Solar Phases

As February opens, the Sun will be completing it's annual tour of Aquarius before heading for the realm of watery Pisces. Interestingly, although Aquarius is an air sign, it is the actually known as the constellation of the water bearer, so water does seem to be a continuing theme at this time, despite the change in signs. Interestingly, Gavin White, author of Babylonian Star Lore tells us that the Babylonians, who 'invented' astrology, interpreted the constellation of the Water Bearer as the figure of a man irrigating the fields and farms of Mesopotamia  at the start of the agricultural season. This generally occurred just after the winter solstice, i.e. January, when increased rains would fall. Thus, the sigil for Aquarius, K represents both the equivalent of the letter 'A' in the cuneiform alphabet, as well as standing as a pictorial symbol for water. According to White:

'This sign by itself simply signifies ‘water’, but it is also used in numerous compounds expressing watery concepts, such as river, flood, sea and lake. The basic form of this sign has evolved into the familiar zigzag symbol used as the modern glyph for Aquarius.'¹

Often referred to simply as 'The Great One' this mythological figure was depicted as a giant man, standing astride a mountain range, holding one or more vats overflowing with water. In Babylonian art, these watery streams were often embellished with fishes. This may be related to the fact that the Babylonians imagined that the southern fish in the constellation of Pisces, actually swam along one of the streams emanating from the vase in the constellation of the water bearer in the night sky. We can therefore see that, from very early on, the mythology and iconography of these two constellations was inextricably linked by the medium of water. 

It is worth noting that Gula (meaning 'The Great One') as Aquarius was known to the Mesopotamians, was not only thought of as the 'heavenly irrigator' responsible for bringing the winter rains, but was also associated with the god Enki or Ea, ruler of the watery Abyss found in the Underworld², as well as being the god who was thought to have bestowed humankind with the gift of prophecy and divination^3, bringing us full circle back to the realm of astrology...

In Mesopotamian cosmology, the world was thought to be surrounded by a massive circular ocean. This cosmic ocean was reflected in the rivers below on earth, and the Milky Way above. Thus, important rivers, such as the Tigiris and Euphrates were often thought of as the earthly equivalents or counterparts of the starry celestial stream seen moving across the sky at night. This meant that, in a way, the stars were thought to float in water. It is worth noting that Ea was often depicted as a Goatfish - a mythical creature that was half-earthly, half-watery, and therefore associated with the astrological sigil for Capricorn J- the zodiacal sign that precedes Aquarius. Both signs were once ruled by Saturn, showing an ancient connection between the two. However, Capricorn is an earth sign, whilst Aquarius is an air sign - perhaps reflecting their different dominions within Mesopotamian mythology? Ea/Capricorn as the ruler of the natural earthly and subterranean realms, such as the mountains and the Underworld, and the god therefore, of terrestrial, particularly underground water; whilst Aquarius/Gula, as the heavenly irrigator, associated with rains falling from the sky, is more of an air god, associated with storms and thunder. The final piece of puzzle, Pisces, as the constellation of the two fishes swimming in opposite directions L. In Babylonian star lore, these two fish were thought to represent the two fishes mentioned in the myth concerning the birth of a local goddess, Derceto, in which the fish jointly rescue a golden egg from the depths of the Euphrates river, out of which the goddess emerges. (One can't help noticing overlaps with the birth of Venus in Greek mythology here!)  Others think that this story may symbolically represent the rescue of the Sun (the golden egg) from the lowest reaches of the underworld, as it begins its journey of re-ascent into the southern skies (in the northern hemisphere) as it begins to gain in height (i.e. declination). Either way, whilst the fishes themselves may not have been considered to be gods by the Mesopotamians, they was nonetheless important seasonal markers associated with the beginning of the growing season; and most definitely, with the element of water.

Delving back into the ancient star myths out of which astrology arose helps us to see the logic behind certain connections such as the elements of earth, air and water, and their reason for their assignment to these three signs; and, in turn their connections to the seasons,  all of which is reflected in the shared water symbolism we find in the mythology and iconography of Capricorn, Aquarius and Pisces. 

White offers us his own explanation for this:

The constellations rising between the winter solstice and the spring equinox are justifiably referred to as the 'Waters' in Greek star lore as they are for the most part dominated by aquatic symbols. The most obvious examples are the various fish and fish-like beings such as Capricorn, and of course the rivers and watery outflows associated with Pisces and Aquarius. This swathe of watery symbolism is no doubt the end result of precession [of the equinoxes] which has caused ancient astrologers to duplicate symbols like the fish and the rivers westwards in order to keep in step with the ever-shifting positions of the solstices and equinoxes.⁴

 

Whilst precession may have played a role, it is hard to ignore the closeness of the symbolic link between the three signs found in this quadrant of the zodiac. Given water's liminal nature, which can metamorphose from ice to snow to liquid, and steam, a predominance of watery imagery spread over these three signs, each possibly representing a different aspect or manifestations of this element, during a transitional phase of the year, seems to be extremely apt. As I write this, I am wondering about whether further research would reveal links to the melancholic and phlegmatic humours in ancient medicine, but that will have to be left for another time.

18 February - 19 March
SUN IN PISCES

On the 19th of February the Sun enters the astrological sign of Pisces at around 18h36 GMT. Piscean qualities include creativity, non-aggression, compassion and imagination. Ruled by Neptune (formerly under the dominion of Jupiter) Pisces is the last sign of the zodiac and therefore considered by evolutionary astrologers to be the sign of 'old souls'  - those able to put aside their egos and relate to others in a deep and highly empathic way. That is why those born under this sign are often very sensitive, with an other-worldly quality about them that is palpable to others. Sometimes this sensitivity may border on the psychic. Many Pisceans have the potential to develop into highly-developed spiritual teachers, provided they are able to protect themselves by developing sound inter-personal barriers, and ways to cope with the many tragedies and cruelties that come with living in the material world.  Many Christian teachings, such as 'Turn the other cheek', 'love thy neighbour as thyself' etc resonate with Piscean ideals, so perhaps it is no coincidence then that Jesus Christ was born during the Age of Pisces, that is, when the Spring Equinox fell in the sign of Pisces (this changes due to a phenomenon called Precession of the Equinoxes.) The fluid, receptive quality of this water sign means that many Pisceans also have a chameleon-like quality that makes them good actors, musicians and photographers, all pursuits that will be favoured during this time period.

 

As psychic sponges, many Pisceans find it difficult to deal with the harsh realities of the human condition which is why many feel the need to develop protection mechanisms. Some are less successful than others. I have seen many fishes acquire aggressive persona's which keep others at bay through fear or dislike, rather like having a psychological guard dog around. Others take a more passive approach, seeking out escape routes via drugs, an inner fantasy life or joining a extreme organizations, such as cults, that appear to protect them from the outside world through a mixture of strict regimes and limited membership. As a result, Pisces is also the sign most associated with self-deception, self-sacrifice (including victimhood and matyrdom) and addiction. Given these inherent weak spots, it may be worth keeping a look out for situations tinged by these qualities during the course of the next month. Finding ways to give of yourself without losing yourself in the process is the message of the Sun this month. Get the balance right between selfishness and selflessness is the best way to avoid negative feelings such as guilt, on the one hand; and resentment, on the other. 

 

Lunar Phases
This month, the New Moon in Aquarius will fall on Valentine’s Day boding especially well for new romances! On the same night, a Sun-Neptune conjunction, also in Aquarius, takes place, promising to make this a night filled with romantic surprises. See my entry in the calendar below for more information. The Full Moon in Virgo at 16h38 GMT on the 28^th of February is an excellent time to put the finishing touches to projects. At this time, the god will be in the details.’

 

14 February

The New Moon will occur at 02h51 GMT on the 14^th of February in Aquarius and, according to the Moonwise Calendar, is ruled by the Ash tree. In Celtic mythology, especially in Ireland, the Ash was thought to have magical protective properties: on the Isle of Man, for example, Ash wood was thought to prevent its owner from being enchanted or bewitched by fairy spells. The seedpods of the Ash were also used in some forms of Celtic divination, suggesting a connection with qualities such as raw potential and new beginnings, similar to the function of the Aces in the Tarot pip cards.  The Ash tree also itself has a ceremonial function in certain Beltaine (May Day) fertility rituals. Given this last association, an Ash Moon falling on Valentine's Day does seem to augur well for love and romance. A New Moon on Valentine's Day suggests that some lucky souls may meet a new love, or begin a new emotional cycle on this day. This is because the Moon will be starting a new cycle, which resonates well with the idea of someone new entering your life, but of course could also apply to a new phase or major change in a current relationship, such as getting engaged or married, for example. On this night, romance and poetry are guaranteed in handfuls, thanks to a Sun-Neptune conjunction - a union that combines self-assertion and expression with a certain surreal, seductive, and poetic quality. This is definitely a time to reveal your feelings  - any positive expressions of emotion, such as arranging a thoughtful night out or sending a card or flowers with a heart-felt message, are well-starred now. So pluck up the courage and take a chance - more than likely, you'll be glad that you did! This conjunction takes place in Aquarius, a sign associated with friends, group associations and humanitarian causes. Perhaps on this day, a friendship may develop into something deeper? The New Moon also bodes well for IT start-ups and mass media products, as well as business initiatives involving charities or ethical products. 

 

This New Moon will be most positively affect those with air or fire Sun, Ascendants or Moons, especially those in Aquarius, Gemini, Libra, Aries, Leo and Sagittarius.

 

28 February

The February Full Moon occurs on the 28th of February 2010 at 16h38 in practical, neat and helpful Virgo. This is an excellent time to put the finishing touches to projects. Virgo is a hard-working sign that is good with detail and work involving the hands, such as jewellery-making and writing, making this an excellent period to do final checks on written work such as proof-reading, editing or marking, especially anything that is due to be completed or handed in around now because of the moon phase involved. Any intricate work that requires a precision and a light touch will go smoothly at this time because you will be blessed with patience, a steady hand and a beady eye. This is also a good time to make lists of jobs that need wrapping up; to organise and tidy your house or office; or to compile or update databases. On the same day, and in the opposite part of the sky, a Sun-Jupiter conjunction in Pisces will be taking place, bringing an upbeat and confident mood to bear on the day. This gregarious and optimistic energy should put paid to any tendencies to nag or criticize that may arise out of the Virgo lunar placement. Thanks to the combination of these two events, which lead to a fusion of creativity and practicality, neither the big picture, nor the fine print will be neglected at this time - a wonderfully productive period! Personal projects and long-term career plans could also begin to bear fruit now. The only thing to watch out for now is a tendency to be over-confident or accomplish too much, so don't bite off more than you can chew. Another way this energy could manifest is through supportive functions and roles. Virgo is a sign very much associated with service, so it might be that during the coming month, your most valuable contribution might be involve more indirect involvement. For example,  in the form of supporting and facilitating behind-the scenes processes that allow others to work more effectively, concentrating their energies on completing the task at hand, rather than worry about peripheral things that might get in the way. These tasks, which are in many cases performed by women, often go unrecognized, yet they are so vital to the successful everyday running of a household and/or organization. In fact, we usually only notice these functions when they are suddenly absent or no longer working properly. In these scenarios, the Sun-Jupiter conjunction may indicate that, rather than be forgotten or neglected, those performing supportive roles may now find themselves in receipt of some well-deserved praise or acknowledgment, possibly even a raise or promotion! 

This Full Moon will most positively affect those with water or earth Suns, Ascendants or Moons, especially in Virgo, Taurus, Capricorn, Cancer, Scorpio and Pisces.

 

Planetary Events, Stellar Phases & Energy Shifts

During February, the planet Jupiter, which was visible in the northern hemisphere, now begins to lose visibility as it moves towards the sun, getting lower in the sky. On the 16th of February, the conjunction between Venus and Jupiter should be visible in the south-western skies, at about 4 degrees above the horizon. The  sight of the two benefic planets meeting in dreamy Pisces is topped off by the appearance of the crescent Moon, emerging from its recent period of invisibility, hanging in the sky above. Mercury will be invisible from the northern skies for a brief period of about two weeks because of its southerly declination, hanging low in the southern skies in the sidereal constellation of Cancer (in astrology, it is retrograde in the tropical zodiac sign of Leo. This is because of precession of the equinoxes.) However, just before dawn (around 07h00 GMT) on the 12th February, Mercury can be viewed, below and to the right of the waning crescent Moon. Mercury will reach aphelion (that is, the point in its orbit when it is furthest from the Sun) around the 13th of February. Venus has been absent from the northern night skies since the 30th of November, when she set heliacally with the Sun and disappeared into the underworld. She will not be visible again until late February, when she will reappear in the western skies as a faint evening star.

 

6 February
MERCURY IN CAPRICORN SEXTILE URANUS IN PISCES
The first major aspect of February is a stimulating sextile between Mercury, planet of communication, commerce and quick-wittedness; and Uranus, ruler of technology, electricity and lighting-like flashes of inspiration. The combination of industrious Capricorn and adaptable Pisces mean that progress in business is likely to be impressive today. This aspect is particularly good for those who work in the fields of IT, idea generation (such as copywriters and creative advertising executives) the media as well as those involved in the design and invention of new technology or machinery. Those who have been plagued with writer's block or flummoxed by a problems or delays caused by technology are likely to have a Eureka moment that once again gets the juices flowing or office computer systems and equipment up and running again. Creative people will be blessed by flashes of inspiration, whilst businessmen, professional buyers and shoppers are all likely to stumble upon the deal of a lifetime around now.

 

Zodiac signs most likely to reap the rewards of this aspect include: Virgo, Capricorn, Pisces, Taurus and Scorpio, and to some extent Gemini, Cancer and Aquarius.

 

JUPITER IN PISCES SEXTILE PLUTO IN CAPRICORN
On the same day as the Mercury-Uranus sextile, a similar aspect takes place between Jupiter and Pluto. Big changes or major shake-ups to corporations, infrastructure, family set-ups and leadership positions are all likely now. Perhaps further news of Obama's planned reforms to the banking industry will be announced at this time? The good news is that, with Jupiter involved, any moves, relocations, alterations or restructuring that takes place now is likely to go smoothly and actually end up being for the better. On a more personal level, this is a good time to reassess your current responsibilities and obligations, both to the wider world, as well as one's own family, to see if you can improve efficiency and cut down on unnecessary expenditure when it comes to yours or others' time, money or energy. This is a good time to seek the advice of an expert, such as a life coach, financial adviser or lawyer - any one with specialised skills that can help you streamline your lifestyle and help you to reorganize your priorities.

 

The signs most likely to benefit from this aspect include: Pisces, Capricorn, Sagittarius, Scorpio, Taurus and to some extent, Cancer and Virgo.

 

13 February
MERCURY IN AQUARIUS OPPOSITION MARS, RETROGRADE IN LEO
Today may not be a good time for communication, travel or meetings of any kind, or for implementing any new ideas, signing contracts or executing plans. Choose another date to try and resolve a thorny issue or meet up with a difficult client because a difficult aspect between Mars and Mercury today makes it likely that you'll just end up rehashing old arguments and not actually make any progress. Stand-offs and differences of opinion are also likely as ego's get bruised and people become overly competitive. If you are a nervous speaker, try not to arrange presentations for this day because, more than likely, someone will steal the limelight from you, talk over you or refuse to hear sense. Fortunately, Mercury is a swift-moving planet, so this aspect will not last long. Take a deep breath, bite your tongue and wait for it to pass.

 

Those most likely to be affected by this aspect include those born with Aries, Gemini, Leo and Aquarius prominent, as well as the other air and fire signs of Libra and Sagittarius.

 

MERCURY IN AQUARIUS TRINE SATURN IN LIBRA
Earlier on the same day, a more stabilizing aspect between Mercury and Saturn takes place that will result in more level-headed thinking and behaviour. If you can't reschedule any important discussions or meetings today, then try to hold them before 10h30 GMT, when the Mercury-Mars opposition becomes exact. This is an excellent aspect for relationship or diplomatic discussions of any kind, as well as forging partnerships related to humanitarian efforts or technology. Friends are likely to offer sage advice now, as will advocacy groups, such as the Citizen's Advice Bureau, so don't be afraid to call on them for help.

 

Signs most likely to benefit from today's planetary activity include: Gemini, Aquarius, Libra, Capricorn, and Sagittarius.

 

14 February
SUN CONJUNCT NEPTUNE IN AQUARIUS
Valentine's Day this year is bound to be memorable, thanks to a magical conjunction between the Sun and Neptune. Taking place in the sign of Aquarius, associated with glamour, surprises and the unexpected, the message of the day is 'Anything could happen.' Unlike other years, this could be the day when you actually do find a card from an admirer in your letter box, or find that out that the object of your ardour does return your affections. Grand gestures and heart-felt declarations are all favoured now, so take a risk and tell someone how you feel. Given the blending of Neptunian and Aquarian energies,  it is also possible that friendships could blossom into romance now. Even if you don't have plans today, go out dressed as if you do, because, by evening, you might well have received an unexpected invitation! Thanks to this conjunction, which takes place during a New Moon, symbol of new emotional beginnings, those of you Bridget Jones-style singletons, who never have any luck in love, may just find that, this year, all that changes.

 

Those born under the signs of Aquarius, Leo, Cancer and Pisces are most likely to notice the effects of this aspect, although everyone should notice some benefits.    

 

15 February
VENUS IN PISCES SEXTILE PLUTO IN CAPRICORN
The day after Valentine's Day could bring with it profound discussions about relationships. Commitment and the need for change seem to be the themes suggested by the Venus-Pluto sextile taking place today. Pluto, in serious Capricorn, appears to be demanding that decisions be made regarding the status quo of a romantic liaison, diplomatic relationship or business partnership. Perhaps one of you has been shy about being tied down or evasive about the question of marriage or to moving in together? This could be the day that you are made to come clean and state where you stand on important relationship issues or else face the prospect of losing your other half for good. Those of you on the receiving end of commitment-phobic behaviour may find that today your patience finally runs out, and you decide to initiate make-or-break talks with your other half. Given the positive nature of this aspect, it is likely that talks of this nature will end favourably or turn out in your best interest - no doubt a relief to those afraid of rocking the boat.

 

The signs most likely to benefit from this aspect are the water and earth signs including: Pisces, Cancer, Scorpio, Taurus, Virgo and Capricorn.

 

MARS IN LEO SEXTILE SATURN, RETROGRADE IN LIBRA
An dynamic aspect between Mars and Saturn today suggests that great progress and achievement can be made at work and in physical activities. Any reviews  of previous plans are likely to really improve the overall outcome and effectiveness of a project too, so don't be shy to revisit anything at this time, given both Mars and Saturn's retrograde direction. Artistic  pursuits, as well as presentations or displays of any kind are also well-aspected, as are mentorship or sports initiatives and creative partnerships or collaborations in areas such as body-building, motor car design, military operations and iron-work. Be sure to get up early and make the most of this highly productive energy - with Mars retrograde and energy levels generally fairly low, it is worth taking any bit of oomph you can get!

 

The signs most likely to benefit from this aspect are: Leo, Aries, Libra & Capricorn, as well as other air and fire signs, including Gemini, Sagittarius and Aquarius.

 

17 February
VENUS CONJUNCT JUPITER IN PISCES
During February, the three most positive planets in astrology will gather in the sign of Pisces. The immediate result of this of this planetary gathering is a Venus-Jupiter conjunction, which takes place on the 17^th. Considered to be one of the most fortunate planetary combinations in astrology, this union of the benefic planets is sure to bring good news in love, money and matters related to education, diplomacy, religion, as well as social and cultural pursuits. This is truly  'dream-come-true' energy, but, like any astrological aspect, requires taking a proactive approach in order to benefit from its potential.

 

Pisceans in particular, as well as the other water and earth signs (Cancer, Scorpio, Taurus, and Capricorn) in general are likely to have a very lucky and successful day, so mark it with red letters in your diary and be sure to arrange some power meetings for today. Virgo's could see developments in relation to partnerships of all kinds, both personal and professional, so if you were planning ask somebody out, or sign a merger deal, this would be the day to do it.

28 February
SUN CONJUNCT JUPITER IN PISCES
On the same night as the Full Moon, the Sun will make a propitious conjunction with Jupiter, planet of good fortune, justice and expansion, on the 28^th. This is the second positive development arising out of the planetary gathering of the Sun, Venus and Jupiter in Pisces mentioned above. The healing vibrations of this aspect are sure to bring about positive developments, especially for those who are ill, depressed or in difficulty, as well as anyone campaigning for policy change on behalf of the oppressed and downtrodden. Overall, this is the perfect day to toot your own horn, ask for a raise or just generally put yourself 'out there' if you are in need of support or acknowledgment of any kind. Given that the Full Moon falls in the hard-working sign of Virgo, this aspect bodes especially well for anyone looking for employment or a career break of any kind. 

Whilst this aspect is generally lucky for everybody, those signs most likely to benefit are the water and earth signs including: Pisces, Cancer, Scorpio, Taurus, Virgo and Capricorn.