Some Autumn Astro-Mythology

During ancient times, especially in the astral myths of the cultures of the Near East where astrology had its birthplace, the Sun was thought to journey through the Underworld at this time of the year. According to the ancient Egyptians and Mesopotamians, the Sun would enter the gates of the earth around the Autumn Equinox, and then spend November making its way to the place of rebirth that occurs every December around the winter solstice  - the turning point in the sun’s cycle when the ratio between light and dark reverses. Archaeologists think that the megalithic cultures of the Bronze Age linked this time of the year not only with the rebirth of natural cycles, but also possibly saw it as a time when they could access the wisdom and power of their ancestors from the spirit realm.

In Egypt, both the sun and stars were thought to ‘die’ as they set on the western horizon, and then travel through the Duat or Egyptian netherworld, emerging reborn on the eastern horizon some weeks later at dawn. This phenomenon is known as heliacal rising and setting and refers to stars rising and setting with the sun. The heliacal rising and setting of star constellations played a very important role in early Western astrology, which had its birthplace in Alexandrian Egypt. The most well-known remnants of this practise, which was used in both Egypt and Mesopotamia to mark time, are the decans, which were initially star groups that rose and set every 10 days but eventually became associated with the microzodiac - marking out ten degree slots on the 360 degree zodiac wheel.

In Egyptian star mythology, the period between a star's disappearance and reappearance was though to be 70 days, based on the disappearance and re-emergence of Sirius, the bright star of Isis, whose heliacal rising near the summer solstice marked the beginning of the Egyptian New Year, as well as the annual inundation of the Nile. Later, this story became bound up with the recovery and resurrection of the body of Osiris by Isis. The fact that the Egyptian mummification ritual traditionally took 70 days suggests a stellar link to the heliacal setting and rising of Sirius in Egyptian thought, as well as a link between heliacal setting and the journey of rebirth through the underworld.

It is worth remembering that for the Egyptians, the netherworld was not considered to be at all like the Christian hell, but rather the source and foundation of life, and Osiris, its ruler, the backbone of Egypt. This is culture that truly appreciated the importance of the Earth and its role in maintaining the cycle of life within the natural realm.

Solar Phases

23 October - 22 November
SUN IN SCORPIO
Astrologically, the Sun will be moving through the sign of Scorpio in the Western tropical zodiac until 04.23 on November the 22^nd of November when it enters the constellation of the archer, Sagittarius. In the Tetrabiblos, Book X, considered to be the ‘bible’ of western astrology,  Ptolemy, the Graeco-Egyptian astrologer, writes that the sign of Scorpio, along with the other fixed signs of Taurus, Leo and Aquarius, are considered to be ‘solid’ signs because they ‘follow the solsticial and equinoctial signs; and they are so called because when the sun is in them the moisture, heat, dryness, and cold of the seasons that begin in the preceding signs touch us more firmly.’

 It is worth remembering that the tropical zodiac follows the solar cycle, and is a symbolic system based on the time that the sun enters 0 degrees Aries at the Spring Equinox, and NOT on the actual zodiac in the sky – that is, the sidereal zodiac, upon which Indian or Vedic astrology is still based, and which astronomers refer to. This is why when astronomers talk about the movements of the planets in relation to the constellations, they always appear to be one constellation out from the astrological system. Thus, in the West we use a very solar-based astrology, which Bernadette Brady calls ecliptic-based or heliocentric astrology. Although this astrology is extremely powerful and rich symbolically, reflecting the central role that the Sun plays in our solar system, it does favour those planets and star-groups that travel near the Sun’s path, leaving out many other constellations in the night sky.

In keeping with the sun's apparent descent into the earth (and therefore into the underworld for many of the ancients) the sun in Scorpio is about an increasing in darker, feminine, more introspective energy. Scorpio is associated with the Underworld, sexuality, death and rebirth, and the esoteric. Formerly ruled by Mars, and later by Pluto, the planetoid named after the Roman god of hidden riches and mining (gems and minerals being perceived as the treasures hidden deep in the earth) as well as being ruler of the Underworld. Since this was conceived of as being situated deep in the earth, there is an interesting but positive association between Scorpio and the earth  - in the ancient mind, both are associated with death and regeneration - the foundation of the life cycle. It is no coincidence, then, that Scorpios are very good at recycling, repairing and restoring old things, such as antiques. This ancient relationship between Scorpio and the cycle of nature also explains why this sign is associated on a mundane level with things that seem repugnant or taboo by most people, such as rubbish, sewerage and but which are essential in terms of kick-starting the natural cycle of life - we need dead matter such as leaves to decay into compost in order to fertilise our soil in order to keep growing crops and flowers. This reflected in nature - in the northern hemisphere, as the weather gets wetter and colder, we begin to witness plants and leaves dying, falling back down to the earth where they mingle with the damp earth to form a natural compost, feeding the soil in time for next year's growth. Scorpios instinctively know this and this is what gives them such a deep affinity not just with the earth and nature, but also with those topics and areas of life that others consider to be unpleasant or do not like to dwell on, including death, decay and the spirit world. It is therefore no coincidence that we celebrate the festival of Halloween during the Sun's journey through this passionate and profound sign.

Overall, this time of year is good for 'dying' briefly to the outside world, pulling back from the hustle and bustle of the busy summer social scene and mulling over what we have achieved during the last six months. This more introverted energy is good for assessing what we would like to achieve inwardly, be it educating ourselves through more intense periods of reading, studying a subject in-depth, or profound conversations with those few people who really matter, rather than the light banter of summer nights outside the pub. Now is also a good time to pursue a course of therapy, start a compost heap or worm farm, put away summer clothes and get out the winter woollies or just generally spend more time on your own resting or taking nice long walks or hot baths, gathering your thoughts and restoring your energy before the Jupiter-inspired Christmas party season gets underway.

Lunar Phases

On Monday the 2^nd of November, we will experience a Full Moon at 19.14 GMT in the sign of Taurus, thus bringing into balance the solar energy of Scorpio, since these two signs are polar opposites in the zodiac wheel. Traditionally, Monday (which originates from the word Moon Day) is ruled by the Moon, whilst Venus rules the sign of Taurus, making the new lunar energy emerging at this time particularly powerful in terms of feminine energy. This seems to be an excellent time for news beginnings in the area of relationships, as well as issues to do with nutrition, nourishment (of mind and spirit), nurturing and the re-establishment of harmony. On this day, the Moon will be opposing Mercury, planet of ideas, travel, communication and teaching; and making a square to Mars, which traditionally rules conflict, sexuality and physical vitality. These configurations suggest the possibility of passionate words being exchanged, as well as the likelihood of challenges arising out of a difference of opinion. Mars also rules surgery and blood, and it is well-known that people tend to bleed more at the Full Moon, so if possible, avoid having any kind of operation or surgical procedure on this day if at all possible. On a more positive note, the Moon is exalted in Taurus, giving it a dignified air; and it will also be trining Pluto, thus hopefully resulting in dramatic but positive reforms in the mundane sphere, and emotional shifts on an inner level.

The New Moon occurs at 19.14 on Monday 16^th November in the sign of Scorpio, associated with death & rebirth, the esoteric, profound transformation and deeply rooted passions. Sun sign Scorpios and those with Scorpio Ascendants should consider this lunation phase to be a kind of personal New Moon - a once-a-year event heralding in a fresh cycle relating to daily rituals, domestic arrangements, emotions, the subconscious and the body, especially the breast/chest area and the reproductive organs. This is an excellent time for proactively starting a new exercise regime, or introducing healthier dietary and emotional habits into your life. It is also a great time to seek out healing treatments or counselling, since your physical body and your subconscious will be particularly responsive to regenerative and restorative therapies.

2 November - 2 December
AUTUMN-WINTER FULL MOON
The Full Moon occurs at 19.14 GMT on the 2nd of November 2009 in the sign of Taurus. Traditionally, the Moon is exalted in Taurus, making this a particularly strong and positive lunar phase, one which favours sensuality, fertility and luxury. This is an excellent time for pampering yourself or cooking a hearty meal for friends and loved ones.  Generally, the Full Moon is a good time to wind up current projects or to take something to the next level. Aiding you in this endeavour is a flowing trine aspect between the Moon and serious Pluto, which suggests drawing a line under certain emotional chapters of your life, or deciding to commit yourself in matters of the heart. However, earlier in the day, the Moon will square feisty Mars, suggesting that although it may be a good time to make emotional or domestic changes, you need  exercise a little patience and avoid being too aggressive or pressing issues that may lead to confrontations. An afflicted Mars suggests that the potential exists for matters to escalate rapidly, possibly resulting in accidents or even violence if tempers are allowed to flare. Fortunately, later on the same day, Venus, planet of relationships and diplomacy, makes a trine to peace-loving Neptune, creating a much calmer, more sentimental atmosphere - excellent for watching a weepy movie or ending a date on the right romantic note.

16 November - 16 December
AUTUMN-WINTER DARK & NEW MOON
The next New Moon in Scorpio is at 19.14 on Monday the 16th of November. According to the Moonwise Calendar the lunar period between this New Moon and that of the New Moon at 12.02 on the 16^th of December is considered to be ruled by the Yew tree and was known to the Anglo Saxons as Aerguili that is, the Before-Yule (or Xmas) Moon. The lunar period following this is known as the Birch Moon. We will deal with that next month when we discuss the winter solstice. At this time, the Moon will be square to both Jupiter and Neptune, suggesting a practical, no-nonsense approach to beginning new projects. The Moon will also trine Uranus on this day, which promises to bring surprise coincidences, sudden but positive shifts, flashes of inspiration and chance meetings with helpful females on this day.

Planetary Events, Stellar Phases & Energy Shifts 

Continuing on from last month, Venus as the morning star will still be visible for a brief period at dawn, but is slowly being engulfed by the bright rays of the rising sun as it moves towards what is known as an inferior conjunction with the sun in early January 2010. Last month she made a conjunction with Saturn in Virgo, the zodiac sign most associated with agricultural and fertility goddesses. During October, Saturn was visible also in the early morning skies, appearing just before dawn, fresh from what the ancients would consider to be a tour of the Underworld. As I mentioned in my last column, Saturn changed signs on the 29^th of October, after a two year stay in the sign of Virgo. It is worth mentioning that Venus and Saturn have an ancient affiliation, given that Venus rules Libra, the constellation in which Saturn is exalted. During its stay in the constellation of the Scales, we may see themes concerning political justice and social equality emerging on the world stage, especially in those countries and regions ruled by Capricorn, Taurus or Libra, such as Australia (Sun in Capricorn), China (Sun in Libra), the European Union (Sun in Capricorn), Israel (Sun in Taurus), Germany (Capricorn), the United Kingdom (Sun in Capricorn) and Saudi Arabia (Sun in Capricorn.)*

Jupiter, which last month resumed forward direction, has been brightly lighting up our evening skies just after sunset. Soon it will be the time for it’s descent into the Underworld, as it sinks gradually lower in the western skies until late January 2010 when it will finally disappear from view. Late last month, around the 16^th and 27^th of October, the waxing Moon could be seen very close to Jupiter as it passed through the sidereal constellation of Capricorn (Aquarius in the western astrological zodiac.)

Mars will be in the astrological constellation of Leo all month, where its fiery energy serves to give us all extra physical vitality and get-up-and go. In visual terms, Mars can be seen moving towards its highest possible position in the skies just before dawn. However, the red planet will fall short of a full culmination, possibly because it is due to retrograde in December. Bernadette Brady says that the Babylonians called this a ‘Nibiru’ Mars and suggests that astrologically this means that early November will not be the best time to try and finish off anything.  Nibiru was a Babylonian deity associated with Marduk, who was considered to be king of the gods. Jupiter was considered to be the star of Marduk and some scholars think that Nibiru may be another name for certain appearances of Jupiter. In some astrological texts, Nibiru is referred to as a crossing or turning point in the sky, rather like a crossroads.^[1]   

5 November
NEPTUNE STATIONS IN AQUARIUS
Neptune,  planet  of divine inspiration, dreams, and illusions, ends its retrograde motion on the 5^th of November, which is a mixed blessing. Some people will feel their dreamier, softer, more imaginative side return, which is extremely useful to creative people, especially music composers, photographers, and filmmakers. Others who stand to benefit are mediums and spiritually-oriented individuals – Neptune’s vibrations are great for meditation and vision-quests of all kinds. However, Neptune’s diffuse energy can also confuse and tire some people because of its ability to dilute and disperse, so if you do feel more tired or less functional, it may be a good idea to re-introduce structuring tools such as diaries, calendar reminders and planners to avoid feeling as though you have achieved nothing by month’s end. 

8 November
VENUS ENTERS SCORPIO
8 Nov - 1 Dec 2009
On the 8th of November, Venus will join the Sun in sultry Scorpio, from where she is sure to raise temperatures and give those ruled by Venus (Sun in Taurus or Libra or either of these signs rising) a boost in magnetism and mysterious allure. Between now and the 1st of December, expect relationships to be more passionate and dramatic than usual. This is also a time when singletons are more likely to meet tall, dark and enigmatic strangers who push all their pleasure buttons. Be warned though, he may not be entirely what he seems...Scorpio can also bring out people's more ruthless or morally questionable sides, so any financial transactions made now, especially relating to loans or inheritances or large corporations, should be scrupulously checked and conducted with the utmost integrity to avoid scandal or possible future retribution, additional traits of this complicated sign.

10 November
SUN IN SCORPIO SQUARE JUPITER in AQUARIUS
10 Nov 2009
Around the 10^th of November, Jupiter and the Sun will form a square aspect, which may lead to over-confidence or temporary haughtiness. Try not to be too much of a know-it-all around this time or someone will very happily burst your balloon. The days preceding and following this one are not days to take on heaps of new work or overload your schedule ambitiously because even though you may feel able to handle the extra pressure, more than likely you are more than likely being unrealistic about how much you can accomplish during the time or cost-frames agreed now. This is also not a good day to argue with a superior over who is right because more than likely it will turn out that despite a strong conviction that your life depends on winning the point, a few days later you may not feel quite so strongly about the matter or discover that actually you were wrong. Alternatively, you could encounter very preachy or patronising male figures on this day. 

15 November
SATURN in LIBRA SQUARE PLUTO in CAPRICORN
Relationships with superiors or parents may take a it of a knock on this day as Saturn, planet of duty and responsibility, newly situated in the relationship-oriented sign of Libra, encounters the rather unforgiving and harsh combination of the planet Pluto in severe Capricorn. Those older or in positions of responsibility may be very quick to remind you of your obligations now, especially if they feel that you have been neglecting these of late. This is not a day to get on the wrong side of a boss or the law - you may be surprised at how unwilling those in charge will be to allow you any wiggle room or let you off lightly. The best thing to do if you are caught out committing any acts of wrongdoing is to admit your transgression and be fully prepared to face up to any consequences that may arise from your actions. That way, your situation is more likely to be looked upon kindly. However, try shirking or doing anything untoward at this time, and you may be surprised at how quickly you are found out and how unsympathetic those who find out can be. This is a day of rude awakenings and harsh realities unless you are realistic and act with honesty & integrity where possible, and treat others fairly. Justice is blind and as such her judgements can seem very unsympathetic on an emotional level.

SUN in SCORPIO SQUARE NEPTUNE in AQUARIUS
On the same day as the above difficult aspect, we have a challenging square taking place between the Sun and Neptune. Once again, we are being asked to avoid unrealistic estimations of our own or others' abilities, and to avoid letting ourselves or others down through overconfidence or escapist tendencies. This is not the day to be a flake and fail to turn up for any important meeting - decisions will definitely not go in your favour if you don't live up to your responsibilities. Avoid self-deception and do not necessarily take others at face value right now, especially if they are using flattery to disarm you - your ego may be a tad susceptible right now...If people or situations appear to be too good to be true right now, chances are that they probably are not what they seem. Delay making any life-changing decisions on this day if at all possible, as well as anyone offering quick fixes to tricky problems. Instead, use the seductive facet of this aspect to add a touch of glamour to social proceedings or spice things up with a partner. Or go and watch or a movie or attend a photography exhibition - these are much more positive ways of channelling what could otherwise be quite a mischievous astrological combination. 

16 November
MERCURY INGRESS INTO SAGITTARIUS
Adding to the jubilant and upbeat atmosphere of the Sun’s entry into party-loving Sagittarius on the 22^nd of November will be Mercury, which is due to enter the same sign of Sagittarius, near to the New Moon on the 16^th of November. The combination of these two proactive and dynamic planets in optimistic Sagittarius is excellent for plans or projects relating to teaching, studying, writing, and publishing as well as for foreign travel and relations.

22 November
SUN ENTERS SAGITTARIUS
22 Nov  - 21 Dec 2009
Today the Sun changes signs, gliding from serious Scorpio into playful Sagittarius – and the Christmas party season can now officially begin!  From this date, the general mood should become lighter and more high-spirited. All those Goth-types will disappear back into their coffins and the die-hard party-animals will once again come out to play. Under this influence, people tend to be more optimistic, adventurous, open and sociable. Expect a few more invitations to the pub at lunchtime and the likelihood of sharing a few laughs around the water cooler. You may feel more buoyant and enthusiastic than you have for a while - make the most of this positive, fun-filled time because, after this month, the sun moves into the most wintry sign of all – Capricorn – and things will get a touch more sombre again. This period is also perfect for considering the bigger picture – with New Year’s resolutions just around the corner, you may want to ask yourself what would gives your life more meaning, what do you believe in and how could you expand your horizons a little more? Areas highlighted now include higher education, religious institutions, foreign travel, publishing, the law, and most sports.

23 November
VENUS in SCORPIO SQUARE NEPTUNE in AQUARIUS
A tense aspect between the Queen of Hearts, Venus, and Neptune, the master of deception, may add up to some form of disappointment relating to love or money. Not a good idea to surprise a mysterious lover - you may get a bit of an unpleasant shock when you see what he does when he is not with you...On the other hand, don't be too trusting of any investment advice given to you by a third party, or rely on the rumour mill to make some dubious insider trades - it may all turn out to be smoke and mirrors, leaving you quite a bit less well off than before you made the trade.  Used well, this aspect could also lead to an important breakthrough during therapy or a healing treatment, but it will probably come at a price. The acquisition of profound esoteric knowledge is also a possibility but will involve effort and focus on your part, and possibly some form of personal sacrifice.

29 November
MERCURY in SAGITTARIUS SEXTILE JUPITER in AQUARIUS
A positive sextile aspect between Mercury and Jupiter on the 29^th should lead to a very creative, chatty and productive day when plans for expansion get a boost. ‘Think big’ is the motto for this day. This transit favours any project or decision that requires clear, quick and expansive thinking. You are particularly alert and mentally agile and are easily able to grasp the big picture in any discussion or situation. Business deals, written projects, strategic plans or activities revolving around study and teaching should benefit from this window of opportunity. It is important that you make the most of these energies and not let the chance to clearly express yourself slip through your fingers. Make the most of a period of good judgement and positive thinking to make things happen. However, during the rest of the month, it may be wise to avoid wearing rose-tinted specs, given Jupiter’s close proximity to dreamy and sometimes deceptive and unrealistic Neptune all month.