Whitney Houston, Big Voices, and Some Simple Antiscia

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The power of antiscia can be seen in a natal chart very simply and strikingly sometimes. I've been finding a particular antiscia signature with some frequency in the charts of musicians, and singers specifically: Mercury antiscia to Jupiter. A big or great voice. 

Here, on the 360 degree dial, is the natal chart for the late, and very vocally talented, Whitney Houston.

(Note: The 360 degree dial does not change the placement of planets in a chart, or their relation to each other or to the angles, but instead emphasizes their connection to the cardinal axis (the solstice and equinox points falling at 0 CANCER/CAPRICORN and 0 ARIES/LIBRA). The dial makes for a quick and easy way to see antiscia and contra-antiscia (terms used for planets falling evenly around the cardinal points). Since everything on earth is dependent upon and affected by seasonal changes, the cardinal axis is a point we all share and is therefore important and relevant for everyone. It is a point through which we connect to the world.)

In Whitney Houston's chart Mercury sits at 10'15 VIRGO and that is the exact mirror or shadow point (antiscia) to Jupiter placed at 19'29 ARIES. 

We also find here the antiscia of Jupiter to Pluto, which ought to add even greater power and influence. At its best Jupiter|Pluto is regenerative, providing an ability to transform and develop something, to build something up and make it better; at its worst it can lead to excess, or great accumulation and wastefulness.  

A third powerful signature we find in her chart by contra-antiscia (planets falling symmetrically around the Aries/Libra axis, or equinoc­tial points) is Sun to Neptune. This illuminates her mystique and appeal, but is likely also indicative of the trouble and addictive situations she faced. 

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To reiterate this theme of great voices, and the antiscia of Mercury|Jupiter on the cardinal axis, here are the charts for two other phenomenal vocalists, Sinead O'Connor and Gillian Welch. 

Both charts have Mercury contra-antiscia to Jupiter. Also, Jupiter is in a superior position (earlier in zodiacal degree) to Mercury and, in these two charts, is connected by a sign-based square. 

In Sinead O'Connor's chart Mercury is located at about 26 SCORPIO while Jupiter sits at 04 LEO.

In Gillian Welch's chart Mercury is 03 SCO and Jupiter is 27 LEO. These places are regarded by some ancient astrologers as the "hearing" or "commanding/obeying" signs. Read more about this on SevenStars blog. 

A nice thing about antiscia, and midpoints generally, is that you can examine a chart that does not have a birth time and still gather quite a bit of information about a person or situation (as revealed with the two charts above). Though remember to disregard the angles of the chart, and also do not put much emphasis on the Moon due to its speed. 

I do of course advocate using charts with good birth data. Nothing can replace the depth and structure and sound foundational story one finds through examining a chart in its traditional form, like the one below.


* If you are confused by the chart above not having house cusps, please understand that I use and encourage everyone to try whole sign houses. I still use the angles and see them as incredibly strong points in the chart, especially when planets are advancing toward them or are retreating, having just passed them by, but I prefer whole sign houses for topical purposes. A whole sign house system is elegant, simple, powerful, and makes the most sense to me theoretically. 

 

dark, haunting beauty

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Being artistically-oriented myself, I quite enjoy looking at the charts of artists and musicians. Lately, I've been looking especially at the 360 and 90 degree dials with the TNPs (Transneptunians). I'm looking for recurring themes, threads to follow, something from which I can build my own experiential resource base for how these symbols (specifically the TNPs) speak to me. 

The work of Francesca Woodman is one of my latest obsessions. 

These photos were made by Francesca, a fiercely evocative photographer who died by suicide at a very young age (twenty two). Her work is rich in symbolism, and a theme of impermanence, or breakdown and decay, is portrayed quite literally through all of the imagery.

While I do not have an exact time for her birthchart, it is still valuable to examine the aspects and planetary placements, and by using the dial I can gather even more clues as to what themes are most prominent.  

Placements I note first are Francesca's exalted Sun in Aries in opposition to a bright (full) Moon in, the Venus ruled sign, Libra - will versus feeling; Mercury's opposition to Jupiter, North Node, and Neptune - anabudance of creative ideas; Venus' opposition to Pluto - magnetism, and intensity in relating; And Mars' wide opposition to Uranus - unique, individualistic, sometimes rebellious expression.

This is a large number of oppositions to have in a chart, and it is noteworthy that all of the inner planets are being influenced by the outer transpersonal planets. Oppositions speak to the pull between what is inside vs. what is outside, yours or mine, yin/yang, even black and white (like her photographs). 


Standing on the Cardinal axis, we find Mercury in antiscia to Pluto and Venus antiscion Node/Neptune.

The Node is her only personal point on the axis, and is how she is tied to and connects with the world. This combination can also be viewed as a completed planetary picture:
Mercury + Pluto - Venus = Node/Neptune  or  Me + Pl - Ve = No/Ne.

Reinhold Ebertin says of Mercury Pluto: the art of persuasion, suggestion. This speaks to her ability to powerfully communicate something to the world, but not totally literally. It is the element of suggestion that pervades her work. Pluto, also associated with the Underworld, can bring a darkness to what is [in this case] communicated. And it is known for great growth and development, or great decline. Venus Node is a love-union or pleasant connections with others, and Venus Neptune is creative imagination and can contribute to much idealism or disillusionment in love. Because Ve|No|Ne is on the same axis as Me|Pl they are all rather intensely connected, and being on the cardinal axis (the world's stage) it is for all to see.

Communicating beauty (and the female form) powerfully, and most often with an aspect of disillusionment, darkness, destruction and decay, was certainly her modus operandi.

 Self portrait

With the chart on the 90 degree dial (below), we see Neptune also stands on the Cardinal axis at 11.25 (black dot is indicator).

Among other things, Neptune = Photography.  



When we add the TNPs, things only get more interesting....

Sun Poseidon signifies her use of light (as in photographic images). It is pure energy and spirit, but can also be associated with spirits, as in ghosts. On this midpoint axis also lies Venus Pluto, indicative again of her immense creative power; and Ve|Pl pushes through Sun Poseidon its darker, more annihilative quality. Adding to this force is Mercury Vulcanus also standing on the axis. Many of her images have blurry or moving figures. This is literally what Me + Vu = Su means: a body in motion.

Zeus and Kronos also figure prominently, standing near Pluto. Zeus and Kronos, especially with Pluto and Venus, signify enormous creative inspiration, mastery, and an eagerness to work. Think how young she was when she began working and how many incredibly beautiful images she created in such a short amount of time.

One final important TNP to note on this Sun axis is Hades. Standing at precisely 22.5 from her Sun (see the large black dot), Hades reiterates many of the themes already noted, and additionally signifies old and outworn things, garbage, death, decay, filth, secrets or hidden things, want, and loneliness. Are her images not utterly representative of Hades Poseidon? 

After writing this article, I came across a review and thought it described eloquently the symbols as I saw them. The New York Review of Books writer, Eizabeth Gumport, said of Francesca's work:

Her concealed figures, however, call to mind corpses, or ghosts, as if the wall between our world and the spirit realm had begun to fall. In her images, dust abounds, and there are no new buildings, only ruins, whose disintegrating forms evoke the wrecks admired by the eighteenth- and nineteenth-century Gothic revivalists often cited as major influences. The out-of-focus figures are faint and friable-seeming, and Woodman’s gray tones as powdery as crumbling stone.

While there is so much more we could learn from this sadly poetic chart, I want to move on to the date of her death: Jan 19, 1981. 


There are many things one can examine in timing and event charts. Here, I look primarily to just one large factor, a theme repeated again and again, because it speaks so loudly: Hades. 

Because Francesca was 22 years old at the time of her death, her Solar Arc would be close to that degree; it was 22 19' 19" to be exact. That would mean any of the natal indicators in her chart standing at that distance to another factor would be coming to fruition - including Hades to her Sun.

You can see in the chart above that not only was Hades due to her Sun by Solar Arc (the green and red bars), but it was also transiting her Sun by exact half square (or semi square). This is something we find because Hades' orbit is about 360 years. It was a Hades time more than ever in her life. Clearly something needed to die and be let go of. It is sad she took her own life and wasn't able to force in entirety the expression in a worldly endeavor. 

Neptune also was due on the Cardinal axis at that time (not visible in chart above). Likely this reiterated a feeling of helplessness, disappointment, and assumably disillusionment and despair or desperation.

But her ethereal, almost supernatural, Neptunian work does live on in the world. Certainly she continues to touch and deeply affect many people with her profound talent --> Communicating depth and beauty and darkness and light - and the transient nature of life. 

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personal points on the cardinal axis : Abe Lincoln

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Abe 

I will use President Abraham Lincoln as an example to illuminate the power of Personal Points on the cardinal axis. But first a quick description of the personal points and the cardinal axis.

In Uranian Astrology (aka Symmetrical Astrology) personal points are a big deal. The six personal points are the Sun, Moon, the moon's Node[s], Midheaven (MC), Ascendant (AS), and Aries Point (meaning, zero degrees of any cardinal sign: Aries, Cancer, Libra, Capricorn).  

Through the personal points we connect to things. Through the Sun we connect via our will, purpose, body. Through the Moon we connect through our feelings, emotions, and perception. The Ascendant connects us to our locale, our immediate environment, and the people in our environment. Through the MC we find our sense of "I" or "My," our soul connectedness; it is the place within, and a place we see the world from; and in a way I like to think of the MC as connecting us to spirit. The Nodes are all about connections or unions by themselves, showing us how and with whom we'll connect. And finally the Aries Point, which is both the cardinal axis and the intersection of two great circles (Ecliptic and Equator), is the way in which everyone and everything connects in and to the world. The Aries Point is the personal point we all share.

My teacher Gary Christen would say a person who has personal points on the cardinal axis will be very visible and known in the world. Though having personal points connected to the axis is not a requirement of visibility, you do find it shows up frequently, and is always descriptive of the way one connects to the world. In a minute you will see that President Lincoln serves as a great example of this.

What does it mean (technically) to have personal points on the cardinal axis? When we say a person has points on the axis we're not limiting this to their having planets or angles at precisely 0 degrees of the cardinal signs (or 29 mutable), though that works too. We're interested in whether they have personal points engaged and reflected around the axis as well. This is called antiscia: when points fall on either side of a 0 degree cardinal point in perfect symmetry. 

Note: Zero degrees Cancer/Capricorn are Solstice Points - zero Aries/Libra = [Equinox] Equinoctial points

And Antiscia, sometimes referred to as Solstice Points, have been used for a very long time. Hellenistic authors refer to them not infrequently. 


As an example, in the chart for today, we see that Mars resides at less than 1 degree Cancer. This means that Mars sits directly on the cardinal axis. 

 

 

 

And in another recent example, the chart for the Summer Solstice, June 21, 2011, we can see several points are in antiscia to one another on the cardinal axis.

 


Here we find Node Pluto in anitscia, and also Jupiter Ascendant (Note: AS is only relevant in the immediate locale - here in Seattle. Lucky us.) Node Pluto would be indicative of transformative and powerful connections, changing connections, possibly concealed or subversive connections, and likely some big developments and/or power struggles. 
 


Back to Abe. 

Let's first look at his chart on the classic pie wheel.

If the birth time we have for Lincoln is correct, we notice right away the powerfully angular Sun in Aquarius rising, and the Moon above the ascendant in Capricorn in the twelfth house. I find Saturn at the top of the chart (with Neptune) a very interesting feature, as it resides in the famous Gauquelin sector. Isn't Saturn so very appropriate for Lincoln? From his stature, to issues with melancholy, his reflective nature, social commitment, and responsibilities... And both the Sun and Moon of course disposit to that Saturn. I find it also quite fascinating that all five of the innermost planets, Sun through Mars, are in detriment (opposite the signs they rule). Just one planet, Jupiter, is in its own domicile (Pisces). 

Now let's look at the chart on the 360 degree dial. 

Look at those personal points! 

At first glance we see 4 of the 5 personal points sitting in reflection on the axis. The Sun lies antiscia to the Node, general connections in the public, to reach out and make contact, meetings with others. The Moon is antiscia to Saturn, connecting with laboring and suppressed people, work with the public (Moon), a public administrator; also feeling inhibited, somber, or lonely; and since it is the Moon this can also describe the woman he relates to (think of his wife and some of her difficulties). And- Ascendant to Node, connections with many in one's environment, many acquaintances, even a kind of 'group identity.'

We can also see that he has a powerful Venus Jupiter contra-antiscia. Lincoln literally saved the Union. 

Upon even closer examination- if you see where the tiny black dot is by the MC, the fifth and final point, the Midheaven, is actually pulled onto the axis at 22.5 degrees. 

This is easier to see on the 90 degree wheel:

If this birth time is indeed accurate, both the Ascendant and Midheaven stand on the axis, meaning President Lincoln has every single personal point on the cardinal axis.

We can most definitely say he is a man known in the world.

In concluding this post, I find it somewhat interesting that his Node is due to his Sun by solar arc . . .

Is he connecting with the world again?   ;-) 


The chart (the moment) (the person) (the connection) lives on . . .

Be well. 

eclipse : new Saros Series : on the 90 w TNPs

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Today, July 1, marks the very first eclipse of a new Saros Series. The series contains 72 eclipses in total with the final one occurring in 3237. This new moon/solar partial eclipse lands at 9 degrees 12 minutes of Cancer. The sabian symbol for this degree, 10 Cancer, is  A large diamond not completely cut. (Keyword: Latency.) If the eclipse falls in a prominent place in your own chart, i.e. conjunct or in dynamic aspect to one of your planets or angles, this might have pronounced meaning for you at this time.  

This birth of a new cycle is also meaningful for the collective.  

When we look at the eclipse chart on the 360 and 90 degree dials, some very important details pop out:

First we see that the only planet directly on the cardinal axis is the TNP (transNeptunian) Hades. You can find more information on Hades in previous articles, but in essence Hades relates to service, things from the past, that which is dirty or worn out, difficulty and hardship, and things hidden like the occult.

Moving to the 90 dial, we see more come to light as we turn the dial to 22.5:

Here we find Poseidon connected to Pluto + Kronos, with Mars close by. Poseidon rules light; it has to do with high-mindedness, understanding, philosophy and culture. It is like a higher octave of the planet Neptune, and so relates to spirit and enlightenment. The combination of Pluto and Kronos speaks to great change and/or development. All energies playing together should indicate some potential for highly transformative and spiritual development in the culture.  


 

Another immensely important combination occurring at this eclipse is Pluto/Kronos falling at the precise midpoint of Mars and Jupiter.

If Mars Jupiter typically indicates successful action and Pluto is the result, it seems to speak of an enormously rich time for (or beginning of?) big changes and transformations occurring because of or through fortunate decisions or activities. With Kronos, it's knocked up a notch or, in a more mundane sense, makes reference to leaders or people in authority. 

 

 

Venus also falls on an important axis:

Venus lies at the midpoint of three planetary configurations! In order, by tightness of orb, they are: Hades Node, Cupido Uranus, and Vulcanus Admetos. This could speak to some less than comfy circumstances as Hades Node can indicate unpleasant affairs or associations. However, if we consider the higher side of Hades -- service, tradition, or things from the past, it might be indicating more social interest in these matters. Certainly with the other combinations to Venus it could speak to continued difficulty for people and communities, but with the aforementioned potential for big time transformation it may just be showing the way to that transformation and why. Meaning: the culture is in trouble and sudden or drastic measures might need to be taken to deal with great obstacles, violence, or loss.  

I think because there is a strong Poseidon and Plutonian influence in this chart, what we will come to face as a culture, or as many cultures around the globe, we can work through.  To me, this illuminates the hindrances and limitations at hand and that more may arise, but that we can transcend, go beyond, grow from and out of a very difficult time. 

One final midpoint to mention is Jupiter on the axis of Sun Neptune and Moon Neptune -- and in the US chart, Saturn MC. 

To me, this indicates optimism in the face of difficult circumstances and the unknown. Modesty and simplicity ought to be welcome and encouraged at this time. And what we don't know can help us, so keep an open mind. Imagine futures full of possibility, and work on keeping a compassionate outlook. 

Please feel free to leave a comment or ask a question, or offer your perspective!

Royal Wedding = Cupido

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Not every day do we witness such an archetypally important and highly visible event. Friday (Venus day) April 29 2011, was one of those special days. With the wedding of Prince William to Kate Middleton, much is being said by all -- and especially pondered and scrutinized by astrologers.

The first thing that stands out is Venus placed at the top of the chart or MC (Midheaven)! Venus symbolizes love, beauty, creativity, relationships and happiness, and placed at the MC makes her most visible. From this position, Venus also makes a superior trine to the Ascendant -- a most auspicious statement. Also note, Mercury is at the top of the chart and advancing (moving toward) the MC in the Ninth whole sign house (the house of religious and mystical matters, and the king). With Mercury highly prominent and visible, matters pertaining to communication, news, public opinion, and vows are pronounced. The midpoint of Mercury and Venus is in fact the MC. VE+ME = MC : beautiful appearances and sounds in public, thoughts and words of love, and a time (MC = moment or minute) of beauty, grace, merriment, artistry and music. Remember the bells?

The ascending sign Leo, another symbol of royalty, is ruled by a prominent Sun placed in the Tenth whole sign house. The Sun, ruler of the Ascendant, is therefore aspecting the ASC by a superior square, a powerful statement from a very public position. The Sun is not configured to either malefic by aspect, also a good omen. Though the rulers of the 1st and 7th (partnership) are not connected, the ruler of the 7th (Saturn) is well-placed both by sign (exaltation) and angular, on the IC, though in the 3rd whole sign house. This seems to be the best of both worlds - neither malefics are angular but the one that matters most, Saturn, ruling the marriage, is strongly placed at the IC. 

An element of this wedding chart that makes many astrologers uneasy is a dark, waning moon (the new moon occurs on Monday, May 2). A waxing moon (a moon growing in light) is usually considered more desirable for the day of a wedding, as marriage is something we want to see grow and last and develop over time, and the building of light is considered a fruitful thing. One has to wonder what this dark moon will ultimately represent, could be the denial of fruits from the marriage, i.e. the couple will not have children. With the light obscured too, we may wonder if it will keep them out of the spotlight, a relationship more hidden or behind the scenes. 

The moon is considered by many modern western astrologers to be Void-of-course. This means it has finished making aspects to other planets while it remains in the sign of Pisces, before it enters the next sign, Aries. A Void moon is thought to mean that a project, contract or decision initiated at this time is doomed to failure. However, the modern notion of a Void moon only seems applicable in Horary astrology. Traditionally, the moon is only Void when it does not make an aspect to any visible planets within 30 degrees! Also, William Lilly, a notable medieval astrologer, said the moon cannot be Void in the signs: Taurus or Cancer (it's exaltation and domicile), or Sagittarius and Pisces (signs of Jupiter). In this case, the moon is not only nullified from being Void by being placed in Pisces, but it is also applying to the conjunction of Venus, which will perfect at 11 degrees 32 minutes of Aries -- a sweet applying aspect from the moon indeed! 

Let's examine this chart on the 90 degree dial, with the TNPs (TransNeptunians).  

The first thing that pops out is Venus and Cupido sitting antiscia to one another on the cardinal axis (aka the world's stage). This is indicative of a harmonious marriage in its most simplistic, obvious expression. Venus/Cupido also represents artistic and musical associations, peaceful societies, and happiness among groups of people or in the family. 

Because Cupido rules marriage let's examine its placement further... 

The first thing we see is that Cupido sits directly across from the AS (Ascendant). Technically speaking, it is in precise sesquiquadrate from the AS at 0 deg 00 sec. A sesquiquadrate or half-square is indicative of things that happen out there, outside ourselves, or in our environment. The AS symbolizes location or surroundings and is what is on the horizon or rising at that exact moment. In terms of timing, the AS (and also the MC) is like the minute or secondhand of a clock. And if we consider it like we would in a nativity (a person's birth chart), it is the mask or persona, or the face, of this relationship as captured in this specific moment in time. 

The closest completed planetary picture, which is a perfectly aligned symmetrical arrangement of planets and angles incredibly difficult to see with an unaided eye, is MC + Cupido - AS = MC. This means MC (the moment, soul, awareness) + Cupido (family, societies, associations, marriage, artistry) - AS (the place, relating to others in the surroundings) = MC (the moment, soul, awareness). And this occurs at 0 deg 0 min 01 sec. Now that is quite expressive of the time, isn't it?  

Very interesting to note, the next twenty completed planetary pictures all include Cupido -- which to me is pretty astonishing!

The second picture is with the Moon -- symbolizing the female, the public; add Cupido/AS and you get a woman proceeding to marriage. The next is with Mercury, symbolizing conversation, news, music, or vows. Then follows the Node -- symbolizing connections, sometimes karmic or fated; with Cupido/AS, a family coming together for a marriage. Next is with Venus -- the female again, the bride. Then with the Sun, and then Mars -- both symbolizing the man, the father, the bridegroom. The Sun with Cupido/AS adds community and the day, and Mars brings in the action -- connections leading to marriage. The list goes on... 

... So, per Uranian methods, utilizing some TNPs, this is a clear statement of a beautiful wedding day. Will the marriage be successful is another story. Consider the darkness of the Moon, and that by modern standards it is Void; and that the ruler of the First and Seventh houses are not connected (though they do share the same planetary lord: Venus). Either way it was a profoundly beautiful day -- and was captured in the exact midpoints and planetary pictures of the day. 

midpoints 101

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The midpoint between two planets can be an intense spot; especially when another planet (or planets) or other sensitive point, like an angle, is located there. This is relevant in both personal and mundane "world event" astrology. A point like this, with two or more planets situated around it, tells us a story. And in every midpoint story, like all things in a chart, there is the potential for a higher or lower expression. If the planets involved are known to be notoriously more challenging, for example a combination involving Saturn and Pluto, then it is up to us to direct that energy into an expression that we are satisfied with. Just as there really are no good or bad planets, there are not simply good or bad midpoints. Again, we could take as an example a midpoint that at first glance is typically considered to be quite pleasant say between Sun and Jupiter or Sun and Venus, symbolizing joy and enthusiasm, harmony and cooperation, and understand that it could devolve into arrogance, over-indulgence or superficiality quite easily without our attention or care. 

Let's look at a combination in the sky right now: 


(NOTE:  the dial above moves the signs with the pointer - this means the planets are not in the signs as you see them, but are actually posited in signs around the Aries Point - the Sun is at 0 Taurus, Neptune 0 Pisces, and most other planets fall in Pisces and Aries.)

See the arrow pointed to the Aries Point (the "world's stage"), there you also find Venus and Uranus. Wrapped around Venus|Uranus, at equal openings, are the Sun on one side and Neptune on the other. What we see here is a symmetrical arrangement of Venus and Uranus at the midpoint of the Sun and Neptune, or Sun|Neptune = Venus|Uranus = Aries. 

This combination will be in effect through the weekend and will continue to be very strong through Tuesday, April 26, 2011.

Keywords we could use to describe Sun|Neptune are: 

Vitality or expression (Sun) is affected or altered by psychic or imaginative influences (Neptune). Heightened sensitivity, receptiveness and impressionability; or potential weakness due to Neptune's dissolving quality. People's motivations become more idealistic or there could be an unrealistic, nebulous quality to them. Visions, mysticism and dreams influence individual or collective perception; or escaping reality through daydreams becomes more rampant. It is time to cultivate a more soulful inner life -- or else be prone to greater self-deception and disappointment. 

Keywords for Venus|Uranus include: 

Eccentricity or breakthroughs (Uranus) made in artistic expression or relationships (Venus). An interesting rhythm. Nervousness around, or quick decisions made with regard to, others. The love of unusual things or people. The love of astrology, science and technology. Innovative or inconstant and disruptive expressions of talents and/or love. 

When we combine and consider these midpoints together, having an effect on the collective (via the Aries Point), we come up with a number of interesting scenarios that could play out in several different ways. It is important to note that its effect will be felt by all; however those who have personal points interacting with the planets mentioned, or in early degrees of the cardinal signs (or in antiscia on the cardinal axis), will feel it more acutely. 

In considering the keywords offered, how might we imagine the expression of Sun|Neptune = Venus|Uranus = Aries ? 

"Dreaming of living in beauty, wealth, comfort, and luxury... delights in mental escape from life. Visualization and dreaming about astrology... indifference toward life or others while you inwardly escape." --Michael Munkasey

"Reserve in love... disappointments, aberrations in love. Sudden upsets or excitements... inner or emotional crisis, mourning." --Reinhold Ebertin

The time is ripe for artistic innovation and invention particularly via visualizations, in meditation, or upon waking. Pay close attention to your dreams, especially if you work in a creative field. Remain open to inspiration, but don't lose yourself entirely in fantasy. Use discernment while you collect and harness that which comes in. And know that everyone is feeling more sensitive at this time, so try to be more compassionate versus reacting quickly or disruptively to a difficult or confusing situation. 

Use the time to explore new ideas, new mediums, or concepts if you're an artist, musician or writer. Or focus the energies into visualizing the relationships you want in your life, whether new or old, it is a good time to explore new territory, break new ground, make changes...  Just don't jump ship looking for a lost dream.

The Ugly Truth? March 19 Full Moon

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The Full Moon occuring on March 19 is being called a super moon because it is particularly close to the earth. The exact time of the Full Moon is 11:10AM PDT (2:10PM EDT). Occurring in the tropical and sidereal signs of Pisces and Virgo, this lunation emphasizes concepts of sacrifice and/or service. The Sun and Moon sit tropically at 28 degrees 47 minutes (chart below).

Interesting to note the Heliacal Rising star for the day is Deneb Algedi, located in the sea goat's tail in the constellation of Capricornus. Deneb Algedi, the "ancient law giver," is a justice-oriented star and, according to Bernadette Brady, is symbolic of an "ancient god who was seeking to bring civilization to his people." It promotes benefic rulers. And when it's rising she says it relates to the seeking of "legal, physical or metaphysical laws that govern the world," and of "knowledge or solutions... endeavoring to help others in one's community." I think the reference to serving our community is quite interesting here, as is the mention of physical or metaphysical laws (or limits) governing the world. We'll return to this idea when we consider Hades, another important point in the lunation chart. 

The Heliacal Setting star for the day is Regulus. A star located in the heart of the lion in the constellation of Leo. This star points to "the need to avoid revenge." It can indicate success and natural talent (military success is related to Regulus as well), but one must be careful to avoid hubris and excessive anger. 

Could we say:  The time for revenge and dictatorship is Setting (or needs to set) -- and the time for service in one's community and benefic leadership is on the Rise..? As always, I hope so.

Full Moon chart on the pie wheel set in Washington DC:

There are many interesting points to note with this Full Moon. It is square the nodal axis and square the Dec 21, 2010 Total Lunar Eclipse. Jupiter is culminating, while Saturn lies at the Nadir. The Mercury Saturn opposition has passed, but is actually very strong by paran (chart at bottom of this article). Other important parans for the day are: Moon rising (E) with Uranus setting (W), and Mercury Jupiter rising (E) while Pluto culminates (M). Parans are important combined planetary statements. For more information on parans see my previous post. 

Now I'll head to the 90 degree dial, with the TNPs (transNeptunian planets - used commonly by Uranian or Symmetrical astrologers). On the dial there is something that catches our attention right away: Hades. 

(See Hades snuggled right in between the Sun and Moon.)

Hades (the symbol at the top of this article - a waning crescent with a cross) is a hypothetical planet, though it very likely has a body floating around out there in the Kuiper belt somewhere. In addition to symbolizing things used, old, and thrown out, it signifies those things which are hidden or from the past and therefore relates to astrology and the occult. 

Hades sometimes carries with it connotations of sickness and deformity and importantly nursing, i.e. providing relief to those things (including parts of ourselves and other people or places) that we'd rather not look at. In its highest expression it relates to selfless service, pure unadulterated service provided without ego-attachment or a need for recognition. It is giving even though you may receive nothing in return. This echoes (the Full Moon) Virgo/Pisces - and is a perfect synthesis of the two.

At this lunation, Hades is in a precise square to the Sun and Moon. It currently presides in 28 deg 47 min of Gemini (the exact degree and minute of this mutable Full Moon). And it sits very close to the Nodes (the south node specifically). The Nodes signify connections - fated, possibly karmic, and just unions generally. Hades with the Nodes will likely bring a greater concentration of, and focus on, things like poverty and stormy circumstances, even literally stormy weather and floods. It may contribute to an increased interest in hidden knowledge, objects,or people; thingsfrom the past. It may also signify bringing to light (Full Moon) some criminal activity or deeply buried secrets held by governments or others in power. 

If we direct our attention specifically to the Sun Moon Hades combination, some other important points also come into focus. 

You can see on the dial some other points are strongly connected (note the midpoint lines tying these objects together) to this Full Moon. Two more hypothetical planets are illuminated: Cupido and Apollon. But even if we took these points out, we would be left with the Full Moon occurring at the precise Neptune Ascendant midpoint (for Washington DC). This is powerful and ought to be quite descriptive. Will there be more fraud and deceipt coming to light, or being actively hidden? Neptune Ascendant also signifies weakness or illness, even poisons; who is at risk, who needs healing - the government, the American people? Likely both.

Yet another expression of Neptune Ascendant is sensitivity. Some could likely use a little more, especially if it means developing more compassion and trusting intuition instead of listening to the 'experts' or to people who don't have your best interest in mind. Neptune Ascendant can dissolve things too. Aren't we, as a collective, in the midst of recognizing just how much there is to "clean up?" Neptune, like water, is a universal solvent.  

Speaking of cleaning, other Hades significations are things dirty, ruined, ugly, or just plain mean. Hades also rules catastrophes. To be blunt, I think this lunation is forcing us to look at the ugly truth. With the other two TNPs playing into this picture, Apollon with Neptune, and Cupido with Pluto, the ugly truth gets more descriptive. It is one involving corruption, mass deception, and "bad smelling matters" (Neptune Apollon = Hades per Alfred Witte's book, Rules for Planetary Pictures), where social and family conditions are in decline and communities are suffering (Pluto Cupido = Hades). In light of Japan's earthquake, tsunami, and nuclear issues; dictators killing their people; and increased attention finally illuminating our country's greedy and malicious Wall Street bank robbers, is it really a surprise we'd find this reflected in the current lunation?

So how can we use these energies to serve something more positive? By actively directing them into something for the common good. I think we must take action. We must participate in the solution. Uranus, the planet of revolution and change, is part of this picture too and there is no time to waste. Contribute in whatever tiny way you can. Drive your car less. Better yet, sell it! Especially if it's a gas-guzzling S.U.V. The days of mass-consumption are Over. Participate in making a better future (ensure a future period), don't turn the other way and contribute to the problem. (Okay, enough ranting..)

One last thing I'd like to point out about these combinations is that they are actually quite beautiful for those interested in or who study and practice ancient astrology. It is a highly favorable time for the occult sciences. The wisdom of the past meets a science for the future.  

Ne + Ap = Ha  Su  Mo

Paran chart :

I welcome you to leave comments +/or feedback.

Planetary Parans

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Planets in paran are important indicators of combined planetary energy.

All astrologers will agree that when planets are on angles they are "strong." And when you have two (or more) planets on two angles simultaneously, then, not only are the energies considered very strong, but they are also relating to one another in a big way. This can lead to either a synthesis of energy or a frustration of energies, depending on the two planets involved. Just think about the two planets. Do they work well together? Or is there dissonance? What might a more difficult combination be good for? (Maybe the relentless pursuit of tedious, difficult tasks...)

Let's look at some examples.

(Note: for consistency I'm using the same point in time for all locations. The time shown on the charts is local time for the place named. All times are 15:00 GMT.)

Today's paran chart for the West Coast of the United States: 

First, notice where there are overlapping lines. Those lines joined with other lines with each indicating a different angle are the most important. For example, an 'E' (East, or rising) with a 'M' (Midheaven, or culminating point). You can see in the chart above that there are a few times today when two planets are on two different angles simultaneously. This is important for understanding the energy of the day. And is also potentially very important for knowing when that energy will be making its greatest impact in the locale being considered. 

Notice above: Jupiter (E) rising, while Pluto (M) is culminating at around 8AM. (I realize it is hard to see the lines clearly when they are bunched up—sorry about that.) 

What I aim to illuminate is how easy it can be to overlook important indicators of the day (combined planetary energies) when we are only looking at a regular "pie wheel," i.e, the chart below.


Yes, Pluto and Jupiter are close to the angles in this chart, but it misses the emphasis placed on their exact paran relationship.

In fact, by typical astrological standards, they are in a wide aspect—a four degree separating square—well, wide for Uranians. ;-)

By paran however, they are in a very strong relationship.

Another use for the paran chart, or paran clock, is to see quickly when certain relationships are forming on the angles. And you'll see that the time of day doesn't actually vary that much worldwide. But exactly how precise the paran relationship is can vary a lot—and this is quite important.

Take for example the Moon rising (E) while Neptune is setting (W) at about 4:45PM in the paran chart. In Seattle, at that time (chart below), the Moon Neptune combo is in a fairly close opposition near those angles. 

And as you can see in the chart below for London, Moon Neptune is strong as well. However in other places in the world (charts at the bottom of the article) you'll find the Moon Neptune combo happening at a roughly similar time, but its true paran relationship breaks down completely. And this is important.

This is the paran chart for today in London: 

With regards to Moon Neptune, what might this speak to for the day? Increased sensitivity, possibly compassion, confusion, tears, rain… Maybe a time of marked receptivity or dreaminess. A need for relaxation, or escapism—did someone say Happy Hour?

There is another important paran taking place in both charts and that is between Mercury and Saturn. This accentuates the currently building Mercury Saturn opposition. But it is important to note that planets in paran relationship are not always in aspect. So this evening while Mercury sets (W) Saturn rises (E) a little before 9PM. And, as you can see, this paran holds up, it remains strong.

Think about what this combination can indicate. Gloominess, a somber mood, serious or even depressed thinking. Likely it reflects the collective sadness we feel with what has happened this past week. The Great Tohoku, Japan Earthquake and Tsunami, 11 March 2011, and nuclear disaster.

Maybe it is indicative of worry, or even fearful thinking—with what's up globally and nationally right now, that's not surprising. Rigorous study is another way to think of Mercury Saturn. Its effect late this evening could assist or prod us in thinking carefully about what measures or steps we may need to take in order to ensure our own safety locally and/or globally. Or maybe it is simply descriptive of a time when many of us are thinking more realistically about our future, and our limited stay here on the planet. What can we do to responsibly contribute to the health of our planet, or to our communities?

To get a better picture of how things can look quite different by paran in other parts of the world on the same day, I've included the charts of Mumbai, India and Singapore:

There are several things of interest here, but we'll touch on only a few.

Notice first that Moon Neptune is happening at a similar time of day, but are not closely aligned in paran anymore. Meaning, at the time the Moon and Neptune crossed over their respective angles they were not in a strong aspect (opposition). This may indicate that these particular energies won't be felt quite as strongly as they are by those of us in the U.S. and U.K. today.

Also notice the Mercury Saturn we were referring to before: it loses strength. As does the Jupiter Pluto combination in the morning. One eye catching thing that stands out in the chart for India is Uranus culminating (M) while Pluto is setting (W) at 1:15PM. These two planets are not even close to being in paran in all of the other charts! The same goes for the combination of Saturn and Pluto at 2:15AM. Consider these energies. Pluto is indicative of development and transformation; with Uranus, expect things to be sudden or revolutionary; with Saturn, it could be hindered or difficult. These are just examples, not predictions.

In Singapore, by contrast, as far as planetary parans go, things look pretty mellow.

To conclude, obviously there are many, many ways to interpret planetary energies and I encourage you to play with this one a bit. Apply some of what we’ve gone over to events in the past, or find combinations mentioned, find some others. Think about what is going on where and what that means for different places and people.

Speaking of, one final important thing to note: parans are found in a person’s natal chart! And as you can imagine, they offer undeniably powerful descriptors for character and activity.   

If you'd like to share, leave a comment. If you’d like to speak with me about your own parans, be in touch!

What's happening in Japan?!

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I've been writing on facebook this week, since the earthquake, that I thought there would be more in store for Japan. This is because there have been some major planetary energies joining the picture. First, and quite importantly, Mars has been running with Saturn on the cardinal axis--the world's stage--in addition to Uranus. At its worst the energy of Mars Saturn brings interruption and forced separation, sickness, and destruction (which we've already seen), and at its best, discipline and endurance. With Uranus though - added is an element of shock or surprise.

Saturn is also aligned with Zeus (TNP), now through September, and while Mars was meeting up with Saturn he was also having his dance with Zeus. Zeus is a point that represents explosives, fire, even nuclear threat.... especially with a combination like Mars + Saturn = Uranus (!). Saturn Zeus on its own can symbolize a lack of work (as Zeus = machines), the breakdown of machines (or Unions?), loss from fire, oppression, and so on. For this time though I think these particular combos are/were definitely pointing to major nuclear energy issues and explosions. 

Late last week, as I was considering Uranus' ingress into Aries (which only happens every 84 years), I was looking on the 90 degree dial--often used for event oriented astrology--and noted this important Mars Saturn combo. The next day, off the coast of Sendai on March 11, 2011, the earthquake happened. Following that, a terribly destructive tsunami. And now some major nuclear issues. There are many astrological indicators that we can examine for what has occurred. My wish and hope for now and in the future is for astrologers to align (both amongst themselves and also with leaders in science and government), and utilize the many timing indicators astrology has to offer to prevent further damage or to potentially minimize it.  

From the chart of the earthquake there were quite literal expressions or indicators of what might follow. One indicator points specifically to issues with radiation. 

Notice at that moment, Poseidon was running precisely with the MC. Poseidon can represent spirituality and light--as in enlightenment, and people who are high-minded. (Consider how the Japanese are reacting to these catastrophes, with discipline and calm, there has been no looting.) Poseidon however may also indicate radiation here. 

And there are several combinations here that describe an earthquake exactly. Most of them include Uranus, sometimes Zeus or Admetos. Admetos symbolizes the beginning or end of life, things underground or coming from the ground, and raw beginnings. 

One combo: Sun + Uranus - Aries = Sun (which is the timer for the "day")

Another is: Uranus + Zeus - Hades = Moon  (which is the timer for the "hour")

A third: Aries + Zeus - Admetos = AS/Mercury (which is the "minute")

And finally (and powerfully): Uranus + Admetos = Admetos (+ Jupiter)

This last combination is frighteningly descriptive. Alfred Witte's "Rules for Planetary Pictures" states:

"Sudden rupture-like separation. Shock commotion. Destruction through convulsion. Earthquake..".

I don't know what to say or do in the midst of watching events like these transpire, as we are all witness to much difficulty. I hope the energy of that Mars Saturn will compel people to do what's right and act with integrity, strength, and fortitude.

My personal hope is that astrology will be taken more seriously in the world; utilized to prevent or minimize damage in events like these. We could be participating in changing the way we help and serve people all over the planet.  

 

Equinox is right around the corner, but first...

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What the heck is going on? 

A lot

A lot around the world and a lot astrologically. Of course the two are the same. That is the point. Especially when you focus on the Cardinal Axis - also known as the solstice points - the cardinal axis is the world's stage.

So what is up?

Uranus makes its ingress into Aries tomorrow. Which means it is very directly on the cardinal axis now. Recently the nodes and Mercury have been involved---causing stormy weather most likely, and a lot of excitement in the news and communication generally. The Sun and Jupiter are involved today (so things kinda feel ok, good even, under the circumstances). But Jupiter is also good at expanding and enlarging things, making things bigger.  From now through the weekend the energy will be Mars and Saturn, aligning on the axis and pointed at Uranus---which might not feel so good. In fact, Mars Saturn can be quite a tough combo to deal with, as it is sometimes associated with harmful or destructive energy. However, it can also give endurance. If we stay in reality, and do the hard work, Mars Saturn can pay off in spades.  

It is typical, as the days go by, that things come into and go out of alignment on the cardinal axis, world's stage, and we witness and experience their effects. But it isn't everyday that Uranus is sitting right there too---in fact, that only happens roughly every 20 years (when it moves from the end of a mutable sign into the beginning of a cardinal sign). And it takes Uranus 84 years to move through all of the signs---which means it hasn't made an entrance into Aries since the late 1920's!

So with Uranus on the Aries point, it also becomes the midpoint of each of these energies as they align on the world's stage. Sorry if I sound repetitive here, but having Uranus as the midpoint of all these changing energies tends to make everything a little (or a lot) more exciting. Uranus rules innovation, surprises, sudden events, accidents, wildness, wierdness, non-conformity, breakthroughs (or breakdowns), and a lot more...  

It's kind of like everything has been plugged into a live outlet. 

Lets hope the "extraordinariness and unusualness" of this time equates to our having amazing fortitude under whatever stressful circumstances we come to face.

Use the time as wisely as you do wildly.  

And, Please be safe.