QUARTERLY JOURNAL OF OPA

Career OPA’s Quarterly Magazine Astrologer The

ASTROLOGY and DIVINATION

plus JUPITER IN PISCES

JUNE SOLSTICE The Organization for V30 02 2021 Professional Astrology V28-03 SEPTEMBER EQUINOX 2019 page 1 QUARTERLY JOURNAL OF OPA

Career The ASTROLOGY AND DIVINATION Astrologer 22 Why Magic, And Why Now? JUNE SOLSTICE p. 11 Michael Ofek V30 02 2021 28 Palmistry as a Divination Tool REIMAGINING LIFE Anne C. Ortelee WITH THE GIFTS OF ASTROLOGY 32 Astrologers in a World of Omens Alan Annand 36 Will she Come Back to Me? ASTROLOGY Vasilios Takos JUPITER 39 Magic Astrology and a Talisman for Success in PISCES and DIVINATION Laurie Naughtin JUPITER in PISCES JUPITER IN PISCES p. 64 64 Jupiter in Pisces 2021-2022 Editors: Maurice Fernandez, Attunement to Higher William Sebrans Truths and Healing Alexandra Karacostas Peggy Schick Proofing: Nancy Beale, Features Jeremy Kanyo 68 Neptune In Pisces' Scorpio Decan Design: Sara Fisk Amy Shapiro 11 OPA LIVE Introduction Cover Art: Tuba Gök, see p. 50 71 Astrology, the Common 12 OPA LIVE Vocational Astrology Belief of Tomorrow © 2021 OPA All rights reserved. No part of this OMARI Martin Michael Kiyoshi Salvatore publication may be reproduced without the written consent of OPA, unless by the authors of Jupiter and Neptune in Pisces: the articles themselves. 76 17 OPA LIVE Grief Consulting Crystallising Emerging DISCLAIMER: While OPA provides a platform for articles for Astrologers Awareness to appear in this publication, the content and ideas are Magalí Morales not necessarily reflecting OPA’s points of view. Each Robbie Tulip author is responsible for the content of their articles.

The Organization for Columns p. 56 Professional Astrology 6 TRANSITS OF THE SEASON Anne Sundell 46 Breaking the Fourth Wall Russ von Ohlhausen 52 The Business of Astrology Stormie Grace 56 Saturn: Our Great Galactic Teacher Anne Redlich

OPAastrology.org

p. 46 p. 52

Astrologer The Career p. 58 Dear OPA Members,

elcome to our June Solstice edition. We’re halfway through 2021, W dancing in the square of Uranus and Saturn, weaving together a rich Articles tapestry of innovation and progress, synthesized with the urgent need for a sustainable earth, and our collective need to be more personally ground- 44 Astrology and Weather ed in our choices in this ever expanding technological age. Öner Döşer We are working through this complicated integration within OPA. We 58 Astro-Expressionisms: have morphed permanently into virtual offerings of our conference and Art and the Astrological certification trainings, while we still plan to also offer personal retreat confer- Experience Amir Bey ences in beautiful nature settings when it’s fully safe to travel and mingle. As a result of the ease and affordability of Zoom trainings, we have a record number of OPA Members pursuing certification—plus over a 30% increase in membership during the past year. p. 44 We are proud of our fantastic April virtual conference and are hopeful that at least part of our next conference will be in person. We will find the balance of earth and technology.

So much change!

I am personally very excited about the fabulous Stormie Grace join- ing our board this month, while several talented individuals have stepped forward to volunteer their time and expertise as we expand into the next year. More on this soon. Happy PRIDE Month! We send heartfelt wishes to all of our LGBTQ+ members and friends. It’s taken a long time to get here, speaking of radical change, but through the courage of all who “came out” when it was partic- ularly risky to do so, we are in a whole new world in terms of freedom to express one’s sexuality and gender in most countries throughout the globe. Happy Juneteenth! A worthy celebration, and a reminder that so much more needs to be done to create true equity.

May your Solstice season be sweet! We value your support and membership. In gratitude, Kay

p 80

More 80 INTERVIEW with OMARI Martin

R PRESIDENT’S REPORT

V30-02 JUNE SOLSTICE 2021 page 3 SECURE June - October, 2021 YOUR SPOT NOW OPA 2021 VIRTUAL CONFERENCE ASTROLOGY

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Join OPA Supporting beginners, intermediates, Grow JOIN AN EVER-GROWING JOIN OPA and professionals since 2000 COMMUNITY EXPAND YOUR North America, Latin Countries, ASTROLOGY EXPERIENCE Make Astrology Stronger Scandinavia - Finland, Greece, Turkey, Israel, UK, • Astrology Discussions (online) OUR GOALS Australia, South Africa • OPA LIVE panels (online) • Accessibility OPA IS OPENING THE SKIES • Beginners classes (online) for all levels of study EVERYWHERE ON EARTH! and community • Professional Guidance • Credibility (online and on-site) higher standards of practice • Quarterly magazine (online and in print) • Sustainability making astrology a • And much more… viable profession OPAastrology.org page Astrologer OPA’s Quarterly Magazine 4 The Career Welcome to our June 2021 Solstice Issue by William Sebrans

Horatio: Jupiter represents where we have or are really asked is to balance our faith with O day and night, but this is wondrous strange! are called to faith, and it is an act of consid- healthy doses of discernment. Hamlet: ered faith to trust in a synchronistic cosmos, That blend of perspectives should And therefore, as a stranger give it welcome. -- one where planetary motions, colors, come naturally to us when it comes to the There are more things in heaven and earth, plants, palms, birds, and anything at all, methodologies described in many of the conspire in a moment to convey a truth not articles, herein. That’s because to proceed Horatio, accessible to our purely rational philoso- with such faith takes rigorous study, prac- Than are dreamt of in your philosophy. phies and narratives. tice, humbling, and dedicated collegiate Hamlet Act 1 It is also faith, to not only hear and conferencing to “tap the magic” no matter, heed that very particularized truth, but except in very rare cases, how intuitive or to receive a course of remedy that can miti- believing by nature one may be. gate or avert one that is potentially harmful …And that all said, there’s no harm to body, mind, and soul, as it is, as well, to done, and considerable advantage prom- augment advantage and opportunity in life ised in looking out for faeries, elementals, by using similar methods. and Middle-Earth dwellers on Midsummer's The “history” of divination transcends and Midwinter’s Eve. prosaic history, going back beyond our Certainly, we have been fools for lesser written speculations to ancient oral things, no? traditions and even earlier, to indige- nous practices that saw and continue to embrace Nature’s fantastic web of effects and appearances as one great omen, Summarized below, awaiting you in this magically interconnected. issue, is yet again another impressive array Planetary and stellar influence, as of thought-streams, images, and perspec- reflected in our charts, our palms, our faces, tives on astrology’s multifaceted expressions and in the myriad animals, plants, gems, in our various worlds. natural formations, synchronistic events— all can give us, with study, cues to the chal- • OPA Live presenters deliver practical lenges and the benign invitations of the insight into: moment. Vocation: OMARI Martin In this issue, we explore horary, Location: Wolfram magical elections and talisman creation, Finances: Rachel Lang palmistry, and other divination practices Grief Counseling: Magali Morales Edward Robert Hughes Midsummer’s Eve, 1908 from both the Western and Eastern tradi- • Offering perspectives on the Divinatory tions, all of which reference what is going Arts: Laurie Naughtin, Alan Annand, rying to shake the ponderous effect on “above” to what is going below, around, Vasilios Takos, Anne Ortelee, & of the Saturn and Capricorn ener- and within. Michael Ofek T gies of the past years, is like trying Jupiter in Pisces’s natural propensity to take your neighbor’s cat out for a walk. to bless, —blesses, then, our investigation. • The Jupiter in Pisces theme receives It will go when, where, and how it To be clear, Jupiter doesn’t always diverse treatment from: Amy Shapiro, damn well pleases. bless; he can create trouble, like the rest of Michael Kiyoshi Salvatore, Peggy That said, Jupiter’s temporary ingress his stellar family. Schick, Robbie Tulip into Pisces, out of the clutches of Saturn’s We know his excess well — spreading • And we have this year’s regular col- dominance, —along with the relaxation of what needs to be limited, over-extending umns from, Anne Redlich, Russell Von the late 2020 Nodal square to Neptune — faith where verification would serve better, Olhausen, Stormie Grace has created for many of we pilgrims, some- and reaching to the stars at the expense of thing of an intermittent breather (…just cleaning the messes in our finances, sock • Our quarterly interview, this time with enough to enjoy the sultry pleasures of the drawers, and relationships. OMARI Martin Saturn-Uranus square all by itself). Still, he remains a ready ally in our • …and articles from Oner Doser, This issue of Career Astrologer high- search for meaning, even in application Madalyn Hillis-Dineen, Amir Bey lights and merges two related themes, to the most practical affairs of the day. as suggested in our visionary cover art “Walking the mystical path with prac- Welcome to the ride and thank you for – Jupiter in Pisces, and the Art of tical feet” is the golden center, and all we being OPA members. Astrological Divination. R

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stations retrograde at 2° degrees 11´ in feeling of insecurity, call for social change, Pisces making a beautiful trine to this and a need to challenge the status quo. Transits Solstice Sun. Jupiter’s retrograde phase So, while enjoying the holiday let´s also be will last until Oct 18 this year. careful and stay safe. The stationary planets are often per- You can explore where Jupiter and of the ceived to have increased intensity in the Uranus will be transiting in your chart chart, making an impact on a global scale. during this time, and apply these influences The aspects they make are highlighted to your personal life. and in the Solstice chart, Jupiter is making Season only one major aspect through the trine Capricorn Full Moon – Pluto/Venus to the Sun. This is even more interesting as opposition (June 24) Jupiter can also be seen as unintegrated The Full Moon in Capricorn on June when not making any other major aspects. 24, with Pluto opposing Venus, might Periods when Jupiter has been stationary bring up more intense emotions. In the have been viewed as significant concern- sign of Capricorn, the Full Moon high- ing religious or ideological matters. People lights the conflict between our sense of who have been instrumental in religious duty and our emotional needs which can and ideological causes have often been make us feel vulnerable. At the Full Moon born with Jupiter station. To mention a there is a general feeling of restlessness few examples, spiritual leader Dalai Lama when the energies involved are opposing was born during stationary Jupiter in each other. With Pluto and Venus in the Scorpio, as was dictator Adolf Hitler with same framework, we may confront issues stationary Jupiter in Capricorn. It´s time to concerning power and other insecurities look back and rethink some of the beliefs concerning ourselves or close relationships. and practices that have been established up to this point. How do we find our own truth? As the world is slowly opening up BY ANNE SUNDELL after the pandemic, this might also be a The stationary planets time when limits are fully tested as we pro- ceed into a new and unknown reality. are often perceived In the Solstice chart, Uranus is also to have increased JUNE 20 to opposing the Scorpio Moon, while intensity in the chart, Saturn and Mars square it, adding a SEPTEMBER great deal of restlessness to the whole making an impact on picture. This aspect might also add to the a global scale. 22, 2021

appy Birthday all Cancers! This period kicks off with the Sun mov- H ing into this emotional water sign. It offers to reacquaint ourselves with the realms of this first water sign. When the Sun moves through Cancer, we might get a bit more sentimental and emotional, reminders of how this Sun sign expresses itself. We might want to spend more time with family and loved ones, and what time is better than the gathering of fami- ly at midsummer?

Summer Solstice – Sun in Cancer Trine Jupiter in Pisces (June 20-21) During summer solstice, the Sun is at 0° degrees of Cancer and has now reached its point of no return, the point as far north as it can go from the Equator during its whole yearly cycle. In the northern hemi- sphere night equals the day and there is light all around the clock, especially where I live in Finland. Simultaneously, the largest of our planets, Jupiter, slows down and

page Astrologer OPA’s Quarterly Magazine 6 The Career

It is time for “shadow work”, bringing to a change in our foundations and the use the surface what lurks beneath. of resources. This can lead to contentious For example, you may feel more pos- energies with parental figures or govern- sessive of your loved ones. Pluto’s influence Karmically speaking, ments. It is worth paying attention to our might suddenly make things seem very T-squares in fixed signs health during this time, especially the car- black and white. dio/vascular system (Leo/Aquarius axis). The Sabian Symbol for this Full Moon refer to very old Someone once described this con- degree, 3°27 Capricorn, is “A Human Soul, patterns of behavior figuration as driving a car with only three in its eagerness for new experiences, that invite wheels. The T-square containing three seeks embodiment”. Embedded in the planets with a tense connection to each feelings of power struggle we might also reconsideration and other is not easy to navigate. To be able to be needing to prove ourselves as this Moon improvement. better resolve this we might need to add sign asks us to act in a confident and delib- the “missing” point that makes this pattern erate manner. balanced. We will simply not accept a no for an tation of being difficult to deal with ener- Globally this might express a period answer. The sign of Capricorn is challeng- getically, especially when situated in the of time when frustrating feelings and ener- ing us to keep a rational head, take charge unyielding fixed signs. These alignments gies run higher than usual. From the end of of our emotions and help us achieve the also reflect very strong energies that can June into early July, we are eager for chang- goals we have set. This Full Moon time help us strive toward our goals in a consis- es that are not coming quickly enough. might therefore be a very productive tent fashion. one, finishing personal projects and other If we break down this square, the loose ends, placing mind over emotions. planets opposing each other are Saturn Sometimes the A reminder of the body parts associated hitting the brakes in Aquarius, opposing missing “fourth wheel” with this Moon sign are the bones, includ- Mars in Leo pushing the gas pedal, while ing joints, knees, teeth or spine/back. the focal planet, Uranus in Taurus is chal- is the solution to the Perhaps a time for a visit to the chiroprac- lenging the status quo of our economies built-up tension, and tor or massage therapist? and resources. The primary reoccurring theme for this year will remain the Saturn in this case, it would URANUS – MARS – SATURN and Uranus square. Karmically speaking, be the empty T-Square 12-13 degrees Fixed T-squares in fixed signs refer to very old SIGNS (July 1) patterns of behavior that invite reconsid- point of Scorpio at Driving a car with three wheels— eration and improvement. 13°-14° degrees. During this period of 2021 we will be Mars opposing Saturn describes a con- experiencing a T-square in the fixed signs of frontation with authority figures, a need to Taurus, Leo and Aquarius that will be exact challenge leaders. This is reinforced by the Sometimes the missing “fourth wheel” is on the first of July. T-squares have a repu- square to Uranus in Taurus which prompts the solution to the built-up tension, and in this case, it would be the empty point of Scorpio at 13°-14° degrees. While there may be irritation, the positive side of this intensity can bring to fruition many suc- cessful projects that require determination and strength. It is important to be more conscious of our own personal rhythm, especially around early July. Once we push through and get this fixed energy started, there´s hardly anything that can stop us.

A Spiritual Cycle – Venus and Mars conjunct at 19 Leo (July 13) On July 13, Venus and Mars end another cycle at 19 degrees Leo. These relationship planets form conjunctions in a series of events recurring over a thirty-two year period and are seen as highlights of spiritual growth. It may be of interest to check out where this conjunction is play- ing out in your personal chart, as this is an area of your life where these symbols can teach you something about how you relate to the world around you. This is simultane- ously a starting and an ending point of the feminine and masculine forces, the conjoin- ing of the emotional and passionate sides these two planets represent.

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Transits of the Season A new energy boost – New Moon @ At the end of August, the Full Moon in 16 Leo (August 8) Aquarius will conjoin Jupiter as the Sun The New Moon gets a boost of fire will be ingressing into Virgo. Jupiter gives Asteroid Juno /Hera, associated with energy in the sign of Leo at 16° degrees this otherwise “cool” Moon sign enthusi- ideals in relationships, will station retro- and daily life kicks off in a grand way. This asm and optimism. It represents our need grade on the South Node the 14 of July. new start can also propel us into a new to enhance our social life and get together When planets or asteroids are in contact direction – relative to the house matters with likeminded people, maybe in a group with the Lunar Nodes, they highlight where it falls in your chart. In the sign of studying astrology. Jupiter is also the planet karmic issues related to relationships — we Leo, this lunation is square Uranus possi- ruling spiritual growth and worldviews, so may experience a need to resolve old pat- bly making us feel restless and impatient as themes associated with the meaning of life terns with our partners. we want change to happen rapidly. can become of greater interest. The Virgo In the sign of Sagittarius, Juno helps This lunation brings out the gentler Sun a day later will add to the practical us acknowledge our values in partnerships, side of Leo, perhaps through generosity arrangements we need to address, so it´s placing an emphasis on the spiritual and and heart-centeredness. The New Moon an auspicious time to make those plans real intellectual sides of relationships. In a in a fire sign offers us the opportunity to and get to work! fire sign she may ask us to focus on the commit to new goals, and possibly even shared visions and questions regarding represent a new romance. In Leo this is a Mars opposing Neptune at 22 Virgo/ independence and freedom within our good time to enjoy the fun things in life Pisces (September 2) relationships. Perhaps we require greater and let your inner child out to play. With A complex configuration aligns with intellectual stimulation or a reassessment of Uranus on the scene, there can always be a Mars in Virgo opposing Neptune in Pisces. our shared values or visions. surprise or alteration of plans, so it´s import- Mars in Virgo aims at precision and strategic Another Asteroid Goddess, Ceres/ ant to be a bit more flexible than usual. action, whereas Neptune often represents a Demeter, moves into Gemini, the last day loss of focus, uncertainty, and more difficul- of July. As she travels through each sign, ty getting a grip on reality. this Goddess teaches us about the twelve This opposition can manifest in a num- different ways we can nurture ourselves In the sign of ber of ways, and, as with oppositions, we and others. In the sign of Gemini, Ceres tend to slide from one planet theme to the is prone to use meaningful conversations Sagittarius, Juno helps other. In a positive way, this can generate and information as a way of showing affec- us acknowledge our inspiration for artistic expression, motivat- ing us to use the practical energy of Virgo tion. How about reading that book that values in partnerships, you never found the time to delve into? Or Mars to manifest the dreams of Neptune talk to your friend about some important placing an emphasis on in Pisces. matter which can enrich and deepen your the spiritual and The challenge is to find the balance experience now more than usual? Examples between what we can and cannot control. of public figures born with Ceres in Gemini intellectual sides of We must be careful not to lose ourselves are the brave pilot Amelia Earhart and relationships. in the process. This pattern requires a ges- astrologer Alan Leo, both pioneers in their ture of self-sacrifice and being of service. own fields of travel and publication. We must be mindful about maintaining healthy boundaries and how we are assert- ing ourselves; learning when to fight and when to let go. Possible self-doubt or a feel- ing of defeat can emerge, prompting us to focus and decide on what we feel is really worth fighting for. Happy Solstice to all!

REFERENCES Astro.com George Demetra, Asteroid Goddesses: The Mythology, Psychology and Astrology of the Reemerging Feminine (ACS Publications 1986) Grasse Ray, Under a Sacred Sky: Essays on the Practice and Philosophy of Astrology (The Wessex Astrologer Ltd 2015) Wolf Green Jeffrey, Pluto The Evolutionary Journey of the Soul (Wessex Astrologer Ltd 2011) www.timeanddate.com Rudhyar Dane, Astrological Aspects (Noble Offset Printers 1980) Rudhyar Dane, The Astrological Mandala: The Cycle of Transformations and Its 360 Symbolic Phases (Vintage Books 1974) Urmas Maija, Lecture notes on asteroids retrograding (2000)

Anne Sundell Dip. MISPA Is a Finnish based astrol- oger, writer and OPA’s Finnish Satellite. She´s head lecturer and founder of the Finnish astrological education programme: Journey of The Soul Ltd - Education for Karmic and Esoteric Astrology. R

page Astrologer OPA’s Quarterly Magazine 8 The Career V30-02 JUNE SOLSTICE 2021 page 9

ONLINE INTRODUCTION COURSE TO ASTROLOGY FUNDAMENTALS The Building Blocks of Chart Delineation and Synthesis 12 Sessions by OPA available as videos with handouts. OPA has created this special program to introduce you to the building blocks of astrology. If you have some prior experience in astrology, this is an opportunity to bring the pieces together and solidify your foundation. 1 • Introduction to Astrology: History, Astronomy, Astrology, & Humanity • Maurice Fernandez 2 • The Elements: Fire, Earth, Air, & Water • Carol Dimitrov 3 & 4 • The Signs – Part 1&2: Aries to Pisces • Arlan Wise & Geoff Gronlund OPA 5 • Chart Components: Signs, Houses, Planets and Modes • Geni Picazo MEMBERS

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page Astrologer OPA’s Quarterly Magazine 10 The Career OPA LIVE SPECIAL

FOUR ASTROLOGERS DISCUSS REIMAGINING LIFE WITH THE GIFTS OF ASTROLOGY

A year locked up with a partner, to continue working virtually, we were navigating Zoom space, brought often caught in the upheaval of family many relationships to an end. Some and friends. Introduction left their jobs to homeschool their To help you deepen your astro- children. As remote work became a logical skills in key theme areas, we to permanent choice, many have moved have asked four expert astrologers to a new location or are still consid- to offer their expertise in the areas OPA LIVE ering a relocation. The loss of loved of personal finances, vocational ones has brought new and old clients astrology, locational astrology and by Kay Taylor in to lean on a trusted astrologer to consulting skills for grief. get through the grief. And it’s not just clients who need NOTE: The articles by Rachel Lang (personal support to navigate intense transitions. finances) and Wolfram (locational astrology) Many astrologers have faced daunting are for OPA members only. lot has changed over the past choices. Even if we were lucky enough eighteen months. For some, A it was a complete wipeout of life as they knew it. Others have been hobbling along, while some are busier than ever on the front lines of their fields, including research, technology and healing. As astrologers we are asked to support people as they reimagine their life in whatever new, post 2020 direction it is going. The Saturn/Uranus square emphasizes security and conserva- tive values creatively integrated with progress and unexpected change.

V30-02 JUNE SOLSTICE 2021 page 11 OPA LIVE SPECIAL

OMARI MARTIN REIMAGINING LIFE RACHEL LANG WOLFRAM WITH THE GIFTS OF ASTROLOGY MAGALÍ MORALES STORMIE GRACE PHILIP GRAVES KAY TAYLOR LAURA NALBANDIAN

of birth, place of birth, and time of birth. The MBTI® personality inventory and the DiSC behavioral assessment tool are sub- jective and based on how one answers the Vocational Astrology: questions at the time the survey instrument is completed. However, all three can be used to identify a career for which one’s per- Which Way is Up? sonality and behavior are optimally suited. by OMARI Martin Houses of Vocational Astrology The Rechter Approach

The Second House The second house is resources. It What is Vocational Astrology? value in corporate or academic settings. conveys not only the desire, or lack of it, Vocational astrology is the process However, the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator® for material goods (including money), but of identifying trends in the natal chart (MBTI®) personality inventory has as its pur- the natural ability, or lack of it, to obtain or that point towards a particular profes- pose to make the theory of psychological accumulate these things. The sign on the sion or industry. This would include and types described by C. G. Jung understand- cusp should be considered first. The ruler not be limited to doctor, lawyer, teacher, able and useful in people’s lives. Based of the sign on the cusp must be considered social worker, engineer, politician, cler- on how the questions are answered, one second. In dignity or exaltation, there is an gyman, salesman, banker, jeweler, etc. may lie somewhere between the following ease of acquisition, but the opposite is true While specific roles or positions have been polarities—extraversion or introversion; of the fall or detriment. When the ruler named, each belongs to a profession or sensing or intuition; thinking or feeling; is afflicted, it is necessary to reach out to industry. There are some individuals who judging or perceiving. Then, there is and work for accumulation. Third, aspects have a successful career, but they do not DiSC, which is a behavior assessment tool to the ruler of the sign on the cusp are like it. Others like their career, but may not based on the DiSC theory of psychologist next in priority. The presence of squares be successful especially in terms of dollars William Moulton Marston, which centers on denotes much effort - an overt reaching and cents. The word successful itself is four different behavior traits: dominance, out to bring in funds and possessions. subjective and has a different meaning for inducement, submission, and compliance. Oppositions always indicate choices, and, different individuals. This theory was then developed into a in the case of the second house cusp ruler, According to Luntz (1962): behavioral assessment tool by industrial this means the mental application to “A person of strong will-power, fixed psychologist Walter Vernon Clarke. accumulating funds, or good choices in determination, and perseverance may Vocational astrology is based on objec- investments, or accounts. The absence of achieve moderate success in a vocation for tive information, namely an individual’s date hard angle aspects suggests a good steady which their horoscope shows them to be flow of resources and insurance against unfitted. But the horoscope also shows the abject poverty at any time in life. Planets preponderance of fixed signs and other indi- The profession or placed in the second house are fourth in cators that mark the will that did it. To what industry vocational priority. The nature of the planet lends itself to the affairs of that house. heights, however, might this will not have astrology helps to carried them had they followed the lines of their natural aptitude as laid down in the identify in the natal The Sixth House The sixth house determines the natal chart? Swimming against the current is chart is based on the good exercise but slow progress.“ manner in which one gets along with The profession or industry vocation- combination of the co-workers, as well as the services ren- al astrology helps to identify in the natal four elements — fire, dered. The quality of the sign on the cusp should be considered first. chart is based on the combination of the earth, air, and water, four elements — fire, earth, air, and water, which can yield success and satisfaction. which can yield success • Cardinal: Capable of being promoted, desires varied tasks, wants to experi- Unfortunately, this particular application and satisfaction. of astrology is not recognized as having ence accomplishment

page Astrologer OPA’s Quarterly Magazine 12 The Career Videos of OPA live presentationsV areI available • Fixed: Loyal, capable of sustained themselves to the affairs of that house and Jupiter form trine aspects to the Sun and concentration, wants to experience should be considered fourth. Venus. Jupiter rules the Midheaven. Does it security and lack of tension get any better than this? Let’s see. • Mutable: Detail oriented, dexterous, Vocational Astrology: Speaking of Jupiter, it rules the wants to experience perfection Celebrity Profile, Whitney Houston Midheaven or 10th house cusp, which is in Whitney Houston was born on August Sagittarius at 18 degrees 23 minutes. This The elements, as usual, give hints: 9, 1963 at 8:55 pm EDT in Newark, New is the house of Career, Public Standing, Jersey. The source for the birth time is Achievements & Honors. In her natal chart, • Fire and Earth: “Thing” oriented, the birth certificate according to Kathryn it is found in the first house in Aries at would prefer to work alone and be Farmer with a Rodden Rating of AA. Her 19 degrees 29 minutes and is retrograde. autonomous natal chart really stands out because the According to Carbone (1984), one with • Air and Water: “People” oriented, does Moon and Jupiter form trine aspects to this placement of Jupiter retrograde in the not prefer to work alone and needs the Midheaven. Also, the Sun and Venus, first house wants to be recognized for the communication with a wide orb, form trine aspects to the progress made in life. It is conjoined by the Midheaven as well. Then, the Moon and Moon. Being recognized or achieving suc- Dignities and detriments, etc. of the cess in life is something that was strongly ruler of the sign determine ease or lack of desired and, most likely, she felt she could it in performance. Aspects are the second easily achieve it. She was born into a family priority. Afflictions to the ruler of the sign Being recognized of famous female singers, namely Dionne on the cusp (squares in particular) would or achieving success Warwick, Dee Dee Warwick, and her moth- suggest lack of accord with co-workers er Cissy Houston. Yes, she entered the and difficulty in performing tasks. This can in life is something family business. There is a trine aspect take the form of personality clashes with that was strongly between Jupiter and the Sun. co-workers in the cardinal signs, complaints With her natal Sun in Leo at 16 about other’s work in the fixed signs, and desired and, degrees 42 minutes, she possessed will- temperamentality in the mutable signs. most likely, power and determination to succeed. On Planets placed in the house lend descrip- Whitney Houston stage, she was a diva, who commanded tive coloring to the service performed and the attention of the audience with her gift, are considered third. felt she could style and grace of a queen. Besides, the easily achieve it. Sun is dignified in Leo. With this major The Tenth House aspect with Jupiter, she traveled interna- The profession is defined best in the tionally and was known all over the world. tenth house. It is one’s place in the world, and one’s superiors, if that applies. The individual signs found there have much to reveal concerning the particular occu- pation to which one is best suited, and should be considered first. The nature of these signs on the tenth house cusp can also define the personality of one’s immedi- ate supervisor or manager, and the aspects to the ruler show whether compatible rela- tionships with supervisors or managers are to be expected, and should be consid- ered second. Take note of the ruler of the sign on the cusp and whether it is in a comfortable placement, just in a sign, or uncomfortable. Aspects to the ruler must be considered third. Squares and oppositions do not deny success, but lend a bit of an obstacle to pursuits and demand more attention to that area of life. Often the square can lend strength, and the opposition a good decision-making ability. In a conjunction, attributes of the planet other than the ruler are superimposed on it. Trines and sex- tiles, of course, lend ease of operation and smooth professional ability. The attributes of planets placed in the tenth house lend

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MARTIN The author admits that it is easy to look at a chart of a celebrity retrospectively to The Sun is the ruler of the 6th house cusp, behold how astrology works and planetary A good way which is the house of Health, Work, and energy is manifested in the life of an indi- Service. The Sun is found in the house it vidual. A good way to verify some of the to verify some rules. With Leo on the cusp, it speaks to delineation and synthesis is through taking of the delineation one who could have a long career and in a look at progressions, transits, and declina- and synthesis is the spotlight. This was certainly the case tions. In theory, specific planetary aspects for Whitney whose career lasted approxi- should signify or align with major events in through taking mately 25 years. the life of the native. Next, we take a look a look at Mars is the ruler of the 2nd house at this for Whitney Houston. cusp, which is the house of Money, Values, progressions, and Possessions, which includes Talent. In Whitney Houston: transits, and her natal chart, it is found in the 7th house The 28th Grammy® Awards declinations. in Libra at 8 degrees 29 minutes. While The 28th Grammy® Awards stand Mars is in detriment in Libra, she was not out for Whitney Houston, because this is shy about being social and probably did when she won her first Grammy®. This not experience stage fright. Whitney has ceremony occurred on February 25, 1986 Progressions shared that she started singing in the at The Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles, The secondary progressed Moon in church at an early age. It is probably safe California. She won the award for Best Pop Aquarius at 8 degrees Libra 52 minutes to say that at every performance she was Vocal Performance, Female. The song was forms a trine aspect to her natal Mars able to lead the audience through their “Saving All My Love for You” from her first in Libra at 8 degrees 29 minutes. Mars experience with her artistry. This applies to album. What were the secondary progres- rules her 2nd house of Money, Values, and her musicians too. sions for Whitney this particular evening? Possessions. The Moon symbolizes people,

page Astrologer OPA’s Quarterly Magazine 14 The Career Videos of OPA live presentationsV areI available who voted for her, or the public, who are Progressed Declinations her adoring fans, and in Aquarius their The progressed Sun by declination ideal image of the winner for this award. is 8 degrees north 26 minutes and is How Whitney The award is a possession and winning one contra-parallel her natal Ascendant at certainly leads to more recording contracts 8 degrees south 25 minutes. The con- looked to the public as a singer, which is more money. tra-parallel is viewed as an opposition. (Ascendant) that Secondary progressed Jupiter in Aries The progressed Sun cast it rays upon her evening at the at 18 degrees 38 minutes and retrograde natal Ascendant and everyone watching forms an exact trine aspect to the 10th was able to see her. The spotlight was Grammys® was just house of Career, Public Standing, and clearly upon her, especially as a newcom- as important as how Achievements & Honors in Sagittarius at 18 er. The other nominees previously listed degrees 23 minutes. This was a big win for were accomplished singers, especially Tina she sounded. Meeting her because of the category and, again, Turner who experienced her first hit with the expectations it was her first album. As previously stat- Ike Turner in 1960. ed, one with this placement of Jupiter Progressed Mars by declination is 8 of others can be retrograde in the first house wants to be degrees south 54 minutes and is parallel rigorous (Saturn). recognized for the progress made in life. to her natal Ascendant at 8 degrees south The completion of an artist’s first album is 25 minutes. The parallel is viewed as a progress. This helped set the bar for her conjunction. Progressed Mars imbued career expectations with Arista Records, her with the energy to be courageous and Transits her public standing with fans, radio sta- dynamic to sing live on stage. In all prob- Transiting Saturn in Sagittarius at 9 tions, and other female singers, and was ability, this is most likely how she wanted degrees 21 minutes is forming a separat- a significant achievement as a new artist. the audience to see her. Without question, ing sextile aspect to her natal Ascendant The competition was tight that night. she was able to overcome any nervousness. in Pisces at 8 degrees 24 minutes. The orb She won against, Pat Benatar, Madonna, is less than one degree. On this particular Linda Ronstadt, and Tina Turner. evening, she did sing “Saving All My Love Secondary progressed Saturn in for You” live on stage. The live audience and Aquarius at 18 degrees 22 minutes and The progressed those watching from home had an expec- retrograde forms an exact sextile to the tation that she would sing the song just like 10th house of career, public standing, Sun cast it rays upon it sounds on the radio. There was very little and achievements & honors in Sagittarius her natal Ascendant to no room for her to improvise and miss- at 18 degrees 23 minutes. According to ing a note was totally out of the question, Carbone (1984), one with Saturn retrograde and everyone not that she would do such a thing. How may demand much of oneself; placed in watching was able she looked to the public (Ascendant) that evening was just as important as how she the twelfth house one could be inspired to see her. The to work hard. Whitney’s self-discipline sounded. Meeting the expectations of oth- (Saturn) easily (sextile) paid-off (honors) spotlight was clearly ers can be rigorous (Saturn). with a significant boost to her career and upon her, especially Transiting Saturn in Sagittarius at public standing (10th house). Saturn 9 degrees 21 minutes is forming a sep- rewards discipline. Interestingly, like as a newcomer. arating square aspect to her natal Mars Whitney, cousin Dionne Warwick also has in Libra at 8 degrees 29 minutes. Mars Saturn retrograde in the natal chart. rules her 2nd house of Money, Values, and Possessions, which includes Talent. The orb is less than one degree. That evening, she showcased her talent and she sang the song with the same energy (Mars) like it NATAL CHART DECLINATIONS sounds on the radio. This was not a chal- lenge (sextile aspect) for Whitney even Sun 15 N 50 Mar 03 S 07 Nep 14 S 02 MNN 22 N 06 considering it was her first time singing Moo 01 N 54 Jup 06 N 16 Plu 19 N 41 MSN 22 S 06 at the Grammys®. With this energy, she Mer 07 N 52 Sat 15 S 59 Asc 08 S 25 engaged the audience in this social setting Ven 18 N 25 Ura 10 N 34 Mid 22 S 56 (Libra) and pleased them all. The transiting Sun in Pisces at 7 SECONDARY PROGRESSED DECLINATIONS degrees 15 minutes is forming an apply- ing conjunction to her natal Ascendant in Sun 08 N 26 Mar 08 S 54 Nep 14 S 10 MNN 22 N 16 Pisces at 8 degrees 24 minutes. The orb is 1 Moo 19 S 41 Jup 05 N 52 Plu 19 N 22 MSN 22 S 16 degree and 9 minutes. According to Hand Mer 04 S 38 Sat 16 S 31 Asc 17 S 44 (2001), one will feel as if they have received Ven 09 N 29 Ura 10 N 03 Mid 19 S 33 a new burst of energy and enthusiasm, which substantially renews confidence to

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the unemployment rate as metric on a mony or synchronicity with the planets MARTIN national, state, or local level. Second, above and economic conditions below. face the world and represents a new start consider if the industry for that vocation for the year like one’s actual birthday. On or career is new and in a growth phase As above, so below, as within, so with- the next day, the aspect would be closer or mature and declining. This will help out, as the Universe, so the Soul. to exact and she definitely would have had determine current and future demand - Hermes Trismegistus the experience described. for that type of work. Third, consider acquiring the required knowledge, skills, REFERENCES Vocational Astrology & and abilities, if they are needed. In some Carbone, L. (1984), Interpreting Your Retrograde Planets, Astro-Analytics Publications Electional Astrology instances, one may have to retool what Hand, R. (1997), Planets in Transit. Whitford Press Vocational Astrology and Electional they know, especially because of changing Astrology are two separate branches of Luntz, C. E. (1962), Vocational Guidance by Astrology, technology. Fourth, consider the value of Llewellyn Publications astrology. There are some instances in both professional and personal networks Rechter, C. L. (1976). Vocational Astrology, Lorigan which the two work well together. For to make connections to advance. Enterprises example, the latter can used to identify a favorable time to submit an application for Conclusion OMARI is a life member and certified profession- employment, to interview for the position, While Vocational Astrology identifies al astrologer with the American Federation of and when to resign from the position. If the profession (10th house), the type of Astrologers, life member of the Organization for given the opportunity to select a start date, work one may do (6th house), and income Professional Astrology, President of The Friends - of Astrology, Inc., and Board Chair of Kepler use Electional Astrology to make that deci potential relative to talent (2nd house), College. He is the owner of SOULAR WISDOM™ sion. When possible and practical, avoid it does not exist in a vacuum. The list of and ASTROPRENEURSHIP®. He has presented at any square aspects from the Moon. considerations can help shape your plan NORWAC, United Astrology Conference, OPA, for a new career. Progressions, transits, Indian Institute of Oriental Heritage, International and declinations can highlight windows Society of Astrological Research, the Astrological The Economy and the Labor Market Association and several chapters of NCGR. He has Vocational or career aspirations should of opportunity, possibly the direction and been a guest on KUBU 96.5 FM. Contact: omari@ be considered with other variables. First, duration of the opportunity as well. The soularwisdom.com assess labor market conditions using key is to take action when there is har- R

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page Astrologer OPA’s Quarterly Magazine 16 The Career Videos of OPA live presentationsV areI available We didn´t do much astrology for the remainder of the session. I´ve heard it said that the only profession that doesn´t slump Grief Consulting Skills during an economic crisis is astrology. Although astrology has entered the main- stream and continues to gain respect as a for Astrologers helping profession, I don´t think I´m wrong How to best support your when I say that some clients seek our help clients with their losses in when their circumstances overwhelm their these difficult times understanding. Sometimes people come to us for help when they don´t know what else to do, when they´re hoping for a miracle. by Magalí Morales, MSW Given the Coronavirus pandemic and the huge crises of our times, some of our clients are likely to have sustained many hen I think of how grief shows on the Saturn Return, the transits of mid- losses and be grieving. The loss of loved up in the astrologer´s consulting life, etc. If a client is anywhere in their late ones, of work and income, of our usual W room, I remember a session I had 20s or early 30s, we talk about their Saturn modes of socialization, and many freedoms with a 31-year-old woman from my yoga Return. When I mentioned the exact date we all used to take for granted. Parents are community I´ll call Sarah. of Sarah’s return, her jaw dropped. “That is grieving the loss of childcare and young When I first met Sarah, she had shared when Joe died,” she said, and broke down people the loss of in-person schooling. with me that her partner had died about a in sobs, “What does that mean? Did Saturn Grandparents are grieving the loss of touch year before. They´d had a remarkable rela- kill him? Do the stars hate me that much?” and contact with their families. tionship, they were both into theater and One glance at her bi-wheel showed What does an astrologer do with a acting, and had a riotous sense of humor. me that at the time of her Saturn Return, grieving client? We are not grief counselors They were playful and very close. “I felt like Sarah’s natal Sun was conjoined by Jupiter. and we don´t need to be, but we can learn Joe could read my thoughts,” Sarah said, There were all kinds of transits that we tend to respond with sensitivity and skill, as “He was closer to me than my skin. And to interpret as positive happening for her well as with discernment about which cli- then he died.” in the midst of her Saturnian struggle. I ents may need additional help from a grief I told her how sorry I was about her got the sense that there were mysterious, counselor, therapist or support group. great loss. Things like that shouldn´t hap- hidden gifts that would come to her from pen to people her age. I offered a hug, and this time in her life, but that was not the she cried in my embrace for a while. We moment to push on with my astrological developed a trusting relationship. When I insights. Sarah was heartbroken, truly Grief is a natural saw her at the yoga center and asked how wounded, by the unexpected loss of her she was doing, she´d tell me the truth. best friend, partner and soul mate. What and healthy human Then one day she came in for an was required was for me to sit patiently response to astrology reading. I love developmental with the profound pocket of grief that I had loss and change. astrology and have always placed emphasis inadvertently opened for Sarah. Grief is not depression.

What is grief? Full disclosure. I was a trauma-focused therapist for 15 years. My outlook is pri- marily humanistic. Although I view reality through an archetypal astrological lens, I also view it through the lens of trauma, attachment theory, family systems, and anti-oppression. This means that I am espe- cially biased against the pathologization of grief. I am opposed to the view that we must medicate, control, or eradicate grief. Grief is a natural and healthy human response to loss and change. Grief is not depression. Depression is a stagnant condi- tion, whereas grief moves and flows. Grief hurts, but it is not harmful. The only thing to do with grief is to let it be expressed. Melancholy, Odilon Redon

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Like a cup that is overflowing with the als in which we would create an altar and Ultimately, grief as a response to loss water of emotion, when we cry, we let out place on it small bundles of cloth containing catapults us into a process of change. We some of that water, creating spaciousness. objects that symbolized each of our many astrologers may be able to discern what The only way out is through. griefs. We got full permission to cry, weep kind of change is afoot by interpreting In times of loss, it is common for us to and wail, to be silent, to sleep, to be held. At a person’s chart and looking at current regress to earlier states of maturity and to the end we would bury the bundles, giving planetary influences. lean on older coping mechanisms. Crying them to the Earth as solemnly as if we were From the Evolutionary Astrology per- ourselves to sleep, or until we are calm is having a funeral for all of our losses, large spective, we can find a lesson even in the one of our oldest and best coping skills. and small, individual and collective. Dagara most painful of events. Saturn creates a The other is to be held and witnessed in Grief Rituals are radical contradictions to limitation or pressure. We can respond our pain. A mother will comfort her crying the ways we are socialized in mainstream by getting depressed or by enlisting our baby by slowing her breath and remain- culture to repress our true feelings, to fear self-discipline. Pluto takes away a part of ing calm, by making soothing sounds and falling apart when what we need is precisely our identity. We can respond by being holding the child until the emotion has to stop holding ourselves together. self-destructive or by mourning our old been expressed and they have returned to I believe one reason there is a mental identity and creating a new one. Uranus, center or balance. health epidemic in this culture is because especially if aided by Mars, can disrupt our When we witness another person’s people aren´t taught about grieving, which plans and create chaos. Resisting change grief or pain, we are imitating the posture in trauma theory we´ve discovered is one won´t help, only creative openness will. of that mother who remains calm and cen- of the main aspects of emotional healing. Chiron brings up wounds of our past for us to tered, unconditionally loving, trusting that If we could all have permission and heal or resolve them. We can feel victimized, the emotion will find resolution—at least room to fall apart, to miss work while being but the lesson is that our old coping strate- for now—if we allow it this safe and non- supported by our community, we would gies no longer work and we must adapt. judgmental space. Some grief is too great be a healthier society. In this article, rather than go deeper to find resolution in one instance of griev- into the astrology of grief, I offer you a tool- ing. A person may need to grieve for days, kit to help you make space for a client’s grief months or years. Some grief returns in full when it shows up in your consulting room. force during anniversary or when some- I believe one thing triggers its memory. But allowing a reason there is a ASTROLOGERS’ GRIEF TOOLKIT person a moment of grieving while wit- mental health nessed with unconditional positive regard Listen. The best thing you can do for a is a gift that always brings some relief. epidemic in this grieving client is to listen, listen, and listen In traditional cultures that acknowl- culture is because some more. Do not be in a hurry to return to edge grief publicly and have rituals about the brilliant astrological insights you have for this process, grieving individuals don´t people aren´t taught them. Do not jump into fix-it mode. There is struggle as much emotionally. For example, about grieving, which in incredible value in you bearing witness from in Mexico we celebrate the Day of the Dead trauma theory we´ve a nonjudgmental, unconditionally loving on the eve of November 2nd by placing stance. Speak only when you notice a shift photographs of departed family members discovered is one of in your client. If they are crying, look for with their favorite foods, as an invitation for the main aspects of the moment when they can breathe more their souls to come feast with us again. We deeply again or make eye contact. write Calaveritas, funny poems about dying, emotional healing. we eat sugar skulls with our own name on them, we create skeleton figurines that rep- resent the day to day activities of the living. Día de los Muertos is sad and soulful, but also full of hilarity, it is how we convey that death is just the soul playing peekaboo until the next incarnation. The Jewish tradition of mourning is equally rich. Cutting one’s hair, tearing one's clothing, reciting the Kaddish, sitting Shivah for seven days. I’ve never experienced these rituals, but it must be comforting to have a cultural prescription for times when we feel overwhelmed and stranded, a way to signal to our community that we are in that sacred state called mourning. Sobonfu Somé, a teacher of ritual from the Dagara tribe of Burkina Faso, taught me the most about grieving. She led grief ritu-

page Astrologer OPA’s Quarterly Magazine 18 The Career Videos of OPA live presentationsV areI available Offer empathy. I am so sorry. That is so lations, like survivors of sexual or relationship hard. Sounds incredibly painful. These simple violence, LGBTQI individuals, parents, etc. phrases go a long way in letting a client know that you believe them, you validate Any situation in Encourage self-care and healthy cop- their truth, you care. Do not utter empty which a grieving ing. What will you do in the next week to take platitudes. Some of these culturally com- care of yourself? This is a great question to mon phrases are hurtful, invalidating and person holds ask at the end of your session, to encourage toxic. Please no Everything happens for a negative self-beliefs the client to be kind to themselves. Coping reason. This too shall pass. If it´s not happy, including guilt, skills can be healthy, or not so healthy. it´s not the end. Crying is better than self-medicating. self-blame and shame, Talking to a trusted person is better than Reflect back. Ask questions. These could indicate the need isolating. If a client cannot come up with are ingredients of active listening, a pow- some healthy coping skills, you can help by erful tool of the helping professions. When for additional support. gently suggesting (remember you´re not you listen carefully, you can reflect back the “shoulding” on them) that they get good core of what you hear as a question. Don't food, good sleep, that they lean on people assume anything and allow your client to depression. Depression happens when we they trust, and engage in soothing activ- confirm or correct you. The purpose is to let cannot grieve and are stuck. As long as our ities. I call these “things we do with our them gain clarity about what they are really grief is being expressed in ways that don´t hands and feet”: cooking, crafting, writing, feeling. I'm hearing that you really miss your harm us or anyone else, it is not pathologi- walking, gardening, etc. mother. It sounds like you wish you'd done cal. That said, we need to… something different. I want to understand, Do your own work. We astrologers are do you feel ______? Listen for signs a client may need helping professionals, and subject to the additional support. There are signs and parallel process of dealing with our own Understand there are (nonlinear) behaviors that may indicate that a per- human condition, while helping clients stages of grief. Although there is some son needs additional help with grieving. deal with theirs. The better we take care controversy about the stages of grief as Traumatic grief happens when a loss is of ourselves, the higher the quality of our described by Elisabeth Kübler-Ross in her compounded with an event or events that services. I encourage you to process your 1969 book On Death and Dying, they are are shocking, unexpected, violent, which own grief and heal your own trauma. This a helpful guide. She identified that when overwhelm a person’s ability to cope. In will protect you from compassion fatigue, faced with a great loss, individuals tend- his book, Say Her Name, the Guatemalan- as well as make you aware of your own trig- ed to move through these stages before American writer Francisco Goldman gers and minimize the likelihood of them reaching acceptance of their loss: describes his own traumatic grief: his showing up in your client sessions. Learning Denial. The refusal to accept there has young and adored wife died in a surfing anti-oppression and improving your cul- been a loss. accident shortly after they got married, tural competence are avenues toward Anger. Anger at themselves, at others, and her family blamed him for her death, treating all clients with dignity, respect, a desire to find and blame whoever is guilty and at first, he almost believed them. Any kindness, and sensitivity, especially when for causing the loss. situation in which a grieving person holds they come from a different cultural/ethnic/ Bargaining. An illusory attempt at negative self-beliefs including guilt, self- socioeconomic background than your own. control. “If only I had/they had… then this blame and shame, could indicate the need Remember that the crises of our times have wouldn´t have happened.” for additional support. Other red flags are: shown us more starkly than ever the other Depression. Active Grieving. Falling rage accompanied by threats of violence; pandemics of racism, gender violence and apart. Feeling heartbroken and sad. Crying, suicidal talk and threats of self-harm; and poverty. In this unfair world, some people weeping, wailing. Not wanting to get out anything else that gives you the impres- have more losses and therefore more unre- of bed. Feeling that everything is hopeless sion that the client is not able to cope with solved grief than others. I invite you to join and useless and there is no future. Hitting their life circumstances. me in the commitment to end all forms of bottom and staying there as long as neces- oppression, including and especially racism. sary, until the natural upswing toward… Keep a list of professionals, agen- A better world begins with you. Acceptance. A state of integration, cies and groups to refer to. Remember when we can accept our losses, take stock not to assume anything or “should” on Magalí Morales MSW, is an evolutionary astrologer, of what we still have, and recover a sense your client. Ask, “Would you like more shamanic healer, writer, mom and climate activist who believes that in order to heal the world we need of future. support?” If the client says yes, offer a sug- to begin by healing ourselves. Healing begins at the Kübler-Ross’s great contribution is gestion from your list. I suggest you find individual level and continues when we work to heal that grief is a process. We all move through out information about psychotherapists our societies from oppression and violence and our these stages when faced with a great loss, (make sure you include therapists of color environment from climate chaos and extinction. and therapists or agencies who work with Magali has been using astrology to help people fall not in a linear, but cyclical way. Remember in love with their highest destiny for 15 years, as well grief can be triggered by anniversaries or low-income individuals); grief support as offering healings and deep spiritual counseling, strong reminders of what we lost. groups; self-help groups, including 12-step in English and Spanish, in person and in the virtual Most importantly, remember that recovery groups; suicide prevention space at: www.magalimorales.com actively grieving is not the same thing as hotlines; support groups for specific popu- R

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with Omari Martin, MAFM, LPMAFA, iNLP Professional Astrologer and Business Professor Consulting and Coaching Services Transits Electional Astrology and Natal Astrology Develop Business Strategy for Growth and Profits WITH RACHEL LANG Lifetime Member of AFA and OPA [email protected] 773.432.8308

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V30-02 JUNE SOLSTICE 2021 page 21 ASTROLOGY and DIVINATION

This is the soul’s nostalgia for the pri- mal experience, for the vitality and meaning WHY MAGIC, gained from our deep-rooted connection with spirit, nature, and natural powers. This is the unavoidable “archaic revival”1 that AND WHY NOW? seeks to reunite us with our innate poten- tials and the wisdom of our ancient ancestry. The Revival of This recurring trend is reflective of a deep longing for something we once knew Astrological Magic but is now forgotten, this is the collective amnesia and the strive for anamnesis, or by Michael Ofek “remembrance”. This recollection of the forgotten is our collective soul retrieval, it is the way we heal ourselves from the long “ We have lost the cosmos. The Sun the prevailing schools of its time, as well and arduous sojourn away from our real strengthens us no more, neither does the as the heritage of this archaic wisdom. home, and our deeply severed connection Moon[…]. Now we have to get back to the cos- with the cosmos. mos, and it can’t be done by a trick. The great The Revival of Ancient Wisdom Searching for wisdom and answers in range of responses that have fallen dead in us To grasp the significance of this reviv- our past, is not only a moving backwards in have to come to life again. It has taken two al, and to answer the questions raised in time, but an analogical movement inwards, thousand years to kill them. Who knows how this article, it is important to see this resur- or upwards, to our ontological source. It is long it will take to bring them to life?” gence as a part of a larger cycle. This cycle the search for our authentic identity, our ~ D.H. Lawrance, Apocalypse appears to recur through history every time spiritual origins, as well as our ideal embod- man is confronted by an anticipated exis- ied primordial state and connection to the n recent years there has been a great tential crisis, whenever his actions seem to natural kingdom. resurgence of interest in astrological lead him into a blind alley. It is my belief that the revival of astrol- Imagic. Magic practitioners, astrologers, In recent decades, many ancient forms ogy and astrological magic has a big part to and academic scholars have been grad- of knowledge and practice have been slow- play in this current wave of re-membering. ually rekindling the ancient art, and are ly revived and reintegrated. These, together As man seeks to reclaim his connection just beginning to grasp its importance in with new ways of seeing and understand- with the earth, imperative to his survival, the history and development of philoso- ing, such as through the modern lenses of he will also have to regain recognition of phy, religion, and science. psychological and scientific inquiry, have In the astrological community, this ushered novel perceptions and findings of was a direct follow-up to the fairly recent, age-old truths. It is this pollination from the and still ongoing, renaissance of ancient wisdom of the past into the present, which To grasp the traditional astrology. Since the late 20th gives us a renewed perspective about our significance of this Century we have witnessed its resurfac- inherent nature, the potential for our growth, ing through the cracks of time, through and a deeper understanding of reality. revival, and to answer translations of surviving texts, uncovering We are now at a very accelerated phase the questions raised ancient theory and practice and astrol- of this cyclic wave, as it crushes on the ogy’s various phases of development shores of our unfulfilling cultural structures. in this article, it is stretching over two millennia. We have The contrast of the pathological nature of important to see this learned to appreciate not only the depth our current world climate, whether social, resurgence as a part and richness of the original system, but political, economic or environmental, and also the underlying cosmological and phil- the intensely growing need to connect back of a larger cycle. osophical underpinnings, connecting it to to our origins has never been so great.

page Astrologer OPA’s Quarterly Magazine 22 The Career his connection with the sky, and appreciate intuit and mystical visionary experience, work- If things are to than a rational scientific description. These״ the reciprocal cooperation of both ing the miracle of one thing”2 within him revelatory intimations emphasize Insights and without. change, our gained from direct experience, ecstatic The oldest astrological roots are relationship to the inspirations, and participatory engage- embedded within a magical world-view. ment with these powers. This non-rational In a time and place where magic was world must change, (or meta-rational) direct experience, is the prevalent, and had many forms, techniques, and the recognition missing element of our art, which became and motivations. Oracular revelations, mysti- of our innate highly intellectual and conceptual, some- cal initiations, healer-priests and magicians, times forgetting the real sky upon which it mantics and shamans had a respected primordial connection grounds its interpretations. place in society, and were part of the to the beating To properly orient our understanding cultural landscape. This worldview was of what astrological magic is, or can be, and of a sentient and animistic cosmos, heart of the cosmos how integral a part it has to play to bring embedded in an ordered and intelligent must return. astrology alive, we must return to some of design. “All things are full of Gods”, said our basic assumptions as astrologers. Thales the first pre-socratic philosopher nature was sacred, the mountains, the Basic Assumptions of Astrology trees, the water streams, and of course and Magic the luminaries and stars, were all filled For us astrologers, For us astrologers, the correlation with spirit beings which could be inter- of heaven and earth is no theory, it is a the correlation of a cted with and maintained as deities fact proven by lifetimes of experience. and allies, and were invoked for guid- heaven and earth is The cosmos does not always yield to our ance, healing and protection. astrological models, owing to its intri- no theory, it is a fact This experience of the world is at the cate complexity and its ever-changing proven by lifetimes of heart of the magical perspective, and it inter-relationships. Regardless, we can still nurtures a very different relationship with experience. empirically witness the light of the cosmic the world than we have today, for which dance reflected in the world and in the nothing is sacred anymore and everything waters of our psyche. is viewed as a resource to be exploited, Seeing astrology work, serves as (6th Century BCE) expressing the general humans and animals included. If things are proof of an intelligent order and design, sentiment of his time. “All is full of soul”, to change, our relationship to the world connecting us to an animistic cosmic said Pimander3 to Hermes and Hermes must change, and the recognition of our ecology. This has revelatory repercus- to his disciples. innate primordial connection to the beat- sions for our individual and collective This sentiment of a living cosmos full ing heart of the cosmos must return. psyche, when contemplated seriously. of animating spirits, was shared by almost It is this cosmic perspective which It’s the conscious internalization and all ancient cultures around the world. gave birth to astrology and magic, before experience of this intimate connection, The more we go back in it became overly rationalized and once again, which is fundamental if we time, the more the expe- distant from direct experi- are to confront our modern pathologies. rience of earth and sky ence. Before the dawn of This principle of correlation and corre- was alive and inter- the first millennium, spondence, replicated from the whole to its acted with rever- astrological texts parts, serves as the most basic assumption ence and respect. were still written of our art. Through it astrology demon- For many of the in verse, poetic strates the interconnectedness of our ancient pagan and obscure, world, the cosmic sympathy underlying the and shamanic relating to a structure of our reality. One cannot accept cultures more inspired astrology without accepting at least a ver- sion of this basic idea, which implies that the same generating principles function on all levels and scales of being, and that we can deduce correlations from one level or scale on to the other. This holistic Micro-Macro, Above- Below, Inner-Outer view of the cosmos and its parts, is of course the premise for individual natal astrology - man is a micro- cosmos, or a ‘little world’, created in the image of the macrocosmos - in the uni- versal sense as well as in the particular, as reflected in the individual birth chart.

V30-02 JUNE SOLSTICE 2021 page 23 ASTROLOGY and DIVINATION OFEK us if we know how to listen, and it listens to According to Hermetic philosophy, us if we know how to speak. Man is the most suited of all terrestrial creatures to mirror the cosmos, and has “They marvelled at seeing those things The correspondence within his individual being all cosmic levels which come last in those which come first, of man and cosmos, (hypostases) of creation, from the subtle and vice-versa; earthly things in the heavens on all its levels, is the spiritual essence to the dense bodily frame in a causal and celestial manner, and heav- of flesh and bones. enly things on the earth in a terrestrial way.” axis which allows The famous magical text “The Picatrix” ~ Proclus - On the Hieratic Art for the human spends a whole chapter4 articulating man’s supreme correlation with the cosmos, This correspondence of man and cos- act of magic. which gives him his unique place in bridg- mos, on all its levels, is the axis which allows ing spirit and matter and heaven and earth. for the human act of magic. Additionally, it is Man is considered a vital link in the chain the knowledge of these chains of correspon- materials, shapes, colors, sounds, smells, of being, downscaling the creative powers dence within the soul and the kingdoms of numerical and geometric proportions, and of the cosmos, able to perceive, understand nature (minerals, plants, animals etc.) which corresponding Imagery. and affect mind and matter. the magician utilizes to draw and amplify Drawing on, aligning or participating Based on this fundamental correlation, certain creative powers. in a certain planetary chain, is achieved we are at any given moment “breathing by a right attunement to its intrinsic tone, together”5 with the cosmos. Thus, the The Talismanic Process ideally at the times when the planet’s moving powers in heaven, as in earth, The philosophical and practical prin- ‘essential power’ (dignity) is fully man- move within us always, seamlessly, both ciples of Talisman making holds many keys ifested in the cosmos, under the right within and without. They sustain and ani- for the intentional use of correspondences, astrological election. mate our being, compelling us to express for engagement and participation with This attunement or harmonization, is them in a variety of ways and align to the astrological powers. I will try to elucidate done through planetary correspondences cosmic flux, just as the Sun compels us to some of these here. and mimesis (imitations) which serve as awaken each morning. All of the magical operations are based ‘receptacles’ of its essence. Adding to this foundational concept on these invisible sympathetic links or chains Talismanic theory emphasizes the need of astrology, astrological magic assumes (greek - seirá), which connect the planetary to align - the magician, place/atmosphere, that man and his unique stature as bear- Noetic or formal sources (sometimes called actions/creations, materials, images etc, and ing the cosmic image, and therefore “seminal reasons”) to their manifestation the astrological timing - under the same potentially the creative powers of the through a hierarchy of animating powers, planetary chain, the more levels/dimensions cosmos, does not passively reflect the expressed in different levels and scales. of correspondence the better. This is done in Macro, but can consciously participate, These links chain the world from with- order to maximize the planetary resonance, engage and willfully act and create in and without, horizontally and vertically, stand in its light, receive its virtues, and within it. Magic reminds us that because from the subtle to the dense, and from increase its potency and charge in the talis- the cosmos is alive and co-responsive, it is purer to mixed, as powers in the psyche man, which is created under it. therefore interactive. It is truly speaking to as well in bodies, natural elements and

Images: Ka-Gold https://www.ka-gold-jewelry.com/ page Astrologer OPA’s Quarterly Magazine 24 The Career This may be done for a general aug- Taking these basic ideas in mind, we This is done through the knowledge of mentation of the planetary essence, or can derive many ways of participation astrology in sync with empirical experience. for the fulfillment of a specific corre- with the astrological powers, as we create Participation is not only in the doing, sponding aim. corresponding circumstances in our lives, it is also, and foremost, in the being, it is in One of the chief conceptual models of internally and externally, to act as mimetic learning to become the receptacle, developing the talismanic process is based on the idea receptacles for the planetary power. the conscious awareness and recognition of of light or ‘stellar rays’6, describing the phe- For instance, we can make plans for the living powers moving within and without, nomenon of astral light radiated from the activities proper to the planetary significa- witnessing their inner cycles without an agen- heavenly bodies. These rays are inherent tion, engaging in corresponding undertak- da, or specific aim or desire. in their earthly corresponding elements, ing in the proper times (either for a general Informed by astrological awareness, symbols and Images, which can be used election, or an individual transit). We can this is the conscious letting go into the cos- to draw and concentrate their potency, also animate corresponding images in our mic flow, receiving its intelligent guidance, under the right astrological timing. This minds in meditation. Using our intention observing its changing states and internal astral light (which has many levels) is said with vivid imagination is a very powerful coloring of thoughts, emotions and ener- to be the pneumatic rarefied fire of life, internal receptacle for resonating with a getic movement in the body. Experientially the etheric energy, the spiritus mundi, that planetary potency, more so if we awaken sampling the different cosmic chords as charges the cosmos with life and breath. In a corresponding state of being through a they appear without resistance, slowly our modern terms, this is the multi spectral recollection of emotional memory. paves the way to harmoniously tuning electro-magnetic radiation, which is the one’s state of being with them, and to final- field animating and sustaining all life, hold- ly know how to actively play or transform ing the nucleus of our atoms in place. them when needed. In its more biological manifestation, this To simplify the is the electricity that charges our nervous understanding of the Reclaiming our Magical Tradition system and bodies, it is the secret fire, the Qi, or Prana that electrifies life into our flesh. talismanic process, “The ancient philosophers seem to have This is not an abstraction, it is a very real some authors make brought all their scrutiny to bear on making energy, which interacts with matter in very a division of active their life, above all, agree with the heavens.” real ways. For the theurgist, this is the astral ~ Marsilio Ficino - Da Vita or etherial body or ochema-pneuma which is spiritual forces and made of the same essence as the stars. passive material In its essence, astrological magic is Other cosmologies put more the art of aligning oneself with the cos- emphasis on the hierarchy of spirits receptacles, following mos. It is the recognition of our vital inborn or daimons, which are invoked to help the Aristotelian connection with the heavenly bodies, and realize the magic, or ensoul the object. the conscious participation in their creative In my view, one model does not concept of powers and cycles. exclude the other, and as light holds within Hylomorphism The corpus of astrological magic is it all potential for life, it holds and animates (matter and form). deep and intricate, connecting many dis- many levels of being/spirits within it, man- ciplines and amalgamating a variety of ifesting through it, and alongside it (like ancient natural and metaphysical philos- us humans). The term daimon (spirit) in ophies and cosmologies. With these, it the Hermetica is explained as a ‘power at One can express the planetary state strives to explain the underpinnings of the work’ or ‘manifestation’, which in greek is and amplify it through trance inducing creative process which astrology describes, Energia, the source of our word energy. So, bodily movement, dancing, qigong and through elaborated descriptions of whether the invisible vivifying agent is a postures, singing/humming, breath- talisman creations, planetary rituals and sort of light, or spiritual energy, or a type of ing exercises, shamanic drumming and astrological elections, it teaches the prin- individual spirit which is akin to a planetary journeying and a like. One can make ciples of alignment and interaction with essence, it is still a living agent emanating atmospheric changes, light, color, smell astrological powers. its unique occult virtues. (incense), music, symbolic objects, drawing Astrological magic in general, and tal- To simplify the understanding of the corresponding symbols and images, create isman making in particular, was considered talismanic process, some authors make a corresponding artwork, or just write down by many ancient authorities as the culmina- division of active spiritual forces and pas- his intentions. One can eat corresponding tion of all ancient knowledge8. sive material receptacles, following the foods, wear corresponding clothes, metals Aristotelian concept of Hylomorphism or gems, or create/engrave and consecrate Consideration of Ethical Uses (matter and form). them as talismans under the elected times. Most of the magical texts that have The form is the essence of a thing, it is All of these and more can serve to survived are full of recipes for obtaining its soul7, and matter its body. Fashioning initiate and draw the wanted essences, man’s burning desires for power, wealth, a Talisman is conceptualized as fusing strumming the wanted string in the cosmic sex, and the like, with a fair share of reci- soul and body - the active formal agent harp. But in order to really learn to play it, pes for cursing and manipulating others (light/spirit) to the passive material one should first learn how to hear its music. - although, the underlying principles, philo- receptacle. sophical descriptions, and certain initiatory

V30-02 JUNE SOLSTICE 2021 page 25 ASTROLOGY and DIVINATION OFEK moderating/mitigating their extremes, health, we know that our whole bodily rituals, still carry the essential aspiration of alchemizing their virtues from their grosser system and its internal cycles and clocks cosmic alignment, an aspiration which is a aspects to their most subtle tinctures. are connected to natural cycles, the most remnant of its more ancient sources. It is the Theurgic strive for the unifi- pronounced of which are the cycles of the A consideration of ethical uses does cation with the ‘gods’, or monadic creative day, the lunations and the seasons. For not invalidate desire-based magic, although principles, and the platonic/neo-platonic instance, the circadian rhythm of the body I do condemn its illicit forms. We all desire quest for perceiving the Noetic realm, and is connected to the day and night, light and to experience certain things and aspire to ultimately achieving henosis - oneness, or dark cycle, which regulates our cortisol and improve and enjoy our lives, but it should union with the one. melatonin hormonal cycle. The more we not under any circumstance be at the In his dialog the “Timaeus”, Plato are in connection and alignment with natu- expense or manipulation of other people. tells us that when we enter the body, as ral light and its cycles the better our energy I do, however, feel that the real rewards a young soul, we do not control the push is balanced, our sleep is deep and rejuve- of this art, which does not exclude mun- and pull of the powers working in nature nating, and our health maintained. This of dane needs and desires, is in bringing and through our body. It takes time and course, is also true for our mental and emo- its essence into our lives, its potential to tional balance and well-being. awaken us to the power and vitality of In simple terms - alignment means interacting with the beating pulses of our health, misalignment disease. universe. Additionally, its remedial applica- The overarching So, just as our bodily health depends tions and potential use in different kinds of on concurring with natural cycles, our soul healing, is proving to be very promising. theme of cosmic depends on its internal recognition and alignment, or alignment with corresponding powers and Before judging astrological magic cycles in the cosmic soul. And, although on the surface of its auxiliary proce- re-alignment, this might not be in agreement with some dures, one should recall that astrological reflects a deep of the ancient philosophical schools, who magic in its conception was largely spiritual longing for a preach that we must ascend the body and practiced as a stellar religion. It was a turn away from the senses, it is my convic- way to connect with the gods, draw and harmonization and tion that it is only through nature that we participate with their power on earth and/ unification with fully express our astral self, bridge heaven or ascend to the stars (a belief that was and earth, and embody the gods in the prevalent in Egyptian and Mesopotamian higher ordering world, in our mind, soul and body. cultures). This was the re-claiming of one’s creative powers, If nature is an image of the noetic ‘godly’ aspects, becoming a stellar man, a manifesting through realms, if the gods are in everything, then perfected man. the more we consciously enter nature the The overarching theme of cosmic the movement of the deeper we see into its essence, its source, alignment, or re-alignment, reflects a deep heavenly bodies. its roots. The more we expand to recog- spiritual longing for a harmonization and nize the waves of cosmic radiation through unification with higher ordering creative nature, the more subtly we can move with powers, manifesting through the move- them. The more we learn to listen and tune ment of the heavenly bodies. experience to set the cycles of the pow- ourselves to the cosmic music, the more This is a longing shared by many ers in harmony, and the only way to do it we are actively held together in coherence, ancient cultures around the globe, is by syncing the internal cycles with the elevating the planetary functions in us and expressed in a variety of ways in social and large cosmic ones, (each one according to remediating our weaknesses. religious structures, as well as the in the his own cosmic reflection or natal chart). The more we become the image of the architectural structures, aligning and mim- The soul does this by also differenti- cosmos, through our own cosmic image, icking the heavens. ating ‘same and other’, seeing the unity, (our chart) the more we reflect its intel- the sameness in everything, by uniting its ligence and rise to our ideal place and “Do you not know, Asclepius, that Egypt is an same with the cosmic same. It is absorbed function within it. image of heaven” in a higher ordering creative power, mov- This is the “participation mystique” ~ Asclepius, Corpus Hermeticum ing with the will of the demiurge, tuning with the cosmos, and our way to become in to the powers, and gaining their ratio- more than our ego-bound selves, as This longing is at the heart of the ancient nal guidance. we are raised to our higher potential as western philosophical and mystery schools. This is the aspiration to become what co-creators of our reality. Having the cos- It is the Hermetic model for perfecting the we are in potential - an image of the cos- mos as our ally, and moving our soul and soul, aspired by astral priests and advents. mos, to consciously embody its powers body in agreement and harmony with the The famous ascension through the spheres and aspire to move in concord with them, powers and creative cycles of nature, is of the planets, was the underlying moti- disentangling their incoherencies in our the deepest healing act we can aspire to vation reflected in many astral magical soul, striving to perfect them through us, for our being in the world. This is the ulti- rituals (for instance the ritual of ‘perfect and us through them. mate magical power available to us, and nature’) and alchemical symbolism. It was Taking the concrete example of our soul-given right. a framework for working with the plane- our bodies, and the maintenance of our tary powers, connecting to their essence, page Astrologer OPA’s Quarterly Magazine 26 The Career It is from this view that astrological It is my belief that through the expe- 6 This theory was implicit in ancient sources but was magic becomes an Initiatory path, it is the rience and development of this unique thoroughly articulated in the 9th century philoso- path to reclaim the stellar and planetary form of magical and spiritual work, we may pher Al-Kindi’s seminal work “De radiis” (on rays) 7 For Aristotle the unique formal essence of a living powers dormant in the soul, and par- breathe life back into our perception of the thing is its soul. Although in Neo-platonic philos- ticipate in their creative intentions. This cosmos and realize our own cosmic roots, ophy the Noetic Form is a higher Hypostases then places astrological magic as a spiritual further revealing this deep primordial truth the Soul/Psyche, and dwells within it as directing its path, tailored into the astrological cosmos. of our being and the inter-connectedness animation. In many ways this is the Magnum Opus of all things. 8 According to the Picatrix, Thabit ibn Qurra, Pico della Mirandola and others, the Mage should of Astrology, and the path laid out by the This revitalization of our cosmic con- be learned in all primary teachings, such as the philosopher-astrologers of the past. nection may help orient us for the healing seven liberal arts (including Astrology/Astronomy), In conclusion, astrology shows the of our individual and collective soul, and Philosophy and Theology. way to regain the animistic experience and pave the way for a deeper understanding of, Michael Ofek is a professional astrologer, phi- helps guide us out of our individual and and engagement with, the living cosmos. losopher and teacher from Israel. He has been collective ignorance of the powers that This is in fact, the great promise of practicing and researching the traditional lineage shape our lives, but it is the magical aspect astrological magic and the reason why it is of astrology, with an emphasis on Hellenistic of astrology that teaches us how to coop- so important for our time. Astrology and its connection with Greco-Egyptian erate with these powers, navigate their Cosmology, Philosophy and Magic. His passion lies in unveiling and reconstructing the conceptual currents, and create with their aid. REFERENCES 1 A term coined by Terence Mckenna, mostly with roots of the tradition and the reintegration of these Astrology is the manual of the cosmic connection to the the revival of Psychedelics ancient arts. Michael is an international speaker interface, magic is the conscious interac- 2 From the famous ‘Emerald Tablet’ Attributed to and gives workshops and lectures worldwide. He tion and navigation within this interface, to Hermes Trismegistus. is also the Co-founder of the Israeli professional astrology magazine “Urania”, which also produc- advance and improve one’s state of being. 3 Also known as Poemandres, Poemander is the first tractate in the Corpus Hermeticum. Pimander is a es yearly conferences and workshops. Contact Astrology gives us the map, literally, but it personification of Nous or cosmic Mind the first Michael: [email protected] is astrological magic that teaches us how to 4 Book 3, Chapter 6. R walk the territory. 5 Quoting the Neo-Platonic philosopher Plotinus (205–270 A.D)

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or study. Saturn’s finger describes the soul’s yearning for wisdom, philosophical thinking, tendencies towards melancholy and brood- ing, research skills and sense of humor. The ring finger is the Sun focused on Palmistry as a ego, artistic expression, reputation and affairs of the heart. That’s why we put a ring on the Sun finger to signify the heart Divination Tool is held or taken. The Sun finger indicates creative abilities, fun, risk taking, gambling by Anne C. Ortelee and spending. Mercury rules the Pinky and takes care of money, business and family. Crooked Mercury? Watch out the person might be crooked. Mercury describes problem solving abilities, cleverness with money, knowledge our Palm is God’s road map to your held fingers makes for a controlled person. of human nature, level of intelligence as Soul”, said my Palmistry Teacher, And once the hand or the person knows well as whether it is hidden or not. Like our “Y Ellen Goldberg during an intro- you are observing their hand, it frequently astrology chart, the fingers tell the story! ductory lecture. changes to show you a different story. Palmists look at the shape of the fingers Following her lecture, I went up to The seven archetypes used in astrolo- to see who works with who? Do they lean compliment her on the quality of infor- gy pertain to the hand. Each of the seven mation conveyed. She said “Stick ‘em up!”. visible planets are located in the hand. So, I raised my hands!! Ellen made a few By knowing astrology, you already know Each of the seven amazing and very pithy observations from palmistry! a four second observance. I was hooked!! The Fingers of the Hand represent four visible planets are I formally signed up and studied Palmistry Planets. The index finger is Jupiter ruling located in the hand. with Ellen for over seven years. I’ve worked pride, career, ambition, and faith. Jupiter By knowing with the science and art of chiromancy vir- talks about how bossy you are, indicates tually every day since I met Ellen. leadership abilities, desire to be in charge astrology, you already Each of us has unique hands. They are as well as the ability to plan one’s career know palmistry! as unique as our astrological chart. Perhaps and know the next steps to take. our hands are MORE unique existing as Tall Man or the middle finger is Saturn portable charts tied to our physical body! who takes care of finances, security, work Our hands reflect where we are in time and space as well as our physical, mental, spir- itual and emotional evolution during the course of our life. Our hands show our sen- sitivities, our blocks, our skills, our talents, where we shine, where we fall down as well as how we relate and work with the world. Ellen reads your astrology chart and asks to see your hands to check how you are evolv- ing and choices made at crossroads. J. Edgar Hoover mandated the FBI train Police Departments using one small part of a hand. The FBI installed fingerprinting across the nation when he realized crim- inals left their fingerprints behind at the crime scene. When you observe someone’s hands, you can learn an enormous amount about them. First up, you observe the consistency of the hand ~ flabby, soft, elastic and hard ~ to determine the nature of the person’s energy and vitality. Next, you pay attention to the rigidity of the hand and how it holds itself to see what the hand tells. Fingers spread wide; the person is open. Tightly

page Astrologer OPA’s Quarterly Magazine 28 The Career together? Are they separate? How deep from your intuition. The Moon part of the are the fingers set? Who is bent? Who is hand reports on health matters too~ cuts solid? Hold the fingers together and see in the moon from lines can indicate ill- gaps between them indicates money flows Fingertips have nesses as well as the severity. The Moon is through the person freely. Whom is taller shapes which can vary divided into three parts, similar to the pha- than who? How thick or thin are they? How from finger to finger. langes in the fingers. The upper part talks flexible? How stiff? Bent? How hairy? Any about stomach and intestinal difficulties. unusual bends or waists? Smooth versus If the finger tips are The middle part talks about bones, joints knotty? What is going on with the knuckles? the same shape, that and arthritis. The lower part covers repro- Thick or thin? All those questions provide ductive organs, kidneys and bladder. information about the person. represents a Venus rules the section of the palm The size of the phalanges, the parts of consistency in the under the Thumb. It is actually the third the fingers relative to the other parts, can person. Usually, phalange of the thumb. Venus can be vary from finger to finger. Each finger has smooth or grilled (covered with lines). The three worlds. The first phalange ~ top of fingertips are mixed grilled Venus acts as a sexual magnet, pas- the finger ~ shows the mental world. The which makes sense as sionate, desirous and attractive to others. middle phalange shows the practical world. Smooth mounds of Venus’s tend towards The third phalange, attached to the hand, most of us are a highly romantic ideals with a sense of shows the physical and sensual world. All mix of energy. esthetics, music, sentimentality. They are those details are easily observed by looking warm and charming but not deeply sexual. at their hand. Mars rules the entire plain of the hand A friend who reads palms chose her have more resistance to the life force and under the Fingers ~ Aggressive Mars is surgeon based on the hair on his hands ~ want to do things their own way. Spatulate between the Thumb and index finger ~ a it indicates attention to detail, the ability fingertips ~ which DO look like spatulas big mound there makes for a potentially to concentrate, strength as well as stamina. ~ are active, practical, enthusiastic, origi- violent or aggressive nature while the The hairs on his fingers indicated his ability nal, inventive, enterprising, idiosyncratic, area between Pinky and the Moon is the to concentrate for long periods of time. independent and obstinate. Square fin- refined nature of Mars ~ assertive, direct, Unfortunately, Mercurial people often ger tips are practical. Their fingers are gets things done in a strategic manner. The shave or wax their hands so sometimes methodical, precise, orderly, comforted entire plain between the two edges of Mars that helpful hair indicator is removed!! by routine, resistant to change and per- describes energy, anger, directness, temper Dr Spock on Star Trek “invented” the fectionist. Conic fingertips are intuitive, and sexuality. Mar’s relates to each location Vulcan greeting of the V where the Index/ receptive, impressionable, idealistic, heart or mount where the finger attaches to the Middle and Ring/Pinky fingers are joined centered, sympathetic, creative and love hand. The size, shape and lines on those but separated from each other. Leonard beauty. Pointed fingertips are psychic, areas tell a story too about how the planet Nimoy told a story that as a young boy intuitive, receptive, sensitive, inspirational, takes action in the world. his father told him to close his eyes but impractical, spiritual, connected, idealistic, Once in a diner, I was reading a friend’s he peeked during a Jewish ritual invoking love beauty. The pointed fingers tend to palm when a man overhearing our con- Shekhina, the feminine aspect of God. He be dreamers and wish for the moon. If a versation came over and asked me to look observed the Rabbis’ using the now famous fingertip seems difficult to classify, it CAN at his hand. He had a huge deeply grilled Vulcan hand gesture to call Shekhina into have one shape on one side and a different Mound of Venus and an enormous Plain of the service. The split fingered gesture of one on the other. Blend the interpretation Mars ~ to this day they were the biggest I the greeting entranced him. He learned to for the planet/finger/ archetype to include have ever seen! After he left the diner, the do it because it felt magical. When Gene both shapes to describe the attributes. Roddenbery, the creator of Star Trek, was One of my personal favorites is “sen- looking for a Vulcan Greeting, similar to sitivity pads”. Turn your hand so you can Mars rules the entire the handshake humans use, Nimoy sug- look at it from the side. Notice if there are gested the V shape. Leonard Nimoy had any “bubbles” or pads on your fingertips. plain of the hand Jupiter and Saturn forming a t-square to Sometimes they look like droplets of water. under the Fingers. Sun / Mercury conjoined tightly in his Sensitivity pads amplify the five senses. The entire plain astrological chart ~ so the symbolism of Under extreme stress, the pads can actually the planets in his astrology chart matched swell! And if they appear on a finger, they between the two the Vulcan greeting! heighten the finger’s sensitivity in the fin- edges of Mars Fingertips have shapes which can vary ger’s areas. You can have them on multiple from finger to finger. If the finger tips are fingers or just one. describes the same shape, that represents a consis- The Moon is located at the bottom of energy, anger, tency in the person. Usually, fingertips are the hand under Pinky finger near the wrist. directness, temper mixed which makes sense as most of us When Moon turns red or a deeper pink are a mix of energy. Tapered fingers let the than usual, that is called a psychic blush. and sexuality. life force flow easily while broad finger tips It indicates you are receiving information

V30-02 JUNE SOLSTICE 2021 page 29 ASTROLOGY and DIVINATION KARACOSTAS and the reality by comparing your hands ~ improve her health. As a result, her life line waitress informed me he played for the recessive hand for promise and dominant “healed”. Her life line is now connected, New York Knicks Basketball Team. That hand for current reality. unbroken, deep and solid reflecting the enormous Mars brought him wins on the The lines have various marks, inter- new choices she made in her life. It is back Basketball court and oodles of Venus with ruptions, indents, islands, breaks and cuts to matching the deep, solid, unbroken line his highly grilled mound of Venus ~ both in in them that indicate all sorts of events, promised in her life line. dollars and women. changes and shifts in fortune. Depending Similar to the astrology chart’s first The Thumb represents will ~ big on where the marks occur on the line, breath capturing the moment of life, babies thumb, big will. Wiggle your thumb if you are born with their hands closed. At their are trying to muster up some courage! first breath, the hands open to receive and One of my student’s sisters had an enor- The lines have various reveal the life force as it flows through spirit into their being. mous club shaped thumb which is actually marks, interruptions, called a “murder’s thumb”. Her sister had Our hands change over time. As they a volcanic, erupting temper and was indents, islands, breaks change, they mark the evolution of our soul physically abusive to her when they were and cuts in them that and the impact that our mind has on our children. There could be a whole book consciousness. Hopefully, this brief intro- written just on the thumb and how import- indicate all sorts of duction to the divinatory nature of the hand ant its shape, size, features, flexibility, and events, changes and intrigues you to learn Palmistry and add it to your skill set. I promise you won’t be disap- indicated skills are to describe how one shifts in fortune moves through the world. pointed at what hands around you reveal! Palms have lines in them. The lines My teacher Ellen Goldberg’s book, “The are very helpful with predictive matters. Art and Science of Hand Reading: Classical The lines describe various areas of your you can pinpoint the age of the event Methods for Self-Discovery through existence: life, head, heart, influence, described. By knowing the line’s function, Palmistry” is a wonderful place to start to Saturn, Sun, Mars and Mercury. There are you can talk about the area of life affect- explore the magic of Palmistry. minor lines too ~ Ring of Solomon, Ring of ed. When the marks occur at a particular REFERENCE Saturn, mystic cross, Via Lascivia, children, age, you can be as confident of predicting events as you are with an astrology transit. https://www.amazon.com/Art-Science-Hand- Girdle of Venus, intuition, rascettes, travel Reading-Self-Discovery/dp/162055108X and affection. Each line has ages. You can A friend had a long life promised but see the age when changes, new things wasn’t taking very good care of her health, Anne Ortelee is a certified Palmist from the School arrive, illness, accidents or health events as signified by her very broken-up life line of Oracles as well as a certified astrologer by OPA, with separate “islands”. I pointed out the ISAR-CAP, NCGR-PAA Level 3 and PMAFA. Her web- will take place. The lines show difficult site is AnneOrtelee.com. times, when you will fall in love as well as differences in the lines in her two hands when your heart will be broken. The lines to her. She made conscious changes to R describe the approximate length of your life as well as how you are taking care of your health. You can see both the promise

Palm lines describe various areas of your existence: life, head, heart, life, influence, Saturn, Sun, Mars and Mercury. Each line has ages. You can see the age when changes, new things arrive, illness, accidents or health events will take place.

page Astrologer OPA’s Quarterly Magazine 30 The Career V30-02 JUNE SOLSTICE 2021 page 31 Endnotes

ASTROLOGY and DIVINATION quently turned into an empire of publishing and personal power workshops is debatable, but Don Juan’s approach was certainly con- sistent with that of the archetypal shaman. Astrologers in a Pay attention to the world around you, and listen to what it’s saying. My formal studies with the (British) World of Omens Faculty of Astrological Studies were almost 100% astrology. Admittedly, the curriculum by Alan Annand included astronomy, history and psycholo- gy, but merely to support astrology as the only tool to address the concerns of clients. As for the techniques themselves, the vast majority was dedicated to natal astrolo- s astrologers, whose very job title hadn’t received a proper education in the gy, with the remainder divided between implies that we are interpreters of mantic arts. electional and horary work. In hindsight, A planetary patterns in the sky, it’s When I first embarked on my astrolog- I wish there’d been more focus on horary, easy to forget that we live in a world of ical studies, I had approached the subject whose utility is often overlooked, but so it constantly-changing omens, of which the from a somewhat “shamanistic” point of goes. Alternative correspondence courses planets are merely one set of elements. In view. I’d been reading Carlos Castaneda’s of the day, from the American Federation effect, we wear blinders like a horse on a books about his adventures with a Yaqui sor- of Astrologers and the National Council of road to somewhere, focused on our desti- cerer in the Sonora desert, and was struck by Geocosmic Research, offered curricula that nation, oblivious to any distractions along Don Juan’s intuitive approach to life, as an were very similar. But after two years of cor- the way. But in being so single-minded, do observer and interpreter of a natural envi- respondence studies, and a year’s residency we ignore other non-astrological signs along ronment that included animals, birds, rep- in England that culminated in 16 hours’ the road that might substantiate, modify or tiles, weather, etc. Indeed, Don Juan often worth of exams, I earned my diploma. even disqualify the judgment arrived at by talked about omens, and said that, when the Returning to Canada, I established a astrology alone? spirits had something to communicate to a practice in Montreal and began teaching It’s instructive to compare the per- sorcerer, they’d manifest as three separate intermediate and advanced astrology to ceived role of astrologers in the West versus and distinct signs. Now, whether or not Don an active local community. At the same India. Imagine you’re at a party in America, Juan was a real person or merely an avatar time, I began exploring other tools to where the typical get-acquainted chat of Castaneda’s invention which he subse- complement my astrological expertise. invokes that universal conversation-starter, During university, I’d learned that Swiss “So, what do you do for a living?” When you psychologist Carl Jung had been support- say you’re an astrologer, there’s sometimes It’s instructive to ive of both astrology and the I Ching, the an awkward pause where the other person compare the perceived Chinese oracular system whose casting gives you that look, wondering perhaps role of astrologers in of sticks had been simplified via the use if you’re a kook who should be left alone of three coins. Since I still had Richard rather than provoked. But after a moment, the West versus India. Wilhelm’s Book of Changes (including a their next line is often, “So, can you guess foreword by Jung) with its interpretations my sign?” And there you are, stuck in sun sign territory, where there are no winners, and in lieu of a better option, you excuse yourself to refill your drink. Now imagine another social occasion, this time in India. When you announce you’re an astrologer, your counterpart beams with delight, nods in respect, and displays their hands to say, “Tell me what you see.” That’s because, to the Indian mind, calling yourself an astrologer is tantamount to saying you’re a seer, and a properly-educated practitioner natural- ly knows more than just one divinatory science. To confess that you know only astrology – absent any acquaintance with palmistry, ayurveda (the science of health), vastu (the Indian equivalent to feng shui), numerology, or nimitta (omens) – would elicit disappointment in the typ- ical Indian, who’d be dismayed that you page Astrologer OPA’s Quarterly Magazine 32 The Career of the 64 different combinations, I started es via its system of planetary periods. And One story recounted Mantriji’s atten- using it in client readings that required since Jyotish was reputed to be a powerful dance at some dinner in Toronto’s large “thinking outside the box.” predictive tool, I began my astrological Indian community. On the way there, A decade later, while still providing education all over again. Mantriji had asked Hart, what do you think full-blown consultations from my home I attended a conference in San Diego they’ll serve for dessert? Hart had shrugged office, I also began spending two after- hosted by the American Council of Vedic and said, who knows, probably laddu or noons a week giving “quickie” astrological Astrology, where I was exposed to a whole gulab jamun, two popular Indian treats. readings for walk-in clients at a downtown new world of techniques. While chatting But Mantriji said, think of what’s in the sky esoteric bookstore. This turned out to be with other attendees, a number of them said, right now. As it turned out, the Moon and good practice for reading horary charts, “Oh, you’re from Canada? Then you must Mars were in Cancer and, because of that, because walk-in clients typically just want- Mantriji said, their hosts would serve khir (a ed an answer to one burning question, as pudding made from boiled milk) but that it opposed to an overview of their life. And would be burned. Indeed, after dinner the for that focused need, a horary chart is I knew that the khir was served, and when Mantriji tasted often preferable to a natal chart. fundamental reason it, he said to the hostess, you had an argu- During my time at the bookstore, I ment in the kitchen this afternoon, didn’t met several Tarot card readers who worked people came to an you? To which the hostess confessed that, the “shifts” before or after me. Although astrologer was to during a heated exchange with her hus- I’d previously explored the Tarot out of band, she’d neglected to stir the khir as it personal curiosity, and had purchased the know the future. boiled, and had scorched it a little. Aleister Crowley deck with its astrologi- And although I had Later, another guest asked Mantriji cal correspondences, I now embraced it all the education, about a career for his son, whose birth more seriously. I took a course from a local chart he’d brought along. Waving the chart practitioner, read several books and mem- techniques, and aside, Mantriji led the guest into the kitch- orized the keywords for each card. I was requisite en and asked him to choose anything from now ready for the occasional hiatus in a a fruit bowl on the counter. After the guest consultation, when I felt I couldn’t answer analytical skills, made his selection, Mantriji used a knife a client’s question using astrology – natal something wasn’t to cut the fruit in half and, based on what or horary – and could instead lay out a quite right. he saw there, predicted the son would simple five-card Tarot spread or toss the become an obstetrician. coins for insight from the I Ching. I had no Although this seems totally bizarre to bias for one or the other of these ancillary the Western reader, such things are com- methods, using them interchangeably know Hart DeFouw?” I hadn’t heard the name monplace in Southeast Asia where oral depending on how much time (I Ching before, but everyone said he was a brilliant traditions include hundreds of procedures takes longer than a Tarot spread) I had astrologer and a remarkable teacher. wherein the seer’s intuition is unlocked in the session, and my intuitive sense of As soon as I returned home, I reached for divinatory purposes. In the realm of which might most appeal to my client. out to find Hart, secured an appointment living creatures, there are rules of interpre- Flash forward, five years later I found and traveled to Toronto for my consulta- tation for the movement of insects, flight myself at a crossroads. Although I had tion. What intrigued me about that first of birds, barking of dogs, color of snakes, a formal education in astrology, and session was that, before discussing my droppings of cattle, and the curve of an had practiced it diligently, I didn’t feel chart, he used a piece of string to mea- elephant’s trunk. competent when it came to predictions. sure the two top phalanges of my thumb, Lest one think this is just a matter Interpreting a chart vis-à-vis relationships, noted their lengths against a ruler, and of memorizing a body of rules for omens career, etc, was straightforward, but I made some sort of calculation. He didn’t of one kind of another, it’s not that sim- knew that the fundamental reason peo- explain at the time, but I later learned that ple. Everything perceived by our senses ple came to an astrologer was to know the in palmistry the thumb is a key indicator of – whether a horoscope, a person’s hand, future. And although I had all the educa- the Self, wherein the lower phalange rep- the cry of a bird, or the taste of a sweet tion, techniques, and requisite analytical resents planning and organization, while mango – is essentially dormant until a seer skills, something wasn’t quite right. the upper is willpower and execution. brings it to life through his enlightened Around that time, a friend gave me a Impressed with his subsequent read- awareness. That unique talent, what’s called book on Vedic astrology for my birthday. ing of my chart, I expressed my interest in a siddhi, or paranormal power, is typically (That was an omen in itself!) But upon taking instruction in whatever he offered. not available to the average person, but is first encounter, I almost rejected it out of A few months later I attended a weekend developed only after years of cultivation hand, since the conversion from tropical workshop in relationship compatibility, and through diet, meditation, study, practice to sidereal zodiac shifted some of my key there heard the first of many stories about and, ultimately, faith in one’s connection to a placements from fire to water, which I Hart’s Indian guru, Mantriji, with whom higher spirit. didn’t initially relate to. After exploring he’d studied for 15 years, one on one, in a As I embarked upon a decade of stud- it, however, I had to admit it worked, not rigorous oral tradition that’s been per- ies with Hart, typically via one- or two-week just in natal interpretation, but especially petuated in one lineage or another over courses in New Mexico, California and India, in delineating timelines of life circumstanc- countless generations.

V30-02 JUNE SOLSTICE 2021 page 33 ASTROLOGY and DIVINATION ANNAND (or asymmetry) of the hand-drawn chart, a dominant flow in the right or left nostril, I witnessed more examples of different the size of the planetary symbols, or any etc – that seals the prognosis in one way divination techniques. Although Hart was mistakes made in drawing the chart. The or another. This is a principle known as the first and foremost an astrologer, he con- idea was, one could use almost anything in “rule of three.” tinually exhorted his students to become the query process to derive an assessment To illustrate this, let me offer one more than just “one-trick ponies.” By this, he of the situation, as well as a prognosis for last anecdote about Hart DeFouw’s guru. meant we shouldn’t rely on astrology alone, its outcome. On this occasion, Mantriji was conduct- but expand our repertoire to seek corrobo- After several years of teaching increas- ing a satsang at someone’s home, at the ration, or alternative perspectives, via other ingly sophisticated astrological techniques, conclusion of which a young woman in techniques. Hart introduced palmistry, another divina- the group announced she was pregnant Aside from natal horoscopy, he taught tory art that originated, or was developed and asked Mantriji whether it’d be a boy or expanded versions of horary astrology. One to a high degree, in India. No sooner had girl. He asked her to get up from the sofa of these courses – Tajika Prashna – was of I completed his one-week introductory and fetch any book from the bookcase Indo-Persian origin yet very much like what course, I began including palmistry in every opposite. When she returned to her seat, we might have learned from William Lilly, consultation, whether in-person or distant he told her to open the book anywhere albeit through the lens of Vedic astrolo- and show him one of the facing pages. gy. But another course was on Sahajana After she’d done this, he said she’d have a Prashna, which roughly translates as “spon- boy. On their way back home, Hart asked taneously intuitive horary.” In this course, Aside from Mantriji how he’d arrived at that answer. he introduced several techniques via which contributing its own The young lady had taken her first step across the room, Mantriji reminded Hart, to select an alternative “ascendant” appro- insights, palmistry priate to the occasion, meanwhile using the by leading with her right foot, and the current planets in their signs to populate acts as a powerful right side of the body is male. She’d picked the rest of that chart. complement to out a book with a red cover, and red is the This later came in handy when I would color of Mars, a male planet. Finally, she’d give mini-readings at a monthly singles astrology, and when I opened the book and shown him page 81; event during my first few years in Toronto. see the two odd numbers are male. Critically, all three omens had agreed. Seven months later, the In the course of an evening, one astrolog- modalities signaling ical sign might occupy the ascendant for young woman gave birth to a baby boy. two hours at a time. To avoid using the similar things, I know This “rule of three” is often invoked same horary chart for everyone, which I’m onto a significant regarding the interpretation of a horoscope, would render an identical prognosis – pos- particularly a horary chart. A sole indication itive or negative – for all dozen querents life theme that of a condition, let’s say wealth, is a single regarding their relationship prospects, merits discussion point, merely an idea. Two indications of the these techniques allowed me to differenti- same theme offer two points, which can be ate among a series of queries all within the with the client. connected by a line to form a thesis. But a same timeframe. third indication of that same theme provides A choice of “ascendant” can be made yet another point via which the line can be by any number of methods. For example, with the aid of hand photos. To this day I extended, creating a vector that makes an the first syllable out of a querent’s mouth still regard it as second only to astrology, a argument for a certain outcome. can be correlated to a sign, which then complementary technique that’s relatively While applicable to every sort of horo- becomes the ascendant for that horary easy to learn, and which pays immediate scopic interpretation, the “rule of three” is chart. Or the “ascendant” can be indicated dividends. The hands are an intimate part also applied to the larger world of nimitta by the dominant color of the querent’s of the individual, while science tells us that embraces every omen subject to sen- clothing, or by that part of their body their nerve pathways are directly wired sory awareness – sight, sound, taste, touch, the querent unconsciously first touches. to the two hemispheres of our brains. and smell. Some jyotishis can diagnose ill- Alternatively, the astrologer can solicit the Furthermore, the unique individuality of ness via the use of astrology, palmistry and querent’s active involvement by asking for palms, fingers, major/minor lines and fin- the smell of the client’s breath. Other jyo- any number whatsoever and expunging gerprints provides a competent reader a tishis consult on real estate projects, using multiples of 12 until a number remains to wealth of information about a client. astrology, vastu (the layout of buildings or represent a sign. And so on. Aside from contributing its own land) and the earth itself, digging a hole One of the Sahajana Prashna demon- insights, palmistry acts as a powerful com- bare-handed at the heart of a proposed strations required a volunteer querent to plement to astrology, and when I see the construction site to taste the very soil draw a chart – using lines of white flour two modalities signaling similar things, unearthed. on a bedsheet on the floor – complete I know I’m onto a significant life theme Multiple examples of this sort of thing with planetary symbols and an ascendant that merits discussion with the client. can be found in my New Age Noir trilogy, derived via a random number from the This becomes all the more compelling if Scorpio Rising, Felonious Monk and Soma querent. Hart then answered the horary there is a third divination tool – whether County. In these mystery novels, the hero question by using, not only the chart’s ayurvedic pulse-reading, physiognomy, or Axel Crowe is a Vedic astrologer whose cli- planetary positions, but also the symmetry the observation of one’s own breath with ents engage him in solving murders that page Astrologer OPA’s Quarterly Magazine 34 The Career have left the police with no tangible leads. numerology to a single digit that signifies In his investigations, Crowe uses natal and one of the planets. Physiognomy, body lan- horary astrology, palmistry and fingerprint guage and eye movements, some of which analysis, facial physiognomy, numerology, Indeed, ever since my come courtesy of NLP principles, provide additional information. And needless to vastu, ayurveda, and multiple other nimitta teacher cautioned including the flow of air through his own say, if an urban crow caws eight times from nostrils, the syllables of first words spoken against becoming a the tree across the street while a consulta- tion is in session, I’ll factor that in too. by others, the direction of birds in flight, “one-trick pony,” the barking of dogs, the color and content As author Paulo Coelho once said, of street graffiti, and much more. I’ve taken that to “God has a prepared path for us to follow. Steven Forrest has been compli- heart and brought We just have to read the omens he has left for us.” mentary in reviewing this mystery series, multiple techniques and in one of his reviews he summarizes the nature of the trilogy in saying, “The to bear, depending on Alan Annand is a Canadian astrologer, a grad- coolest thing is that the detective is an the situation. uate and former tutor for the British Faculty astrologer, and the normal clue-following of Astrological Studies, and a graduate of the is aided by multiple divinatory arts. There’s American College of Vedic Astrology. He’s writ- just enough technical astrology to make it ten several books on Vedic astrology (Kala Sarpa, plausible without ever lapsing into a tuto- astrology in the same session to isolate Parivartana Yoga, and Stellar Astrology Volumes 1-3,) as well as two books on western sidereal rial. That’s a hard balancing act to get right and resolve specific issues too murky to astrology (Mutual Reception and The Draconic and Alan nails it.” extract from the natal chart. I use palmist- Bowl). He’s also a crime novelist, whose New Age Indeed, ever since my teacher cau- ry in every client session, and frequently Noir mystery trilogy (Scorpio Rising, Felonious tioned against becoming a “one-trick pony,” observe similarities between horoscopy Monk, Soma County) features a Vedic astrologer/ palmist whom one reviewer dubbed “Sherlock I’ve taken that to heart and brought multi- and palmistry to form opinions and render Holmes with a horoscope.” www.navamsa.com, ple techniques to bear, depending on the judgments. In the back of my mind, I’m also [email protected] situation. Naturally, I use natal astrology mindful of the client’s name, whose con- all the time, and very frequently horary stituent letters can be reduced via Vedic R

V30-02 JUNE SOLSTICE 2021 page 35 Endnotes

ASTROLOGY and DIVINATION

Will she Come Back to Me? Judged by Vasilios Takos

Will she come back to me? querent. The husband had since been The querent, a 43-year-old man, had controlling her movements, to rule out been in a romantic relationship with any prospect of their meeting, and the a woman for around 3 years. They had querent wanted to know if the woman met through his work, she having would be able to return to him and con- been a customer of his business which tinue their relationship. The querent also trades in educational stationary. Both revealed he had consulted with many were married to other partners, but he other astrologers and psychics, and had was very much in love with this woman spent a lot of money seeking spiritual and described her relationship with her advice on this problem, before request- husband as a failed marriage that made ing I help with a horary. her unhappy. A few months before the consultation, the woman had broken off their relationship, after her husband found out about it and forbade her to have any further contact with the

The querent revealed he had consulted with many other astrologers and psychics before requesting I help with a horary.

page Astrologer OPA’s Quarterly Magazine 36 The Career but to explore the symbolism of the are conjoined without any mutual JUDGEMENT Moon. Not only is the Moon the co-sig- reception. The Sun may not be a malefic The querent is signified by the nificator of the querent and the matter planet and it may not make an aspect ascendant in Gemini and its planetary asked about in every horary, it has an with either Venus or Jupiter, but from ruler, Mercury, which is placed in Leo especially important placement in this the fact that it is located in a place (I.C.) and located on the cusp of the 4th horary, being very close in its immediate that does not fit its diurnal nature (so is house, the lowest point of the chart. application to the Sun and Mercury. So contrary to the sect), and since the plan- Mercury is heavily afflicted by being the Moon, which is peregrine, is also ets are in combustion with it, we can peregrine and within 1° degree of a combust and preparing to close its own assume the Sun will not show the best separating conjunction with the Sun, its synodical cycle, another indication that part of its nature, even though it is combust state aptly portraying the quer- the matter of the question is drawing essentially dignified in its own zodiac ent as undergoing some sort of symbolic to its end. Themes of a cycle being sign, Leo. death which will require a period of pu- closed are repeated by the placement The woman is signified by the rification and abandonment of previous 7th house in Sagittarius and its ruler, ideals. This helped me understand how Jupiter. Jupiter is debilitated in Capri- painful the situation has been for the corn, its sign of fall, and is peregrine and The combust querent, and that whilst this may even- retrograde in the 8th house, a difficult tually lead to regenerative healing, he is state of the house, associated with endings, loss or not at that stage of the journey yet; he ascendant-ruler anguish. The symbolism bears out the has first to recognise and work through also offers a comments made by the querent in de- his grief before being able to realise a scribing the woman as being oppressed 1 state of awakening and rebirth. warning for me to by her authoritarian husband who A more positive element of Mer- proceed with offered little to his wife and children cury’s signification is that, being in its caution, ... This means (the querent had been supporting her superior conjunction with the Sun, it financially for the last 3 years). We see is direct in motion and moving at its the querent will not the woman is facing strong tensions, fastest speed, presenting the prospect get what is wanted, fear and insecurity. that the querent will be able to obtain or will resist advice With the two Luminaries and the a final resolution to his problem and that requires a 1st-ruler in Leo, and the woman’s sig- move through the situation relatively nificator moving towards a Pluto-Saturn quickly. But the combust state of the moderation of desire conjunction in Capricorn, I noted the ascendant-ruler also offers a warning for on his part. 150° (inconjunct) angle between the 1st me to proceed with caution, for as Lilly and 7th rulers. This is referred to by the says “neither the question propounded ancient Greeks called Asyndeton, mean- will take, or the querent be regulated” (CA, of the Moon and 1st-ruler upon the ing something that is not connected, or p.123). This means the querent will not cusp of the 4th house, and their com- unbound, reflecting how the querent get what is wanted, or will resist advice bustion with the Sun which acts as the and the woman have no connection that requires a moderation of desire on 4th-house ruler. With both Lights below at all, since they could not even talk his part. I assumed this was the reason the horizon and placed upon the cusp on the phone due to the husband’s he had chosen to consult with so many of the 4th house which signifies ‘the be- restrictions.4 This aspectual relationship astrologers and psychics before me. Re- ginning and the end’, the chart is clear describes disharmony and aversion, alising I needed to handle this situation that hopes for any reunion have already and as the querent is represented by with care, I was sensitive to the fact that started to fade. a speedy Mercury, in contrast to the the querent was desperate to regain Theophilus of Edessa says about woman’s slow Jupiter, the willingness to the love he shared with the woman relationship questions: “… for this, it is reunite comes mainly from the quer- and could not believe it was lost, even necessary to see both the underground ent; unfortunately, without finding any though everything he did to approach angle [4th house] and its Lord; and if a returned response from her. her was painful. As Ibn Ezra explains, a benefic is in the house, or its Lord makes The querent feels that he has lost planet under the Sun’s beams signifies an aspect with a benefic, say the outcome a great love and the fact that Venus is someone suffering exhaustion of ener- will be good; but if a malefic is in it, or its placed in the 1st house testifies to his 2 gies, whose “force is spent”. Lord makes an aspect with a malefic, say emotional state: he is caring and in love. As I proceeded to read the chart, that the outcome will be the opposite”.3 But he doesn’t know where to channel my next step was not to look at the In this case, the Sun is the ruler of his emotions, which is shown by Venus woman (signified by the 7th house) to the 4th house and also the planet with being peregrine in Cancer, ruling the see the evolution of the relationship, which both Mercury and the Moon 12th house and closely separating from

V30-02 JUNE SOLSTICE 2021 page 37 ASTROLOGY and DIVINATION TAKOS a sextile with Uranus on the 12th house debilitated state and 8th house place- words than to experience it, but it cusp, then moving to oppose Jupiter, ment of Jupiter, which is squared by is important for you to remember the woman’s significator, indicating Mars and conjunct Pluto and Saturn) that what you both experienced, problems and obstacles. and advised him to deal with the situa- as well as the feelings you invested I found it interesting that the quer- tion very delicately. I judged that there in this relationship, gave you the ent showed bitterness and frustration would be a small opportunity to meet, opportunity to better realise things by making many references to what he for business purposes only, before the about yourselves and feel alive had given to the relationship and how end of August. The Moon needs only 42’ again, something that few people much he had helped the woman and to perfect its trine with Mars, which sug- are lucky enough to be able to her children, whilst emphasizing the un- gested that the meeting would happen experience, this way. gratefulness he received. I do not recall soon. (The involvement of a cadent and hearing the querent tell me how nice he succedent house made me think that At the end of the month, the quer- felt when they were together. This may this 42’ distance for the aspect’s perfec- ent called to tell me that he had met be the result of the combust Mercury, tion suggested a half month period, as with the woman; they resolved all their now rapidly heading out of the Sun’s 42’ is almost half a degree). However, I business issues, and she explained the beams, but it was clear the querent was emphasised that this aspect does not situation to him, emphasising that her in pain due to the loss of this relation- promise any reunion. I was insistent on children were of greatest importance to ship his forlorn hope that it would be this, because I was afraid the querent’s her and there was no longer any reason brought on again. for them to be together. She stressed to The next immediate aspect of the querent that she has decided to be the Moon, before its conjunction with I judged that with her husband and asked him not to the Sun, is a trine with Mars in Aries, contact her. Since then, they have never ruler of the 11th (or derived 2nd of the one of the most met again. 10th) and 6th house. Mars is strongly important reasons connected through square with Jupiter, to explain their REFERENCES Pluto and Saturn, all in Capricorn, in the 1 Abu Ma’shar in Ex Libris Mysteriorum 8th, and since work was a connecting separation Apomasaris begins the chapter on the affliction (other than the of the planets by saying: “Know that the planets element between them, I judged this are affected in many ways; and the first affliction of to indicate a reason for them to be in revelation of their them, is when they are under the Sun’s beams...” (CCAG contact for professional reasons. There XI, p.176-177). relationship to the 2 Beginning of Wisdom, VII. were still some unresolved business 3 CCAG XI, p.262. Theophilus of Edessa (695–785 CE), issues between them, but I knew that woman’s husband), also known as Theophilus ibn Tuma and Thawafil, the applying aspect could not provide a would be was a Greco-Syriac medieval astrologer and scholar prospect for them to be together again in Mesopotamia. her children. 4 Ptolemy: “… those that are one twelfth [sign/30°] are romantically, because of the afflicted like they are disgusted with each other … and those state of the Moon and the absence of that are five [signs] divide the whole circle into unequal parts, while the other formations divide the perimeter any translated light between the main into equal”. Tetrabiblos, I, 17. significators. However, it seemed that combust significator would indicate this might help to provide him with resistance on his part to fully accepting Vasilios Takos runs a multi-lingual astrological some answers. I also judged that one of what I had to say. I felt the only positive consultation service from his home in Thessaloniki, the most important reasons to explain outcome of the meeting would be that Greece, and offers Greek language qualifying their separation (other than the revela- it enabled them to talk and clarify the courses in horary for the STA School of Traditional Astrology (www.sta.co). Having pursued a fasci- tion of their relationship to the woman’s situation, which would allow the quer- nation with astrology since an early age, Vasilios husband), would be her children, since ent to clarify things within himself. The initially trained with Noel Tyl and has spent many Mars, the most powerful planet in the last thing I told to the querent was: years researching ancient Greek astrological texts (including the works of Ptolemy, Dorotheus, chart, rules the 11th house, that is, the Theophilus, etc.), with a particular interest in derived 5th house from the 7th, indicat- You already know this rela- exploring how the techniques in these works ing the woman’s own children. tionship is over and your need continue through to later Persian and Arabic astrological texts (such as the works of Ibn Ezra, After informing the querent of my to feel special and alive is much Masha’allah, Abu Ma’shar, etc.). Vasilios has his judgement that there is no positive sign stronger than your need to accept personal website at vasiliostakos.com and can be for a romantic reunion, and explaining that this relationship, unfortunate- contacted by email at [email protected] the situation that seems to prevail for ly, cannot continue. I understand both of them, I told him that the wom- that it is much easier for you R an is under strong tensions (due to the to describe a situation like this with

page Astrologer OPA’s Quarterly Magazine 38 The Career In preparing a Talisman for love, as cop- per is the metal ruled by Venus, one could form a copper amulet, or simply include a MAGIC ASTROLOGY small picture depicting Venus’s beauty and love, even if it is a picture of her glyph. A prayer hymn or poem that channels and a Talisman Venus’s virtues of love and beauty can be found on the internet or written by yourself if you are gifted in expression. You can find for Success beautiful poems and prayers in The Picatrix, a traditional book on Magic, written by John by Laurie Naughtin Michael Greer & Christopher Warnock. In fact, Christopher Warnock has a brilliant little book called Planetary Magic. hat is the essence of magic, that are related to Venus. These include Once all the elements above have and what can be its relation to pleasant-smelling incense, the colours of been gathered, we need to find the per- W astrology? either pink, green, or white, which we can fect time to pray to Venus and activate her When looking at Magic from the tra- use either with the candles or the cloth on energy into the Talisman for our client. ditional point of view (anything before the your altar, and respecting the number 7, We need to begin with a Venus day 17th Century), everything is understood to according to Agrippa. Then, we follow the and a Venus hour; if the Venus day, which exist in an interconnected state of Oneness. ritual with a small glass of sweet white wine. is a Friday, does not have great planets and Within this unified state, are found individ- We use our five senses in a ritual: sight aspects, we can look at other days, but make ual and multiple reflections of our divine for the colours, hearing the hymn you chant, sure you do this ritual during a Venus hour. world of ideal soul forms. feeling the texture of the Talisman, smelling Luckily, we have our computer pro- These forms appear in the intermediate the incense you are burning, tasting the grams that can help us find the optimal date realm of the celestial world through planets, sweet wine Venus supplies for pleasure. and time for the ritual. First though, I recom- fixed stars, and any other astrological fac- mend you look through the Ephemeris to tors. With the practice of magic, we are not see when Venus is fortified, and the Moon is focusing on the physical bodies but more rising. From there, we need to make sure the on their spiritual essence. In the traditional It is important that houses we are concerned with are fortified days, this energy was referred to as coming when practicing Magic — and in relation to love matters, it would from archangels or highly developed intel- Astrology that we be the 1st and 7th. ligence forms which then manifest in a less The planets ruling the signs of the perfect form in the material world of hum- understand the cusps of the houses used in any talisman ble, yet flawed, human beings. spiritual expressions are called significators. So in a love talisman, In magic, humble beings seek change we would look to the cusp of the 1st house and guidance from the celestial world. and interconnections our querent… or the person asking for the Traditional magic corresponds to the of the 5 elements. Talisman, and then at the cusp of the 7th effects we perceive from talismans related house, the house of the potential lover. to the planets and stars in the heavens who manifest the divine ideas of every potential thing the human so requires. It is important that when practicing Magic Astrology that we understand the spiritual expressions and interconnections of the 5 elements. Ether is the 5th element, lik- ened to the aura of energy around a being; it is through this element we can connect to the celestial bodies through their magic numbers, stones, colours, and spirits.

A Venus Talisman For example, a client comes to you — her astrologer—to find love. Immediately we are talking about the planet of love — Venus. It is through a magic ritual to Venus that the astrologer can make a Talisman for the client to keep near her heart, so she attracts the one to love. To reach Venus, we need to be hum- ble and honour her by using all things

V30-02 JUNE SOLSTICE 2021 page 39 ASTROLOGY and DIVINATION NAUGHTIN For example, if we want to cast a love time, as you try chart by chart by chart, talisman chart, we can have Venus in the sometimes up to 50 charts or more. Chart Factors for Timing sign of Pisces rising; this serves very well, as As you can see, Talisman Magic takes the Talisman she is exalted in Pisces and in her triplicity time to not only find the correct election When we fortify a planet, we aim to in a day chart. A chart with Libra or Taurus chart, but then set up your Altar, and then, make it as strong as possible. We do this on the cusp will have Aries or Scorpio on to actually perform the ritual. It is not a first by establishing essential dignity, the 7th house cusp of lovers. It would be casual or idle exercise, so those seeking looking until we find the planet we are great if we could get Venus applying to a such remedies should adjust their expecta- using in its own sign or exaltation; tri- dignified Mars the ruler of the 7th house by tions as to cost, accordingly. plicity can do, but that may just lead to a sextile, or even conjunction. Once you have found the optimal chart, friendship and won’t be as strong as the This is wonderful, as we get a double you can time the period these planets all other two essential dignities. I use the benefit by aspect and mutual reception by remain in the chosen placements; in many Dorothean Table of Dignities as my guide. triplicity. (Is there a chart to refer to, or just cases, we only have about 10 minutes or so Second, we fortify or strengthen an invented example? to get the right Ascendant and house place- the planet by using accidental dignity; Another positive would be if Mars is ments, but in some cases, longer. accidental dignity will be the house the found in the first house of our querent or planet is found in, where angular houses client, which means he is with her, and she Making the Talisman are strong, and where cadent and malefic has him in her house. If it is a Pisces house, On the date and time of your ritual, houses such as the 12th, 8th and 6th will he will exalt her, Venus, and she will love him you can set up your altar. From the min- debilitate your planet. because he is in her house, and he will be ute you begin, light the candles calling to Then, for further accidental dignities, her friend, as she receives him by triplicity. Venus, and then light the incense which we can look at the speed of the planets, Now, we need to find the Moon wax- supplies the smoke that purifies your where fast in motion is better than slow. ing or growing in light, and a great place- Talisman; this method is called suffumiga- Cazimi with the Sun is great, as then the tion, and as you perform this you say your planet is in the lap of the Sun. To be cazimi, prayer while moving the Talisman to and a planet must be exactly conjunct the Sun fro through the smoke. within 17 minutes, applying or separating. As with the planets, When this is completed, sip some of Aspects can be dignified or debilitat- the Moon needs the wine and give thanks for the honour of ing; we need to get our planets applying connecting with Venus through the magical to each other by a sextile or trine, and even essential dignity by the spiritual realm. Sit quietly at the end and an opposition (depending on the planet), sign she is in. She needs meditate on the positive outcome. Let the as these are dignified aspects. The square to be waxing, and she candles burn right down till they go out. or opposition are not, as they create stress Magic Astrologers have an altar ready and opposing opinions. needs to apply by for use, and it does not need to be a big Part of Fortune and the Nodes are beneficial aspect to space. Some of us use a tea tray as an altar, also important for dignity, as applying to always covered with a cloth the colour of conjunct either the Part of Fortune or the the other significators the Planet you are asking favours from. North Node will give added strength or we are trying to Before the ritual date, as a Magic advantage to the planet. Astrologer, you can actually make your A planet that is rising is always stron- bring together. amulets such as coins or discs of metals ger in dignity than a planet setting. depicting the planets you want to call upon Then, as the Moon represents the flow for their favours. It is when you actually of events, it is very important that we forti- ment would be in Cancer where the Moon enact all the above rituals that you invoke fy (strengthen) the Moon. As with the plan- is the ruler, and if in early degrees, she will the spirit of the planet in multiple coins or ets, the Moon needs essential dignity by be able to aspect both Venus and Mars in discs, all in one ritual. These artifacts can the sign she is in. She needs to be waxing, turn by trine (didn’t she mention Mars in then be sold or gifted to people looking for and she needs to apply by beneficial aspect Capricorn?). This Talisman election chart the magic they can bestow. to the other significators we are trying to will be superior, and our client will easily Once you have invoked the magic into bring together. A Moon fast in motion can find the one she seeks. the Talismans, keep them covered until speed up the process. Additionally, we need to make sure they are with the rightful client. Tell the cli- In a love talisman, the significators our significators (one being Venus) are not ent when to open the package and start to (being Venus and whichever the Lord or applying by square to any other planet. wear or use the talisman, and this can only ruler of the 7th house is) need to meet by We need to see some connection between be done during the planetary hour of the a dignified aspect or have positive mutual the significators, such as positive mutual Planet energising the Talisman. reception. reception, while avoiding negative mutual To find out the gifts the Planets can Mutual reception is once again where reception such as in detriment or fall. give during their planetary hours, look at we look at the Table of Essential Dignities To get all the players and planets to what Henry Coley says in his book: The Key and see if they are in signs that receive “behave” and work together using the to the Whole Art of Astrology. William Lilly each other by being in each other’s signs, magic of all the above takes considerable gives great examples, as does Al-Biruni and exaltation, or triplicity. The Key of Solomon.

page Astrologer OPA’s Quarterly Magazine 40 The Career Saturn for example, is good for buying property, or breaking ground to plant, to bringing focus, but not lending. Jupiter is to gain favour from Judges or the Law, to take a journey, or to sign a contract. Mars would be auspicious for action, protection, and bravery. The Sun is auspicious for recognition, to seek a successful outcome in business, and to be seen as honourable. Venus is for love and mostly woman related matters. Mercury is brilliant for buying and sell- ing merchandise, sending letters and mes- sages. and writing a manuscript or book. The Moon is good when men wish to court women, and regarding most matters of pregnancy and children. As an example, I will share a Magic Sun Talisman I created and the ritual that went with it. I am also happy to say I can share the positive outcome.

A Sun in Leo Talisman This is a talisman for courage and a successful outcome as my son-in-law pitch- es his photography business in England. “The Sun brings Men to great Dignities, that they grow in Honour and Riches day after day; it makes Men Invincible, Strong, Courageous and Fortunate; it brings great rich- es; it preserves against Plague and Lunacy.”1 (from Hibner, Mysterium Sigillorum, page 170)

I looked at suitable Dates in my Ephemeris: 23rd of July until the 2nd August, 2017 when the Sun is in Leo but also in the 1st face of Leo “A man riding on a lion; it signifies boldness, violence, cruelty, wickedness, lust, and labours to be sustained.” In this election, I am using the Indian (Vedic) Face rulerships in preference to Dorothean rulerships. I have chosen the 28th of July, 2017 a Friday, as Sunday the 30th Sun was afflicted by a square to the Moon. Finding the available time period: It is from 6:35 am as the first decan of Leo rises, and the Sun is in a Sun hour until 6:53 am. This gives me 18 minutes to per- form the ritual. Astrological Factors to Consider: Sun must be in a Sun hour and prefer- ably on a Sun day. The image most suited is in the hour of the Sun with Leo Ascending, the form of which is a “King crowned, sitting in a chair,

V30-02 JUNE SOLSTICE 2021 page 41 ASTROLOGY and DIVINATION NAUGHTIN harm the Sun, but would not in any case, as Sadly, Corona came along, and his having a raven in his bosom, under his feet Mars holds the Sun in his exaltation. business has gone quiet. But as their lock- a Globe, he is clothed is saffron coloured The Moon is waxing. down has eased, he has started to receive clothes; they report this image rendreth men some business again and I have no doubt invincible and honourable and help to bring The Ritual: that as soon as lodges and eateries start to their business to a good end.” (from Occult According to Agrippa, Lilly, Ramesey, pick up, he will be back to where he was Philosophy by Cornelius Agrippa book and other traditional authors, 6 is the before lockdown. 2, chapter 41, page 300) number of the Sun and saffron or gold the Sun or Moon must not be afflicted by colour. For the talisman, I have drawn the Conclusion an applying square or opposition of any symbol of the Sun with picture of my Son- The example described above is one of other planet. If possible, have the Sun rising in-Law cazimi (right on top) the Sun symbol many from my practice of Magic Astrology, in the first face of Leo. on the back of his calling card. The number using the rules and principles of Traditional 6 has been written on this card 6 times in a Astrology to manifest specific benefi- Chart of Talisman Election gold pen. I have Sun incense and 6 yellow cial outcomes to both resolving people’s Astrological Factors in Operation: candles together with a Sun Prayer. To com- challenges and creating their desired The Sun is dignified as he is in his sign plete, I juiced a fresh orange. All has been opportunities. of Leo, not in detriment or fall. placed on my golden Sun ritual cloth upon my Altar. Laurie Naughtin started her studies with Anita The Sun is rising, angular, and in a Noyes-Smith in 1996, Qualified in Medieval house he rules, as Leo is on the cusp. My Son-in Law actually came to the Astrology through Robert Zoller from 1977, The Sun is in a Sun hour, as well as ritual, where he prayed and participated Qualified in advanced astrological studies includ- in the first face of Leo (from Paracelsus with me. He then took the talisman and ing time rectification and relocation with Jeanette Supreme Mysteries, Pg. 144, and the 1st kept it in his camera bag which he takes on Martins, opened her Sublunar Academy of Astrology in 2002. Received her diploma in Horary face of Leo A Key to The Whole Art of all shoots. If a client can attend the ritual, Astrology with Jacqueline Brook and completed Astrology, Henry Coley, Book 2 Chapter XIV this is the best. Luckily, he and my daughter her Consulting skills course with ISAR in 2012. In pg 266 -268) were lodging with us before immigrating. 2017 received The Renaissance Astrology Magic Sun and Moon are not applying to diploma through Christopher Warnock, Election The Outcome: studies with Christopher Warnock in 2019. Laurie square or oppose any planet or conjunct has been a committee member for 7 years and the South Node (a malefic), or fixed star After a few free photographic sessions elected Chairlady of the Association Society of Algol (a malefic). As you can see, since the for clients, he finally got recognition and South African Astrology from 2016. Now President Sun has separated from a conjunction to has been successfully doing real estate of Astrology South Africa. Contact details: www. photography for lodges in England. sublunar.co.za or [email protected] Mars, though a malefic, it can no longer R

Cover Art

Tuba Gök is a freelance graphic designer who finds her inspiration from traveling around the world and discov- ering new cultures. All of the cities with dynamic cultures stimulate her towards producing inspiring designs for the international community. She is the founder of the La Brand Creative studio in Ankara, Turkey. Her primary field is logo design, brand identity, and product packaging. You can find some of her designs through this link: https://www.behance.net/tubagok Tuba began studying with AstroArt Astrology school in September 2019.

I have always believed that our names have a big impact on our lives. As an example, my surname represents the sky and my whole childhood passed with my biggest dream of becoming an astronaut. This year by coincidence, I realized that astrology is what I actually want to do. I am still at the basic level but I want to thank Maurice Fernandez, who helped me to combine the work that I love wıth astrology.

page Astrologer OPA’s Quarterly Magazine 42 The Career V30-02 JUNE SOLSTICE 2021 page 43 We may experience global cooling, as stated by some scientists. Agricultural production may decrease due to the lack of rainfall with the ensuing drought. As a result, there may be food scarcity and an extreme or volatile increase in food prices. (who and how?) If the solar activities decrease and affect the temperature on the Earth, we will need to determine energy policies in the short-term. This is what John Casey mentioned in his book “Dark Winter, which I have been studying during the previous 10 years. I will emphasize Casey’s sentence in his book: “Mankind’s attempts to more accurately predict future climates on Earth should be primarily based on solar activity cycles, which are caused by the Sun’s internal processes act- ing in concert with the other planets and our Earth-Moon system.” According to Casey, we will experience ASTROLOGY AND a cold era between 2020 and 2045 and the years between 2031 and 2037 will be the coldest. Following Jupiter-Saturn conjunc- tion in Aquarius, which is a cold sign, Pluto WE ATHER will enter Aquarius at the end of 2024 and will stay there until 2044. We will wait and by Öner Döşer see if these transits are related to the cold era mentioned by Casey, or not. Northern countries and Europe could be affected. Perhaps we might experience Astrology and Weather may bring sudden changes in weather harsh winters in Istanbul and in the western Predicting weather by astrology is conditions. Therefore, we may experience parts of Turkey and begin to produce sta- one of its most ancient applications. The sudden floods, hurricanes which were not ples which are resistant to cold and can be astrologers of old mostly observed the observed in Turkey before, and extreme stored for a long time. Of particular impor- conjunction of the planets, and for long- storms. Volcanic activities may also increase. tance are the areas of Central Anatolia and term predictions, they used Jupiter-Saturn It is a fact that major volcano eruptions have Konya delta which are grain silos of our conjunctions. Today, we also reference the serious effects on the world climate. If they country. Expansion of cultivation in these outer planets to predict the weather as occur during the solar minimum period in places can help prepare us for the near well as potential disasters. In the chart of winter, they decrease the temperatures and Saturn-Jupiter conjunction for December we may experience longer winters. 21, 2020, we see that these two make a My research has indicated other fac- Uranus's square square with Uranus. Therefore, we under- tors. As a result of earthquakes and volca- with Saturn brings stand that a number of natural disasters, nic eruptions, minerals and water resources especially earthquakes, will likely increase, in the world are shifting places. Crops may cool and stormy along with electrical weather conditions. grow in places where no crops grew before, weather conditions Uranus brings high barometric pres- and the soil becomes arable. Increasing sure. It indicates waves of cold air. It is natural disasters during the coming cold in all seasons. associated with cold, strong winds, and period may bring such beneficial results storms which produce tornados and hur- to some regions which may become more ricanes. Its square with Saturn brings cool productive than before. future and assist us in developing economic and stormy weather conditions in all sea- programs that can resist long-term reces- sons. Saturn and Uranus, which are related sion due to a potential of economic depres- sion in the coming period. The quantity to cold weather, increase the possibility Uranus is of cold weather below seasonal norms. of crops and harvest decreases during the Jupiter-Saturn conjunction in Aquarius also associated with time when sunspot activities are at lowest levels. So, again I would like to emphasize increases the possibility of cold weather cold, strong winds, conditions below the seasonal norm. that we have to pay attention to agricul- During this new cycle, the world might and storms which ture, which is in need of far-sighted reform. experience earthquakes in places where produce tornados Water will be one of the important themes of the coming period. Following no earthquakes have happened, as well and hurricanes. as tornados which we have just started Neptune's ingress into Aries, no outer plan- to observe. The change in ocean currents ets will be in water signs until Uranus page Astrologer OPA’s Quarterly Magazine 44 The Career enters Cancer and Pluto enters Pisces. As a spring, cities like Venice and other low-lying possible short-term and long-range plan- result, we may experience water shortage. metropolises are particularly vulnerable. ning and action. Additionally, there is a risk of cloud- The possible outcomes in weath- bursts impacting some regions of the world er described above invite collaboration Oner Doser, AMA, ISAR Cap, Cert. OPA with flooding. With Jupiter-Neptune-Venus- among professionals in science, agriculture, OPA Satellite for Turkey, Member of APAI Founder of AstroArt School of Astrology Mars alignment in Pisces during 2022 and policy-making to establish the best www.onerdoser.com R

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V30-02 JUNE SOLSTICE 2021 page 45 even say that we have the makings of a the depths of her watery element. Though perfect storm – an Aquarian Tempest – just many are perfectly comfortable with going over the horizon. I often make mention of down with the ship, some launched their the rise of Aquarian energy on the planet, little lifeboats of Aquarian consciousness the cycles we are moving into, and what it early to get clear of the vortex of divisive means for humanity. Many of you will know nonsense and to assist those who are that Aquarius is symbolized by the ‘water just awakening. Others had the foresight pourer’ and the ‘vessel’ or the kumbha in to wrap up their STO (service-to-others) Greek and Sanskrit. Many of you may not duties, call in our otherworldly angelic know that kumbha is also the ‘storm’ and and alien brethren, and beam out of this sometimes connected to the ‘storm-god’ Varuna of Vedic myth. As we anticipate Pluto’s transit into Aquarius, astrologically, we find ourselves Like Dorothy at the at the beginning of a colossal energetic dis- beginning of The turbance rather than at the end of a small upheaval, as many would hope. In case it Wizard of Oz, it is hasn’t fully hit you yet, “Kansas is going bye- going to take a bye.” We have already entered a new era, yet the old one is prepared to hang on to the storm to show us reality it has created, as the vibrational another world. BREAKING fields intensify. A collection of cyclical per- turbations is building the energy needed to blow down the monochromatic walls of the past; walls which are well-constructed doomed paradigm early. They are already THE and well-protected. As the title of this col- watching this holographic dramady play umn suggests, the walls of false realities out from the next dimension, reaching are destined to fall but I guarantee only through, giving us little hints, clues and FOURTH a few are ready for the changes that are guidance from beyond the veil. What we coming, and what it will take to see the think of as the physical world is becoming rainbow promise on the other side. And less and less familiar, and more uncomfort- not everyone’s level of consciousness is going able to exist in, which must happen now in WALL to make it through the storm… order for this spirit-matter transformation Column by Most people imagine themselves to to take place. be open-minded and colorfully illuminat- Adjusting your own perspective is the Russ von Ohlhausen ed (astrologers are no exception), yet they first step in the transformation. The matter have actually just fine tuned their personal world continues to reveal its truths – the black and white thinking. But like Dorothy inner confessions of the matrices and pro- at the beginning of The Wizard of Oz, it is cesses of an integrated higher mind. To PART II OF IV: going to take a storm to show us another continue to grow, we each must discern and world. So, let’s put on our own ruby slip- assimilate our portion of higher truth. Are pers, take a couple of swigs of tequila (or you broadening your own virtual horizons? ALL THINGS whatever you need to loosen up), and set Are we expanding our inner bandwidth out on our colorful quantum quest with her and connection to divinity, or upgrading and her Oz-bound companions, to uncover our integrated heart storage capacity from GREAT AND what lies at the edge of the cosmic rain- megabytes to gigabyte, or even to tera- bow. Ultimately, what we are to discover is bytes? Are you integrating your little quanta SMALL the power of faith in oneself to sweep away of information, the qubits of wisdom-knowl- the old grayscale thinking, to ride the winds edge you experience? Are you uploading A Little Subatomic of change into the future, and share with the revelations of your personal point in the world a new technicolor vision. space-time where the mystery of human- Astrology ity and divinity have merged in the form The Great Reset: Old Breakdowns & of you? Are we able to behold the furthest New Breakthroughs edge of what’s above, anatomize the inner- The culmination of antiquated soci- most marrow of that which is below, and AN AQUARIAN CYCLONE etal constructs, which we have tried so recognize how each flow into and out of the APPROACHES desperately to prop up since Pluto entered human dimension? If not, it’s time …. Have you noticed the winds of change Capricorn in 2008, are bankrupt and head- still twisting about after 2020’s epic direction- ed for breakdown. To those who are still Beyond the Yellow Brick Road al shift? If you are not wearing rose-colored trying to convince themselves in 2021 thats In her 2003 research paper enti- glasses, you would probably agree that last it’s all going to “go back to the way it was” tled Astrology and Research, Astrologers’ year’s energy has not fully abated, and in – my hat is off to them for partying on the attitudes to research methodologies and fact, an increasingly divisive pressure system promenade deck of the H.M.S. Age of Pisces the implications of these attitudes for the is settling in over the globe. Some might like it’s 1999, as she starts her final slide into contemporary communities of astrologers,

page Astrologer OPA’s Quarterly Magazine 46 The Career Bernadette Brady imparts this in her open- We Aren’t in Kansas Anymore, Toto language agreed upon by select arithmeti- ing statement: “…there is a high level of Just a few generations back, most cal mahatmas, interpreted by their tightly ambivalence amongst professional astrolo- people existed in a WYSIWYG world, where chosen priesthood. They pass on mathe- gers towards research. Furthermore, there ‘What You Saw Is What You Got’. Newtonian matical abstractions as uncontestable proof is a tendency to believe that research could physics laid out the mechanics of the mate- of the myths of the primal creative forces, only be scientific and quantitative and that rial Universe and all was right within tangi- the fractured particles of god, and a census any other form of research is insignificant ble reality. However, with the harnessing of of their incarnating material generations, and of little value.” She also concludes her electricity and the advance of technology, in narrations they can barely comprehend, paper with this in the summation: “The we’ve extended our senses to perceive the and which no two ‘clergy’ can agree upon. astrological community has been in limbo ultra- and infra- realities, the higher and And everyone else takes their distilled since the time Placidus de Titis attempted lower domains we exist within. Vanguard summations and interpretations as the to create an astrological theory, in order science has progressed exponentially authority of gospel truth. This sounds pret- to gain acceptance in the new world of by evolving and refining its mathematical ty much like all other religions. So now they science. Furthermore, the community has language and has superseded the ordinary tell us this is a YCSIADGI world, where ‘You perpetuated the situation by seeking jus- scholastic domains. Physicists have become Can’t See It, And Don’t Get It’. tification in the eyes of science exclusively an elite class, even within academic society. and obsessively. As a result, the community They function as high priests who propagate Do You Believe in Grey Rainbows? is ignoring or ignorant of other methodolo- the materialist view and keep us pseudo- Buckminster Fuller, stated that gies which could empower them to explore science heretics out of their wheelhouse. 99.999% of all known physical phenomena astrology rather than prove astrology.” They profess the stories of imperceptible occur within the macro and micro ranges I offer her statements as a re-energizing yet powerful characters, which exist in of the electromagnetic spectrum, which challenge to those of us in the estab- imaginary realms above and unknowable are entirely imperceptible to the human lished astrological community. With her worlds below. Their messages equated in a senses. Let that sink in as astrologers, that pronouncements in mind, I would like grammar, which only the calculating clerics we experience less than .001% of what is to re-envision our approach to astrolog- and enumerating rabbis can transcribe; in actually happening around us. Nearly all ical research, or at least how we find a edicts expressed in a code only they can interactions and energies in which you par- better coherence within the collective decipher, with a cannon formulated in a ticipate, you are not even able to perceive, understanding of the greater physical and let alone consciously comprehend. Almost metaphysical worlds around us. This article entirely blind, we guide our lives based is less of an information piece and more of Nearly all on a thin spectrum of light information, a summoning, inviting a friendly competi- interactions and which connects our feelings, thoughts and tion of passionate minds and true voices, behaviors. As astrologers, we at least get to unite in the continued pursuit of ancient energies in which the added benefit of some ancient wisdom, and future truth. Though most have forgot- you participate, yet, every new scientific discovery contains ten, it is part of the scientific mandate to or describes a spiritual concept or quality go outside the path laid before us, to seek you are not even able of our cosmos which the current scientific what lies beyond. I’ve heard, that if you go to perceive, let alone culture is not equipped to recognize nor far enough, you’ll find yourself there behind consciously capable of communicating. Conversely, the a curtain, pulling all the strings… majority of astrologers and metaphysicians comprehend. have not readied themselves to recognize and communicate the spiritual texture and qualities of what the theorists and physical scientists are discovering. I believe attempts should be made to directly translate astrological fundamen- tals and spiritual dynamics to analogues in the physical dimensions; and so too, the equivalent material behaviors which com- prise patterns and modes of consciousness. Tossing out a few general statements about “quantum weirdness” somehow relating to astrology is no longer enough to say we’ve made an effort towards transcribing the sci- entific dialect. To be able to create this bridge, we must first be open to new information, ideas, methods and technologies ourselves. So, let’s now relax our gaze of this other world, and peer below, into the bottomless- ness of the void reflecting above the endless manifestation of creation which beckons us to reveal its mystery. The previous sentence is deliberately ambiguous as to which part may be reflecting the other and where it may ulti- mately reside, so let’s explore.

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BREAKING actually is, and how astrology could benefit to lay along one single line has profound from understanding its implications.) The implications in contextualizing many of THE FOURTH WALL importance of this theory will affect the the world’s spiritual precepts of a central What’s Underneath the ‘As Below’ foundations of all the sciences and cannot Oneness. Oneness surrounded by Zero-ness The fundamental axiom “as above, be understated. It is considered by many to surrounded by Everything-ness. Now that so below”, is a deeply rooted principle of be the most important unproven problem kind of mathematical mind spin sounds a astrology. But where does above end and in all of mathematics. Riemann expanded lot like metaphysics to me. below begin; and where does above begin the concept of Euler’s zeta function through and below end. We usually think of this analytical continuation of complex planes, Smoke & Mirrors, Fire & Light Where there is smoke, there is fire, principle in terms of human perception, in his now famous Riemann Hypothesis and and where there are mirrors, there must the celestial planetary bodies we can see unproven conjecture. be light. When someone says “that’s noth- in parallel with our human physical inter- ing but smoke and mirrors”, what they are active terrestrial forms here. Astrologers It’s Either All or Nothing - Or Both? Fame and wealth await whoever can referring to is something, which examined and alchemists take into consideration the determine the proof of why nontrivial zeta counterparts within the plant and animal ever more closely, proves to be an illusion. zeros exist at the halfway point of a com- kingdoms; some will consider crystal, min- The basis for quantum mechanics is along plex plane of less than one but more than eral and metal complements in how they the same lines. The closer we examine this zero, called the critical line. The critical line is generally survey the bounds of the ‘below’. reality, the less real it appears to be, yet But what about the correspondences to the midpoint, 0.5, of an infinitely extended another cosmic paradoxical symmetry. the realms, domains and dimensions below plane, called the critical strip between 0 and What we are beginning to realize is that - that. What’s underneath ‘the below’ that we 1, where these root zeros exist. These inte reality is more likened to a funhouse hall gral root zeta zeros should hypothetically think we know? Essentially, nothing… be distributed throughout the strip on the THE ASTROLOGY OF NOTHING plane, but they are not. What we find are Zeta Zeros: The Roots of Quantum ALL non-trivial roots existing in a strip at the Mechanics center of all other trivial roots. These roots Born on the 17th of September 1826, radiate from a single central axis, in the Bernhard Riemann, was a mathemati- middle of an infinite plane of nothingness cian whose contributions to differential and itself is surrounded by ALL of some- lacing everything inside a zero geometry and complex analysis laid the thingness. P dimension generates the illusion of infinite groundwork for Einstein and General reflection – divided endlessly by increased Relativity, and subsequently all of quantum degrees of separateness while ultimately mechanics. His natal chart is quite reveal- ing, with Sun and Jupiter exactly conjunct preserving wholeness as one thing. That all in Virgo, along with Mercury in Virgo sextil- of infinity could mathematically be shown ing Saturn giving him a very focused mind by which he was able to firmly grasp the details of the larger cosmic picture and to communicate them with single-minded vision by contributing a new mathematical lexicon by which to do so. In 1854 he deliv- ered his theory of higher dimensions of space and in 1859 he published his paper entitled, “On the Number of Primes Less Than a Given Magnitude”, regarding the prime number-counting function, which contained the tools for modern analytical number theory. Don’t worry, we are not div- ing into this, but I will give my take on the Riemann Zeta Function, as I do believe it is a question that astrology will eventually be curious about as well. So, bear with it a moment and watch for keywords.

A Primal RoZETA Stone The Riemann-Euler zeta function plays a pivotal role in analytic number theory and the distribution of prime numbers, and has applications in fundamental physics, probability and statistics, areas which you may not realize are integral to astrology’s rudiments. (When I finally grasped the fun- damental nature of this hypothesis, my ‘mind was blown’ by how simple this complexity page 48 The Career Astrologer OPA’s Quarterly Magazine Image: Ohlhausen © 2020

of mirrors, with light frequencies bending spinning along a trajectory. Basically, cre- Vishnu, manifesting a holographic reality and curving, energies twisting, constricting ating something out of nothing, somehow, out of spiritual energy. Entire areas of the and contorting, multiplied reflections con- right in the middle of everything. The fusion sciences are beginning to seriously suggest caving and convexing, a reality stretched of these qualities constitutes the illusion of that there is an illusory or virtual quality as inside-out, through itself, warping around shape and solidity, from the singular quan- a core fundament of nature. Once thought and weaving together the dimensions. tum of a particle to the composite quanta of only as the domain of spiritual fiction, Mirrors are dead in the darkness; they only of a planet. As a mental exercise, one might the mathematics, in many ways, now sup- draw life where there is light, even a single experiment with visualizing spheres as ports the hypothesis that we really do exist candle can become infinite and eternal. planes, and vice versa, planes as spheres, inside some type of energy hologram in You may even start to think our Vedic while scrutinizing your subtle perceptions which scalar micro singularities project ancestors were on to something when they of this dual particle-wave reality. You might across dimensions. Points which cast, lines proposed the concept of Indra’s Jeweled Net even adopt a belief that all of this is a kind ripples and waves, creating subsequent as a metaphor for the structure of reality. of dream of Brahma, resting on the single interference patterns as 4 dimensional stem of a lotus emerging from the navel of images projected from the other dimen- There Are No Planets Only Planes sions. If that line of thinking starts to sound As astrologers, we may tend to think repetitive, that’s the point… of people as an array of quantities and A planet is a qualities of the physical and the spiritu- THE ASTROLOGY of SOMETHING al domains, the composite layers of the concentrated nodal A Horse of a Different Color body, and its overlays of the supporting point of intersecting Long before the modern stage was energies. Yet we don’t often relate to the set, reality hinted at something quantum planets — those things we refer to in the complex planes, which bridged the relationship of higher “as above” — in similar terms. The distribu- entangled fields and lower orders. Science gatekeepers tion of atoms, quantum particles and ener- of frequencies, have deemed the ‘quantum realm’ off lim- gies which make up these bodies are the its to spiritual seekers, exclaiming there same as those of which we are comprised energies and are no truths in there which could pertain (though not occupying the same states). information, to us and that we wouldn’t really under- Instead of looking at planets as bodies, we stand them anyway. Though it seems to might look at them as planes, more spe- at a given set me humanity has found some way to cifically complex planes, interlaced strata of spacetime consciously explore these realms before, of oscillating energies and vibratory fields. and that there are a lot of reasons why we In fact, you could look at everything that coordinates, spinning should explore them again with an eye way and you wouldn’t be wrong. Just as a along a trajectory. toward the divine. And we, astrologers, are 2-dimensional line is projected as a point in Basically, creating not alone. Trailblazing modern metaphy- one dimension, a 3-dimensional object can sicians, like Deepak Chopra, Greg Braden, be projected onto a 2-dimensional plane, something out of Lynn McTaggert, Bruce Lipton, Dr. Joe so too are 4-dimensional objects, projected nothing, somehow, Dispenza, Nassim Haramein, and others onto 3-dimensional space, and so forth. whose insights and research have been A planet is a concentrated nodal point right in the middle leading the way, are setting up new frame- of intersecting complex planes, entangled of everything. work for metaphysics, which will need to fields of frequencies, energies and informa- include astrology. The term quantum mys- tion, at a given set of spacetime coordinates, ticism has been put forth to describe and denigrate attempts to reconcile metaphys- ical concepts with the quantum sciences. Essentially, it is heresy and treason of the highest order in the scientific paradigm. Labeled as quantum mystics, we are crit- icized for not manifesting the material resources to rigorously seek proof of astrol- ogy’s mechanics, and at the same time ridiculed if we draw parallels to existing knowledge of the mechanics of the natural world. Damned if we don’t; damned if we do. And here we are, at it again.

Particles of the Subatomic Rainbow What is “quantum”? A quantum is the minimum amount of any physical entity/ property, described as consisting of a com- plete value in itself, e.g., a photon is a single quantum of light. It implies the quality of discreteness, the single quantity of a thing. In its very meaning it gives a minimum boundary between a thing and another

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BREAKING THE FOURTH WALL

thing (a quality which generally disagrees with Pisces). Something separated one integral from one thing, the smallest sep- arations possible near the smallest scales; it implies a natural prime increment within the cosmos. Like a specific color frequen- cy, it has both distinct energy and explicit value with can be quantized. You may not think that on infinitesimally small scales

Just like Dorothy explaining her adventure back in Kansas, as crazy as it may sound, we really are complex layers in an infinite “rainbow sandwich” filled with ever smaller bites of the rainbow, always creating and consuming itself.

these structures, effects and behaviors it and matter meet, also defines a boundary would be perceivable to us in this reality, of the current division where astrology and but they are. You can see and analyze the science will best be reconciled. Our Tin Man structure of quantum fields in the patterns companion set out to find the compassion of sunlight – meaning the effects of quan- he already had; Scarecrow, the intellect he tum patterns are active and discernible neither side is whole in itself, there is a lot already possessed; and Lion, the fearless- in everyday reality. And being patterns of of trans-symmetry already in place to build ness he was born with. Astrology is in need celestial light in space-time, they are also upon. And there are layers of bridges above of a new Uranian adventure, as a reminder of interest to astrology, no matter how and below these, which we will save for that we already possess the heart, mind far down the ladder into ‘the below’ the another time. and courage required to take it into a brave pattern might go. With that in mind, let’s new world aboard the starship S.S. Age of compare side-by-side the quantum level THE RAINBOW SANDWICH Aquarius…. so we may continue humanity’s with the celestial. There’s No Place like Home journey into the evolution of our return to Having just now returned from the Source… because “Aunt Em, there’s no place Crossing the Rainbow Bridge of Light other side of the rainbow, hopefully we find like home…” Both diagrams describe 12 essential our constitution a bit altered by our little archetypal energies which are fused by taste of a chroma-color dream. Just like ratios of 4 elemental forces, explained as Dorothy explaining her adventure back in Russell von Ohlhausen is an astrological models of structure, energy and move- Kansas, as crazy as it may sound, we really researcher and conscious catalyzer. With a blend of ment. With this chart, I am implying a direct science, religion, myth, math, metaphysics, & most are complex layers in an infinite “rainbow importantly–nature, his works form a foundation- pattern connection, frequency correlations sandwich” filled with ever smaller bites of al theory of astrological mechanics. Russ works and time function between the fundamen- the rainbow, always creating and consum- with the concept of celestial embodiment through tal model of the quantum particles and ing itself. These intertwined patterns of “head, heart & hands”, rooted in sacred dance & the functions of the Zodiac, a true rainbow hierarchical energy fields create the inter- ceremony. [email protected] bridge between worlds. One side of the connected pockets, little gems of reality, bridge was built by quantum physicists through which we manifest. This recursive R and the other by metaphysicists. Though and symmetric field of potential where spir-

R page Astrologer OPA’s Quarterly Magazine 50 The Career V30-02 JUNE SOLSTICE 2021 page 51 It has been my experience that to have A client who is agitated or defensive a successful practice, you have to be able to when meeting an astrologer can create balance the empathy and sensitivity of astro- more of a problem as opposed to a mutu- logical consultations with specific strategies ally beneficial growth opportunity. By and skills that offer agency in working with taking the listening position, you can also more demanding customers in a thorny enable yourself to hear what’s going on, exchange. and sort out if your client is actually having a problem with us, the session, or they’re SESSION GONE SIDEWAYS presenting something else that may be In a synastry consultation, the man alive and active in their chart. and the woman seemed to be enjoying Often I find that if a client is being dif- their consultation immensely and were ficult they do have some active aspect in giving wonderful feedback as the session their chart that is prompting them to lash moved on. As we discussed the harmoni- out in some way. While that has nothing ous aspects in the chart, they both lit up to do with me, I do have the opportunity with excitement and joy. As we discussed to listen and defuse the situation. By being some of the challenging energy from his able to listen and being knowledgeable aspects to hers, they both responded very about what is going on, I become proac- well and the woman continued to confirm tive instead of reactive in situations. Plan that these were dynamics they did experi- ahead, what will your strategy be to handle ence in the relationship. However, when we this type of client? The dove into some of the harder aspects of her Be open to including training or edu- chart to his, including a square to his Moon, cation outside of astrology that helps you and his Venus from her Saturn, I got about shape your customer service and dispute/ BUSINESS of six sentences in and it turned into an explo- conflict management skills. This can pay sion from her. dividends in the long run. Plus, profes- ASTROLOGY The look on their face was sheer hor- sional education is tax deductible! ror, and what was running through my Column by mind was fear, panic and doubt as I was TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF questioning my own competency. One hos- Making time in the morning, before Stormie Grace tile client had me in fight or flight mode. beginning your day, and also leaving buffer The boyfriend did step in, and before the time in between sessions to take on some session had ended, we were able to bring mindfulness or meditation is a way to take some repair to the situation, but at the end care of yourself. I believe it puts you in a of that consultation, I realized I needed a position to experience a lot less frustration, plan in place in case this ever happened anxiety or anger that taxing situations can TIPS FOR again. I also realized I could not be the only present. It’s fantastic to have this idea of person having these experiences. taking five calming breaths in times that WORKING WITH Astrology is a wonderfully informative are stressful, but if there’s no foundation of craft and practice, but we are also dealing actual practice in our lives, it’s really hard to with people who are at different levels of enact that in real time. By having a calming CHALLENGING awareness; “I could not possibly be alone practice in your daily routine, you can feel experiencing this,” I thought. Through this when the body is reacting to a situation CLIENTS experience, I was pushed to grow and and allows the mind to release the judg- establish different strategies within my own ment, focus on solutions and express the business plan for how I would practice han- empathy that is needed in the situation. espite having been in a nicely dling challenging clients. So, consider the established practice for eight years tips and tricks below for dealing with the D with many successful sessions and more formidable clients that may come Astrology is a wonderful client feedback, it only took one your way, however infrequently that wonderfully client with negative feedback to really rock may be. my world. In this article, I would like to offer informative craft some suggestions on how to deal with HAVE A PLAN and practice, but we challenging clients and share some person- In the day to day running of your busi- al experience. ness, customer service confidence begins are also dealing with No matter how successful and appre- with the foundation of creating a safe and people who are at ciated you are for your services, you may professional space for you and your client different levels of still encounter challenging clients. Beyond by understanding what your plan of action leading a productive astrological con- is when threatening, unpredictable or off awareness; “I could not sultation, it’s important that you know behaviors present themselves. For example, possibly be alone what to do when these situations present if a session begins to go sideways, it’s my themselves. After all, customer service and practice now to go into high gear listening experiencing this,” understanding how to handle adversity mode, and allow myself to take five deep I thought. goes hand in hand with any business. breaths to calm my fight or flight system.

page Astrologer OPA’s Quarterly Magazine 52 The Career A mindfulness practice can also help with one another. In addition to other failure birthed a growth opportunity for to bring clarity to the situation. If empathy things that were going on in her life at that me and a lovely client relationship for the is needed, I can apply it, or if I simply need particular moment, that one word created last four years. to admit that I was wrong, or apologize, that reaction. this becomes easier with greater clarity! By the end of that session we had EMPATHY, COMPASSION, created a wonderful conversation. When BOUNDARIES LEARN FROM WHAT’S GOING ON talking about particular aspects, even I think you can be a phenomenal The nice part about difficult situations though I had familiar terms and words practitioner though it is sometimes diffi- is that if you are willing to pay attention that I use, I had to consider expanding my cult to hear someone saying rude, hostile and recognize the opportunity, you can range to think about how to express cer- or unkind things to you. It’s an abrasive almost walk the situation backwards and tain concepts with clients. This potential experience. We are dealing with people in see where things went off-track and LEARN! various stages of growth and with poten- Where did the situation go wrong from tial psychological challenges in their lives. the beginning? In heightened moments of Conducting yourself with empathy and professional crisis, if you are willing to slow Once the tension is compassion while also maintaining strong down, listen and see the wisdom in the sit- diffused, I have the boundaries is vital. uation, there’s an opportunity to not only conversation about My practice is to acknowledge an stay grounded in the solution, but learn, emotion that may be causing a client to while also creating loyalty with your client. where my boundaries lash out or stimulate some pattern they The synastry client mentioned earlier, are, as the astrologer. have – while making them aware that I has been a client for over four years now. cannot tolerate abusive behavior, no mat- They consistently rate me with excellent cli- I am not the punching ter how justified they may feel. I let the ent feedback. When I had the opportunity bag, I am not the customer talk and listen to what is being to connect with her during the session that psychologist, I am not said, then pause them and ask if I’m hear- was an explosion, and asked her what hap- ing what they’re saying correctly by saying pened for her, or what I could improve, it the doctor, I am it back to them. Typically, this action alone turns out that when I used the word “cold”, the astrologer. is enough to allow the situation to begin to regarding the energy of Saturn, it triggered mend and turn the corner. a memory for her with her mother, and Once the tension is diffused, I have the how they had a very cold loving nature conversation about where my boundaries are, as the astrologer. I am not the punch- ing bag, I am not the psychologist, I am not the doctor, I am the astrologer. And by knowing and understanding my role and where I can be helpful, it creates a steady trust between myself and my clients, while also supporting them to be accountable for their own behavior. Beyond that, I believe it allows me to not take on all of the energy of my client, which could lead to burn out by trying to be everything for everyone, or spending day and night in fear questioning my com- petency based on someone else’s bad day. Next, be willing to cut your losses. Some sessions and some client relation- ships will never be successful. You have to be willing to do what you can to bring healing and positive solutions, but you must also be as equally willing to let it go. I worked with a client for a year, and she would often tell me how open and ready she was for change and growth. However, every time we had a consultation, she only met me with defensiveness and informed me that I was wrong. We would talk about upcoming energies in her life, I would tell her my interpretation, she would tell me I was wrong. During our last session of the year, she agreed with me that she mostly disagreed with all of my interpretations, and that it may be best for her to find an astrologer that she can connect with and trust the interpretation.

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The BUSINESS of support reminds me that I am not alone. your client(s), your own practice and your And we will all experience setbacks at own business. ASTROLOGY some point. Regardless of what comes our way, My willingness to both discuss this In the end, no matter how infrequent being an astrologer can sometimes feel like openly with her as well as cut my losses by these problems may be, or whether no a very solo career path. My hope in reading not having her as a client anymore, made problems have emerged yet, we are all vul- this article is that you’re not only able to it so that we could end the relationship nerable to experiencing challenging client gather some ideas and practices to imple- peacefully. Since then, she has referred situations. Having a strategy enables you to ment in your practice, but that you also three other people to me who have worked step on to the terrain of consultation bet- know that you are not alone. There are a out well. I’ve adopted this idea and belief ter armed with compassion, enabling you tribe of us out there walking, working and that by remaining open to clients staying to give the very best you have available to waiting to connect and support you. All my or leaving my practice, I let them choose love, xoxo. and allow for the universe to intervene on Stormie Grace is a practicing Astrologer at behalf of both of us to make sure we are in More than Stormie Grace and houses her own show on alignment with one another. YouTube producing learning, weekly, monthly, anything, and yearly content. Practicing in Colorado and GET SUPPORT FROM YOUR TRIBE around the globe since 2014. Holding a Doctorate I can’t tell you of Business enables her to apply those skills to After a challenging interaction with a business and mundane astrology, as well as client, it’s meaningful to have a friend or a how wonderful it is personal chart work. She specializes in teaching group of people who can support you. They to talk to another groups, one on one sessions, and personal read- can offer meaningful advice and make you ings. Under the study of Steven Forrest and with realize new things about the situation. astrologer or group of guidance of other Astrology mentors, she contin- ues to expand the astrology skills and practice in More than anything, I can’t tell you astrologers and share Evolutionary Astrology. A Member of OPA, AYA, how wonderful it is to talk to another experiences. ISAR, NCGR, AFAN, contributor to Astrologyhub. astrologer or group of astrologers and com, Midheaven Magazine, and faculty member share experiences. Because the truth always for the Portland School of Astrology. www.stormiegrace.com sets you free. Being able to lean into some R

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rather than facing Saturn’s transits with fear the ground for the planting season. It is the and trepidation, we may place our faith time to clear the fields, start the seeds and in the wisdom of life’s unfolding drama-a then to plant the saplings for the harvest drama that compels us to learn the deep that will arrive when Saturn reaches the top lessons that Saturn’s role as the Lord of of the chart. Karma brings into our lives. To begin, I will provide a short review Fourth House from my Spring 2021 article. In their book, As Saturn comes to a conjunction Reincarnation, the Phoenix Fire Mystery, to the nadir, he touches the deepest, Sylvia Cranston and Joseph Head demon- innermost point of the chart, symbolic strate that there has always been a strong of the most profound aspects of the self. belief in reincarnation and karma across Traditionally, the nadir and the fourth cultures. Thinking from an astrological per- house, ruled by the sign Cancer and the spective, like the many blood cells pulsing Moon, represent the home, land, mother through our veins, we are part of the great earth and the parents as well as the basic circulation of cosmic energy pulsating self or “base of operations.” through the galaxy. As our solar system There is debate amongst astrologers travels and evolves, so do we. Saturn plays about whether the fourth house denotes a formidable role as our galactic teacher of the mother or father. I do not prefer to self-discipline and wisdom. When discussing Saturn with clients, it is essential to educate them briefly regard- SATURN, ing the meaning of Saturn transits. As The issue of birth explained in my first column, my protocol experience, as well as is to begin by reciting a short narrative that death, can be Our Great serves as a metaphor for Saturn’s symbolic meaning. For instance, I like the lines from activated by Saturn Galactic Pete Seeger’s song, Turn, Turn, Turn, “There fourth house transits, is a time and a season to every purpose under heaven.” so the nature of the Teacher Moon must be Saturn's Journey Continues Saturn’s transit through the second considered. Column by quadrant continues Saturn’s journey through the areas beneath the horizon. Anne Redlich, LCSW As the houses under the horizon speak to separate the symbolic nature of the fourth/ issues of a personal nature, and the hous- tenth house axis along pure gender lines. I es above the horizon symbolize collective feel that the functions delineated by these experience, Saturn’s journey through the houses can be performed by both parents, PART TWO second quadrant continues to herald a time regardless of the sex. The issue of birth of inner development and a more introvert- experience, as well as death, can be activat- ed time of life. To continue the metaphor of ed by Saturn fourth house transits, so the Saturn in Saturn’s journey through the horoscope to nature of the Moon must be considered. the seasons of agriculture, his conjunction In the Theosophical literature, the to the nadir and movement through the Moon is considered to be the deteriorat- the Second houses 4, 5, and 6 can be imagined as the ing shell of the earth’s last incarnation. She last thaw of winter and the preparation of rules the three Fates who are symbolic of Quadrant. the things in life over which we have little control — the rhythmic processes of the earth, birth, death, excretion, etc. — the To everything - turn, turn, turn Saturn's conjunction pre-verbal and primitive realm of the There is a season - turn, turn turn to the nadir and Mulhadara Chakra. Saturn’s conjunction And a time to every purpose under heaven to the nadir often pulls us in a fateful way — from the song, Turn, Turn, Turn, by movement through to issues related to our origins — to the Pete Seeger the houses 4, 5, and 6 experience of occupying a body, childhood trauma and family. These issues cause us can be imagined as the s I continue the series, Saturn, Our to burrow into ourselves for the purpose of Great Galactic Teacher, I will dis- last thaw of winter becoming more conscious so that, like the A cuss Saturn’s transit through the and the preparation phoenix, we can rise out of the ashes of the second quadrant of the natal horoscope. challenges of life. For this reason, Saturn’s Conceptualizing Saturn as a wise, yet strin- of the ground for the transit through the fourth house is a good gent teacher who challenges the native to planting season. time to seek psychotherapy in order to learn from life’s difficult trials, we can place create a strong foundation to function suc- Saturn into a constructive context. And cessfully in the world.

page Astrologer OPA’s Quarterly Magazine 56 The Career lenge becomes personal self-expression; and feeding of the body. Saturn’s transit how one shines in the world. Leo and the through the sixth house challenges the Once a strong fifth house rule the children of the body native to gain skills that will help to sus- and the mind. Once a strong sense of self tain them in the world through work and sense of self is established through the experiences of service. It is a time when health becomes is established the first four houses, Saturn’s time in the a focus and the native is thus compelled fifth house is a call to creative expression. to pay attention to how they tend to the through the The fifth house experience challenges the body through nutrition and daily habit. experiences of the native to give generously of the self and Finally, the sixth house also symbolizes “to warm” the world with one’s original the abundant gifts that we give to the first four houses, expression and creations. world through our labors. Saturn’s time in the Developmentally, Saturn’s transit Developmentally, Saturn’s movement fifth house is a call through the fifth house constellates the through the sixth house is marked from age of nine and a half through twelve. Still the ages of twelve and a half through to creative in latency yet nearing puberty, the child expression. is called upon to express themselves in a personal way, —in a manner that reflects something of themselves and their identity. Developmentally, Developmentally, Saturn’s first visit to Pre-teens are discovering music and the the fourth house occurs between the ages performing arts. It is the time of identifying Saturn’s movement of seven and nine and a half. It is the start with one’s favorite stars and feeling the first through the sixth of what Freud termed “the latency stage.” A pangs of romantic experience through pro- house is marked from stage where there is a pause before puber- jecting adoration onto a teen heartthrob. ty begins and the adolescent is awakened All of these activities aid the pre-teen in the ages of twelve and in a conscious way to their sexuality. During defining the self. a half through fifteen, this time, the child has a chance to gain a stronger sense of who they are as a human, Sixth House the time of puberty. living in a body. As they continue past the Saturn’s transit through the sixth At this time, the kindergarten games of earlier years, the house concerns the hard work and skills soul becomes more grounded in its identity necessary to realize the creative visions child becomes with the Self. This shift heralds the possibil- imagined in the fifth house. The sixth the adolescent. ity of taking a more conscious look at who house is Virgo’s house and ruled by one really is in the world in relation to par- Mercury. But mythologically, it is also ents, siblings, heredity, ethnic identity and connected to the Demeter/Persphone what is found outside the home. myth and concerns itself with issues of fifteen, the time of puberty. At this time, fecundity and abundance. The sixth house the child becomes the adolescent. Sexual Fifth House defines issues of health, healing, medi- development is at the forefront which ori- As Saturn, transits into the fifth house, cine and the serious routinized activities ents the adolescent toward the body in Leo’s house ruled by the Sun, the chal- related to nutrition, cooking and the care a more significant way. Daily, deliberate care of the body becomes more import- ant as the adolescent begins to feel the pangs of romantic attraction. These are the middle school years when the ado- lescent is developing abstract thinking. Now that the adolescent has mastered the basic skills needed for intellectual and vocational training, skills can be garnered that will become important later in life as the adolescent grows into the adult and joins the workforce.

Saturn’s journey through the second quadrant continues the symbolic Hero’s Journey of life. It is a time to solidify the inner foundation of the Self in order to live out the promise of Saturn’s journey above the horizon.

Anne Redlich is a psychotherapist and astrologer living in Chicago. Anne has practiced both psycho- therapy and astrology for over forty years. She is also a writer and an untrained artist. www.anneredlich.com R

V30-02 JUNE SOLSTICE 2021 page 57 ancient Egypt, the I Ching, the Kabalah, Magickal concepts (from Crowley’s spell- ing of Magick), and indirectly touched on other cultures, reflecting European empires’ exposure to international traditions and cultures, albeit this inclusion was the result of colonialism.

ASTRO-EXPRESSIONISMS Art and the Astrological Experience by Amir Bey

THE PACT his article is examining the place the fictional novels and transcendental art, is 1st Decan of Aquarius From performing arts have in astrology. I testimony to the breadth of his artistic and The Equinox Celebration Tarot, 2019 T thought about how astrologers who cosmic vision. Edition, bronze, Amir Bey, 1983 are artists are inspired by and communicate Ritual, and Happenings, engage the astrology through art. Initially, much of the beholder in the magic and wonder of Astrology, when experienced through imagery and artistic renderings conveying astrology, perhaps more deeply than casu- the visual and performance arts allows the astrological concepts were often Greco- al mental astro-jargon. Participants can be receiver to absorb its meanings in personal, Roman or medieval in style. Now, we are in engaged through experience when per- multi-faceted impactful ways. In perfor- a period where inspiration comes from a formance art, multi-media, and interdisci- mance planetary configurations manifest much more diverse culture and eras. There plinary collaborations create pageantry. directly through the spontaneity of music, is an evolving awareness by contemporary Tarot is another example of a visual source dance, and poetry. The cosmic energies astrologers of the broader cultural context that expresses astrological concepts. It that are inherent in any act have avenues in of astrology as a universal art and science. was the foundation for my early studies performance. In visual art we see the result Many artist astrologers will not neces- in astrology. Yet, although tarot’s origins of those energies in a single work, a static sarily create astrology related art. For exam- were outside of Europe, much of it still snapshot of a living moment, the same way ple. Basil Fearrington is an astrologer with harkened to Eurocentric concepts until that a chart is a unique moment. In per- an international clientele who has taught Aliester Crowley’s The Book of Thoth, The formance, we experience those celestial in South Africa, and is also a recognized Egyptian Tarot. Crowley’s deck drew from currents as they unfold. professional bassist, featuring on albums international sources and philosophies: by Chaka Khan, and Roberta Flack, among ELEVATED MOON others. Basil was a protégé of the late Over the years I have created commissions astrologer Noel Tyl, a bass-baritone opera for people wanting their charts carved or singer who performed Wagnerian roles. rendered in mixed-media; I have created After many years of studying Dane charts in silkscreen, or painted them as Rhudyar, to hear his compositions, I was murals. In 2014 I began a series of col- amazed to read his writings on music— laborations with composer, reed player, modernistic pieces that were on a really and percussionist JD Parran. Our first per- high level. Truly prolific, his titles revealed formance opened when the Moon was how his philosophy, music, and art are elevated, thus we became Elevated Moon. entwined: Third Pentagram, Stars from This collaborative ensemble later includ- Pentagrams, and his writings on Claude ed dance by Chihiro Cute-Beat Kobayashi, Debussy and His Work, and the Magic of Michael T.A. Thompson (Sound Rhythium) Tone and the Art of Music, along with his Seed Flight, Dane Rhudyar, 1947 on drums and percussion, and Bill Toles,

page Astrologer OPA’s Quarterly Magazine 58 The Career lighting (I see his work as Lightning!). The ASTROLOGOS performances focused on the planets Many philosophies and religions have that were at the angles during the actual QUEEN OF THE UNDERWORLD a symbol; I wanted to design an image performances, with costumes created for Queen of the underworld! that symbolizes astrology: the Astrologo. those moments; segments might call for a She brings majesty to the com- This symbol combines many aspects of the change of costume, or a part of the installa- monplace Earth and Sky relationship. A chart, or any tion would be interacted with when a plan- Nurturing the populace moment in the sky is alive, the Astrologo et would enter an angle. She raises what is low: can be seen as an organic living entity, and Seeds buried not merely an intellectual concept: The cir- In furrows cle in the center is the Sun, the Full Moon, Know her. and the Earth; there are two crescents on each side of the Sun/Moon/Earth disk, rep- resenting the phases of the Moon: the wax- ning Moo is the crescent on the right, the waning Moon crescent on the left. There COMET are six points forming a line crossing the Approaching: a Comet, ori- circle that represents the Equator; its angle gins unknown represents the 23°-degree axial tilt of the With pulsating phosphores- Earth, and the six points are six signs, one cent tail aglow; half of the zodiac as seen from one side Burning brilliant, bearing cos- of the Earth. The North and South Poles mic elements, (top left and bottom right in the images) Its fading light receding, illu- run perpendicular to the Equator. There minates! are four sections - quadrants - that have six lines each are the 24 hours of the day. Each quadrant has 7 notches on the outside rim for the 4 weeks, 28 days. Dividing them on each side are two triangular shapes COMET was recited as a chant, with cut out representing the Solstices. In the the dancer as the comet; the phrases images, the left triangle marks the Tropic were randomly repeated in different of Cancer, the Summer Solstice; the right combinations. side is the Tropic of Capricorn, the Winter Solstice. As an ideogram, there are other Amir Bey holding the Lunar possible representations: An eye; planetary Disk, while reciting one of the orbits; wings; and magnetic rays surround- Moon poems, from a performance by ing the Earth. The many stars in the galax- Elevated Moon, costumes, ies are depicted in the texturing. performance, Amir Bey, 2017 Photo by Kosman Parran

Here are two Poems to the Moon, and one for Comet Borisov, that passed through our solar system in 2019. These poems were originally for performances by Elevated Moon, which included music, and dance at their recital. All poems written by Amir Bey.

THE POWER OF THE MOON The power of the Moon Is Not like the Sun at noon Is Blood that runs in the veins As an unseen flood, she can erupt. Displacing What once stood Extreme in her COMET Performed by Chihiro Risings and Settings that change, Cute-Beat Kobayashi, at Roulette, Calling for renewal Brooklyn, NY. Costume and Like the waves installation by Amir Bey, 2019 That swell at High-tide ASTROLOGOS, Amir Bey, 2014 Then Photo Yusef Jones Crest and fall

V30-02 JUNE SOLSTICE 2021 page 59 ASTRO-EXPRESSIONISMS relationships. When preparing for reading, Revisited by pianist Geri Allen was recorded the process of placing the planets, along in 2006. with the emphasis of the patterns formed is Matt Lavell, trumpeter, bass clarinetist, a meditative tool for me, as it is for the cli- and painter, who has conducted tarot and ent. The planets can be touched and have psychic readings has an ensemble, 12th an engaging impact for the client. HOUSE. Why 12th House? In his words:

“The original idea was 12 people- 1 with each house. The whole zodiac — but, after casting their charts I saw it was impossible unless I cast first and assembled every needed instrument. But it became deeper: 12 houses are every set of lesson environments, so it’s a way of saying we represent MARS the whole human races in a quest to Red for-Aries Mars, the become challenged through growth Phoenixes Flying to the Sun for and learning. But it was Ornette Scorpio-Mars; Astrologo Axes, [Coleman] who started it, “assigning” which are percussive instruments. me to create a large ensemble that Silkscreen on fabric, acrylic on lay- was half women half men to correct ered paper mask, amalgamated A larger variation of the Wheel con- the imbalance in jazz- his idea of metal. Amir Bey, 2014 cept, in a reading in Minami Boso, equality was part of the beginning. Chiba Prefecture, Japan, 2019. The per- Before 12th House I had a group with son being read is sitting in the middle me and 5 women then a second one of copper planets from the previous with 3 women and 5 men- now, get- WHEELS Lunar Eclipse oriented to surround her ting it right 10 and 10: it’s actually the way that transiting or progressed 20 houses now!” planets are arranged around a natal chart. Photo: Saco Yasuma JOHN COLTRANE I was curious about John Coltrane’s ideas and studies on astrology, and how The pianist they compared to Sun Ra’s poetic cos- and composer mology and evocative Happenings. I was surprised by how closely Trane knew his Mary Lou Williams’ chart, and fascinatingly, how his passing was recorded in was hinted at through his astrological mus- ings, music, and meditations. 1945, featuring He was passionate about astrology and compositions for all spoke of some of the critical aspects in his 12 signs based on 12 planets, such as the opposition between his Mars in Taurus and his Saturn in Scorpio: individuals of each “… Mars in Taurus, in direct opposition with sign that she knew Saturn, the deadly planet, in Scorpion, the WHEEL: Amalgamated metal, mag- sign of death!” That may sound fatalistic, netic plastic (the planets), 3’ Amir as subjects for Bey, 2017. The Sun and Moon in inspiration. copper are visible on the sides. The planets were those of a recent client. Not visible: bells at the bottom of the John Coltrane was Wheel; the other side has the planets passionate about of the client’s son. When being used, ASTROLOGY AND JAZZ astrology and spoke as the Wheel is turned from one The pianist and composer Mary Lou chart to the other, the bells ring. Williams’ Zodiac Suite, https://www. of some of the critical youtube.com/watch?v=mBPepNvOzQw aspects in his planets, In 1980, I began a series, Wheels, was recorded in 1945, featuring compo- inspired by Native American Medicine sitions for all 12 signs. Her compositions such as the opposition Wheels. They have been as large as 4’ were based on 12 individuals of each sign between his Mars across, with bronze planets, copper, or that she knew as subjects for inspiration. magnetic, so that the planets can be The elegance and precise articulation in Taurus and his moved, some have smaller planets for pro- of Williams’ astrological vision can seem Saturn in Scorpio. gressions and transits. Others are mobiles familiar to an astrologer, even when Zodiac than can be turned to view two charts for Suite is first heard. A later CD, Zodiac Suite:

page Astrologer OPA’s Quarterly Magazine 60 The Career however, during the hours of his death Ra’s Arkestra, theater, and dance. Instead, those planets figured in the transits. Trane was like a monk, or a shaman, to Sun John Coltrane recorded Interstellar Ra’s hierophant, the High Priest. Space with drummer Rashied Ali in 1968, John Coltrane’s natal chart is from his As astrological five months before his passing. Published birth certificate; time of passing is from his artists, we are already posthumously in 1974, the album has Mars, death certificate. engaged in artistic and Venus on side 1, Jupiter, and Saturn on By having his Mars and Saturn, the side 2. A later CD edition includes Leo, and two “malefics,” in opposition, some kinds expressions. What are Jupiter Variation. Hearing Trane’s energy of challenges are possible. Fascinatingly, the ways that through his tenor saxophone and bells, with when he went to the Huntington Hospital Ali’s free-flowing drumming, not only are the on July 16, the day before his passing, the astrology can planets’ meanings evident: he was also mov- Moon was in Scorpio, and had been con- be evoked? ing through interstellar space! These were joining his chart ruler, transiting Neptune, meditations on the planets as he explored with both planets conjunct his natal Saturn boundaryless realms. in Scorpio, and opposing his natal Mars in distinction between astrology and astrono- For many years Trane studied and was Taurus, which he associated with death. my, essentially between art and science, or inspired by Eastern philosophy, astronomy, mystery and routine was drawn. and astrology. He was deeply spiritual, with As practitioners and students of astrol- his two grandfathers ministers of the African EVOCATIONS ogy, are we to hamper the communication Methodist Episcopal Zion church. In his Art and performance can transmit of what astrology can be by pursuing con- quest for knowledge and spiritual searching astrological ideas through multi-faceted fining notions not productive of helpful he was open to discovering new ideas, musi- expressions, far beyond the thousand ideas to guide us to realize, to experience cally, spiritually, and socially. He gazed at words from a single picture, towards the miracle of self-awareness? When we try the stars, was familiar and studied the con- immeasurable awareness and experi- to communicate the chart to clients, what stellations; at a break between sets in a San ence. Ritual evolved to become theater, is the language used? Are there universally Francisco gig, he took time to walk outside and iconographic art and sacred writing understood correspondences that can and meditate on the stars before returning became universal symbols. Art and science reach past a complex webbing of terms to to the performance. are entwined in human practices and dis- arrive at a destination of self and give cli- Sun Ra transmitted the cosmology of ciplines; method is fundamental to any art ents clarity and motivation? ancient Egypt, fusing the spiritual and the and science, whether it is spontaneous, Do astrologers need to be “artists” to modern in unique pageantry, costumes, an unexpected mistake, or the result of a communicate astrology in artistic ways? As and poetic notions like “Space is the Place,” deeply researched project. astrological artists, we are already engaged and “The Immeasurable Equation,” with his There is a debate among astrolo- in artistic expressions. What are the ways famed Arkestra. In contrast, Interstellar gers concerning whether the discipline that astrology can be evoked? The envi- Space has Trane’s internal reflections, should be considered an art or a science. ronment created by an astrologer for their powered by his virtuosity and intensi- Historically, if we go back to the so-called clients, whether by remote platform or in ty. There weren’t any expressions of Sun Renaissance period we will see when the their studio or office, is a personal way that is defined by the astrologer to convey their vision of astrology. I took the occult path because I was searching for answers, at times not even knowing what my question was. Each read- ing I do for myself, whether astrology, tarot, or coffee readings, are driven by my need to know; I’m looking for guidance from the confusion I might be in! Personally, I benefit from having different avenues of expres- sion and experience to find my way. In this same way, people can benefit from gain- ing a perspective of their lives through the stimulation of an astrologically informed artistic vision.

Amir Bey is a New York City-based occult and visual artist. He has studied and practiced astrology over 50 years, with a lifelong interest in history and mytholo- gy. He is a renowned multidiscipline artist and cura- tor, combining art and astrology in many projects. In 1993, he published The Equinox Celebration Tarot, a 36-card decan-based tarot, in which each image he originally carved in stone; the deck is likely the only 3-D derived tarot. Internationally he has con- ducted readings and occult events in Turkey, France, and since 1996 in Japan through a series of tours. Throughout, the occult and visual arts simultaneously inform his work. https://www.elevatedmoon.com R

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page Astrologer OPA’s Quarterly Magazine 62 The Career Tour the Healing Sanctuaries of Greece ~ Ancient & Modern ~

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V30-02 JUNE SOLSTICE 2021 page 63 JUPITER in PISCES

and the attack on the U.S. Capitol. This is especially so when other planetary and JUPITER IN PISCES IN Lunar Node alignments are creating aggres- sive energies. We saw this scenario last summer and fall when Mars-Aries squared 2021-2022 Jupiter, Saturn, and Pluto in Capricorn, and, on January 6, when the Mars-Uranus con- Attunement to Higher junction in Taurus squared Jupiter-Saturn- Pluto on January 6, while the transiting Truths and Healing nodal axis squared Neptune-Pisces for the month leading up to the event. by Peggy Schick In Pisces, Jupiter is now able to weave a softer course of compassion, free from the squares to Mars-Aries of 2020. Jupiter shows us where we have the potential mid the controlling, disruptive, and Steering a Course of Compassion for greater abundance. Archetypes and potent influences of Saturn, Uranus, Jupiter joins Neptune—both in their archetypal principles are represented by A and Pluto, enchanting Neptune’s domicile, in Pisces—in the cause of assur- the wise teacher, the seeker, higher mind, archetypal qualities are often undervalued, ing we humans have set our course for meaning-making, and belief in a higher and even misunderstood. Especially as it compassion and unitive consciousness, power. Hope. Faith. Trust. Ideology. Justice. traverses Pisces, 2011 to 2026, Neptune is helping to right the ship, in a sense, away In Pisces, Jupiter is in its original domicile. It bit like the sensitive, dreamy, “out there” from the confusion and delusional chaos is at home in a place where the process of sibling within the Outer Planet family, of recent times. Neptune, in its more meaning-making is met with the psycho- disappearing into the background space evolved expressions, is the planet we logical need for unitive consciousness. while the louder, intimidating siblings bat- associate with spiritual transcendence, tle for attention. If there is any mention of unity, and bliss. It corresponds to the part When We Lack Meaningful Neptune-Pisces at all in 2021 astrological of us that knows without need of proof that Spiritual Connection articles and forecasts, it is most likely at the we are part of something much larger and The difference between whether peo- end. Likewise, Jupiter gets attention for its timeless. Neptune attunes us to our higher ple experience planetary transits through Aquarian work this year, with little-to-no source, our imagination, our divine inspira- Pisces in a positive vs. a potentially harmful mention of its ingress to Pisces. tion. Neptune is the dream-weaver, guiding way, seems to do with whether they are This year through next, Jupiter moves us to a higher vision. in to support Neptune’s selfless cause as As the co-ruler of Pisces, Neptune it forges its own Piscean path from May shares qualities with its sign. Pisces is the Neptune 2021 through December 2022 (with a ret- sign of spiritual yearning and can corre- rograde to Aquarius and an ingress to Aries spond to a sense of otherworldliness. It corresponds to in between) and will amplify Neptune’s is the sign of infinite love, surrender, and the part of us that quiet and sometimes illusive call for divine atonement. Neptune in Pisces brings a attunement. worldwide atmosphere of fluid reality and knows without At this critical time of recovery from all heightened imagination. need of proof the ways in which the COVID-19 pandemic When Neptune is in Pisces, it can that we has affected the world, and at this pivotal be an ideal time for creative pursuits for moment of healing for the United States deeper spiritual practices to be cultivat- are part of as a nation, Jupiter sees to it that the heal- ed. The shadow side of Neptune-Pisces’ something much ing gifts of sensitive Pisces will lead us to a boundarilessness can manifest in confusion, higher place. delusion, and mass hysteria, as in rampant larger and timeless. conspiracy theories, messiah identification, page Astrologer OPA’s Quarterly Magazine 64 The Career attuned to their spiritual essence or not. from the COVID story. Jupiter-Pisces gives Many people, over the last few decades, us, and everyone, great capacity for hope. have shifted away from the organized reli- gion or faith of their parents, while many I am always happy Jupiter in Pisces, Retrograde are being raised in households with no to introduce people to Jupiter spends about one year in each sense of religious affiliation at all. Those astrological sign and goes retrograde about who have not developed a healthy spiritual the notion of every 13 months. Its ingresses into and ret- practice of another kind may find them- feeling great about rograde departure from Pisces could have selves conjuring up a sense of connection their gifts of Pisces — Jupiter navigating potentially difficult to things that cause a false sense of sanc- currents. tity, and to things that are harmful. A lack their natural intuition, of true spiritual attunement can create imagination, and JUPITER’S TRAVERSE disillusionment, victimization, descent into THROUGH PISCES substance abuse, identification with savior oneness with the personalities, and other Piscean shadow natural world. Pisces Ingress May 13, 2021 behaviors. Retrograde June 20 As with Neptune, Pisces’ qualities are often misunderstood. I work with many Reenters Aquarius July 29 people who are disconnected from this Yet we also should consider the millions Goes Direct October 18 aspect of their psyches. In the introducto- of healthcare workers around the world Reenters Pisces December 30 ry astrology classes I teach and in private devoting themselves week after week, readings, as we uncover the planetary month after month, to the care of others, Enters Aries May 11, 2022 placements and qualities of their charts, often in overcrowded and substandard sur- Retrograde July 28 roundings. In addition, consider millions of my students and new clients sometimes Reenters Pisces October 29 react initially with a defensive dismissal of volunteers, across the planet, offering their their Pisces placements, with a “meh” sort assistance at vaccination clinics. Goes Direct November 23 of embarrassment just for having a Pisces Reenters Aries December 21 signature to begin with. From commercial Jupiter-Pisces as Unifying Teacher horoscopes and hearsay, their superficial Across the globe, whether or not we understanding of Pisces has them believ- are consciously aware of the synchro- Retrogrades are a time for the “re’s” ing this watery quality makes them weak, nicities between human experience and — retreat, reflect, reassess, rethink, reat- vulnerable, and flaky. I am always happy to celestial movement, it’s hard to deny the tune — to experience planetary influences introduce people to the notion of feeling sense that, somehow, higher universal in a more inward and soulful way. Jupiter- great about their gifts of Pisces — their forces are at play during this past year Pisces retrograde invites us to attune to natural intuition, imagination, and oneness when we’ve shared the experience of being the higher wisdom of the collective uncon- with the natural world. locked down and knocked down by the scious. Jupiter-Pisces retrograde will be a Coronavirus. Jupiter-Pisces reminds us that productive time for dream journaling, and Oneness there are deeper messages or lessons we’re transcendent practices such as Holotropic I am a Sun-Pisces native with tran- being asked—sometimes forced—to heed, Breathwork (the work of Stanislov Grof) siting Neptune poised in conjunction at such as our need to repair national health- and regression hypnosis—activities that 22° Pisces to my natal Jupiter, right now care systems in dire need of improvement, allow us to transition in consciousness, as I compose this article. In my highest or the fact that we can actually make head- where we move from everyday waking imagination, I see Jupiter’s transit through way in clearing the air and water on this consciousness and cross into the deeper Pisces as one that presents opportunity planet if we significantly reduce our travel soul-mind, to awaken to the messages of for all the world to revel in oneness with worldwide. These essential realizations are our unconscious, higher wisdom. Higher Source, in union with The Cosmos, critical to our survival. What is our Piscean Might Jupiter-Pisces retrograde also as human beings born of the universe and vulnerability teaching us? To what might we bring an emergence of delusional psy- of this earth. We, and all living things, share need to surrender? chological behaviors? Conspiracy theories far more DNA than we do not. Jupiter- As we revel in the experience of freely at their height? Likely so. Faith and spiri- Pisces encourages us to believe in and visiting, hugging, and holding loved ones tuality are great things, unless Jupiter’s surrender to all that is, where we can flow we haven’t seen in over a year, or venturing potential for abundance leads people to in an abiding trust in the intelligence out to dine without concern about spread- over-functioning and overextension. In of the universe and find purpose in our ing a deadly virus, we who practice astrol- that case, we may witness manic levels of compassion toward one another. ogy are fortunate to understand an ancient self-righteous behavior and dogmatism. We continue to see this compassion cosmological framework that helps us in the incredible efforts across the globe make greater meaning of this difficult time The Previous Jupiter-Pisces Transit to treat COVID patients and to get as in history. We understand our obligation to vs. the Current One many people vaccinated as quickly as pos- do more than simply de-mask and return to The last time Jupiter made its way sible. Certainly, there have been economic our lives and lifestyles. The Cosmos shows through Piscean waters, from mid-January and political factors driving the charge. us there are greater lessons to be learned through May 2010, it was forming a con-

V30-02 JUNE SOLSTICE 2021 page 65 JUPITER in PISCES SCHICK junction with Uranus, in opposition to Saturn. Disastrous events were followed by great acts of compassion and duty: Haiti’s devastating earthquake was met with aid from around the world. In reaction to the BP oil-spill in the Gulf of Mexico, hearts bled across the globe and thousands of volunteers arrived to try to mitigate the devastation to marine life. This time around, Jupiter’s planetary interaction with other outer planets is rela- tively benign, which in part may explain why most astrological forecasts that I’ve seen for 2021 make no mention of Jupiter-Pisces.

Lots of Amazing Sextiles in Early 2022 In 2022, in the weeks leading up to the February 20 USA Pluto return, we will see Jupiter-Pisces forming a sextile with Uranus- Taurus. Then, these planets position in exact sextile a few days before Pluto’s exact return at 27°, 32’ Capricorn. From about January 22 to February 20, Mars-Capricorn will form a sextile with Jupiter-Pisces as well (and Mars will conjunct Pluto in an 8° orb at the point of Pluto’s return). At this time, too, Neptune will be in sextile with Pluto as well as the of these planetary influences, either way we Lunar North Node in Taurus. If we actively will be almost certain to see Jupiter-Pisces’ At the point of exactitude of the USA engage in the purposeful expansion of our collective Pluto return, as the country is immersed inner work that awareness at this time. As the chart affirms, in the depths of its shadow, these accom- the energies are too strong not to be mir- panying water-earth sextiles introduce a the earth-water rored by significant shifts in human psycho- notable concurrence of yin energy, serv- sextiles invite us to do, logical experience. ing as active agents of Plutonian rebirth. Collective grief is the primary way in Yin, in Chinese philosophy, describes the we can realize which Jupiter-Pisces will promote healing. passive principle of the universe. But pas- Pluto’s healing and Ecological Intelligence is the brilliant sive is not the same as inactive. Earth and transformational and beautiful 2005 nonfiction book by water are receptive, inward, yin energies. Jungian Analyst and medical psychiatrist Pluto seeks wholeness on the inside. An power. Ian McCallum that interweaves eco-poetry, abundance of passive energy combined mythological references, and global envi- with repressed Plutonian power at its ronmental data. A theme of the book is strongest has the potential to become very creative, emancipatory, truth-and-values- that grieving is the prerequisite of all healing.1 destructive. The energies could implode in centered experiences. Jupiter-Pisces in What occurred to me, as I recently read pas- highly detrimental ways and detonate the its more evolved sextile expression with sages of this absolutely amazing book, is worst of human behavior. Mars-Capricorn correlates to concepts such that Jupiter-Pisces opens wide the opportu- Alternatively, if we actively engage in as compassionate, restorative justice; law- nity for United States citizens to unite in grief the inner work that the earth-water sex- making based in principled ideology; and as a prerequisite to healing and transforma- tiles invite us to do, we can realize Pluto’s truthful governmental leadership. Neptune tion that the USA’s Pluto Return empowers. healing and transformational power. How sextile Pluto could give spirituality a more The country can’t possibly heal, if it doesn’t it goes depends on whether or not United powerful presence at this critical time. first acknowledge its profound grief. States citizens are able to plumb the depths Neptune sextile the North Node may help By and large, people fear the griev- of the nation’s shadow side with conscious us each understand ourselves less as lone ing process. It hurts. It’s painful. It’s grief. intention. It also depends on whether we individuals and more as an integral part of We go to great lengths not to feel it. This make the most of the amazing sextiles The a much greater whole. avoidance and denial brings to mind the Cosmos offers us at that time. head-in-the-sand initial stage of Plutonian Sextile opportunities come togeth- Healing Energy at Work transformation. Don’t make me go there. er when we take them, purposefully. Sextiles are not necessarily positive in I won’t do it. It can’t be true. From sextiles, a new capacity, or output, nature, of course. Whether this early 2022 Along with the United States’ true and emerges. In their highest manifestation, concurrence of yin energies manifests in mighty stories of strength and honor, the Jupiter-Pisces sextile Uranus-Taurus energize positive output or activates the darker sides mighty and horrid truths of its history must page Astrologer OPA’s Quarterly Magazine 66 The Career be acknowledged by all citizens if the coun- “In order to withdraw projections and of Jupiter and Neptune in Pisces this year try is to heal and rebirth itself. These horrid assimilate their content into one’s own per- and next, I hope everyone with an interest truths include the country’s establishment sonality it is necessary to experience the loss in astrology will consider Pisces less as a on lands acquired through the slaughter of of the projections as a prelude to rediscov- representative of the age of yesteryear and millions of indigenous peoples, an agricul- ering the content or value within. Therefore, more as an integral and essential part of the tural economy built on the backs and lives mourners are fortunate because they are exciting awakening we sense and see all of hundreds of thousands of slaves, the per- involved in a growth process. They will be around us. sistent systemic racism that infects every comforted when the lost projected value has Let’s embrace the higher octave of part of the infrastructure that holds the been recovered within the psyche.”3 this time period when the transcendent country together, a governmental structure expressions of Jupiter and Neptune can be revered the world over, yet one that con- Balancing Grief and Gratitude evoked in intuitive and forgiving Pisces. The trollingly indoctrinates its own people into Earlier this year, my husband and I best of Pisces brings unity. A true awaken- behaviors and beliefs that undermine their bought a painting from an artist in our ing and transformative process requires our very freedoms. home state of Maine. She had worked on embrace of Pisces’ archetypal principles of Just as healing cannot take place with- the painting, intermittently, throughout oneness, infinite love, atonement, and sur- out grieving, grieving cannot take place 2020. She told me a friend had asked render. When we engage the transcendent without compassion. Whether it is com- her how she was doing, generally speak- wisdom of Jupiter-Pisces, we become the passion for other people, or compassion ing, through the trials of 2020, and she agents of change we are all called to be in for Self, mourning demonstrates our ability responded by saying she felt like she was the Age of Awakening. to relate on a deep level. As the last sign continually balancing grief and gratitude. of the tropical zodiac, Pisces holds within At hearing her own words, she finally REFERENCES it the essence and experience of all eleven understood the painting and was inspired 1. McCallum, Ian (2005) Ecological Intelligence (Cape Town: Africa Geographic), 158. preceding signs. Jupiter-Pisces gracious- to finish it. 2. Jung, C.G. (1942/1968) Collected Works #16, ¶467 ly presents us with an opportunity to The painting is titled “Balancing Grief 3. Edinger, Edward (1992) Ego and Archetype (Boston: express compassion for all people, and and Gratitude” and hangs on my dining Shambala), 136 to grieve in unison, world-wide, around room wall as a lasting reminder for myself the unveiling of dark truths that have and my family of all that we have endured Peggy Schick is an intuitive astrologer, regression- ist, and Reiki practitioner with a clinic in Maine remained shadowed in the collective for in these long months of pandemic-related called Soulful Wellness. She has been devoted to hundreds of years. struggle, continue to endure with so much astrology in earnest since her Uranus opposition C. G. Jung says, “No new life can arise, political polarization, and will continue to in 2003. She serves as co-chair of the Maine Jung say the alchemists, without the death of face through the racial reckoning that has Center, and studies in Jungian psychology inform the old. They liken the art to the work of the found momentum. I’m grateful for all that her work. Peggy’s work is also strongly guided by claircognizant intuition and clairvoyant impres- sower, who buries the grain in the earth: it is being unveiled. sions. She teaches introductory astrology classes, dies only to waken to new life.”2 Mourning, and she offers topical astrology presentations Jungian Analyst and medical psychiatrist Embracing Pisces in the through non-profit organizations. For more infor- Edward Edinger writes, is caused by the loss Age of Aquarius mation, and to sign up for Peggy’s newsletter, please visit www.peggyschick.com. of something (or someone) that was carry- In our transition from the Age of Pisces R ing an important projected value. to the Age of Aquarius, and with the help

“Balancing Grief and Gratitude” By Maine artist, Joy Vaughan

V30-02 JUNE SOLSTICE 2021 page 67 JUPITER in PISCES

torial and economic divisions about slavery were at a boiling point. On 3/6/1857, the US Supreme Court’s Dred Scott Decision ruled NEPTUNE IN PISCES’ that slaves weren’t free, even in free territo- ries. Also, a financial crisis lasted 18 months SCORPIO DECAN – the call to sparked by “The Panic of 1857” when a lack of international trade led to the failure of transmute suffering several banks (Scorpio). In the 1858 Presidential debates, With Insights from Astrologers Abraham Lincoln argued that slavery was morally wrong, and the Federal Gov’t Isabel Hickey and Dr. Oskar Adler could extinguish it. On a platform includ- ing prohibiting slavery in new states and by Astro-Therapist Amy Shapiro, M. Ed. territories, he won the election on Nov. 6, 1860. Scorpio’s ruler, Pluto, echoes its underworld abduction myth and desire to he Beatles’ lyrics, “I get by with a little The Scorpio decan dissolves the veils overpower, rape and enslave. Those desires help from my friends,” sums up this between the material and etheric realms. had to surrender to Neptune-in-Pisces’ T topic and article, which underwent People with a water emphasis or strong humane, compassionate impulses. a major do-over thanks to OPA Editors. Moon, Neptune or Pluto sense this. If you On Feb. 13, 1861, five days after the Though invisible to readers, the transforma- work with psychic energy, it’s vital to pro- electoral vote count, Jefferson Davis became tion proves, we each need help (Neptune tect your aura to avoid unwanted entity the Confederacy President, two weeks in Pisces) to make changes (Scorpio decan). attachments. People can be vulnerable before Lincoln’s inauguration as the 16th It’s also a joy to share two more ‘invisible’ to astral entities without knowing it and US President (3/4/1861), vowing to pre- helpers here, Isabel Hickey and Dr. Oskar become drained by them. As we experi- serve the Union. Five weeks later, the Civil Adler, from ‘the other side.’ ence loss, confusion and disorientation due War began 4/12/1861, after 7 slave-states As Neptune dipped into the deeper to things beyond our control that challenge formed the Confederate States of America, waters of Pisces’ Scorpio decan, (20-29o) in our faith (Neptune), we also are pulled joined later by 4 more seceding states. the spring and summer of 2020, a tsunami psychically by departed souls’ unfulfilled With Neptune in Scorpio’s decan of Pisces, of crises hit us – a global pandemic, job inse- people had to decide what to sacrifice curity, racial and economic injustice, political (Pisces) for what they wanted (Scorpio). By turmoil and extreme climate-related events. its bloody end in 1865, the war killed over We are now in a 4-year transit of Neptune in The Scorpio decan 620,000 lives. this decan from 2/21/2021 through March dissolves the veils Now 2021, 156 years later, we’ve 2025. The need grows for humanitarian aid between the material returned to Scorpio’s decan of Pisces and and empathy (Pisces) to face the existential a re-reckoning in social justice struggles realities of death, economic strains (Scorpio), and etheric realms. -- BLM, Stop Asian Hate, voter suppression the effects of social distancing, isolation, People with a water laws aimed at suppressing minorities. The quarantining, hospitalizations (Pisces), and deadly US Capital attack of 1/6/2021 in a the push for top medical research, virus emphasis or strong global pandemic, was stoked by lies, false therapeutics and delivering vaccines glob- Moon, Neptune or conspiracy theories, hate and attacks on ally (Scorpio). Pluto sense this. democracy by Russian dark-web psyops. Since Pisces’ key word is “I believe,” let’s In 2021, conscience calls us to rectify racial consider what part of belief belongs to injustice and disenfranchisement, aid and its Scorpio decan. Once embedded in our comfort the dying, grieving, ill, isolated psyches by others, beliefs possess us on a deep and marginalized (Pisces), including war level, dictating our thoughts (Air), feelings wishes. Suicide prevention is a real concern, refugees and the homeless in gentrified (Water) and deeds (Earth). An unconscious while, on the flip side, a right-to-die move- communities. belief will overpower us, if we cease being ment is gaining traction. Isabel Hickey and Oskar Adler both its holder with the will (Fire) to freely choose Neptune is like a dream or a play into used Astrology for healing. Each also sur- to accept or reject it. We become what we which we escape, as Pisces blurs reality, vived the 1918-1919 pandemic. Readers believe. By examining our drives, we can dissolving the limits of logic and reason. often feel their presence through their reprogram ourselves to make new choices. The Scorpio decan of Pisces reminds us writings. The saying ‘sunlight is the best disinfectant’ that death is the ultimate escape from Isabel’s message in “Pluto/Minerva: The also applies to our ability to transform our the weights of the world, and sex as a Choice is Yours” (part of ACS) is, we must habits. By processing unconscious fears, tantric experience lifts the psyche to a invite into our consciousness and lives the drives or passions, even due to past-life euphoric state. forces of Light. Dark forces intrude. Besides trauma or debt, we reclaim our power over A look at when Neptune was last in this teaching the power of prayer and creative them. Beliefs can be healing or toxic, and decan (3/7/1857 to 4/13/1861) can shine visualization, she also taught a mantra that Scorpio’s stinger can inject poison or cures. light for us now. In 1857 the moral, terri- resonates with the Scorpio decan: Absent

page Astrologer OPA’s Quarterly Magazine 68 The Career from the appearance is present with the Isabel’s published writings include: Adler was a doctor, musician and phi- Power! We need to see the power behind Astrology: A Cosmic Science, It is All Right, losopher in Vienna. He was introduced to the appearance of a situation. and Never Mind. Astrology by Baroness Hamar before WWI. She did not write about Neptune in Dr. Oskar Adler, author of The Initially skeptical, his curiosity (natal New Pisces, which she hadn’t lived as a transit. Testament of Astrology, saw Neptune as Moon in Gemini!) led to his becoming pas- So in creating “Your Cosmic Blueprint: A ‘meta’ energy, in four transformational ele- sionate about Astrology. His musings on Seeker’s Guide” report based on her text, ment-linked ways: earth transforms into music’s power and effect apply to our topic, I wrote on Neptune in Pisces, aligned with water, water into air, air into fire, and fire in italics below, from his The Critique of her teachings: “Enormous psychic sensi- into earth. Neptune in Pisces transforms to Pure Music, written in 1918 (translated by tivity and desire to serve humanity and Gemini, so the believer becomes a doubter. Michaela Meiser of Austria, and co-edited dedicate your life to a cause that expresses Since Gemini’s 3rd decan is Aquarius, our with my assistance), published in 2020. your compassion to alleviate suffering. challenge is to be believers who know He saw reproducing artists as qua- You understand the meaning and value of why we doubt! si-magicians whose audiences experience sacrifice for a cause. Your generation will In The Critique of Pure Music, Adler being mesmerized. Their magical forces see advances in hospice care and a greater explores music’s spiritual roots and links to also link to sexuality, as charismatic actors understanding of realms beyond the phys- astrology. He expressed this in an original or magicians appeal to audiences’ sexual ical. Your dreams form a foundation for drawing, on the cover of the English and consciousness and unconscious, “reveal- your reality.” bilingual editions: ing the metaphysical oneness of magic with the ability to create. Heroes and heroines on stages become objects of erotic desire.” As he taught, “magic is only blessed if not used for selfish or egocentric purposes.” A magician, “often has no idea of the respon- sibility that must be accepted, when given such gifts” and is tempted by “forbidden fruits that fall onto one’s lap when these powers are used selfishly.” To contain this exhilarating power, maestros redirect “the overflow of magical forces of all virtuoso pieces and cadences, as a kind of safety valve to save the concert from exploding or over- heating from magical tension. A comparable safety valve exists for actors in the theatre.”

V30-02 JUNE SOLSTICE 2021 page 69 JUPITER in PISCES SHAPIRO as a 4-fold metaphor: everything physical This leads to “superficiality and unreliability As Astrologers, our Scorpio-decan (earth) symbolizes something metaphysical. in all intellectual matters.” When we hear challenge is to become selfless magicians, Everything of the soul (water) symbolizes weird conspiracy theories – like ‘Q-Anon’ by helping people see their part in a sub- something meta-psychical, everything logi- – his cautionary insight begs us to pursue lime cosmic whole, not “hypnotize others cal (air) symbolizes something meta-logical, Scorpio’s drive to research what’s behind into worshiping one’s personality” – as is the and everything ethical (fire) symbolizes the brain-washing confusion that conspir- performer’s temptation. The transpersonal, something meta-ethical. acy theories produce, and ask: who stands cosmic character of Neptune, Pisces and And in today’s inside-out political cli- to gain what by a confused citizenry? Scorpio echo our longings for the beyond. mate fueled by often malevolent “spin” – a The following came in meditation long To aid us, Adler suggests imitating nature’s euphemism for lies – what masquerades ago. I was perplexed as to why Scorpio rhythms. as “truth” may be its opposite! Adler refers rules both sex and death. They seemed so Imitation gives “a first idea of the eter- to the Neptune in Pisces metaphor as a: opposite! I was shown that the true glyph nally restless struggle inherent in nature, of “yearning to overcome doubt, gain faith for Scorpio’s dynamic is a spiral, not an “m” its unfulfilled longing of redemption from and rise from intellectuality to intuition. … ending in a Scorpion’s stinger! The spiral is the permanent fight of opposites, forced into Something arising in the emotional realm energy moving through matter, opposite uncompromising repetition. By incorporating has the effect of emotional skepticism.” He to Taurus’ coiled-serpent energy. Then I saw rhythm into one’s practice, we learn to express was especially prophetic of our times in why it made sense for Scorpio to rule both our longing with the language of nature and predicting: “In this generation, many truly sex and death – the two vehicles through impress it with a transpersonal and cosmic religious individuals deem themselves athe- which we enter and depart from our earth- character.” In so doing, we elevate ourselves ists, and many God-seekers believe or tend to ly vehicles. from isolated creatures, to speaking the appear to themselves as skeptics.” language of the universe. Both Isabel Hickey and Dr. Oskar In The Testament of Astrology, (Vol. Adler taught that any energy can mani- 3) he notes that everything Neptunian fest in a higher or lower way; character appears strange, even its discovery in Pisces, and consciousness determine our path. due to disturbances it caused. Neptune To Adler, the lower Neptune-in-Pisces As perhaps many of you, this year, I’m reflects our “reaching out into the expanse is seen in people, “ever ready to consider seeing themes related to death, personal of the beyond” as a soul longing. He poet- as intuition each inner spark of perception.” transmutation and karmic reconciliation ically calls it an “internal God-experience, with clients. They are asking: what is my life striving to work its way up into clear human purpose, what karmic issues or lessons are consciousness, to comprehend in full lucidity, In today’s inside-out tied to a relationship? How do I heal this what it means to be the pore of the universe.” wound? Of course, other 2021 astrologi- Neptune is our journey to awareness of the political climate fueled cal factors are Saturn in Aquarius square universe and our part in it, as in the rest of by often malevolent Uranus in Taurus, plus Eris in Aries square the message inscribed above the temple at Pluto in Capricorn, pressing us to face hard Delphi’s gate: “Know Thy Self” then “And Thou “spin” – a euphemism truths and tests of conscience (SA sq UR), Wilt Know God.” With Neptune in Pisces’ for lies – what and eliminate toxic conditions to deal with Scorpio decan, we are on that quest. masquerades as radical change (PL sq ER). By ‘tuning into’ To receive Neptune’s “meta” gift we Neptune in the Scorpio decan of Pisces, we must surrender to higher powers! Adler “truth” may be its may hear within our soul a kind of music refers to it as “the poet’s power to see expe- opposite! that creates a passionate mood and reveals rience and embrace in the particular the to us the secrets (Scorpio) of our soul’s obli- higher, lying beyond.” This is truly Scorpionic, gations (Neptune in Pisces).

REFERENCES 1. It Is ALL Right, The Critique of Pure Music, Astrology: A Cosmic Science, The Testament of Astrology, Never Mind, Dr. Oskar Adler: A Complete Man 2. Dr. Oskar Adler: A Complete Man

Amy Shapiro, M. Ed. serves clients remotely from Gloucester, MA. She’s appeared on dozens of radio and cable shows and her own “Good Heavens!” shows; written for Horoscope Magazine, served in NCGR, and other Astrology groups. Besides “The Testament of Astrology,” her Adler biography, “The Critique of Pure Music“; Isabel Hickey’s “Never Mind,“, “It Is ALL Right“; her “Cosmic Blueprint“ and “Eris“ report, her books “Forces At Work: Astrology and Career“ and “Inviting Eris To The Party: Our Provocateur in Unfair Affairs“ are also available via NewAgeSages.com, as is Amy. R

page Astrologer OPA’s Quarterly Magazine 70 The Career nihilism and totalitarianism, as both came to devastating fruition in the first half of the 20th Century. The petroleum-fueled A STROLOGY, THE conveniences and consumer culture that came out of the Second World War served as a bulwark against these existential COMMON BELIEF OF quandaries, but times are changing. The nation that concretized the Enlightenment project and sits at the head of our Liberal TOMORROW World Order, the United States, is ramping up to its third Uranus return (2027-2028), by Michael Kiyoshi Salvatore coincident with reviving concerns for illib- eralism thought banished during the last one (1944), and talks of civil war like the one before that (1860-1861). This is in addition to uring the Winter Solstice of 2020, a to unprecedented improvements in the a second Neptune opposition since the Civil rare astrological transit took place standard of living of millions across the War, and the first Pluto Return of a modern Din the first degree of Aquarius – not planet, but often through forceful and democracy. only did Jupiter and Saturn’s 20-year Great extractive means that were genocidal and In short, things look dire in the medi- Conjunction cycle change elements from initiated cascading ecological collapse. um- and long-terms, without sufficient Earth to Air, a once-every-800-years event, At the same time, the ongoing techno- tools for navigating the many coming but it was also close by declination, almost scientific revolution promises the arrival storms. But Saturnian necessity is the appearing as one great star in the sky. This mother of Uranian invention, and there merging of light gained popular interest as are many actively experimenting with how a once-in-centuries event, drawing com- Navigating the future to resolve the “meaning crisis.” There are parisons to the 7 BCE Great Conjunction in requires a serious those like Carl Sagan who see the beauty of the middle of Pisces, associated with the the natural world as sufficient in inspiring then-imminent celebration of Christmas. confrontation with spiritual awe; then there are those like inte- Many believe this ancient event was the the malaise famously gralist Ken Wilber who work to synthesize Star of Bethlehem that led the Magi to the best of pre- to post-modern worldviews Jesus, whose life is widely associated with observed by Friedrich into a cohesive theory of spiritual evolu- 1 the beginning of the Age of Pisces. Nietzsche and tion. For all their good intentions, these The recent Great Conjunction capped Max Weber over a methods tend to be overly cerebral and off a year that began with the conjoining of individualistic, failing to provide stabiliz- Saturn and Pluto over their nodal axes, an century ago: God is ing collective myths, norms, and rituals, or archetypal synthesis that ushered in a global dead, the world is account for the axiomatic paradoxes of the pandemic, a striking demonstration of astro- human condition. logical efficacy. With the world still largely disenchanted, and we For others, the only way forward is shut down, the closing major conjunction must grapple with back; for example, psychologist Jordan of the year received attention as an omen the spiritual void Peterson advocates for a return to for an even larger transformation of human- Christianity, the withered root at the foun- ity, the dawning of the Age of Aquarius. left behind. dation of our philosophical heritage. The Unfortunately, as it’s been for other predic- reasoning is sound: established religions tions for the new Age’s genesis, little has provide a holistic scaffolding for life and happened during Jupiter’s sweep through of general artificial intelligence, nanobots, society, and perhaps they can again, but it’s Aquarius to suggest a catalyzing shift in and genetic engineering could propel us more likely that religions of old are dying consciousness. In anticipation for Jupiter’s into a post-human existence. All drudgery for a reason. Unprecedented advances in departure from Saturn and Aquarius for may end and total liberation unleashed — technoscience requires unprecedented its home in imaginal Pisces, I’m inspired to or else a small minority may be empowered spiritual technology. There are lessons to share some speculation on why a new Age is to enslave the world, or perhaps produce carry forward – Christianity’s emphasis on close and what it could mean. machines and microbes of total destruction. universal compassion over “might is right’’ One need not buy into the concept Our material advancements far outstrip parochial loyalty, for instance – but a new of the Platonic Great Ages or sympathize our metaphysical principles. Navigating belief system must also contend with a with millenarian visions to get the sense the future requires a serious confrontation hyperconnected, decentralized world, we’re approaching major upheavals wor- with the malaise famously observed by inspire humility and harmony with the thy of a pronouncement of a “changing of Friedrich Nietzsche and Max Weber over natural world and its processes, and bal- 2 the Gods.” From the Renaissance to the a century ago: God is dead, the world is ance the autonomy of the individual with Enlightenment to the Industrial Revolution, disenchanted, and we must grapple with the needs of the collective. Promethean achievement has normalized the spiritual void left behind. Otherwise, No one should pretend they have the faith in the individual and reason, leading the center will give way to the extremes of sure solution to meet these needs, but I

V30-02 JUNE SOLSTICE 2021 page 71 JUPITER in PISCES SALVATORE with the Ascendant-Midheaven axis of the is where astrologers depart from inquiries believe the seeds for it lie in a rising yet astrological houses. Less known are the into its naturalism to emphasize its judi- most ancient of belief systems, astrology, tidal effects of the planets’ gravity as they cial, divinatory power. This may be fine for which could re-emerge as the common orbit around the sun, generating sunspot now; a lot of astrology’s audience debates spiritual foundation for humanity in the activity and affecting the solar winds that the extent to which they “believe,” but their coming centuries. To sketch how we may hit the earth through heliocentric square, continued investment in astrology speaks get from here to there, I’ll consider its state opposition, and conjunct aspects. These for itself: it is working for people, even if its of the art in physics, unpack some of its changes have contested and limited links mechanics are obscure. As long as the prac- metaphysical implications, and hypothesize to climate change3 and economic cycles,4 tice is alive and evolving, there’s a chance how its current applications support the which astronomer Percy Seymour extends for new discoveries that link it to physical social development and cohesion of indi- as the basis for evolutionary selective pres- processes. viduals and collectives of the future. sures producing life that synchronizes to In the meantime, the coming outer the observable movements of the wan- planet returns for the United States this Astrology and Physics dering stars, anticipating their ecological decade could open some minds to deeper While most of human history saw the relevance. The study of biological cycles inquiry, as it will test the most concrete and unity of natural and mythological beliefs is relatively young and Seymour’s ideas universal aspect of astrological theory – the on the formation and operations of the remain dubious and untestable, though coherence and cogency of planetary arche- universe, the scientific revolution bifur- other evidence is mounting that the season types and their cyclical unfolding. Unlike cated these perspectives, requiring a new of one’s birth predicts one’s long-term life astrological testing that centers on individ- belief system to incorporate, or at least not outcomes, including personality, preferenc- uals and remains mired in the subjectivity violate, the physical and mechanistic under- es, and physiology,5 echoing basic tenets of of self-reflection and word games, these standings of the world. Perhaps this rift is the tropical zodiac. long-term cycles offer a natural experiment too wide to bridge and may no longer need The differences between these empir- beyond the control of anyone. Astrology redress, but in surrendering the ground of ical models and astrological orthodoxy isn’t the only cyclical model predicting cosmological theory, astrology is unlikely to shouldn’t be ignored, however; while these a Great Event this decade. The statistical get many converts from fence-sitters and studies collectively validate parts of the focus of Peter Turchin6 and generation- doubters, never mind hard-nosed skeptics. four major pillars of astrological theory al historiography of Bill Strauss and Neil How could this change? — cycles, signs, houses, and aspect — it Howe7 can help uncover the mechanism of Tests validating astrology are key, but doesn’t bode well for the majority of the this correlation. If it indeed comes to pass, the twentieth century saw many attempts elegant interlocking systems that make up it seems rational to consider what other with little proof for astrology’s many claims. the practice. This could be a call to do as grains of truth may be found in astrology, However, some notable but nascent find- Francis Bacon suggested, to purify rather a small step that may start a giant leap for ings and theories still stand. Most famous is than reject astrology, but more often this humankind. the work of Michel Gauquelin, who found a connection between certain positions of Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, and the Moon at one’s birth and particular types of pro- fessional eminence, roughly correlating

The coming outer planet returns for the United States this decade could open some minds to deeper inquiry, as it will test the most concrete and universal aspect of astrological theory – the coherence and cogency of planetary archetypes and their cyclical unfolding.

page Astrologer OPA’s Quarterly Magazine 72 The Career Astrology and Metaphysics way, the multiplicity of manifestations Let’s consider the worst-case scenario: isn’t proof of astrology’s vagueness and if this next decade is smooth sailing, and confirmatory nature but a reflection of no cosmological ground for astrology ever Far from reducing the entangled nature of the cosmos, one’s emerges, then what value could astrology people to simple agency and will meeting the universe half- have? Isn’t it just as the skeptics say, a belief way. It’s remedial work with Mars to direct system that brings false comfort in the face categories, irritations away from the chance of combat of an indifferent, random universe? astrology affirms one towards a useful application. Perhaps, though the universe may not The spectrum of potential construc- be as indifferent and random as ‘scientism’ of the better insights tive and destructive manifestations of suggests. The robustness of observation of modernity: each each archetype overcomes the mistaken effects in quantum physics may yet be the human is a world in inherited belief in an essentialized nature death knell of objectivity and determinism to Good and Evil. Good and bad are as the participatory nature of the universe, itself, a unique endemic to any Truth, which are better and the centrality of consciousness, gains unfolding in time understood in creative tension, requiring acceptance. Then there’s complexity theory, dialectical compensation and synthesis which models the spontaneous, organized and space, while towards a homeostatic center — recog- emergence of systems contra reductionism simultaneously a nizing the best of Saturnian Order and and linear causality, modeling the implicit product of a finite Uranian chaos, their mutual trade-offs, order of the cosmos underlying the appar- and bringing them in alignment. ent randomness. set of qualities that This is all heady stuff, but I believe the The latter theory is part of a growing are universal to all. practice of astrology implies some level reclamation of two of Aristotle’s “causes” or of adherence to these beliefs and more, “explanations” for phenomena that have whether acknowledged or not. These val- been denigrated by modern science: the ues can be traced to some of the oldest final explanation, the purpose or teleology organism’s skin, or the nation’s borders, beliefs of astrology and remain potent in of a thing, like a heart’s function for pump- to structure and protect. light of new scientific paradigms, a testa- ing blood; and the formal explanation, the The plurality of archetypes embodied ment to astrology’s perennial philosophical patterns that make something a type of in the wandering stars, the sky, and the value, which extends into its better-known thing, like the chambers and valves of the celestial sphere reflect the many distinct applications in everyday life. muscle. Both explanations are metaphysi- emanations of the underlying cosmic one- cal, resisting the quantification and objec- ness. For example, the planets form a great Astrology as a Global Belief System tive analysis of science’s preferred material chain of meaning that connects immanent Given we now have a nascent global and efficient causes. The dynamic, living experience to the eternal and transcen- consciousness, future belief systems will processes explained by type and telos are dent, from the reactive habits and comforts need to balance excess specificity that best understood through analogy, meta- of the Moon to the divine universal com- imposes social categories that violate phor, and symbol, and help link the sky and passion of Neptune. This exemplifies how indigenous systems of belief and living, the earth as a proxy for relations between lived experience is not below or divorced but also not be too vague and lose its util- the concrete and the abstract, the temporal from the numinous, but permeated by it, ity bridging cultures. Astrology’s growing and the eternal: “as above, so below.” requiring no leap of faith to step from one popularity, despite its low reputation, sug- Both cosmic and biological cycles are facet of life towards a larger or finer picture gests it already organically connects with endemic to reality, interpenetrating wheels of the cosmos. Similarly, the zodiacal signs various life experiences without imposi- within wheels bringing similar types and tell a story of development, from pioneer- tion. However, there are many examples of telos in new forms and causal webs. The ing Aries to dissipating Pisces, mirroring astrological types, mainly Sun signs, used complex harmonies and resonances of the major stages that dynamic systems to pigeon-hole people into stereotypes, planetary orbits reflect the interconnect- move through in an unending sequence of which, much like race and gender cate- edness of lived experience and the subtle birth, death, and rebirth. gories, can normalize power differentials order implicated in its unfolding. Astrology The monist tendency towards abso- across identities. While true and problem- suggests time is not a literal cycle repeat- lutism, whether under one God or in the atic, this can happen with any system that ing itself, a linear regression or progression Enlightenment belief in a singular Truth, can tries to identify types, a problem that goes of the Christian and Enlightenment world- be overcome with the help of astrology’s beyond astrology. Unlike other type sys- views, or pure randomness of the postmod- pluralism. As Niels Bohr said: “The opposite of tems, astrology is “profoundly egalitarian,”8 ern, but like a spiral that mediates change a fact is a falsehood, but the opposite of one each type sharing equally good and bad through ebbs and flows that stretch from profound truth may very well be another pro- qualities and mutually interdependent on the temporary present through the past found truth.” Astrological symbols embody the others’ gifts. and future, into eternity. This unity isn’t just paradoxically exclusive yet simultaneously Far from reducing people to simple through time, either; the fractal-like nature true axioms, dependent on how one partic- categories, astrology affirms one of the of planetary symbology is evident across ipates with the archetype; a circumstance better insights of modernity: each human scales of complexity, as Saturnian teleol- can call for both Saturnian stability and is a world in itself, a unique unfolding in ogy is similar to the cell’s membrane, the a Uranian rebellion from tyranny. In this time and space, while simultaneously a

V30-02 JUNE SOLSTICE 2021 page 73 JUPITER in PISCES SALVATORE so much as archetypes re-emerging and product of a finite set of qualities that are recapturing public consciousness. A new universal to all. Everyone has their ways to global myth will have to be equally mercu- get what they want and produce results, rial, valued for its viral vitality. The discovery of their Mars. Everyone has their ways to Astrology can flourish in this para- heliocentricity may relate and harmonize with others, their digm, as it isn’t wedded to sacred narratives Venus. This goes beyond secular bromides of its own, but serves as a Rosetta Stone have cleaved of self-evident truths about humanity and of meaning-making by which experiences astrology from provides more specific tools for individuals and ideas can be interpreted. Of course, astronomy, but it to develop a multifaceted understanding astrology is still mythic; the Greco-Roman of themselves and others. When taken as deities and stories by which the planets are wouldn’t take much a whole, the plethora of interpenetrat- named help tap into the intuitive reservoir to reunite them in ing systems in astrology can produce a of the unconscious and help embody the combinatorial explosion of interpretation symbolism of the sky. Other myths and their practical uses. that can lead to the natal chart and timing deities also correlate with the planets, like The concept of techniques serving as Narcissus’s watery Pluto with Sumerian Ereshkigal, and Uranus months comes from reflection, but this is another unavoidable with the Titan Prometheus. Traces of these consequence of types. It should be opposed, archetypes are also constellated in the the Moon, the year 9 but it can never be eliminated; any map social sciences; Pluto corresponds with the from the Sun. Each can be confused for the territory, and there seething instincts of the id and coercive can’t be belief without a map, nor meaning webs of Foucauldian power; and wherever day is named after without belief. you see Prometheus evoked in the human- these Luminaries or Astrology can not only respect cultur- ities, Uranian revolution, genius, and para- al and personal differences, but also help digm-shifting technology surely follows. one of the five oppose the rise of a totalitarian system, as In short, the infinite manifestations visible planets. astrology’s efficacy is independent of any of astrological symbols and their intuitive central authority or dogma and puts the meaning makes them uniquely suited for individual in direct communion with the universal adoption without becoming a tion is reversed. A return to these pagan Divine. Traditional religion canon is guard- tool for totalitarian control, instead serving roots could bring us back into alignment ed by a sacred order; astrology has likewise as a common dialectic that can bridge all with the natural cycles along with the sym- been a practice in service of and protected forms of meaning-making. bolic potency of our solar system. by elites, requiring advanced knowledge few Of course, celebrations of the solar could access, but with the increasing avail- Astrology as a Social Practice cycle hardly make a robust system of belief; ability of astrology and interpretations, it has Astrology currently lacks the mundane we require more frequent reminders of our been freed from centralized control, for bet- structure that a good religion offers for participation in something greater than ter or worse. No one can control the sky or ordering life, but it’s not hard to see how ourselves, events that help maintain com- the lessons projected onto and taken from it. it may do so, and at the same time recon- munity bonds and normalize self-reflection As time goes on, the whole of astrology may nect us with the natural world through and development. For this there’s the lunar look more like the unbroken Indian tradition personally and historically meaningful cycle, with weekly shifts in moonlight that and its interpersonal transfer of knowledge, ritual and celebration. The discovery of are ritualized into periods of reflection and leading to myriad variations on astrology’s heliocentricity may have cleaved astrolo- intention-setting. This practice can bring fundamental precepts: planets, the Moon, gy from astronomy, but it wouldn’t take family and community together as regular- and the Sun in relation to each other from much to reunite them in their practical ly as any attendance of church, and instead the vantage of the Earth. uses. The concept of months comes from of following the dictates of a religious lead- Mythological stories will likely remain the Moon, the year from the Sun. Each er, be customized to the nativity of every the bedrock of existential inquiry and day is named after these Luminaries or member and the present unique moment moral instruction, but where their concrete one of the five visible planets. Astronomy, of time reflected in the wandering stars descriptions once bound a specific time, and therefore astrology, already underlies above. Therapy secularized confessions to place, or people, our global media envi- the vulgar systems of timekeeping we a priest, as astrology re-enchants therapy ronment has collapsed the distinctions moderns live by, systems of measurement and communal self-help. between high and low, indigenous and and control through which we exploit the The cycles of other planets can also foreign narrative. With attention becoming planet and ourselves, conveniences that provide individual and collective rites of ever more divided yet discriminating, the have exacerbated our collective amnesia passage and celebration – every twelve cumbersome cultural peculiarities of tra- to the natural cycles of death and rebirth years is a celebration of Jupiter’s return to ditional myth won’t be worth the slog for of which we are part. Christmas approxi- its location at a nativity, bringing inspira- the eternal wisdom within them. The rise mates the Winter Solstice, Easter the Spring tion and opportunity; every twenty-nine of popular culture mythology is evidence Equinox, Halloween the Autumnal; these sees Saturn demanding we take stock of of this shift: for example, Innana’s descent Christianized celebrations retain traces of responsibilities and the structures of our into the Underworld mirrors Elsa’s descent our erased past that could be reclaimed lives. Further out, the planets discovered into the Unknown, but this isn’t a retelling and further developed if their appropria- in the modern age connect us to histor-

page Astrologer OPA’s Quarterly Magazine 74 The Career ical cycles and trends and unite us with belief system, but there are reasons to moment – for a ‘metamorphosis of the gods,’ of the our ancestral past. Cycles of growth and think it may achieve this status, and reasons fundamental principles and symbols.” 3. Edouard Bard; Martin Frank (2006). Climate change change in the individual and the collec- to champion its continued rise. and solar variability: What’s new under the sun?. , tive, the historical and the cosmic, are all But even if astrology doesn’t come 248(1-2), 0–14. doi:10.1016/j.epsl.2006.06.016 overlaid and interpenetrating in astrolo- to prominence, it’s naive to think it’ll 4. Theodore Modis (2007). Sunspots, GDP and the gy. It contains the ultimate unitive vision. ever go away, as astrology is already one stock market, 74(8), 1508–1514. doi:10.1016/j.tech- Skeptics likely couldn’t look beyond of the most universal belief systems. It’s fore.2007.07.001 5. For a summary on recent findings, see Chapter 9 the absence of causal evidence to take traceable to the time reckoning of our old- of Russell G. Foster & Leon Kreitzman’s Seasons of Life these rites and rituals seriously, but recent est known artifacts and monuments, first (London: Profile Books, 2009). studies show that one doesn’t have to formalized into a recognizable iteration in 6. See Peter Turchin’s Age of Discord (Storrs, CT: believe in something for it to still benefit the Hellenistic era, though evidence sug- Beresta, 2016). 7. See William Strauss and Neil Howe’s Generations them. Simply by participating in the rit- gests astrologies sprung up and evolved (New York: William Morrow, 1992) and The Fourth ual of receiving placebo medicine, even independently across the world, continually Turning (New York, Crown Publishing: 1996) when known to be fake, many patients still adapting to the changing tides of religious 8. According to New Atheist Sam Harris: https:// show measurable benefits. Far from being belief. If nothing else, it’s a safe bet that as www.youtube.com/watch?v=aALsFhZKg-Q a defect of our confirmatory minds, the long as humans can track the movements 9. For an additional example, see my essay “Psychological Type and Astrology” in Archai Issue 7, placebo effect seems essential to how we of the sky, we will seek meaning in it that’s “Historical Roots and Current Flowerings” (2020). function, and that it is better to work with relevant to our lives. Whatever faith may and optimize it than ignore or suppress it. ultimately rise to satiate us, astrology will Michael Kiyoshi Salvatore is a Californian maker And if nothing else, establishing regular likely still be there. and writer. Straddling traditional and archetyp- al schools of thought, their astrological practice periods and deadlines for self-reflection REFERENCES traces the unfolding cycles of life through personal and improvement is more likely to help 1. Carl Jung: “Christ was born at the beginning of lunations and collective outer planet transits. This than depending on individual will alone. the aeon of the Fishes.” 135, in Jung on Astrology, work grounds their research into models on life in ed. Saffron Rossi and Kieron LeGrice (NY: Routledge, pursuit of underlying universal axioms, which can So Aquarius When? 2018) from “The Historical Significance of the Fish” be found at typestudies.net. (1951) (CW 9ii), par. 172 Of-course we are quite far from seeing 2. Carl Jung in The Undiscovered Self: “We are liv- astrology become a common or dominant ing in what the Greeks called the kairos – the right R

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V30-02 JUNE SOLSTICE 2021 page 75 JUPITER in PISCES

earlier each night. Saturn is in the middle of the triangular star shape of the sea-goat JUPITER AND NEPTUNE Capricorn, and Jupiter is moving back and forth across the tropical boundary between Aquarius and Pisces, within the IN PISCES constellation of Aquarius the water bear- er. (Due to precession, the tropical signs Crystallising Emerging of astrology are shifted back by one sign Awareness from the constellations). by Robbie Tulip The twelfth house of the Age, lasting for upiter will transit through Pisces over next 179 years, is both a time of the disso- three periods: lution of the energy of the Pisces Age, as the next 179 years, is J From the 13th of May until returning we transition into the Age of Aquarius, and both a time of the into Aquarius on the 28th of July 2021. also a time of recapitulation and recollec- dissolution of the From the 29th of December 2021 until tion, looking back over the history of the first entering Aries on the 10th of May 2022. Age with new insight and clarity. The cen- energy of the Pisces From the 31st of October 2022 tral moment of transition into the twelfth Age, as we transition until re-entering Aries on the 18th of house of the Age, the Jupiter-Neptune December 2022. conjunction, is profoundly reinforced into the Age of Meanwhile, Neptune has slowly moved by their bookending conjunctions with Aquarius, and also a through Pisces since 2011, where it will Saturn – the Jupiter-Saturn conjunction in time of recapitulation remain for a total of fourteen years until 2020 and the Neptune-Saturn conjunction entering Aries on 27 March 2025. The rel- in 2026. These meetings with Saturn, the and recollection, atively fast-moving Jupiter activates planet of serious finitude, work to solidify looking back over the slow-moving and subtle energy of and define the finite meaning of the other- Neptune at their conjunction in Pisces, wise infinite mystical possibilities created the history of the which occurs on 13 April 2022. These two by the joint rulers of Pisces. Age with new insight gas giant planets are the co-rulers of Pisces, Jupiter and Saturn are visible togeth- and are both at home in this most spiritu- er in the sky for several months, rising and clarity. al of signs. Their coming conjunction is a generational event, indicating potential for profound shift in public priorities and ideas, crystallising emerging spiritual awareness. As discussed in my article in the December 2020 OPA magazine, titled The Twelfth House of the Age of Pisces,1 this April 2022 conjunction between Jupiter and Neptune is a defining physical event for the shift of Zodiac Ages. In this model, every Zodiac Age has twelve stages, or hous- es, opened by the triple conjunctions of Jupiter, Saturn and Neptune that occur in successive signs every 179 years. These triple conjunctions occur in overlapping families. The Pisces family is ending, and the next house in the Aquarius family will begin with the six planet conjunction in Gemini in June 2060. The Jupiter/Neptune conjunction of 2022 represents the entry into the twelfth house of the Zodiac Age of Pisces. This may mark one of the most Piscean moments of the whole Age, a time when the Piscean energy of the last two millennia comes together at a culminating point. The twelfth house of the Age, lasting for the page Astrologer OPA’s Quarterly Magazine 76 The Career The power of the Jupiter-Neptune con- in ways that then let us look forward to the junction as a marker to open the twelfth coming Age of Aquarius in an enlightened house of the Age of Pisces draws from spirit of realistic innovation, especially in numerous combining factors, beginning Our entry into forming shared understanding to stabilise with their natural affinity with Pisces as the twelfth house the climate so our world remains liveable. co-ruling planets. This event brings to an of our Age indicates This hinge point into the twelfth house end the eleventh house of the Age of of the Age has a deeply religious meaning, Pisces which began with the broad con- greater capacity possibly opening our eyes to the concealed junction of Jupiter and Neptune with for deep reflection, truths of the Christian message that has Saturn in Aquarius in 1843. The ‘House of dominated the Age of Pisces, and helping Aquarius’ has provided a governing energy overcoming the us to reflect on how the surface appearance for our planet for the last 178 years, placing shallow values of of Christianity has suffused our culture with Aquarian knowledge and technology with- technological what I would consider the political and in the broader context of Piscean belief. emotional fantasies of Christendom, which Some of the meaning of our time is consumer culture. often conflict with the deeper wisdom in captured by Robert Hand in Planets in the message of Christ. In my study, I have Transit, where he describes Neptune in the identified how astrology offers considerable twelfth house as a time of reflection and greater capacity for deep reflection, over- insight into the symbolic meaning con- deep inner concern, a time to evaluate coming the shallow values of technological cealed within Christian beliefs. I could argue if our life has been fulfilling or a shallow consumer culture. These transit interpreta- that the Bible authors have used the Zodiac spiritual masquerade, when we can work to tions have profound meaning for the com- Ages as their framework of time. My study find meaning in religion and faith through ing twelfth house of our current Zodiac Age, of such references enables me to place our intuition and sensitivity. Jupiter transit- helping to place spiritual insight within a understanding of Bible stories within the ing the twelfth house is interpreted by coherent and consistent system of thought. ‘big history’ of the cosmos. Robert Hand to signify beneficial capacity Jupiter’s expansive energy of spiritual Concentrated Piscean energy also to learn about the spiritual and religious growth can reinforce the mystical feeling occurred in 1524, when eight planets dimensions of life, bringing dispassionate of both Neptune and Pisces to foster an joined in Pisces at the dawn of the empathy to heal and help us find truth amazing depth of vision back over the two Protestant Reformation, and in 53 AD, when and wisdom. Our entry into the twelfth millennia of the Age of Pisces. This moment Saint Paul wrote his Epistles, with seven house of our Age therefore indicates could enable us to see the history of our Age planets in Pisces. (View charts 2 and 3).

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V30-02 JUNE SOLSTICE 2021 page 77 JUPITER in PISCES

TULIP to see how our connection to the cosmos is and place our scientific knowledge with- My model places the dawn of the Age at the core of our shared sense of meaning in a coherent ethical and cultural vision. of Pisces in 53-54 AD at the broad triple and purpose in life. Astrology is needed to Recognition of this spirit of connection conjunction of Jupiter, Saturn and Neptune connect human life to our cosmic context can open rich dialogue between astrol- in Pisces, with the Pisces-Aries equinox point on 22 March 54 AD representing the cusp of the year, the Age and the Great Year. The coming Jupiter-Neptune conjunc- tion recapitulates these spiritual energies. Comparing our time today with these past events shows that the conjunction of Jupiter and Neptune in Pisces brings a deeply spiritual energy (how do you dif- ferentiate spirituality and religion? Seems redundant to use both), generating insight into the larger orderly cosmic patterns and all encompassing mysteries of life. This astrological framework provides a natural way to interpret relationships that religions approach through language about God. in my view, this moment indicates the poten- tial for a religious transformation, building upon Christianity in ways that respect astrology, other spiritual beliefs, and mod- ern scientific knowledge. A complex factor in this coming con- junction of Jupiter and Neptune in Pisces arises from its threshold status, looking both back to the Age of Pisces and forward to the Age of Aquarius. The complexity Chart 2 appears in the relationship between the Aquarian principle of knowledge and the Piscean principle of belief. Sakoian and Acker in The Astrologer’s Handbook define the guiding theme of Pisces as “mystical compassionate belief” and the guiding theme of Aquarius as “innovative human- itarian knowledge.” If we consider these astrological principles as defining the zeit- geists of the respective Ages, we can readily see that the scientific spirit of Aquarius has grown in the womb of the religious spirit of Pisces. But until now, the culture of science has dismissed astrology with disdain, failing

Astrology is needed to connect human life to our cosmic context and place our scientific knowledge within a coherent ethical and

cultural vision. Chart 3

page Astrologer OPA’s Quarterly Magazine 78 The Career ogy, science, philosophy and religion. mandate of heaven through a new vig- planet, physically, ecologically, culturally, An astrological framework enables us to orous moral vision. This coming dynastic socially and spiritually. see religious ideas in primarily symbolic transition imagined in the shift of Zodiac The scale of Piscean fantasy and escap- rather than literal terms, connecting us to Ages should not be seen in military terms, ism even affects those who are trying to the cosmos and enabling discussion of but it does show how the obsolete visions alert us to the climate problem, in what I the scientific basis of astrology. that now rule world politics have failed to would consider a limited belief that just The coming Jupiter-Neptune conjunc- engage the primary security problems we cutting emissions of carbon dioxide could tion in Pisces therefore opens a prospect face, such as biocide and climate collapse. be enough to stabilise the temperature and of liberation from the repressive disdain To me, the COVID 19 pandemic is a clear stop the snowballing feedback systems that has prevented broader social conver- signal of how spending trillions of dollars now in train toward a hothouse earth. I s ation about the meaning of astrology. on weapons has diverted the world from a personally believe solutions require more Combining the emerging power of clear strategic focus on planetary stability radical measures. Aquarian knowledge with the spiritual and security. Our rulers are trying to fight The key issue, as astrologers should compassion of Pisces can help astrology the old wars of the last age when what is well understand, is that perhaps our plan- overcome the trauma of its isolation from needed is a movement of peaceful cooper- et is far more fragile and sensitive than is intellectual life, indicating the emergence ation to restore and repair the health of the assumed by prevailing attitudes. Astrology of philosophical analysis to construct a sees the sensitivity of the whole solar sys- new paradigm integrating astrology with tem coming together to impact our world science and religion. with the harmonic energies of planetary To illustrate how Christianity coheres The key issue, as alignments, which have provided the stable with the astrology of Zodiac Ages, one astrologers should and orderly context of our complex plane- example from the New Testament is the tary evolution over the four billion years of description of the process of the birth of a well understand, is life on earth. New Age by Saint Paul at Romans 8:21-2. that perhaps our Taking the climate crisis as a symbol of Paul writes “the creation itself will be deliv- planet is far more the change of thinking needed for the New ered from the bondage of corruption into Age, our prevailing world culture can be com- the glorious liberty of the children of fragile and sensitive pared to The Fool in tarot, treading foolishly God. For we know that the whole cre- than is assumed by along the brink of a climate precipice, liable ation groans and labours with birth pangs to fall in at any moment. The urgent need is to together until now.” What Paul here calls prevailing attitudes. step away from the tipping points that could the travail of creation, the birth pangs of cause a phase shift into a planetary hothouse, a New Age, well describes the energy of but the thinking of the old age is preventing this 2022 Jupiter-Neptune conjunction broad discussion of possible ways to address in Pisces. In my view, it enables us to see climate risks. I have outlined some of my per- that traditional Christianity has trapped spectives about this on my website and other the world in dogmatic literal beliefs, pre- publications. You can contact me if you are venting discussion of the deeper symbolic interested to further explore this perspective. meaning needed to bring us together into The conjunction of Jupiter and what the Bible calls ‘a new heaven and new Neptune in Pisces in April 2022 offers a earth’. Therefore, the old age now delivers spiritual moment of transformation where what Paul calls the ‘bondage of corruption’, planetary ideas about the clash between both moral and legal, while the New Age forward and backward thinking can emerge grows within the womb of the old age, and crystalise into awareness. This moment kicking forward with labour pains toward invites us to look back over the Age of Pisces the breaking of the waters and birth. A with new insight into its great advances and big part of that bondage to corruption its deluded fantasies, and forward into the and decay arising from old age thinking is Age of Aquarius as a time of repair and res- precisely how both science and religion toration, of planetary peace and truth, as we combine to suppress astrology, in a toxic gradually seek to build a world informed by pathology that flatly refuses to engage the shared values of love, justice and freedom. scientific problem studied by astrology of REFERENCES how we connect to the cosmos. 1. The Twelfth House of the Age of Pisces, by Robbie The expansive vision called into being Tulip, Organisation of Professional Astrologers Career by the Jupiter-Neptune conjunction sug- Astrologer Magazine Dec 2020 Edition: https://www. gests paradigm shifts that can be compared opaastrology.org/PUBLIC2020DECEM.pdf to the old Chinese political story of dynas- Robbie Tulip lives in Australia, and writes on the tic cycle, whereby an old dynasty became connections between astrology, religion, philoso- weak and corrupt, enabling a dynamic phy, climate and science at rtulip.net. leader to conquer the state, acquiring the R

V30-02 JUNE SOLSTICE 2021 page 79 Interview with OMARI Martin

PERSONAL

Share a little of your family and cultural background/envi- Then, in my early 20s, I started having spiritual experiences. I ronment. would think about someone and a few seconds later the phone I currently live in Chicago, Illinois, on the southside and have would ring and it would be that person. Sometimes, it would be family members in Chicago and Georgia. someone who I had not spoken with in over a year and this was I am a product of the Chicago Public School system and grew before caller ID. Also, I would have dreams about people. up in predominantly black neighborhoods in Chicago, particularly As a result of personal spiritual experiences and completing a public housing project called Stateway Gardens after my parents the Landmark Forum, referred to me by my life coach, I made the separated. My parents were not religious. Mother said her mother choice to be fully self-expressed in all the areas of my life, which had her in church so much as a child that she didn’t get a chance included embracing my heritage as a descendant of those of the to play outside with her friends. As an adult, she took a pass on African Diaspora. This was the beginning of my transformation the church experience. Daddy, who didn’t attend church, took me which included changing my hairstyle from an Afro to locks and to a Catholic church two or three times for Easter, and that wafer changing my name from Jomar Jun to OMARI. I wanted to step tasted awful. I would have spit it out had we not been in church. from behind Daddy’s shadow and no longer wanted to be called During the late 70s and early to mid-80s, the gospel music little Johnny or Johnny Jr. in the Black church was banging! I really wanted to go to church For me, OMARI means the Greatest Follower of Divine just to hear the choirs sing, and was much less interested in the Consciousness. It is a part of my legal name, which was changed preaching. when the Sun was transiting Scorpio and Mother was in the court- I want the whole world to know that I am still in communica- room with me when the Judge made it official. Yes, I capitalize the tion with my 6th grade teacher, Dr. Louise Coleman, and my 7th name OMARI intentionally. I shall make my mark upon the known grade Spanish teacher, Dr. Carmen Palmer. They continue to teach Universe, and better yet…the Multiverse! and mentor me. Both of them are Black women, who are accom- plished educators. And then there is your signature Pharaoh Omari -- care to share about Pharaoh Omari? Can you share if the name Omari is one you were given at birth, I have always adored Ancient Egyptian culture. Specifically, or one you chose to represent yourself? Its African/Arabic origins it is Pharaoh Amenhotep IV who was courageous and rebellious signify God, the Highest, and its Hebrew version signifies “he when he broke from established tradition by introducing mono- who speaks, talkative.” theism and moving the capital city. He changed his name from his I was born Johnny Lee Martin, Jr., after my daddy. As a little royal designation of Amenhotep IV to AKHENATEN. While the plan- boy and teenager, Daddy would call me Jomar Jun, which was a et Uranus had not been discovered yet, he was a rebel with a cause pet name for me and the short version of Johnny Martin, Jr. I was with a strong sense of independence (being Pharaoh helped) and his first born and a boy, so he was proud and it was a big deal for adopted this course of action for humanity. The high priests did him, based on his Southern upbringing. Mother wanted to name not like this course of action, but monotheistic religion did prevail. me Johnathan, which did honor my father. However, he showed In my family, it seems I broke tradition. I’m a professional up at the hospital after some refreshing beverages with the boys astrologer who has at times demonstrated psychic ability or (wink wink) and when the nurse asked, “What do you want to directly experienced psychic phenomenon. The Black Church name him?”. Daddy said/asked, “What’s my name?” As a teenager, I participated in Project F.A.M.E. (Female and Male Excellence) Upward Bound. There was a teacher, Cheeke, who would give you an African name at the end of the summer I made the choice to be fully program after you asked three people to write down one word to self-expressed in all the areas of my describe you. I participated in this program for two summers in life, which included embracing my a row and did not complete this task. At that time, I did not value having an African name. However, my dorm counselors during the heritage as a descendant of those of first summer were Kwesi and Omari. The name Omari really reso- the African Diaspora. nated with me and I liked it a lot.

page Astrologer OPA’s Quarterly Magazine 80 The Career as an institution has labeled Astrology as black magic or the work I do prefer the most powerful, god-like, and royal comic book char- of the devil. I was very secretive and hesitant to share with my acters. I play Star Wars Knights of the Republic role playing game family that I liked Astrology in the beginning. online in which my character is a Master Jedi named Amun-Heru, Today, they know all about my involvement speaking at watch the Superfriends, the Transformers Generation 1, Star Wars regional, national, and international conferences, serving on the – the Clone Wars, vampire movies (the Sun), werewolf movies (the boards of non-profit astrology organizations, and practicing the art Moon), and zombie movies (Pluto) too. I run model trains. The and science of Astrology, professionally. Also, both of my fraterni- Santa Fe Super Chief and El Capitan are my absolute favorite trains. ties Alpha Phi Alpha and the Prince Hall Masonic Order embrace This year I went horseback riding and it is my newest outdoor Ancient Egyptian culture. I adopted for myself Pharaoh OMARI recreation activity. Grand Seer of the Realm of Egyptadise™. In the past, I have hosted astrology parties and invitations were sent from Pharaoh OMARI. Your favorite places on earth? Miami, Florida - Houston, Texas - Hattiesburg, Mississippi - and Did you have a vision for yourself in your teenage or early adult Tempe & Tucson, Arizona. years? If so, what was it and how did it change? Yes, I did have one. As a freshman in college, I wanted to How do you see yourself personally growing/evolving? graduate with my bachelor’s degree specializing in accounting, I see myself conducting scholarly research that will benefit become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), join, at that time, one astrologers. I want to become a beekeeper and plan to start this of the Big 6 accounting firms, and make partner one day. Oh well, in a couple of years. Last fall, I planted red and yellow tulips. The it didn’t happen. After what seems to be a hundred attempts to results this spring were beautiful. obtain a position as an accountant, something blocked progress on that path. I changed paths and have been teaching finance and accounting classes for over 10 years. In addition, I’ve become a professional astrologer too. YOUR ASTROLOGY

Educational background? PR A CTICE I have a Bachelor of Business Administration degree Where do you currently live and practice? from Howard University, a Master of Accounting & Financial I currently live in Chicago, Illinois and meet with clients and Management degree from the Keller Graduate School of students via the internet. Management, and am currently working on a Ph.D. in Business Management at Capella University. I’m a certified teacher with the How long have you been practicing? Church of Light and certified practitioner of neurolinguistic pro- It has been 25 years since I offered natal chart services for gramming (NLP) with the Association of Integrative Psychology. $40.00. Spiritual orientation: Do you currently align with any tradition What have been your livelihoods as you have transitioned into and/or follow any specific practice? doing astrology professionally? No, I do not currently align with any tradition. I do believe I have worked in higher education for the past 15+ years in in a Supreme Being/Supreme Force. I’m vegetarian and prefer to two different roles as a dean and currently as a college professor be vegan. teaching finance, accounting, and banking courses. What’s the most challenging/difficult thing about you (for others Was there an astrological AHA moment or two, when you knew and/or yourself)? this path was for you? I am learning how beneficial it is to request assistance, espe- In a moment of reflection to answer this question, it seems cially when it is needed. that based on my collective experiences as an astrologer this is that moment. What’s the best thing about you?... If there are several, go for it! I’m willing to coach another when the chips are down to Your prime Astrology teachers/ influences? inspire them to see what’s possible and create a new action plan to My prime Astrology teachers are Christine Arens, LPTMAFA, produce the desired results. NCGR-PAA III and Norman Arens, FAFA, PMAFA. They taught me how to calculate spherical trigonometric functions so I could erect You never tried… a chart by hand. While I never met them personally, Marion D. Jumping out of an airplane or skiing…no thanks! March and Joan McEvers wrote “The Only Way to Learn Astrology” 6-volume set of books, which really helped me on my journey. With You can’t refuse… Volume 1, I was able to pass the chart delineation and synthesis Eating los maduros (fried plantains) and peach fried pies. part of the Advanced Member exam with the American Federation of Astrologers. What constitutes re-creation/playtime for you? I read DC comic books and my favorite hero is Superman. He’s Your Astrology hero/heroes? powered by the Sun. From Marvel comic books, my favorites are I would give credit to a heroine. The one and only Evangeline Storm – Mistress of the Elements, Magneto – Master of Magnetism, Adams! She took a tremendous risk in the court room that day, and the Mighty Thor – god of Thunder and wielder of Mjolnir. Yes,

V30-02 JUNE SOLSTICE 2021 page 81 Interview with OMARI Martin and she prevailed for the benefit of Astrology and astrologers the academic journals, to earn at least $100,000 per year as a pro- world over! I/we owe her a debt of eternal gratitude. fessional astrologer, to film a documentary about astrology that is Oscar® worthy and wins it, to use Electional Astrology to 3 (or more) favorite Astrology books/resources? win one of the highest Powerball Jackpots ever, and to write a “The Only Way to Learn Astrology” by March and McEvers book about astrology. I want to learn about Financial Astrology. “Astrology: A Cosmic Science” by Isabel Hickey “The Only Astrology Book You’ll Ever Need” by Joanna Woolfolk OMARI, IN THE “The Magic of Electional Astrology” by J. Lee Lehman, Ph.D. PROFESSIONAL ASTROLOGY “Sibley’s Astrology” I was gifted with an original copy pub- lished in 1784 complete with quill pen autographs. COMMUNITY

Do you have particular areas of focus in your practice, in client What aspirations/visions do you have for the profession of work or teaching? astrology as a whole? Yes, I have particular areas of focus in my practice which I have a vision that Kepler College will become accredited as include the following: Natal Astrology including progressions and a vocational institution with an endowment and with an alumni transits, Electional Astrology, Vocational Astrology, Mundane body that moves the profession of astrology forward. This vision Astrology, and ASTROPRENEURSHIP®. also includes Fortune 500 companies hiring certified professional astrologers. For the record, I always take a stand for certification What do you feel is your greatest accomplishment to date in your for astrologers. Speaking of which, all professions have standards, astrology career? such as medical, legal, and accounting. They all have an exam- I feel I have a few great accomplishments to date; first, taking ination one can take after completion of specific education and passing two 8-hour exams with the American Federation of requirements. Astrology should not be an exception. Astrologers to become a certified professional astrologer. Second, becoming the first African American to serve as presi- dent of the Friends of Astrology, Inc., founded in 1938. Third, becoming the first African American to serve as board chair of Kepler College of the Astrological Arts & Sciences; fourth, writing and teaching a course at Kepler College called ASTROPRENEURSHIP® which is also a registered servicemark with the U. S. Patent & Trademark Office.

What do you experience as the great thing ... and the hard thing about being an astrologer? The great thing I experience about being an astrologer is OMARI and Linda in being an astrologer. New Delhi, 2019 The hard thing I experience about being an astrologer is being an astrologer. There are times when I have good or great news to share with a client and there are times when I do not have good or great news to share with a client. It is with the latter that I make lemonade with the lemons for the client’s benefit.

What are your future aspirations for yourself in the field of astrology... to accomplish and/or to learn? My future aspirations are to become a board member of the American Federation of Astrologers, to have my research about astrologers published in scholarly written peer-reviewed

All professions have standards, such as medical, legal, and accounting. They all have an examination one can take after completion of specific education requirements. Astrology should not be an exception.

page Astrologer OPA’s Quarterly Magazine 82 The Career Interview with OMARI Martin

Diversity and inclusion are currently central topics, in and out- meals, and incidentals. Based on what I know, Kepler College offers side the astrology community... That given, what has been your a diversity scholarship to cover tuition costs and NORWAC offers experience as an astrologer who is ethnically black? In what a diversity scholarship as well. These efforts make a difference. ways, if at all, has race been a factor in your training, experience, Diversity is something that can be discerned based on what is and practice? observed or seen at face value. Outside the astrology community, each and every offer of gain- Based on my observation, NORWAC 2021 seems to be the ful employment and promotion opportunity was always afforded to most diverse in terms of speakers ever at any astrology conference. me by black women and white women and black men. Out of ALL This is certainly progress. At the same time, any individual from any the times I was interviewed by a white man for a gainful employ- category we chose to identify with or label ourselves by must be ment opportunity, the offer was NEVER extended to me. Generally able to effectively engage in public speaking, professionally inter- speaking, I had the same bachelor's and master’s degrees and rel- act with an audience with friendliness, and know more than just evant professional experience presented to all the interviewers/ kitchen table astrology. The conference organizers are stakeholders managers. In my experience, I would go so far as to say this is as well as the speakers and the attendees. probably an example of systemic racism and structural racism. Within the astrology community, I have been afforded sev- What inspires you to be an OPA member? eral opportunities to continue to grow and develop not only as The focus on professional astrology, “The Career Astrologer” a professional astrologer but as a human being. I have spoken at journal, and the i-Astrologer Conference in 2018 inspired me to NORWAC, UAC, OPA, ISAR, AAGB, the Indian Institute of Oriental become a life member of OPA. Also, I appreciate OPA’s approach Heritage, several chapters of NCGR, and local astrology groups too, to certification which is qualitative instead of quantitative. namely the Friends of Astrology. Two articles I wrote about astrolo- gy have been published in astrology journals. I serve on boards of Any advice for those who would like to become professional a couple of astrology organizations. I have a certified professional astrologers? astrologer, who is my mentor and provides guidance, to help me Yes, I would advise that one identify a professional astrologer chart and navigate my career as a professional astrologer. She has who is willing to provide mentorship. Also, identify 2 or 3 peers to never been wrong! I have met some professional astrologers who grow up with as you become a professional astrologer. I looked up to for a few years before speaking at conferences and Develop a high level of proficiency with natal astrology. After serving on boards with them. that, select one or two specialty areas of astrology, such as Horary Astrology. Without question pursue certification with AFA, OPA, Do you think that the astrology profession could do more to be NCGR-PAA, and/or ISAR. Some astrologers have 3 of them or all 4 of inclusive and diverse? If so, how? them. There are a couple of international organizations to consider Yes, I think the astrology profession could do more to be for certification too. inclusive and diverse. I suspect a part of the issue is economics. Be willing to give back to the astrology community through The amount of one’s disposable income can have a direct bear- volunteerism. Serve on a board of a large astrology organization or ing on the ability to attend astrology conferences when there is a local astrology group or volunteer to assist at an astrology confer- the registration cost, a round trip plane or train ticket, hotel costs, ence. These are very good ways to build your network. Learn about how to be an ethical astrologer in all the work you do. Be an asset to our community as a life-long learner. Make a contribution so big that we all experience its benefits. I would chal- lenge you to do something favorable that no other astrologer has ever done before.

May the Great Architect of the Universe continue to Bless You and All that You Hold Dear! Grand Trines, Pharaoh OMARI – The Greatest Follower of Divine Consciousness and Grand Seer of the Realm of Egyptadise™

C O N TA CT

Email: [email protected] Website: www.soularwisdom.com

Thank you for sharing yourself!

Chicago

V30-02 JUNE SOLSTICE 2021 page 83 page Astrologer OPA’s Quarterly Magazine 84 The Career CANADIAN ASTROLOGY CONFERENCE 2021 Join this stellar lineup Integrating Ancient of Canadian Astrologers as we bridge the gap between Ancient and Modern Astrology practice and Modern Astrology William Morris • Nadiya Shah • Rose Marcus Join us for this online event Nick Dagan Best • Michael Barwick • Tamira McGillivray Matthew Currie • Aerin Fogel • Kimberly Jolivet SEPTEMBER 24 - 26, 2021 Melanie Joy • Rey Dela Merced and Guests Gaisheda Kheawok • Madame Popo Featured Guest and Keynote Speaker: DEMETRA GEORGE

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V30-02 JUNE SOLSTICE 2021 page 85 OPA, The Organization for Professional Astrology, is dedicated to promoting Accessibility, Sustainability, and Credibility for astrologers. Incorporated on October 4, 2000 at 1:45 pm EDT in Tallahassee, Florida, OPA provides members with opportunities and tools to study astrology and establish or improve their astrological practice. Membership is open to any level of expertise. Among the benefits: free presentations and panels by top notch astrologers, opportunities to be published in The Career Astrologer magazine, and being part of a global community of astrologers through conferences and online discussions. Annual dues are $60.00.

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[email protected] Lisa Jones [email protected] VICE PRESIDENT BRAZIL/PORTUGAL UPCOMING Maurice Fernandez Marcia Ferreira [email protected] [email protected] ASTROLOGY TREASURER CANADA Anne Ortelee Donna Young CONFERENCES [email protected] [email protected] Geni Picazo SEPTEMBER 2021 INTERNAL PROGRAM DIRECTOR [email protected] Geoff Gronlund 17–19 Embracing the Community: [email protected] CHILE A Celebration of Astrologies Alice Thomas Suhr [email protected] ONLINE PROGRAM DIRECTOR 24-26 Astrology, Consciousness, Carol Dimitrov FINLAND and the Great Shift Conference [email protected] Anne Sundell Omega Institute, Rhinebeck, NY astroservice.fi/en/ MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY https://www.eomega.org/workshops/ Geni PIcazo GREECE astrology-consciousness-the-great-shift [email protected] Angela Tiki [email protected] RECORDING SECRETARY OCTOBER 2021 ISRAEL Stormie Grace 29 – 31 Astrology Association (UK), [email protected] Naama Rothem [email protected] Potions for the Future EVENT COORDINATOR MEXICO https://www.astrologicalassociation. Angelina Gronlund Ursula Stockder com/conference-2021/ [email protected] [email protected] PUBLICATIONS DIRECTOR SWEDEN MARCH 2022 William Sebrans Margareta Hedin VIBRATIONAL ASTROLOGY [email protected] 4 – 6 [email protected] CONFERENCE (Florida) NORWAY EDUCATION DIRECTOR http://www.astrosoftware.com/confer- Katharina Westblikk Arlan Wise [email protected] ence/va2022.html [email protected] SOUTH AFRICA MAY 2022 ETHICS AND LIAISON Nathan Theodore Naicker Alexandra Karacostas [email protected] I-ASTROLOGER [email protected] Elena Porciani van Baalen (details to come) [email protected] OPA APPOINTED DIRECTORS TURKEY - SUPPORT TO THE OPA BOARD Öner Döşer Louise Edington, Media Director [email protected] [email protected] UK Gemma Harwood [email protected] Tracie Storey [email protected] OPAastrology.org page Astrologer OPA’s Quarterly Magazine 86 The Career Join OPA’s Community Board Group on Facebook for Astrology Announcements, Blogs, Events, and Musings www.facebook.com/groups/OPAcommunity

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V30-02 JUNE SOLSTICE 2021 page 87 2021 FREE Online Presentations for OPA Members!

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