The winds of change blow from the east. The Mind looks to the future, sensing new possibilities, as the ideals shine like stars before dawn, promising a better world. What could go wrong? What are the obstacles facing the path? Hesitation delays the moment of change. But all the issues to be addressed are slowly gathering together by the hour.
On January 30th Mercury is going to turn retrograde at 26° Aquarius. This is the first of the three retrograde periods of the year that are going to trace a great Triangle of Air in the sky. In this article we are going to talk about the stellium (cumulus of planets) that is slowing forming in Aquarius, as well as the role of Mercury Retrograde in activating it.
As we know the Sun just entered Aquarius. And as we have discussed about, the Jupiter Saturn conjunction recently took place in that zodiac sign. This means that at the moment we’re not only having the Sun in Aquarius, but also Saturn and Jupiter.
To which we must now add Mercury as well, for a total of 4 planets. And as if that weren’t enough we’re also going to have Venus in Aquarius, joining the party from February 2nd (the day of Candlemas or Imbolc).
This is technically speaking a big stellium in Aquarius made of 5 planets. Basically half of the planets (5 out of 10) will be in Aquarius. But what’s the meaning of a stellium? How are we going to interpret it? And how does it relate to Mercury retrograde?
I consider myself a free researcher in western spiritual disciplines, in particular Rudolf Steiner’s Anthroposophy and the Neoplatonic Hermetic tradition. I have a three-year training in Astrology at the CIDA delegation of Trieste, the Italian Center for Astrological Disciplines. I graduated in Computer Engineering from the University of Trieste.
Today the Sun enters Aquarius. In silence, the ice becomes transparent and welcomes the rays of the new sun in all its purity. The light returns and the ascent begins again. Gathered in the heart of winter, we guard the seed of our resolutions for the new year.
A few more days and it will be February. The name of this month has a double meaning. On one hand it means “fever”, on the other “purification”. It’s ironic finding the anniversary of one year of covid-19 falling under this month.
Yet, a purification of sort did happen in 2020. The earth deeply regenerated itself and even the ozone hole has closed. Mother Earth showed us that she can make it by herself, that she doesn’t really need us to do her thing. She just expect us to not bother her work too much.
But what about the fever meaning related to this month? Fever was also seen as a form of purification, even if not one of the most pleasant. In fact all the sulphuric forces accumulated through out the year find here a sort of threshold. In the opposite sign of Leo, they burst in a sudden fever and disappear.
Discretion becomes Meditative Power
In our annual journey through the zodiacal virtues given to us by Rudolf Steiner, we find for the Aquarius the virtue of Discretion. There is something elegant in avoiding to reveal too much about ourselves or other people. And as you can see here, we are again asked to step back for a moment in order to live an inner life.
I consider myself a free researcher in western spiritual disciplines, in particular Rudolf Steiner’s Anthroposophy and the Neoplatonic Hermetic tradition. I have a three-year training in Astrology at the CIDA delegation of Trieste, the Italian Center for Astrological Disciplines. I graduated in Computer Engineering from the University of Trieste.
The Sun is lowering more and more on the horizon, while the shadows lengthen on the earth. The Winter Solstice, the time of the year when the Sun seems to stop is approaching. All life follow the light on its journey through the Underworld. And two great planets prepare to shine together as a single star in the zodiac sign of the dawn.
This year had to leave the scene with a grand finale. On December 21st Jupiter and Saturn will conjunct in Aquarius, starting a new cycle in the air signs that will last for about 200 years.
Jupiter and Saturn appearing as a single star on Winter Solstice Sunset Simulation Powered by Stellarium
In this article we are going to talk about the threefold cycle through the Four Elements that these planets make in their journey across the centuries. We are also going to talk about the ending cycle of Earth, which led humanity to materialism, and the upcoming cycle of Air, that is going to bring humanity to live in a world of living images.
But first let’s take a look at Jupiter and Saturn, talking about their entrance in Aquarius and the astral forces that are going to be streaming down from this region of the sky.
Jupiter in Aquarius
On December 19th Jupiter is going to enter Aquarius. This is not unusual, since Jupiter changes sign once a year. In fact in 12 years Jupiter completes a cycle, visiting year after year all the signs of the Zodiac.
So what does Jupiter in Aquarius mean? First and foremost, Jupiter in Aquarius means that it’s no longer going to be in Capricorn. This is particularly important since Capricorn is a sign where Jupiter is very weak or—as we say in astrology—in its fall. Jupiter is the Great Benefic which brings optimism, expansion and growth. Did you see any in this 2020? Exactly.
I consider myself a free researcher in western spiritual disciplines, in particular Rudolf Steiner’s Anthroposophy and the Neoplatonic Hermetic tradition. I have a three-year training in Astrology at the CIDA delegation of Trieste, the Italian Center for Astrological Disciplines. I graduated in Computer Engineering from the University of Trieste.
We are about halfway between the Winter Solstice and the Spring Equinox. The light of the new sun has begun to shine bright, emerging from the darkness of deep winter. And even though the cold season has not ended yet, we are out of its hardest part.
As every main festival celebrating the Wheel of the Year, Imbolc is about light. In this case the light coming back again, getting everything ready for the upcoming spring (actually, for the Celts Imbolc was the first day of the season).
The light of Imbolc is the white light of purification. It dispels the darkness, revitalizing the stagnant energies of the old year. It is a time of renewal—especially physical—which often manifests through colds and flus.
It is no coincidence that this festival falls under the sign of Aquarius. It is the sign of revolution which breaks through old, dysfunctional structures, bringing a new order under the auspices of high ideals such as modernity and progress.
New year resolutions—sown early in the season—find at Imbolc the first opportunity to turn into a clear vision.
I consider myself a free researcher in western spiritual disciplines, in particular Rudolf Steiner’s Anthroposophy and the Neoplatonic Hermetic tradition. I have a three-year training in Astrology at the CIDA delegation of Trieste, the Italian Center for Astrological Disciplines. I graduated in Computer Engineering from the University of Trieste.
Each new moon occurs in darkness—like a seed sprouting underground. The doors of the skies are opened and new astral forces can penetrate into the orbit of the earth. Every month this process happens under the auspices of a zodiac sign, which leaves its mark on those energies.
Let’s take a break from the Cardinal T-square. Yes—it is still there—but the upcoming lunar month seems to detach from its energies. Actually, we should say “from all energies” because the Moon and the Sun (always in conjunction on a New Moon) are not making any aspect. With no other planet. No one.
It’s like a month off, an opportunity to move away from it all—and just breathe. Sometimes January feels like it, right? Everything stands still under a blanket of snow. Nature rests, and it’s time to just observe in silence without acting.
Sabian Symbol @ 9° Aquarius
When I can’t find many clues about a planet or—as in this case—a conjunction I take a look at the Sabian Symbols. Their story is very interesting, so I highly suggest you to check them out. In a nutshell, they are 360 symbols related to each degree of the Zodiac. Modern astrologers often use them as an intuitive tool to think out of the box.
KEYNOTE: The dynamic incorporation of new social values in individuals who exemplify the spiritual potential and greatest significance of these values.
[…] All that is implied here is the vitalization of a powerful symbol, its embodiment in a living reality, i.e. in a person able to fly in consciousness to the highest spiritual realm. The archetype is given living substance and wings. The Image has become a Power.
I really like this symbol. The flag turning into an eagle means—as Rudhyar suggests—that what we usually consider as an ideal symbol must become a living being. The POTUS for example should embody the ideals that US citizens project on him. Ok, I know—please don’t laugh—I’m not saying that Trump is going to become that eagle.
We have already discussed about his inauguration speech. And—let’s face it—he is far from even resemble the ideal POTUS. But in my opinion it’s not important the way he presents himself. What really matters is what he is actually going to do. So, is he really going to make social justice? What do you think? We will see.
Lovers in the Sky
Venus and Mars are in conjunction. This powerful encounter—occurring in the emotional sign of Pisces—is all about love and romance. It tells a struggling story, though. The planets can’t reach each other (separating aspect), as Saturn gets in their way—squaring the conjunction.
It’s almost like the Saturnian energy (could be an authoritarian father, a stifling job, or the lack of money) is preventing the beloved (Venus) to reach the lover (Mars)—who’s leaving the country in search of fortune (he is actually about to change sign).
As you can see Astrology is able to depict in the sky human dramas that are able to inspire us all. Do you feel any connection with it? Let me know in the comments below.
Secrets Revealed
Mercury has reached Pluto. When the planet of communication is in conjunction with the ruler of hidden powers things get very interesting. [ictt-tweet-inline]There can be both whispered secrets and manipulative lies[/ictt-tweet-inline].
From a social perspective—since Pluto represents the financial elite—this can also be the beginning of an interesting dialogue with Trump. Nevertheless, the square with both Jupiter and Uranus do not bode well for the short-term future.
I consider myself a free researcher in western spiritual disciplines, in particular Rudolf Steiner’s Anthroposophy and the Neoplatonic Hermetic tradition. I have a three-year training in Astrology at the CIDA delegation of Trieste, the Italian Center for Astrological Disciplines. I graduated in Computer Engineering from the University of Trieste.
Yesterday, Venus entered Aquarius. This transit is all about Love and Freedom: two topics that I hold dearly, especially when they go hand in hand. There are many ways you can combine these concepts. To name a few: freedom of love, loving someone unconditionally, being free by loving what you do, and so on.
As a gay man, the most important in my life has obviously been freedom of love. As you may know I’m Italian, and my country has approved a law for same-sex civil unions only this year. Alas, we are far behind many European countries when it comes to civil rights for the LGBTQ community. Just consider for example that Spain introduced same sex marriage ten years (!) ago.
We still have much to do to fight homophobia in this country. For most of the people freedom of love comes free—they take it for granted—but for us it still has a price.
For example, in Italy is quite rare to see same-sex couples walking hand in hand on the street—even in big cities. It may seem an insignificant detail, but freedom is also expressed through small, spontaneous gestures. Most of us still feel uncomfortable to do so.
That’s why this law has been a revolution for us, perfectly attuned with the energies of [ictt-tweet-inline]freedom and progress flowing from the Aquarius[/ictt-tweet-inline].
Free Love and Poliamory
Regarding love and progress, have you ever heard of Polyamory? It is the modern reinterpretation of the free love concept of the 60s-70s. According to wikipedia:
Polyamory(from Greek πολύpoly, “many, several”, and Latin amor, “love”) is the practice of, or desire for, intimate relationships where individuals may have more than one partner, with the knowledge and consent of all partners. It has been described as “consensual, ethical, and responsible non-monogamy”.
What do you think about it? Personally I think that the idea behind polyamory is perfectly understandable, so I don’t have any problem with that. Nevertheless, I have to say that in my opinion it requires a high level of personal development—on both sides—to be put it into practice in a honest way.
Let’s face it: [ictt-tweet-inline]people have the tendency to hide their weakness behind high ideals[/ictt-tweet-inline]. Poliamory could just be one of them. And I’m not saying that all people embracing this lifestyle are lying to themselves. I’m saying that sometimes people don’t want to face what’s wrong in their relationship, so they label it in a fancy way pretending that everything’s alright.
So, is monogamy over? I don’t think so. I think we are going towards a motley society made—as a mosaic—by pieces of many colors. But I think Monogamy is more likely going to remain the main one. This because monogamous relationships are already hard—imagine how complex they could be just introducing a third person! You definitely need more than a good reason to do so.
And please don’t think that if you have Venus in Aquarius in your Natal Chart you can’t be monogamous! It just means that you love progress and modernity, and your relationship is going to reflect that, somehow. On top of that, you also need to put in the equation at least your fifth, seventh and eighth house to get the whole picture.
I consider myself a free researcher in western spiritual disciplines, in particular Rudolf Steiner’s Anthroposophy and the Neoplatonic Hermetic tradition. I have a three-year training in Astrology at the CIDA delegation of Trieste, the Italian Center for Astrological Disciplines. I graduated in Computer Engineering from the University of Trieste.
Friendship is a form of love—the most free and lasting, they say. It may have some ups and downs—like most of relationships—but time and distance will never prevail against this precious bond, right?
Well, as I write this sentence my mind is going back to all the friendships that ended in my life for the most different reasons: stupid little fights followed by pride; hurt feelings that you (or they) never wanted to talk about; others that just faded away—swallowed by the abovementioned time and distance (here we go).
Bonds are living creatures. They are just like plants: they may sprout naturally in the beginning, but if you don’t nurture them winter is going to take them away. Nothing thrives in your life if you don’t put some effort into it, andthe same applies to friendship. But shouldn’t it come naturally? Shouldn’t it be something simple?
Personally, I don’t believe people are simple. I believe we are all made of several parts that most of times want different things. So no, to me friendship isn’t simple—as well as any form of love. Sometimes I need someone to open up to, others I just want to hang out and have fun. The truth is we all experience different types and levels of friendship. And it really depends on who we are relating with and what we expect from other people.
Ah! Expectations! You shouldn’t have any, they say. But how can you possibly trust someone without having expectations? I would rather say to not have unrealisticexpectations, and honestly expecting a text reply is not one of them—especially from people who basically live on their phone.
So, what do you expect from your friends? I believe it’s an important thing to figure out.
Friendship according to Astrology
Everybody has their own idea about friendship, and that’s fine. There are indeed many ways to consider it. But now let’s have a closer look to what astrology has to say about this topic. To me, the most interesting aspect of it is that according to astrology the energy of friendship is based on freedom and equality (which fall under the eleventh house, strictly related to the sign of Aquarius).
This literally means that we can’t be friends if we are—somehow—forcing each other; nor if the relationship isn’t based on an equal exchange. And in my opinion, this is also what usually stresses out an actual friendship. Just think about how many times your friends’ expectations went against your personal sense of freedom (and vice versa); or when the relationship is unbalanced because “I’m the one who always has to call”. There can be no friendship without equal exchange.
This exchange can occur on many levels, but we can boil them down to four (the elements):
Physical—Earth Element: “you can count on me”
Emotional—Water Element: “I’m here for you”
Mental—Air Element: “let’s have some fun”
Spiritual—Fire Element: “we can evolve together”
Obviously these levels can intertwine—there is no strict rule. Through your Natal Chart we are also able to see what specific planetary energy is triggered in you when it comes to friendship.
In conclusion, here’s some tips:
Be aware about what you expect from each one of your friends. In other words, pay attention on which level you are living the relationship: physical, emotional, mental and spiritual.
Are they living it on the same level? It can be frustrating if you are trying to confide (water) to a gossip (air), or rely (earth) on a fickle person (air). You both need to be on the same wavelength.
Try to better understand how your friends are limiting your personal sense of freedom. This is perfectly normal to happen, especially in long-lasting friendships. Basically you need to be aware of your friends’ expectations and simply talk about it. Don’t let a simple misunderstanding ruin a special bond.
I consider myself a free researcher in western spiritual disciplines, in particular Rudolf Steiner’s Anthroposophy and the Neoplatonic Hermetic tradition. I have a three-year training in Astrology at the CIDA delegation of Trieste, the Italian Center for Astrological Disciplines. I graduated in Computer Engineering from the University of Trieste.
