December-January 2009/2010
Over the festive season we are due to
experience two eclipses in the Cancer-Capricorn axis, which will take place a
little earlier than last year. This is because the nodal axis along which
eclipses occur, moves in the opposite direction through the zodiac to the planets.
The first in the series is a partial lunar eclipse at 10 degrees of
Cancer, which takes place at around 19h15
GMT on the 31st of December 2009.
This eclipse occurs at the time of the
Full Moon and in the sign ruled by the
Moon, so lunar energy
will therefore be extremely powerful at
this time. The Moon
rules growth
and generation, natural and bodily
cycles, bodies of water, seaside towns, motherhood, childhood,
the feminine, intuitive ability
and, to use a Chinese expression, tends to be more yin
in nature.
To balance things out, a New Moon
annular solar
eclipse will then follow on the 15th of January at around 15h07
GMT. This time, it is the masculine,
yang energies that will be strongest. Capricorn is an earth sign associated with
conservatism, tradition, patriarchal duties and structures, material gain and
achievement through hard work. The Sun, which is also associated with more
traditionally masculine qualities, being in Caprciorn, themes are likely to revolve around
fathers
and authority figures, governments and infra-structure, large institutions such
as banks, as well as positions of responsibility.
According to Bernadette Brady, this eclipse
pairing
belongs to the 12 North Saros series, which began in 1901. The 12 North eclipse
'family' is characterised by sudden offers of advancement, as well as situations
that involve unexpected commitments or added responsibilities being thrust upon
one. These may come about as a result of the resignation or retirement
of a superior or because of unforeseen circumstances, such as illness or death. It
seems that, whilst initially disconcerting, if borne well, these new
responsibilities will result in a sense of accomplishment and a boost in self-esteem and
confidence. One wonders if this could be at all relevant to the upcoming UK
General Elections - could a sudden change of leadership in one of the main
political parties be on the cards?
Astronomically, the solar eclipse will be
visible over Central Africa, including the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda
and Kenya; the Maldives, southern India, Burma, Sri Lanka and China. Around this time the Moon will be
near apogee, that is, at its furthest point from the earth, and therefore will
appear to be relatively small in the sky.
Previous eclipses in this series
during the 20th and 21st centuries occurred in: 1901, 1919, 1937,
1955, 1973, and 1992.
This
summer, we are set to experience not two but three eclipses - two lunar and one
solar. Hold onto your
hats, people - this could be an interesting time! It seems that on a global
level, we need more change than usual. Not only is Pluto in Capricorn causing
major reforms in the banking and political systems worldwide, with many
revolutions against unfair elections and coups by dictators popping up, such as
the current situation in Iran. In Britain, the government is finding out that noone can escape Pluto's laser-sharp eye for hidden secrets and
nose for double
standards, such as those MPs found fiddling their expenses. Touring the sign of
thrifty and responsible Capricorn, it is unlikely that anyone not living up to
their responsibilities or spending public money in the most efficient way
possible will be spared Pluto's ruthless scrutiny. All systems are now up for
review and those found lacking will have to be rebuilt from the foundations
upward. Pluto also has a funny way of making repressed or suppressed scandal
surface - noone with skeletons in the closet is exempt so get ready to clean up
your act or do some 'fessing up over the next few years.
It is therefore fitting
that the first event of the season, a lunar eclipse, falls in the sign of
Capricorn. During the day prior to the eclipse, the Moon will make contact with
Pluto, currently at about 2 degrees of Capricorn, before moving into a positive
trine aspect with Saturn, the planetary ruler of Capricorn and current Lord of
Pluto, given the planetoid's sign placing. Symbolically, this could be seen as
the Moon taking the energy of Pluto to its sign ruler, Saturn in a positive and
constructive way. At the same time, the sun will also be making a friendly 60
degree angle to Saturn from the opposite side of the zodiac wheel. So it seems
that the energy of Saturn is somehow bound up in the mood and tone of this
eclipse. At this time, Saturn is touring the earthy but exacting sign of Virgo
which rules gardening, agriculture, health, hygiene, communication (especially
writing), orderliness, diet and small animals such as pets. From here, Saturn
can offer help with tidying up messy environments, the sorting of information or
objects, the weeding out of unnecessary activities or expenses, and the cleaning
up of dirty habits, food or environments. A perfect example of Saturn in Virgo
at work is the current health restrictions and hygiene regulations being
enforced in public places to try and contain pandemic outbreaks such as swine
flu. If everyone stuck to the rules, used the alcohol gel and acted responsibly
if they thought they might have the virus, we might be able to halt its spread. So far so good.
Both
Saturn and Pluto are steeped in symbolism concerning death and rebirth, and the
thresholds between different realms of consciousness and being. Before the
discovery of the modern outer planets (Uranus, Neptune and Pluto) Saturn was
considered the remotest
planet in the cosmos and so a ruler of thresholds between the earthly and the
heavenly realms - a gatekeeper on the path of souls as they descended into
earthly incarnation and re-ascended after death. In modern astrology, Pluto is
also mythically associated with the Underworld - the ancient Greek realm
of the dead, although he was also known to occasionally surface from his dark
home to snatch unsuspecting maidens such as Persephone from the earthly realm,
which means he had the ability to inhabit both worlds. Given Persephone's
association with the virginal sign of Virgo, this myth seems especially apt. Pluto is also the only
planet that crosses the ecliptic, it's elliptical orbit taking it in and out of
both Neptune and the Sun's path and so is also what could be called a liminal
'planet'. Both planets therefore symbolise the ability to cross between two
worlds or realms - the old and the new, the living and the dead, the real and
the imaginary. This probably explains their association with limitation, death
and the end of things.
Eclipses
in a way also embrace this symbolism. Occuring on the nodes, the intersection or
crossing points of the ecliptic (or path of the sun) and the path of the moon.
In ancient times, the sun became associated with the realm of spirit, divine
consciousness and the highest aspect of the soul while the moon was considered
queen of the material world (called the sub-lunar sphere) and therefore, the
mistress of nature, the earth and the body. So eclipses are really 'liminal'
events, points in the soli-lunar relationship where the hand of fate and chance
circumstance can intersect with that of human choice and earthly actions...
Given
this, it is
interesting that the first lunar eclipse occurs in the signs of Cancer and
Capricorn - the two signs of the zodiac that the ancient Greeks believed ruled
birth (Cancer, associated with motherhood) and death (Capricorn). In fact some
of the ancient philosophers wrote that these two constellations marked the
entrance to a gateway in the stars through which souls entered and exited into
and out of earthly existence. These signs therefore represent the archetypal
Mother and Father, the beginning and end of all earthly life.
Such
weighty symbolism adds a certain gravitas to these eclipse events, further
adding to their exceptional character. It seems as though the first eclipse,
which takes place on the 7th of July, the anniversary of the London Bombings,
stands to be of unusually important significance, especially to the cardinal
signs of Aries,
Cancer, Libra and Capricorn. If nothing else such symbolism should help us
remember how fragile life is and take a moment during our busy day to spare a
thought for those killed or injured during the brutal terrorist attacks in 2005.
During this eclipse, the Full Moon
in Capricorn will be blacked out by the sun in Cancer, suggesting an
ending of some kind. Perhaps a project or business deal that you were hoping to
'give birth to' will be prematurely 'aborted' due to unforeseen
circumstances. Or a significant female figure could now choose to depart from
the scene, perhaps resigning at work, moving out of your neighbourhood or, more
tragically, leaving the earthly realm to return through the gateway of souls. I
do hope this last possibility doesn't apply to anyone you know but I do have to
state what I see in the symbolism, however dark it is. Cancer & Capricorn also
govern family and duty to parents so expect familial obligations or activity to
increase at this time.
Cancer and Capricorn both rule our roots,
home, and sense of belonging as well as our history, heritage and connections to
the past. It could well be that at this time, a long-buried family secret
bubbles to the surface or a long-lost family member returns to the fold, causing
ripple-effects within the current family set up. The two signs are also
connected to youth and ageing so its possible that these themes might suddenly become
important around the 7th or a month later. How to provide for an ageing
population is certainly on many a government's mind - as more and more people
are expected to live well to over 100, the added strain on the healthcare and
pension systems is an issue that needs to be attended to.
According
to Bernadette Brady, this eclipse forms part of the 11-South Saros
series which is associated with sudden reforms to old or outdated
systems or ways of working that may require finding a new approach
or making some emergency revisions. She adds that any obstacles to
progress could also now be 'violently or tragically removed.' Let's
hope its not the latter! This relates to the influence of Uranus,
Mars & Pluto in the original chart at the 'birth' of the Saros
family on the 14th of June, 1360. At the time of this occultation,
Uranus will have recently begun a retrograde period, retracing its
steps backwards through the late degrees of Pisces and back into the
orb of a challenging square angle to Pluto. This harsh contact
between the two planets reinforces the possibility of drastic
shake-ups or the likelihood of people undergoing sudden or dramatic
changes of heart.
The
second lunar eclipse on the 6th of August
will be in a different set of zodiac signs. With this second event, we return to
the Leo-Aquarius themes of the beginning of the year. Once again, we return to
issues surrounding self-expression and actualisation, individualism and the
tendency or urge to stand out, on one hand, and the desire to fit in, make
friends or stand up for a cause, on the other. As with the solar eclipse, the
emotional themes that you may have been working on during the last six months
will now reverse, so that you get to experience the flip side of the
Leo-Aquarius pole. At this time the influence of the sun will be heightened
because it will be in Leo - the sign in which it feels most 'at home' - its
natural domicile, as the ancients would say. It is therefore likely to exert a
doubly powerful 'blacking out' of the Moon than usual. Solar energy is
traditionally associated with the masculine and active cosmic powers so these
are likely to overrule any less forthright or aggressive influences. Not a good
day to rely on receptivity, habit or gut instinct because these will be
unavailable or temporarily obscured.
Despite the different sign
placement of the moon, this eclipse also falls into the 11-South
Saros family, so expect the themes outlined by Brady to resurface.
If the first set of adjustments didn't do the trick, the rebound
effect may be more drastic this time because of a stronger Uranian
influence (Moon in Aquarius.) It maybe wise to take dramatic steps
the first time round and that way, hopefully avoid any sudden and
possibly nasty surprises.
Both lunar
events occur at Full Moon and in signs traditionally ruled by
Saturn. Full Moons are generally a time when things reach their
greatest influence before beginning to wane, so expect situations to get
either emotionally heated or for personal circumstances to reach a
culminating or ending point. As with the tides, this is when the Moon has the
greatest 'pull' on our emotions, as well as our bodies -
swelling and bleeding tends to worsen during this lunar phase -
something you may want to bear in mind before electing to undergo
surgery or have a boil or abscess lanced, for example. Given that
Capricorn rules the skin, bones and teeth, it might be an idea to
put off a trip the dentist or dermatologist until after the eclipse
has passed and the moon has waned a bit. Themes associated with
Saturn include: steadiness, endurance, persistence, hard work,
personal responsibility, public duty and recognition, seriousness
(sometimes depression at the extreme end of the scale), limitations,
boundaries, restraint, discipline, scientific detachment and
emotional inhibition. Given the link with Pluto and the earlier
positive contacts between the luminaries and Saturn, the more
positive, rather than negative, aspects of these themes are more
likely to manifest.
In
between the double set of lunar
occultations is a
solar
eclipse in Cancer on the 22nd of July. Both the sun and moon will meet at 29
degrees Cancer - on the cusp of the sign of Leo - once again emphasising the
liminal theme of 'betwixt and between'. of At this time, both solar and lunar energy
will be united in attempting to give birth to new ventures, ideas or
circumstances. New people, particularly men, are likely to enter your life
whilst a familiar male figure could now take his leave. Feminine issues around
motherhood, children, the home and domestic life are all up for review now.
The Jupiter-Neptune-Chiron conjunction will
also still be in play, suggesting that big dreams could lead to disappointment,
deceit or the re-opening of childhood wounds. Try to be realistic in your
undertakings with others, and double-check any groups or charities seeking your
funding or involvement - all may not be as it seems.
Astronomically, the solar eclipse will be
visible over India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Bhutan, China and the southern islands of
Japan. At this time the Moon will be in perigee, that is at its closest point to
the earth, and therefore quite large and visible in the sky.
Previous eclipses in this series
during the 20th and 21st centuries occurred in: 1901, 1919, 1937,
1955, 1973, and 1991.
2009 is
unusual astrologically in that there will be five, rather than the usual four,
eclipses this year. Three of these will be lunar events. Given that lunar
eclipses always occur during a Full Moon; and solar eclipses, at the New Moon,
we could say that overall, 2009 looks as though it will be characterised by the
ending of old ways, rather than the beginning of new cycles.
This
theme is also echoed in other key astrological events - the recent ingress
of transiting Pluto into the sign of Capricorn, signalling a time of major
reform to power structures of all kinds, including large corporations and the
banking system; and a slow-moving opposition aspect between Saturn and Uranus,
symbolically bringing to our attention the current tensions in society between
the tendency to cling to the safety of tradition and convention, on the one
hand, vs. the desire for innovation and reform, on the other.
The polarity between old vs new was so brilliantly played out on the world stage
during the US Elections, which occurred on the very day that this opposition was
in exact alignment in the sky. The conservative Republicans, traditionalists and
protectors of the establishment, were represented by the oldest presidential
candidate in history, John McCain (Saturn) whilst the youthful and dashing
Democratic candidate, Barack Obama, talked continually of the need for change
(Uranus.) If Barack's election victory, and the stars are anything to go by, then it would seem that the overall
theme for humanity right now is one of transformation and change for the better.
All
around us are signs that the time has come to put an end to selfish ways of
living. No longer is it acceptable to pursue individual goals at the expense of
the communities in which we live. Individuals are being asked to make more
responsible choices that not only enrich themselves but also benefit the
environment and empower humanity as a whole. Corporations are being asked to
consider the welfare of both their employees and the environment before their
bottom-line - something that would have been unheard of only 20 years ago during
the 'Greed is Good' culture of the 1980s...These themes are also inherent in
the Leo-Aquarius zodiacal axis that will be so active throughout the year. The
first and last eclipses of 2009 occur in these signs, so it is worth bearing
this in mind both in January and August, as well as casting your mind back to
events that happened during August 2008 to
see if there is any thematic connection.
The
January-February 2009 eclipse series kicks off with an
annular solar eclipse in
Aquarius on the 26th, and is followed by a lunar eclipse in Leo, on the 9th of
February. Just prior to the solar eclipse, both the Moon and the Sun will make a
conjunction with Jupiter, the Great Benefic, which will either mitigate
any negative consequences that arise during the period of the eclipse, or serve
to amplify the energy of the eclipse. On the day of the solar eclipse, a stellium of planets
in Capricorn and Aquarius will be constellating around the Sun and Moon, adding extra
power to the sign and house in which the event takes place. Mars and Mercury,
both in the sign of Capricorn, will be within a 10 degree orb of Jupiter, who
will in turn, be separated by only 2 degrees from the Sun and Moon on the 26th.
Nearby, and also in the sign of Aquarius, will be Neptune and Chiron - both
slightly ahead of the eclipse, at 20 and 23 degrees.
In traditional astrology, the Sun, as the
natural ruler of Leo, is in it's detriment in the opposite zodiac sign of
Aquarius - the constellation in which the solar eclipse is taking place. At the
time of the eclipse, the dark New Moon will also be blocking out the Sun's light, so
metaphorically-speaking, the eclipse may represent an inflated ego being brought
back to Moon through a well-intentioned lightning bolt of reality. With a stellium of
planets flanking the eclipse in Capricorn and Aquarius, Saturnine
energy (Saturn co-rules Capricorn and Aquarius in
ancient astrology) will be strong right now, emphasising cool restraint and
objectivity over passionate enthusiasm and child-like exuberance.
Saturn rules duty and personal honour, two qualities that are now
being emphasised by the stellium and the eclipse. The modern ruler
of Aquarius, Uranus, is symbolised by the slogan of the French Revolution,
"Liberty, Equality, Fraternity". It is no coincidence that the planet Uranus was
discovered at the time of this important historical event.
Although Mars and Mercury will not be in
strict technical orb of a conjunction with the eclipse, both the luminaries will
have made contact with them prior to the event - the Moon, on around the 24th of
January and the Sun, with Mars, around the 21st of December and again, a month later, on the 21st of January.
This means that, in the days leading up to
the eclipse, the Moon, which moves faster in the sky, will have made a
conjunction with Mars, then Mercury and finally Jupiter before its makes its
mysterium coniunctionis with the Sun at the time of the solar eclipse.
In horary astrology, the Moon is said to carry the light of whatever planet it
has recently made contact with, taking it to the next planet it encounters. In
this case, the Moon is bringing the light of Jupiter to the Sun, before
extinguishing its own light (darkness of the new Moon) and then blotting out
that of the Sun itself during the eclipse. The words of TS Eliot's poem, The
Hollow Men spring to mind here - "This is the way the world ends, not with a
bang but a whimper." The Moon starts out very strongly with a lot of positive
energy from Jupiter. However, it then seems unable to sustain this energy and
burns itself out as it becomes darker and darker, entering the shadow of the Sun
and simultaneously, blotting out the light of the Sun. The eclipse, in contrast to the
brightness of the encounters with Jupiter, appear hollow and dark - mere shadows
of what had just occurred:
Once again, quoting Eliot:
"Between the conception
And the creation
Between the emotion
And the response
Falls the Shadow
Life is very long
Between the desire
And the spasm
Between the potency
And the existence
Between the essence
And the descent
Falls the Shadow"
Eliot's poem strangely echoes the energy of this eclipse - a sort of
extinguishing of light and energy into something cold, formless and dark - a
time of shadows... Interestingly, neither the Sun nor the Moon at the time of
the eclipse is making any aspect to other planets, making the event almost
like a void Moon. And, as we know from horary astrology, void Moons are not good
times to start new things. In fact, the only aspect that the Sun and Moon make
after the eclipse is a very weak semi-sextile angle to Venus and Uranus, and
this only reaches exactitude the next day - the 27th of January. This
slightly irritating angle is likely to bring about mild feelings of confusion
and restlessness or slightly erratic behaviour, surprises and reversals in
creative pursuits or in relation to money or love. On a purely mundane level, it
may indicate unexpected or unwanted emotional scenes occurring at social events,
such as perhaps running into an ex at a party. It can also indicate the
possibility of someone making improper suggestions about investments or
relationships, or perhaps someone conveying information or showing off about an
artwork, object of beauty or talent in a manner that smacks of poor taste or
lack of tact. Bernadette Brady says that this eclipse series is considered
gentle overall and suggests that, as a result, individuals can have faith that
whatever arises will be in their best interests and so a "go with the flow"
attitude is probably the best way to handle events at this time.
Given this decidedly uneventful eclipse, I
suggest that people take time out to think about any changes they would like to
make to their lives that involves contributing to society, or has humanitarian
overtones since these are themes that will be highlighted at this time. Areas
that might be brought into focus include: inventions that help a cause, new
sustainable or green technology, gaining membership of a group or society,
friendships, the internet, scientific endeavours.
During the lunar eclipse on the 9th, the Sun
will only be making one other angle - a quincunx (150 degree) or inconjunct aspect to Saturn in
Virgo, which is currently in opposition to Uranus. This aspect calls for the
readjustment of personal priorities and the need to reassess old structures in
your life to see if they still provide healthy systems through which you can go
about expressing yourself or attaining personal goals, or whether they have
become outdated and now hold you back or cramp your style. If change or reform
is required, make sure you attend to the details before acting - otherwise you
may have to come back and fine tune again at a later stage, or possibly face
criticism for not being thorough enough to check the small print.
The eclipsed Moon is equally inactive and
mirrors the angles of the Sun. Instead of making a quincunx to Saturn, it makes
one to Uranus - the other half of the Saturn-Uranus opposition. This angle calls
for emotional readjustment, possibly due to receiving a mild shock of some kind,
or as a result of receiving new information which changes how you perceive
someone or a particular personal circumstance.
According to Brady, this eclipse pair forms
part of what she calls the 11 North Saros Series. This eclipse family is
associated with the switching of group affiliations, possibly as a result of
travel or a change of heart brought about by encounters with new ideas. A break
with old structures is considered to be a positive thing, in the interests of
growth and is likely produce positive outcomes. She also hints at the
possibility of sudden realisations that lead to greater commitments within
relationships, so you could witness a turnaround in those people who have been
holding back from taking the plunge up till now. Elopements, sudden engagements,
or friends suddenly announcing a pregnancy or decision to move in together are
all likely between now and the 9th of March...
Astronomically, the solar eclipse will
be visible over southern Africa, south-eastern India, Australia and
Antarctica. It is due to pass directly through the Sundra Straits between
Sumatra and Java and right through the path of the volcanic island of Krakataua.
Given the recent research which links lunar activity with volcanic eruptions,
hopefully this eclipse is not a bad omen signalling another cataclysm. A minor
eruption occurred here in April 2008 and since then, scientists monitoring the
area have warned people not to go within 3km of it...
Previous eclipses in this series
during the 20th and 21st centuries occurred in: 1901, 1919, 1937,
1955, 1973, and 1992.
According to Bernadette Brady,
this eclipses belong to the 11 North and 11 South Saros series,
which began in 1900. This eclipse 'family' is characterised by the
departure of individuals from a familiar group or affiliation,
either through a decision to travel or because of a change in
ideology or viewpoint. One wonders if in the UK, this will translate
into certain politicians defecting to a rival party, or whether
we'll see any more bank bosses resigning as a result of cosmic
goings-on. Brady suggests that this move will produce positive
outcomes for all concerned. Overall, she characterises this eclipse
as 'gentle' and advises that individuals trust that whatever they
decide to do will have a positive outcome. The 11 North series is
also associated with sudden decisions to make relationship
commitments, so marriage proposals could be on the cards for some...
Unlike previous years, the
second eclipse season for 2008 will take place in August and not
September. Just like in February, the solar and lunar eclipses will
fall in the
Leo-Aquarius axis of zodiac signs and so the theme of self-actualisation and
individuation continues...
As Bernadette Brady has made
clear in her work in this area, every year there are two eclipse
seasons, one of which originates from the North Pole; and the
other, from the South Pole. The eclipse series active in August originated at the South Pole (versus the
eclipse earlier in the year that originates at the North Pole) and
so forms part of what she has named the 10 South Series or eclipse
family. Brady associates this particular Saros cycle with the theme
of breaking out of hopeless or negative situations where there is no
room to manoeuvre or negotiate. She also suggests that in
circumstances where people are worried about something, they might
find that the problem suddenly clears up or a solution appears
miraculously - a gift from the Universe that she says should be taken up without
hesitation.
Given that so many of us are
finding global circumstances so gloomy, it is likely that money
worries may be top of your list, so this could be good news!
However, eclipses are always unpredictable and so I would advise
people to remember the phrase: 'Be careful what you wish for because
it could come true!' Only, with eclipses - not always in the way you
expect it to...
Eclipses occur when the path
of the Moon and that of the Sun cross. These happen at points on the
Moon's axis known as Nodes. Every year, the Sun will first cross the
Moon's path at the North Node and then, six months later, at the
South Node.
This particular set
of eclipses occur at the South Node of the Moon's axis and could be
interpreted as less about us making conscious decisions to move
towards our true purpose in life, and more about fate stepping in to
get us out of ruts. In a natal chart, the South Node is considered
to be an indicator of our comfort zone - where we feel confident and can therefore get stuck. Evolutionary astrologers
might say that this is where our natural gifts and talents lie but
also what we have already learnt or experienced in previous lives.
To keep in this 'safe' or familiar zone is not to grow or to be
challenged or stretched. 'Better the Devil you know than the one you
don't' could be the motto of someone who is stuck in a negative but
familiar South Node mode of being.
The North Node, on the other
hand is really about our life's purpose. Very often this is the area
of our lives where we feel least experienced or familiar. However,
it is usually the very place that we need to focus on in order to
learn new life lessons, have new life experiences and develop fresh
skills. In Vedic or Indian astrology, the Nodes are very much associated
with karma and destiny. Evolutionary astrologers such as Jan Spiller
suggest that the way to overcome any negative karma and fulfil your
destiny is to follow the promptings of the North Node. Often this
can be a daunting prospect. However, in my experience, as soon as
you make a conscious decision to 'Feel the fear and do it anyway',
and set out on a North Node adventure, guidance and unseen
opportunities appear to come out of nowhere and work behind the
scenes to aid you in fulfilling your intentions.
Of course, occasionally we
can get stuck in a rut and then become unwilling to change or
move on. This is where eclipses can come in and boot you out of
'pause mode' and get you back into action. And here we get back to the
topic at hand: I suspect that South Series eclipses may be about
just that - clearing out karma and giving you the kick in the
rear-end that you need to let go of situations or circumstances that
are stunting your growth and get you back on track and moving in the direction of
fulfilling your real life's purpose.
Going back to the 10 South
Series eclipse
themes I mentioned earlier, it seems vital at this point that you
feel in control of your life and not at the mercy of somebody else.
This is especially true when it comes to situations or relationships
that affect your ability to be yourself, to feel comfortable in your
own skin and in the environment in which you find yourself. If you
constantly feel that you have to defend your position, act out of
character or overcompensate for a boss, friend or partner that
doesn't accept you the way you are, then it may be time to move on.
The August eclipses could be the catalyst that aids you, directly or indirectly,
in finding a better situation where you don't feel like a square peg in
a round hole.
Driving home this message
from another quarter will be the asteroid Chiron, which conjuncts the
Moon's North Node between the 1st and the 10th of August, around the
time of the solar eclipse. Chiron is the planet of the wounded
teacher or healer and suggests that you could overcome your deepest
pains (especially long-held childhood hurts) and in the process,
learn to help others with a similar problem or discover your true
passion or life's work. The best way to sum up the energy of Chiron
is this saying from Richard Bach: "You teach best what you most need
to learn."
Because Chiron is working so
closely with the North Node at this time (and therefore in
opposition to the Sun-Moon eclipse) I suspect that these eclipses may well
bring with them a message
about
your soul's mission or spiritual purpose in life. Destiny may be about to deliver you
a
wake-up call. The message may come in the form of a person that you
meet who becomes a spiritual mentor or some wise words from a loved
one. It will definitely appear as something 'other' than
yourself, given the opposition angle involved which is often
associated with relationship. Keep an open heart and mind, watch out for
synchronicities or repetitions of particular words, symbols or
situations - especially things that come in threes (Angela McGerr
believes that this is the language of angels). Despite the
possibility of emotional pain, this is a time when you can free
yourself of psychological and spiritual baggage and become more in
tune with the spiritual significance of your role on Moon -
your higher purpose.
Around the 16th of August, a
lunar eclipse in Leo-Aquarius will take place. The Full Moon will be
within 1 degree of the North Node, so if you missed the signs during
the solar eclipse, they will now be flashing red lights at you.
Emotionally, things could really come to a head now as far as how
you feel you want to contribute to the world as an individual, or
bring equality back to a situation that has swung too far over in
one direction.
The proximity of the Moon to the
North Node during this eclipse seems to signal that you should
listen to any strong emotions or inner promptings that arise now - they could be messages from your spirit guide or
higher self which provide you with the answers you need. Here you
are being advised to listen to the wisdom of the heart and to follow
the signs shown out in the world as they point you in a new
direction.
Astronomically, this eclipse will
be visible over Canada, Greenland and Siberia. This is because this
Saros Series began on March the 10th in 1179 and has been moving
slowly northward with each passing year.
Previous eclipses in this series
during the 20th and 21st centuries occurred in: 1900, 1918, 1936,
1954, 1972, 1990.
This
year, we will experience a change in eclipse family. The Nodes of the Moon, the
intersection points between the paths of the Sun and the Moon where eclipses
occur, are gradually moving out of Pisces-Virgo and into Leo and Aquarius. This
is because the Nodes precess i.e. move backwards through the zodiac, unlike the
planets that appear to move in an anti-clockwise direction around the Moon.
Expect a
different overall mood to these events then - Leo and Aquarius are fire and air
signs, so the unpredictability and excitement factor goes up in intensity, as
does the likelihood of the dramatic or the unexpected. Pisces-Virgo, by comparison,
were a tad more sedate, being affiliated to the slightly less volatile elements,
Moon and water.
Likely Leo-Aquarius
themes prevalent during these eclipses include how one characterises one's self
as an individual - are you someone who defines your identity through creative
self-expression, personal praise or recognition (Leo)? Or are you someone who
sees yourself in terms of what group you belong to, how much you know, how
different you are to everyone else or what you contribute to society
(Aquarius)?
Other key words that help explain the differences and similarities
between the two signs include: Heart vs mind, involvement vs detachment,
self-awareness vs. knowledge of the world, self vs. others, subjectivity vs.
objectivity, acceptance vs. doing the big thing, pride vs. freedom. You get the
picture!
Both signs are fixed,
which means that stubbornness is a common problem, as is having difficulty
adjusting to change (though this may be less easy to spot in an Aquarian than a
Leo). Given that eclipses epitomise change with a capital C, you can see why an
eclipse in these signs is something of a contradiction in terms.
Speaking
of contradictions, the transition of the nodes into new signs will take some
time to complete, so this particular set of eclipses forms a kind of hybrid
between the two - the solar eclipse having made the cross-over whilst the
lunar eclipse still lags behind a bit, taking place along the Pisces-Virgo axis.
Another quirky factoid to be
aware of is that the eclipses will be reversed in terms of order - instead of a
lunar eclipse first, followed by a solar eclipse, we will begin the year with an
annular solar eclipse in Aquarius on the 7th of February. This is due to occur
over the Antarctic in the Southern Hemisphere, so will not be visible to many
people in the world. However, partial sightings are possible from New Zealand,
south-eastern Australia and southern Polynesia.
On the same day, Mercury
will be in conjunction with (right next to) the Sun and Moon, also in Aquarius.
The ruler of Aquarius (and therefore, also of the Sun at the time of the
eclipse) is Uranus, planet of shocks and surprises, which will also be in a
friendly aspect with Venus, planet of love and money.
My overall feeling is
that this eclipse may be more eventful than previous years in an obvious sort of
way - Mercury and Uranus are both planets that manifest in very dramatic modes because
they both rule self-expression, albeit in different ways. Mercury is more
changeable and fickle, tricksy, quick-witted and silver-tongued whilst Uranus is
less predictable, more forthright and comes in flashes of insight or bursts of
speech or action that are exciting but volatile and often result in sudden
endings or about-faces.
Mercury also rules
communications of all forms, including the equipment involved, such as
telephones and satellites. Perhaps this solar eclipse will allow that which has
been repressed or avoided, put in the shadows and out of direct Sunlight, to
emerge and be spoken out loud? I expect that people will be more willing to tell
others how they feel and will also be more likely to make decisions based on
their intuition or gut instincts now.
Our most important
influence at this time, though, will be Uranus. Uranus rules rebellion,
individuality and social reform and doesn't pull any punches in the tact
department. It is this Uranian energy, which causes people to speak out against
injustice and infuses people with inspiration, brilliance or genius, which will
be most noticeable during this eclipse. Fortunately, Venus, planet of tact and
diplomacy, will also be on hand to ensure that there are no show-downs or ugly
confrontations, so all those good intentions can be implemented practically and
couched in terms that will be less offensive and more effective politically. The
two planets together could also signify monetary gifts, sudden windfalls or
unexpected but positive twists in romantic situations. Great news for
Valentine's Day!
Following close behind
this is a total lunar eclipse, on February the 21st. This event will be
visible from the Americas, Europe and most of Africa. Wolfgang Held says that
this eclipse could be considered to be one of the most impressive during decade
because an hour before the Moon moves into the Moon's shadow just after
midnight, it will be situated directly below Regulus, the main star of the Leo
constellation. So, if you can, try and make the time to watch it.
At this time, as with all
lunar eclipses, the Sun and the Moon will be in opposite parts of the sky and so
their energies will not be working harmoniously. This makes it an event that is
more likely to be jarring or difficult to integrate into your life than a solar
eclipse, where reason and emotion are working hand-in-hand. Anthropologist and
diviner, Dennis Tedlock, who is a specialist in the field of Mayan culture and
linguistics, has spoken of how the Mayans believed that eclipses should never be
viewed directly. Instead they taught that the safest way to glimpse such
occultations was to use pools of water as mirrors. Presumably, such precautions
were taken to avoid being bewitched or harmed by the luminary spirits!
Unlike the previous
eclipse, the Sun will be darkening the Moon, which means that solar masculine,
yang, energy will predominate over feminine, yin energy - the opposite of what
was happening during the solar eclipse.
According to Australian astrologer, Bernadette Brady, solar eclipses
are more likely to be external
rather than internal events i.e. situations that happen to you or around you as
opposed to epiphanies or emotional breakthroughs.
As mentioned previously, this eclipse
will occur in a different set of signs - Pisces-Virgo.
Interestingly, on the
same day, several planets will congregate together in what astrologers call a
stellium, near the Sun, which will be in the early degrees of Pisces. However,
all the other planets in the stellium, which include Venus, Mercury, Chiron and
Neptune (which is, incidentally, the ruler of Pisces) will be in the
constellation of Aquarius. On the other side of the opposition, close to
the Moon, the planet Saturn will be in the early degrees of Virgo.
With so many planets in
Aquarius, and the other half of the eclipse twin-set happening in Aquarius-Leo,
this in-between lunar eclipse clearly signals the end of a chapter, one that
will hopefully see you wrapping up or integrating any outstanding issues related
to health (both spiritual and physical), spirituality (both philosophical
speculation and practised ritual), sacrifice vs. service and
discrimination/discernment vs. going with the flow/merging with something larger
than yourself. Having learnt a few lessons over the last 4 years or so,
hopefully you will feel ready (like the planets in the stellium) to apply them
in your life, give you a sense of meaning or make you feel more confident about
who you are and what you are here to contribute to society.
This eclipse series
belongs to what Bernadette Brady calls the 10 North family of Saros cycles. She
associates this set of eclipses with limitations, obstacles and frustrations
which may show up in the form of bad news, tricky paperwork or the
mischief/difficulties surrounding a young person. It is interesting to note that
Brady considers this eclipse series to have a strong emphasis on communication,
which echoes the Mercury-Sun-Moon conjunction mentioned earlier. She also
suggests that people may feel physically drained or want to retire a bit from
circulation so that they can take things easy and have some time to process
information or events.
Previous eclipses in this
Saros series that have occurred in the last century took place in 1917, 1935,
1954, 1972, 1990, 2008, 2026, 2044.
For a more detailed
breakdown of what the Solar and Lunar eclipses may have in store for you, please
visit my Astro-Insights page or click on
Horoscopes at the top of this page.
The
eclipse pair occurring in September 2007 will be the mirror
opposites of those that happened in March 2007, with a lunar
eclipse in Pisces, and a solar eclipse in Virgo. On the 28th of
August, the full Moon total eclipse will take place between
07h52 and 13h22 GMT and will be visible to those living in the
US, South America on the evening of the 27th of August; and in
Japan, Australia, New Zealand on the night of the 28th of
August.
During
this event, two planetary oppositions will take place between
Venus and Neptune in Leo and Aquarius; and, between Mercury and
Uranus in Virgo and Pisces respectively. The first aspect could
add a slightly self-indulgent, confusing or deceptive element to
the mix; whilst the second might lead to unexpected or erratic
speech, thoughts or learning behaviour.
Key overall themes could well focus
on the areas of career, children, sport or hobbies, friendships and group memberships. Issues and affairs concerning
women will be emphasised now. Lunar eclipses always occur during
a Full Moon, and so there is likely to be an air of completeness
or wholeness around events at this time, not to mention an added
dollop of emotion or drama - this is the end of a
cycle so it great for wrapping up projects or closing deals.
Later, on the 11th of
September, a partial solar eclipse in Virgo will take place at
12h44 GMT. In astrological terms, this eclipse stands in
opposition to Uranus, which gives the eclipse an even more
unpredictable nature than usual.
Bernadette Brady calls
this the 9 New South Series and claims it is associated with
themes centering around health and loved ones, as well as
paperwork and communication. She also asserts that these
eclipses carry a certain air of fatedness about them.
This eclipse Saros series began on the
19th of July 1917 and will end in August of 3161. Prior to 2007,
eclipses in this cycle have occurred in 1935, 1953, 1971 and
1989.
Interestingly, 1917 was the year that
the freezing of food was introduced. It was also the year that
some very famous politicians were born, including John F.
Kennedy and formerly Indian president, Indira Ghandi.
For more information on
how the September eclipses may affect you astrologically, please
go the
Eclipses and Astrology
page or to the
September Eclipses Overview
page, or go the outlines of the
Lunar
or Solar Eclipse pages.
March 2007
As with March and
October 2006, the eclipse pair occurring in March 2007 fall in
the signs of Virgo and Pisces. Last year we experienced a lunar
eclipse in Pisces and a solar eclipse in Aries. This year
however, the order of the lunar eclipse will be reversed,
occurring in Virgo, with a solar eclipse in Pisces. Unlike the
eclipses of 2006, this year's lunar eclipses will be total, that
is the shadow cast by the Moon onto the Moon will completely
block out the light of the Sun, rather than merely obscuring a
part of it. Of course, because of the physics of our atmosphere,
the Moon is never thrown into total darkness, but instead turns
a reddish-brown colour - the ancients sometimes described it as
'blood on the Moon' and considered it to foretell disaster or
war.
According to Bernadette
Brady, the March 2007 eclipses form part of the 9 New North
family, which began in August 1664. For her, this series is
associated with physical or sporting accidents, great physical
effort, outbreaks of violence or last-minute physical
activities. She suggests partaking in some form of active
pursuit to get rid of pent-up energy, but to do so with caution.
Astronomers suggest that
the best place to view the lunar eclipse will be in either
Europe or Africa. The total eclipse is due to start at 22h44 GMT
(add an hour for winter clock-time in the UK) and end at about
midnight.
For more
information, please go to the
March
2007 Eclipse overview page.
September 2006
The eclipse we will be experiencing on the 22nd
of September 2006 (at 29 degrees Virgo) forms part of the 8 South Saros Series,
which is, in the opinion of Bernadette Brady, “the worst or most difficult
series”. She has characterised the theme of this eclipse family to be about
separation, loss, bodily injury or upheavals…. Grim stuff! However, she also
suggests that this eclipse can be about the act of completing something which
might bring about feelings of sadness as you realise it is time to move on – not
so dramatic but possibly more realistic! The accompanying lunar eclipse in
Pisces on the 7th
of September seems to corroborate this. Pisces is the last sign of the zodiac
and is therefore associated with the final stages of life, attaining a state of
wholeness or merging with the collective. By activating this zodiacal axis, the
eclipses are stressing issues surrounding order and chaos, perfection and
completeness, criticism and compassion, details versus the overview and work
versus spirituality. Both signs emphasise selflessness through service and
sacrifice – something our materialistic and selfish society seems to have
largely forgotten about.
This eclipse is due to take place in the southern hemisphere
over parts of Brazil, West Africa and the Atlantic Ocean, so it might be worth
watching these parts of the world to see if anything major happens. The last
time this eclipse occurred was in September 1988, so it may be interesting to
look back at what happened during that year for clues as to what types of events
may reoccur.
Previous occurrences of this eclipses series include: 30 July
1916, 10 August 1934, 20 August 1952, 31 August 1970, and 11 September 1988.
For more information on
this eclipse, please go to my
September 2006
Eclipse page.
March 2006
Forming part of the 8 North Saros Series, this eclipse is
associated with Uranian flashes of insight and genius, inventiveness and sudden
urges for independence, according to Bernadette Brady.
Previous occurrences of this Saros series include: 3 February
1916, 14 February 1934, 28 February 1952, 7 March 1970, and 18 March 1988
A full-Moon lunar eclipse in exacting and critical Virgo on
the 14th
preceded that of its more illustrious partner, the total solar eclipse in Aries
on the 29th. Falling in opposition to Mercury in Pisces, which was also
retrograde at the time, it signalled a time of miSunderstandings and sharp
emotional exchanges, probably centering around issues of disappointment or
disillusionment with regard to high expectations not being met, health and
work-related matters, and women in particular. As a full Moon, it would have
brought things to a head, closure, culmination or an end. The Moon also made a
dynamic and stimulating aspect to Jupiter, planet of expansion, also retrograde
in Scorpio. Normally quite an extroverted planet, infusing people with
enthusiasm, optimism and an adventurous, happy-go-lucky nature, when retrograde
it tends to make people more thoughtful, introspective and cautious especially
in moral, cultural, educational or religious matters or with regard to travel
plans.
The total solar eclipse in Aries, which occurred on the 29th,
brought to the surface themes surrounding individuality, independence, and a
strong desire for action or new beginnings. Aries is a very wilful and demands
the right to forge ahead, undeterred by the fear of failure or the opinions of
others.
If this is added to the themes that Bernadette Brady sets out
for this eclipse series, it would seem as though we may experience Eureka
moments which might set us off in new directions, or we may a strong urge to
assert our independence within relationships, particularly those in which we
feel we have lost our identity or submerged it temporarily in order to merge
with another.
However, far from being straightforward to interpret, this
eclipse was complicated by the fact that Pluto, planet of transformation, went
retrograde on the same day. Whilst a Sun-Moon eclipse in Aries would usually
signal dynamic change and new starts linked to external events, with Pluto
retrograde some of this energy may have been driven inwards, making changes more
introverted, mysterious or hidden than might otherwise be the case.
Interestingly, Jupiter and Pluto
are
currently in mutual reception, meaning they are in the sign ruled by the other
planet. With both having gone retrograde, this may have cancelled out or muted
their influence somewhat. Having the energy translated into an internal event
would work well with Brady’s idea of flashes of insight or realisation because
these are traditionally inner experiences anyway. Any urges to pull away from
others can also be seen as characteristic of periods of inspiration too – when
overcome with inspiration, most artists or scientists tend to become engrossed
in their work, alienating themselves from daily life and social contact. This
might then result in temporary tension or problems in relationships,
particularly if the partner is in need of or tries to initiate emotional
closeness or contact.
For a closer look at how this eclipse might have affected you
personally, follow this link to the
March 2006 Eclipse page.
October 2005
The eclipses dealt with in the October 2005 article form part
of the
7
South Saros Series. According to astrologer Bernadette Brady, who specialises in
the area of eclipses and predictive astrology, the 7 South Series is associated
with the releasing of immense power, anger and the clearing of obstacles and
blockages.
Previous occurrences of this Saros series include: 10 August
1915, 21 August 1933, 1 September 1951, 11 September 1969 and 23 September 1987.
April 2005
Also the same Libra-Aries axis of eclipses we experienced in
April 2004 (7 North Series).
Bernadette Brady has characterized themes associated with this eclipse family to
be centred on hidden passions, lust, sensuality, sudden sexual urges and
procreative drives. This eclipse is said to have quite a forceful energy and may
catch an individual unawares, especially if they have been repressing intense or
secret passions for many years.
See
Eclipses and History for more information…
Previous occurrences of this series include: 14 February 1915,
24 February 1933, 7 March 1951, 18 March 1969, and 29 March 1987
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