Living Skillfully with Vedic Astrology

Venus Opposite Mars, Venus Enters Pisces

2012-01-28T09:30:00.000-08:00

This week Venus will be directly opposite Mars in the Heavens. The exact opposition is Wednesday, Feb. 1. Mars benefits from the influence of the natural benefic Venus: the Mars thirst for Passion, Action, Excitement, Drama, etc. gets a boost. But Mars, as a natural malefic, has a detrimental effect on Venus. The significations of Venus suffer: Compromise, Agreement, Harmony in Relationships, etc. are difficult to achieve during the first part of this week.
Venus enters Pisces Thursday, Feb. 2. While Venus changes signs, and especially while still under the influence of Mars, Venus is weak and vulnerable. But by Friday, Venus is doing much better because now it is in its sign of exaltation. The planet will also have escaped from the detrimental effects of Mars. Venus in the sensitive, hopeful, supportive sign Pisces is more able to manifest its positive traits of Love, Compassion, and Refinement. The downside of Venus in Pisces is Extravagance, Indulgence, Too much Reliance on Hope and Faith.
Venus will be conjunct Uranus in Pisces. Venus joins up with the planet of Unexpected Events, Freedom, Revolution, Inspiration, etc. This combination adds Excitement, but also some Instability, to the significations of Venus. There is potential for Unusual, or Unexpected Events related to Romance, Love Affairs, Compromise and Agreements, and also the Financial Sector, in the latter part of the week and next week. Venus will be exactly conjunct Uranus @ 7 deg. Pisces on Feb. 9.

New Moon, Mars goes Retrograde, Mercury enters Capricorn

2012-01-21T08:59:00.000-08:00

The New Moon will be early Monday, January 23, @ 8 deg. Capricorn. This begins the Hindu lunar month of Paushya, named for the Full Moon occuring in the auspicious lunar sign Pushyami, except this year the actual Full Moon will be in Ashlesha. The lunar month carries with it the energy of Practical, Results-oriented Capricorn, plus the energy of Ashlesha, sign of the snake: Intelligent, Cunning, Plotting and Scheming.

Mercury enters Capricorn on Monday, January 23. The planet of Rational Thought and Making Decisions leaves self-righteous Sagittarius and begins a three week sojourn in the sign of Practical Goals.

Mars goes Retrograde on Monday, January 23, @ 29 deg. Leo. The planet of Action and Moving Things Forward will be "backwards" in the Heavens for the next 11 weeks, until April 14. Generally, it is a poor time to begin anything of importance. Mars gives the energy required to make progress; when this planet is retrograde the energy is not as much available. Obstructions, Delays, and even Failure are more likely until mid-April. Mars Retrograde periods are good for Planning, Making Preparations, and Strategizing; getting things ready to move forward once the planet returns to normal forward motion. Mars retrograde is also good for re-doing parts of projects that need to be re-worked and finalized.

Mars is receiving Good Influence from Jupiter, the "Great Benefic" which is currently in Mars' sign Aries and simultaneously sending its energy to Mars through its 120 deg. Trine Aspect. This energy pattern encourages Mars, and helps to keep things positive, even while the delay factor of the retrograde planet slows things down.

Mars at End of Leo

2012-01-14T08:48:00.000-08:00

Mars reaches the last degree of Leo this week. The planet of Action and Force is "slowing down" in its progress in the Zodiac as it prepares to enter a retrograde phase starting January 24. When a planet is retrograde it is at its closest to the Earth, at its brightest in the Heavens, and therefore powerful for Results. Since Mars is also the planet of War, Accidents, and Destruction, we have to be careful when it is strong for effects.
In the chart of the USA, the transit of Mars is in the 9th house, the area of a country's chart that corresponds to Beliefs, Ethics, and Religion. Thus: Religion and Ideologies are given a boost for manifestation. Since the USA has such variety in this area the energy for confrontation is also enhanced. The Republican Party's presidential nominating process provides a good example.
In Mitt Romney's chart, the position of Mars at the end of Leo pits the energy of the planet of confrontation against his natal Aquarius Sun. His natal Mars and Mercury are also opposed by the transiting Mars. Thus his Ambition for Power (natal Sun in 10th house) suffers from multiple attacks from his challengers, which will only intensify during the coming week. Additionally, Venus now transiting in Aquarius will transit over his natal Mars, increasing his level of Passion as he tries to defend himself.
In President Barack Obama's chart, the transit of Mars is conjunct his natal Mars which is also at the end of Leo. Since Mars on Mars intensifies the energy to Do Something, Mr. Obama is strongly impelled towards Taking Action and being more Confrontive than his usual cautious Capricorn nature. But he also has to be careful of the downside of Mars: Haste and Impulsive Actions, even Recklessness. The situation regarding Iran is a good example of where Ideologies, Beliefs, and a need to Do Something could lead to Hasty Action and Violent Confrontation plunging us into yet another Middle East Conflict.

Gemini Full Moon, Venus enters Aquarius, Venus conjunct Neptune

2012-01-07T08:45:00.000-08:00

The Full Moon will be Monday morning, January 9 (West Coast: Midnight Sunday) @ 24 degrees Gemini. This is the culmination of the energies of the lunar month Paushya, but takes place this year in the lunar sign Purnavasu. Gemini has a strongly Dual Nature. The energy for the weekend is about Feeling Two Ways about everything = Difficulty Making Decisions.
This Full Moon is opposite to Mercury, its dispositor, which is traveling through Sagittarius. Mercury is also being influenced by the trine aspect of its dispositor, Jupiter, from Aries. The exact 120 degree aspect from Jupiter will also be on Sunday, January 8. This double influence on Mercury, planet of Communication, is powerful for Heart-felt Expression of Beliefs and Philosophies, i.e., Dueling Ideologies, which will no doubt be manifest this weekend in New Hampshire in the run-up to that state's Republican Primary. (Another interesting point: Mercury opposite to Full Moon lines up with Newt Gingrich's natal Full Moon in his chart.)
Venus enters Aquarius, Sunday January 8, and will be conjunct Neptune this week. The planet of Compromise and Agreement leaves Practical Capricorn and enters the more Idealistic sign of the Social Revolutionary, Aquarius. Here Venus encounters Neptune, planet of Dreams & Imagination, adding more Reinforcement for Humanitarian Principles, Imaginary Ethical Standards, Devotion to Personal Ideology, etc. The exact conjunction of Venus and Neptune will be on Friday, Jan.13, @ 5 deg. Aquarius. Heating things up further is Mars, transiting in Leo, opposite to and influencing the Venus-Neptune combination. Look forward to an exciting week of Commentators, Candidates, and their Supporters, sounding off, arguing, and attacking each other.

Mars Square Mercury, Mercury enters Sagittarius, Jupiter opposite Saturn

2011-12-31T08:55:00.000-08:00

Mercury and Mars are exactly 90 degrees from each other today, Saturday December 31. The "square" aspect of the Attack Planet Mars has been hitting the Communications & Media Planet Mercury for the past several weeks while Mercury has been in Scorpio, the sign of Secrets and Investigations. There have been plenty of examples of Attacks in and on the Media, Computer Hacking, Secrets Exposed, Revelations from Investigations, etc.
On Tuesday, January 3, Mercury enters Sagittarius. When changing signs a planet is weakened, and while transitioning from a Water sign (Scorpio) to a Fire sign (Sagittarius) a planet is gandant, which further weakens its significations. Mercury is the planet of Rational Thought. Therefore Tuesday is Not a good day for Making Decisions. Interesting that the Republicans have chosen this day for the first voting contest in their presidential nominating process!
Once in Sagittarius, Mercury comes under the influence of Jupiter. Sagittarius is one of Jupiter's signs. Jupiter itself while in Aries is sending its Trinal (120 degree) aspect back to its own sign. Thus by moving from Scorpio to Sagittarius, Mercury will escape the influence of Mars but now come under the influence of benefic Jupiter, the planet of Hope and Faith. Sagittarius is the sign of Belief, Truth, and Philosophies... but always from a Personal Point of View. This combination leads to more Faith in one's Personal Ideologies.
Jupiter and Saturn have moved into a nearly exact opposition to each other. Jupiter has recently returned to Direct Motion (see previous post) at 6 degrees Aries, while Saturn is opposite at 4 degrees Libra. The planet of Hope and Faith influences the planet of Structure and The Established Order for the next several weeks. The planet of Realism & Limitation (Saturn) holds back the excesses of the planet of Expansion (Jupiter). This is good for Stability overall, despite what other things are currently going on in the zodiac.

New Moon, Jupiter goes Direct, Mercury conjunct Rahu

2011-12-24T08:33:00.000-08:00

The New Moon is on Saturday, December 24, @ 8 degrees Sagittarius. This begins the Lunar Month of Paushya. But this year instead of the Full Moon occuring in the nakshatra Pushyami, it will be in Purnavasu. Either way, the month is considered Auspicious. The auspiciousness of the month gets a boost from Jupiter, which as the dispositor of the New Moon (Jupiter rules Sagittarius) is giving a nearly exact trinal aspect from its position @ 6 degrees Aries.
Jupiter ends its retrograde period Sunday, December 25. The planet of Hope, Optimism, Opportunity, Prosperity, Wisdom, etc., will resume normal forward motion in the zodiac this weekend. While Stationary (appearing to be motionless) Jupiter is very strong; more so as it aspects the New Moon.
The Fire Signs Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius are emphasized due to a 3-way parivatna yoga: the Sun is in Sagittarius, whose dispositor Jupiter is in Aries, whose dispositor Mars is in Leo, whose dispositor Sun is in Sagittarius. The qualities of the Fire Signs are strongly emphasized over the next three weeks: Enthusiasm, Beliefs, Honesty, Action. The energy pattern is strong for Expression of Beliefs, Passion for Truth, Heart-felt Action. Careful of Over-confidence and Self-righteousness.
Mercury is exactly conjunct Rahu @ 20 degress Scorpio on Tuesday, December 27. Mercury is simultaneously receiving the square aspect (90 deg) from Mars (exact next Saturday). Rahu as an eclipse point indicates potential Obfuscation and Confusion; Mars' aspect on Mercury indicates potential for Lies and Mendacity. All in the sign Scorpio, known for Investigation, Passion, and Scandal. The passion for Investigation of Scandal gets encouragment from the Fire Sign planets, but simultaneously there will be Denial, Spin, Media Hysteria, etc.

Winter Solstice, Venus square Jupiter and Saturn

2011-12-17T08:38:00.000-08:00

Wednesday, December 21, is the Winter Solstice, the day when the Sun reaches the lowest point of its travel relative to the horizon as seen from the Northern Hemisphere. The Solstice is the shortest day of the year, with the longest night. The Sun will now "turn around" and its daily path will rise up in the Northern Hemisphere. This turning point is called a Sankranti. Three days on either side of the Sankranti (Dec.19-24) are considered Weak and Unfavorable for Starting Anything Important. It is however, considered good for Spiritual Observances.
Venus, now in Capricorn, will be at the mid-point of the Saturn-Jupiter opposition this week. This position (called a T-Square in Western Astrology) puts Venus under pressure, since it is at 90 degrees to two powerful planets. Venus is simultaneously in a Parivatna Yoga with Saturn: the two planets are exchanging energies by being in each other's signs, puting even more pressure on Venus. Saturn, the Reality Check Planet, is strongly influencing Venus, the planet of Compromise and Agreements, and Finances. The Reality of the Situation forces Venus to create Practical Compromise. For instance: the recent Agreements in the US Congress, which seemed impossible earlier last week, are now a reality. The Financial Sector, i.e. Markets, Currencies, etc. will similarly be forced to Face Reality in the coming week.

Mercury goes Direct, Venus enters Capricorn

2011-12-10T07:40:00.000-08:00

On Tuesday, December 13, Mercury will return to Direct Motion in the zodiac. The planet of Logic, Information, and The Media will end its apparent "backwards" motion amongst the stars and resume normal forward motion @ 9 degrees Scorpio. The significations of Mercury will likewise return to normal over the coming week. Since Mercury is still in Scorpio, together with Rahu, and simultaneously aspected by Mars, many of the recent sorts of problems re Disinformation, Mendacity, Impatient Angry Responses, etc. will continue due to Mars being inimical to Mercury (see previous post). The Scorpio penchant for Investigation, especially of Scandal, is enhanced by the direct motion of the planet of Information. Watch for more Lurid Revelations in the coming weeks. This energy pattern continues until Mercury remains in Scorpio on January 3.
Venus changes signs, entering Capricorn, on Thursday December 15. Once leaving Sagittarius, Venus escapes from the combined aspects of Saturn and Jupiter (see previous posts). But now Venus enters into an even tighter relationship with Saturn, since Venus will be in Saturn's sign, Capricorn, while Saturn is in Venus' sign, Libra. This Parivatana Yoga (exchange of sign rulerships) intimately links the energy of Saturn and Venus for the next few weeks (until Jan. 9). Saturn (and Capricorn), brings a very Practical, Realistic, Results-oriented influence to Venus, the planet of Finance and Agreements. Thus: the Financial Sector must finally stop the past Hopeful (Jupiter) Declarations of Belief and Philosophies (Sagittarius) and now deal with the Harsh Reality (Saturn) and come up with a Practical Response (Capricorn) to deal with the Decline of the Euro. Similarly in other Areas, such as the partisan battles in the USA Congress, some realistic practical middle ground will have to be found to deal with the Financial Realities of this country.

Mars Square Retrograde Mercury, Total Lunar Eclipse

2011-12-03T08:22:00.000-08:00

Mars is in an exact 90 deg aspect to Mercury on Sunday, Dec. 4. The planet of Action, Attack, and Destruction is sending its energy directly to the planet of Communications, Logic, and Decisions, which is already operating at a disadvantage due to its retrograde condition. Mercury's Logic and Clarity has been further compromised by its proximity to Rahu, an indicator of Confusion. The effects, which we have been witnessing over the past week as the aspect was forming, tend towards Mistakes made due to Incorrect Data or Misunderstood Communication. The recent mess between the USA and Pakistan over the mistaken bombing of Pakistani troops is an example. Mercury Retrograde in Scorpio is the planet of Information going backwards in the zodiac, i.e., Revisiting the Past, and in the sign of Investigations. The aspect of Mars, planet of Anger, makes the investigations Contentious. For example: the recent revelations of Herman Cain's past affairs followed by the candidate's angry confused responses have now doomed his campaign.
The Full Moon will be next Saturday, Dec. 10 @ 24 deg. Taurus. This Full Moon will also be a Total Lunar Eclipse. Eclipses signal Changes coming in the Future. The eclipse occurs in the sign Taurus, the sign of Value and Worth. Since Taurus is directly connected with Money and Finance, we can assume that the Value and Worth of Currencies are going to go through some Changes in the coming months. Taurus is also connected with Agricultural Products. Thus the eclipse signals some potential problem in that area as well. The world events associated with the eclipse are more likely to show up in the parts of the Earth where the eclipse is visible, which will be from the West Coast of the USA (visible just before Dawn as the Moon sets) and extending over the Pacific, Asia, and Eastern Europe.

Venus aspected by Saturn and Jupiter

2011-11-26T08:39:00.000-08:00

While transiting in Sagittarius, Venus is being simultaneously aspected by Saturn and Jupiter. While in Libra, Saturn influences the sign three signs ahead of itself: Sagittarius. Libra is one of Venus's signs. Thus Saturn is aspecting and influencing its own dispositor, Venus. Meanwhile Jupiter, transiting in Aries, casts its trinal full-force aspect on it's own sign Sagittarius. Thus Venus is simultaneously being aspected by its dispositor, Jupiter. This combination of influences on Venus gives rise to some interesting results. Jupiter's aspect gives Venus a good dose of Hope and Optimism for Compromise and Agreement. But Saturn as the Reality Check planet holds back, forcing the Venus Idealism to bow to the Limitation of Circumstances. Various conflicts in the world, ranging from National Basketball Association negotiations to Egyptian Protests to Occupy Wall Street Movement, will have to find some reasonable middle ground over the coming weeks.
Meanwhile Mercury, the planet of Communications, is Retrograde, and simultaneously receiving the inimical square aspect of Mars. Since Mercury is transiting in Mars' sign Scorpio, Mars rules over Mercury. The aspect of Mars to Mercury is becoming more exact and therefore intensifying during the coming week(Mars' exact square to Mercury will be Dec. 4). This energy combination creates Impatience and Anger resulting from Misunderstanding and Delay, and raises the stakes on any negotiations proceeding at this time. Since Mars in Leo is also receiving the trinal aspect of Jupiter, there is still Hope that the planet of Truth and Wisdom, influencing so many key planets in the Heavens, will save the day.

Venus enters Sagittarius, Scorpio New Moon, Mercury goes Retrograde

2011-11-18T17:23:00.000-08:00

Venus enters Sagittarius on Monday November 21. The planet of Relationship and Sociability is usually good in the Warm, Enthusiastic sign of Sagittarius. But Sagittarius can be self-centered; not so open to sacrifice and compromise as true love requires. Venus picks up the trinal aspect of its dispositor, Jupiter, transiting in another Fire Sign, Aries. This combination enhances the Sagittarian quality of Seeking Truth and Honesty. Venus will be in Sagittarius until December 15.
The New Moon will be on Thursday, November 24, @ 8 deg. Scorpio. This marks the beginning of the Lunar Month of Margashiras, named for the nakshatra (lunar sign) of the Full Moon, Mrigrashira, considered auspicious for Travel, Enjoyments, Socializing, Ceremonies. The energy of the lunar month is somewhat marred by the simultaneously occurance of Retrograde Mercury.
Mercury goes Retrograde on Thursday, November 24, @ 26 deg. Scorpio. The planet of Communications, Rational Thinking, Data and Information, Equipment, Business Transactions, and Travel, will be moving "in reverse" from night to night amongst the stars for the next three weeks, until December 14. This situation is well know for producing annoyance due to misunderstandings, delayed communications, and equipment scew-ups. Best to anticipate the problems by checking and re-checking that the message got through, that what was intended was what got heard, etc. This Mercury Retrograde period has additional problems due to the square (90 deg) aspect of Mars, the planet of Impatience and Anger, resulting in Misunderstandings progressing easily into Arguments and Conflict. Careful to keep Patience and not dive into things too quickly.

Saturn enters Libra, Sun and Mars Exchange Signs

2011-11-12T07:23:00.000-08:00

On Monday, Nov. 14, Saturn enters Libra in the Sidereal Zodiac. After spending 2 years and 2 months traveling through Virgo, the planet of Restriction and Structure advances into the next sign and will express itself through this new position for the next three years (until November 2014). Saturn moves very slowly, so for the next week it will be sandhi, i.e., on the edge of a sign, and therefore Weak and Vulnerable. Saturn significations will suffer some, but only at first. There will be continued uncertainty about where things are going. But as the planet advances further into Libra, more of the energy pattern becomes obvious. Saturn is considered exalted in Libra, allowing more of its favorable qualities to manifest. The planet of Structure in the sign of Peace and Idealism. The planet of Responsibility in the sign of Balance. Further, for the next six months Saturn will enjoy the aspect of benefic Jupiter, which is transiting on the opposite side of the zodiac in Aries. Jupiter lends support and encouragement to Saturn.
The Sun moves into Scorpio on Wednesday, November 16. After spending the last month in its sign of debilitation, Sun now advances into a sign more favorable to its energy. This creates a parivatna yoga between Mars and the Sun for the next four weeks. Mars is in Sun's sign Leo, while Sun is in Mars' sign Scorpio. Further, Mars is aspecting its own sign, and the Sun, through its fourth house ("square") aspect.
It's a powerful relationship between Sun, the planet of Power, Governments, and Authority, and Mars, the planet of Action, Force, and Results. The two signs involved, Leo and Scorpio, are not shy about using power. Both of these are Fixed signs, i.e., determined, not likely to back down. The energy will be for resolution, likely by force, of various stalemates that have been brewing over the past months.

Venus and Mercury in Graha Yuda, Full Moon in Aries

2011-11-05T08:12:00.000-07:00

Venus and Mercury will be exactly conjunct, within one degree, this entire week. Mercury usually moves faster through the zodiac than Venus, but Mercury is now slowing down as it prepares to go retrograde at the end of the month. Mercury now paces Venus, sharing the same degree, which in Vedic Astrology is called "Graha Yuda" or Planetary War. The two celestials are in rapt conjunction with each other as they move through Scorpio. Mercury the planet of Rational Thinking and Information is in a struggle with Venus the planet of Pleasures. Both planets are simultaneously receiving the aspect of Mars. The result is a lot of Confusion and Scandal as the Rational Principle gets contaminated by the Pleasure Principle in the Sign of Secrets and Passions while being influenced by the planet of Aggression and Destruction, Mars. Be Careful of Speaking (Mercury) out of Passion (Venus) which results in Swift Destructive Action (Mars). (Example: the US General who got relieved of his command after making inappropriate remarks about President Karzai)
Mars in Leo is directly opposite to Neptune in Aquarius from Saturday through Tuesday, with the exact opposition on Monday Nov.7: The planet of Actions in the sign of Leaders and Governments is influenced by the planet of Dreams and Illusions, adding more Confusion to the course of events this week, especially as related to Government Leaders (such as the whole mess in Greece).
The Full Moon will be on Thursday, Nov. 10, @ 24 deg. Aries: This is the culmination of the lunar month of Ashvini, in a sign that loves Action and Taking Risks. The energy of this Full Moon is boosted by Jupiter, which is also occupying Aries, adding Optimism and Faith, but also potential for Over-confidence and Recklessness, to the energy pattern this week.

Mars enters Leo, Mars opposite Neptune

2011-10-29T08:02:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, October 30, Mars will enter Leo. Usually Mars takes about 6 weeks to transit through a sign. But for this transit Mars will stay in Leo for a long time: 7 1/2 months. Mars will transit all the way through Leo, turn retrograde in late January and reverse direction in Leo, and then turn around in mid-April and proceed through Leo a third time, finally exiting on June 21, 2012.
The energy of Mars is compatible with Leo: the planet of Action in the sign of Authority indicates a lot of activity during the coming months, especially from Leaders and Governments. Mars is encouraged by the trine (120 deg.) aspect of Jupiter, the planet of Wisdom, Hope, and Optimism, which is transiting in Mars' sign Aries. Mars will be the dispositor of several planets for the next few weeks: Jupiter in Aries, and Mercury, Venus, and Rahu in Mars' sign Scorpio. Mars also sends its special 4th house (square, 90 deg.) aspect into Scorpio, its own sign. All of these patterns contribute to Mars being a very strong and important planet for the next several weeks.
But there are a couple of problems:
Mars will be opposite to Neptune, the planet of Dreams and Illusions, transiting on the other side of the zodiac in the early degrees of Aquarius. Neptune sends its energy for Illusion and Delusion to Mars making the planet of Action Idealistic as well as Unrealistic. The simultaneous trinal aspect from Jupiter in Aries can give False Optimism. Since Mars is in the sign of Kings and Governments, we can expect Lack of Realism, and mis-steps, from our Leaders during coming weeks.
The Sun, the ruler of Leo, and thus the dispositor of Mars, is debilitated in Libra, and simultaneously Papakatari, i.e., hemmed between the two malefics: Rahu in Scorpio and Saturn in Virgo. Since the Sun also represents Rulers and Governments, there is even more energy for Screw-Ups from The People in Charge. The situation with the Sun will improve when it leaves Libra and moves to Scorpio in mid-November.
(For more on Mars in Leo, get the current issue of The Vedic Astrology Newsletter, available now.

New Moon, Diwali, Venus and Mercury enter Scorpio

2011-10-22T08:37:00.000-07:00

The New Moon will be on Wednesday, Oct. 26, @ 9 deg. Libra. This marks the beginning of the Lunar Month of Karttika, associated with Overcoming Enemies and Defeating the Demons. The New Moon will be closely aspected by Jupiter, opposite at 11 deg. Libra, which lends Hope and Prosperity. But since Jupiter is Retrograde, the results are Delayed.
This New Moon is an important Hindu Holiday, called Diwali, "The Festival of Lights" celebrating the Victory of Good over Evil. Lighting of Candles surronding one's home, giving of sweets, Puja in favor of Laxmi, Ganapati, Rama, etc.
Venus will enter Scorpio on Friday, Oct. 28. Venus will be receiving the square (90 deg) aspect of Mars this week, exact on Wednesday, Oct 26. While changing signs a planet is Weak, and in this case also receiving an inimical aspect from a debilitated Mars. The energy pattern is Unfavorable for Venus significations at the end of the week, i.e., not good for Agreement, Treaty, Romance, etc. Financial Sector and Entertainment Sector will likely take a hit.
Mercury enters Scorpio on Saturday, Oct. 29. As with Venus, Mercury is also receiving the inimical square aspect from Mars in Cancer, and will likewise have its significations suffer while changing signs: Communications, Business Transactions, Logical Thinking, The Media, etc. are under stress at the end of this week.

Sun, Venus, Mercury in Libra, Opposite Jupiter

2011-10-14T18:51:00.000-07:00

On Monday Oct.17 the Sun joins with Mercury and Venus in Libra. The sign of Balance, Harmony, and Agreement gets extra attention during the next couple of weeks. The Sun represents Authority, including Governments, Mercury is the Intellect, including Ideas and Decisions, and Venus wants Everybody to Be Nice. The potential is there for Compromise, Treaty, Successful Contract, etc.
Jupiter is still retrograde on the opposite side of the zodiac, in Aries. Jupiter's aspect on the Libra combination is mostly Positive: the planet of Wisdom and Faith helps by giving Optimism to the Sun-Mercury-Venus energy pattern. But Jupiter is Retrograde. In Vedic Astrology the aspect of a retrograde planet, even if benefic, can retard any real action or accomplishment. Thus there is a lot of Hope and Talk, but nothing concrete.
On Sunday, Oct.16, Mercury will be exactly opposite Jupiter. The planet of Expansion influences the planet of Ideas =Big Ideas. In Libra, the sign of Social Idealism, the discussion continues over what sort of society we want to live in.
Mars is still in Cancer, at 90 degrees to the Libra-Aries pattern, and therefore at odds with the energy for agreement. Mars is Impatient for Results and prone to Anger in the emotional sign Cancer, sign of The Public. The energy of Mars in Cancer gets a boost when Moon transits through Cancer, from Wednesday through Friday, Oct. 19-21. The potential for Violence is strongest on Friday, when the Moon will be exactly conjunct Mars.

Mercury enters Libra, Full Moon in Pisces, Saturn Combust

2011-10-08T09:15:00.000-07:00

Mercury will leave Virgo and enter Libra on Sunday, Oct 9. Mercury now joins Venus, already transiting in Libra. For the next three weeks both Venus and Mercury are exchanging energy with Jupiter, which is opposite in Aries. This is overall a benefic combination. Venus the planet of Sociability and Agreement is happy in its own sign. Mercury the planet of Rational Thought enhances Libra qualities of Fairness and Balance. Jupiter opposite adds Hope and Optimism. The downside is that Jupiter is also retrograde, therefore adding a delay factor in realizing the goals and promise of this planetary pattern. Jupiter's energy of Expansion also raises the expectations of Venus and Mercury, but can't necessarily deliver on those expectations.
Meanwhile Mars, planet of Action and Fast Results, is unhappy in Cancer, sign of The Public, and in "square" aspect to the Venus-Mercury-Jupiter combination, adding in an element of Impatience which creates Anger when results aren't forthcoming. Most notably this energy pattern is showing up as public protests and demonstrations all over the world. This pattern continues for most of the rest of October.
Saturn is now deeply combust the Sun at the end of Virgo. When a planet gets within a few degrees of the Sun, its significations suffer. Saturn as the planet of Structure makes things Real. While combust Saturn can't deliver. So once again, the Idealistic Expectations of Venus-Mercury opposite Jupiter are not likely to see real results this coming week.
The Full Moon is on Tuesday, Oct. 11, @ 24 deg. Pisces. This marks the culmination of the energies of the lunar month Ashvina. The Full Moon will be nearly exactly opposite to combust Saturn. Since the lunar month started out with the New Moon together with Saturn, there is a strong connection in this lunar cycle with the planet of Realism, Structure, and Accomplishment. Unfortunately Saturn in its present condition cannot deliver much.

Venus enters Libra, Mercury conjunct Saturn

2011-10-01T07:48:00.000-07:00

Venus will enter Libra on Tuesday Oct. 4. Venus will be weak while changing signs Monday and Tuesday. While still in its sign of debilitation and under the influence of Saturn (see previous posts) until it exits Virgo, Venus is simultaneously in the Virgo navamsha, i.e., "double debilitated." Therefore Venus significations are especially vulnerable this weekend and until Tuesday.
Venus will be in better shape when it is in its own sign Libra; Venus significations improve later in the week.
While in Libra for most of October, Venus will be opposite to Jupiter, which is currently retrograde on the other side of the zodiac, in Aries. Venus as the planet of Agreements receives energy from Jupiter the planet of Hope and Faith. Venus in Libra emphasizes the Libra qualities of Fairness and Balance. However, Venus will also be receiving the inimical "square" aspect of Mars, which is in its sign of debilitation, Cancer. Mars in Cancer is volatile: Cancer is the sign of the Public, and Mars in Cancer= The Public's Anger and Impatience (note all of the demonstrations occuring in countries around the world). With Venus opposite Jupiter, the Hopes for Fairness and Equality are raised, but with Jupiter retrograde, the Justice (Jupiter = Law) is "Held Back."
Mercury and Saturn will be conjunct on Thursday, Oct. 6: This week Mercury the planet of Rational Mind, therefore Decisions, is in close contact with Saturn, the planet of Harsh Reality. Mostly this promotes Realistic Decisions, but with strong potential for unpalatable outcomes.

New Moon in Virgo, Navatri, Venus conjunct Saturn

2011-09-24T08:47:00.000-07:00

The New Moon is on Tuesday, Sept.27, @ 9 deg. Virgo. This marks the beginning of the Lunar Month of Ashvina, named for the nakshatra (lunar sign) of the Full Moon, although this year the Full Moon will actually fall in the previous lunar sign, Revati.
The first nine nights of the month of Ashvina are special in the Hindu world as the Navratri Festival, honoring Durga, the Godess of Protection. (note that in India, which is 12 hours ahead of the USA, the festival begins Wednesday, Sept.28, India Time). The festival culminates at the ninth night and 10th day (Oct.6 in India). Prayers and Pujas to Durga, i.e., seeking help to get rid of your problems, are appropriate during Navratri.
The New Moon, and the coming lunar month, carries with it the energy of Mercury, Venus, and Saturn, all of which are together in Virgo. Mercury, the ruler of the sign Virgo, is closely conjunct the New Moon, indicating a focus on Details and Analysis.
Venus is getting closer to Saturn, and will be exactly conjunct Thursday, Sept 29, at 24 deg. Virgo. The planet of Finance and Guidance will be confronted by The Reality Check Planet. The Financial Sector will be under a great deal of stress (as if it hasn't been already!) during this week. Venus is also the planet of Compromise and Agreements, therefore Treaties. The conjunction with Saturn, the planet of Harsh Reality, Restrictions, Limitations, makes coming to Agreement difficult unless major concessions get made: the current stalemate in the US Congress will be another cliff-hanger this week.

Mercury enters Virgo

2011-09-17T08:35:00.000-07:00

Not much change in the Heavens this week.
Mercury will enter Virgo on Thursday, Sept. 22. Mercury in its sign of Exaltation will boost the Mercury significations for the next two and a half weeks. Mercury will join Venus, Sun, and Saturn in Virgo, and also be opposite to Uranus in Pisces. Generally, this combination is favorable for Realistic Decisions, especially pertaining to the Financial Sector (Venus). The Uranus energy oppposite could contribute some surprises, as it did this past week, with unusual action by Central Banks and Government Finance Ministeries bending over backwards to avoid a Euro-zone financial debacle.
Mars is still in Cancer until end of October: along with two other "natural malefic" planets in Water signs, i.e., Rahu in Scorpio and Uranus in Pisces, the indications are for extreme weather events, flooding, accidents on the water, etc. This energy pattern gets augmented when Moon transits through Cancer, and conjunct Mars, starting Thursday and lasting until Saturday. Mars will simultaneously be in exact Trine Aspect (120 degrees) from Uranus, creating another pattern for Unexpected or Unusual Events, Accidents, etc.

Full Moon in Aquarius, Venus with Saturn in Virgo

2011-09-10T08:42:00.000-07:00

The Full Moon will be Monday, September 12, @ 25 deg. Aquarius in the Sidereal Zodiac. This marks the culmination of the Hindu month of Bhadrapada, named for the nakshatra (lunar sign) Poorva Bhadra, a sign associated with Transformation, Pain, Regret, Remorse, Penance, etc.
Venus is now in Virgo, its sign of debilitation and has joined with Saturn, which has been transiting in Virgo for the last two years. Venus is the planet of Finance in the sign of Analysis, with Saturn the "Reality Check" planet. Already the markets are going through reassessment due to the reality of the European Sovereign Debt situation. Venus is also the planet of Agreements and Compromises, which similarly will have to adjust to Reality.
Additionally, Venus is moving into Opposition with Uranus: the oppostion will be exact in a week, on Sept. 17. The planet of Finance and Markets is under additional stress from the planet of Sudden Unexpected Changes.
Mars has entered Cancer, its sign of debilitation. There are now three "natural malefics" in Water Signs: Mars in Cancer, Rahu in Scorpio, Uranus in Pisces. This sets the stage for accidents, disasters, and problems through the Water Element. Already a major boat accident has occured off the coast of Africa.

Planets Changing Signs: Mercury, Mars, Venus

2011-09-03T09:53:00.000-07:00

This week a new pattern emerges in the Heavens as three planets move into new signs in the Sidereal Zodiac:
Mercury enters Leo on Sunday, Sept. 4. Mercury is good in Leo: the planet of Rational Thought in a naturally Philosophical sign. But, while changing signs Mercury has to pass through the Gandant degrees (intersection of Water Sign and Fire Sign) and therefore will be weak for its significations for the holiday weekend. Further, as soon as Mercury enters Leo, it is opposed by Neptune, planet of Dreams, which is opposite in Aquarius. Mercury influenced by Neptune is great for the Imagination and Utopian Ideals (watch for Obama's speech this week) but tends to be either Confused, or at best Unrealistic. The opposition of Mercury and Neptune will be exact on Thursday, Sept. 8.
Mars enters Cancer on Friday, Sept. 9. The planet of Action and Violence is considered debilitated, i.e., weakened, in Cancer. Mars is classed as a Natural Malefic (capable of doing harm) and when a natural malefic is debilitated it is considered Very Bad. Since Cancer is a Water Sign, we can expect some more blows from Mother Nature during the 6 weeks Mars is in this sign (until Oct. 30).
Venus enters Virgo on Friday (early Saturday Pacific Time), Sept. 9. Again we have a planet entering its sign of debilitation. But since it is Venus, a rather mild-acting planet, the results are not so bad as with Mars. Still, Venus significations are prone to suffer. Venus is the planet of Love; Virgo is the discriminating sign of details. The anal qualities of Virgo and the Romance of Venus don't go together that well. Venus will also be conjunct Saturn, which is still transiting in Virgo. The Reality Check planet Saturn puts the brakes on Venus, the planet of Finance: the Financial Sector has to weather the storm for most of the rest of September.

New Moon, Jupiter Retrograde

2011-08-27T08:34:00.000-07:00

The New Moon will be Sunday, Aug. 28, @ 12 degrees in Leo. This marks the beginning of the Hindu month of Bhadrapada, named for the nakshatra (lunar sign) of the Full Moon, which will be on September 11. The month of Bhadrapada has a reputation for events of extreme difficulty. Some recent examples: the terrorist bombing of the World Trade Center, Hurricane Katrina, the Financial Meltdown of 2008. Generally, it is not an auspicious month for beginning important endeavors, which tend to encounter difficulties and suffering. The energy of the month is more suited to Endings, Dangerous Deeds, Doing Penance.
Jupiter enters its Retrograde Phase on Tuesday, Aug. 30. Jupiter appears to hang motionless in the Heavens, at 16 deg. Aries, and then starts moving backwards against the backdrop of the stars, until Dec. 25, when it will resume its normal forward motion in the zodiac. When a planet is retrograde it is at its closest to the Earth, therefore bright in the sky, therefore strong. But by going "backwards" the planet is not expressing its energy in a normal manner. The planet of Opportunity is retracing its steps amongst the stars. Therefore, look for Opportunity in the Past, i.e., it is useful to revisit the past and recultivate potentials that did not initially bear fruit.
(for more discussion on Bhadrapada and Jupiter Retrograde, listen to Monday's podcast of the "Stars of India" radio show, posted on Aug.29)

Venus opposite Neptune, Mars square Saturn, Mercury goes Direct

2011-08-20T08:02:00.000-07:00

Venus will be exactly opposite to Neptune on Sunday, Aug.21. The planet of Worth and Value is being influenced by the planet of Dreams and Confusion. Venus is still deeply combust (near exact conjunction with the Sun) this week (see previous post); material significations of Venus have been suffering: Financial Markets remain in turmoil. Venus and Sun are in Leo, the sign of Kings and Governments. As Venus signifies Finance, the confusion and doubts prompted by opposing Neptune are about the finances of various governments.
Mars will be exactly square to Saturn on Thursday, Aug. 25. Mars is considered to throw a full force aspect 4 signs (90 deg) ahead of itself; Saturn throws a full force aspect to the 10th sign (270 deg) ahead of itself. Mars and Saturn are therefore in mutual aspect. These two planets are enemies in Vedic Astrology. Mars the planet of Violence and War challenges Saturn the planet of Structure and Stability. Saturn the planet of Restriction and Control tries to hold Mars back. The rather unstable energy pattern gets a further boost when the Moon enters Gemini on Tuesday. Moon's exact conjunction with Mars will be on Thursday, @ 20 deg. Gemini, just when the Mars-Saturn aspect will be exact.
Mercury goes Direct on Friday, Aug.26, @ 24 deg Cancer. The planet of Communications and Rational Decisions ends its three weeks long retrograde period at the end of this week. Mercury's significations will begin to improve, but some effects will still linger for another week as the planet "gets back up to speed" in its normal forward motion through the zodiac.

Sun, Venus, and Mercury Conjunct and Changing Signs

2011-08-13T08:08:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday, August 16, the Sun and Venus, while exactly conjunct, will together leave Cancer and enter Leo. Simultaneously, Mercury, still retrograde, will "back into" Cancer from Leo. The three planets will all be conjunct at the very end of Cancer. Although the conjunction of Sun and Mercury is not considered adverse, since Mercury is not behaving normally due to its retrograde motion, this conjunction is suspect. Significations of Mercury are not to be trusted: careful in all communications; check to see that what was intended was what got heard. Venus is considered to suffer greatly from combustion. The planet of Value and Guidance is invisible: Values are hard to determine; pundits are prone to be inaccurate. The past week saw markets swing wildly: hard to determine value. This coming week is likely to be similar.
The border between a water sign, Cancer, and a fire sign, Leo, is considered a vulnerable area in Vedic Astrology, called Gandant. Planets transiting through the final degree of a water sign and first degree of a fire sign have their significations weakened. Thus, Monday through Wednesday is a poor time for scheduling any important action.

Retrograde Mercury opposite Neptune, Mars opposite Pluto, Full Moon

2011-08-06T09:43:00.000-07:00

Mercury, Retrograde in Leo, will be exactly opposite Neptune on Monday August 8: The planet of Rational Thinking is opposed by the planet of the Irrational all this week. Both planets are moving "backwards" in the Heavens, which makes the interaction more problematic. Neptune's influence on Mercury boosts Imagination and Creativity, but causes Confusion and is detrimental to clear thinking and making good decisions.
The exact oppostion of Mars and Pluto occurs on Wednesday, Aug 10. Mars as the planet of Confrontation, Aggression, War, and Destruction is exchanging influence with Pluto the planet of Total Dissolution and Regeneration. There is potential for a large-scale event causing Major Change this week. On Tuesday, the Moon will be in Sagittarius and conjunct Pluto, adding more energy to the opposition for an event.
Venus is within 2 degrees of the Sun this week, starting on Monday. Venus is in "deep combustion" and its significations "are destroyed" ....Values are hard to determine; the Financial Sector continues to be volatile.
The Full Moon is next Saturday, Aug. 13, @ 26 deg. Capricorn. This is the culmination of the energies of the lunar month of Shravana, considered good for Religious Ceremony, etc. (see previous post). However, this year the August Full Moon is actually in the lunar sign Dhanishta, altering the traditional interpretation of the month. One of the themes of Dhanishta is "To be an Instrument of God." Combined with the powerful destructive force of the Mars-Pluto opposition this week, we can see more examples of people in various parts of the world going to extremes in expressing their beliefs.

New Moon in Cancer, Mercury goes Retrograde

2011-07-30T08:52:00.000-07:00

Today, Saturday July 30, is the New Moon, in Cancer @ 13 degrees. This marks the beginning of the Hindu month Shravana, considered auspicious for Religious Ceremony, Taking Preventive Measures, Beginning a Course of Study or Self-improvement. The New Moon is in conjunction with Venus, which lends its energy to the coming lunar month.
Mercury will begin its Retrograde Phase on Tuesday, August 2. Mercury will turn retrograde @ 7 deg. of Leo. The planet of Communications, Logic, Reasoning, Discrimination, Equipment, and Business Transactions will be "backwards" in the Heavens for the next three weeks. The significations of Mercury suffer during its retrograde phase: Communications get Delayed and/ or Misinterpreted, Equipment tends to Malfunction, people are Less Reasonable. The best recourse is to check and recheck to make sure the message got through, expect delays and misunderstanding, and compensate by being extra careful. This is generally a bad time to begin anything important, since the birth chart of any new endeavor will then have Mercury retrograde in it and always be plagued with delays, misunderstandings, etc.
Mercury goes retrograde opposite Neptune, which itself is retrograde and barely moving @ 6 deg. Aquarius. The planet of Rationality, already disadvantaged, is influenced by the energy of the planet of Dreams, Idealism, and Deception. Additionally, Mars and Saturn are in Mercury's signs: Mars is in Gemini, and Saturn is in Virgo. Both of these planets are considered "natural malefics" in Vedic Astrology, i.e., they represent difficulties, and are simultaneously influencing each other by mutual aspect ("square" or 90 deg.) as well as influencing Mercury by being in its signs. Combined with the retrograde condition of Mercury, and its opposition by Neptune, the overall energy pattern is one that signals a lot of Difficulty, Delay, Bad Decisions, Frustration, Anger, etc. for the coming weeks. Best to be careful and stick to routine actions. The problems will abate in three weeks, after Mercury returns to normal direct motion on August 26.

Venus enters Cancer, Mars enters Gemini, Mercury opposite Neptune

2011-07-23T09:31:00.000-07:00

Venus enters Cancer today, Saturday July 23. A planet is weakened while it is changing signs. Venus is also Combust (see previous post). Thus all of Venus' significations have been suffering and continue to do so while the planet is vulnerable: Agreement and Compromise are hard to achieve (such as the collapse of Debt Ceiling negotiations in Washinton DC). The Value and Worth of things are hard to determine, resulting in volatility in the Financial Sector.
The Mars-Ketu conjunction is exact today, Saturday July 23. Since Ketu (south node of the Moon, i.e., one of the eclipse points) is considered in Vedic Astrology to have "Mars-like" qualities, this is a double Mars energy pattern, giving a strong potential for Violent and Destructive Events. The Terrorist Attack in Norway may not be the only example; more events of a destructive nature are possible over the next few days.
Mars enters Gemini on Monday, July 25. The planet of Aggression and Fast Results is not comfortable in the sign of Diplomacy. As Mars changes signs it will be opposite to the June 15 total eclipse point (Sagittarius 0 degrees). There is high potential for some "game-changer" event early in the week. Simultaneously, Mars will be conjunct the natal Mars of the USA chart, @ 1 deg. Gemini, the 7th house of "partner countries." This too is a warning for potentially Violent or Destructive Action regarding the USA and its allies. The Moon enters Gemini on Wednesday, adding more energy for events in general and specifically concerning the USA and its partner countries.
Mercury will be exactly opposite Neptune on Thursday, July 28. The planet of Rational Thought, now in early degrees of Leo, is slowing down to a crawl in the Heavens as it prepares to turn retrograde on August 2. Simultaneously it is directly opposite Neptune, planet of Dreams, Illusions and Deception, which itself is retrograde and nearly motionless at 6 deg. Aquarius. The influence of Neptune on Mercury is not a good one, since it is the planet of the Irrational affecting the planet of the Thinking; i.e., not favorable for rational decisions this week.

Mercury enters Leo, Venus Combust, Mars Conjunct Ketu

2011-07-16T07:37:00.000-07:00

Mercury changes signs, entering Leo, on Wednesday, July 20. The planet of Rational Decisions leaves the emotional water sign Cancer and enters the sign of Kings and Governments. Overall this is a better situation for Mercury (and may be a better situation for governments as well). However, across the zodiac from Mercury is Neptune, @ 6 deg. Aquarius: the planet of Dreams and Illusions opposes the planet of Reason and Rationality. Thus we have to be on guard for decisions being influenced by irrational ideals and illusions (and so we can't count on governments making the right decision after all).
Venus is now combust the Sun. When a planet gets too close to the Sun it can no longer be seen in the Heavens and thus the significations of the planet suffer. Venus has been the "Morning Star" i.e., visible before Dawn in the East, for the past several months. It will catch up to the Sun over the next few weeks, and then pass over the Sun, and finally reappear as the "Evening Star" in the West after Sunset, in mid-September. Thus, for the next two months, the energy of Venus will be compromised. Venus is one of the planets of Guidance (the other is Jupiter). When we can't see Venus we are "without guidance." Venus is the planet of Value: when it is invisible it is harder to determine the true value of something. Therefore the next several weeks is a poor time for making decisions about important expenditures.
Mars is conjunct Ketu on Saturday, July 23, @ 28 deg. Gemini. The planet of Action and Violence comes together with the planet of Past Karma and Material Dissolution. This is a rather problematic combination which has been building in intensity over the past several weeks (see previous posts). The energy pattern is unfavorable for significations related to the Earth sign Taurus, the sign of Materiality, Worth, Crops, Wealth from the Earth. Earthquakes, Drought, Fires, Volcanic Eruption, etc. have already been manifesting in the world and will continue to intensify this week. The Financial Sector continues to be stressed, and the ongoing financial crisis in Europe and the USA becomes severely pressurized... even more so now that Venus (planetary ruler of Taurus and significator of Finance) is combust, thereby creating more uncertainty.

Full Moon in Sagittarius, Guru Purnima

2011-07-09T08:31:00.000-07:00

There are no significant changes in planetary patterns this coming week.
The Full Moon will be on Thursday, July 14, near Midnight (Pacific Coast Time; early AM on Friday elsewhere in the USA), @ 28 deg. Sagittarius. This marks the culmination of the lunar month of Ashada. In the Hindu tradition this Full Moon is celebrated as Guru Purnima. It is an important day for Ceremony to Give Thanks to Your Guru /Teacher(s). Refer to India Websites for instructions on Puja and Ceremony. (Please note that since India Time is 12 hours ahead of USA, India websites indicate Guru Purnima to be on Friday, July 15; Full Moon @ Noon).
Announcement: the July-August issue of The Vedic Astrology Newsletter is now available.

Mars with Ketu, Uranus goes Retrograde

2011-07-02T06:26:00.000-07:00

There are no major changes in planetary patterns this coming week.
However, some ongoing planetary patterns are getting stronger.
Mars, advancing in Taurus, is making its way towards conjunction with Ketu (South Node of the Moon; one of the eclipse points). Both Mars and Ketu share the quality of Fire and Destruction. Thus their combined action while both occupy Earth sign Taurus, is detrimental to crops, lands, buildings, etc. The ongoing wildfires in Southwest USA are one example.
Taurus is the sign of Value and Worth, Mars is the planet of War, Ketu signifies Changes: the ongoing battles over making changes to budgets, financial values, opposing notions of what is important, etc., is another expression of this planetary combination. The energy of Mars + Ketu intensifies as they get closer to exact conjunction, which will be on July 23.
Uranus turns retrograde at the end of this week (retrograde: the apparent backwards motion of a plant in the zodiac). Uranus, another significator of Changes, has progressed in Pisces as far as it will go this year. This week the planet is Stationary, i.e., appearing to hang motionless in the Heavens, as it prepares to enter its retrograde phase for the next five months. A stationary planet is considered especially powerful for giving its effects. As the planet of Freedom and Rebellion, and while still in opposition to Saturn, the planet of Order and Stability, Uranus forms an energy pattern that promises no letup of the pressure for Change on established governments, structures, and the status quo.

Venus enters Gemini, Mercury enters Cancer, New Moon

2011-06-25T09:19:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday, June 28, Mercury will enter Cancer. The planet of Rational Thought doesn't do as well in a Feelings-oriented Water sign. Thus some of the natural significations of Mercury are weakened for the next few weeks. However, Mercury in Cancer is good for intuitive thought, and since the sign Cancer is connected with The Masses, the Political Arena gets more emphasis.
Venus changes signs, entering Gemini, on Tuesday June 28 (or early Wednesday AM on the West Coast of the USA). The planet of Agreement and Creativity does well in the Idea sign Gemini. Gemini is the sign of Diplomacy; being able to see things from many angles, so this transit gives some hope for making progress in negotiations over the coming weeks.
While changing signs, Venus is in some danger, as it will be exactly conjunct Ketu, the South Node of the Moon (see previous post). Venus will simultaneously be opposite the June 15 Lunar Eclipse point (0 deg. Sagittarius). Therefore we can expect further developements, mostly negative, on Tues-Wednesday concerning Venus' significations: Financial Markets, Agreements and Compromise, The Arts and Celebrities, etc., are likely to suffer.
The New Moon will be on Friday, July 1, @ 15 deg Gemini. This begins the lunar month of Ashada, considered a good month for making progress or initiating contacts. Since Venus will have already entered Gemini, the sign of the New Moon, this lunar month carries with it the significations of the planet of Harmony, further enhancing Ashada's potential for Accomplishment.

Venus sandwiched between Ketu and Mars

2011-06-18T09:13:00.000-07:00

As Venus advances through Taurus this week and next, it is getting closer to Ketu (south node of the Moon, one of the eclipse points), which is hanging out at the end of the sign: 29 deg. Taurus. The exact conjunction will be Tuesday June 28. Meanwhile, Mars, having entered Taurus last week, is at the other end of the sign. In Vedic Astrology, Ketu and Mars both are considered natural malefics, i.e., having the potential to cause harm.
Mars and Ketu both have the quality of Fire: fast-acting and destructive. Thus, Venus and its significations are not expected to do well during the rest of this month. Agreements, Compromise, Balance are all hard to achieve. Venus as the planet of Money indicates that the Financial Sector is going to suffer. Venus represents the Arts and Entertainment: another celebrity is likely to pass away.
Meanwhile, Uranus at 10 degrees Pisces is still opposite to Saturn at 16 degrees Virgo. The planet of Rebellion and Revolution continues to cause problems for the planet of Structures and the Established Order: the situation in the Middle East shows no signs of abatement. From Wednesday until Friday the Moon will be in Pisces, adding more energy on the Uranus side of the equation and creating increased likelihood of disruptive and violent events.
Mercury continues its transit through Gemini, the 7th house of the USA chart. Mercury, the planet of Diplomacy, in its own sign, and affecting a number of the USA natal planets, is a hopeful sign for progress in negotiations with partner countries. But with Venus, planet of Agreement, under assault from both sides, it is unlikely that there will be an end of hostilities anywhere.

Mars enters Taurus, Mercury enters Gemini, Total Lunar Eclipse, Saturn goes Direct

2011-06-11T08:13:00.000-07:00

There are several notable Astrological Events in the Heavens this week:
Mars changes signs on Sunday, June 12: The planet of Action and Combat moves from its own sign Aries and enters Taurus, where it will be for the next 6 weeks. Mars joins up with Venus, already in Taurus, for the rest of this month. The two gender planets together generate Passion for Action. Taurus is a results-oriented sign, interested in getting Value for the Effort: the next few weeks should be productive on many levels.
Mercury changes signs on Monday, June 13: The planet of Communication and Business Transactions enters its own sign Gemini, where it remains for only two weeks. Mercury is the planet of Reason, in the sign of Diplomacy, favors coming to agreements, making deals, etc.
The Full Moon, and a Total Lunar Eclipse, occurs Wednesday, June 15, @ 0 deg. Sagittarius. This culminates the energy of the lunar month Jyeshta, but occurs just over the line in the following lunar sign Mula. This point in the zodiac, 0 deg. Sagittarius, is known as Gandant, the border between two incompatible elements: a water sign (Scorpio) and a fire sign (Sagittarius). A Planet located here tends to cause trouble.
Total Eclipses signify upcoming changes and major events. The event does not usually occur at the time of the eclipse, but rather later, when another planet subsequently transits the degree of the eclipse, or opposite to it. Venus will transit opposite the eclipse point when it enters Gemini on June 30. Mars will likewise transit opposite the eclipse point when it enters Gemini on July 25. These dates, as well as the days immediately before and after, should be watched for significant developments. The effects of Mars are particularly suspect, as it is the planet most likely to create crisis, especially those of a sudden and violent nature. (Get more Details by listening to a discussion on the weekly radio show, posted on Monday afternoon, June 13)
This week Saturn Goes Direct @ 16 deg. Virgo. The planet of Obligation, Limitation, Structure, the Established Order, which has been retrograde in Virgo since the end of last January, now returns to normal forward progress in the Zodiac. This celestial event improves the potential for progress to be made in various areas that have stubbornly resisted change over the past months.

Venus in Taurus, Uranus opposite Saturn

2011-06-04T08:49:00.000-07:00

Today, Saturday June 4, Venus enters Taurus. While changing signs a planet is weak. Venus as the significator of Finance gave markets a shock June 2 -June 3. But once it is secure in its own sign Taurus this coming week, Venus will give more positive results in the Financial Sector. Taurus is the sign of Value and Tangible Worth. Thus there is more focus on the Real Value of things while Venus remains in Taurus through June. Venus as the planet of Agreement in practical Taurus will help to bring about Realistic Compromise during the coming weeks.
Saturn, retrograde @ 16 deg. Virgo, has been opposed by Uranus, now @ 10 deg. Pisces, for the past few months. Saturn the planet of Structures is challenged by Uranus the planet of Sudden Unexpected Change, i.e., Disruption and Disaster: numerous natural disasters have occurred throughout the world in the past months. This energy pattern is reaching its peak intensity now that Saturn is coming to the end of its retrograde phase, a time when the planet appears to hang motionless in the Heavens.
Saturn is also the planet of The Established Order, and in the world of humans, that means long-term governments, which have been in difficulty all this year due to the opposition of Uranus, the planet of Revolution. The situation in various countries with oppressed populations battling entrenched dictators and institutions continues unabated during the next several weeks. On Thursday and Friday June 9-10, the waxing Moon will be in Virgo, activating the Saturn side of the opposition, adding more energy and liklihood for dramatic events.

Mercury and Venus in Taurus, New Moon in Taurus

2011-05-28T08:39:00.000-07:00

Mercury enters Taurus on Monday, May 30. Mercury will now separate from the influence of Mars for a couple of weeks, thereby improving Mercury's significations. The planet of Rationality and Reason does better in the pragmatic Earth sign Taurus.
Venus will join Mercury in Taurus on Saturday, June 4. By separating from Mars and entering its own sign, the significations of Venus will also show improvement for most of the month of June. Venus and Mercury together in Taurus is more favorable for rational discussion and finding compromise: the potential for Practical Agreements is increased. Mercury is the planet of Business Transactions, Venus is one of the Financial Planets, and Taurus is the sign of Worth and Value thus favoring Business Deals and the Financial Sector.
Mars stays with Jupiter in Aries until June 12, when it too moves into Taurus. Until then, the planet of Aggression plus the planet of Beliefs continues to encourage protests, demonstrations, impassioned speeches, etc.
The New Moon will be on Wednesday, June 1, @ 17 deg. Taurus. This begins the lunar month of Jyestha, named for the lunar sign of the Full Moon on June 15. Except this year the Full Moon will be just past Jyeshtha, @ 0 deg. Sagittarius, which is in the lunar sign Moola. The energy of this lunar month is compromised because the Full Moon will be a Total Lunar Eclipse, which will be at a particularly weak and problematical degree in the zodiac. The energy of this month is generally good for Mature Actions, Victory over Enemies, Use of Authority.

Venus conjunct Mars; Graha Yuda

2011-05-21T07:53:00.000-07:00

Venus will be exactly conjunct Mars on Monday, May 23, @ 15 deg. Aries. Venus moves faster than Mars and will pass Mars in the middle of Aries this week. The two planets can be seen with the naked eye just above the Eastern Horizon before Sunrise. Mercury and Jupiter are also close by: Jupiter a little higher up; Mercury a little closer to the horizon.
When two planets share the same degree they are in Graha Yuda, "Planetary War." Mars is the stronger of the two planets by virtue of being in its own sign Aries. Thus Mars overwhelms Venus: the significations of Venus suffer. This is not a good time for finding common ground or coming to agreement. Force (Mars) prevails over Compromise (Venus). Mars and Venus are in Graha Yuda from Saturday May 21 through Wendnesday May 23.
Mercury is still only a few degrees away from Mars; the planet of Reason and Rationality is likewise overwhelmed by the planet of Action. This three-planet combination is Impatient,Excited,Unreasonable, and Volatile. This energy pattern promotes Making Fast Decisions, but is also prone to Making Mistakes. Best course is to stick to routine activities this week. As Mercury pulls away from Mars its ability to be rational improves, especially after entering Taurus on May 30.
Mars with Jupiter in Aries is the planet of Aggression combining with the planet of Beliefs = Fighting for Your Beliefs. Mars and Jupiter have been together for a few months now, first in Pisces and now in Aries. The two gender planets, Venus plus Mars = Passion. Thus: the Fight for what you Believe gets Passionate. Plenty of that energy has been manifesting in the world lately, and there will not be any letup this week.

Scorpio Full Moon, Mercury conjunct Mars

2011-05-14T08:20:00.000-07:00

The Full Moon will be on Tuesday, May 17, @ 2 deg. Scorpio. This marks the culmination of the energies of the lunar month Vaishaka. The Full Moon occurs in the lunar sign Vishakha, known for Victory; the Accomplishment of the Goal. Since the Full Moon is in a Mars-ruled sign, Scorpio, and Mars is simultaneously strong in its other sign Aries, this Full Moon will be powerful for Actions.
The nearly Full Moon will create a lot of activation for Events on Sunday and Monday while it transits through Libra, opposite to and thus adding energy to the grouping of planets (Jupiter, Mercury, Venus, and Mars) in Aries. The planets in Aries form an energy package that demands swift and decisive action.
Mercury will be exactly conjunct Mars @ 13 deg. Aries on Friday May 20. As faster-moving Mercury advances in Aries it passes Venus on Monday and then overtakes Mars on Friday. All three planets are closely packed together this week, and can be seen along with Jupiter just before Sunrise on the Eastern Horizon. Mars in its own sign Aries is the strongest for effects. Mars gets encouragement from Jupiter. Mars planet of Combat + Jupiter planet of Beliefs makes people fight for their ideology. Mars overwhelms Venus and Mercury. The combination is not favorable for the significations of Venus or Mercury, i.e., don't expect rational and reasonable discussion (Mercury) or compromise and aggreement (Venus).

Jupiter, Venus, Mercury, and Mars in Aries; Graha Yuda

2011-05-07T07:37:00.000-07:00

Jupiter enters Aries on Sunday, May 8. By leaving Pisces Jupiter escapes from the restrictive influence of Saturn, which has opposed Jupiter from the other side of the zodiac for the past year. Jupiter also separates from disruptive Uranus, which remains behind in Pisces. Jupiter now joins Mars and Sun, already in Aries. These three planets are "friends" in Vedic Astrology, and in the proactive sign Aries they form a Dynamic Trio, poised for Action.
Venus and Mercury are exactly conjunct in the Heavens: for the next two weeks Venus and Mercury will be less than 1 degree apart. In Vedic Astrology this is called Grahu Yuda: Planetary War. The energies of the two planets are forced to combine, or fight, with each other. Currently Venus, being exalted in Pisces, has the upper hand: the planet of Pleasure and Entertainment prevails over the planet of Facts and Reason. During the past week the Media coverage of the assassination of Osama Bin Laden degenerated into hoopla and entertainment serving our purient interests, and had to compete with getting the facts straight with a rational clear-eyed assessment of the situation.
Venus and Mercury enter Aries together on Tuesday May 10. There they will join Jupiter in the first degree of Aries for Tuesday and Wednesday, adding more complication to the Graha Yuda. The overall effect is simultaneously extreme and confusing.
With so many planets together in one part of the zodiac, the significations of Aries are emphasized for the rest of May. The Pioneer Sign of the zodiac has plenty of energy for New Adventures, New Discoveries, New Projects. Jupiter's expansive quality encourages Mars to Leap Forward into Action. Hopefully Jupiter ("Guru") contributes some Wisdom to Mars' Actions. But Mars planet of War combining with Jupiter (Religion) also encourages Fighting for Beliefs. Now Venus joins in, adding Excitement and Passion. Meanwhile reasonable Mercury is completely overwhelmed by more powerful planets: the potential for Wise Decisions is Diminished and a Headlong Rush into Action predominates.
The overall pattern for the next few weeks is one of Optimism, Eagerness, Confidence, Independence...and a Willingness to Engage in Conflict if Opposed. Although the energy is favorable for starting new projects, there is a noticeable Lack of Reason and Caution.
The entry of a planet into the first degree of the zodiac is a special opportunity for asking for the help of that planet in your life. Jupiter, planet of Wisdom and Prosperity, passes through this point only once every 12 years. Thus, Sunday morning is an auspicious time for prayers and puja in favor of Jupiter (Sunday am in USA; Sunday evening in India). A simple ceremony is to light candle and incense and chant a mantra for Jupiter: "Aum Breem, Bri-hus-pa-tay namaha" for 108 times, while focusing on what you want Jupiter to help you with.

Aries New Moon, Mars in Aries, Nodes Change Signs

2011-04-30T07:46:00.000-07:00

The New Moon will be Monday, May 3, @ 18 deg. Aries. This marks the beginning of the Hindu month of Vaishaka, named for the nakshatra (lunar sign) of the Full Moon, Vishakha, on May 17. The lunar month carries the energy of Going Forth and Conquering the Enemy, Attaining Goals, and is good for Ceremonies and Celebrations.
Mars enters Aries on Tuesday May 3, just hours after the New Moon. Mars rules Aries; it's transit in this sign boosts all of Mars' significations. Mars contributes its forceful energy to the new lunar month. By leaving Pisces, Mars is no longer restrained by Saturn and no longer compromised by the energies of Jupiter, Venus, and Mercury, which remain in Pisces for another week. Mars joins with the Sun, already in Aries, a powerful combination of two Fire planets in a Fire Sign. The new energy pattern is strong for Independent Action, Seeking Challenges, and Pushing Aside any Obstacles. The downside is too much Impulsive, Hasty energy, missing the Details, being too Aggressive and Impatient. Mars wants Fast Results; Mars Needs Victory. Best use of the energy is to have projects to do that don't take much time to accomplish; careful of coming into conflict with others. The new energy pattern results in a big push to bring the various conflicts around the world to conclusion.
Rahu and Ketu are changing signs May 2-3: The Nodes of the Moon (crossover points of the apparent paths of the Sun and Moon in the Heavens) enter their new positions in the zodiac: Rahu leaves Sagittarius and enters Scorpio, Ketu leaves Gemini and enters Taurus (for details: get the new newsletter or listen to next week's podcast)

Mercury goes Direct, Mars conjunct Jupiter and Mercury

2011-04-23T08:02:00.000-07:00

The Mercury Retrograde period ends Saturday, April 23. Mercury will resume normal direct motion in the zodiac @ 18 deg. Pisces. It takes a week or so for the planet to get "back up to speed" so the problems of Mercury Retrograde (delays, miscommunications, etc.) can still linger for several more days.
Mars is now advancing into the late degrees of Pisces, joining forces with Jupiter. The exact conjunction of the two planets will be on April 30 @ 28 deg. Pisces. Jupiter, planet of Hope, encourages Mars, planet of Action, to push forward. Jupiter's Optimism plus Mars' need for Results leads to disregard for the Reality of the situation, symbolized by Saturn, opposite in Virgo.
Mercury, the planet of Logic and Data, is still heavily influenced by two of Astrology's "Natural Malefics," Mars and Saturn. The problem of getting the facts straight, and of getting the truth of the situation, persist into May. The association of Mars with Mercury puts the planet of Action and Impatience together with the planet of Thought leading to Hasty Decisions. Simultaneously the planet of Caution and Delay, Saturn, is putting the brakes on by being directly across on the other side of the zodiac. Saturn has its own agenda as well, and being retrograde, strongly opposes the Change and Progress that Mars and Mercury desire. The whole setup keeps up the continued Tension and Sense of Crisis until Mars moves into Aries in the first week of May.
Meanwhile, Venus is separating from its conjunction with Uranus in early Pisces and advancing into direct opposition with Saturn (the exact opposition will be April 30). Venus has a positive effect on Saturn's significations: the planet of Agreement helps the planet of The Established Order to come to Compromise giving some potential to resolve dilemnas during the coming week. But Saturn the planet of Realism and Restriction seriously limits Venus' significations of Value and Finance, with the Harsh Realities and Real Costs of the Global Monetary Situation.

Libra Full Moon, Mars Opposite Saturn, Mars conjunct Mercury, Venus conjunct Uranus

2011-04-16T09:16:00.000-07:00

There are a lot of intense combinations of planets this week creating energy patterns prone to crisis and violence.
The Full Moon is on Sunday, April 17, @ 3 degrees Libra. This marks the culmination of the lunar month Chaitra, named for the lunar sign of the full Moon, Chittra. The Full Moon does not directly interact with planetary combinations in the Heavens, but by being in Libra it transfers its energy to Venus, which has entered Pisces, and therefore contributes energy to the other planetary combinations.
Mars is exactly opposite Saturn on Monday, April 18. The planet of Aggression, Conflict, and Destruction opposes the planet of The Established Order. The planet of Order and Control, Saturn, is in conflict with the planet of Action. Saturn is also retrograde, therefore strong and ultra-resistent to change. This planetary pattern has been getting stronger over the past several weeks. The energy of Mars is boosted by its association with Jupiter, planet of Hope and Belief, and now picks up the energy of Venus, which together with Mars adds Passion. The pressure on various Dictators and representatives of the Establishment gets no letup in the coming week. Likewise, those representing the Established Order do all they can to remain in power.
Mars is exactly conjunct Mercury @ 19 degrees Pisces on Tuesday April 19. Mercury represents Information and Reason and Decisions. But Mercury is retrograde and in a sign ruled by the emotions, Pisces. Now Mars, with its Impatience and need for Action, directly combines with a disadvantaged Mercury, leading to more Mistakes and Bad Decisions. The Mercury-Mars combination is simultaneously directly opposite Saturn, leading to a sense of Crisis. This week it is best to stick to routine actions, and avoid having to make any important decisions. Likewise, information and data, and the Media, tend to be wrong especially in intitial reports. This planetary pattern breaks up in early May.
Venus will be exactly conjunct Uranus on Friday, April 22, @ 8 degrees Pisces. The planet of Values and Finances combines with the planet of Sudden Unexpected Events indicating a volatile week for the markets. Venus also represents the Entertainment Business and therefore Celebrities, combined with Uranus = some surprising probably scandalous news from that quarter.

Jupiter conjunct Mercury, Venus enters Pisces

2011-04-09T08:26:00.000-07:00

Planets in Pisces are getting closer together this week: the energy pattern intensifies. Mars advances in Pisces and closes in on Jupiter. Meanwhile Mercury, traveling retrograde, is "backing up" towards Jupiter and Mars from the other end of Pisces. Saturn, also retrograde, creeps along in Virgo on the other side of the Heavens. Mars gets closer to exact opposition to Saturn this week, intensifying the energy pattern of Tension and Crisis.
Jupiter will be conjunct Retrograde Mercury @ 23 degrees Pisces on Monday, April 11: Jupiter is the planet of Truth and therefore Beliefs, strong in its own sign Pisces. Mercury is the planet of Data and Logic, and is disadvantaged by being Retrograde in Pisces, its sign of debilitation. Jupiter overwhelms the weakened Mercury: Logic takes a back seat to Ideology, as has been evident in the Budget Fight in the US Federal Government. Mercury the planet of Information and Media can't deliver clear and correct reports: Mistakes get made: the wrong people get bombed. Meanwhile Mars, planet of Aggression, contributes its forcefulness for Confrontation and Argument with more reliance on Belief than Reason.
Venus enters Pisces on Friday, April 15. The planet of Peace and Agreement is considered Exalted in Pisces. But not much can be done with the trainwreck of planets already in this sign. Instead we get Venus + Mars =Passion, adding more fuel to the fire.
Sun enters Aries on Thursday, Friday 14: The planet of Power and Authority, and therefore Governments, is exalted in this sign. Aries is a sign owned by Mars; the entry of the Sun into Aries adds more power for Mars. The energy for Solutions using Force is increased for the next four weeks.
The Moon enters Virgo on Friday, April 15, adding more energy on the Saturn side of the Mars vs. Saturn equation, which will increase the potential for Violent Events next Friday and through the weekend.

New Moon in Pisces, Mars conjunct Uranus

2011-04-02T07:17:00.000-07:00

Sunday, April 3, will be the New Moon, @ 19 deg. Pisces. This marks the beginning of the Lunar Month Chaitra, named for the nakshatra (lunar sign) Chitra, that the full Moon falls in, on April 17.
The birth of this lunar month shows many troubling planetary combinations, indicating a difficult month overall.
The New Moon will be directly opposite Saturn, which is Retrograde in Virgo. The energy of the month is Directly Opposed to the Established Order, which itself is Strongly Resistant to Change, indicated by Saturn's retrograde condition.
The New Moon is conjunct within a couple of degrees of Jupiter, planet of Belief and Optimism, which is strong in its own sign Pisces, the sign of Hope and Faith. Jupiter's Belief and Optimism is likewise being Opposed by Saturn, "The Reality Check Planet."
Meanwhile, Mercury the planet of Reason and Logic, is now also retrograde, and still at the borderline of Pisces and Aries, hence gandant, i.e. very weak and malefic. Jupiter's Hope and Belief Overwhelm any potential for Logic and Reasonableness from Mercury.
Mars will be exactly conjunct Uranus on Sunday, April 3, @ 7 deg. Pisces. The planet of Confrontation, War, and Destruction conjoins with the planet of Sudden Unexpected Events; an energy pattern prone to Disasters, Explosions, Unintended Consequences. Being coincident with the New Moon, this energy pattern also carries through the lunar month.
The overall prognosis is not good. Some of the results can already be seen: The Hope and Optimism of Jupiter vs. the Saturn Reality of a rather grave situation in Japan. The energy of a retrograde Mercury manifesting through misinterpreting, even misrepresenting, the data from radiation monitors enhancing the potential for an even greater disaster, indicated by the conjunction of Mars and Uranus. Meanwhile in the Middle East and Northern Africa countries, the energy for Violent Revolution (Uranus plus Mars) increases as the Established Order (Saturn) refuses to change and fights to maintain the Status Quo.
As the month progresses, Mars comes closer to direct opposition to Saturn. The Full Moon will coincide with an almost exact Mars-Saturn Opposition, and with retrograde Mercury simultaneously conjunct Mars, indicating an intensification and culmination of the build-up of events in the middle of the month.

Mercury Retrograde

2011-03-26T08:40:00.000-07:00

Mercury turns Retrograde on Wednesday, March 30, @ 0 deg. Aries. The planet of Communications appears to stand still in the Heavens, and then starts to move backwards through the Zodiac for the next three weeks (until April 23). Mercury Retrograde periods are well known for causing problems related to Mercury's significations. Everyday Activities tend to run into more snags than usual. Delays, Misunderstandings, Misinterpretation, Miscommunication, etc. are common.
Mercury is the planet of Business Transactions, so be especially careful of any money transfer: check your math, careful filling out the deposit slip, count your change, etc.
Mercury is the planet that signifies Equipment; equipment failures, and especially problems with communications equipment, computers, etc. tend to occur and cause more trouble than usual.
Mercury is the planet of The Media: the News will have more mistakes in it than usual.
New Projects begun while Mercury is retrograde will be perpetually plagued by Problems and Delays, etc. (i.e., the new project has Mercury retrograde in its birth chart). Therefore it is best to put off initiating important new work until Mercury returns to normal motion (after April 23).
This Mercury retrograde begins with Mercury at the doorstep of Aries, literally in the first degree of the zodiac. The borderline between two signs is considered a weak placement, and especially if the two signs are of incompatible elements, in this case the water sign Pisces and the Fire sign Aries (see previous post).
Mercury will be conjunct Mars during this Mercury Retrograde Period. Mars has entered Pisces as of Friday March 25. Mercury "backs into" Pisces on Saturday, April 2. The addition of Mars' energy adds an element Haste and Impatience, which results in even more Mistakes. With Mars, there is more tendency for Anger and Argument when things go wrong. Therefore it is worthwhile to Repeat Instructions, Get Verification of Data, Check to make sure that What Was Heard was What Was Intended, and be ready to counter your own or someone else's temper.
Due to Mars being conjunct Uranus, the energy for a "Blow Up" is very strong; i.e., the potential for Dramatic Events is strong for the next three weeks. Mars is also in Square Aspect to Rahu and Ketu (nodes of the Moon, the eclipse points) which adds Tension and creates the potential for difficult situations. Moon enters Pisces on Friday, April 1, piling on even more energy for events at the end of the week.

Full Moon opposite Uranus, Venus conjunct Neptune, Mars conjunct Uranus

2011-03-19T08:03:00.000-07:00

The Full Moon is on Saturday, March 19, @ 4 deg. Virgo, approx 11 am PDT. This marks the culmination of energy for the lunar month of Phalguna. This Full Moon will be within one degree of exact opposition to Uranus, and simultaneously within one degree of square to Rahu and Ketu (nodes of the Moon: the eclipse points). The Full Moon is also within one degree of Square Aspect to last December's total lunar eclipse point. Additonally, this Full Moon is unusually close to the Earth, therefore stronger than normal for producing effects. The energy pattern indicates a lot of Tension this weekend, with a high probability of Sudden Events, Changes, and even Violence.
Venus enters Aquarius on Tuesday, March 22, and immediately comes under the influence of Neptune, currently transiting @ 5 deg. Aquarius. Venus is one of the Guidance Planets, Aquarius is the sign of Social Movements, and Neptune is Dreams and Idealism. The dreams of people everywhere to have a better life in society are amplified by this combination. The exact conjunction of Venus and Neptune will be March 26. While changing signs Monday and Tuesday, the significations of Venus are Weakened: Financial Markets are Vulnerable, Agreements are Uncertain, Romance is Questioned.
Mars enters Pisces on Friday, March 25, and immediately comes under the influence of Uranus, transiting at 6 deg. Pisces. The combination of the planet of Action, Confrontation, War and Destruction, with the planet of Sudden Unexpected Events increases the potential for Violence, both in Human Affairs and the Natural World. The situation with global movements, whether social or geological, gets intensified with this energy pattern. The two planets are in the water sign Pisces= sudden destructive Ocean and Weather Events. The exact conjunction of Mars and Uranus will be April 3. While changing signs Thurs-Friday, the planet of Action is Uncertain: not a good time to be starting anything of importance. In any case, Mars combining with Uranus over the next few weeks leads to Unexpected Consequences; best to stick to routine activities.

Uranus Square Nodes, Mars aspecting Saturn, Mercury conjunct Jupiter

2011-03-12T09:43:00.000-08:00

During the Past Week, and continuing this week, Rahu and Ketu, the lunar Nodes, are in square aspect to Uranus. The Moon's nodes are the cross-over points of the apparent paths of the Sun and the Moon as seen from Earth. These are the eclipse points; in Vedic Astrology they are given status and power almost equal to the planets. It has been noticed that if there is a planet at the mid-point between the nodes, i.e., in 90 degree aspect to the two cross-over points, that planet is put under a lot of tension. Uranus is the planet of Sudden Unexpected Events, and its position now a 5 degrees Pisces puts it exactly in 90 degree aspect relative to the nodes. This has been a contributing factor for Dramatic Events over the past week, ranging from Human Activites to Earth Events.
Mars is now in exact 8th house (210 degree) aspect to Saturn. In Vedic Astrology Mars is considered to send its full influence from its position to the 8th sign forward in the zodiac. The power of the Planet of War and Destruction influencing Saturn the planet of Established Order is reinforced by Mars transiting through Saturn's sign Aquarius, while simultaneously aspecting Saturn, currently retrograde, @ 21 degrees Virgo. Saturn, being retrograde, digs in its heels and tries to maintain the existing order. The energy shows up as various fights attempting to overthrow the existing government in several countries. This energy pattern continues strong through the coming week.
Mercury is exactly conjunct Jupiter on Tuesday, March 15 @ 17 deg. Pisces: The planet of Ideas and Logic is together with the planet of Enlargement and Optimism in Pisces, where Mercury is weak and Jupiter is strong (in its own sign). This results in Hopeful, but Illogical Ideas. Simultaneously, Mercury and Jupiter are opposite to Saturn, the Reality Check planet. The Optimistic Big Ideas of Overcoming Ghaddafi with Military Intervention, or Continuing to pass Deficit Enlarging Budgets, come face to face with The Reality of the Situation.

Comment: Would presence of Jupiter in Pisces create a neechbhanga yoga, cancelling out the debilitation of Mercury? Thanks.
Answer; Neechabanga, i.e., cancellation of debilitation (weakness of Mercury) occurs by several factors. But the nature of Mercury in Pisces remains the same. Mercury in Pisces is the planet of Logic and Discrimination in the sign of Faith and Universal Connection. This isn't good for Mercury, except perhaps to instill more unrealistic hope and optimism.

Mercury enters Pisces

2011-03-05T07:36:00.000-08:00

On Sunday, March 6, Mercury enters Pisces. Mercury is considered debilitated, i.e., weakened, in this sign. Pisces is one of the water signs, based on emotions and intuition, whereas Mercury is the planet of the Rational Mind, therefore Logic. Mercury cannot express itself so well in Pisces. Mercury moves swiftly, normally taking less than 3 weeks to transit through a sign. But this time Mercury will be in Pisces for more than 2 months: at the end of March, after going all of the way through Pisces, Mercury will turn retrograde, and go "backwards" through Pisces for three weeks, then turn direct, and transit Pisces for a third time, finally leaving the sign on May 10.
As soon as Mercury enters Pisces, its energy combines with that of Uranus, lurking at 5 degrees of the sign. Uranus the planet of Sudden Events, combined with Mercury planet of Communications, can give us Unexpected News. The exact conjunction will be Wednesday, March 9.
Mercury is also combining with Jupiter, which has been in Pisces for nearly a year. Jupiter represents the energy of Expansion and Increase, and with Mercury the planet of Mind = Big Ideas. Jupiter is also the planet of Wisdom and Truth, and Uranus is the planet of Sudden Realization; when combined with Mercury and the Piscean Intuition this 3-planet combination provides Inspiration and Enlightenment: the potential of enough minds (and the Media) arriving at some realization over the world's current problems during this coming week.

Venus in 2nd house of USA, New Moon in Aquarius

2011-02-26T08:20:00.000-08:00

Venus is now in Capricorn, which is the 2nd house of the USA chart. Venus is the planet of Finance, and the 2nd house of a country's chart signifies the Financial Resources of the country. Capricorn is the sign of Pragmatic Actions and Practical Goals. During the coming weeks the nation will try to come to grips with its financial crisis and hopefully find a way out.
Meanwhile, Mars, Neptune, the Sun, and Mercury are still together in Aquarius, the sign of Social Principles, Group Action, and Revolutions. The combination of these planets is not harmonious (see previous post). The turmoil shows up in several areas, from revolutions in North African countries to Workers' Protests in various states in the USA. The energy pattern continues through this week, although now Mercury is pulling away from Neptune and Mars and thus decreasing the likelihood of Deception in Communications. The unfriendly aspect of Mars on Saturn also continues, indicating no letup in disruptions to the Established Order.
The New Moon will be on Friday, March 4, @ 19 deg. Aquarius. This marks the beginning of the Hindu month of Phalguna, named for the nakshatra (lunar sign) that the Full Moon falls in, on March 19. The New Moon is together with Mars: the energy of the planet of Action, Confrontation and Violence is an influence on this lunar month, same as the previous one.

Mercury and Mars conjunct Neptune, Venus enters Capricorn

2011-02-19T09:22:00.000-08:00

Mercury, Mars, and Neptune will all be closely conjunct in Aquarius, within 1 degree of each other, Saturday through Tuesday, February 19-22. Mars, the planet of Action and Aggression combines with Mercury the planet of Logic and Communication while both planets interact with Neptune, planet of Dreams, Confusion and Deception, in the sign of the Social Revolution.
The energy pattern is loaded with problems, resulting in Unintended Consequences arising from Forceful Implementation of Social Idealism. Mars, planet of Attack, is with Neptune, planet of Deception, = "Sneak Attack." We need look no further than the recent events throughout the Muslim world for examples. Also: Mars, planet of Aggression, is with Mercury, planet of The Media, indicating problems for everything from the Internet to Journalists. Neptune with Mercury brings in an element of Confusion, and even potential for Deliberate Deception, to Media Reports. The participating planets start to separate from each other, lessening the intensity somewhat, by the end of the week.
In the USA chart, the combination of Mars-Mercury-Neptune is getting closer to the USA natal Moon, in the 3rd house of the chart. The Moon is the significator of The Public; the 3rd house is Communications, Transportation, Everyday Survival. Mars influencing natal Moon brings Aggressive Emotions, Anger, etc. The Public is experiencing an Attack, and the Media is Excited and Involved. The energy is currently being expressed in the USA as The Public Sector Unions vs. the Government of Wisconsin, and by the Republicans in the USA Congress making attempts to destroy various popular Federal Programs that benefit the People.
Venus enters Capricorn on Thursday, Feb. 24. The planet of Compromise and Agreements leaves Sagittarius, the Self Righteous sign of Personal Truth, and starts expressing itself through Capricorn, sign of Practical Results. This energy pattern is more favorable for Negotiations and Agreements, but since Venus is a comparatively mild planet, it doesn't necessarily overcome the energy of Mars in Aquarius.
Saturn is Retrograde in Virgo: the planet of The Established Order is going "backwards" in the Zodiac, indicating Delay and Resistence to Change. Mars, transiting in Saturn's sign Aquarius, is affecting Saturn with its 8th house (210 degree) aspect, considered a full force aspect in Vedic Astrology. The Established Order is threatened by Mars' Aggression. The Ruling Class and Governments are under attack. As Mars advances through Aquarius the influence of Mars on Saturn gets stronger. The aspect will be exact in Mid-March. At the end of March, when Mars moves into Pisces, it will be directly opposing Saturn: there will be no letup in events any time soon.
(Note: in Vedic Astrology, Saturn rules Aquarius. In modern Western Astrology, the rulership of Aquarius is assigned to Uranus).

Mars and Mercury enter Aquarius, Full Moon in Leo

2011-02-12T08:38:00.000-08:00

Mars leaves Capricorn and enters Aquarius on Tuesday, Feb.15: The planet of Action in the sign of the Social Revolutionary promises more Events in the MidEast and elsewhere. Mars will immediately encounter Neptune, transiting @ 4 degrees of Aquarius: the planet of Action and Combat connects with the planet of Dreams, Idealism, the Irrational, and Confusion. Social Idealism runs high, but is simultaneously Unrealistic.
Mercury enters Aquarius on Friday, Feb.18: The planet of Communications, Logical Thinking, and Everyday Decisions has been pursuing Mars in the Heavens, and will catch up to Mars just when the two of them encounter Neptune in another week.
Mercury combined with Mars gives Fast Thinking and Impulsive Decisions, but is also prone to Argument. Mercury planet of Logic combining with Neptune planet of Dreams is good for Idealistic Thinking and the Imagination, but tends to be Unrealistic. This energy pattern gets even stronger in another week when all three planets will be conjunct @ 4 deg. Aquarius.
The Full Moon will be in the early hours of Friday, February 18, @ 5 deg. Leo. This is the culmination of the lunar month of Magha, named for the lunar sign that symbolizes Lineage and Kings and Rulers. Continung the energy of the New Moon, which was conjunct Mars, this Full Moon will be directly opposite to Neptune and Mars in Aquarius, and occurs simultaneous with Mercury changing signs. The energy pattern of the month is Insistent and Forceful for Results, but simultaneously Unrealistic and even Confused. Best to be careful of any Hasty, Impulsive Need for Action this week and next, and a tendency to misinterpret things and become angry.

Venus conjunct Rahu

2011-02-05T09:11:00.000-08:00

Venus is exactly conjunct Rahu on Saturday, Feb. 5, @ 7 deg. Sagittarius. The planet of Agreements and Compromise combines with the significator of Ambition and Success, both in the sign of Ethics and Justice, indicating potential Progress towards a resolution in Egypt this week. Venus and Rahu are exactly conjunct the USA ascendant degree, indicating a major role for the USA in negotiations. But Rahu being an Eclipse Point, can "obscure" what it contacts, making outcomes less certain. Also, Saturn is Retrograde: the planet of the Established Order going Backwards in the Zodiac signifies the Established Order digging in its heels, further delaying a solution. Venus is also the planet of Celebrities, and Rahu =transformation: a major TV actor entered Rehab this week.
Uranus and Jupiter are sitll within a few degrees of each other in Pisces: the energy pattern of Extreme Weather Events, Hope for the Revolutionaries, and Unexpected Events in general continues this week. The Moon enters Pisces, Sunday Feb. 6, boosting the Uranus-Jupiter combination for More Surprises, and just in time for the Super Bowl.

Venus enters Sagittarius, Mercury enters Capricorn, New Moon in Capricorn

2011-01-29T09:30:00.000-08:00

Venus enters Sagittarius on Saturday, January 29: for the next few weeks the planet of Art, Pleasures, Agreements, Advice and Finance will transit through the sign of Beliefs, Ethics, and Philosophies. Sagittarius is a basically Postive sign and this transit should be mostly good, especially for the USA, which is a Sagittarius Rising nation. Venus will join with Rahu, the North Node of the Moon, "the Dragon's Mouth," indicating increased Desires and Ambitions having to do with Venus's significations. This can result in everything from a further Boost in the Finance Sector to Heddonistic Indulgence.
Mercury enters Capricorn on Sunday, January 30: the planet of Rational Thought in the sign of Practical Goals is also good, except that now Mercury will be with Mars, planet of Combat, which makes for Arguments. Mercury is in one of Saturn's signs, while Saturn is in Virgo, one of Mercury's signs. Two planets in each other's signs sets up a Parivartana Yoga; a combination where the two planets reinforce each other's energies. Thus Saturn, the Reality Check Planet, and Mercury the planet of Thinking, reinforce each other for more Realistic Decisions over the coming weeks.
The New Moon will be Wednesday, February 2, @ 19 deg. Capricorn. This begins the lunar month of Magha, named for the nakshatra (lunar sign) that the Full Moon falls in on Feb. 17. The energy of Magha connects with Government, Authority, and Lineage. These themes are already prominent in the news this past week. This New Moon is closely conjunct Mars, contributing a distinctly Mars flavor for the coming four weeks: more Conflict, Impatience, Reactivity, and The Demand for Results.

Saturn Retrograde

2011-01-22T09:16:00.000-08:00

This week, on Wednesday, Jan. 26, Saturn goes retrograde @ 24 deg. Virgo. Each year for 4-1/2 months Saturn appears to go backwards from its normal motion in the zodiac. Saturn will be retrograde until mid-June.
The significations of Saturn are affected. The planet of Structure and Organization moving in reverse indicates a time of Re-structuring and Re-organizing. It is a time of dealing with Unfinished Business, or Re-working something that isn't working right.
In your personal astrology chart: pay attention to the meanings of the house in the chart containing the sign Virgo. Saturn while Retrograde indicates Postponements and Setbacks, and Unforeseen Obligations and Responsibilities. Generally, it is not a favorable time for starting new projects or making much headway in the area of life it is affecting.
In the chart of the USA, Saturn is transiting in the 10th house, the house of the Ruler of the country, the Authority of the Government. In a democracy such as the USA, this represents the President and the Party in Power. Since the natal chart has Saturn in this position, the transit of Saturn in the USA chart is re-emphasizing its natal position. In Western Astrology this is termed "The Saturn Return". It is considered a time of Fateful Changes, which will set the course for the coming decades. But while Saturn is retrograde, the energy pattern is for Backing Up, Reconsidering, Re-examining; we can expect, as is already apparent from the political situation, that there will not be much forward-moving activity during the coming months.

Full Moon in Cancer, Mars Combust Sun

2011-01-15T09:01:00.001-08:00

The Full Moon will be on Wednesday, January 19, @ 5 degrees Cancer. This marks the culmination of the lunar month Paushya, considered an auspicious month in the Hindu calendar. This Full Moon will be opposite to Mars, which is currently transiting in Capricorn. While Mars and a powerful Moon are opposite each other during Wednesday and Thursday the Emotional Level is Extremely Reactive, prone to Excitement, Confrontation, and need for Physical Expression: be Careful of situations that would prompt an over-reaction.
Mars is conjunct the Sun, i.e., Combust, for the next several weeks. When a planet gets within 6 degrees of the Sun is becomes "invisible", incapable of being seen at night neither after sunset nor before sunrise. The significations of the planet are considered harmed due to being "burnt up" by the Sun. But simultaneously the Sun's energy and significations are enhanced by the other planet, in this case Mars. The Sun-Mars conjunction is a very forceful one, combining the planet of Action and Violence with the planet of Government and Authority. The combination for the next four weeks is in the pragmatic goal-oriented sign Capricorn, making the energy pattern purposeful, aimed at achieving results.
Comment: recently the news has been full of the "discovery" that Western Astrology's signs do not correspond with what is actually in the Heavens. This is not news to the Vedic Astrology community, which uses the Sidereal Zodiac, based on the actual obervable positions of the planets amongst the stars. Read this article for more on the difference between the Western (Tropical) Zodiac and the Vedic (Sidereal) Zodiac.

Mars enters Capricorn, Mercury enters Sagittarius

2011-01-08T08:51:00.001-08:00

Mars enters Capricorn January 8, Saturday. Mars is considered Exalted in this sign: the planet of Action and Results does well in the sign of Practical Goals and Acheivements. The next six weeks are more favorable for getting something accomplished.
In President Obama's astrology chart, Capricorn is the Ascendant. In this position Mars will also be affecting several of his natal planets. The planet of Action promises to keep him energized over the next several weeks. But Mars is also the planet of Conflict and Combat: while it transits through his first house and influences so many natal planets he will also experience the downside of Mars, keeping Mr. Obama embattled over the coming weeks.
Mercury changed signs, entering Sagittarius on January 7. The planet of Rational Thought and Logic will now manifest its energy through the sign of Truth, Law, and Beliefs. Since Sagittarius is a Fire Sign, its Truth is always from a Personal Point of View. Sagittarius fights against Other's Truth when it doesn't agree. We need look no further than the USA Congress over the coming weeks for expression of Mercury in Sagittarius.

New Moon with Mars, Jupiter conjunct Uranus

2011-01-01T08:54:00.000-08:00

The New Moon will be Tuesday, January 4, @ 19 deg. Sagittarius. The Full Moon will also be a Partial Solar Eclipse, which will not be visible in the USA. This lunation marks the beginning of the lunar month of Paushya, named for the nakshatra (lunar sign) Pushyami, that the Full Moon falls in (on January 19). Since Pushyami is considered one of the most auspicious signs in the lunar zodiac, this lunar month is positive for beginning new projects. The energy of the month is boosted by the New Moon being conjunct Mars, the planet of Action, which is still in Sagittarius for another week.
Meanwhile, Venus has now entered Scorpio (see previous post) which changes the expression of the planet of Love and Agreement from its former placement in Idealistic Harmony-seeking Libra to the more Restless, Secretive, Goal-oriented Scorpio.
In the chart of the USA, Scorpio is the 12th house of Hidden Actions. Venus transiting here for the next few weeks suggests Secret Dealings or Secret Agreements. Since Mercury, planet of the Media, is also in Scorpio, there is the potential for Scandal.
Jupiter and Uranus are exactly conjunct @ 3 deg. Pisces, on Tuesday, Jan. 4. For the past few weeks Jupiter the planet of Increase has been closely conjoined with Uranus the planet of Unexpected Events in a Water Sign giving the world Intense Weather Events and Flooding. This energy pattern continues through January and February, promising more problems from Mother Nature. Other types of manifestations of Jupiter+ Uranus include: Controversial Judicial Decisions, Hope and Optimism for Radical Factions, Sudden Changes in the Financial Sector (for more discussion on Jupiter and Uranus, get the current issue of the Astrology Newsletter).

Mercury goes Direct, Venus enters Scorpio

2010-12-25T08:44:00.000-08:00

Mercury ends its retrograde period on Wednesday, Dec. 29, @ 25 deg. Scorpio. After 3 weeks of apparent backwards motion, Mercury will slowly resume normal forward movement in the zodiac. The effects of Mercury Retrograde can still linger for a week or so while the planet gets back to normal progress in the Heavens. Therefore continue to be vigilant re communications, business transactions, etc.
Mercury will stay in Scorpio until January 8. The planet of Data and Information in the sign of Secrets and Research is good for Investigations, Analysis, etc. Since Mercury is the Media, it is expected that the news organizations, pundits, talking heads, etc. work on getting a better understanding by going back over the past year's events, as well as trying to analyze the future.
Mercury is the planet of Signatures. It is not recommended to sign anything while Mercury is in its Retrograde Phase. The U.S. Congress managed to pass and the president signed into law several key pieces of legislation in the past week. But due to Mercury being Retrograde at the time of signing, there will be Delays and Problems in putting the new laws into effect.
Venus will enter Scorpio on Saturday, January 1. After spending 4 months in its own sign Libra, Venus will be changing signs on New Year's Day. The planet of Love, Harmony, and Finance will enter the sign of Secrets and Investigations, where it will join with Mercury, planet of Information. The potential for a revelation about a scandal is high. Some potential events: Wikileaks will release its file on Bank of America.... or another secret celebrity love affair will hit the news.

Total Lunar Eclipse, Winter Solstice, Mercury enters Scorpio

2010-12-18T09:00:00.000-08:00

The Full Moon will be Tuesday, Dec.21, @ 5 degrees Gemini. This Full Moon will be a Total Lunar Eclipse, starting before Midnight PST, on Monday Dec.20. Eclipses signal changes coming, especially related to the part of the natal chart that the eclipse falls in. In the chart of the USA, the eclipse is in the 7th house of Relations with Other Countries, and nearly in exact opposition to the USA Ascendant Degree. The point of the eclipse is sensitive to subsequent transits for many months. Mars will transit through Gemini starting at the end of July 2011. There is a strong likelihood of Hostile Action with a Foreign Country at that time.
Tuesday, Dec.21 is the Winter Solstice. As seen from the Northern Hemisphere, the Sun reaches its lowest point relative to the Southern Horizon. The solstice as well as the days before and after are considered Weak and therefore Unfavorable for initiating any important projects.
Mercury,still in Retrograde motion, backs into Scorpio Wednesday, Dec.22. The borderline between a Water sign (Scorpio) and a Fire sign (Sagittarius) is called Gandant and is a point of weakness. A planet transiting through one of these parts of the zodiac becomes ineffectual. The significations of Mercury will suffer this week. It is a poor time for Communications, Transactions, or for Signing anything. Along with the other factors operating in the coming days (eclipse, winter solstice), this week is unfavorable for doing anything of importance.

Mercury conjunct Mars conjunct Pluto conjunct Rahu

2010-12-11T08:34:00.000-08:00

Mercury, Mars, Pluto, and Rahu are all closely packed together in the sign Sagittarius during this week. The energy pattern is very powerful for Transformative Events.
Mars, the planet of Action and Aggression, together with Pluto, a planet with a Shiva-like quality of Destruction-Transformation, can create Violent Events. Rahu (one of the eclipse points) also has a transformational quality. Mercury is the planet of Communication, therfore Data, Information, and News. Mercury is retrograde presently (see previous post), i.e., not behaving normally. Mercury is also the planet of Business and Business Transactions, as well as The Internet, all of which have been Under Attack (Mars) during the past week. This energy pattern intensifies over the coming week.
Mars will be exactly conjunct Pluto and Mercury on Monday, Dec.13, @ 10 deg. Sagittarius, with Rahu close by @ 8 degrees. Mercury, being retrograde, will back up to and exactly conjunct Rahu on Thursday, Dec. 16. All of this action is happening within a couple of degrees of the Ascendant Degree of the USA Chart, indicating strong potential for "Game-Changer" type events for this country.
The Moon will transit through Pisces and add Activation to the Uranus-Jupiter conjunction, on Monday and Tuesday, Dec. 13-14. This energy pattern for Sudden, Unexpected events, connected with the Significations of Jupiter, together with the Mercury/Pluto/Mars conjunction happening in Jupiter's sign Sagittarius, sets the stage for major happenings on Monday and Tuesday.

Jupiter enters Pisces, New Moon in Scorpio, Mercury Retrograde

2010-12-04T10:20:00.000-08:00

Jupiter returns to Pisces on Sunday, December 5: after over a month being "stuck" in the last degree of Aquarius, Jupiter returns to its own sign Pisces this week, where it will be transiting until early May 2011. Jupiter's significations are boosted by this position, as are the significations of Pisces.
As soon as Jupiter enters Pisces it will be in conjunction with Uranus, which is now at 2 degrees Pisces. The combination of Uranus, planet of Rebellion, with Jupiter, planet of Faith, gives renewed Hope to the Revolutionaries. Jupiter is the energy of Expansion, combined with Uranus the planet of Sudden Events, in the water sign Pisces, increases the potential for Extreme Weather and Ocean Events over the coming months. Jupiter is also Law, therefore Judges, and Uranus as "The Unexpected" will show up as more Controversial Decisions from the Courts in the coming weeks.
Mars, transiting in Jupiter's sign Sagittarius, will once again influence Jupiter through is forward square aspect. The energy of Mars, planet of War and Aggression, in inimical aspect to the Jupiter-Uranus combination, presents a powerful potential for Violence during the coming week.
The New Moon will be on Sunday, December 5, @ 19 degrees Scorpio. This marks the beginnning of the lunar month of Margshirsh, named for Mrigrashira, the nakshatra (lunar sign) of the Full Moon, on Dec. 21. The Dec. 21 Full Moon will be a Total Lunar Eclipse, therefore tainting the lunar month with some weakness for accomplishing anything significant.
Mercury will go Retrograde on Friday, December 10, @ 11 degrees Sagittarius. This Merc Retro period will be highly problematical, because the planet of Rational Thought while "backwards" in the Heavens will simultaneously be conjunct with Mars, the planet of Combat. The usual problems of Merc Retro periods, i.e., Delays, Misunderstandings, Mistaken Communications, etc., will be Aggravated by the Forcefull Impatient Energy of Mars. The potential for Confrontations, Angry Reactions, Argument, etc. is high. Since this is happening in the Fire Sign Sagittarius, which is known for Self-Righteous Defense of its own point of view, the likelihood for contentious debate is increased. Mercury will be retrograde through Dec. 29. (for more details, get the current issue of the Astrology Newsletter).

Mars enters Sagittarius

2010-11-27T08:02:00.000-08:00

Monday, Nov. 29, Mars will enter Sagittarius in the Sidereal Zodiac. The new position of Mars changes the planetary pattern in a number of ways, giving rise to a multitude of effects.
Mars in Sagittarius puts the planet of Aggression and Combat in a Fire Sign which has a reputation for Not Backing Down from a Confrontation. Sagittarius is the sign of Philosophies and Beliefs expressed from a Personal Point of View, i.e., Self- Righteous and Arrogant. The energy pattern is to Defend One's Beliefs, with Force.
While changing signs Nov. 28-30, Mars is Gandant: a planet transiting from a Water Sign (Scorpio) into a Fire Sign is like going through a "pot hole" in the Zodiac. Since Mars is the planet of Action and a natural malefic in Vedic Astrology, this is a potentially dangerous situation.
As soon as Mars enters Saggitarius it is in a square aspect to Uranus, which is transiting in the early degrees of Pisces. The planet of Action and Combat is affecting the planet of Sudden Changes. This increases the potential for explosive events during the coming week.
Mars entering Sagittarius will immediately join Mercury, which entered the sign last week. The association of Mars with Mercury puts the planet of Aggression together with the planet of Communication, Reason and Ideas, making for Hasty Decisions, Arguments, and generally Bad Communication. Mercury represents The Media which will be especially Exciteable and Belligerent.
When Mars leaves Scorpio it will free up Venus, which has been suffering from a papakatari yoga created by Mars in Scorpio and Saturn in Virgo. This is good news, since while it is still transiting in Libra Venus will no longer have it's energy "cut off" and will be better able to function in making possible Agreements and Compromise.
In the chart of the USA, Mars entering Sagittarius puts it in the Ascendant of the chart, immediately opposite to the USA natal Mars, and simultaneously opposite to and affecting all of the USA natal Gemini planets. Thus the Mars transit has a strong influence on this country for Aggressive War-like Actions during the coming weeks.
Mars will be in Sagittarius for 6 weeks, until January 8.

Full Moon in Taurus, Mercury enters Sagittarius

2010-11-20T09:22:00.000-08:00

The Full Moon will be Sunday, Nov. 21, @ 5 deg. Taurus. This is the culmination of the energies of the lunar month of Kartika, good for Defeat of the Enemy. This Full Moon will be opposite to the Mars-Mercury conjunction in Scorpio; the exact opposition will be Monday, Nov. 22. The Full Moon energizes the combination of Mars and Mercury indicating Impulsive Speech, Arguments, and Conflict.
Mercury will change signs and enter Sagittarius on Thursday, Nov. 25. Mercury's significations will benefit when the planet escapes the influence of Mars. But the relief will be short-lived: Mars will also enter Sagittarius 4 days later, on November 29; the planet of Aggression and Conflict will then resume its association with the planet of Reason and Communications.

Venus goes Direct, Jupiter goes Direct, Mercury conjunct Mars

2010-11-13T08:46:00.000-08:00

Thursday, November 18, Venus and Jupiter will both return to normal forward motion in the zodiac. Jupiter, planet of Wisdom, Prosperity, Judgement, etc., has been "traveling backwards" in the Heavens since last July. Venus, planet of Romance, Sociability, Finance, Guidance, etc., has been "in reverse" since Oct. 9. The retrograde motion of a planet delays and distorts the significations of that planet. When the planet resumes normal Direct Motion amongst the stars its energy pattern likewise returns to normal.
However, for a while longer, Jupiter and Venus are still at a disadvantage for other reasons: Jupiter @ 29 degrees Aquarius, is "stuck" at the borderline between two signs, Aquarius and Pisces; its energies are divided and not able to manifest clearly. Thus Wisdom and Judgement will likewise be divided for the next several weeks, until Jupiter is fully into Pisces in the 2nd week of December. Meanwhile Venus @ 3 deg. Libra, is "trapped" between two malefic planets: Saturn is in Virgo, the sign prior to Venus, while Mars is still in Scorpio, the sign after Venus. This is called "Papakatari" in Vedic Astrology; the trapped planet's energies are unable to manifest fully. This condition for Venus continues until Mars leaves Scorpio at the end of November.
Saturn's sextile aspect on Mars is exact Saturday-Monday, Nov.13-15. The planet of Limitation is restraining the planet of Action, making for a lot of Frustration, as has been evident during the past week with the G-20 meeting in Seoul. This energy pattern is problematic for making progress, and will continue to be strong this week.
Mercury is conjunct Mars this week; the exact conjunction will be @ 23 deg. Scorpio on Saturday Nov. 20. The planet of Reason and Rational Decision is heavily influenced by the planet of Aggression and Combat, further contributing to the frustration and resultant anger caused by Saturn's influence on Mars. Mercury is the planet of Communication, therefore The Media, and Mars is Impatient, resulting in Speaking before Thinking. Not much hope for reasonable discussions during the coming week.

Mars and Mercury in Scorpio

2010-11-06T08:27:00.000-07:00

Mars and Mercury will be together in Scorpio for the next three weeks, until Nov. 25.
The planet of Action and the planet of Information combine in a sign known for Secrets, Inquiry, Investigations, and Research. Since Mars is in a sign that it rules, the significations of Mars are powerful. Mars is the planet of War and Destruction. Mercury is the planet of Communication and therefore the Media. Attacks on and by the Media are to be expected. The energy for Disagreement and Arguement is strong. Scorpio is a sign that does not back down from its position.
Additionally, Saturn currently in Virgo is sending its energy to Scorpio via Saturn's special "3rd house aspect" (60 degrees, or sextile aspect) which is considered a full-force aspect in Vedic Astrology. Saturn's controlling energy tends to aggravate Mars, creating frustration and a build-up of pressure that threatens to "blow." This energy pattern can manifest on the Earth plane, such as a volcanic eruption (as Indonesia has already experienced), and other forms of Sudden Violence (such as bombs in Mosques, etc.). In Human Relations, it is something to be careful of.
In your personal astrology chart, the Actions and Relationships related to the house containing the sign Scorpio need to be closely monitored during the next three weeks.

Jupiter enters Aquarius, Mercury enters Scorpio, Libra New Moon

2010-10-30T08:31:00.000-07:00

Jupiter "backs into" Aquarius in the sidereal zodiac on Sunday, Oct. 31. Jupiter is nearing the end of its retrograde period. The planet of Truth and Wisdom is at a disadvantage while moving in reverse and simultaneously changing signs. Therefore this is not a good week for making decisions.
Mercury will enter Scorpio on Thursday, November 4. Mercury will then be with Mars, already in Scorpio, for three weeks until Nov. 25. Mercury in Scorpio is good for Research, Insight, and Investigations, but Mercury, planet of Communications, with Mars, planet of Aggression, tends towards Anger and Argument.
The New Moon will be Friday, November 5, at 19 degrees Libra. This begins the lunar month of Karttika. It also marks the beginning of Diwali, the Five day Hindu "Festival of Lights," celebrating Lord Rama's Homecoming.
November 2: Election Day in the USA: the Moon (significator of The Public) will start out at the end of Leo, and be opposite to retrograde Jupiter. By the evening the Moon will have moved into Virgo, and be opposite to Uranus in the Heavens. Uranus's influence on the Moon will give Excitement, Surprises, and Unexpected Results. (For more on the election, listen to this week's podcast, posted on Monday, Nov.1)
Announcement: the November-December Newsletter is now available and will be sent out to subscribers shortly.

Venus Combust, Jupiter Changing Signs

2010-10-23T07:30:00.000-07:00

This week Venus will be Completely Combust the Sun, i.e, the planet will be so close to the Sun that it will become invisible. The way that the Earth and Venus are traveling in their orbits with respect to the Sun makes Venus appear to be moving across the disc of the Sun. As it does this, Venus will disappear from the Western Horizon as the 'Evening Star' and reappear in the East before Sunrise as the 'Morning Star' starting Nov. 2.
Venus is one of the planets of Guidance; when we can't see it, we don't know which Direction to Take (the Ancients while traveling at night depended on Venus to determine East and West). Simultaneously Venus is still Retrograde, i.e. 'backwards' in the Zodiac. Therefore, astrologically speaking, the significations of Venus are completely hammered for the coming week.
Jupiter is changing signs next week: while moving retrograde (i.e., in reverse) the planet is now nearing 0 degrees in Pisces, about to exit that sign, and will enter the final degree of Aquarius on Oct. 31. A planet located in the first or last degree of a sign is considered Weak. Jupiter is the planet of Truth and Wisdom. Thus, both planets of Guidance are compromised this week, making this a Poor Time for Making Decisions.... just in time for the Midterm Elections!

Planets Changing Signs: Mercury enters Libra, Mars enters Scorpio; Full Moon in Aries

2010-10-16T10:42:00.002-07:00

Mercury enters Libra on Saturday, Oct. 16. The planet of Reasons and Rationality does well in the sign of Balance and Equality. Mercury joins with Venus, the ruler of Libra now traveling retrograde in its own sign, for the next 3 weeks, until Nov.5.
Mars enters Scorpio, a sign it owns, on Tuesday, Oct. 19. The significations of Mars, as well as Scorpio, are strong for the next 6 weeks, until Nov. 29. Mars as the planet of Action and Combat does well with Scorpio's energy of Willful Determination. Scorpio is also the sign of Secrets and Investigation; Mars is Insight: watch for announcement of New Investigations, Exposure of Wrong Doing, etc. in the coming weeks.
The situation with Venus in Libra, planet of Agreements in the sign of Fairness, improves in the coming week when Mars separates from Venus. The Passion of Mars and Venus gets replaced by the combination of Mercury and Venus, which lends itself better to Compromise and Agreements.
The Full Moon will be Friday, Oct. 22, @ 5 degrees Aries. This is a powerful Full Moon, and marks the culmination of the energies of the lunar month Asvina. The Full Moon will be further strengthened due to its despositor Mars being strong in the other sign it rules, Scorpio. The Energy for Actions will be Heightened at the end of this week.

Venus Retrograde

2010-10-09T08:27:00.000-07:00

Venus is now in its retrograde phase for 6 weeks, from October 8 until November 18. Venus appears to be moving in reverse direction in the zodiac from night to night. When a planet is retrograde it is at its closest to the Earth, bright in the Heavens, and therefore powerful. The significations of Venus are emphasized, but are not behaving normally.
In Vedic Astrology Venus rules over Love, Devotion, Pleasure, Luxuries, Sociability, Art, Beauty, Finances, Agreements, and Counseling. Since the planet is strong but simultaneously "going backwards" all of these areas are subject to Review during the next 6 weeks. This is Not considered to be a good time for Getting Married, or for making Important Purchases, or for trying to make Agreements. It can be favorable for Reconsidering a Relationship, Reconnecting with Someone, Reworking a Contract or Partnership.
Venus is the planet of Value and Worth; during the Venus retrograde period the reverse energy pattern impells us to Re-evaluate the Value of things. One powerful example of this energy on the world stage is the current Review of Mortgages and Foreclosures now under way in the Banking Sector of the USA.
The entire time that Venus is in its retrograde period it will be in Libra, its own sign. Libra is an Idealistic sign particularly concerned with Fairness, Social Justice, Equality, Balance, etc. These themes are also emphasized now and during the coming weeks. In your personal Vedic Astrology Chart, the significations of the house that contains the sign Libra will require careful consideration during this time period.

New Moon: Shardiya Navaratri, Venus Retrograde

2010-10-02T08:50:00.000-07:00

Thursday, October 7, will be the New Moon @ 20 degrees Virgo This marks the beginning of the Hindu month of Ashvina, named for the Full Moon falling in the nakshatra (lunar sign) Ashvini on Oct. 22. The energy of the month is considered auspicious for New Beginnings, Laying Foundations, Initiations, etc.
The New Moon also marks the beginning of Shardiya Navaratri, the 9-day Hindu festival celebrating goddess Durga's victory over the demons. It is therefore important for doing Puja and Ceremony invoking Durga and requesting Victory for one's Efforts (in India: the New Moon and Navaratri begins after Thursday midnight/ Friday Oct.8).
Venus will be exactly conjunct Mars on Sunday, Oct. 3, @ 18 deg. Libra. Although Venus is strong in its own sign, Mars is a more powerful planet and overwhelms Venus. The significations of Venus continue to suffer until Mars leaves Libra on Oct. 19. The two gender planets combining result in Strong Passions and are predisposed towards Argument.
Venus will go Retrograde on Friday, October 8, @ 19 deg. Libra. (retrograde: the appearance of the planet going backwards in the Zodiac) This week the planet appears to hang motionless in the Heavens, considered a powerful indication for the significations of Venus. But Venus still suffers from the conjunction with Mars. Venus as the planet of Relationship going "in reverse" indicates Reconsideration of Relationships. Venus as the planet of Values going "backwards" means Reconsidering the Worth of things: thus this is Not a good time for making major purchases. Financial Markets are also likely to see "re-valuing". Venus will be retrograde until Novemeber 18.

Mercury enters Virgo, Saturn Combust Sun

2010-09-25T08:43:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday, September 29, Mercury will enter Virgo in the Sidereal Zodiac. Virgo is a sign ruled by Mercury, as well as being this planet's sign of Exaltation. Therefore the significations of Mercury are boosted for the next few weeks during this transit: Rational Thinking, Attention to Details, Use of Skills, etc. Mercury joins with Saturn and the Sun, both already transiting in Virgo. In your personal astrology chart, the house (area of life) containing the sign Virgo gets emphasized over the coming weeks.
Saturn is Combust the Sun this week: as the Sun catches up to Saturn in the Heavens, the planet will no longer be visible to the eye. The significations of Saturn and the Sun combine: Sun is the planet of Authority, Saturn is the planet of Limitation = Control by the Authorites, i.e., Governments. In Vedic Astrology Sun and Saturn are considered "enemies", so during combustion the significations of Saturn suffer. As Saturn is the planet of Work, it represents the Working Classes, who will suffer at the hands of the Authorities. An example: the current uproar in France over the government changing the state pension plan.
Sunday September 26, the Moon is in Aries, directly opposite to the Venus- Mars conjunction in Libra, contributing further activation of the combination of the two gender planets. The energy is intensified for Problems in Relationship, Arguements, Fights over Values, Sexual Issues, etc.

Full Moon in Pisces, Autumn Equinox

2010-09-18T09:48:00.000-07:00

The Full Moon will be Thursday, September 23 @ 6 degrees Pisces. This marks the culmination of the energies of the Lunar Month of Bhadrapada. The Full Moon will be within 2 degrees of the conjunction of Jupiter and Uranus. Thus the Moon's energy will augment a planetary combination already prone to Dramatic Events, in a lunar month known for Extremes. The entry of the Moon into Sidereal Pisces will be on Wednesday which can by itself "set off" events related to the Jupiter-Uranus conjunction.
Since Pisces is a Water Sign, the potential for Water Disasters, such as hurricane, flooding, events on the Ocean, etc. is high. The potential for dramatic events related to the significations of Jupiter, such as Judicial Action, Religion and Beliefs, Financial and Banks, etc., is also high. The Full Moon-Jupiter-Uranus combination will be opposite to Saturn, the planet of Structures and the Established Order, which further heightens the threat of disruption.
September 22 is the Autumnal Equinox, when the Sun in its apparent movement relative to the Earth's horizon crosses the Celestial Equator (the projection of the Earth's equator onto the Heavens), the midpoint of its travels. As the Sun crosses the Celestial Equator the energy is considered to be "in transition" and therefore not favorable for starting important new projects for three days before and after the Equinox.

Mercury goes Direct, Jupiter conjunct Uranus

2010-09-11T09:46:00.000-07:00

The Mercury Retrograde period ends on Sunday, Sept. 12. The planet of Rational Thinking, Communications, Business Transactions, Decisions, etc. returns to its normal forward motion amongst the stars. The delays and confusion in communications caused by Mercury Retrograde will abate over the coming week. The next Mercury Retrograde period will come in December.
Some examples of Mercury Retrograde from the past week's news: Pastor Terry Jones confusion over whether he would meet with the NY "ground zero mosque" Imam or not, Iran's delay of the release of the American hiker.
Jupiter and Uranus are now nearly on top of each other and will be exactly conjunct @ 4 degrees Pisces next Saturday, Sept. 18. Some of the recent examples of Jupiter conjunct Pisces in the past week's news:
...Jupiter, planet of Religion, conjunct Uranus, planet of Radicals: the radical pastor Terry Jones threat to burn Korans.
...Jupiter, planet of Law and Judges, conjunct Uranus, planet of Unexpected: a Federal Judge in California rules that the US military's policy on Homosexuals violates the US Constitution.
...Jupiter, energy of Increase, plus Uranus, energy of Sudden Events = Disaster: Gas pipeline in California town explodes and incinerates an entire neighborhood.
We can expect more of these types of events while Jupiter and Uranus continue to combine their energies during the coming weeks.

Mars enters Libra, New Moon in Leo

2010-09-03T21:25:00.000-07:00

Mars enters Libra on Sunday, September 5. Mars will now rejoin Venus for the next several weeks. Libra is the sign of Balance and Agreement; Mars as the planet of Aggression and Destruction does not fit well in this sign. Libra is also a sign of Idealism; Mars +Venus =Passion. Thus we get passionate defense of one's ideals, which further weakens the likelihood of coming to Agreement. Mars will be in Libra until Oct. 19.
In the chart of the USA, Libra is the sign in the 11th house, which is traditionally the part of a country's chart signifying the Legislature, i.e., Congress. With Mars and Venus both transiting this sector of the USA chart, we can expect more partisan battles in the coming weeks during the lead-up to the November elections.
The New Moon will be Wednesday, September 8, @ 21 degrees Leo. This begins the Hindu month of Bhadrapada. This lunar month has a reputation for disasterous events (such as the 9/11 event). The potential for disasters is augmented by the ongoing conjunction of Uranus and Jupiter, which will be exact on Sept. 18 (see previous posts).
Announcement: the September-October issue of the Astrology Newsletter is now available.

Venus enters Libra, Jupiter conjunct Uranus

2010-08-28T08:38:00.000-07:00

Venus goes into Libra Tuesday, August 31. Venus will now be leaving Virgo, its sign of debilitation, and entering its own sign Libra, as well as getting away from the influence of Mars. Therefore the significations of Venus will improve in the coming week. However, the relief is short-lived, since Mars will pursue Venus into Libra shortly (on Sept. 5) and thus the planet of Aggression and Violence will still continue to spoil the planet of Harmony and Agreement for several weeks yet. While changing signs on Tuesday, Venus is weakened and its significations are vulnerable. Venus will stay in Libra through to the end of the 2010. (For more on the Venus transit in Libra, see article in the Sept-Oct Newsletter).
Uranus and Jupiter are getting closer together: this coming week they will be separated by less than 2 degrees. The exact conjunction will be on Sept. 18. Both planets are retrograde, therefore the energy has the quality of "going back over" things. Uranus as the planet of "The Unexpected" plus Jupiter as the planet of Law and therefore Judges has manifested as surprising judicial decisions having to do with past events: a recent example is the federal judge who ruled against Obama's approval of money for embryonic stem cell research. Watch for more Judicial Review, and potential for Surprises in this area, in the coming weeks.

Full Moon Conjunct Neptune in Aquarius

2010-08-21T08:19:00.000-07:00

The Full Moon will be Tuesday, August 24, @ 7 degress Aquarius. The energies of the lunar month of Shravana come to a head, but this year the actual Full Moon will be in the lunar sign of Shatabishak.
The Full Moon will be conjunct Neptune within a few degrees. Moon and Neptune together, especially in Aquarius, a sign that cares about society, is favorable for Sympathy for the Masses, and will result in more Concern and hopefully more Aid to Pakistan and elsewhere in the world where it is needed.
But Moon and the Planet of Dreams can also create Lack of Realism and a lot of Confusion, which is especially a problem now since Mercury, planet of Reason, is retrograde (see previous post), and simultaneously Opposite in the Heavens to Neptune.
The Full Moon- Neptune combination is exactly where the Natal Moon of the USA Birth Chart lies, which will likely bring us a major News Story this coming Tuesday and Wednesday. Since Mercury, planet of the Media, is both retrograde and opposite Neptune, there is likelihood of Error or even Deliberate Deception, and we have to be careful of getting the information correct.
Venus and Mars are still in graha yuda (planetary war: within 1 degree of each other) until Tuesday, while Jupiter, also retrograde, is only 2 degrees away from Uranus, which continues to create unstable conditions for Financial Markets, as well as making it difficult for Agreement and Compromise. Therefore the Tension and Antipathy between various partisan groups continues through the week. The situation will ease somewhat when Venus breaks away by entering Libra on August 31.

Venus Conjunct Mars, Mercury Goes Retrograde

2010-08-14T08:05:00.002-07:00

Venus is conjunct Mars, within 1 degree, August 17-24. The exact conjunction is Friday, August 20, @ 19 degrees Virgo. The planet of War and Destruction, overwhelming the planet of Balance and Harmony, makes for problems in general. Venus is simultaneously debilitated, i.e., weakened, in the sign Virgo. Mars and Venus, being the two gender planets, when together in the Heavens create Excitement and Passion, but are not conducive to Balance and Harmony.
Meanwhile, Jupiter, the other main Benefic, while traveling retrograde, is slowly getting closer to conjunction with Uranus, planet of Disruption, in the early degrees of Pisces. Venus and Jupiter are the Brahminical Planets, signifying Truth and Wisdom. Venus and Jupiter are also both Money Planets, signifying Finance and Prosperity. Both planets are under stress. The coming two weeks are not favorable for either Wisdom or Prosperity.
Mercury will go Retrograde for 3 weeks starting Friday, August 20, @ 25 degrees Leo. The planet of Communications, The Media, Rationality, and Business Transactions will be traveling "backwards" in the zodiac until Sept. 12 in the sign of Governments and Rulers. The usual precautions for retrograde Mercury periods should be observed starting at the end of the week: Check to make sure that the Message got Through, that what was Intended is what got Understood, Careful re any Business Transactions, Check your Math, Expect Delays in Communications, Malfunctions with Equipment, People are less Rational, etc. The potential for screw-ups in the Government, Misinterpretation and Gaffes in the Media, is high during the coming weeks.
Mercury Retrograde periods are Favorable for Editing, Finishing Past Business, Paying Old Bills, Catching up on Past Correspondance, etc.

Venus Conjunct Mars, Mercury Goes Retrograde

2010-08-14T08:05:00.001-07:00

New Moon, Venus afflicted by Malefics

2010-08-07T09:26:00.000-07:00

The New Moon will be on Monday, August 9, @ 23 degrees Cancer. This begins the Hindu month of Shravana, but this year the culmination of the month's energy will not fall in the lunar sign for which the month is named: the Full Moon will be in Shatabishak, a nakshatra known for Secrecy.
Venus will be exactly conjunct Saturn on Sunday, Aug.8 @ 7 deg. Virgo. Venus is debilitated in Virgo (its significations are weakened). For the coming week, Venus will be "sandwiched" between Saturn and Mars, two malefic planets, while simultaneously opposite Jupiter and Uranus (On Monday, Aug.9, Venus will be exactly opposite Jupiter). Thus, the significations of Venus are harmed. Harmony and Agreement are difficult to achieve. Females, Love, and Relationships suffer.
Venus is the planet of Values, which are under attack. The past week has brought the issue of Same-sex marriage again into the national spotlight.
Venus and Jupiter are both planets of Prosperity, and with the influence of malefic Mars and Saturn, as well as Uranus planet of Sudden Events, signify continued Bad News and Fluctuations in the Financial Sector.
Venus= Celebrities, some of whom are also likely to be going through a difficult week.
On Thursday- Friday, Aug. 12-13, the Moon will be in Virgo, adding more activation to the energy pattern of Venus-Mars-Saturn opposite Jupiter-Uranus, and therefore more likelihood of major events.

Venus enters Virgo, Mars opposite Uranus

2010-07-31T08:42:00.000-07:00

Venus will enter Virgo on Sunday, August 1. Venus in Virgo is considered debilitated, i.e., weakened and liable to display the downside of its character. Venus will also be combining with two natural malefics, Mars and Saturn, as well as being opposite to and influenced by Uranus and Jupiter. The significations of Venus are vulnerable and likely to suffer over the coming weeks. Venus is also moving into position opposite to Uranus, planet of Sudden Changes (exact opposition Friday, August 6). Venus as the planet of Value and Finances in its weakened state indicates Upcoming Trouble in the Financial Sector, more Bad News re World Economies, Swings in the Markets, etc. Venus will be in Virgo throughout the month of August.
Mars is now exactly conjunct with Saturn, while simultaneously opposite to Uranus. Mars as the planet of War represents Destruction, and when combined with Saturn the planet of Form and Structure while both are simultaneously opposed by and influenced by Uranus the planet of Sudden Change, creates a energy pattern prone to cause disasters. Over the past week there have been a number of examples, ranging from major fires in Russia to devastating floods in China and Pakistan. This energy pattern remains strong for the coming week.
Mars will be exactly opposite to Jupiter on Tuesday, August 3. The planet of Actions and Aggression is opposed by the planet of Beliefs and Truth. Various groups of people throughout the world are fighting for their beliefs. In the chart of the USA, Mars and Saturn combine in the 10th house of The Ruler, i.e., the Democrats in power, who find themselves Opposed by the Beliefs of Others, lately taking form as the dust-up over Arizona's new anti-imigration law. This energy pattern gets a further boost from Venus coming into Virgo, since Venus +Mars =Passion. Venus as the planet of Harmony and Agreement is of no help this month (see Venus in Virgo, above). The belligerence and arguements will get even more extreme in the coming week.

Mercury Opposite Neptune, Mars and Saturn Opposite Uranus

2010-07-24T08:54:00.000-07:00

Mercury, transiting in Leo, is Opposite to Neptune in Aquarius; exact on Monday, July 26. The planet of Rational Thinking is opposed by the Planet of Dreams and Illusions. There is a Strong Potential for Confusion and Delusion that started during the past week and continues through the first part of the week: making this a Poor Time for Making Decisions. Mercury also represents The Media, which is again likely to make Mistakes or engage in Deception this week.
Mars will be exactly conjunct Saturn @ 6 deg. Virgo, while simultaneously exactly opposite to Uranus @ 6 deg. Pisces on Friday and Saturday, July 30-31. Mars and Saturn together = planet of Combat and Destruction combined with planet of Structure and Control, while both are opposed by Uranus, planet of Sudden Events, Rebellion, Anarchy, etc. Mars and Saturn combined also signifies Concentrated Action and Enforcement.
The Moon enters Pisces on Friday, July 30, adding yet more energy to the Uranus side of the opposition, and making for what promises to be a very volatile end of the month.
There is a High Probability for Sudden and Violent Events.
(For more Discussion, listen to this week's podcast, posted Monday afternoon, July 26)

Planets Changing Signs: Mars enters Virgo, Mercury enters Leo

2010-07-17T08:14:00.000-07:00

Mars enters Virgo on Monday, July 19. As soon as Mars enters Virgo it will contribute its energies and significations to the Saturn-Uranus opposition. Mars + Saturn puts the planet of Attack together with the planet of Control, while both are opposite to the planet of Sudden Change and Rebellion. The result is likely to be Explosive. Events can be expected in both the Natural Arena (Earthquakes, Hurricanes, etc.) as well as the Human Arena (Violence against Governments, Military Battles, etc.) Mars opposite Uranus is particularly known for Accidents, Disaster, Revolution, etc. This energy pattern continues while Mars is in Virgo for the next 7 weeks, until September 5.
While Mars is changing signs over the next few days its energy is Weakened: The Planet of Action is moving from one House to the next, resulting in Uncertainty re Results of Actions. Example: the recent Action of installing a new cap on the leaking oil well in the Gulf of Mexico; will it work? The upcoming planetary combination of Mars opposite Uranus indicates a sudden and likely unfavorable outcome.
Mercury enters Leo on Friday, July 23. The planet of Decisions, changing signs, is weakened during the later part of this week. Combined with the trouble that Mars can give, we see that this week has a strong potential for problems. Mercury will be in Leo for an extra long time, until the end of September, since it will be going retrograde for three weeks starting August 20. Mercury in Leo is favorable for "Big Thinking", High Ideals, Government Decisions.

Total Solar Eclipse on Sunday

2010-07-10T08:13:00.000-07:00

The New Moon on Sunday, July 11, will be a Total Solar Eclipse, @ 25 deg. Gemini in the Sidereal Zodiac. This New Moon begins the Lunar Month of Ashada in the Hindu Calendar. Due to the eclipse, the energy of the lunar month is harmed. The eclipse will only be visible in the southern part of South America and over the southern Pacific Ocean. Although no other planetary positions are directly involved, total solar eclipses have a reputation of foretelling Dramatic Events, even Disasters. The forthcoming lineup of planets beginning in another week and lasting through August is also indicative of powerful events coming up (see article in the current issue of the Astrology Newsletter).
In your personal Vedic Astrology Chart, if you have natal planets or a sensitive point at or close to 25 degrees Gemini, or opposite at 25 degrees Sagittarius, you have a high potential for major changes/events in the coming months.
Venus has been opposite Neptune over the past week, causing Confusion and Scandal over Venus significations, notably with Financials and Celebrities. Venus, the planet of Harmony, is also suffering due to being in Leo with Mars, making coming to Agreements difficult. Venus significations will improve in another week when Mars leaves Leo and Venus gets away from the direct opposition with Neptune.
Friday, July 16, the Moon will enter Virgo, adding additional activation for the Saturn-Uranus opposition, which will then be within 1 degree of exact, making likely more events that challenge and disrupt the Established Order.

Venus enters Leo, Mercury enters Cancer, Uranus Retrograde

2010-07-03T08:37:00.000-07:00

Venus changes signs and enters Leo on Sunday, July 4 (East Coast: 1 am Monday). Planets changing signs are generally weakened during the transition. While changing signs Venus is also Gandant, moving through the "dead zone" between a water sign and a fire sign. Therefore Venus suffers from July 3-6. Venus will remain in Leo through the remainder of July.
Upon entering Leo,Venus combines energy with Mars for the next two weeks, until Mars leaves Leo on July 19. The combination of Mars with Venus, especially in a Fire sign, leads to a lot of Excitement and Passion, but does not help in coming to Agreements. Mars is Sports, and Venus is Entertainment, so the last week of the World Cup should be pretty intense.
This coming week, while Venus is in the early degrees of Leo, it will be opposite to Neptune, which is on the other side of the zodiac, at 4 degrees Aquarius. The exact opposition is Thursday, July 8. The significations of Venus are challenged by Neptune the planet of Dreams. Neptune's Unrealistic Idealism, potential for Confusion, and even Deception, will affect Human Relations, Romance, Celebrities, Agreements, Treaties, and Finance, resulting in Disillusionment and Disappointment during the coming week.
Mercury changes signs and enters Cancer on Tuesday, July 6. Mercury the planet of the rational mind doesn't do so well in an emotion-driven water sign. Thus the significations of Mercury are at a disadvantage while Mercury transits through Cancer, until July 23.
Uranus turns Retrograde, Monday July 5. The planet of Sudden Changes hangs motionless in the Heavens during this week. Simultaneously, Saturn the planet of the Status Quo is slowly moving into direct opposition to Uranus, creating a lot of Tension. Since stationary planets are especially strong for effects, the liklihood of Upsets, Rebellion, Unexpected Events, Explosions, etc. will be high through the coming weeks. This pattern intensifies further starting when Mars joins with Saturn, in opposition to Uranus, on July 19.

Lunar Eclipse Foretells Coming Change for USA

2010-06-26T08:22:00.000-07:00

The June 26 Lunar Eclipse was at 10-11 degrees Sagittarius, close to both Pluto and the Ascendant degree of the USA astrology chart. Eclipses signify changes. The eclipse degree becomes a point in the Zodiac that is sensitive to subsequent interaction from other planets. Events associated with the eclipse usually happen in the part of the world where the eclipse was visible: in this case the Western USA and the Pacific Ocean. Mars, the planet of Violence, will form a Square (90 deg.) aspect to the Eclipse Point, Pluto, and the USA Ascendant Degree, during the first week of August. Mars will also be opposite to Uranus, the planet of Sudden Events, and thus form another simultaneous planetary pattern signifying Violence and Disaster.
There are no Planetary Changes in the Sidereal Zodiac during the coming week.
However, there is a significant pattern that has been forming over the past few months, and which is becoming more powerful during coming weeks: Saturn Opposite Uranus and Jupiter. Both Jupiter and Uranus are barely moving as they prepare to go Retrograde in the next few weeks: Uranus will turn retrograde July 5, Jupiter will turn retrograde on July 24. Retrograde planets are powerful, and more so when they are "stationary" in the Heavens, i.e., appearing to hang motionless. Saturn, creeping along in Virgo, is within 2 degrees of opposition to Uranus now, and will be exactly opposite Uranus on July 26: Uranus the planet of Rebellion vs. Saturn the planet of the Established Order. The effects of Uranus get amplified by its association with Jupiter, the planet of Increase. The pattern gets an additional boost for Events starting July 19, when Mars will enter Virgo, teaming up with Saturn.
(For more on this planetary pattern, request the July-August Newsletter, sent free via email attachment).

Summer Solstice, Mercury enters Gemini, Lunar Eclipse in Gemini

2010-06-19T06:48:00.000-07:00

Monday June 21 is the Summer Solstice: the longest day of the year as the Sun comes to the end of its travel north of the celestial equator. Starting June 21, the Sun will begin to move towards the South for the next six months. Since this is a "turning point" the energy is considered weak; therefore the three days before and after the solstice are not auspicious for beginning important new projects.
Mercury enters Gemini on Tuesday, June 22. Mercury will be in its own sign for two weeks, thus the significations of Mercury and of Gemini will benefit: good for use of the Intellect, working with Ideas, Communications and Discussions.
The Full Moon will be on Saturday June 26 at 11 degrees Sagittarius. This marks the culmination of the energies of the lunar month of Jyestha. This Full Moon will also be a Partial Eclipse, visible in the USA in early AM hours in the Western States.
The lunar eclipse will be close to Pluto and the Ascendant Degree of the USA chart. Since eclipses signify Changes, there could be more Unexpected Events upcoming for the USA, as is also indicated by Saturn getting closer to exact opposition with Uranus in the Heavens (exact in late July). (More discussion of Eclipse + Pluto will be on next week's podcast)

New Moon in Taurus, Jupiter & Uranus Trine Venus

2010-06-12T08:07:00.000-07:00

The New Moon is Saturday, June 12, @ 27 degrees Taurus. This begins the lunar month of Jyeshtha. The energy of the month is that of the nakshatra (lunar sign) Jyeshta, known for use of Authority: Taking Control, Harsh Actions, Discipline, Enforcement of Judgements. Watch for more Actions from Courts, Police, and Governments in the coming weeks.
There are no planets changing signs this week.
Venus will move into position in Cancer where it will be exactly trined (120 degrees) by Jupiter Monday-Tuesday. In Vedic Astrology the trine aspect of Jupiter is counted as having the full power of Jupiter. The Moon in Cancer on these days adds extra push for events. Since Jupiter is currently in tight conjunction with Uranus, the impact of Uranus the planet of Sudden Events is carried to Venus. Look for continued Volatility in Markets early in the week. Other significations of Venus (Arts, Entertainment, Celebrities, etc.) will also be affected, and show up as Unexpected events.
The ongoing Opposition of Saturn to Jupiter and Uranus gets an extra boost next Friday June 18- Saturday June 19 when the Moon will be in Virgo, activating the Saturn side of the planetary pattern, and increasing potential for Enforcement at the end of the week.

Jupiter Conjunct Uranus, Venus and Mercury Change Signs

2010-06-05T07:18:00.000-07:00

Jupiter and Uranus will be tightly conjunct this week @ 6 deg. Pisces; the exact conjunction is Tuesday, June 8. The planet of Unexpected Events together with the planet of Prosperity will continue to create Instability in Markets and Currencies. Uranus as the planet of Revolution and Rebellion together with Jupiter the planet of Faith continues to give Encouragement to Radicals, and indicates a general Recklessness for anyone with an axe to grind.
From Saturday until Monday June 5-7, the Moon is in Pisces, adding more energy for events related to the Jupiter-Uranus conjunction.
Sunday, June 6, Mercury enters Taurus for 16 days, until June 22. The planet of Rationality in the sign of Materiality is good for Practical Decisions over the next couple of weeks. Mercury as the planet of Business Transactions in an Earth sign promises a more clear-headed approach to dealing with current fiscal problems.
Venus enters Cancer on Tuesday, June 8, staying in that sign until July 4. Venus has now escaped the influence of Saturn and Ketu (see previous posts). Venus in a Water sign where Feelings Dominate is Sentimental and Supportive, but not necessarily rational. Venus the planet of Finance and Currencies in a sign prone to ups and downs indicates that the Financial Sector remains unstable. Even Jupiter's trinal (120 degree) aspect from Pisces, although normally beneficial, is suspect due to the influence of Uranus.

Mars Opposite Neptune

2010-05-29T08:03:00.000-07:00

Mars transiting in Leo is Opposite to Neptune transiting in Aquarius. The planet of Actions and Aggression is being influenced by the planet of Dreams and Illusions. The result is Misinterpretation of Other's Actions, and potential for Deception. Neptune is also Stationary in the Heavens, i.e., appearing to be motionless, as it prepares to enter a retrograde phase. Stationary planets are considered extremely powerful for effects. Since Mars is in Leo, sign of Kings and Governments, we can expect a misunderstood event that threatens hostilities. In general, everyone needs to be careful that their actions are not misinterpreted by others. This planetary pattern is strong for the next couple of weeks.
The opposition of Mars vs. Neptune will be exact on Thursday June 3, with Mars @ 4 deg. Leo and Neptune @ 4 deg. Aquarius. The Moon enters Aquarius on June 3 as well, adding more potential for some deviousness or confusion or disappointment during next Thursday and Friday.
In the Chart of the USA, Mars is transiting opposite to the natal Moon, indicating potential Suffering for the Public. Neptune is also a planet indicating suffering, and is barely 3 degrees away from the USA natal Moon. The planet of Illusion transiting in the 3rd house of Communications in the USA chart indicates Deception by the Media.
Saturn is also now Stationary in the Heavens, @ 3 deg. Virgo as it prepares to return to Direct Motion on May 30, and still simultaneously opposite Jupiter and Uranus transiting in Pisces (see previous posts). The continued effects of Uranus planet of Sudden Change and Disruption combining with Jupiter the planet of Hope and Beliefs vs. Saturn the planet of Structure continues to encourage Radical Groups and Revolutionaries to oppose the Established Order. The potential for "Earth Events" of a destructive nature remains high.

Saturn Opposite Jupiter, Mars Enters Leo, Scorpio Full Moon

2010-05-22T07:18:00.000-07:00

Today, Saturday May 22, Saturn and Jupiter are exactly opposite to each other in the Heavens. Saturn is at the end of its retrograde period, nearly stationary @ 3 degrees in Virgo, therefore very powerful. The Moon enters Virgo today, adding additional energy to the Saturn side of the opposition.
During the past week the impact of Saturn, the planet of Restriction and Fear, on Jupiter planet of Prosperity has produced fairly dramatic events in the Markets. Uranus, being the planet of Sudden Changes, only 2 degrees away from Jupiter, only adds more fuel to the fire. This pattern continues in the Heavens for next several months.
Saturn has also been influencing Venus, the planet of Finance and Values (see previous post). Venus as it moves along in Gemini will gradually escape from the influence of Saturn during the coming week, but Venus is simultaneously heading towards a conjunction with Ketu, exact on Saturday, May 29, @ 18 deg. Gemini. The planet of Value together with one of the eclipse points is not favorable for Venus' significations: Markets and Currencies continue to be unstable during the coming week.
Mars enters Leo on Wednesday, May 26. Finally, after spending nearly 8 months in Cancer, its sign of debilitation , Mars is leaving this part of the Zodiac and moving on to a more favorable position. The significations of Mars will improve over the coming weeks. While moving from Cancer to Leo, Mars transits through one of the Gandant areas of the zodiac: the intersection of a Water Sign and a Fire Sign, considered to be strongly unfavorable and, in the case of a planet whose portfolio includes War and Violence, signifying Destructive Events.
The Full Moon will be Thursday, May 27, @ 12 deg. Scorpio. Since this is one of Mars' signs, and Mars itself is in the position to do something destructive, the potential for misfortune during this full moon is high, started on Wednesday when the Moon first enters Scorpio.

Venus in Gemini, Saturn aspecting Venus and Jupiter

2010-05-15T08:03:00.000-07:00

Venus entered Gemini on Friday, May 14. This puts the planet of Harmony and Agreements in the sign of Diplomacy and Negotiations for the next 3 weeks (until June 9). This is a beneficial arrangement for Achieving Compromise. The various battles and rebellions in the world may see some resolution shortly. In the Chart of the USA, the Venus transit in Gemini affects the 7th house of Relationship with Partner Countries: watch for more improvement in this area over the next few weeks.
However, by entering Gemini, Venus has come under the influence of Saturn: from its position in Virgo, Saturn is throwing its "10th house aspect" (Western Astrology: square aspect) on Venus. Saturn, the Reality-check planet, will restrict Venus's significations while Venus transits through Gemini.
Saturn is simultaneously Opposite to Jupiter in the Heavens (see previous posts). Thus the planet of Restriction is afflicting both Venus, the planet of Finance, and Jupiter the planet of Prosperity. Saturn represents the energy of Fear and Doubt influencing the factors representing Value and Wealth: investors are worried; currencies and markets decline. Saturn energy is also manifesting in the US Congress as the forming of Financial Regulations restricting the Banks and Wall Street, which will now be more keenly felt by the Financial Sector, and drive markets down further.
Meanwhile, in President Obama's chart, Mars is now Opposite to Mr. Obama's Ascendent Degree. The planet of Combat influencing his Conscious Awareness puts some fire into his brain: the president has been speaking with more Passion and Anger as he pushes for Financial Reform and denounces the "cozy relationship" between Oil Execs and Federal Regulators.

Mercury Goes Direct, New Moon in Aries

2010-05-08T07:43:00.000-07:00

Tuesday, May 11, Mercury returns to Direct Motion in the Heavens. The planet of Reason and Communications will resume its normal forward progress in the zodiac, and Mercury's significations will likewise return to normal. But it takes several days for the planet to get back to normal speed, so during the coming week it is best to still be on guard regarding communications, business transactions, equipment malfunction, etc.
The Moon will be in Aries on Tuesday, while Mercury is "stationary" (apparently frozen in place as it prepares to go Direct). There is a strong potential for Adverse Events connected to Communications, Media, Equipment, and Business Transactions.
Thursday, May 13, will be a New Moon @ 29 deg. Aries. This is the second New Moon in Aries; the New Moon in April was at the beginning of Aries. Having an 'extra' lunation in the same sign is considered a weakness (called Adhicka in Vedic Astrology). Therefore, the next two weeks are not favorable for beginning important new projects.
Jupiter is slowly advancing towards Uranus, while simultaneously getting closer to an exact opposition with Saturn. The potential for Unexpected Events that Threaten the Established Order continues to intensify over the coming weeks. Jupiter is the planet of Prosperity. It is also the planet of Beliefs. The attempted car-bomb in New York City and the Stock Market plunge this past week are good examples of combining Mercury Retrograde energy with the Uranus+Jupiter opposite Saturn pattern: Equipment Malfunction, combined with Beliefs, leading to Surprise Events that Threaten Stability.

Jupiter Enters Pisces

2010-05-01T08:04:00.000-07:00

Jupiter changes signs and enters Pisces today, Saturday, May 1 (Sunday May 2 in Europe and Asia). Jupiter will now be in its own sign for most of the coming year, which boosts both the significations of Jupiter and of Pisces.
The planet of Wisdom, Prosperity, Opportunity, and Optimism combines with the sign of Hope, Faith, Sympathy, and Support. There will be more emphasis on Religion and Beliefs in the world in the coming 12 months.
But note that Jupiter is not operating in isolation. It is under powerful influence from two planets: Jupiter in Pisces is combining with Uranus, already posited in Pisces, and both are opposite to Saturn, traveling in retrograde motion in Virgo. Saturn the planet of Limitation will Restrict the energy of Jupiter. Uranus the planet of Rebellion will boost Jupiter's natural inclination towards excess. The opposition of Uranus to Saturn has already delivered many examples of Rebellion and Disruption in the world over the past weeks. Now Jupiter, the planet of Increase, will add its energy to the mix.
By being opposite to Saturn, Jupiter will have some beneficial effects on the Established Order, and will help move the world situation towards gradual improvement over the coming year. But Jupiter + Uranus promises to simultaneously raise the hopes and increase the energy of rebellious groups, from Tea Party to Taliban, in their fight against the Establishment.
In the Chart of the USA, the Jupiter transit affects the 4th house: the Opposition Party, Lands of the Country, Patriotism, Safety and Security. Thus the Republicans are given more Hope for the November Elections, Real Estate prices Improve, the People's Confidence is renewed. But, with the "Sudden Changes" energy of Uranus combining, there will be Unexpected Events, Rebellious Attitude for Opposition Groups, and potential Swings in Prosperity Indicators. Also: Jupiter is Law, so Jupiter+ Uranus= Surprises in the Legal Area. Already we have the new Arizona Illegal Immigrants Law and the just-revealed Criminal Investigation of Goldman-Sachs.
Reminders: Mercury is still Retrograde in Aries (Mars' sign) until May 11. Mars is still in Cancer until May 26. The energy pattern of Miscommunication resulting in Impatience and Anger continues for another 10 days.

Full Moon in Libra, Uranus Opposite Saturn

2010-04-24T07:22:00.001-07:00

Wednesday, April 28, is the Full Moon @ 14 degrees Libra. This marks the culmination of the energy of the lunar month of Vaishaka, although this year the actual Full Moon falls in the previous lunar sign Swati. Since Libra is one of Venus's signs, and Venus is currently in its other sign Taurus, the Full Moon should be a good one for Venus significations, such as Romance, Social Functions,Finance, etc.
Uranus and Saturn are now directly opposite each other in the Heavens. Uranus is @ 4 degrees of Pisces while Saturn, traveling in retrograde motion, is @ 4 degrees in Virgo. The tension of this planetary combination has been finding expression through various disruptive events around the world in the past several weeks, ranging from the crisis in the Catholic Church to the disruption of Air Travel by the Iceland Volcano Eruption. This energy pattern continues through much of this year and gets further energized when other planets interact with it. Sunday through Monday, April 25-26, the nearly full Moon will transit through Virgo, adding energy to the Saturn side of the equation and raising the potential for events during those days. Simultaneously, the general energy for Irritation, Anger, and even Violence is further enhanced by the continuing transit of Mars in Cancer, which by itself creates an energy pattern for adverse events, and will be getting a boost from the Full Moon this week. Best advice is to stick to routines, and be alert for any unusual activity that threatens to get out of control. For more discussion of the details, check out this week's podcast.

Mercury Retrograde, Venus enters Taurus

2010-04-17T08:04:00.000-07:00

Mercury begins its retrograde period Sunday, April 18, @ 18 deg. Aries. The significations of Mercury will be at a disadvantage for the next three weeks, until May 11. Take the usual precautions for Mercury Retrograde periods: Expect Delays and Mistakes in Communications, check to make sure that the message got through, be extra careful of Financial Transactions (count your change!), tendency for Equipment Malfunctions, etc. Mercury Retrograde periods are Favorable for Dealing with Old Business, catching up on Past Correspondance, Getting Back in Touch, etc. Since Mars is Mercury's dispositor (the ruler of the sign Aries) and is currently debilitated (at a disadvantage) in Cancer, there is an increased potential for Anger (Mars) due to Misunderstandings (Mercury retrograde).
Venus enters Taurus on Tuesday, April 20. Taurus is a sign ruled by Venus, so the significations of Venus and Taurus are improved over the next three weeks, until May 14. The planet of Finances in the sign of Materiality is generally favorable for markets, etc., but be wary of the transaction process itself due to Retrograde Mercury.
Uranus opposite Saturn continues, now less than 1 degree from exact opposition. This planetary combination has manifested lately as many Challenges and Disruptions (Uranus) to the Established Order (Saturn), from Governments to Air Travel, and will continue to increase in intensity over the coming weeks. Moon will be with Mars in Cancer Wednesday and Thursday, April 21-22, adding more fuel to the fire for violent events.

New Moon in Aries, Uranus Opposite Saturn

2010-04-09T21:51:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, April 14, will be the New Moon @ 00 deg- 26 minutes in Aries, beginning the Hindu month of Vaishakha. The very first degree of the Zodiac is a special point in the Heavens; the time of any Celestial Event occuring at this point is particularly auspicious for propitiations, prayers, puja, etc. On the West Coast of the USA the New Moon will be @ 5:30 am PDT; East Coast time is 8:30 am EDT. This New Moon occurs in the lunar sign of Ashwini, connected with Beginnings, Journeys, Getting Help, and Healing. The time of this event is an opportunity for prayers for the success of endeavors to be initiated during the coming year, and asking for successful Healing and Health is especially appropriate.
The Uranus-Saturn opposition (see previous entry) will be within 1 degree of exact by the end of this week. Disruption and Challenges to the Established Order will continue to intensify. The past week has seen Government Buildings stormed by protestors in Thailand and Kyrgyzstan. The Vatican and the Pope are still under attack. In the USA, the announced retirement of a Supreme Court Justice threatens to turn into a major battle over the next appointee. The Moon will enter Pisces April 11, Sunday evening (West Coast Time, Monday AM in Europe) and be conjunct with Uranus, adding more energy for disruptive and potentially destructive events.

Venus Conjunct Mercury, Uranus Opposite Saturn

2010-04-03T10:38:00.000-07:00

This week Venus and Mercury are within a degree of each other in Aries. The planet of Communications and the planet of Pleasures are together in the creative sign Aries results in a lot of potential for Media, Film, Music, etc. Mercury is also the planet of Negotiations, and Venus is the planet of Agreements, so this looks good for Contracts, Talks, Treaties, at least until mid-April. Mercury moves faster than Venus in the Heavens, and normally would catch up to Venus. But Mercury will be slowing down over the next two weeks as it prepares to go retrograde on April 18, when the energy pattern will change.
In the Astrology Chart of the USA the Mercury-Venus combination is occuring in the fifth house, connected to Entertainment, Sports, and Education. Interestingly, the new Ipad becomes available this week, a media device that combines both Entertainment and Education.
Uranus and Saturn are opposite each other in the Heavens this year and next. Uranus is located currently at 3 degrees Pisces, Saturn at 6 degrees Virgo. Saturn is in its retrograde phase and therefore the opposition is becoming more exact over the coming weeks. This combination pits the planet of The Established Order vs. the planet of Sudden Events and Disruption. The results are showing up all over the globe, from Challenges to the Vatican to Extremist Plots against the Government of the USA. We can expect more of this sort of thing as we continue through April. (for more discussion listen to this week's podcast).

Full Moon in Virgo, Mercury enters Aries

2010-03-27T11:32:00.000-07:00

This Month's Full Moon will be Monday, March 29, 7:30 pm PDT, @ 15 degrees Virgo. This marks the culmination of the energies of the lunar month of Chaitra, although this year the Full Moon occurs in Hasta nakshatra. The Full Moon is influenced by the energy of Saturn, also in Virgo, which helps to restrain the energy somewhat. But while the Moon is in Virgo, Sunday- Tuesday, it will also be activating the Saturn-Uranus opposition, energizing the potential for Rebellious Acts (Uranus) against The Established Order (Saturn).
Mercury enters Aries on Monday, March 29, @ 4 pm PDT. Mercury's significations will be temporarily weakened on Monday while it is changing signs. Therefore Monday is not a good day for signing things, business transactions, making decisions, etc. Mercury is the ruler of Virgo, and thus contains the energy of Monday's Full Moon, thereby increasing the instability of the energy pattern.
Mercury will be in Aries for more than 2 months. Fast-moving Mercury usually speeds through a sign in less than three weeks, but this time something unusual happens because Mercury will be going through a retrograde phase while in Aries, from April 18- May 11, keeping the planet in Aries until June 6. Mercury's significations combine with Aries significiations: the Planet of Reason and Decisions in the Fast-Acting sign Aries leads to coming to conclusions rapidly which can be handy for dealing with fast-moving developments. On the other hand, hasty decision-making can lead to mistakes. Since Mars, the ruler of Aries, is still in Cancer, which it's sign of debilitation, the dispositor of Mercury is giving some weakness to Mercury's situation.

Spring Equinox, Venus enters Aries

2010-03-20T07:28:00.000-07:00

Saturday, March 20 is the first day of Spring in the Northern Hemisphere, known as the Vernal Equinox. The Sun is at the midpoint in its apparent movement from lowest to highest distance above the horizon. The Sun is crossing over the Celestial Equator: the line of Earth's equator projected onto the Heavens. This is called a Sankranti in Vedic Astrology. As in the case of any cross-over point, this day and the days on either side of the date are considered weak for beginning important projects.
Venus enters Aries on Friday, March 26, @ 2:00 pm (Pacific Daylight Time). The entry of a planet into the First Degree of the Sideral Zodiac is considered an Auspicious Time for making Prayers, Puja,Ceremony, by focusing on the significations of the planet and asking for the favor of that planet and its associated deities. For example: since Venus represents Finance and thus Prosperity, the appropriate deity is Lakshmei. For Financial Prosperity one could light incense and say the mantra for Lakshmei "Om Shreem Kleem Maha, Lakshmeiyei Namaha" for 108 repetitions (minimum)while Venus is entering Aries @ 2pm PDT. on Friday (East Coast USA: 5pm). Prayers can likewise be made for other Venus significations such as the Arts and artistic endeavors, Love and Romance, Social Interaction, etc.
Uranus and Saturn are Opposite to each other in the Heavens: in another week these two planets will be within 3 degrees of being exactly opposite in the zodiac (the exact opposition will be in late April). Since Uranus is the planet of Change and Disruption, and Saturn represents Structure and the Established Order, there will be more challenges and problems for the Establishment. In the past week this energy has manifested as a Crisis within the Catholic Church, Rebellion against various Governments in the world, and attacks on the Established Corporate Structure (such as Health Insurance complanies in the USA).

Mercury enters Pisces, New Moon in Pisces, Mercury conjunct Uranus

2010-03-13T07:50:00.000-08:00

On Sunday, March 14, Mercury enters Pisces in the Sidereal zodiac. Mercury is considered debilitated in this sign: the Planet of Rational Thought doesn't do so well in an emotional Water Sign. Mercury will join up with Venus, already transiting in Pisces, for the next 12 days, until Venus leaves Pisces on March 26. Venus is exalted in Pisces. Venus elevates the Pisces quality of Hope and Faith. Therefore during Mercury's transit through Pisces there's a tendency to rely more on Hope rather than rational thought.
Mercury will be conjunct Uranus as soon as it enters Pisces. The significations of Mercury and Uranus combine: the planet of Ideas, Communication, and The Media combines with the planet of Unexpected Events= potential for some Surprising News this week. Uranus + Mercury, especially in Mystical Pisces, can induce new, exciting Ideas and Realizations as well.
The New Moon will be on Monday, @ 1 degree Pisces. This begins the month of Chaitra in the Lunar Calendar. This New Moon marks the beginning of the Lunar Year in traditional Vedic Astrology. Therefore on Monday it is beneficial to do Puja, Prayer, Ceremony, etc. to ask for good fortune for the coming year.
The planetary pattern at the time of the Lunar New Year can be interpreted for events for the coming year. Monday's lunation occurs within 1 degree of the conjunction of Mercury and Uranus, indicating a year of New Ideas, Invention, and Surprising Events. (For more on Vedic New Year, see article in current issue of the Newsletter).