EROS, VENUS, APHRODITE AND THE DIVINE MASCULINE : VALENTINE’S DAY ASTROLOGY 2015

Blessings everyone! I know that not all of you celebrate Valentine’s Day, or recognize it as more than a massive earner for the greeting card companies. I still thought it’d be fun to look at the love-centric aspects of today’s skies, whilst (those of you who do) celebrate the day!

THE YOD OF LOVE AND THE DIVINE MASCULINE

Sun (25 Aquarius) sextile Cupido and Pholus (25 Sagittarius) – The Sun represents our waking Consciousness, our spiritual anchorpoint (so to speak) in experiencing and engaging with this reality. In Aquarius is focuses upon the expression of individual gifts, eccentricities, friendships and one’s role in larger groups or associations, particularly to do with altruism, humanitarianism, and other ideals. Cupido is a Uranian planet which acts as a combination of both Venus and Jupiter. Quoting Arlene Kramer, where “Venus means beauty, Cupido means art. Where Venus means love, Cupido means marriage… [it] is the planet of Togetherness”. It relates to the coming together of partnerships within a larger context, where the sum of two is celebrated by the whole. Pholus represents the energy of sudden awakenings, epiphanies, and realizations – it is linked with the energy of one who sees beyond/through the everyday.

The Sun sextiling Cupido at this time represents a harmonious possibility to find a meaningful love connection. It can just as well relate to the opening of your own Heart and Sacral Chakra, without the role of an external partner. With Cupido so close to the Galactic Center (26 Sagittarius), some of the most powerful lessons will will experience now relate with Love in all of its forms. A beautiful astrological aspect to encounter on a day commonly devoted to Love. Pholus’ energies intensify the energy of this sextile by facilitating a great awakening or realization of profound truth (almost out of the blue).

Those with placements at or near 25 Cancer will experience this as a profound Yod, or Karmic Finger of Fate/Destiny. In the skies, we do have asteroid Varuna at 26 Cancer, acting as the apex of the Yod. Varuna is a Dravidian deity who was later incorporated into the Vedic pantheon. He rules over the oceans, the seas and the Water element in general. He is linked with Serpent Energies (particularly that of Lord Vasuki) and rainfall in Nepal, representing a more fluid, water-based connection with Creative, Divine Masculine energy.

Morever, this Yod is activated by a conjunction between Crantor (26 Capricorn) and Siva (25 Capricorn). Crantor represents the cathartic release that a powerful emotional declaration can bring – be sure not to do this for purposes of manipulation, projection, etc. but rather to simply express what resides within you. Siva represents the power of the Divine Masculine Archetype, but specifically associated with the themes of Formlessness and Absolute Compassion. Together, opposing Varuna and forming the midpoint of the Sun/Pholus-Cupido sextile, these energies ask you to boldly speak your Truth.

This alignment opens us up to the more compassionate, tender aspects of Divine Masculine energy – transforming, in the process our abilities to recognize, give and receive love. It can be quite an emotional roller-coaster as old emotions are churned up to the surface for processing, but the result appears to be a major cleansing and re-balancing of energies, attitudes and ideas you may have about the Nature of Love.

EROS CONJUNCTS VENUS, URANIA, PSYCHE OPPOSES IRIS

According to Kim Falconer, Eros (now at 20 Pisces) “evokes passions that ignore lunar comfort, Venus sensuality or Mars desires. Eros is not about relationships that make us feel secure. It is not about getting our way or winning love. It is not about commitment or harmony. Eros describes something altogether different. It describes the nature of erotic love”. Venus (now at 21 Pisces) deals with the very nature of our material incarnation on this plane of reality, all things tangible, physical, sensual – including our most cherished relationships. It can also refer to a partner who expresses more of the ‘feminine’ aspect in the partnership, and one’s own embodiment of that aspect within the psyche. Urania (at 20 Pisces) is the Goddess Muse of Astrology and Astronomy. Psyche (at 21 Pisces) represents our ability to make meanings, weave narratives and live by/through the archetypes within them. Iris (20 Virgo) represents the Rainbow Messenger Goddess who alternatively shows us the way to be lost in the pursuit of an illusion (‘chasing rainbows), or the path – when taken with a measure of balance and groundedness – that allows us to find true satisfaction (i.e. the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow). Iris is also a cathartic force that is linked with the cleansing power of tears.

Taking all this together, we have a powerful combination in Pisces speaking to us of the nature of loving, compassionate detachment. We’re asked to deepen our engagement with relationships of all forms, especially the ones that (in a good way) take us out of our comfort zones. We’re asked to let the relationship, desire or love connection of interest to take us deep into our own hearts, and to truly let ourselves Open in Response. The metric of success in this context isn’t whether a relationship is successful or long-lasting, it’s how deeply it makes us open and feel into our own humanity, and – at a deeper layer of it- an appreciation of something sacred within ourselves – that we share with the rest of Creation.

Some of you will find astrology – or simply communing with the Cosmos – a potent way to navigate your Journey of Love at this time. You will also find the opportunity to break out of old, constricting roles and narratives and into new, uncharted Waters as part of your continued spiritual evolution.

The opposition with Iris basically cautions us against swimming too deeply in the waters of Spirit and asks us to turn back equally to the material manifestations or circumstances prompting these deep emotional engagements. We’re also cautioned to not get ‘too’ hung up on the minor details, and allow things to work out as they will.

I saved a juicy little tidbit for last: EROS (20 Taurus) SEXTILES APHRODITE (20 Pisces)

According to Jacob Schwartz, Aphrodite represents “procreativity through refined expressions of beauty, sex and fertility’. In any case, her energies are linked to the Goddesses Venus and Astarte (and undoubtedly many others). (from ‘The Astrology Book’)

This sextile bridges the powerful union-through-intimacy that Eros can bring (and the powerful Union-in-self that heartbreak from a failure to ‘merge with the Other’ can also initiate) – with the desire to merge physically and romantically in a pleasurable, life-affirming way. Those with placements at or near 20 Libra wil experience this as an electrifying Yod of Sensuality 🙂 The closest body to this point is Askalaphus at 19 Libra – it is the energy of the whistle-blower, one who reveals secrets. It indicates the exploration of previously unknown, potentially taboo subjects within the partnership context.

All in all, the energies of Love and Romance are strongly lit by two powerful Yods and key activations of bodies such as Eros, Venus, Aphrodite and so on. It is a powerful time for the Heart to open and experience Itself. Bear in mind that this can happen through intense pain (such as heartbreak) or joy. Whilst we are all celebrating and deepening/furthering the Feminine Principle, it is crucial to also work with the energies of the Divine Masculine – in general, but especially at this time. There is a tenderness, a softer, compassionate side to the Masculine that more and more are re-discovering now, and today is no exception.

It is my hope that find that Deeper Connection within – and, if appropriate – with the right partner.

Many Blessings to you All on this Valentine’s Day,

Priestess Bairavee Balasubramaniam PhD
www.bairaveebalasubramaniam.com

Some Sources for Reference and Self-Study:
The Astrology Book: The Encyclopedia of Heavenly Influences By James R. Lewis
Eros – http://www.falconastrology.com/discovery.htm
Intro to the Uranian Planets –http://www.arlenekramer.net/uranian_eightplanets.asp

Images:
– Statuette Goddess Louvre AO20127.jpg – By Marie-Lan Nguyen (Own work) [Public domain or Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons
– Lord Shiva w. Headdress of Snakes at Thanjavur Art Gallery, by Bairavee Balasubramaniam, 2010.

TRANSFORMING THE WAY WE LOVE: VENUS APPROACHES NEPTUNE, MARS APPROACHES CHIRON (STELLIUM IN PISCES)

We’ve got Neptune, Venus, Mars and Chiron all together within a 9-10 degree stellium (grouping) in the Sky, along with a few asteroids. They present to us a powerful opportunity to Transform the Way We Love. There’s a lot going on right now astrologically but I feel this is this the most relevant aspect to discuss at this time. Quite a few of us will be feeling the need to retreat or find seclusion amidst all the deep processing that’s going on.

We’re looking at the Soul’s Wounds (Chiron) sustained in the Feminine (Venus) and Masculine (Mars) [however you define the two], embedded in the history/biography of our individual Spiritual Journeys (Pisces/Neptune) and the collective Journey we are all a part of. You’re looking a deep examination of our drives, assertiveness, desires, value systems, relationships, all aspects of material life and attachment to such, soul’s wounds, karmic dynamics, connection with Spirit, anima/animus [gendered aspects of the psyche as conventionally defined] — a lot gets covered in this stellium! And as you’ll see below – there’s going to be a strong focus on LOVE. (Quite appropriate as part of the build-up to the Leo Full Moon – Leo rules of matters of the heart and the kind of joy that romance can bring, and many other things)

The asteroids involved are: Teharonhiawako – 9 Pisces, Eros – 11 Pisces – Urania – 12 Pisces – Psyche – 15 Pisces – Borasisi – 16 Pisces – Orpheus – 16 Pisces — Without going into too much detail – this is the message that they convey:

We are asked to confront the known and unknown (light and dark) aspects of our selves to realize and transcend false binaries/dualities/ideas that we have about ourselves and our spiritual paths (Teharonhiawako). Borasisi’s energy encourages us to lift the veil of Maya that separates our illusions from some truer understanding of reality. In so doing, we are asked to uncover and let go of old scripts, narratives and ingrained patterns of thought we have about ourselves. For instance, people often have the script of ‘victimhood’ or being undeserving somehow running through our heads, almost on autopilot, whilst the parts of ourselves we are aware of try to learn new ways of defining our own stories. The veil is particularly thin now (in more ways than one) – it’s an excellent time to de-clutter the subconscious and release your hold on what no longer serves your path or purpose.

Eros focuses these energies upon the way in we we seek completion through union, with a special focus on the erotic. It may not always refer to intercourse as it is perfectly possibly to passionate about something abstract in the same way. The way we love, in all its flavours (as Venus is in the mix) is being strongly focused upon at this time.

Orpheus adds poetry, nuance and ability to move another being through artistic (verbal, musical) expression of some kind. He nearly brought back his wife Eurydice from the Netherworld, having moved its Lord and Lady with his hauntingly beautiful music and poetry. He speaks to (again) the extent of what we will do for love. Unfortunately, Orpheus fails to comply with the one condition stipulated to him – that he must not turn back to look till he reaches the world of the living once more. This asteroid also teaches the the power of faith and cautions us against giving into our insecurities, lest we sabotage our own efforts. (They are ultimately reunited though, upon his own death).

Finally, Urania – the Muse of Astrology and Astronomy – indicates deeper insights to be found in our current journey from the stars themselves. This is an excellent time to consult with your astrologer of choice – or to simply open yourselves to the messages of the Cosmos.

So taking it all together – there’s a powerful emphasis on some of the most fundamental drives that make up the human condition – Love and what we’d do for it – highlighted in the Sky. Along with the kind of surrender, faith and sacrifice of perspectives that Pisces often asks of us. It’s very likely to involve karmic dynamics now rising to the surface of your consciousness – chances are that your relationship with whatever person/object/idea/etc. that your energies are focused upon is something that is built upon earlier experiences in your Soul’s Journey.

None of this is happening in a logical, rational, straightforward way – we’re all in a big boat, riding the same waves of Mystery and Spirit. Trying to make sense of what you’re feeling through the lens of logic can – for most – be an exercise in frustration at this time. So what can you do?

It’s a good time to relax, meditate, find seclusion in nature, or simply someplace quiet enough to simply ‘just be’. Some of you may be feeling extra sensitive or vulnerable at this time – Neptune/Pisces’ energies can also be used to fuel escapist tendencies (be it through substances, people, fantasies, obsessions, etc. ). Those who feel in need of support are advised to the seek the company of reliable care-givers at this time (e.g. solid friends or family who understand, or even a community group of some kind). Some of you will enjoy the solitude and others will be overwhelmed by the prospect of it – where you sit on that scale depends solely on you.

I’d say this isn’t the best time to start new things, or push through things like a conquering hero. Take the time to rest, retreat and rejuvenate – but remember it’s your journey. I’m sure there will be some who are just filled to brim with the intuitive, mystical and otherworldly type of inspiration that all this energy in Pisces can bring. It can be a powerful time to express channeled messages, embody truths, or simply connect with Spirit in powerful ways – perhaps through art, spiritual work and so on. Others may simply need to rest and sleep more.

Honor your instincts and be as kind to yourselves and others 🙂

Current Placements: Venus – 4 Pisces, Neptune-6 Pisces, Mars-14 Pisces, Chiron – 15 Pisces

Venus conjunct Neptune – 1:38 am Feb 2nd 2015 (GMT + 8) at 6 Pisces ’22
Mars conjunct Chiron – 4:05 am Feb 1st 2015 (GMT + 8) at 15 Pisces ’10

Note that the Cancer Moon will be trining these energies throughout between January 21st – Feb 2nd 2014. Emotions, subconscious impulses/conditioning, intuitive perceptions and/or communication with your mother and/or The Divine Mother archetype will be instrumental in activating the stellium’s energies.

Those with strong placements in Water signs – take heed. Those with placements between 4-16 Scorpio will experience this as as a powerful GRAND WATER TRINE. Chiron/Mars is inconjunct the North Node – those with placements near 15 Taurus will be experience a powerful Nodal Yod (deeply karmic).

Try not to get engaged in domestic/familial conflicts at this time – where possible. Those of you who reach out to the Mother Goddess, call upon her for guidance and support especially at this time.

it’s a pretty intense buildup to the Leo Full Moon due February 3rd/4th (depending on where you are in the world). The Pisces stellium will be heavily lit up this Full Moon.

Blessings,

Priestess Bairavee Balasubramaniam, PhD
www.bairaveebalasubramaniam.com

Modified Image of : Small Planet Love.png – By Matriot (Own work) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

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

GEMINI FULL MOON OPPOSES THE GREAT ATTRACTOR + CHIRON T-SQUARE + NEAR GRAND SEXTILE (WOW!!!)

Blessings to All! We’ve got two major alignments coinciding with this Full Moon, powerfully opposed to the Great Attractor! It’s going to be intense!

Six months ago, on May 28/29 2014, we seeded our intentions for manifestation during the Gemini New Moon (under the influence of a Double Yod and the Grand Cardinal Cross!). Now, we will see how our efforts have culminated in some form. Full Moons are always a time of culmination, and they brings certain issues or aspects of our lives into clear focus. This Full Moon is at 14 Gemini, occurring at 8:27 pm (Dec 6th 2014, GMT + 8).

In Gemini, the Moon seeks freedom through the Mind, making this an excellent time to release any old ways of thinking/perceiving/seeing the world that no longer serves a useful purpose. It shows the way forward (or the fact that something has conclusively ended) through impasses of thought, cognition and communication. You are encouraged to find a position of detachment (rather than disassociation or simply shutting off your emotions), wherein you can allow things/people/situations to be what they are and simply ‘go with the flow’. This isn’t an energy that typically asks you to stand and hold your ground, it encourages you to be more flexible with the way you see things and to release expectations about the way certain things ‘ought to be’. Be careful of the tendency to disown or disregard deep emotions, for your emotions are the flow of energy through which you navigate the Path. Let them flow through you and know that this too, shall pass – into a new territory, chapter or beginning. Those who feel overwhelmed – take good care of yourselves! This is an intense lunation!

Gemini also refers to one’s early childhood environment, and in particular one’s siblings. Keep an eye out if they require your assistance at this time in any way.

This Full Moon is also opposed the Great Attractor (conjunct the Sun), adding a whole new dimension of impact. The Sagittarian Sun at 14 degrees, is one that will seek adventure, expansion, and that constant projection of energy that keeps pushing and pushing your boundaries and perceptions, now emphasized by the Attractor.

[Asteroids Hermes (12 Sagittarius) and Hekate (13 Sagittarius) also conjunct the Great Attractor/Sun, emphasizing the energies of Mercury (the archetype) and the Dark Crone Goddess of the Underworld (you’ll see why later)! Ceres, the Nurturer and Mercury (the planet) are also conjunct this point at 13 and 16 Sagittarius respectively.]

The Great Attractor is “a gravity anomaly in intergalactic space within the vicinity of the Hydra-Centaurus Supercluster at the center of the Laniakea Supercluster that reveals the existence of a localized concentration of mass tens of thousands of times more massive than the Milky Way” (Wikipedia). It exerts a powerful ‘pull’ like a black hole, but lacking the event horizon that sucks things in.

In astrology it acts as a ‘Pull’ towards a system of belief, ideology, world-view, philosophy, teaching, etc. (all related with Sagittarius). In natal charts, those with planets conjunct the Great Attractor are often ‘magnets’, easily drawing in the attention of other people. The wisdom they bring and the full impact of their energetic contribution to our collective awakening cannot be explained, measured or even adequately described.

With the Sun now lighting up the Great Attractor – we are all in a place to make key choices as to how we perceive our place in the wider Cosmos and our take on the Governing Dynamics/Principles/Ideas behind it all. For some, it may feel like a powerful pull to ‘go somewhere’ (travel/adventure/etc., also associated with Sagittarius) or take a particular stance on an issue. My caution here (to you) would be to avoid being over-judgmental, or opinionated to the point of telling anyone else how to live/not live.

Paraphrasing Philip Sedgwick, (the man who first brought the Attractor to the attention of Astrologers) all truths are but a part of the Universal Hologram. Everything can be, and is, True, only if you see it as part of the Totality, or the Full Spectrum of Potential Truths. Know that your Truth is valid for You, but by no means does it have to be valid for Another. Great Teachers who can impart this information to others will bring out Great Works at this time, or arrive at key mental/intellectual/cognitive culminations that will allow them to do so.

The Gemini Moon and the Sagittarian Sun conjunct Great Attractor are also part of a T-Square involving Chiron at 13 Pisces. Both the Sun/Attractor and the Moon square Chiron, making it the apex of the alignment – where the greatest stress, tension, but equally, potential for breakthrough is. Chiron in Pisces tells us of our Soul’s greatest woundings – particularly in issues to to do with past-life karmic situations, other-worldly / transcendental experiences of Spiritual and the challenge of Looking Past the Veil and living with the Reality of the Void. Very major stuff!

Those with placements at or near 13-14 Virgo will experience this as a Grand Mutable Cross.

Finally – last but by no means least – during this time, we will also experience a Near-Grand Sextile (NGS), with a missing corner somewhere between 8-22 Aquarius. Grand Sextiles appear as a perfect ‘Star of David’ / Shadkona Yantra / Hexagram shape in astrology – with a perfect downward facing equilateral triangle intersecting with an upward facing one, both surrounded by a Hexagon. The Grand Sextile is essentially a seal of manifestation and protection – a Divine ‘thumbs up!’ if you will for whatever it is that you wish to manifest at this time. As a friend helpfully pointed out to be – it is in fact, a 3D Merkaba of Manifestation.

This alignment will be in place between 6:36 pm. Dec 6 – 5:35 am, Dec 7 2014 (GMT + 8).

Linking all this intensity together, it seems as though the lesson you learn from this Full Moon will give you a powerful tool of perception (Gemini) and/or embodiment of your Path (Sagittarius), which you can then use to manifest something that will accelerate your spiritual journey by lightyears.

The bodies involved in the Near-Grand Sextile are: Juno (16 Leo), Uranus Retrograde (12 Aries) + South Node (16 Aries), Sun / Great Attractor (14 Sagittarius) + Ceres (16 Sagittarius) + Mercury (13 Sagittarius) as part of the GREAT GODDESS FIRE TRINE (see http://wp.me/p4OUNS-bb for further info). The North Node (16 Libra) and the Moon in Gemini, along with the hypothetical point in 8-22 Aquarius make up a GRAND AIR TRINE. All these aspects are connected via sextiles, creating the near-Hexagon, with the Fire/Air Trines intersecting one another to create the central shape.

Looking at this list, we see the opportunity to manifest/address: Goddess & Soulmate Connections (Juno), Awakenings (Uranus), Karmic Decision Points (North and South Node), Issues with Giving/Receiving (+Self ) Nurture (Ceres), The use of Reason/Logic/The Mind (Mercury), Conscious Energies (Sun), Unconscious/Intuitive Energies (The Moon) – and other stuff! depending on what contacts your natal chart makes with this alignment. Despite the fact that Air/Fire is typically associated with The Masculine, KNOW – that Goddess Energies are abundantly represented in this Cosmic Alignment. This is a fantastic moment and opportunity for Multidimensional Balance and Manifestation.

When lesser-known asteroids are considered, the Grand Sextile is completed. We have Echeclus (16 Aquarius) that tells us about a choice in discernment – how do we use the energies of the mind to resolve or re-frame issues from the past. This has resonance with the way we see the future. You have the Choice as to how you Perceive your Past, and what influence you Allow it to have on Your Future.

Urania, The Muse, is at 15 Aquarius – blessing the paths you take, and the choices you make – particularly when influenced by wisdom gained through astrology/astronomy. I hope this post and whatever other astrological info you read will facilitate you in that direction.

Psyche, the Woman who Became a Goddess, is at 22 Aquarius – asking you to look at the archetypes, narratives and stories – which you tell yourself about who you are, how the world is, how it treats you, and how you live in it. Again, this is a chance for you to re-claim and re-tell your own story, manifesting it into a new reality. Be wise in your choice and use this chance to transmute that which no longer serves and begin to Live the Life your Heart, Spirit and Soul is in True Alignment With.

Persephone, at 14 Aquarius, the Queen of the Underworld – asks you to brave the Descent into the Underworld (your sub-conscious, for most of you reading this) as you seek the Truth of Your Self and your Sovereign Power. In other words, Do not Fear The Darkness Within. Sit with it, and see what comes. If you can’t handle it, seek help from a professional/ qualified facilitator. It’s a powerful time for Death and Re-birthing, in a metaphysical sense. Many of our Wounded Feminine archetypes, forcibly dragged into the Darkness Within through pain and violation, are waiting to be reclaimed as the Sovereign Queens that they are.

Orpheus, at 10 Aquarius, allows you to grieve for that which has been lost. Expressions of self through music or song would be greatly facilitated at this time. Let go of what is no longer valid, or present or resonant in your life.

Damocles, at 19 Aquarius, gives us a sense of urgency as to the Choice – that all of this energy is urging us to make at this time and a promise that your choices will have energetic consequences. Again, choose wisely. The principle of : Harm None [Including Yourself] applies here.

— so , putting it all together —

There seems to be a big breakthrough in your perception of some situation, most likely highlighted by events from the last week of May 2014. You might also see some resonance with the type of energy we’re feeling, looking back at December 6/7 1995, when we last had a Full Moon at this degree.

We’re going to have to metaphorically journey into the Underworld, so we can be Reborn Spiritually at this time. Fear not, have Faith and sit with all the parts of yourself seeking resolution at this time with a position of Heart-Centered Openness. Let it flow, and you’ll be surprised how far this journey can take you, beginning NOW.

Watch for the opportunity for ‘Breakthrough’ at this time and remember to do the Phoenix Meditation if so inclined. Rebirth is in the Air!

Blessings and Love to All,

Priestess Bairavee Balasubramaniam, PhD
www.bairaveebalasubramaniam.com