can remain balanced and diplomatic in handling this energy (remember Venus), you stand to win – and because Venus (diplomacy) is in Capricorn, you could win big.
  • 28 January – the full moon in Leo reminds us that the more egoistic we are in playing the game, the more potential there is for longer-term damage. Again, think the Icarus Syndrome – you may figure you deserve success and recognition and quite possibility you’re right – but with energy like this a little humility goes a long way. You know you’re in trouble when you’re tempted ignore good counsel and go it alone – placing excessive confidence in your own prowess and judgement. 
  • 31 January –  the same themes continue to play out – it’s a dynamic month that will go out with a BIG BANG! Remember progress can be good and progress can be bad and if you fail to note the difference, you could be in trouble. Don’t try to fix it if it’s not broken and if it could use some work, don’t throw out the baby with the bath water! This could even suggest some natural ‘disasters’ – there’s a lot of different energies grinding away here and they are not terribly comfortable together. 

The 2nd American Civil War

For some years, astrologers including me have been predicting a very rough time for America, a rough time that might well result in the 2nd American Civil War.

At least I was met with disbelief at best and derision by many – well, sad to say it seems the writing is on the wall…

Check out a very, very recent article in the Washington Post, The Republican Party Now Has More in Common with the Southern Minority of 1860 – it makes for as much a scary read as one of my original posts on the subject.

There’s still time to change this.

Gateway to the Stars & the Winter Solstice

After dark this Winter Solstice (21 December 2020 at 10:03 GMT) take a walk outside and look up at the stars and think about how our whole solar system is on the move. In the time it takes you to read this post, the Sun, Earth, and all the other planets with which you are familiar (plus their moons) will have travelled 3600 km, or 2200 miles, through the Milky Way ever closer toward the Solar Apex.

The Solar Apex is a position sightly southwest of the bright, beautiful bright star, Vega, which once upon a time, around 12,000-10,000 BCE, was the pole star. Because Vega is found in the constellation of Lyra, the Harp of Orpheus, it cloaks everything associated with enchanting, other-worldly, charisma. Vega is linked with magic and divine spells and that Mozart, considered by many to be the greatest composer in history, was born with Vega rising is a fascinating testament to the spellbinding power of his beautiful music.

But perhaps the most fascinating of all is that like geographers use latitude and longitude to map out locations on earth, astronomers use similar measurements called Right Ascension and Declination to map locations in the skies. Although longitudes and latitudes are determined from the Earth’s equator and the 0 meridian at Greenwich, Right Ascension ‘begins’ at the crossing point of the Sun’s apparent path through the sky (the ecliptic) with the celestial equator, the point otherwise known as the Vernal Equinox (the first day of spring). 

It is beginning with this point that the 360 degrees of the Sun’s annual path are measured in terms of hours and minutes. The Solar Apex holds the position of about 18 hours of Right Ascension, which is the moment of the Winter Solstice, when the Sun enters the zodiac sign of Capricorn. 

This is this an important moment each and every year. For those of us in the Northern Hemisphere, it marks the time when the sun turns back toward us becoming increasingly stronger as the days grow increasingly longer. This year, this moment is even more monumental because Jupiter and Saturn come together by conjunction to start their historical shift into Aquarius. 

Least you think that this does not affect our everyday lives on earth, think again. When one of the slower moving planets such as Saturn, Uranus, Neptune, or Pluto crosses this point, even the stock or share markets react as Christeen Skinner reminds us in her excellent book, The Beginners Guide to the Financial Universe: An Introduction to the Role of the Sun, Moon, and Planets in Financial Markets. Both Saturn and Neptune crossed this point in 1987 and 1988 respectively, with Uranus following in 1989. As Skinner notes, you may wish to refresh yourself on the volatility demonstrated by the Dow Jones Index during those last years of the 1980’s. Least you are not yet convinced, when Pluto (slowest moving of all) crossed this point in 2008, we suffered a global financial crash. Skinner also predicts that when both Saturn and Neptune will be at the apparent right angle to the Solar Apex in 2026 (a highly unusual moment) , we might well expect a sharp decline in index values again over a period of a few months.

What might this all mean for our solar system to be sucked, as if by an enormous magnet, toward Vega, the former pole star, located in the constellation of Lyra the Harp of Orpheus? I don’t know about you, but I’m tempted to guess it might have something to do with ‘Judgement Day’ or a massive reevaluation and realignment. Certainly this is what happened with the financial markets. This is also because in 12,000-10,000 BCE, Vega was also known as Maat, the great Egyptian goddess who, after weighing souls on her scales of justice, moved them from one life to another and by the way, Vega will also be the pole star again in about 11,500 CE. Other-worldly charisma and engagement indeed. 

Happy Solstice!

Scandal, Subversion, and Break-down in Law and Order in store for the United States?

Mundane astrologers often construct ingress charts for each of the four annual calendar quarters in order to assess where a nation-state is headed for that quarter.

This chart is drawn for the Sun’s ingress into Capricorn on 21 December (Winter Solstice) in Washington, DC and should give a flavour for what to expect in the United States from then until March 2021, when at the Vernal Equinox, the Sun moves into Aries.

SUMMARY: From the winter solstice on 21st December 2020 until the Vernal Equinox on 20th March 2021, it is highly like that some subversion perpetrated on the American people will turn into a scandal of such magnitude that there will be significant change not only of America’s self-image, but also its image in the eyes of the rest of the world. Deception and confusion will be the order of the day and it is quite possible this will also manifest in break-down of law and order.  

DETAIL:

  1. Quite possibly the most important aspect of this chart is the conjunction of Neptune and the Moon in the 4th house. Not only is this tied closely with the IC (in this chart the cusp of the 4th house) but it also at the ‘bending’ (or square) to the nodal axis of 19 Gemini/Sagittarius 25. Typically, planets in such a position function as a ‘point of release’ in the sense that things ‘manifest in the outer world. 
  2. In mundane astrology, Neptune is associated with subversion, delusion, and disillusion especially regarding the nation’s self-image as well as the image that said nation presents to others. Neptune is also associated with scandals that result in deception and confusion. Because the Moon is associated with the common people, the population as a whole, this suggests that some kind of subversion will be perpetrated on the American people. 
  3. This theme is further suggested by Neptune/Moon being in the 4th house, which represents the concept of home and community.
  4. That the nodal axis sits in the 1st and 7th houses of this chart again suggests some change to the national image, or even the ‘American dream’ (1st house) that will come as the result of foreign relations (7th house). In other words, the suggestion is that the US national image will be effected by some sort of scandal or subversion of the common people and that this in turn will effect foreign relations. 
  5. That the north node (19 Gemini 25) is reasonably close to the US natal Mars (21 Gemini 22), further suggests that aggression of some sort will be involved. To see how this might work, we might look to Mars, which because Scorpio is rising, is the Solstice chart ruler. Not only is the Mars in this chart ‘fighting fit’ (being in Aries, the sign of it rules) but that Mars is exactly in square to Pluto, which equates to all things hidden and secretive in a society as well as violent phases of self-healing.
  6. Earlier in the month on 14 December 2020, there is a total eclipse of the Sun at 23 Sagittarius, which being opposite that natal American Mars (22 Gemini 22), would have been activated by that eclipse.
  7. Eclipses denote beginnings and endings and with this eclipse again tied to the 1st and 7th houses of the natal American chart, the themes of national self-image and foreign relations is highlighted.
  8. Even earlier, on 30 November 2020, there was a lunar eclipse at 8 Gemini 38 that ties exactly with the US natal Uranus at 8 Gemini 55. Uranus is linked to revolutions, innovation, and break down of order. It would seem that what started around the time of that lunar eclipse at the end of November will continue to grow out of proportion. 

Big Bang!

In December 2020, we can expect quite a lot of astrologically significant energy – it’s a difficult year going out with a ‘big bang’ – so to speak – and finally we are moving into a brand new space that will feel brighter and hopeful – be proud that you’ve had the moxie to keep the faith:

  • 1-6 December – Mercury enters Sagittarius where he is not happy (in detriment) and so during this entire period, we can expect Mercurial things like communications and connections to be out of kilter – this is not a Mercury retrograde – so don’t blame Mercury when your e-mails go astray – but as Mercury is in a difficult position (antiscia) vis a vis Pluto/Saturn/Jupiter in Capricorn, you might expect that your email won’t be read and understood quite as was planned. During this period, little things may be glossed over – initially – until we realise them for the big problem that they really are. Equally, people may be prone to make a big deal out of pretty much nothing – overzealously, things can get blown way out of proportion. Read the small print when signing contracts – this is not the best time to start legal proceedings either. The temptation will be to overwhelm people with throwing the complete ‘kitchen sink’ at them – the heats on – they may give up just to stay afloat, but BE CAREFUL – this is NOT easy stuff. Is someone not telling the whole truth?
  • 5 December – Venus trines Neptune – usually this can be a romantic energy – but Venus is in Scorpio and the ruler of Scorpio, Mars is moving into a square with Pluto. So hostility, coercion, manipulation, and underhanded games are very possible – people might be willing to do anything to win – BEWARE – it’s easy to get seduced here and not for the best – are the some things that are going on behind the scenes?
  • 9-13 December – Mars moves into square with Pluto and so the power games ramp up at the same time that Mercury moves into trine with Neptune – deception is a real possibility here – BE CAREFUL – there is a real temptation to try to ‘get away’ with things whilst at the same time convincing yourself that you’re doing everything completely above board. We may not have all the information to make decisions – don’t cut corners here – it’s not in your interest longer term.
  • 9 December – The Sun moves into square with Neptune – think of this as a new vision – an epiphany – a sense of healing and clarity – inspiration. And with Mercury also involved it, could be the passing of something that gives way to faith in what comes next and the ‘divine order’ of all things. The Sun shines through!
  • 14 December – the same theme continues – a solar eclipse in Sagittarius – this is big because shortlythereafter Saturn and Jupiter conjoin (this happens every 20 years) and cross into Aquarius – and this is a bigger deal than you might think. The Jupiter/Saturn cycle is a major marker in generational changes and with this move of the new cycle into an air sign (Aquarius), it is metaphorically a breath of fresh air.
  • 16 December – Celebrate – just as Jupiter/Saturn conjoin to move from Capricorn (earth) into Aquarius (air) setting up as noted above a whole new 20-year cycle and more (it’s a 200-year cycle of Jupiter/Saturn conjunctions in air signs), Venus shifts into Sagittarius – and the first thing that Venus meets (by antiscia) is Jupiter/Saturn just before they undergo their ‘rebirth’.
  • 17-21 December – This is a transition between eras on a grand scale and Venus will play an important role here too – women and feminist issues may get a huge boost. Saturn symbolises older men and generations – the golden age of power – mastery -gain – and Jupiter, all that is new. Now we can look forward to all our hard work starting to pay off – this will be more hard work – but we are enthusiastic – and inspired! All at the same time of the winter solstice – the longest night of the year – we’ve kept the faith through the darkness and now the days start to get longer. Even more interesting, immediately when Jupiter/Saturn move into Aquarius, they make contact with Uranus by square: this is all about breakthroughs – new records set – and new technologies getting fired up – is now the time for bitcoins to take off? Maybe! It will all play out during calendar 2021 and with Saturn keeping the enthusiasm on an even keel, we can expect some very marvellous things.
  • 23 December – Mars moves into another square with Pluto – a heroic display of strength and might – beware, don’t fall into the trap of playing fast and footloose – if you are ruthless, you’ll get your comeuppance sooner than later. Nonetheless, if you’ve been stuck and unable to get some project or area of your life moving, now is the time that the barriers will crack and fall apart. We’re getting ready for all the exciting things we can expect in January 2021 when Mars comes together with Uranus in Taurus – more on late later.
  • 29 – 30 December – the end of the year is likely to end up on an emotional high – with the Full Moon in Cancer – we can feel connected with our home and hearth and with Venus coming into square with Neptune, it could be dreamy and pleasant so enjoy this time for shortly, there’s a whole new set of challenges and opportunities.

What to Expect from the US Elections 2020?

SUMMARY:

Based on a horary done on 25 August 2020 at 11:36 PM Minneapolis, MN  we might well expect that Biden will win the popular vote but the electoral college may deliver a different result. Either way, the transits in play today suggest that there will be confusion – maybe even subterfuge – and it might all end up in the courts.

Expect some resolution around the 11th of November but the ‘new beginning’ for which we’re all waiting won’t be ushered in until the Winter Solstice 2020 (21st December @ 10:03 GMT).  

The individual natal charts of the two presidential contestants suggest pretty much the same. Trump is not in good shape – major transitions ahead – and not in a comfortable way. Biden is in much better shape re: winning this election but there are health concerns that could get in the way of his enjoyment of this win.

Analysis:

HORARY:

  • Trump is the sitting president so he is represented by the ruler of the 10th house – which because Aquarius is there, means Saturn.
  • Saturn is in sign of rulership so that’s good but retrograde (moving backwards) so not so good. Saturn is also in a cadent house (9th) – which is weak. 
  • Most importantly, Saturn makes no connection with the Moon in this chart, which represents the ‘people’ i.e. the voters.
  • Biden is represented by Mercury because Gemini (the sign ruled by Mercury) is on the 1st house cusp. The question was framed – will Biden win – so he takes that placement. 
  • Mercury is also in good shape – in rulership in Virgo and NOT retrograde – but driving forwards. This is good. Mercury is also in the 5th house, which is succedent, and although could be better placed, is in better condition than Saturn.
  • This goes with the polls.
  • The next aspect the Moon will make is to form an exact square to the Moon, which is the contact/connection with the voters for which we are looking. The popular vote goes to Biden.
  • This however doesn’t consider the electoral college – which we will take to be represented by the ruler of the 11th house (groups, legislature, local government).
  • Because Pisces is on the cusp of that house, Jupiter is symbolic of the Electoral College. Interestingly, the Moon (popular vote) makes a conjunction (by antiscia) with Jupiter (the Electoral College) so one interpretation may be that the common vote is now subsumed by the Electoral College (Jupiter) and Jupiter is in Capricorn which might suggest Trump wins via that pathway.
  • Jupiter is in fall in Capricorn and this doesn’t bode well for a clean win – keeping in mind that Jupiter is conjunction Pluto, often representing scandals and behind-the-scenes deals/game-playing, this muddies the electoral waters. 

Transits

  • Mercury (communication and connections) today stations and turns direct (in Libra – i.e. the legal system) whilst forming a Square with Saturn. This further suggests problems/blockages/delays with the outcome of the election – contest results in the courts is a real possibility. 
  • Peaceful transition is not likely because in the 9th– 12th  of November, Venus (ruler of Libra) opposes Mars (conflict) on the very day that Jupiter (legal system) forms an exact conjunction with Pluto (dirty deals). 
  • But then shortly after this, we ought to see some resolution = as these transits bringing it all to the head start to dissipate.
  • Finally with the Winter Solstice, Jupiter and Saturn form a conjunction in Aquarius and energy of 2020 will be finished and a new phase beginning on an ideological and philosophical level. 

NATAL CHARTS

  • TRUMP:
    • Transiting Jupiter/Pluto/Saturn are opposing his natal Saturn/Venus conjunction in this 12thhouse and this often is interpreted as divorce and similar legal issues – and because the 12thhouse is involved, we can also thing about prison. 
    • On the other hand, natal Saturn in Trump’s chart is well-protected  (i.e. enclosed by the beneficial planets, Venus and Jupiter). This could be why Trump seems to slip away from conflict – i.e. Teflon Charlie. 
    • But transiting Neptune will next year make a square aspect to Trumps nodal axis and his Sun and Moon (the ‘lights’. This suggests something of a karmic change – a crossroads – and not usually in a comfortable way – as well as a feeling of being ‘lost’ and ‘displacement’. A serious question of his purpose in the world.  In any event, next year will not be stable for Trump next year – and so even as he wins, he is likely to struggle – maybe with a Democrat ruled Senate?
    • Natal Progressions –  these are not usually as prominent as transits but they do suggest the individual’s state of mind and Trump has a progressed new Moon (in Virgo) in his 12th house – this theme of something new happening and in the 12th house ( prison or otherwise displaced and in limbo). Progressed Ascendant for Trump changes on the Winter Solstice 2020 (big day anyway as noted above) from Libra into Scorpio – and now the ruler of his progressed chart is Mars which in this progressed house is debilitated in Libra in the 12th house (again). Further, at the same time the progressed MC (midheaven) shifts from Cancer into Leo and progressed Saturn is right there too. This suggests the way in which Trump is in the world is difficult and challenged. 
  • BIDEN
    • A lunar eclipse in his natal 7th house on his natal Saturn on 30 November 2020 suggests the end of conflicts in divorce proceedings – in this case, expect separation and resolution of issues with opponents. The status of Saturn in his chart is huge and in his progressed chart, his Saturn turns direct. 
    • A solar eclipse in his natal 1st house on 14 December 2020 – this suggests a moment of personal empowerment – life path changes hugely – and this happens near his Lot of Victory (Arabic parts). 
    • Transiting Jupiter/Saturn enter Aquarius (new beginnings) on the Winter Solstice immediately form a square with Biden’s natal Moon in Taurus, which is an empowered Moon in the 6thhouse. This is favourable not least because his Part of Fortune is here. An exalted planet in the 6th house provides ability to overcome misfortunes. 
    • However, this could also suggest significant health problems for Biden coming up. Put that together with the eclipse in his 1st natal house – new beginnings yes, but at what cost?
    • Transiting Neptune is going over his IC (4th house in this chart) – traditionally this suggest moving to a new house – perhaps in the White House?
    • Transiting Saturn/Pluto/Jupiter – which is a heavy hitter and not so comfortable planetary grouping is making an opposition to Biden’s natal Jupiter, which is the chart ruler (Sagittarius rising). This could be another suggestion of ill-health. The good news is that his natal Jupiter is exalted in Cancer so suggests he might well ‘escape’ or overcome an ill-health issue. 
    • If health issues do arise prior to Biden’s inauguration (if he wins), this could represent a big-bang ending for calendar 2020. 
    • There are suggestions that should Biden win this election, he either would not run or win a 2024 election. There is a ‘winding down’ in his career/vocation. 
    • Progressions – Biden is also coming out of new progressed moon – in his 1st progressed house – and making conjunction with (exalted) progressed Venus in Pisces, the Moon in Pisces, and the progressed Part of Fortune as well as sextile exalted Mars (in Capricorn). This is good stuff and points toward victory. However, the progressed Ascendant in the chart coming conjunct to the progressed South Node again suggests health problems. 

The Last Hurrah

Let’s face it. Calendar year 2020 has been one hell of a year. We did warn you back in January that it would be remembered as a turning point in history. We also suggested that by the end of calendar 2020, we’d find resolution, a new way forward, and with November this will start in earnest.

  • 1 November: Mercury forms an exact square to Saturn. Something is stuck -we are going too rigid in our thinking. This energy provides a much-needed opportunity for seeing our situation differently, for adopting a new and more mature way of dealing with this. Beware; you’re unlikely to see the fruits of the process at hand until Mercury stations (appears to stand still in the sky) around the 8th of the month. The good news is that Libra is involved and Venus, the ruler of Libra, is in her maximum power. Thus there is every chance that whatever it is that seems stuck, will find an elegant, diplomatic solution.
  • 9 November: Venus (in Libra) opposes retrograde Mars in Aries. The showdown that we’ve been waiting for since mid-October is finally here and the themes in play may well be in sexual politics. Best that I can figure, politics is all about who holds the the upper hand. I figure since win-win situations are rare occurrences, there’s likely to be a winner and a loser here. It’s also likely that someone will be tempted not to play by the rules. The good news is that peace and diplomacy are likely to win, and in regarding sexual politics, that suggests it will be Ladies Day!
  • 12 November: Jupiter meets Pluto one last time. For the entire year, we’ve had might well be called a hand grenade of heavy-hitter planets (Jupiter/Saturn/Pluto) in Capricorn; little wonder we’ve suffered more of our fair share of civil unrest and what can only be described as shady politics not to mention the Covid-19 pandemic, which pretty much has put an end to life as we knew it. Finally, we can look forward to this coming to an end, a resolution. But the problem is that one more time things have to get worse before they can get better. This the last hurrah of Jupiter and Pluto in cohorts to provide maximum upheaval. Be brave: soon it will finally be over.
  • 14 November: The New Moon in Scorpio. This is coming just at the time that Jupiter leaves Pluto behind for good (or until next time in about 12 years). The battle that we’ve all been fighting for the whole of 2020 is reaching its peak crisis, after which things will start to resolve. Let’s not be naïve, however, and think that the BIG BANG we’re soon to experience won’t reverberate for a long time. But on a positive note, Mars, planet of encounter and engagement is finally turning direct today after two months of ineffective vacillation. Finally we can look forward to some forward-moving decisive action.
  • 15-19 November: Venus forms a square with Jupiter/Saturn/Pluto) in Capricorn. You might think of this as a karmic equalisation – judgement day has arrived and (more or less) good triumphs over evil. If you end up on the winning side count your blessings and do more of the same. But if you end up on the losing side, accept defeat gracefully and give serious consideration on why and how you went wrong.
  • 16-17 November:  Mercury is back in opposition to Uranus. This is the moment of epiphanies and resolutions – unexpected news and events – in essence we are being freed from something not good for us although it can still be painful.
  • 21 November: The Sun moves into Sagittarius. There’s light at the end of the tunnel The Winter Solstice will be with us in just a month and this year, it will be a doozy. In the meantime, this signals the start of eclipse season, which means ‘all change’. Astrologers view eclipses as a release of pent up energy that shakes us out of our everyday complacency so that we can get up and running again.
  • 26-27 November: Venus opposes Uranus. This one is of short duration but nonetheless chances are good that you’ll feel it as a dramatic and unexpected event and the most likely culprit is romantic relationships. More often than not, Uranian-inspired events work in our favour – so if we’re feeling restless and bored, this energy will be like a fresh, stiff, sea breeze. 
  • 30 November: Lunar eclipse in Gemini.  The (full) Moon passes directly behind the Earth into its shadow although it’s too far from earth for us to see it. However, every eclipse as a dramatic ‘wild card’ playing out someplace in our natal charts. Wherever this occurs, events will transpire in order to shake us out of our compliancy. With every eclipse something ends and something begins. But whilst solar eclipses tend to offer new opportunities, lunar eclipses like today tend to bring final endings.

If you’d like to find out more about the energies of November may effect you, check this out.

Challenge, Conflict, Courage, & Catharsis

Astrologically, October 2020 is going to be a hell of a month.

It started on 1 October with a BIG BANG – a full Moon in Aries – cementing a Martian (martial) theme for the entire period (because Mars is the planetary ruler of Aries). 

Unto itself, that’s challenging enough but Mars itself is very busy during the entire period. In many respects, this could be the grand finale (or dying swan song) for the whole of 2020, set from the very start to be a very turbulent year. 

  • 2 October: Venus moves from Leo into Virgo. Although in Leo she may have enjoyed herself playing the drama queen, , she was in detriment so not really good at doing when Venus is meant to do – i.e. fostering enjoyable, mutually fulfilling relationships. In Virgo she takes a step further down the ladder – because now she is in fall. The thing to keep in mind here is that when, as here, any planet changes dignity, we need to pay special attention. Venus will drop her flashy – ‘let’s have fun’ guise she had in Leo and get rational and picky and yes, very serious indeed. Important issues impacting women (i.e. marketplace equality, childbearing, et al) come to the forefront. Expect HOT (Mars is in his home sign of Aries) and INCISIVE debate (Mercury, ruler of Virgo is in Mar’s other home sign of Scorpio) on all matters relating to women.
  • 7 October – Mercury (in Scorpio) makes an opposition to Uranus – this is big and dynamic – and as is always the case where Uranus is involved, expect the unexpected. Uranus acts as a like a bolt of lightning; that which was hidden (in the depths of Scorpio’s murky waters) is illuminated. For the first time in perhaps a long time, we see the lay of the land for what it really is. Because Mars, natural ruler of Scorpio, is centre stage this month (see earlier) and moving through a challenging square aspect with Jupiter/Pluto/Saturn, what we see is not likely to be pretty. Indeed, it is likely to be explosive! Beware. You do have a choice on how to react to what you learn during this period even if it feels otherwise. If you want to start a fight, now is the time to do it but don’t expect to automatically win. By contrast, do pay attention to hunches that you have during this time. Chances are they are spot on.
  • 9 October – if that wasn’t enough, now we have a real moment of breakthrough – catharsis – Pluto and Mars come to perfect that square. During this period, you’ll be reminded that making necessary changes (based on new information that is now coming to light) takes courage. You may have to dig deep for inner strength to get through hard times. But again, if you choose to react angrily and with aggression to changes thrust upon you, you might find yourself in more than a spot of trouble.
  • 11 October – Jupiter (in fall in Capricorn – so definitely not the finest hour for leaders and authority figures) makes an enabling sextile to Neptune. If you choose, you now have an opportunity to renew your faith in the future! For many, it’s been one long year of the dark night of the soul. Take heart. The energy is starting to change but at the same time you’re being tested again (i.e. can you really believe anything???). So walk into this period with your head held high and with your eyes wide open and you may be pleasantly surprised with the results. On the other hand, if you choose to believe what you want to believe rather than really reading the ‘writing on the fall’, you’ll lose out. YOUR CHOICE!
  • 13 October – The Sun in Libra forms an in opposition to Mars in Aries. You may be on the side of negotiation and compromise, but sadly, that’s not how it’s likely to turn out. Sometimes people don’t play fair (think Machiavellian power plays here) and they still win. That is more than likely to happen now so the only question that matters is how you choose to react. BTW, to help you with this, know that by the end of this month, the tide will have turned and Mars (fight) will lose out to Venus (diplomacy). If you can find a way to keep your balance now, things have a much better chance to work out for the best.
  • 14 October – Mercury turns retrograde in Scorpio – time to rake over all the (still smouldering) coals that burned bright earlier in the month. This means that you’re getting a second chance at dealing with the ‘unexpected’ information that came to light around the 7th of October. Between then and 19 October (when Mercury again opposes Uranus), you have the opportunity to set things right. This is the turning point. Use this energy to wisely and to advantage. Nothing remains the same for long.
  • 16 October – if the first half of the month has been marked by uncomfortable challenge and conflict, with the new Moon (in Libra) today we will soon be finding some relief. Venus, the ruler of this Moon is still in Virgo, so she still is being critical and picky, but from now on in she’ll be gaining – rather than losing- ground – over argumentative Mars.
  • 18 October – today Mars suffers the first of his setbacks – when, still retrograde, he forms a square with Jupiter. Mars may not have paid too much heed to the ‘rule of law’ previously, but now he’s being called to task for it – and although the result may be dramatic and action-packed, Mars will no longer get away with ‘murder’. No longer keeping it out of the public eye. Just don’t get sucked into any deliberate dramas meant to keep your focus elsewhere. Unfortunately, with Venus opposing Neptune also during this time, the temptation may be to turn a blind eye. If you do, then you’re bound to have it thrown back in your face at a later date and that date is coming up rather sooner than later.
  • 19 October – Mercury perfects his second opposition to Uranus and the ‘truth’ will out. If you’ve been like the ostrich hiding his/her head in the sand, this could get uncomfortable. Again, if you want a fight, you’ll get it during this time but again, don’t be surprised if you don’t win. We’re heading into a cooling off period through the end of the month – so if at all possible, put your hostilities on hold for just a bit longer.
  • 28 October – Venus moves from Virgo into Libra, where she becomes dignified and diplomatic. Now is the time for truth to ‘trump’ lies and justice to win the day. At least for a little while, might is no longer right and feathers ruffled by weeks of drama will finally become smoothed.