Astrologers get terribly infuriated by this ‘fake news’ especially coming from a reputable source like NASA.

Astrologers are well aware of astronomical phenomena surrounding our area of expertise – we wouldn’t be able to interpret planetary movements, ingresses, retrogrades, or eclipses without this astronomical ‘add-on’ to our skill-set.

➡️ Astrology and Astronomy used to be the same area of study once upon a time

So what are NASA talking about? And has your star-sign really changed?

For those of you freaking out that you star (sun) sign has changed and everything you thought you knew is a lie, don’t panic!

NASA are actually referring to a real thing called procession, which astrologers are well aware of.

I remember as a child being fascinated by the Tropics of Cancer and Capricorn on the globe I had in my bedroom. I suppose they captured my imagination as my Cancerian sister and I had our sun-signs printed on planet Earth! 

Why were our Zodiac signs so special that they got their own tropic line above and below the equator? I had no idea what a tropic was, perhaps if I had researched it then, I would have journeyed into astrology much sooner.

The Tropical Zodiac

So what are the tropics, and why are Cancer and Capricorn so special that they’re detailed on maps and globes while the other zodiac signs don’t get a mention?

The way it works (try to imagine it) is the four cardinal signs: Aries, Cancer, Libra, and Capricorn, form a cross over the wheel of the zodiac. Astrologers refer to these axes as the Ascendant–Descendant axis (left to right) and the Midheaven and Immum Coeli axis (top to bottom).

When the sun enters Aries and Libra (opposite each other from left to right) we have the Spring and Autumn equinox. This is the point of the year where the Earth reaches her tipping point and we notice a change in the seasons and the amount of light in the days. 

90° away from Aries and Libra are Cancer and Capricorn (opposite each other from North to South on the cross). These are the solstice points marking the spot where the Earth reaches its maximum tipping point of 23.5° before wobbling back.

So, not only does the Earth rotate on its axis once every 24 hours (creating night and day) and making a full revolution of the Sun through the celestial belt every 365 days (the solar year) – it also wobbles from side to side spending six months leaning one way, and another six months leaning the other, creating Summer and Winter. 

Spatial Awareness

The Earth’s journey through the year can be tracked following Sun’s position through the ecliptic, which is the Earth’s equatorial belt extended out into space. The ecliptic has a backdrop of constellations which we all know as the Zodiac signs. 

The equinoctial points are the halfway points between the Solstices. From a geocentric (Earth centred) perspective, these are the seasonal markers and we witness the cyclic year through changes in the seasons and changes in the amount of daylight hours. The closer to the equator you are, the less obvious this is, as fluctuations in light are less extreme throughout the year. 

The word tropical refers to the tropics which lie above and below the Earth’s equator at a latitude of 23°26′12.3″ North (Cancer) and South (Capricorn) of the equator, referring to the maximum angle that the earth tilts during the solar year.

From the Spring to the Autumn equinox, the northern hemisphere tilts toward the sun. The tropic of Cancer is a hypothetical line around the northern hemisphere, which marks the farthest point the Earth tilts south towards the equator.

When the Earth reaches this point in tilt, we experience the longest day of summer in the northern hemisphere (and the shortest day of winter in the southern hemisphere).

From the Autumn to Spring equinox, the Southern hemisphere tilts toward the sun. The tropic of Capricorn is a hypothetical line around the southern hemisphere, which marks the farthest point the Earth tilts north towards the equator.

In a nutshell, the tropical zodiac uses the Zodiac signs and pins the four cardinal points to the seasons, coinciding with the Gregorian calendar.

The Sidereal Zodiac

So now we’ve established the definition of the tropical zodiac, is it any wonder why so many people get freaked out when media outlets claim the constellations have moved and everyone’s zodiac sign is incorrect?

What the media spin-doctors are referring to is axial precession, which astrologers are very aware of! The fact is some astrologers use the sidereal zodiac which takes precession into consideration when making chart calculations.

Where the tropical zodiac is most commonly used by Western astrologers (like myself) Vedic astrology is an Eastern system using the sidereal zodiac. According to Vedic astrology, I am actually a Sagittarius, not a Capricorn!

Sidereal time is a system which astronomers use to locate celestial objects. However, this differs from the sidereal zodiac in astrology, and according to The Cynster:

“The longitudinal origin in the sidereal system is defined relative to the fixed stars. Fixed is used loosely here as some stars move. This movement isn’t immediately apparent but can be realized by tracking the position of stars over thousands of years.”

https://thecynster.home.blog/

The Sidereal Zodiac takes into consideration the precession of the equinoxes (or axial precession as astronomers refer to it). The original discovery of precession dates back to Hellenistic Greece, where Hipparchus compared the astronomical observations of his predecessors and discovered that fixed star Spica had moved 2° relative to the autumnal equinox over the space of a few hundred years.

“In astronomy, axial precession is a gravity-induced, slow, and continuous change in the orientation of an astronomical body’s rotational axis. In particular, it can refer to the gradual shift in the orientation of Earth’s axis of rotation in a cycle of approximately 25,772 years.”

Wikipedia

Over time, the equinox points and the zodiac have been travelling westward along the ecliptic with respect to the fixed stars. This means that we do not have a ‘fixed’ north star as the celestial poles appear to move in circles against the backdrop of fixed stars, completing one circuit in approximately 26,000 years.

“The apparent position of the Sun relative to the backdrop of the stars at some seasonally fixed time slowly regresses a full 360° through all twelve traditional constellations of the zodiac, at the rate of about 50.3 seconds of arc per year, or 1 degree every 71.6 years.

At present, the rate of precession corresponds to a period of 25,772 years, but the rate itself varies somewhat with time…so one cannot say that in exactly 25,772 years the earth’s axis will be back to where it is now.”

Wikipedia

So Which System Is Correct?

There are many big debates over the superiority of each system – I am not trying to resolve that conflict. In the same way we can look at the different house systems and how they work when interpreting the natal chart, both zodiacs are worth investigating to satisfy your own curiosity.

The main difference is that the sidereal zodiac uses the constellations and the tropical zodiac uses the zodiac signs.

However, it is worth acknowledging this statement (which was initially written about the different house systems) when embarking on your journey of zodiacal discovery:

“There is no definitive way to read a chart. With a good vocabulary and technique, all roads can lead to Rome.”

Frank C Clifford

➡️ Read Five Classic Reactions When I Tell People I’m An Astrologer

➡️ Read The Best Astrology Books for Beginners in 2020

➡️ Learn Astrology with The Stellium Astrology Podcast

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Marijuana has been used as an alternative to modern conventional medicine for years; its effective use as a pain killer has many referring to it as a miracle drug. But there are people out there staunchly opposed to the use of illicit drugs to alleviate symptoms of suffering – from those who unquestionably follow the law to those with religious beliefs and preconceived ideas; social conditioning also plays an enormous part in this taboo area.

Seizure Control

I felt compelled to address this subject after seeing the moving story on BBC news on the 17th of June about a mother, Charlotte Caldwell, who took the law into her own hands and flew her 12-year-old son abroad to receive treatment for his severe and debilitating epilepsy. Billy Caldwell “used to suffer up to 100 seizures per day, but has now not had a single seizure for 300 days” according to Ms Caldwell, who also said the cannabis oil has improved Billy’s autism, evidencing the fact he has been better at making eye contact and showing more engagement with his books and toys – after receiving treatment with cannabis oil.

On her return to the UK on the 11th June, Tory policing minister Nick Hurd ordered the confiscation of medicinal cannabis oil from Charlotte Caldwell at Heathrow Airport. His actions forced Billy Caldwell’s treatment to be stopped cold-turkey with no opportunity to slowly wean him off the drug – a method which is recommended by medical professionals for long-term prescribing treatments.

Charlotte stated that her son would surely die if he wasn’t allowed to take the medication and that “If Billy dies, which is looking increasingly possible, then the Home Office, and (minister) Nick Hurd, will be held completely accountable”.

An Astrological Perspective

On the evening of the 15th of June, Billy Caldwell was back in hospital as a medical emergency, forcing Home Office Minister Nick Hurd to perform a complete 180° turn on his previous decision to withhold the medication.

I cast a sunrise chart for the 15th June 2018 in London to see what was happening. This is the day Billy Caldwell was admitted to Hospital – Initially to Paddington Hospital and then in the evening to Chelsea and Westminster Hospital – where he was said to be in a “life-threatening condition”.

The chart of the day shows Neptune in Pisces, Jupiter in Scorpio and the Moon in Cancer completing a Grand Trine between the three watery planets.

The Sun at the moment it rose that day, at 24° Gemini – the discovery degree of Uranus – highlights the nervous system and neurological disorders which Gemini rules. Epilepsy falls into this category. As a result of this, the 15th of June has an added Uranian flavour making it a powerful day for change, sudden reversals, and awareness of alternative perspectives.

Uranus in Taurus

Uranus ingressed Taurus back in May 2018 and has already presented itself in a variety of interesting and revolutionary ways. In this case, sitting at the first degree of Taurus (the sign ruling nature, the body, and the physical environment), Uranus raises our awareness of issues affected by this area of life. A plant which can heal debilitating mental and physical disorders is thrust into the spotlight and the mass media reports a story which could revolutionise drug laws in the UK. Trined by Saturn retrograde in Capricorn, as well as squared by Venus in Leo, Uranus calls for the laws and traditions of the UK to be reconsidered under compassionate review.

Jupiter in Scorpio has presented an issue considered to be a taboo to many, forcing us to broaden our perspective on the issue and consider the bigger picture as far as the use of medicinal marijuana is concerned. In the 5th house, Jupiter has highlighted the issue through a vulnerable young child whose life has been transformed by the “illicit” substance.

Bending the Law

Neptune in Pisces in the 9th house has called for a law to be ‘bent’ in order to make a special exception for Billy Caldwell, whose situation has challenged the perspectives of politicians and law enforcers alike. Politics and Law are directly associated with the 9th house and Pisces is the sign of redemption and compassion. In association with Jupiter in Scorpio in the 5th house, the precarious condition of this child’s life has given us all a very extreme case to consider; the benefits of loosening laws and granting alternative options to those who haven’t had success with prescribed, legal medication.

The Moon in Cancer feeds into this in a special way – not only is it completing a Grand Trine in the caring and compassionate water signs, but will have also passed the degree that Pluto was discovered (17° Cancer), giving extra transformational power to this potent degree of the zodiac plus echoing Jupiter’s position of power, currently disposited by Pluto.

Saturn, Mercury, and Chiron have formed a potent t-square with Saturn in Capricorn wishing to preserve tradition, the definitive word of the Law and the word “no” as far as questions are concerned. However, Saturn’s retrograde motion indicates an element of reconsideration. Mercury in opposition to Saturn is about having ideas challenged by a life-threatening situation. This is also the old man vs the young man. In Cancer, the care and welfare of a child are called into question, as is the need to review the serious issues that surround the reasoning behind a decision to deny potentially life-saving medication.

The Wounded Healer

The Apex of the t-square is Chiron in Aries, the wounded healer in the sign of the warrior and ruler of the top of the head and brain. The potential of healing here comes by breathing new life into a situation which requires fresh review; the pain caused by this neurological disorder could pioneer a new treatment method through the suffering of this young boy. Billy Caldwell has become a symbol of hope for everyone suffering from chronic and debilitating illnesses.

The outcome of the situation could have been very different had Nick Hurd said no and decided to stick to the letter of the Law. He could have found himself in a very serious – and potentially indefensible – situation if a helpless young child had died as a result of a policy he enforced. However, in a break-through for alternative medicine and medicinal marijuana use, the Right Honourable Nick Hurd chose to backtrack against his previous stance – prohibiting the use of medical marijuana by Law – in order to do what was right, and to allow the use of the only medication capable of alleviating the life-threatening seizures which have controlled every aspect of Billy Caldwell’s life since birth.

With a child’s life on the line, Hurd’s actions were being viewed as inhumane and callous by many who understand the need for the UK’s current, archaic drug laws to be reviewed in cases such as these.

Human Rights

There were also questions over the legal implications of Hurd’s actions, particularly when considering that his decision may have been in breach of Human Rights Article 2: Right to Life – being enforced under the instruction of Mr. Hurd.

Nick Hurd was born on 13th May 1962, in London. There is no birth time so I cast a noon chart for him.

Interestingly, he has Jupiter in Pisces and Neptune in Scorpio (the reversal of their current positions by transit). Accompanied by the Moon in Cancer on the day Billy Caldwell was admitted to hospital, this Grand Trine has played directly into his personal experience.

In this instance, the Moon in Cancer can be seen directly in a mother’s call to action for urgent and immediate care (necessitating the bending of a harsh, antiquated law which required immediate review).

With the transiting Moon passing his North Node in Leo and opposing Saturn in Aquarius, Mr Hurd’s decision to allow Billy Caldwell to receive this illegal treatment created an historic precedent. Billy Caldwell isn’t the only person who could benefit from this type of treatment and those suffering from chronic and debilitating illnesses may be able to resort to this alternative medicine in the future.

Groundbreaking Decision

With Mercury in Gemini making trine/sextile to the nodes, this will have been a decision which challenged Nick Hurd’s comfort zone in favour of a situation which will change the course of history forever. Regardless of the current law, the flexibility that has been utilised in order to implement this decision is groundbreaking and has already set a precedent for the use of medicinal marijuana. The law will have to be reviewed and as a Taurus, flexibility is likely not going to be the easiest stance for Nick Hurd to take – though with the help of Uranus in his sign, this may come a little easier than before.

Having just had his nodal return, and the total Lunar eclipse on 27th July at 04°44′ Aquarius, an acceleration of change to his fixed views and loyalty to the law is being presented through challenging situations. Mars retrograde is also highlighting the need to assess the use of pioneering treatments and with Mercury retrograde recently moving over these points, there is a lot of friction requiring his fixed position to be reconsidered.

Let’s face it, Nick Hurd really is the man who can make a difference in this case and his staunch attitude towards the the enforcement of drug laws have been challenged by a genuine case where his decision could leave him accountable for the death of an innocent young boy. You can understand his position in this situation, but with many countries legalising cannabis (both for medical and recreational use) the concern over keeping this drug totally illegal in any form throughout the UK really should not be emphasized as strongly as it still is.

However, as well as being seen as a politically sensible decision – for his own self-interest in not publicly denying a child life-saving medication – you may also look to see if the decision had a more human basis (owing to the fact that Mr Hurd himself is a father of 6).

One Small Step For Man

In recent years, the world has been waking up to the unnecessarily tight regulations on the substance. As I write, 29 states in the US have some kind of legalisation program and Canada legalised marijuana for medicinal use in 2001. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada is making the necessary adjustments to have all use (including recreational) of marijuana legalised – a policy promise which helped get him elected to office on 19 October 2015.  

The thing that strikes me most about this story isn’t that this is a one-off. It isn’t a little event which doesn’t mean anything. Clinicians have confirmed that it was dangerous to take Billy Caldwell off of the medicine he had been using, and that since commencing treatment he had gone nearly a year without a seizure – showing the drug’s clear effectiveness in helping to control his symptoms.

This is a medical breakthrough and the government have to acknowledge the power of this natural drug in alleviating and controlling the debilitating effects of many illnesses and medical conditions – regardless of whether or not they chose to legalise it.

With the promising steps being made during the Uranus–Saturn Trine plus the Jupiter–Neptune trine, new attitudes can be formed from the archaic attitudes of yesterday and we can put our faith in the healing and medicinal properties of nature, once again.

The post Medicinal Marijuana and Billy Caldwell first appeared on Stellium Astrology.

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Aries is naturally spontaneous and impulsive, diving in head first and getting things done very quickly, whereas Capricorn likes to take her time and can be painstaking about the process. The planets from Capricorn are asking Mercury in Aries to slow down and channel his energy into the refining process, even if that means taking the longer route. Both signs care about perfection – Aries in his goal of first place and Capricorn in her goal of mastery. 

Mercury Retrograde in Aries

Offers us:

• An opportunity to slow down and refine our thought process
• The stamina required to establish long-term plans
• A chance to make changes to outdated/exploitative/unfair situations
• Diplomacy and rationale during an otherwise volatile period
• The opportunity to prioritise what we truly value

Watch for:

• Making rushed decisions which you may later regret
• Feeling penned in with no-where to run
• Being held accountable over moments of impaired judgement
• Feeling frustrated or bullied
• Being between a rock and a hard place

The first Mercury Retrograde of 2018 occurs just a few days after the Sun passes through the Equinoctial point of spring. Mercury is at 16° Aries at the heart of cardinal fire. Here is the place where Mercury loves to instigate, come up with new ideas and envisage himself as courageous and victorious. Very independent in mind-set, brash and direct in communication style, Mercury in Aries enjoys a bit of healthy competition, and revels in heated debate.

Both Mars and Saturn (the ‘malefic’ planets) are instrumental during Mercury’s retrograde through Aries, by square. This wouldn’t normally be considered a good thing. However, Mars functions highly in Capricorn and doesn’t expend his energy unless he absolutely has to. He is far more strategic and thinks about the consequences of his actions. Saturn is currently in Capricorn (the sign that he rules) so is in the comfort of his own home and able to settle into his role as stoic and respectable authority of his castle. What I am saying is that these planets are functioning in an unusually pure and competent way so their interplay during this transit will be as fair and just as the context allows.

There is an ease of dialogue as the Moon in Gemini makes a harmonious aspect to Mercury on the 23rd March. As he stations (an optical illusion where Mercury appears to slow down to a stand-still and then move backwards), Mercury asks us to be more deliberate, pay attention to our thought process and consider who we are communicating with. With Neptune creating friction here, the truth may not be what it seems and clarity of thought may be clouded. Mercury is second-guessing himself, re-thinking his actions and rearranging his priorities.

Taming the Tempestuous

There is a high-energy planetary combination on the 25th and 26th of March which can manifest in great will power and determination. Initially, intuition may feel tested any recent decisions made will be scrutinised. Seeking impartial advice may be able to help you move forward – This could be a friend or a professional.

Energy levels at this time are tangible but obstacles will prevent you from utilising this energy until you can balance the issue causing this blockage. Once you have made your decision and formed a plan, you will get a feel for how authentic this current pathway is for you; your emotional compass will tell you whether it’s right. Ultimately you will need to prioritise what is most important to you. It may be that the decision to be made is in the hands of others and in that case, you will be at the mercy of others. Be reassured that this particular planetary combination is firm but fair. 

As Venus moves ahead of Mercury and towards Uranus, there is a sense she is a little unpredictable, independent and wishing to free herself from any commitments – a bit of a live-wire! As a woman, she values her independence, freedom and has a strong sense of herself. Perhaps this is why traditional astrology considers Venus in detriment (in a poor position) in Aries – this kind of woman would have gone against the grain of conventional gender roles, when the traditional astrological texts were written. Being independent and outspoken isn’t considered detrimental for a woman by today’s standards. There is a requirement for change, equality and perhaps a sudden realisation. There is even a chance that Venus may find herself in a sudden romantic clinch with a friend, or suddenly severing romantic ties in a break for freedom! I urge Venus to be sure of what she really wants.

The Full Moon in Libra on the 31st March is complimented by the ingress of Venus to Taurus. With previous conversations about fairness and redressing balance being pulled back into the spotlight to review progress, issues of responsibility will be called into question and it would seem that the need to create equal footing will be taken seriously. If needs aren’t addressed this could be the breaking point. Once Venus crosses the threshold to Taurus, she will be in a sign she rules giving her added strength and power. Considerate, objective and reliable at best and manipulative, stubborn and self-indulgent at worst; Venus in Taurus opens up an easy channel of communication to Mars and Saturn in Capricorn. Softening the hard and sharp edges of the malefic planets she brings the opportunity to get tangible results and any decisions made and implemented now will have a sense of permanency and long-term potential.

The Wings of Icarus

Mercury the fool has been under the Sun’s beams for some time now and on the 1st of April (Fool’s day) he will enter the heart of the Sun. This is when thoughts that may have been unclear (or perhaps you weren’t being totally honest with yourself) will clarify. One side of the argument will resonate more than the other and you will be able to chose a side rather than being on the fence about an issue.

This is the truly alchemical moment of the whole process as Mercury is in the solar forge as purified molten quicksilver. Able to understand his surroundings, this is where Mercury learns about his true self, his identity and true desires. In my mind’s eye, I can’t help but see Icarus flying too close to the sun with the wax melting off his wings – there’s only one way this is going. Mercury will not be able to escape the honesty of the moment and this is a truth-speaking moment of magnitude.

Often feeling powerless or oppressed can be particularly tough, and when times are hard, the clock ticks slowly. But the Mars-Saturn conjunction on April 2nd will grant the perfect opportunity to look at your previous actions, take ownership and admit your flaws. If it’s an issue of taking responsibility for something or getting angry about an impossible situation, pent up energy will have nowhere to go and controlling your urges will override the desire to be spontaneous. Stress and frustration is likely. With the Moon Scorpio approaching Jupiter there certainly isn’t a light a fluffy feel to the day. It’s penetrating, deep and yearning for meaning.

Make the most of this planetary combination; a powerhouse of dynamic stamina, consistent and able to drive you forward. Future plans may be changed, amended; perhaps the breaks have been put on in order to change direction. This planetary combination can be likened to blacksmithing; heating metal, moulding and quenching. It takes time, is specialised and requires focus, caution and dedication. Actions for improvement taken under this planetary combination have longevity by creating a focal point for the manifesting qualities of Saturn to build on.

Heated words – albeit diffused – may find an outlet on the 4th of April. It is advisable to be wary of sudden foot-in-mouth syndrome, with the Moon in Sagittarius allowing Mercury to express himself freely. Confidences may be shared which is fine among friends, but it is advisable to keep your thoughts in check if you haven’t checked out your confidante. Make sure you don’t share too much, you might reveal more than you bargain for.

Having said that a problem shared is a problem halved, and carrying a burden can be lifted if you find the right outlet. By the time the Moon is in Aquarius on the 9th of April, you will be able to rationalise the process you have been through and apply logic. It’s fine to feel and work through the emotional side of the issue, but it’s good in equal measure to step back and analyse the situation, as Mercury slows his course, stations and enters direct motion once again over the next few days.

Mercury retrograde in Aries is a chance to be honest and authentic, walking the path you have chosen for yourself should you have the bravery to pursue it. You will earn the respect of others when you take ownership for your actions and leading by example will inspire change in others. However, this doesn’t promise to be a completely pain-free process and self-realisation may be the most difficult part of the journey. Ultimately this is a test of self-respect and stamina, we have a choice to resist or comply. How we handle ourselves during this time is the true test of the situation.

Key Dates for Mercury Retrograde

Mercury Rx 24th March to 15th April – 16°54’ Aries to 4°47’ Aries 

March

• 23rd – Mercury stations retrograde
• 24th – Mercury enters retrograde motion
• 25th – Mercury Square Moon in Cancer, Moon opposite Saturn, Sun square Mars
• 27th – Mercury Trine Moon in Leo
• 31st – Full Blue Moon in Libra 11:37 UT at 10°45’ Libra PLUS Venus in Taurus

April

• 02nd – Mercury Cazimi – The Heart of the Sun 17:49 UT
• 04th – Jupiter sesquiquadrate Mercury PLUS Mercury Square Mars
• 09th – Moon Aquarius sextile Mercury
• 14th – Mercury stations direct
• 15th – Mercury enters direct motion

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Quantum leap to current day: The Information Age, where Science is pioneering technological advances in medical research, space exploration and recreating ‘the God particle’ miles under the surface of the Earth.  

We have reached the point of Ouroboros; the boundaries between science-fact and science-fiction are increasingly hard to differentiate and spiritual concepts are explicable using the linguistic cloak of academia. 

Astrologers find themselves ostracised from intellectual and academic circles based on the non-scientific nature of the subject they study.  This article aims to explore Astrology’s place in science, history and religion.

Why has Astrology been widely discredited by today’s intelligentsia and what steps have been taken to draw credibility to the subject?

Astrology’s presence throughout history can be found in the cave art and megalithic sites of our ancestors, the many holy books and spoken traditions across the globe, the architectural design of buildings and cathedrals and the symbolism adorning the palaces and ceremonies of the monarchic classes.  

The earliest records of Astrology can be traced back to ancient Babylon, predating modern Science and the Abrahamic religions.  Interestingly, Judaism stakes a claim to the creation of Astrology.

Flavius Josephus states in his book ‘The Antiquities of the Jews’ that the children of Seth (the son of Adam) “were the inventors of that peculiar sort of wisdom which is concerned with the heavenly bodies and their order”⁽¹⁾. Abraham wrestled with the idea that the irregular motions of the planets “contribute to the happiness of man”⁽²⁾ suggesting that Abraham was an astrologer.

Religion & History

However, many religious institutions consider Astrology to be not only an abomination, but a form of demonic worship.  Astrologers are not spoken of fondly in the Old Testament of the King James V Bible, as stated in Isaiah 47:13-14:

‘”Let now the astrologers, those who prophesy by the stars, those who predict by the new moons, Stand up and save you from what will come upon you.  Behold, they have become like stubble, Fire burns them; they cannot deliver themselves from the power of the flame; There will be no coal to warm by nor a fire to sit before”  

Isaiah 47:13-14

In the book of Leviticus 19:26 it states “Ye shall not eat [anything] with the blood: neither shall ye use enchantment, nor observe times”. There are many references in the bible which point toward the study of celestial bodies as a way to recognise prophetic signs. “And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars”.

In Luke 21:25, “God said, Let there be lights in the firmament of the heaven to divide the day from the night; and let them be for signs, and for seasons, and for days, and years”.  

Though the evidence of Astrology’s presence cannot be denied, it has remained a controversial subject which has lead to the condemnation of those that practice it.

Astrology’s Secret Regal Status & Heliocentrism

Rather hypocritically, the ‘divine right-theory of kingship’ appoints the monarchy on God’s will, yet it is documented throughout the ages that the royal elites sought the guidance of mystics, seers and astrologers.

The Copernican Revolution was responsible for the paradigm shift leading to the demotion of Astrology. From its status as a respected academic subject it plummeted to the depths of a theoretically-flawed and ridiculed pseudo-science.  

The acceptance of Heliocentrism as rational scientific theory during the late Renaissance period superseded the Ptolemaic model of the Solar System.

Its acceptance was widely revered and accepted among academic and intellectual circles, in addition to the monarchic and ruling class.  At the time, King Louis XIV of France willingly adopted the notion that a Sun-centered solar system, symbolically “representing a Monarchy centered society as a cosmically sanctioned position at the heart of society”⁽³⁾. 

The first publication which documented Astronomy as a separate entity from Astrology which triggered its academic decline was started in the 1679 yearly publication of ‘La Connoissance des temps’⁽⁴⁾.  

Prior to that, Astrology was considered a highly regarded and pertinent area of study In the 12th and 13th centuries. Ancient studies of Astrology were translated from Arabic to Latin and was used as part of medical practice in Europe.  

By the late 1500’s it was required by law to calculate the position of the moon before carrying out complicated medical procedures⁽⁵⁾.

Science & Atheism

It could be argued that the mainstream media has played a hand in trivialising Astrology with many sceptics basing their arguments around the subject’s most commonly recognised form: sun sign columns.

This type of Astrology is something I refer to as ‘the gateway drug of Astrology’, making the subject accessible. However, this rather superficial version of the craft leaves it open to criticism.  

One sceptic in particular, Andrew Fraknoi is an Astronomy Professor and self-appointed ‘debunker’ of Astrology. Fraknoi has devised an ‘Astrology Defense Kit’ posed as ten embarrassing questions alongside a parody of Astrology called ‘Jetology’⁽⁶⁾ where the amount of Aeroplanes flying over a particular part of the planet would impact the lives of individuals living below.

Though this may be a little lighthearted fun (perhaps not so lighthearted coming from Fraknoi), it serves to demonstrate the lack of tolerance and understanding of the complexities of Astrology, presented by scientists today.

Criminal

The endorsement of religion or pseudoscience is not something popular scientists associate themselves with today. The Evolutionary Biologist and dogmatic Atheist Richard Dawkins is well known for his strong opinions with regard to creationism and intelligent design.

In 1995 Dawkins argued:

“Astrology is neither harmless nor fun, and we should fight it seriously as an enemy of truth.  Why are Astrologers not prosecuted for false representation and driven out of business?  Why are professional astrologers not jailed for fraud?” ⁽⁷⁾

Richard Dawkins FRS FRSL

Dawkins’ words have a large impact among fans of his work and his opinion is shared by many academics and intellectuals.

However, Hitchens’ Razor “What can be asserted without evidence can be dismissed without evidence”⁽⁸⁾ could be applied both in support of Dawkins’ belief system and also to strengthen the opposing implications of this statement.

Scientific Philosophy

There are a number of ways that Astrology’s credibility could be improved in modern science, with a few cases of scientific research being carried out by scientists wishing to find a conclusive answer as to the Science Vs Astrology debate.  

Dr Percey Seymour PhD, was inspired to investigate the effects of the planets raising tides in the gases of the Sun, creating sunspots and their particle emissions, which then travel across space to strike Earth’s magnetosphere.  

Having met criticism from the scientific community, Seymour claims

“those who use simplistic models to disprove astrology are violating the principles of the philosophy of science, which is a particular interest of mine”⁽⁹⁾

Dr Percy Seymour PhD, Astronomer

Seymour’s work draws largely on the scientific research carried out by Michel and Francois Gauquelin.  Their research into what was later called ’the Mars Effect’ found a positive correlation between angular planets (particularly diurnal ones) and the influence that planet would have on that person’s profession.

The Gauquelin’s work was the largest Astrological research project of its kind has provided scientific evidence that there is a correlation between planets at their most powerful points – within orb of the Ascendant and Midheaven axis (the ‘Gauquelin Zone’) – and the strength of influence that planetary placement has on the psychology and life experience of the individual.

Walking The Path Less Travelled

Serious scientific research, particularly in the area of Astrology, will be met with criticism from the scientific community and in the case of Dr Percy Seymour, rejection is a likely consequence.  

“Of course, I expected people to take objection to my theory. But I didn’t expect the reaction to be so vehement or so irrational”⁽¹⁰⁾  

Dr Percy Seymour PhD, Astronomer

Often this is the way with progressive attitudes in scientific discovery.  The Gauquelin’s also faced immense criticism based on the selection methods of their results. Many of the great scientific breakthroughs throughout history faced the same issues including Nicholas Copernicus’ theory of a Sun-centered solar system.

In Conclusion

Man’s relationship with the heavens is evident throughout history.  The popularity of Atheism compliments the material function of scientific and fact-driven process underpinning modern intellectual and academic thought.

Astrology is an art which serves as a mechanism for one to enter a direct dialogue with their higher expression of consciousness. It is a way to analyze, interpret and understand events, enabling the individual to empower themselves through challenging times autonomously, rather than communicating via middleman to gain holistic completion.

Astrologers should continue to preserve the traditions which have existed longer than the scientific methodologies and religious institutions attempting to discredit its validity; lack of scientific research against astrology serves to prove the flaws in the opposing argument. Astrological research is important; reporting findings keep this historical and well documented discipline alive where religion, science and atheism continue to dismiss it’s relevance.

References

1. Josephus, F. (2013) The Antiquities of the Jews [Online] First Start Publishing Ebook edition. United States of America.  Start Publishing LLP.  Available from – https://books.google.co.uk/books?id=Pt5EAwAAQBAJ&printsec=frontcover&dq=were+the+inventors+of+that+peculiar+sort+of+wisdom+which+is+concerned+with+the+heavenly+bodies+and+their+order&hl=en&sa=X&ei=I0QPVaqoJcjiaNWRgIAD&ved=0CCAQ6AEwAA#v=onepage&q&f=false.
2. Josephus, F. (2013) The Antiquities of the Jews [Online] First Start Publishing Ebook edition. United States of America.  Start Publishing LLP.  Available from – https://books.google.co.uk/books?id=Pt5EAwAAQBAJ&printsec=frontcover&dq=were+the+inventors+of+that+peculiar+sort+of+wisdom+which+is+concerned+with+the+heavenly+bodies+and+their+order&hl=en&sa=X&ei=I0QPVaqoJcjiaNWRgIAD&ved=0CCAQ6AEwAA#v=onepage&q&f=false.
3. Campion, N. (2011) A History of Western Astrology Volume 2 p. 95-142.
4. Wikipedia Available at: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Astrology_and_science (Accessed: 15 March 2015)
5. The British Library/Dr Alixe Bovey Available at: http://www.bl.uk/learning/histcitizen/medieval/medicine/medievalmedicine.html (Accessed: 15 March 2015).
6. Fraknoi, A. (2001) Available at: http://www.astrosociety.org/astrology.pdf (Accessed: 13 March 2015).
7. Dawkins, R. (1995) ‘The Real Romance in the Stars’ The Independent Available at: http://www.independent.co.uk/voices/the-real-romance-in-the-stars-1527970.html
8. ‘Hitchens Razor’ http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hitchens%27s_razor.  Available at: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hitchens%27s_razor
9. Bronwyn Elko (1998) The Magus of Magnetism:  An Interview With Dr. Percy Seymour.  http://tmgnow.com/repository/solar/percyseymour1.html
10. Bronwyn Elko (1998) The Magus of Magnetism:  An Interview With Dr. Percy Seymour.  http://tmgnow.com/repository/solar/percyseymour1.html

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The post Worlds in Collision | Why Do Science & Religion Hate Astrology? appeared first on Stellium Astrology.

The benefit of creating a New Moon Wish List is being able to keep track of your progress from month to month for as long as you keep creating wish lists. If you are someone who regularly writes journals as I do, you will have no problem integrating this practice into your routine.

However, If you find yourself a little forgetful and in need of a reminder to create your list, you can use your phone to set a reminder and even make and keep the list stored on there, too. It can be saved in your online diaries like iCal, which can be accessed via your smartphone, or on a laptop/PC, keeping them stored for easy reference.

I’ve scribbled my New Moon Wish Lists on Post-Its, used envelopes, random notebooks and on the appropriate page of my diary – it does help to have everything written in the same location but there is no hard-and-fast rule.

Ideally, your wishes will be personal and you can ask for things like an organised sock drawer (did I really just suggest that?) or more focus at work. You could ask for world peace, or perhaps an end to cruelty in humanity, though the wish lists aren’t really designed for collective wishes.

However, if your chart is being picked up by an outer planet transit or you are an Outer Planet Person (OPP) natally, by all means these intentions have a right to be expressed through your wish list.

It’s fun to look back over your wish lists and see how far you have come. You will find that so many of your goals and wishes have come true in some way or another and the things that haven’t, didn’t for a very good reason. It’s a great tool for putting things into perspective and can be compared to the New Moon chart to see how things panned out and what the astrological explanation may be for the results you received.

Below is a New Moon Wishlist I made previously to give you all an idea of the type of things I decided to wish for. Make a list of up to, but not exceeding 14 things (in my example – I have listed 13) that you would like to encourage from yourself or invite into your experience within the next few weeks (up to the Full Moon). Make sure you have the list completed before the New Moon reaches perfection (at the exact degree and minute of arc).

My New Moon Wish List for 23rd October 2014: Moon at 0° Scorpio

1. Canterbury Uni Application Sorted
2. Get a job in Davidson School
3. Get tablecloths made
4. Finish article and submit it!
5. Read about self-employment
6. Continue progress with the website
7. Make real progress with NLP
8. Look into ADHD & how to manage it
9. Improve concentration
10. Motivate myself
11. Improve Study Skills
12. Tidy Bedroom/Organise
13. Give self Reiki! Self-heal.

The Outcome of My New Moon Wish List

1. I completed my Canterbury Application and got accepted on the course. I eventually decided not to attend but my confidence was boosted by the whole experience.
2. I didn’t get the job at Davidson School. With hindsight, I’m glad this didn’t happen because I got another job which I really loved and was far more suited to.
3. I made the tablecloths and they looked fab! (See below)
4. I completed my article and submitted it for editing prior to publication.
5. I am now self-employed.
6. I have continued to develop my website – you are all witness to the hard work I have put in.
7. MY NLP sessions were very successful – I still use the techniques every day and couldn’t recommend it highly enough.
8. I read up and studied ADD and have mine under as much control as possible, without having to take medication for it.
9. My concentration improved with the help of MorEPA (Omega 3 with a high EPA content for concentration issues associated with ADHD).
10. I have become increasingly more motivated, and enjoy setting and achieving goals, like regular blog posts.
11. My study skills improved by learning about mind mapping, and other methods I hadn’t previously used.
12. I no longer live in my parents house in my little bedroom, but I keep my living quarters as clean and tidy as I can now. A clear and cleanly environment brings me joy and keeps me sane (OCD – Moi? More like Virgo on the 4th house cusp!)
13. I am now a Reiki Master – I give myself and others Reiki every day and use it wherever I go.

The feeling you get from looking back on an event with hindsight and realising there was a better way to do something can be quite a regretful thing, but with a New Moon Wish List, you look back with hindsight and actually have perspective about the wishes and intentions you made. It fills you with a sense of satisfaction and trust that everything is as it should be.

What I find most exciting about writing this post now is looking back on this list and realising this New Moon was a partial eclipse on a power degree (0° Scorpio). Sandwiched between Pluto and Saturn in my natal chart, it was the start of a Moon Family – something I touched on in my first blog post where I discuss Dietrech Pessins‘ Lunar Gestation Cycles.

So there you have it! I’ve opened my heart and my diaries to you all, to demonstrate the benefits of keeping a New Moon Wish List – not just to synchronise with the ebbs and flows of the Moon and her moods, but also to remind us how capable and brilliant we can be once we channel our true intentions into our will.

The post Creating a New Moon Wish List first appeared on Stellium Astrology.

The post Creating a New Moon Wish List appeared first on Stellium Astrology.

Eagerly flicking straight to January, I was particularly excited to find that the date I’d booked my spa visit was the day after the New Moon in Capricorn when Luna herself will sextile Venus – a perfect opportunity for me to recharge my batteries and enjoy some real ‘me’ time! Intuitively I must have chosen January 11^th for that exact reason, but it is always nice to see it echoed back from the stars.

Healing is a personal thing, and our individual lunar placement tells us the specific type of care we need to receive, and when it is best for us to receive it. Observing the daily motions of the transiting moon is a useful way to engage in a personal dialogue with your unconscious self and get in tune with your needs and true intentions of the moment.  Luna is a key player when electing the most effective times to undergo health and beauty routines, for example: When is the best time to wax your legs in order to encourage slower regrowth? When to cut your hair to ensure fuller, faster re-growth? Which phase of the moon encourages a safe detox and cleanse? Astrology can also be used to elect the most appropriate times to escape on holiday or to a spa, when a bath will be more effective than a massage, or when going out and letting your hair down is just what the doctor ordered.

Kimberly has worked painstakingly on this classy, loose leaf calendar to bring us optimum dates in 2016 for beautifying and indulging ourselves. With a stunning gold design embossed on the cover, the calendar exudes quality and style. With a couple of info pages for the budding Astrologer to learn about aspects discussed in the calendar and a card to write your own chart details, there is also a space on the calendar to make your own notes, make new moon intentions and observations – perfect for anyone that keeps a new moon wish list each month.

I have a handful of copies to give away for 5 lucky readers! To claim your Lunar Beauty ~ Astrological Calendar, ‘Like’ my Facebook page and fill out the contact form on this page with your full name, time (if you have it), place and date of birth and tell me how you like to relax and recharge. I will draw 5 names on Wednesday 16^th December.

These stunning calendars make the perfect gift for Christmas and the New Year and are available from Star Sign Style, Etsy and The Astrology Shop in Covent Garden, for the bargain price of $15 (£10) including p&p.

*Give Away Closed*

The post Lunar Beauty – Astrological Calendar Give Away first appeared on Stellium Astrology.

The post Lunar Beauty – Astrological Calendar Give Away appeared first on Stellium Astrology.

I just wanted to write a blog to spread the word on this excellent free tool for Astrologers.  The idea for this post came to me after I taught a few Astrology classes to absolute beginners and realised it would be helpful to have a ‘how to’ guide for setting up an account with Astro Deinst aka http://www.astro.com.

As a budding Astrologer with limited funds, I initially created an account with Astro Dienst so I could look at my chart and start to unpick it. 

It was the first birth chart generator I used before I could afford software and I found the website extremely useful when starting out reading charts for family and friends.

Before I knew it I had a large selection of charts stored to my account for my own research purposes, with an extensive library of information all in one place.

Astro Dienst is unbeatable for its encyclopedic quantity of astrological information and data available and the most incredible thing about this website is that it is COMPLETELY FREE to sign up, with the capacity to store 100 charts with a free account, or up to 1000 if you decide to subscribe – an absolute steal at 8 Euros per year!

With options to cast natal, synastry and composite charts, there is also the option to view transits, progressions, directions, asteroids, fixed stars, Astro*Carto*Graphy, astro mapping, and so much more – there really is something for everyone.

In addition to this, there is the 9000 year Ephemeris available to download, special body ephemeris files for comets and asteroids, Astro Wiki, a free encyclopedia of Astrology, and Astro Databank – the most trusted compendium of astrological chart data available on the internet.

How to create an account with http://www.astro.com:

In a Nutshell

1. Log in
2. Create a Profile
3. Enter your details
4. Add New Astro Data
5. Select Desired Chart
6. Extended Chart Selection
7. Click here to show the chart

Step-By-Step

Log In

To create an account, go to the top right of the screen and select the Login button.

Create a Profile

Select ‘Create a free registered user profile’ (Highlighted in red)

Enter Your Details

Enter your details in the form on the following screen and select ‘OK’ (You will be prompted to do this twice)

Add New Astro Data

Input the birth chart details into the required fields and then press continue.
I really like the way you’re teased with the Sun, Moon and Ascendant quick glimpse in the top right corner, before you are directed to the generated chart.

Creating my http://www.astro.com account was the first time I found out what my Moon and Ascendant were, prompting the beginning of my astrological journey!

Select Desired Chart

Select the chart you want on the ‘Stored Astro Data’ list at the bottom of the page (highlighted in red).

This is where the list of charts you collect over time, will appear.  You can edit any of the details by selecting ‘Edit’ to the right of the horoscope data you are selecting.

Extended Chart Selection

You will be redirected to the ‘Home’ screen where you can select ‘Extended Chart Selection’ at the bottom of the page.

At this point you can select any other of the options available to view respective to the chart you currently have selected.

In the Extended Chart Selection screen you can make any final adjustments.  Once complete, click on the button that says ‘Click here to show chart’.

Please select the type of chart you want
Here you can select a Natal Chart Wheel, Synastry, or Composite Charts.

Reset 
removes all modified settings and replaces them with the website’s default settings.

Start date for charts marks with *
This allows you to input the date you would like to view the planets as transits and displays them around the outer part of the wheel in green.

House System allows you to experiment with different house systems (The default house system is Placidus) from the drop-down menu.

Additional Objects
You can select anything else you would like to be displayed on the wheel from the box at the bottom of the screen. To select more than one object at a time, press CTRL whilst selecting each object with your mouse.

You can specify further preferences to the right of this box by selecting individual check boxes, for example: ‘Always use Mean Node’, or ‘Show descending node’, etc.

Show Chart

You have now generated your chosen natal chart drawing!

To switch transits on (which means putting the current position of the planets outside the natal wheel), click the ‘with transits‘ button.  

In the example below, I already have the transits displayed. The transits can be removed by selecting the blue button which now displays the words ‘without transits‘.

By selecting Save default setting, your preferences will be saved and applied to every chart that you view through your account.

This can be reset by selecting Back to the chart selection which takes you back to the Extended Chart Selection screen and clicking on Reset (next to the Click here to show the chart button).

Not Digging It?

However, if you don’t feel like signing up to Astro.com but would still like to generate your birth chart, you can Create Your Birth Chart here using the free tool on this website and tune in to The Stellium Astrology Podcast to learn how to read it!

Have you used Astro.com? What do you think of it? Perhaps you have used it and aren’t a fan? Why is this and what astrology software would you recommend?

Tell me in the comments below!

The post Create a Free Account with Astro.com first appeared on Stellium Astrology.

The post Create a Free Account with Astro.com appeared first on Stellium Astrology.