Uranus in Taurus turned direct today a six degrees. The planet will run to 12 degree degrees before turning retrograde in July, 2021. Collectively speaking, you can expect things to speed up and take unexpected turns. You think it’s “set” … Read More…
Year 2021: Subversive Elements in Society Spotlighted via Neptune in Pisces
by Jude Cowell
January 14, 2021: With difficult days of potential violence and turmoil continuing in the US (as if justified by the Inauguration of President Joe Biden on January 20th) some readers may be interested in viewing a horoscope of the moment that certain subversive energies peak with transit Neptune square the
I don’t have to tell you these are powerful times. Today’s New Moon brings us even deeper into the process of personal and collective transformation. The joining of brother Sun and sister Moon is known as the ‘Conjunctio’ or ‘Sacred Marriage’. This sacred meeting of yin and yang, inner and outer is an alchemical event – a seed moment that occurs as the Sun and Moon merge together. The seeds we plant at this time are filled with New Possibilities; new energies become available and new intentions get set in motion. Wherever we focus our intention ~ becomes our reality, especially in the most concrete of signs, Capricorn. This is about manifestation at its most powerful.
To thine own self be true, and thou canst be false to any man(or woman).
We are in deep need of healing and transformation as the world undergoes an extended period of profound disorientation and crisis. The metaphor of a sacred marriage is about the transformation that comes about through the sacred union of opposites. The metal associated with the Sun is Gold ~ which represents the Purity, Flexibility, and Connectivity of the sovereign Self as it incarnates here on earth. This outward yang principle is balanced by the yin, receptive aspects of the Moon, which is linked to Silver ~ the metal of emotions, of the psychic mind, of self loving and emotional nurturing. Silver brings patience and perseverance to the wearer while gold brings inner radiance. Gold and Silver entwined signify the sacred alchemy of a New Moon, and in Capricorn, symbolizes deep commitment.
So what are we committing to? This New Moon is aligned with Pluto, master of death and transformation, power and control, and it occurs at almost the same exact spot where last years Saturn/Pluto conjunction occurred. Remember that message about a karmic reckoning? Here we are again!
This New Moon sets the energy for the coming month, interesting to start the year by revisiting and reactivating that powerful and very difficult energy field. Perhaps this year can be different in some way. We are undergoing a profound shift as we enter the new era – so much of what has gone before must now give way to what is to come. Given all that, it’s not surprising that things are very intense right now. And it could get worse for a bit before it gets better (sorry to say), but in general things should even out as the year unfolds (with the odd bump). Although these current energies will linger and repeat throughout 2021 – January may end up being the most challenging month of the whole year.
The meeting of Saturn and Jupiter heralded a new ruler (Jupiter) and the death of the old ruler (Saturn). Jupiter in Aquarius offers an expansive experience of the collective consciousness as it shifts to a more inclusive and egalitarian way of life. To get there, the old (patriarchy, power structures, materialism) must give way, and something tells me it is not going to ‘go quietly into that good night!’
As the week unfolds, warrior planet Mars is heading toward a meetup with Uranus – the Awakener – and all bets are off as to how that will manifest. Saturn (rules, restrictions, authority) will square off with both Mars (anger, aggression) and Uranus (freedom and rebellion) over the next week. Tensions will reach boiling point. Things could get crazy (ier).
This is all a part of the deconstruction/reconstruction that occurs at the start of any new cycle. All is chaotic, unformed, dark. Confusion reigns. Yet there is always hope. New Moons bring in a new wave of energy, and there is a potential now for profound breakthroughs. Some sort of crisis (Pluto) will bring things to a head and catapult us to the next phase of this death/rebirth. We are in a process of initiation… there are tests and trails to be undergone. It will take courage. We have to step up tho the plate and see what our part is. Perhaps you are a social justice warrior. Or a healer. Maybe your job is to take care of the children. Or to bring beauty and creativity into the world. We will always need beauty. Some are here to hold the light or to hold space for others. Some are here to witness those who are passing.
Whatever it is- do it with heart. And trust that something wonderful will emerge out of this time of difficulty; this is a wake up call – there is a LOT that has to change on this planet. Pluto is stripping us down to make way for new growth. After a fire, new buds emerge.
On a more personal level, if you find yourself more OCD than usual, or getting into control dramas as you confront parts of yourself reflected in others, this is a time for deepening and for examining those hidden parts. Pluto brings up our shadow aspects- those aspects we don’t want to look at that are much easier to project onto others than to own in ourself. There is so much projection going on – everyone is highly triggered and polarized. Try to remember that every human being is merely a reflection of you. Yup – even the ones you hate. Especially the ones you hate.
“All human beings have the same needs ~ what differs is the strategies we used to meet those needs.”
Marshal Rosenberg ‘Nonviolent Communication’
There is a lot of blame going around right now and the finger is always pointing at someone else. Taking responsibility is part of what this Karmic Reckoning is about. Do the work. Face your stuff. Take responsibility for what you are creating in your world. Stop pointing fingers.
Our task ~ should we choose to accept it ~ it to invite a new vision, and help find new solutions, rather than contribute to the problems. Stop hating, start loving. Underneath ever conflict is a need… even those who you consider to be in the wrong have a need to be heard. We all have a need for autonomy and agency; a need to be acknowledged. A need for love. And as I see it, the only way we can change the dynamic, is to start with self love. Find the peace that lies inside of ourself first, then pass it on. Be a warrior for peace.
The New Moon occurs at 05:00 (UT) on January 13, at 23°Cp13′.
This is a dynamic chart and these are dynamic times. The New Moon sits on the degree beside last year’s Saturn-Pluto conjunction, stirring up memories of the past. We may find ourselves thinking of now and then, the passage of time, the irrevocable changes that we have endured and catalysed. The Moon is out of bounds, bringing a wild energy and Uranus is now stationary, bringing further instability – and Capricorn doesn’t like instability.
When the New Moon is in Capricorn, we resolve to make a new start around issues connected to career, professionalism, responsibilities, reputation, rules, commitments. Whatever we do, we feel the need to see something concrete that brings with it a sense of longevity. But this Moon is tightly conjunct Pluto and tightly square Eris, effectively triggering the ongoing Eris-Pluto square. When Eris was discovered, she demoted Pluto, rendering him no longer a planet in the eyes of astronomers. This is why we speak of Eris as she who deposes those who have abused their powers. It is Eris who points out the elephant in the room. It is Eris who insists we must acknowledge the problem. There’s trouble in the background, worldly woes – a climate emergency, political fights, deep division, disharmony, sickness and strife. It all filters in, bringing with it a trail of anxiety and a deep knowing that something needs to change.
click to enlarge
Saturn, the ruler of this lunation, is still conjunct Jupiter so we know that growth right now is somewhat stunted. Both planets are now in Aquarius, a sign firmly focused on the future, but we can’t get clear about the future until we are clear about the present! This is the gift of this combination. This New Moon conjunct perceptive Pluto could be the reality check we need to ground and centre us, even if the truth is ugly or otherwise unpalatable.
Saturn is now in orb of the first square to Uranus and given that both planets are rulers of Aquarius, we have a symbolic battle between the old ruler and the new ruler. I’ve noticed that Saturn transits can sometimes be quite literal in their manifestations – perhaps because Saturn prefers to speak plainly without frills! And so, the eyes of the world have been on the US as the old President leaves and the new one enters.
We also have a growing unrest around issues connected to freedom (Uranus) and restriction (Saturn). Whilst Saturn’s passage through Aquarius tells us that society must endure some collective restrictions, Uranus is rebellious and doesn’t like being told what to do. Yet working at their best, this aspect shows us that when we pull together it gives us a better chance of progress – not to mention a better future (Uranus). Together these two astrological rulers instruct us that age old wisdom plus innovation will create a foundation for the next generation.
Mars is also now in orb of a conjunction to Uranus increasing volatility. Note that this aspect perfects on January 20 so yes, there is fiery tension around the US inauguration. The atmosphere is argumentative (Mercury square Mars) and inflammatory (Mars square Jupiter). People are frustrated with the slow down in pace, angry at the rules, authority figures and other obstacles (Mars square Saturn). Nothing is easy about this chart and yet as Saturn would tell us, no one said it would be easy. Pluto conjunct the New Moon tells us that this is an opportune time for getting rid of what we don’t need and to restructure. We need to take control where we can and stop obsessing over what we can’t control. The weight of the world may feel acute but maturity and a stalwart, responsible attitude will get us through.
So no, it’s not an easy chart.
But Capricorn energy is all about working with what you have and making the best of it. Take a moment to look at your life. Reach into your heart. See the Truth of your reality. Dig deep to get to the root of fear. Acknowledge what needs to change but resist any urge to beat yourself about the head about it! There’s a big difference between a quiet, powerful resolve to take responsibility and berating yourself. Consider what small step you take today to lay the foundation for a better future or to create greater stability in your life. Don’t be afraid to start again from scratch if that’s what it takes. Stop telling yourself scary stories. The world out there is scary enough right now without adding to the mix. As Venus is in Capricorn too at the moment, focus on simple pleasures to soften some of life’s hard edges. Give yourself a task to complete that isn’t too overwhelming so that you feel a sense of accomplishment. Pat yourself on the back for all that you have achieved. Know your power. Create healthy boundaries. Hold fast to your authentic self. Trust that you have the strength to climb that mountain one more time.
The new moon in Capricorn takes place at 23 degrees, right around midnight tonight. You can check my new Transit Calendar for the exact time in your location. As you can see below, the sun and moon are tightly conjunct … Read More…
This week is the New Moon phase, traditionally a symbol of new beginnings. Yet, this month’s New Moon, the first in 2021 is very different and there are a couple of reasons why.
Endings & Beginnings
Firstly, note the degree of the New Moon at 23 Capricorn. This is where so much of the major planetary activity took place last year. In fact, the Saturn-Pluto conjunction in Capricorn on January 12, 2020 – the Great Reset – fell at 22 Capricorn 46, very close to this week’s New Moon.
Secondly, Pluto is still in the house. Yes, the planet of death, loss & transformation, the Darth Vader of the universe, God of the Underworld in mythology is at 24 Capricorn 35 and sits next to the Sun & Moon during the New Moon phase.
So, what do we make of this. Well, firstly it’s a New Moon of endings and any new beginnings will arise out of what you ditch, quit or leave behind at the start of 2021. Some doors may slam shut, some tough choices may need to be made – it’s a major planetary reality check.
Some of you will be considering what’s too much work in your life or where you’re ready to stop and do nothing, if that possibility is allowed. It’s tough for many people right now and the slog of daily life, chores & responsibilities or the loneliness of a lockdown situation can weigh heavy.
Letting Go
So, do yourself a favour. Pat yourself on the back for whatever you’re able to achieve right now. And, if you are letting go of stuff, why not have a physical clear out, let go of emotional baggage and ditch any resentments or regrets on the way?
There are positives to comes out of our current global situation, although the reality is that for some people this is easier than others. Yet, it’s worth remembering that some endings are good endings and can transform a stuck situation.
Mars Square Saturn
In case, you’re not convinced by the New Moon symbolism alone, the ruler of this Capricorn New Moon is Saturn and what’s Saturn up to right now? Saturn is at 3 Aquarius and making a definitive square aspect to Mars at 3 Taurus, exact only a few hours later on January 13th (11:02 GMT).
Mars and Saturn square aspects are about slamming on the brakes – Mars wants action, do it now, Saturn is cautious and wants certainty. Yet, use these two planets together constructively and, where there’s a will, there’s a way.
Once you’ve embraced the ending, whatever that means for you, only then can you start over or set off in a new direction. A good time to do this is when you first catch sight of the crescent Moon in the sky over the next few nights.
Capricorn New Moon
This is a Capricorn New Moon after all and always a good time to set some serious intentions and plan long-term, look ahead and commit to new disciplines or goals.
This isn’t about overnight success either. Instead, take a long-term approach and work steadily and diligently towards your goals, however big or small. Line up a new mountain to climb and take regular, steady steps day in, day out to reach the pinnacle.
You need to play by the rules when Capricorn’s in town and it’s wise not to cut corners. Instead, prove your worth and hone your discipline.
What Does It Mean For You
Here are the specific areas of life where the New Moon in Capricorn is happening and those key themes of endings & new beginnings are likely to be evident. Read both your Sun sign and your Ascendant sign for a thorough ‘Capricorn-like’ analysis:
Leo: work, everyday lifestyle, health, service to others
Virgo: love affairs, children, creativity, entertainment, luck
Libra: home, family, your past, where you come from
Scorpio: communication, education, local community, siblings
Sagittarius: personal money, possessions, values, resources
Capricorn: personal goals, physical body, image & appearance
Aquarius: retreat, secrets, inner work
Pisces: friends, groups, social networks, hopes & wishes
As I wrote to my weekly subscribers this week, please stay safe and well and find the moments of grace and joy that are evident in your life each and every day. Sometimes, you have to scrabble a little harder amongst the fog but beauty is everywhere, as it is in each and every one of you.
I admit to being drawn to taboo. I’ve been this way for as long as I can remember. I want to know things. It’s one of the reasons I got into astrology. Natally, I have a packed 8th house. Currently … Read More…
Uranus in Taurus turned direct today a six degrees. The planet will run to 12 degree degrees before turning retrograde in July, 2021. Collectively speaking, you can expect things to speed up and take unexpected turns. You think it’s “set” … Read More…
The New Moon occurs at 05:00 (UT) on January 13, at 23°Cp13′.
