VESTA’S CHALLENGE – THE TRIALS OF THE PRIESTESS & THE GRAND FIRE TRINE (w. Jupiter, Venus, Ixion, Nessus, Uranus, Mars and others)

Blessings to All! We have a Grand Fire Trine in the skies involving Jupiter-conjunct-Venus, Uranus and Pallas Athena-Moon, along with a Nodal T-Square involving Vesta-South Node, North Node and The Sun-Mars. Long story short, there’s a lot of expressive, assertive energy bursting into our world, bringing with it the need to surrender the Ego’s understanding of the Self, giving way to the true Form/Flame of Spirit. Those who embody or connect with the Archetype of the Priestess / Spiritual Facilitator will be especially challenged to find that which is authentic within their paths at this time – what with Ixion (The Tyrant), Nessus (The Abuser) and Hubris (Excessive Pride/Arrogance) in the mix. Hang onto your hats!

First, the Grand Fire Trine:

Jupiter (21 Leo) and Venus (21 Leo) focus upon our ability express our deepest vulnerabilities and our authentic selves. Jupiter expands upon and intensifies our need to express the path we believe is true, whilst Venus speaks to us of the embod(y)ment of Spirit into Matter, the energy of the Feminine (in her Assertive/Passive/Formless/Other Forms as well), and the tendency to ignore or distort the blind-spots of our own perception. Jupiter and Venus together can show us the way forwards towards a balanced place of detached perception, one that does not respond to the ego and its dictates. One that does not act out of a wound, but rather transcends it.

On the other hand, Jupiter and Venus can equally magnify the wounded-child-self – where one’s self-expression and methods of evaluating material objects and relationships strongly influenced by the experience of ‘wounding’ / ‘woundedness’. It is where a value system that has been distorted by a particular experience reinforces that view with the power of belief.

Jupiter and Venus are conjunct asteroid Isis (22 Leo) – She appears as a powerful Guide to those who reach out to her at this time. However, both Jupiter and Venus trine Ixion, the energy of the Tyrant. Be aware of the tendency to seek to impose your Truth unto others, and yours response to such impositions. Stay authentic, stay open, stay vulnerable and connected with the Fires of Spirit. Responding to such power play in kind, unless it truly cannot be avoided, is ill advised at this time.

Jupiter/Venus/Isis trine Uranus (20 Aries), The Great Awakener/Revealer who has been lighting the rod, or antennae that connects us with a Higher/Deeper sense of Consciousness. It’s a time where new energies and perspectives of the self are likely to break through into being. Watch your communication with friends and in online spaces/networks. Something is about to push through, triggering a profound learning opportunity for understanding what your true embodiment of Divine energy really looks like.

Pallas Athena Retrograde (15 Sagittarius) and the Moon in Sagittarius, together, provide an emotional impetus to act upon one’s belief systems. Many are likely to jump the gun, and feel the need to defend their points of view whilst, simultaneously attacking, the viewpoints of others. A calmer expression of this energy can come about when one is open to experiencing their emotions, and not merely reacting to them.

Looking at the skies – in all honesty, it’s a Kite rather than a Grand Fire Trine – completed by Mercury’s (17 Gemini) opposition to Pallas Athena-Moon. This only heightens the emphasis on communication, and its role in propelling this fiery, assertive, energy forward. Many are likely to be revisiting early childhood triggers that conditioned a person to see themselves in a a particular way. There’s likely to be strong reactions surrounding a person’s right to embody or walk on particular spiritual paths, and early experiences that denied them those freedoms.

In short – there’s the great potential to burn through the falsehoods that surround the self altogether, and there’s equally the potential to burn in them (and then to valorize it). How honest you are about which of the two processes you’re a part of depends entirely upon you.

It’s not a great day to seek out the wisdom of others as the Self is quite likely to rebel against any other source of Wisdom, no matter how sound it may be. (Probably why I had the message to bring the Vesta-Sessions to a close today).

Now, onto VESTA’S CHALLENGE:

We have a very powerful T-Square involving Vesta (7 Aries)-South Node (5 Aries), North Node (5 Libra) and The Sun (8 Cancer) -and-Mars (4 Cancer). T-Squares are intense, dynamic and ultimately creative sources of birthing new energy. They’re tense alignments that push through with new forms of consciousness, much in the same way a child is forced out of the birth canal.

Vesta conjunct the South Node deals with our Soul’s engagement with the archetype of the Priestess/Facilitator in Aries. That’s a very very individualized path, and so, it’s hard to generalize what that will look and feel like for everyone. What I have seen, however, is that the Vesta-in-Aries theme is one that focuses upon the embodiment of the Priestess Archetype.

Up to a certain point, the Path tends to need the explicit expression and declaration of ‘I AM SHE’ ; I AM HER SERVANT ; I AM A DAUGHTER OF THE DIVINE ; I AM PRIESTESS ; I AM GODDESS RISING’ and so on and so forth (Or Son, or Child, you know what I mean – and Priestess as an archetype is not, just to be clear, limited to a single gender).

At some point, from what I’ve observed in myself and others … that need to outwardly express the Self-as-Divine tends to go. Once you realize, with every fiber and cell in your body, exactly what you are … you no longer need to say it. It speaks the moment you enter a room. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t say it, it just makes it a very different vibration of Priestess-ing/Facilitation when you truly do so, having realized just What You Are. A Expression of Source, of Divinity.

Some Priestesses will take this vibration and embody it as part of a public path, whereas others will do it in private. Some will use ceremonial robes and headdresses, and others will not. Some will bear the title, and others will eschew it. All choices are equally sacred.

But, conversely, and I know this is not a happy thing to discuss – as a fellow Priestess Sister wrote to me recently (and I’m sure she wouldn’t mind me quoting her here), there is also the increasing tendency to ‘play dress-up’ and to label the self as Priestess/Goddess/etc. without embodying that vibration within. I know people dislike speaking about it, but that’s exactly why it needs to be discussed.

In the skies now, we have Vesta trined Hybris (7 Sagittarius), essentially a body that deals with the quality of Hubris (knowing it all, arrogance, excessive pride, and so on). It’s going to be a time where some Priestesses cast their hubris into the flames, and others conflate their path with it.

In other words – There’s a huge difference between the Ego declaring the Self to be Divine, and Spirit making that realization. A delicate point, but clearly demarcated in the skies. One who has walked the path long enough (in this lifetime, or across various lifetimes) will instantly be able to perceive the difference – again – something which the current discourse on Spirituality and Priestessing finds hard to accept. Issues with being judged, or evaluated come to the fore, with the unspoken resentment of How Dare You Judge Me?

Every Priestess, Every Facilitator that has been around long enough has made ass of themselves by believing themselves to have ‘arrived’ and rejecting an authority figure/mentor/teacher/guide/friend who presents an alternative – Myself included. It’s a part of the learning curve … and nothing to feel ashamed, resentful or defensive about. Vesta trined Hybris, however, presents that as a challenge to all awakening Priestesses / Facilitators.

Coming back to the larger astrological alignment at play:

Vesta conjunct the South Node in Aries challenges us to place the parts of the Ego that require ourselves to declare our identities as Priestesses – embodying that vibration instead, only when guided by Spirit. The North Node, asks us to take the Ego and its Wounds surrounding the archetype of the Facilitator and to transform them into a more detached, balanced understanding of what it means to be the Spiritual Bridge.

The Sun/Mars in Cancer square the Nodes/Vesta, forming the apex of the T-Square. Emotions are likely to run high and to head for overkill – so try to step away from any such situation and find a place of balance once more.

Also bear in mind that Mars is trined Nessus (3 Pisces) in the skies. Nessus reflects one of the deepest wounds that we bear, disconnecting us from the erotic, passionate, sparkling-with-life-quality love affair that we can have with the Universe. It’s a vulnerable day in which we explore the wounds of projection, passive-aggression, narcissism, and the lack of boundaries – related to past-life dynamics, our relationship with the Masculine, the Mother, our relationship with Mystery or the most formless aspects of the Spirit, with the Mystic within, and so on and so forth. Quite a gambit of archetypes triggered by that one alignment.

Taking these aspects together, the skies brim with assertive, powerful energies of self-expression, at multiple levels. What is important to remember is that what we feel, may not always reflect our deepest sense of self. What we believe may shift, What we perceive may be a distorted reflection of that which is seen.

In short, it is a day where many will rise and roar – but the real question is – what are they roaring for? The Ego? The Spirit? The Heart?

Are you ready to burn away the Ego that seeks to appropriate the I-AM-Rising/Embodying energy for its own ends?

Are you ready to cast the Priestess Archetype into the Flames of Spirit? What will then emerge?

As for me – I’m considering letting go of the Priestess Title. I’m moving into a new space and I’m not sure what to even call it. Am having my Vesta Return, we’ll see what She says …  I suspect many answers – to many questions – will come through when Vesta returns to 7 Aries on September 22/23, 2015 and again on January 4/5, 2016.

Blessings to All,

Priestess Bairavee Balasubramaniam PhD

bairaveebalasubramaniam.com ; fb.com/theskypriestess ; @theskypriestess (on Twitter)

Astrology with Priestess Bairavee Balasubramaniam PhD

Images: Astrolog screenshot + Priestess of Delphi by John Collier [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

Text & Astrology Info © Bairavee Balasubramaniam, 2015. All rights reserved.

JUNO CONJUNCTS JUPITER, TRINES THE GREAT ATTRACTOR: 14 Leo ’49 (8:45 pm, May 17 2015, GMT + 8)

Blessings to All. Today we see the powerful culmination of energy between The Bringer of Abundance (Jupiter) and the Soulmate Asteroid (Juno). These two have been dancing in close proximity for days now, and today we feel their most intense point of merger, or conjunction – in the sign of Leo.

Let’s start with Leo – here is the sign that rules matters of the heart – romance, joy, vitality – that feeling you get when you’re just happy to be alive and filled with joie de vivre! It is associated with the archetypes of the dramatic performer, the child along with processes of creation, co-creation, reproduction, sensuality and the flow of sexual energy. I associate it with both the Heart and Sacral Chakra.

Whilst Leo is associated with that sun-shiney quality of being able to charm, persuade and enthrall, it is equally associated with the possibility of performing in inauthentic ways, i.e. wearing masks or roles to elicit a certain response from others. The gift of Leo’s ability to perform, prance about on the global stage as a playful lion, is that is can also reveal the power of vulnerability, authenticity and the wisdom of the inner child. The setback is when such performances block the very flow of authenticity in order to either mask the vulnerability and truth of self (from the self, or others), or to engineer particular responses.

Jupiter’s role in Leo is to show us the Path forward – the ways in which we can expand our sense of ourselves within the larger Universe. Be it through a mentor, a teacher, a priest or priestess, a guide, a philosophy, a belief system, an astrologer, or anyone/anything that helps you widen your horizons – Jupiter is paving the way forward for your growth and exploration of self. It is the Great Amplifier, which can work both ways. It expands upon all that it touches – both pleasurable, and painful experiences (and both might be valid/necessary for soul growth).

Juno’s role, as I have been guided to intuit her, expands us in a different way. It opens doors for the soul’s evolution, through which we walk and explore ourselves in a wholly new direction. Here, the agent of initiation is not Jupiter, seeking to lay the path for us to walk upon – it is the Alchemy of Soul Transformation – which occurs through the energy of the SoulMate (Juno). Very often we believe that Soulmates are necessarily romantic or sexual partners, but this truly need not be the case. They can just as well be children, siblings, parents – and – as I’ve seen in some clients’ charts – even those who appear in our lives as ‘abusers’.

You might ask why someone who would hurt you would be a ‘soulmate’ – use the word ‘soul awakener’ if you prefer. For that is what Juno represents, an awakening of the Soul at a profound level in ways that leave you completely transformed. At time such transformations are pleasant, and at other times they are the absolute opposite.

Jupiter being able to swing either way essentially amplifies the intensity of the Soul-Contract being activated today, in ways that awaken us to the Paths our Souls seek.

Bear in mind that Juno is the spouse of Jupiter in mythology – their coming together in this form represents the merging of various sacred archetypes (and the projections upon them). Juno (as Hera) – the vindictive/jealous wife, Jupiter (as Zeus) the philandering patriarch. The more positive associations see Juno as the goddess of liminality (as I understand her), giving rise to new states of being through the life cycle (birth, marriage, and so on). Jupiter provides the guidance, elemental power, and the sheer presence of authority. For starters …

In Leo, the Jupiter/Juno conjunction may manifest as a wide range of circumstances and/or people – lovers, children, teachers, mentors, astrologers, guides, gurus – or simply people with whom you have already made a Soul Contract prior to incarnation in order to facilitate your awakening process at this time.

Either way, it is an extremely intense alignment. When we consider other bodies in astrology, we see further aspects which provide a more detailed understanding of what this conjunction brings to us at the energetic level:

Jupiter/Juno (14 Leo) :

– inconjunct PLUTO RETROGRADE (15 Capricorn) – This is the biggest alignment that Jupiter/Juno make in terms of the concerns of traditional astrology. Pluto rules over the great transformations in our lives, and in Capricorn, concerns itself with the question of authority, status, and the legacy that one leaves behind. Inconjuncts are uncomfortable aspects, and they raise issues in critical ways that appear to be in need of resolution. Pluto’s involvement can signify a potential abuse (real or perceived) of power and/or the invasion of privacy and other boundaries. In Capricorn, it is likely to involve a heavy-handed authority at the workplace, or someone else perceived to be in a senior capacity. Those with placements near 12-18 Gemini (see below) will experience this as an extremely intense Yod.

– trine GREAT ATTRACTOR (14 Sagittarius) – The Great Attractor, as I’ve written about before, is essentially a point in the chart that will draw, or repel attention to your path/ideas/belief systems/teachings in the public eye. People may be drawn to you, particularly if you are a wisdom speaker of some kind, whilst others may simply be repelled for no apparent reason. Jupiter/Juno’s lessons are drawn towards the Great Attractor, powerfully pulling us towards our paths and paradigms.

– square DEUCALION (14 Scorpio) – Deucalion reminds us that we have a choice in the way we deal with forces of destiny that seem too large to handle. One of our best approaches in managing the energy of Jupiter/Juno is to consider the roots or energy that arises – finding its truth and how it relates to one/another person’s need for control and power. Once you find your answer, you’ll know whether to walk, surrender, or stay put.

– sextile PANDORA (14 Gemini) – a supportive alignment that asks us to bear in mind the information that we share, discover or reveal about potentially sensitive situations today. Truth is wonderful, but there is a means, a time and a place where it is best revealed. This is part of a Yod (Finger of Fate) with its apex at Pluto Retrograde (15 Capricorn). Bear in mind that Mercury is about to go Retrograde close to Pandora – the role of communications is highlighted even more strongly!

– conjunct NIOBE (14 Leo) – Niobe is a warning. She cautions us against becoming too attached to our children, seeing them as proxies to find one own’s sense of ‘glory’, ‘worth’, or ‘achievement’. In a broader sense, she calls us to remain humble about our creative works, and to realize the hand of serendipity, the Mystery and the Cosmic in the co-creative process.

– trine HYBRIS (15 Sagittarius) – Like Niobe, Hybris is a similar kind of warning. Do your level best to avoid bragging with the ego (cutting a long story short) or giving into a sense of false pride. Irrespective of talent or status, it is worth bearing in mind that there is always a greater or larger force beyond ourselves that works through all that we do.

– trine PHOTOGRAPHICA (15 Sagittarius) – Quite a potent emphasis upon the visual image and the role in interpreting the image. It might be a great day to express whatever ideas or thoughts that arise through the visual/graphic form.

Bearing these influences in mind, what we see is an intense energetic alignment that awakens us to the deeper truths of the Self. And certain aspects of the energy will support this process, whilst others will test us in key ways.

Vanakam.

Priestess Bairavee Balasubramaniam PhD

Astrology with Priestess Bairavee Balasubramaniam PhD

bairaveebalasubramaniam.com ; fb.com/theskypriestess

Image: James Barry [Public domain or Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons.
Text © Bairavee Balasubramaniam, 2015. All rights reserved.

MERCURY CONJUNCTS VESTA ( + CIRCE ) – The Priestess Receives the Message and Begins to Heal her Womb, Be-friending the Serpent & Transforming the Cosmos (Pt. 2)

Blessings to All. This is an exciting energy for all those who walk the Path of the Spiritual Facilitator, in service of the Rising Feminine Principle. Thanks to a beautiful conjunction between Mercury (The Messenger), Vesta (The Priestess) and Circe (The Sexual Alchemist) at 17 Aquarius, we are collectively opening ourselves up to powerful messages that can shape the Path of Service we walk on and experience, and to begin the Healing of the Womb. As we do so, we will also need to face some of our deepest fears surrounding the Power of the Womb and its Vulnerabilities.

Basically – It’s an excellent time to work with facilitators you trust, who can receive cosmic information as clear channels. Many of you will be ‘turning a corner’ in your own emergence as Priestesses, Priests, Shamans, Shamankas, Healers, etc.

I’m going to links to a few meditations and make a few suggestions before diving into the Hardcore Astrology – with Zeus, Chaos, Dionysus, Ceto, Achilles, Varda, Hybris, Toro and Circe (The Sexual Alchemist). So hang on to your hats!

In terms of meditations and practical guidance, I can recommend a few:

(1) Your Feminine Essence: The Kore of Female Spirituality –https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2JwxC4vq9ko

By Marie de Kock at http://marie-de-kock.wix.com/femininessence [Check out her E-book on “Heal your Feminine Essence A Transformative Journey Within For Women who Wish to be Free”]

 

(2) Naomi Wolf’s Vagina: A New Biography – Recommended Reading for just about Everyone on the Planet. [ Updated Version: http://www.amazon.com/Vagina-Revised-Updated-N…/…/0061989177 ]

Here we see the intricately woven, neuro-biological connection between the female sexual center, the brain, consciousness, spirituality and orgasm. Not a spiritual practice per se, but certainly something that can help you become more aware of Sacral Energy, and the Wisdom of the Womb.

(4) Gemstones such as Rose Quartz, Rhodocrosite, Carnelian will gently allow you to work with these powerful energies. Essential oils such as Rose and Neem will also help (use a carrier oil if you’re sensitive).

(5) Deities: Whomever you feel guided to. Goddess Ishtar, Goddess Venus, Goddess Isis, Goddess Durga, The Serpent Goddess (in her many forms, and others, for starters.  Male deities/archetypes who honor their connection with the Great Mother such as Lord Cernunnos, Lord Shiva, etc.

What comes next in this article is a detailed narrative of how this Womb-Working Journey will unfold – using the road-map provided by astrological alignments. You are invited to engage with it and to take the time with as I am using astrological archetypes, couched in terms of spiritual, mythological and psychological narratives. In any case, the gist of the alignment is already summarized in the first 2 paragraphs  you have the basics of what you need to know there, along with practical guidance.

So – those of you wanting to go further, get deeper … and into the epic astrology of this energetic alignment – let’s Begin 😀

THE ASTROLOGY OF IT ALL

All of this wondrous opportunities for healing the womb are supported by a powerful Grand Air Trine involving Zeus (17 Libra) and Dionysus (17 Gemini) and Chaos (18 Gemini), along with a Sextile to Varda/Hybris/Toro at (16-17 Sagittarius). The more challenging aspects come from Ceto (17 Scorpio), Sila-Numam (16 Leo) and Achilles (16 Scorpio). I’ll explain what all of that means.

This is the third time that Mercury (The Messenger) has conjuncted Vesta (The Priestess) in the past few months – (1) December 23/24, 2014 at 10 Capricorn, (2) Februrary 5, 2015 at 3 Aquarius (with Mercury in Retrograde) and (3) (today) March 4, 2015 at 17 Aquarius. Mercury is also now Out of its Shadow Phase and moving full steam ahead! (Whoo!)

Look back to these two dates to see the full implications of the Message that Mercury brings to you now. Conjunct Vesta (the Goddess Asteroid of Priestessing), the message deals with the archetype of the Spiritual Facilitator and the kinds of wisdom that S/he can help you access. As both these bodies are now in Aquarius, the focus is on how we can communicate directly with/through the Cosmos, via the Collective. It is a fantastic energy that can be used to reach out to kindred spirits who share the same spiritual values, mission and ideals as you, and to find spaces in which you can offer your individual gifts to a collective cause – if you are a facilitator yourself. If not, it is an excellent time to receive messages from facilitators, in turn.

I also refer you to Pt. 1 of this article which describes the 2nd Mercury (Rx) – Vesta conjunction. http://wp.me/p4OUNS-jF

Now… we get to the fun stuff 😉 – the deeper astrological narratives that come through and give life to this alignment –  Mercury/Vesta:

CONJUNCT CIRCE – THE SORCERESS! (17 Aquarius) Circe represents the knowledge of sexual alchemy and deep magic. Caution is needed here to learn how to use this knowledge in ways that empower the self and others, rather than to subjugate. The wisdom and power of this Sorceress is also present as a profound influence at this time and can represent a deep gateway to accessing the Wisdom and Memories of the Womb and Sacral Energy. Those who identify as male will experience the same, but in a different way. It is likely that you will know about experiences from the past where you have been involved with a violation of sexual/sacral/fertile energy in some way.

SEXTILE VARDA/HYBRIS (at 17 Sagittarius) and TORO (at 16 Sagittarius). Many revelations can come through a reading of the stars (Varda), and ones which help you reveal layers of egoic conditioning that keep you from seeing who you truly are (Hybris). We draw upon the energy of the Bull (Toro) in charging through those out-dated perceptions and ways of being – but be warned that Bull can also keep in place these perceptions out of sheer stubbornness!

Those with placements between 10-23 Cancer will experience this as part of a profound Yod (Finger of Fate). They are advised to work with the disciplines of astrology, astronomy, or simply ‘speaking to the stars and opening your hearts to the Universe’. These individuals will be able to learn a lot about who they are and what acts of facilitation they came to perform and experiencing.. If you’re interested in doing so with me, I’d recommend the Soul Portrait Session – http://wp.me/p4OUNS-kb .

IN A GRAND AIR TRINE WITH ZEUS (17 Libra), DIONYSUS (17 Gemini) AND CHAOS (18 Gemini) – Without going into too much detail, the Mercury/Vesta/Circe conjunction is amplified by the intensely focused, powerful Being that is Zeus himself. Mythologically, Zeus – as the Patriarch – has been involved in the sexual conquest of female beings, often appearing through various disguises and ruses. I wouldn’t be surprised if this particular theme came up in our sacral processing – irrespective of whether we identify as male or female or neither or both in this lifetime. Dionysus warns us of sensual excesses and asks us to focus upon these lessons and experiences with a certain degree of sobriety :D, not seeking to lose th self the process (which is very different from ego-dissolution).

And finally – Chaos – in this context, is not something to be feared. In its original sense, Chaos referred to the ‘Gaping Void’. To me, it speaks to the idea of a tunnel, through which something emerges. It is a beautiful metaphor that speaks directly to the Womb itself, or the Birth Canal through which New Life Emerges. Issues or incidents surrounding the formative years of childhood may also come up for many at this time. Don’t be afraid, just accept it as part of the processing, or karmic work, that you came to do.

Here we get to the challenging bits – Mercury/Vesta/Circe:

SQUARE CETO (17 Scorpio) – Ceto represents our deepest sub-conscious fears. In mythology, Ceto was the giant sea-serpent that engulfed ships – a motif that is echoed across the globe. It is here that we must face the fear of the Deep Ocean, The Abyss, and the nature of Serpent Energy. Serpent Priestesses, Ocean/Sea Priestesses, Priestesses who remember or who are associated with the sunken energies of Atlantis, Mu, Lemuria, Kumari Kandam, etc. will all be feeling this profound energy – as they begin to feel into their Womb-Sacral Complex.. Some may also revisit fears of drowning, or other intense experiences with water. Transcending your Ceto, or ‘Making Friends with your Giant Sea Serpent’ is part and parcel of the Spiritual Journey. It represents a great milestone in learning to access the Deep Sub-Conscious. Ceto, the Serpent, is not something to be slain, but understood, and if possible, healed.

SQUARE ACHILLES (16 Scorpio) – Achilles represents a point where, despite feelings of invincibility, we bear our deepest vulnerabilities. The idea of invincibility in itself can be a dangerous one to hold in any spiritual tradition, as it often feeds into the ego seeking to self-aggrandize. To me, the warrior who knows his or her vulnerabilities is far more prepared, than one who does not.

In Scorpio, the vulnerability – once again – is centered upon the Sacral Chakra – and for women (and men in tune with this aspect of themselves) – situated within the Womb. Remember that the bodies we are in now are just for this lifetime – we are likely to have had memories and experiences of being other sexes/genders in earlier times. The Soul Remembers..

As we Rise and Celebrate the Feminine Principle once more – it is vital to honor both the Power and the Vulnerability of the Womb and the Feminine Essence that it contains. It is also counterproductive to engage in the narrative of blame, shame, guilt, victimization as we do so – as that only feeds further into maintaining the Wound, rather seeking its release. This is a huge topic in itself, but you can refer to my earlier posts for more on that.

Ceto- the Feared Serpent – rears his head here, showing you the places where you can spread your web of healing and integration onto:)

OPPOSITE SILA-NUNAM (16 Leo) – Sila-Nunam’s role in this picture is … less of a challenge that may frighten you … but more of one that can excite you. It opposes Mercury/Vesta/Circe and, along with it, forms a Kite that weaves in the Grand Air Trine. Ceto/Achilles and Sila-Nunam make a T-Square aspect to Mercury/Vesta/Circe. In some sense, you can think of Sila-Nunam as the destination point or direction that all these energies are asking you to walk towards. Please note that those with placements between 10-23 Taurus will experience this as a Grand Fixed Cross – time to shift what no longer works;)

Rather than running into a situation yelling Charrrrggee!! or using metaphors of battle where you have to ‘defeat’ the energy that you fear – Sila-Nunam asks you to take the opposite approach. This is where acceptance and love wields a greater power in integration and healing of the Seat of the Sacral Chakra (represented here by Leo – it’s amazing how many Sacral Activations are a part of this alignment).

Here we are called to Play with the Serpent, and hug the Vulnerabilities of the Wounded Inner Child. We are called to hold Him/Her in a Loving Embrace and to practice Self-Compassion, Acceptance and Serenity. Through all of the intensity of the other aspects, we are – at the end of it all – asked to come to terms with and find a sense of peace with the many layers and complexities of our Sacral Energy. And much of that will involve a processing of deep wounds and hurts.

What can result from this, is a profound breakthrough in the way you relate to this delicate, intimate part of yourselves – that represents the seed of your creative, reproductive, joyful and authentic Being! It is also here that you can find the gifts that allow you to Co-Create a Powerful Reality of your Choice, with the Cosmos (coming back to Aquarius and the Collective).

This is a fantastic alignment for all beings. Whilst there are challenges to be met, these will only help you find a deeper, truer, sense of peace, grace and healing compassion – starting with Yourself ❤

Blessings to All! I’m excited for each and every one of you! 🙂

Priestess Bairavee Balasubramaniam PhD
bairaveebalasubramaniam.com
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Page: Astrology with Priestess Bairavee Balasubramaniam PhD

Image: Manasa, the Snake Goddess (6124609239).jpg – By English: thesandiegomuseumofartcollection (Flickr) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

Text © Bairavee Balasubramaniam, 2015

CELESTIAL DYNAMICS: MOON/SATURN/PALLAS SQUARES MARS/NEPTUNE AND BLACK MOON LILITH – MUTABLE T-SQUARE

Blessings to all. It’s been a fairly intense start to the new year, with January (still) being dominated by the energy of a double Yod, 2 long-term T Squares, and a Mystic Rectangle in the skies, addressed in previous articles.

Today I want to tell you about the re-ignition of one of those T-Squares, involving Mars in Pisces, Saturn / Moon / Pallas in Sagittarius and Black Moon Lilith in Virgo. This alignment creates what is known as a Mutable T-Square. Let’s talk a little bit about what that means first for newcomers to astrology before getting to the actual dynamics themselves. Scroll down if you just want to head straight to the interpretations – this is going to be a longer piece than usual x

[Please note that the Moon/Pallas Athena/Saturn component of this alignment is woven into the Great Goddess Fire Trine – http://wp.me/p4OUNS-bb – with Uranus and Juno, and as part of a Grand Sextile – http://wp.me/p4OUNS-hO – that lasts for the next 24 hours]

THE MUTABLE T-SQUARE

Mutable refers to the fact that all bodies involved in this alignment are from the Mutable Signs (Gemini, Sagittarius, Pisces, Virgo). Mutable energy is effectively energy that asks you to adapt, adjust and attune yourself to new situations. Think of the way that clay can take just about any form you mold it into and there you have a perfect example of Mutable energy in action.

Squares in general are described as stressful, tense aspects. This is not always a bad thing. Think of the way in which the right kind of pressure can turn a piece of coal into diamond, or how a certain degree of challenge can motivate you to go further along in your journey. Such is the power of the Square – it facilitates creative breakthroughs and the discovery of new solutions that transcend old hierarchies or understandings of power (as I see them). However, if the Square aspect is seen as a burden to bear, then … it shall be but all but too happy to oblige you by playing the role to perfection. So how squares affect you really depend upon the way you view them – as challenges to face, obstacles to be blocked by, or the opportunity for a new energy of creation to be birthed!

A T-Square is formed by three bodies – The apex of the alignment links to the other two by way of a square aspect (each), whilst the other two bodies are opposed one another. The Apex of the T-Square is generally the point where the greatest creative tension/pressure is expressed and experienced. In this case, that is the powerful stellium (grouping) of the Moon, Saturn and Pallas Athena in Sagittarius – to which we now turn.

SATURN, PALLAS ATHENA AND THE MOON IN SAGITTARIUS

Saturn (2 Sagittarius) asks us to look at the structures or foundations of the ways in which we see the world, be it through philosophy, ideology, academic perspectives, organized religion, adventures, foreign travel and so forth. Saturn can create a restriction on such energies , simply to teach us that – sometimes – ‘less is more’. We are also called to question those we see as authorities in these aspects of our lives (mentors, teachers, spiritual figures, etc. ) and to see whether their actions obey the dharmic principle, or constitute an abuse of their power and status.

Pallas Athena (7 Sagittarius) Goddess Asteroid blesses us with the gifts of Strategy, Insight, the ability to perceive what is desired and to find ways to acquire it, judgment/discernment, and so on. We stand our ground and hold our spears aloft in defense of our Truths, or conversely know when to remain silent and/or retreat if certain battles are simply unnecessary.

The Moon (5 Sagittarius) draws out our deepest emotions, intentions and sub-conscious scripts related to the ‘different ways of knowing’ previously discussed. We may find the Moon’s energy as one which inspires us to take an adventure (be it through the mind or the body) and discover perspectives that can potentially challenge our own! The flip-side of the Moon here can manifest as a desire to experience that which confirms our basic view of the world and the way we relate to it – or even, to retreat into the comfort of the familiar, forsaking the unknown. For some, the Moon’s presence here can lead to a greater sense of attachment to particular viewpoints, and thus lead to a more polarized expression of one’s Search for Truth and Meaning. One might also find their biological mother as a catalyst in triggering this particular T-Square as she may express certain ideas that deeply touch or affect your most cherished world-views.

Please note that asteroid Hybris is at 7 Sagittarius, quite literally representing what it sounds like – the quality of Hubris! Be open to questioning your perspectives and established ways of looking at things. If you’re overly defensive about your views, chances are you need to dig a little deeper.

Taking this together, the Moon – Pallas Athena – Saturn stellium in Sagittarius is really about the search for what kinds of ways of viewing the world (and your place in it) are truly enduring. It is a search of truth, but through different aspects of the self, bridging logic, emotions, intuitions and so on.

These energies are triggered, on either side by squares from Mars / Neptune in Pisces and Black Moon Lilith in Virgo.

NEPTUNE, PISCES AND MARS

Neptune (5 Pisces) is the energy of the Infinite, Cosmic, Ocean, associated with the sign of Pisces. It houses the boundary between Maya and concepts of ‘Authentic’ or ‘True’ Reality, and represents the place in the chart where you are most likely to touch (at least with your fingertips) some aspect of Divinity, Spirit or Soul. These are energies that know no limitation or boundary, just as the Ocean does. They cleanse you from within and remind you of the Interconnectedness of All. Just as a gentle sea and a ferocious tsunami both erode away at the material boundaries that seek to define them, the energy of Neptune is the ultimate expression of Formless Dissolution.

And through this Dissolution of Form, this Death of Ego and parting of the Veil, Neptune ultimately leads you to a state of Transcendental Compassion, associated with spiritual figures such as Jesus of Narazeth and Lord Shiva. Whilst embedded in very different spiritual traditions, they share certain key similarities (possibly material for another post).

Neptune/Pisces energy will also allow you to look back to different time-lines and show you the hidden history of the Soul through many incarnations. In Pisces, its home sign, Neptune’s energy is felt even more intensely – especially as it is now activated by Mars!

Mars (3 Pisces) is linked to our drives, our ability to go forth and acquire or actualize that which we desire – and with the animus (male aspect of psyche) in all beings. He is, in mythology, the God of War.

In Pisces, The Warrior Energy, represented by Mars, meets the Cosmic Ocean, represented by Neptune/Pisces. The martial drive of Mars is challenged here. Just as you cannot charge through a body of water, or seek to separate yourself from it – Mars is challenged to adopt a different perspective so that it can use its energy.

The Warrior, in this sign, is asked to find a way to surrender His/Her Ego (the usual basis for desires, and subsequent action) to a much larger principle. Rather than charging through, Mars has to learn how to meander, how to sway, how to find subtlety, how to move through the secret cracks in the walls towards its destination. Somehow its energy becomes more secret, hidden, mysterious and elusive. We see the movement and power of the Warrior indirectly, in the same way that we see the story told by a shadow puppet only on the canvas in front of it. (an allegory that reminds me of Plato’s cave and the reflections on the walls that appeared to be true – but that’s a different story).

In an everyday sense, this may refer to a need to stop trying to push, contain or be rigid about the way we feel we need to act on certain things. Let our actions and ‘pushes’ come from within and be guided by a different kind of direction. One aligned with what we call Spirit.

Owing to Neptune/Pisces’ relationship with past karma, many of us will be re-discovering the (formerly) hidden abuses of assertive, martial power we either engaged in and/or were subjected to. In cases like these, self loathing is not the answer – simply allow the past to Dissolve in the Waters of Spirit, and allow them to cleanse you anew. Self-forgiveness and compassion for yourself is one of the best things you can do if you find yourself in this position. Cycles of blame, shame, victimization only repeat the past.

Let this be a deep time of processing as we prepare for the end of one Mars cycle – and the beginning of a new one (as it enters Aries). Please bear in mind that excesses of Piscean energy are associated with different kinds of addictions, obsessive behaviors, forms of escapism (be it through substances, people, etc.) and that those with tendencies are advised to practice greater self-care through this period. Some of the deep emotions that arise at this time may be riddled with illusions you bear about your own self-worth and purpose — so remember to take it easy on yourself, as best you can. Others may find themselves comfortable with romanticized illusions that veer away from the work that needs to be done. Another possibility to bear in mind.

So, taken together – Mars and Neptune in Pisces challenge the way we connect with Spirit through the Warrior Archetype within ourselves. A great deal of cleansing and healing is possible through this placement – but equally, the possibility of illusion and escapism.

This is supported by the presence of asteroid Psyche at 9 Pisces – we are literally called to rewrite the subconscious scripts that have dominated this part of our lives. Asteroid Urania at 5 Pisces indicates that the medium of astrology, or simply communing with the Cosmos is an excellent way to achieve this re-scripting. Asteroid Eros at 2 Pisces refers to the role of a desired romantic or sexual partner in triggering this wound, and potentially healing it. Asteroid Orpheus at 6 Pisces asks us to trust this process of healing, and to avoid obsessively picking at it – in the way we scratch at fresh scars to see if they’ve done healing (and thwart the process).

In other words, whatever processing you do right now will take time to come to the surface, trust that it will and keep moving through it.

All this Pisces energy is squared Pallas Athena / Saturn / Moon and opposed Black Moon Lilith in Virgo, to whom we now turn.

BLACK MOON LILITH IN VIRGO

The final component of this T-Square is Black Moon Lilith in Virgo. She tells us about aspects of the Dark / Suppressed / Rising Feminine and what kinds of projections surround this Rising Energy. In Virgo, BM Lilith asks us to look at the difference between Subservience and the Path of Service, Sensuality vs. Virginity, Feminine Independence vs. Total Submission. I’m phrasing these in terms of binaries and dualities, but these questions are a lot more nuanced than that, just as their answers are.

In Virgo, the archetype of the Priestess, Black Moon Lilith Rises! She says ‘ I shall Serve on my own terms. I shall own my body and its sensuality and express it on my terms. I shall find a way to materialize my deepest spiritual goals in a material form that honors me, and others. I honor the Sacred Feminine, the very flesh that houses my Spirit ‘.

I find that the energy of Lilith defies what is expected of women (at this time), and of the Feminine Principle in all beings. I find many of her interpretations to reflect that perception of her, rather than expressing who She is. I would say – as a friend helped me understand deeper – that the stigma associated with Lilith lies in the eyes of those who see her and judge her through their preconceptions. She herself is a different form of Sacred Energy, making herself known.

The point known as Isis-Transpluto at 0 Virgo makes this a time where we reconsider our ideals of purity and service, as we re-integrate the energy of the excluded Feminine into those paradigms. Trans-Neptunian Object Orcus at 6 Virgo acts as a mysterious portal to the Underworld (as its second ruler, after Pluto) – for this rising and reclaiming will be a deep and powerful journey that involves hidden aspects of the self.

CONCLUSION

Taking these three clusters of energy together – we find a powerful connection between Sagittarius-Pisces-Virgo — all of which pose significant challenges to the way we embody, articulate and express our relationship with Spirit – be it through ideas (Sagittarius), experiences (Pisces), or material forms (Virgo). The Masculine principle (Mars) is opposed to the Rising Feminine (Lilith), making this a potent moment for balancing those two dynamics in very specific ways.

One option to stabilize this energy, is to look to the ’empty leg’ of the T-Sqaure, the position that is missing – in order for it to form a more stable Grand Mutable Cross. That would involve working more closely with Gemini energy (and its emphasis on the mind, early childhood perceptions, siblings, self-expression, writing, learning, speaking, and so on). Learn more about whatever it is this T-Square is asking you to face, before trying to meet it head on. It is heartening to see Absolus, the centaur planet at 4 Gemini – representing the energy of the Seer, beckoning us to think first before we act.

Those with placements near 2 Leo will feel a powerful yod created by the sextile between Mars/Neptune and Ceres. For those of you with this placement, you might find yourself making a key decision to do with children, inner child work, creative self-expression, what makes you joyful!, issues surrounding vulnerability, authenticity and/or romantic partnerships.

This alignment is part of a much longer square between Saturn and Neptune (which heads well into 2016) – and so its energies will linger somewhat.

Many Blessings and Much Love to All,

Priestess Bairavee Balasubramaniam PhD
www.bairaveebalasubramaniam.com