The Temple of the Sun | Temple of the Cosmic Spheres

Archive for the The Temple of the Sun Category

New Moon in Cancer – Arms Wide Open

Posted in Auspicious Days, Esbat, New Moon, The Temple of the Sun with tags astrology, cancer, cardinal, celestial, cosmic, Esbat, esoteric writings, new moon, Temple of the Sun on June 27, 2014 by themagickalpen

June 27.2014

New Moon in Cancer
4:08 a.m.

The Moon enters its New phase in the wee hours of the morning in the astrological sign of Cancer. The waters are running high as the blaze of the Sun in Cancer aligns with the coolness and healing of Mother Moon. Their dance is one of new lovers excited by the simple thought of being held in the loving embrace of their beloved. Additionally, we have the influence of three (3) other planets in water signs, two of which remain Retrograde:

Jupiter is in the astrological sign of Cancer. Expansion of what flows within our emotional reserves and emphasis on the energy of ebb and flow, receipt and release are the work of Jupiter. Jupiter is strongly related to abundance and financial gain, so how we feel and what expansive response we have regarding our finances may reach the point of overflow.

Neptune remains Retrograde in the astrological sign of Pisces and is the King of the tidal seas. We have been feeling these effects beginning on the 9th of this month, adding a deeper well to draw from and to dive into.Read more about the Neptune Retrograde here:

Lifting the Veil

Saturn remains Retrograde in the astrological sign of Scorpio. Order, structure and refining what has held us captive in the cavernous prisons of our own sea-caves has been the disruptive tsunami that may have risen to epic proportions beginning with its station on March 2nd.

And, although not in a Water sign, don’t forget that Mercury remains retrograde (stations Direct on July 1st.) in the latter stage of its pause. So, everything is up for debate, scrutiny and snafus of understanding. Add the emotions to this brew and there is the potential for over reacting and wasting valuable emotional reserves in restoring a calm perspective.

Interestingly, with these assignations, the alchemical element of Water is represented by all three of its modalities of expression. The Cardinal (Cancer) energies of initiating and stimulating the aspects of heart, emotion and ultimately, desire are held within the polarities of Sun and Moon and the progeny of their co-mingling in the expansive nature of Jupiter. The Fixed (Scorpio) and stable energy of creating a worthy vessel to traverse these at times turbulent and deep seas is held with Saturn’s steering of the course. And, the Mutable (Pisces) gifts of rebirthing what lacks empathy and compassion is raised to the surface of light by Neptune’s Trident of Fire and Will. With all of this water in abundance, there is maximum potential for surrendering to the natural ebb and flow of relationships and partnerships and to also allow for the organic erosion of those shorelines that have kept the greater portion of a sea filled with extraordinary life from touching the heart-stone of our longing for home and family.

The New Moon is an excellent time to begin workings that require the energy of the initial flow needed for beginnings. One of the correlates would be the energy of the sunrise or dawn. A new day is a beginning that is packed full with the potential to become whatever you desire most by the time it reaches the fullness of mid-day. So too, the lunar cycle of the New Moon offers the opportunity to harness the energy of expansion towards the fullest expression of what you wish to bring into manifestation at the Full Moon.

Given the comfort that Cancer takes from drawing to itself a nurturing space, workings that have the intended goal of seeking out suitable and supportive environments and people that will allow you to thrive will benefit from this energy. The expansiveness of Jupiter’s energy in the sign of this action offers the flexibility of what you wish to be so to adapt in accord with the waxing of the moon and carrying forward of this goal towards fullness. Neptune’s gift of Pisces is one of deep intuitive healing that will insure that what is achieved has weathered the storms and knows the need for compassion in forging ahead. And, Saturn guides the flow of effort so that what needs release may effectively loosen its hold as the waters flow smoothly and unhindered.

Arms Wide Open and Hands Filled With Love

On the eve of this New Moon I’ll be meeting with our coven to discuss our future and what we need to nurture and tend to keep us healthy and whole. This is my spiritual family and the sacred space that is created simply by the presence of those others within our Tradition is the home I have chosen to serve within. These experiences are what provide the sense of stability and care that enable us to move out into the greater world knowing that there are welcoming arms always awaiting us and the encouraging touch of hands that are filled with love.

Next Post:

Sun in Cancer – A Home on the Tree
Sunday, July 5.2014

Resources:

For a refresher about moon magick and a new poem check out my other blog, The Magickal Pen:

Moon Magick – Healing Waters

Another New Moon in Cancer 2013

Read more here in the Temple of the Moon

Day One: Flowing Through the New Moon

Take Me Home- The Sun in Cancer

Posted in Auspicious Days, Retrogrades, The Temple of the Sun with tags astrology, cancer, cardinal, celestial, cosmic, esoteric writings, fixed modality, Neptune Retrograde, Retrograde, Temple of the Moon, Temple of the Sun on June 21, 2014 by themagickalpen

Sun in Cancer

6.21/2014
6:51 am (EDT)

Planetary Ruler: Moon

Summer Solstice

Mysterious Course

Follow the stream
As it weaves on its own
Mysterious course.

Moon rises and waters
Of life ebb and flow back
To the shore of foundation.

Emotion wells up and
Spills out strongly changing
Everything in its path.

Relax into the current
And trust in the
Depth of its reach
The waters will heal
If you sink into their
Loving embrace.

The Sun transits into the astrological sign of Cancer, early this morning. The world will be awakening from the dreamscape and early morning rituals of preparing for work, breakfast, getting children off for activities and everything that speaks of home life and family is just beginning the day. This is appropriate timing for the Sun’s transit into the astrological sign that is the quintessential symbol of hearth and home.

The astrological sign of Cancer is one of the element of Water and the Cardinal Modality. Its planetary ruler is the Moon, whose qualities of emotion, intuition and healing nurtured by the Great Mother are overt in our mundane and spiritual efforts. The natural energy of Father Sun, that of shedding great light on whatever is in its spectrum is now cooled and comforted by the soothing waters of Mother Cancer’s natural gifts.

This solar month offers an opportunity to settle back into the arms of what nurtures you. There is maximum potential for the healing of old wounds, crafting new and deeply fulfilling relationships and feeling the warmth of Summer’s Sun enveloping you in the same warmth of a loving embrace. The astrological sign of Cancer brings this energy to the place of new beginnings and fresh starts as we explore what motivates us at an emotional level and who and what we consider home.

Additionally, this Solar month is an opportunity for alignment of the polarities of Sun and Moon (ruling sign of Cancer). This alignment occurs at the level of the mundane as well as the spiritual. When we feel safe, secure and nurtured (Moon/Cancer) we go on to display these same qualities to all we meet, shining brightly and magnetically attracting more of the same (Solar).

The caution is one of overindulging the emotional aspects to the point of overflow and over sensitivity. Feelings can quickly overtake us when it comes to family (and friends) and what was meant to keep connection flowing can quickly turn to smothering and stagnant waters. Digging deeply into our emotional reserves brings much satisfaction in the long run, but diving head first into waters that have not been tested for appropriate depth can produce a broken spirit that requires long and masterful healing.

All of the Water signs fully embrace the ebb and flow of the emotional tides. Cancer not only embraces, but to a large degree embodies water at its most human and vulnerable level of expression. We all wish for a loving home life and fulfilling relationships. This is not the selflessness of Pisces (also Water) that prefers to provide that home or the expectation of Scorpio (also Water) that believes it to be their right. In the case of Cancer this is the seeking of affirmation that they are indeed lovable unconditionally. If this awareness is achieved by loving oneself in this way and is tended well and nurtured this is the greatest gift that astrological Cancer can bestow.

The Element of Water

The Water signs express themselves through the filter and guidance of emotions. These are the most intuitive of the signs and can also be the most emotionally overwrought if care is not taken to set boundaries in place. In the sign of astrological Cancer, water is most at home moving with the ebb and flow of the moon’s pace. Those born under the sign of Cancer are generally homebodies and loyal to a fault that seek connection at the deepest of the emotional levels. These are the outpourings from the womb of creation.

A Cardinal Modality

As we have seen the energy of the Cardinal signs is one of catalyzing and initiating new beginnings. The first Cardinal sign we encountered was appropriately one of Fire and served to begin the cycle of the Zodiacal wheel and Solar Year. The initiating quality of this sign was one similar to that of striking a match, setting fire to the will to create and providing the fuel to carry that intent forward.

The Cardinal energy expressed through a Water sign initiates the emotions in a way of pushing the boundaries of these waters out beyond what would hold them hidden in the subconscious. This is the catalyzing of longing and yearning which ultimately will produce the vessel of receipt that brings to term the desired goal.

Be gentle as you rush out
Spilling greedily from
What has been opened.

My heart reaches out fervently
Seeking the embrace of home.

Oceans fill my cup of
Yearning to know the
First stirrings of love.

I am cast about on
Waters that bubble up
Tumultuous at times
Hungering for a companion.

Let these waters of need
Erode away the shores of
What holds me back from
Reaching those I hold dear.

Let the waters flow
Fully and deeply that
Carry me home to you.

The Next Step

Knowing how each sign moves to the next and the interaction between each as they evolve towards completion (and threshold of renewal) of the wheel in the astrological sign of Pisces tells its own unique story of the Wheel of Time. When we reach the last sign of the zodiacal wheel, Pisces, we will have experienced four (4) rounds of the three forms of energy expressed as the modalities (Cardinal-Fixed-Mutable). Maintaining the idea of the evolving dynamics of each of the Zodiacal signs as we move through the solar year, so too, the Triad of Modalities gains a more momentum, maturity and focus of application as we move through each of these rounds.

Cancer is the fourth* sign of the Zodiac, and begins a new Triad of the Modalities Cardinal to Fixed to Mutable, each flowing into the other. Being of the Cardinal Modality, the quality of Cancer is that of beginnings and catalytic flow. These are the first bubblings up of what will become a life giving stream of water. These are the first and tentatively offered words of love offered to one you hope will become a lover. This energy is the first bond made between mother and new baby as precious mouth cries out for the nourishing flow of Mother’s milk and comforting breast.

If we look at the dynamics of energy thus far, beginning with the Cardinal sign of Aries, we could think of the three signs that begin the astrological wheel as the quickening fires (Aries- Fire) within the body of manifestation (Taurus- Earth) that gives rise to aspiring towards the heavens (Gemini- Air). Arrival at the next iteration of a new cycle of the Triad of Modalities and beginning this new flow in the sign of Cancer aligns mind with heart and the ultimate catalyzing of what stands fully in the Light of day.

* The number 4 represents stability and foundation. This is the geometric shape of the square; equilateral sides that support and provide a stable base to expand in any direction. This is the quality of Cancer. The love we know (or lack of) plays a great role in how stable and anchored we feel in all of our subsequent relationships. The work of Cancer is restructuring and shoring up our emotional foundations so that we thrive and are able to love and be loved.

The Moon is the Ruling Planet of Cancer. Just as the tides move in a pattern of ebb and flow, so too does the energy of Cancer in affecting the mood and emotional tone of any situation. The natural tendency of Cancerian energy is that of creating foundations that flow and move in accord with what is felt. Safety and security, particularly at an emotional level are a requirement for movement out of that comfort zone to occur. The ease with which this occurs is based in what is considered home with those thought of as family being high on the list of priorities in any consideration. Trust and feeling comfortable in any situation are also attributes that require cultivation when Cancer is in full force. This is prime energy for cultivating deep and lasting connections to what you truly love and feeling secure enough in that love that you are willing to put yourself (emotionally) out there.

Read more about the dynamics of the Moon and Her changeable face in:

The Temple of the Moon

Preparing the Way

At this time of the year in the Northern hemisphere, we celebrate the Summer Solstice and the vibrancy of life and all that has come to fruition. This is the space of the year where we gather to celebrate educational achievements, weddings, vacations and any special occasions that offer us opportunity to be with those we cherish. We geared up for this outreach in the previous month of Gemini as we moved outdoors and became more expressive in the ways we connected and communicated. Now we link the heart of follow through in the plans and promises we made and the ways we have chosen to express our appreciation and pride in those near and dear. The vibrancy of the Sun and the heart focused energy of Cancer lights the way to safe harbor. Home becomes the place of picnics and barbecues and we gather our stores of all the sunshine and moments of interaction; knowing that the Light is waning and the home and emotional ease we have created will be our sanctuary in the winter storms ahead.

In the Southern Hemisphere the emphasis is on the beginning of the Waxing year and the return of increasingly longer sunlit and warmer days. The generating of ideas and the flow of communication expressed in the previous month was one of introspection sheltered from the cold as the armchair inventor and awaiting the burgeoning light of the upcoming Solstice. Now, as the Solar Year transits into the comfort of Cancer, what has offered the comfort of home and family is ready to be infused us as we enter a state of enlivened and newly birthed light within. These foundations of emotional stability and resource will serve well as we venture outdoors with the coming of Imbolc and Spring.

Both are states of movement and require the flexibility of expansion and contraction. This is the ebb and flow of Mother Moon and the opening to her gifts of healing and emotional attachment. The lessons of relationship gained by lighting up those emotional bonds with the outer world (Summer Solstice) or of the inner self (Winter Solstice) have opportunity to reach deeply into the core of who we are as we heal and transform how we “feel” our way through our lives. The goal is one of stimulating the flow of these precious waters to soothe and heal what will receive the full expression of strengthening and Light in the months ahead. This state paves the way for the next phase of growth and expansion when the Sun transits next into the Fixed sign of Leo (whose ruling planet is the Sun! We’re Going to Heat it Up!).

Read more about the Solstices their dynamics of Light:
WitchVox: Sabbat Articles and Poems

It’s All About the Feeling

As we transit into the Solar month of Cancer, the planets – Mercury, Saturn, Pluto and Neptune remain retrograde. The emphasis here is on the Neptune Retrograde and its watery connection to Cancer. Neptune is the ruler of the third of the Watery astrological signs, Pisces. If we wish to think chronologically, Cancer is the child who seeks the approval of family and thrives in a home that is loving, supportive and caring. Scorpio (the second water sign) is the young adult who seeks attachment in a more mature and often sexual way; seeking those partnerships that may evolve into the creation of what they desire their familial and home life to be. Pisces (the third water sign and last of the Zodiacal wheel) is the elder, who has memories of lovers and loves past, knows the expanse of their emotions and freely gives those healing waters to all in need.

This added emphasis raises the waters of our intuitive and feeling nature as we move through the Solar Month. These are the waters that allow all that you wish and hope for to be energized and supported by what you have learned about yourself through past experience and relationship. These are the waters that allow you to be fully present as you create your own space of nurturing. These are the waters that run strong and free carrying you to parts of yourself, yet unknown.

Read more about Neptune’s Retrograde:
Lifting the Veil- Neptune Retrograde

Take Me Home:

This solar month is one of connecting more deeply to family, friends and home as you relax into the healing waters that nurture and sustain you. In the chronology of the Zodiac, this is the space of time to reassess, strengthen and re-forge the bonds to those we offer our devotion and loyalty to, both mundanely and spiritually. This is also the time to allow the drifting away from you that which keeps you submerged and anchored in a way that is not productive. This is the emotional phase of the teenager who sees the world through eyes that are still trusting and at times leave them open to heartache and hurt. This is the space of first loves and having the security of family which allows you to stray a little further away from that base as you explore the world around you. Instinct and intuition are just beginning to mature and hormones flood bodies that live in a world of emotional drama and angst as they seek to define who they are.

And, so in the spirit of Cancer’s intuitive and unpredictable waters and we call forth the energy of the Sun as it continues its zodiacal cycle, once again we repeat the invocation that opened the Gate to this Temple. As you read through it think back to passions and dreams of your teen years. Think back to the perception you had of everything flowing easily through your grasp as these running waters soothed emotions that were heated and unpredictable. Think back to the joys and sorrows and the reliable and comforting support of those you considered family. Think back to what you called home; it may have been your best friend’s house, a favorite hang-out, or the venue of an after school activity (for me it was the theater and ballet studio).

What keys to the greater knowledge of RA’s power of sustained light is hidden within the heart that has felt the gift of family? This is the gift of finding your place in the world and the power of sharing this gift with others as you walk this journey of life. Use this gift wisely this month as we invoke the Solar month in Cancer and allow those fires of RA to move through you as the healing waters of enlivened energy that calls you home.

Hymn to RA

All Hail to Thee, Mighty RA
Blaze of noon day sun.
Your fiery orb high in the
Sky above as we kneel
Beneath the heat of
Your radiance.

All the Gods bow to your radiance
All the Goddesses sing hymns of praise
To Your glory and man
Lays prostrate in humility
And devotion at the altar of
Your making.

Sweet music of adoration and offerings
Brought forth from the Black Land
Rise up in praise and thanks for
Your Sustaining Light.

All darkness flees at the touch of Your hand
All ceases its movement as Your expansive
Rays stretch across the morning sky.

The lotus opens to receive Your Touch
And the sands glisten as rare jewels
As You gaze upon each grain washed
Clean in the boundless ocean that
Reflects the brilliance of your face.

All Hail to Thee
Amun-RA
All Hail to Thee
Who sits high
Above the world.

Khepra in the East
Atum in the West
Whose eye holds the
Point of Life and the
Trifold Arc of Power.

Your eyes see all and
You are the place of return
Within the glowing blackness
Of the Midnight Sun.

All Hail to Thee
All Hail to Thee
Amun, Amun, Amen!

Next Posting: Friday, June 26th.

With Arms Wide Open – New Moon in Cancer

and

Bonus Pathworking: The Hall of Cancer

The Magick of Gemini

Posted in The Temple of the Sun with tags Air, astrology, cosmic, duality, esoteric writings, Full moon, gemini, Magick, new moon, Temple of the Sun, Waning Dark Moon on June 8, 2014 by themagickalpen

The Magick of Gemini is based in the realms of the mental and creation of an outcome that is flexible and adaptable in its inventive style. Whatever we apply Geminian energy towards is going to receive the advantage of keen perception and the ability to swiftly communicate what it needs to complete the cycle of seed thought to finished product. Its strength lay in being able to change course as new ideas emerge from a seemingly never ending stream of flow. This can also be a detriment, if the breaks are not put on soon enough and a final determination is made. Indecisiveness, largely from being able to see many views is a caution. However, any workings that require a think tank type of kick-start receive the greatest boost from Gemini’s energy.

Gemini works directly on the Nervous System (it is after all our communication center), so workings that require a calming or slowing down of hyperactivity are best served by using Gemini’s energy during the phases of Waning Lunar or Solar month energy. Similar to a homeopathic approach of like negating like (remember the attribution of Twins to this astrological sign) focus of release of excess nervous energy can be quite effective. Conversely, using Gemini’s action during a Waxing phase (Lunar or Solar Month) can rev up a sluggish decision making process that may be waylaid by too much emotional impact and not enough pure logic. Think of this like receiving a Vitamin-B booster shot to restore energy.

Additionally, Gemini can be used quite effectively in assessing personal health. The symbol of the Caduceus that is associated with Mercury and the healing profession speaks to the healing power found in obtaining the needed information for accurate diagnosis and subsequent treatment. Scanning your body in meditation and asking the aid of Mercury and Gemini’s clarity in seeking out areas of dis-ease is a routine practice that many on a spiritual path make use of. THIS PRACTICE DOES NOT REPLACE SEEKING THE ADVICE OF A MEDICAL PRACTITIONER, but our bodies are dynamic in their own information systems and learning to attune to what our bodies are telling us regarding health, diet and the ways in which we use them can be quite purposeful in bodily awareness.

Solar Month Magick

Enhances exploration of how you think and what forms of expression this thought process will ultimately make use of:

Gemini as the third sign of the Solar Year concerns itself with the intellect and the pursuits of mental expansion and flexibility. The Solar Month of Gemini is an excellent time to begin enhancing the mental faculties, pursue further education/study or ponder the effects of inventive mind on creating a more wholistic worldview that takes into consideration the heart as well as the mind. This is also a time for testing the limits of what your effects are on those you interact with motivated by what you perceive to be your true base of knowledge. The energy of this Solar month of Gemini, next flows into the deep emotional waters of Cancer, so whatever progress is made at a mental level will be called to the task of defining itself through feeling your way in moving forward.

This approach can be used for short-term projects, but is most effective for long-term workings. A goal such as wanting to develop and refine your skills of communication or begin an educational project benefits from beginning its cycle while the Sun is in Gemini.

Similar to the New, Full and Waning cycles of the Lunar Month, beginning the working in the Solar Month of Gemini would be the first phase of stimulating the inventive aspects of the mental process. This may take the form of continuing an education goal, planning a new project (or business venture), or simply plotting out a course of how to more effectively exchange ideas.

Using the cycle of Air and those astrological signs of that element the next point of bolstering the energy would be during Libra. The Solar Month of Libra stands as the Full phase of the mental (Air) energy, and signals readiness to bring to a state of balance those options that have blossomed as the layers of mind reveal more detail about what the possible outcomes may be. Libra is of a Cardinal modality so the opportunity to hone in on a singular goal and move forward with the refined product is at hand.

The stable energy of Aquarius (the last of the Air signs) would serve as the point of coalescing the information acquired and elevate it to the level of use for the broader good. The Aquarian focus is one of seeing the bigger picture, recognizing it for its potential and then offering it up in the visionary style that is of benefit to the greater collective.

Lunar Magick

Engages the movement of ideas through the waters of the subconscious as mind and heart interact:

Use of Lunar energy in the astrological sign of Gemini provides the energetic principle of the breath of creation on the emotional waters that birth the great inventions and inspired actions. Gemini provides the opportunity for coalescing what the mind conceives of and what the heart desires. The natural comfort zone of Gemini is relying on wit and strategy with the emotional responses being secondary. Aligning the Moon’s healing and intuitive force with the mental agility of Gemini draws up from the subconscious those places of “knowingness” that are Divinely inspired and informed by feeling and logic.

Workings that desire the goal of quickening the mental processes, opening to creative communication, healings and business interactions aptly make use of Gemini’s energy. Improvements that are relevant to how you express yourself and what is created from that expression also benefit from Gemini’s application.

The New Moon of Gemini could be used to set up the foundation for beginning the process of being able to express yourself more clearly and with more flexibility. You would spend some time deciding upon which area of your life you would like this support to be given. Sit down and brainstorm how you would be best served by this enhancement. And, once settled upon, begin the process of taking action towards this goal.

The Full Moon would reinforce the steps taken and bring to light the achievements made thus far. The opportunity to refine and add more clarity to what has evolved moves strongly through the ideas that come to the surface and the rationale for continuing to feed them stands in the strength of this fullness. And, the Waning Moon’s energy would be used to release what remains as mental obstacles in allowing you to bring clarity to your communications. This is the time to further tweek and modify what has been learned and formulate a logical conclusion that will sustain your efforts.

Some Additional Astrological properties of Gemini

Keywords: Intellect; agility; education; knowledge, changeability.

The Archetype: The Jester is the archetype associated with Gemini. This exemplifies the aspect of Geminians that is entertaining in their prodigious outpouring of information. Often non-stop, at lightening speeds and at times wavering in final decision there is no lack of conversation to be had when Gemini enters in. For some these antics are amusing and perceived as “trying too hard”, often because the delivery of these sound bytes is handled in such a detached and analytical style. Being ruled by head rather than heart can bring about a general consensus of not taking seriously what is communicated, largely because of the vacillating scope of information that is as difficult to grasp the intended meaning as a moving target is to still.

Rules Astrological House: The 3rd House of the Zodiac, the “House of Expression”.

This is the house that defines the way in which you communicate and express yourself in the world. Moving through the Zodiacal Wheel’s energy, the First House is the singular “you” identified by your personality and who you are presently and who you who hope to become. The second House holds the possessions and things you have acquired that further define you. The Third House represents how you express yourself based on what you have learned of yourself (1st House) and what you have chosen to surround yourself with in the material world (2nd House). How we express ourselves depends on communication as the vehicle. How and what we think defines how we engage the world and others. We invent and then re-invent ourselves based upon our inner dialogue. The results of those perceptions then become our new path of expression.

Color: The vibrant Yellow of mind and clarity. This attribution speaks to the mental nature of Gemini and the clarity that is prodigious in the workings of the Geminian mind. Blue is also associated as a reference to the airy quality of Gemini and the limitless vastness of a sky that holds multiple possible outcomes. The intellect moves and flows moving its energy through the aethers much like the radio waves that carry signals transparently and with clarity. If Qabalistically inclined, the color orange is used relevant to the sphere of Hod (pure Mind).

Connection and Flow: Taurus to Gemini

I flow from foundations
That have been strongly built.

The freedom of Mind has now been released
And I am dynamic in what emerges from
This solid ground of inspired inventiveness
Breathe in the power and rise to take flight
As I soar towards the mirror reflection of myself.

Gemini is the third sign of the Zodiac. Having found the strength of grounding and establishing the necessary roots on Taurus, Gemini is now ready to communicate what has been gifted from the resourcefulness of Taurus. Gemini completes the first level of triad’s that comprise the modalities of the Zodiacal wheel. We have experienced the initial flow bursting from Aries and the wrangling of that flow into a place of stability in Fixed Taurus. Now we arrive at Gemini and the mutable modality that both reaches towards the end goal and heralds the gate that becomes the next flow of catalyzing Cardinal energy (Cancer).

Seasonally, under the potent rays of the Gemini sun we are nearing the Summer Solstice and the fullness of the sun’s light in its phase of waxing. The nature of Gemini is to be present dynamically in every situation, making itself known by its ease of dialogue and unique style of communication. This freedom to express has been enabled by the confidence gained through knowledge of the physical state of our being. When we know ourselves from the perspective of what we have accumulated within this earthly form of life and the pleasures of fleshy existence (Taurus), there is nothing left to do but to interact, collaborate and communicate the joy and pain of this life’s existence and the experiences had thus far. (1.)

Mentally, the flow from Taurus to Gemini is one of probing the inventive spirit that naturally arises when we lay foundations. We build a house and upon seeing what the finished product is, we beginning visualizing what each room should look like; imagine what changes can be made that will more aptly show to the world who you are. Taurus was the child, digging in the dirt, making mud pies and seeing everything from a sensorial approach, learning from the experience in preparation for communicating everything it knows. Gemini lets everyone know how much fun was to be had from the experience.

As we move through each of the Solar Temples in the coming year, it will become more apparent how interconnected they are. The story that is woven is one of growth and evolution that is just as relevant today as it was to the ancients. We learn from these natural cycles and their application is profound mundanely and spiritually.

BONUS PATHWORKING:

Excerpted from The Inner Chamber:Volume One
It’s Written in the Stars(Astrology). R. Fennelly. 2.2013

The Hall of Gemini

Turn your focus and attention to your breath. Allow the space of your consciousness to move with the rise and fall of your chest and the filling and release of the lungs. Continue in this manner for several breaths; allowing each to become softer, smoother and slower. With each breath your physical body appears to become lighter and your center of consciousness floats upwards towards the inner eye. You feel enveloped by the mist of transition between the Physical and Astral. And as this veil thins you step through a veil of dark blue mist and find yourself standing centrally in a circular room. As you look around you see that this space opens out to a star lit night sky. The velvety blackness above holds a twinkling of starry light that fills the panoramic view above. The walls encircle you and are of a deep bluish purple. As your eyes adjust to this room you notice an archway just ahead of you. The glyph of Gemini, the Twins hovers in the entryway.

As you step through the orange glow of the Glyph of Gemini you see two perfectly mirrored twins sitting having a conversation. They are both blonde and although they appear androgynous, as many children do, there are slight nuances and physical features that separate them as being male and female. They pause in mid-sentence for a moment, turning to acknowledge your arrival, and then turn back to one another continuing the same thread of thought. Question, answer, and statement flash back and forth between the two at lightening speed. You feel both energized and a bit exhausted as your mental processes are not of this mind-set and cannot keep pace with the chameleon like changes in rhythm, clarity and intonation. You turn your attention to the room and see that books line shelves which encompass all four walls; and papers are strewn about haphazardly as though they had recently been impatiently rifled through and then carelessly left wherever they were put. You stand off to the side and observe how each of the children seems to change their mental position at will. One will agree on what statement has been made and then completely disagree about another. The other seeming to mirror every change of its twin with a steady and regulated pace.

They are discussing their favorite activity of reading and as the conversation becomes more excited, they stand and begin to gesture and point to make clearer their statement fact. As they move around the room going from one conversation to another surrounding this book or that you sense that somehow although appearing to be two, they are actually of one mind. That the duality you are seeing is actually the mental acrobatics of a mind that shifts and moves in accord with wherever the stronger enticement lay. This is the secret of their mental agility. The sheer ability to adapt and change at will to suit the needs of the situation. Although you are excited to have solved this one piece of the puzzle and are beginning to feel more at ease in following the direction, speed and flow of their conversation, your attention is drawn to one corner of the room.

You see a beautifully decorated standing mirror placed diagonally in the corner space between two of the walls. As you move towards it, the sound of the conversation seems to fade and just as you come to standing directly in front of the mirror you turn to see if the twins have fallen silent, and see that you are in the room alone. As you turn back towards the mirror you see more clearly your own reflection. You are a bit surprised, because although you recognize the reflection as being yourself, you also notice that there is the slightest bit of difference. It is not something you could concretely describe or even attribute to distortion of the glass; but rather, more of a perception.

Thoughts of the Coney Island fun house mirrors flood your mind, but those are more straightforward in their deception. This is almost transparent in its subtleness. Your eyes focus on the images of the room behind you that are also reflected. And, again the same feeling of something being ever so slightly different bubbles up. As you stand looking at this mirrored image, you notice that your mood has somewhat changed. You had felt energized and excited, but now as you stare into the glass, you feel a heaviness of mind in trying to solve this perplexing state of vision. It seems as though the longer you stare into this reflection, the more withdrawn and irritated you feel. You take a deep breath, sighing heavily. Just as you release the last bit of exhale, you hear the sounds of heated debate and conversation flooding back into the space.

You turn and see that the twins are once again sitting at the table and debating which game is the most challenging. As the sounds become louder, your mood begins to lift as well. You look back at the mirror and are surprised to see that your image, as well as the room behind you are just as you thought they should be. You think on the changeability of perceptions and ideas and how there are always two sides to every process of thought. You think on the flexibility that approach from this aspect permits, but you also remember the sheer exhaustion of that flexibility and the never ending cycle that can be created by not fully committing to one stream of thought.

You look towards the twins once again and see that they too have succumbed to the mental acrobatics. Each rests a blonde curly head on the table-top, eyes closed. You imagine that even in their dreams they are exploring new topics of discussion, new ways of problem solving and always sensing the dual nature of each expression.

As you deepen into these musings, you are surprised to find that you are once again standing centrally in the circular room. You make mental note that there had been no obvious transition from one space to the other and you think back to the trickery of the mirror you gazed into. Giving this no more thought, you look upwards towards the night sky and it seems as though a few of the stars are shining a bit more brightly now than when you first entered. You take a deep breath in and as you exhale, you feel enlivened and at peace in this space of celestial beauty. You know you will visit many times again as the solar months progress and the thought fills you with anticipation of what each of your journeys will reveal.

You gently close your eyes and when you open them you are surrounded by the blue veil of energy that carried you to this inner sky. As you take a few more deep breaths and fill the intent with awareness of your physical being and return to your physical space, the mist clears and the smells, sounds and sights of the room in which you began our journey floods your senses. You feel the floor beneath you and the chair on which you are sitting. Noises of the mundane world come back filling ear and mind with thoughts of going about the rest of your day or evening. You take a deep breath in, savoring the vestiges of your astral journey and the insight it provided, and strongly exhale out affirming your oneness with the present moment of physical time and space.

Resources:

1. Another perspective of the Taurean to Geminian energy can be found in my two recent posts in the Magickal Pen:

Knock! Knock! Who’s There?
Leaving the Hermit Behind?

Other Posts to Re-read:

New Moon in Gemini: Temple of the Sun
Brainstorming

Waxing Moon in Gemini: Talking Waters

Temple of the Moon:
Day Twenty-Five-The Epiphany of Silence

Day Twenty-Four- Talk it Up!

And, of Course:
The Temple of Mercury Postings

Next Post

Friday, June 13.2014
Full Moon in Sagittarius: Aiming for the Night Sky

Mercury Stations Retrograde Tomorrow AM

Posted in Auspicious Days, Mercury, The Temple of Mercury, The Temple of the Sun with tags astrology, esoteric writings, gemini, Retrograde, Temple of Mercury on June 6, 2014 by themagickalpen

Mercury Retrograde
June 7 – July 1.2014

We are mid-point in the Solar Month of Gemini and the ruling planet Mercury is ready to station retrograde at 7:56am tomorrow morning. Gemini’s energy has been full throttle all month having the illumined spotlight of the Sun. This retrograde offer the opportunity to “hover” in the full outpouring of Gemini’s energy and reach back into the stores of past communications, styles of expression and dual nature that are all of Gemini’s domain.

We have until July 1st (Solar Month of Watery Cancer) to explore how we interact and relate to others. The duality of Gemini is the tendency for mixed (or misunderstood) messages (even when Mercury is not Retrograde) because of the speed of processing and sharing of what the Geminian sets mental sights to. This retrograde has the added advantage of Sun being in its Zodiacal sign of rulership, so there is ample strength of will and purpose (Sun) that can be called upon as Mercury’s rapid flight slows a bit and enables a bit more integration before moving on to the next task at hand.

I invite you to read the post in the Temple of Mercury for more information and ideas relating to a Mercury Retrograde.

Meet Me at the Station

So, take a deep and sigh into the informed communication of what needs your attention and closer scrutiny. Breathe with intention and analytical observation of what rises to the surface as you allow the mental processes to slow a bit giving space and pause to fill those lungs deeply and exhale an authentic form of communication and expression that is uniquely yours.

2 Comments »

Sun in Gemini- The Talking Tree

Posted in Mercury, The Temple of Mercury, The Temple of the Sun on June 1, 2014 by themagickalpen

I draw on the mind stream that
Flows within my veins and roots
Liquid light shines through
Beaming with pride at how
The expanse of my reach spreads
Reaching out in solemn communication.

As we enter the Temple of the Sun, Qabalistically we are entering into connection with the central sphere on the Tree of Life, Tiphareth. The name given this sphere is Beauty and the energy is one of synthesis through sacrifice and integration through refinement of the sum of all of its parts. This is much the same energy that we experience in the course of a Solar year. The energy of each of the Zodiacal signs, their element and modality are modified and expressed through the brilliance of the Sun. And, in keeping with the evolutionary process of movement from one sign to the next, each is informed by the previous sign’s energy and contributes a part of its dynamic into the sign that follows. Please see the end of this post for recommendations about learning more about the Tree of Life.

Gemini and Mercury on the Tree

Astrologically, we have learned that Gemini is ruled by the planet Mercury. Mercury also rules the astrological sign of Virgo (Earth and Mutable Modality). This bears note when we look at Mercury on the Tree. His planetary energy is found in three places – the sphere of Hod, Paths 12, 17 and 20. With this duality of astrological rulership, the influence of Air (Gemini) and Earth (Virgo) are molded by the energy of breath and foundation. Although one of these signs may take the lead in directing the expression and form of Mercury’s energy, the other is always present as the informing silent partner.

Hod: The Sphere of Pure Mind

On the Tree of Life, the sphere of Hod holds the pure energy that is the active principle of Mercury expressed through talkative Gemini. The English name for this sphere is Glory. To learn more of Gemini and its expression in the sphere of Hod, please read this posting in The Temple of Mercury:

The Glory of Hod

Hod (Mercury) and Tiphareth (Sun)

Tiphareth and the Sun

Each of the Sephiroth and connecting Paths of the Tree of Life, holds correspondence with a planetary and/or zodiacal energy. The physical Sun stands centrally within our solar system, providing light and heat. Tiphareth provides the space of transformation and the full force generator that distributes what is processed so it may be utilized and transmuted by whatever it emanates its energy into. This is the sacrificial aspect of this sphere. This is the action of enlivening within its own source to ensure the continuation of the creative process begun within the other components of the Tree. So we begin in this central hub of universal energy and move out towards the flow of energy represented by the think tank of pure mind that is the sphere of Hod.

Gemini/Mercury (and Virgo) on the Tree

One of the goals of Gemini, and its ruling planet, Mercury on the Qabalistic Tree is opening the lines of communication and dialogue throughout the Tree. The underpinnings of these Paths are found in the expression of Air (flowing mind and intellect). Depending on what spheres are acting as the primary flow through the paths each will exemplify a form of Divine Mind acting as place of disbursing and communication. This is the action of informed intent that is both adaptable (Gemini) and grounded in the analysis of what information (Virgo) is being offered.

The 17th Path of Connection: Gemini/Mercury

I give you the jewel of my womb
That your light may strengthen
Its form and the mystery of its
Creation may stand in full sight
For all who have cultivated their
Own Inner Light of discernment.

The 17th Path is the point of connection and awakening of the heart of Tiphareth through the gnosis of the pure essence of form. In this energy Binah stands as the Great Mother and Tiphareth as the sacrificial Father in receipt of her emanation. The 17th Path is the conduit of drawing down a portion of the pre-conceived form that strives towards being fully realized and brought into manifestation. Tiphareth (Sun) becomes the necessary place of polarization and distribution of a spark of this new life to be sent out to the other paths of connection.

This energy is one of awakening and preparing the heart of the Tree to the potential held in emanation from the division of the singular one. It is a statement of the immanence of Kether in all emanations and thus in all of creative efforts towards manifestation.

The 17th Path is assigned the element of Air. Air in this form is that of continued flow and movement. The spheres of connection are Binah, the primal birthing waters and Tiphareth, the place of tempering that flow in preparation for greater distribution. This is also the air of mind that maintains the presence of mind needed for selective application of the potent waters of Binah.

Gemini’s Gift of Duality

Mercury is the ruling planet of the astrological sign of Gemini. Quick tongued and communication specialist par excellence enabled by this energy of duality. It is this quick and adaptable nature that is represented on the 17th Path. The duality of polarized opposites of Binah (The Mother) and Tiphareth (The Father) synthesized as the primary seeds sensual awareness and discernment about what final product is offered to enliven the Tree as a whole. This is communication that is based upon the experience of holding life within the fertile waters of the sacred womb of Binah and the action of disbursement and distribution of that understanding through the essence and action of Tiphareth.

The 12th Path: The Path of Air

The silence breathed and life
For a moment paused
Waiting for lengthy
Exhale towards Mother’s womb
Life still un-quickened takes form
And from pain and suffering
Comes the gentle hand of
Father’s great love and grace.

The 12th Path is assigned the element of Air. In its action upon this path the quality of air is one of churning the waters of the creative womb. The 11th Path provided the Air of flow and receipt that set this movement in action. On the 12th Path this flow prepares the Root of Water (Binah) for receipt of the seed of potential through the force of Chokmah. Kether as the pure essence of the Root of Air breathes the flow of its Life force into these birthing waters readying for the contraction of discharge crossing the abyss.

The 12th Path, serves as the beginning of opening the vessel that will become the incubator of what the Divine desires to manifest. Here we have the connection to the feminine principle of collective form and the place from which the combination of seed and ovum can emerge in descent towards final manifest form. This act of conception is the dividing of the cells of the singular whole in order.

Placed upon the 12th Path, Mercury presents as the informant, ready to adapt to what is needed as the creative process takes hold within Binah’s womb as the Godhead of Kether oversees and modifies to insure the viable continuation of its emanation.

Another Path of Expression: Mercury on the 20th Path

The Planetary/Zodiacal Energy
Mercury/Virgo

Mercury is the ruling planet of the astrological sign of Virgo. In its expression of interaction with Virgo, communication is a result of careful analysis and applied categorization of its effects in manifest form. Virgo is of the element Earth and provides the foundation strength that is the base of the highest mountain or the deep reaching roots of the tallest tree. It maintains the structure based upon planning and exacting only what is needed in the precise amounts so that all is orderly.

These energies placed upon the 20th Path provide the tools of anchoring necessary to insure unwavering determination that can receive the expansive energy of broader vision. The nature of duality that is inherent within Mercury enables flexibility and adaptability as the potency of expansion is exacted upon Tiphareth’s state of refining process. The preciseness of Virgoan energy presents as knowing when to stop providing air to the balloon so it will not burst under the force of overdone expansion.

The 20th Path is one of tempering will. The energy of the connecting spheres is powerful and both have risk of overwhelming the other. The pure essence of merciful and right action held within Chesed and the willingness to sacrifice and act as catalytic force held within Tiphareth are best used when collaboratively informed. The lesson of their coalesce energy is one of achieving a state of grace that has been cultivated through accountability and justifiable action.

The Element of Air is placed upon the 20th Path. Air takes its form as the intuitive mind creating flashes of vision and insight into what will become as formlessness takes shape in the manifest world. Each of the Paths has a Tarot card of the Major Arcana placed upon it. On the 20th Path that card is The Hermit. This is the quintessential card that speaks of introspection, turning within and taking a closer look at what comprises the real “you”. This is the recluse that that turns to dialogue with him/herself finding solace and great knowledge in opening to communication of all parts of self. If we think about the nature of Mercury and its focus of intent upon expression and add the overlay of Virgo’s earthy and analytical methodology, the Hermit is an apt image for this Path and its energetic signature.

In Conclusion:

As we consider the attributes of Gemini and its ruling planet Mercury and their impact on the Tree of Life the prominent focus is one of adaptability, duality and expression. Gemini brings the swiftness of mind and agility of focus and clarity and thus breathes life into the Tree, making it more dynamic. The planet Mercury hones these skills of Gemini and then further refines them through the lens of Virgo as its other sign of rulership. The pairing of Air (Gemini) and Earth (Virgo) is the breeze that moves the soil upon the land exposing new paths of exploration. The strength of the mountain built by that shifting of the land serves as the wall of diversion as the hardy winds blow and funnels and redirects what would obliterate by its sheer force along currents more aptly suited.

As the light of Tiphareth (Sun) shines brightly and radiates its vision of magnetic attraction throughout the multilayered branches of a tree that reaches far and wide in its expanse and impact Gemini soars carried on the winds of breath and mind that communicate the lessons of the Tree and its informed experience.

Next Post:

June 8.2014
Temple of the Sun: The Magick of Gemini

Resources:

If you are not familiar with the Qabalistic Tree of Life, I would recommend reading through the article posted in my other blog, The Magickal Pen entitled The Might of Geburah to give you the necessary overview for an introductory base of working knowledge about the Tree. It can be found here:

The Magickal Pen: Geburah’s Might

WitchVox: 13 Keys: The Glory of Hod

13 Keys to the Qabalistic Tree of Life

Reading:

The Inner Chamber Series. R. Fennelly

Volume One: It’s Written in the Stars (2013)
Volume Two: Poetry of the Spheres (2013)
Volume Three: Awakening the Paths (2014)

Order at author’s website: Robin Fennelly

New Moon in Gemini-Brainstorming!

Posted in Auspicious Days, Esbat, New Moon, The Temple of the Sun with tags astrology, celestial, cosmic, Esbat, esoteric writings, gemini, new moon, Temple of the Sun on May 28, 2014 by themagickalpen

May 28.2014

New Moon in Gemini
2:40 p.m.

Venus Transits into Taurus
9:45 p.m.

The Moon waxes New this afternoon in the astrological sign of Gemini. We’ve learned of the natural energy of Gemini towards continued discourse and erudite communication and the enhancement at all levels of this heightened sense of informed awareness (and curiosity) with the application of the Sun’s brilliance. In some ways the feeling of this solar month reminds me of the sparkling reflections that catch your attention much like the shimmering rhinestones on a performers red carpet gown. This flashiness commands the attention and what is communicated once that engagement has been made is the totality of that individual’s presence at that instant of time and in that place. This is where new stars are made and the old are relegated to a back seat of anonymity. All hanging on the outcome of a fleeting inspiration that was seized by some for use in the communication of their story. This is the energy of intent that is served well by a New Moon in Gemini to kickstart the process of defining how you express yourself and how adaptable that expression can become.

Mercury, the ruling planet of Gemini, is still in its forward thrust (before it Retrogrades on June 7th) so we can ride the waves of this double dose (Sun and Moon in Gemini) of dynamic exchange of information in seeking our own vehicle of expression. In mythology, the Roman God Mercury (or Hermes, Greek) was associated with commerce and the gain amassed from those efforts. He was most often the Deity sought as patron for one who desired success in matters of business. These boons were gathered by process of the style and way in which the individual conducted him/herself in skillfully expressing what was desired and what arrangements would be made for obtaining the goods. Naturally this involved discussion, communication and clarity of thought. The duality or trickster aspect of Mercury is the double-sided banter of the businessman/woman who must adjust his/her interactive style to act in the most persuasive way that is best suited to achieve the end goal. The glib tongued salesman who can convince the most skeptical of buyers to try “just one” is well honed in the Mercurial arts.

Hermes, who was the Greek aspect of Mercury, had similar attributes also took on the role as messenger to the Gods and was often noted as the God of Eloquence as he was called upon by poets and orators. His inspired energy reached broadly and he was associated not only with daily affairs as God of the Herdsmen (inclusive of the woods and all life contained within) but his gift of communication extended into his role as conductor of the Shades acting as liaison for the dying and safe passage of their journey by the Ferryman on the River Styx. And, of course the staff of the Caduceus, symbol of the healer speaks of the power of Hermes in intercellular communication and healing response.

These are but a few examples of the diversity of application that may be made of Gemini’s energy held in the flow of a New Moon phase.

A Point of Heart

Venus transits into the astrological sign it rules, Taurus at 9:45 this evening. The opportunity here is one of bringing into manifestation the harmony of relationship and loving collaboration and all of the gifts that this brings. Taurus creates solid foundations and stability within our physical world and those things that make us feel secure, loved and treasured for who we are. Venus, as the ruler of Taurus provides a gentleness that softens the baser instincts within and brings them to a place of use as expression of the depth of caring and safe guarding that is developed as love melds with physical form.

Crafting A Fine Alliance

Shadowscapes Tarot: The Empress

©Stephanie Pui-Mun Law

Lady-Mother!” call the wandering souls. “We bring you gifts!” They fly near the Empress, dancing in the sky. They paint synchronized kaleidescope choreographies for her pleasure, and she smiles as she takes it in. Her mind and her thoughts are the conductor to this visual symphony. Gently, they lay a crown woven of the first buds of spring across her brow. “Jasmine and Lily of Valley have graciously donated their first buds for your coronet,” the spirits sigh. “The Apple Tree Man has gifted you with his fruit, and the Lady of the Fields her grains.” These they lay in her basket. With a sudden flourish, the spirits whirl together, then spin off in an explosion of light and music. “Farewell, dear Lady!” they call.”

We can use this additional boost of energy as we move through the waxing of the Moon and the Solar Month of Gemini to establish foundational “best practice” in how we express ourselves in relationships with others.

Brainstorming

I will use this New Moon energy to begin the receptive dialogue of what I need to cultivate and claim as my own in the ways I interact with those I am in relationship with. Sitting in the space of being open to what ideas present and allowing them to flow freely as I brainstorm and focus on how I am perceived by others I can allow the necessary healing to begin in areas where my communications are not in alignment with my feelings; and my actions are not in alignment with what I know of myself. I will work to develop the flexibility and adaptability of mind (Gemini) so I may modify my style of expression in response to what or who stands before me. This is the ultimate form of communication. I will be fearless in standing in the full light (Solar Month) of this energy and allowing it to flow into crafting the truest (neither good nor bad) ME that is projected for others to see. This brings the message (Hermes) of my own trust in that image and creates the foundations (Taurus) that love (Venus) may productively move forward from, knowing that I am communicating what is needed in the moment.

I love the picture of The Empress above and what it communicates to me. I see the potential abundance and harmony of a cyclical flow that moves naturally and organically. And, what is carried on those winds of nature speak is the electrified and refined metamorphosis that takes flight to gently kiss all who move within the flow of inspired mind, ephemeral breath and a beauty that speaks volumes in its simple and elegant grace.

Blessings of the New Moon!

More information about:

Venus and Her Gifts
The Temple of Venus

Mercury and Its Dynamics
The Temple of Mercury

Next Post:

Sunday, June 1
Sun in Gemini: The Talking Tree

1 Comment »

Full Disclosure -The Sun in Gemini

Posted in Mercury, The Temple of Mercury, The Temple of the Sun with tags Air, astrology, celestial, cosmic, esoteric writings, gemini, Temple of Mercury, Temple of the Sun on May 20, 2014 by themagickalpen

Sun in Gemini

5.20.2014
10:59 pm (EDT)

Planetary Ruler: Mercury

Arc of Time

Master of illusion
And Mistress of time
I am the mirror reflection
Of that which is reflected
Mind and its gymnastics
Of intellect move at
A speed envied by most.

I am the air that
Moves in form
Of aero-acrobatics.

Seemingly steady and
Straight in course
And then, playing at the
Antics of daredevil who
Dives and peaks in response
To the next intriguing distraction.

Unwavering persistence is not
My natural state
But, the flexibility of
Persistent exploration down paths
Of all manner of endeavor
Is my greatest strength.

For between the pillars of my glyph
Lay the secrets of manifestation.
And the inward arc of line at top and bottom
Are the inpouring of air’s inspiration
Reaching as above, so below
Towards the reflection of duality.

The Sun transits into the astrological sign of Gemini, late this evening. This speaks volumes about the nature of Gemini and the mental processes that it represents. Often the most inventive ideas seep into our mindscape under cover of the veiling of night and remain dormant until they are awakened and called forth into the next Light of day. The astrological sign of Gemini is one of the element of Air and the Mutable Modality. Its planetary ruler is Mercury, whose greater mystery is held in its transformative powers through the act of communication. The natural energy of the Sun, that of shedding great light on whatever is in its spectrum is now amped up to become the spotlight that shines fully on what needs telling, inventing and ultimately inspiring. This solar month has maximum potential for defining and scrutinizing how you interact with others, your spiritual nature and with all those seen and unseen who act as guardians and guides in your evolutionary process. Gemini brings this energy to the place of adaptability and having the ability to see both sides of the solution or problem, so this is an excellent month to explore all sides of each inventive possibility.

The caution is one of realizing that for everything that is lit to its fullest potential, the opposite side remains in darkness. This is one key to the duality of Gemini and application of the saying “you never know what you will get” is more than appropriate to this dynamic Geminian energy. All of the Air signs fully embrace and thrive in the mental realms and none more so than Gemini. The downside to this however is potential for indecisiveness and confusion.

The Element of Air

The energy of Air is that of mind and intellect and the expression of thoughts and ideas through the vehicle of the mental process. It is movement and flow as it expands whatever it is applied to. Expressed through Gemini, this air presents in rapid-fire debate, discussion, action and decision making. Communication in all of its forms is the tool of the Gemini native, wielding it like the most skilled of swordsmen and cutting through any hesitation. Air is the breath that stirs the waters of the emotional self and stimulates the fires that provide the support of action.

A Mutable Modality

The energy of the Mutable signs is one of expansiveness and flexibility that is now able to move with assurance having had the structure and the stability of the Fixed (Taurus) energy that preceded it. This is the energy that signifies the end of the cycle of movement as well as the preparation for being acted upon again when it revisits the Cardinal Modality anew (Cancer).

Flow moves in spirals
Of return and release
As its magick of repurposing
Is applied to what next
It encounters.

Allow the breath of air
That acts as billows on
The sails of the boat
That carries you to
Your destined shores.

Feel the increase in gain
From lessons learned and
Stability of foundation
Was your master of form.

Breathe deeply into the potential
With the knowledge that all
Will return to the place of
Endings so it may call forth
The message of its
Unrestrained rebirth.

The Next Step

Knowing how each sign moves to the next and the interaction between each as they evolve towards completion (and threshold of renewal) of the wheel in Pisces tells its own unique story of the astrological wheel. Gemini is the third sign of the Zodiac, and completes the triad of the modalities Cardinal to Fixed to Mutable, each flowing into the other. Being of a Mutable Modality, the quality of Gemini is that of flexible expansion. It is this flexibility that offers up the potential for beginnings and endings. This is the ultimate duality that is expressed by the “Twins” of Gemini. Both emanating from one single source, but having split and diverged each expresses its own particular quality of polarity.

If we look at the dynamics of energy thus far, beginning with the cardinal sign of Aries, we could think of the three signs that begin the astrological wheel as the quickening fires (Aries- Fire) within the body of manifestation (Taurus- Earth) that gives rise to aspiring towards the heavens (Gemini- Air).

Mercury is the Ruling Planet of Gemini and Lord of communication in all of its forms. Speech, art, music, writing, etc. all are held within the energy of Mercury. The infamous effects of a Mercury retrograde speak of failure of technological and human communications. Warnings to read the fine print before signing contracts or entering into agreements and misunderstandings and arguments seem to increase during this time period. This type of activity is an expression of the energy of polarity that is held within Gemini. Negative-positive, male-female, clarity-confusion and all that lay between these extremes are natural expressions of the Gemini mind.

Read more about the dynamics of Mercury in:
The Temple of Mercury

This solar month will also see the second Mercury Retrograde mid –month on June 7th through July 1.2014

Preparing the Way

At this time of the year in the Northern hemisphere, we see the potency of Gemini expressed as the weather warms, we move out of doors to enjoy the beauty of the natural world and opportunity abounds for meeting, chatting up and communicating. The vibrancy of the Sun and flow of Geminian energy pours freely inspiring the sharing of ourselves with others.

The work of Taurus was that of providing the earthy container that held the attraction of polarized opposites, drawing to itself the delights and pleasure of a manifest expericnce. Gemini is the expansive nature of what was conceptualized within the vehicle of Taurus and is now ready to spread its informed lesson to all who will hear the telling.

In the Southern Hemisphere the emphasis is the reversed as all continue in their preparation for the waning of the Sun’s light. What was taken from the earth and the fires of energy expended in reaping its product found stabilization as the foundation of container was formed in. Everything that was learned and accumulated from that process now is ready for expression through planning, interpreting and mentally sorting out what worked and what didn’t. This generating of ideas and the flow of communication also turns inward as we rest as the armchair inventor awaiting the burgeoning light of the upcoming Solstice.

Both are states of airy flow and require the clarity of mental process to relate their findings. The lessons and information gained are refined and adaptively modified for multiple manner of expression. The goal is one of stimulating the mind so the emotions can respond and what was purely inventive mind has potential for manifest expression. This state paves the way for the next phase of growth and expansion when the Sun transits next into the Cardinal sign of Cancer.

Full Disclosure:

This solar month is one bursting with communication. This is typically the month for graduations, weddings, vacations and other venues that require communication, planning and a sharing of ideas.

In the chronology of the Zodiac, this is the space of time to use the foundations of our physical connections made and what we have learned of our manifest nature as the inspiration for sharing these lessons learned. This is the transitional phase of the pre-teen who is bursting to share everything new they encounter and is just beginning to grasp who they are becoming through that communication. The inquisitive mind of the pre-teen moves at a pace that is non-stop. This is the phase of the “I want to be” and “when I grow up, I can do this or that”. Everything is within the realms of possibility and holds no limitations to what is imagined.

And, so in the spirit of talkative Gemini and we call forth the energy of the Sun as it continues its zodiacal cycle, once again we repeat the invocation that opened the Gate to this Temple. As you read through it think back to your talkative pre-teen years. You had so much to share and to tell and plenty of people to interact with, all having their own unique perceptions and stories. Think back to how you allowed yourself to become completely and utterly lost in the inventiveness of what you imagined your future life would be- and your very important role in it. This is one of the greatest gifts of humanity. This is the ability to interact and to fully disclose as much or as little about themselves as they wish. As you read through the invocation, think about what each line of reference is trying to communicate. What keys to the greater knowledge of RA’s power is hidden within the words put to paper. This is the power of communication and its ability to transform. Use this gift wisely this solar month as we invoke the Solar month in Gemini and awaken those fires of RA to enliven each exchange with another you have.

Hymn to RA

All Hail to Thee, Mighty RA
Blaze of noon day sun.

Your fiery orb high in the
Sky above as we kneel
Beneath the heat of
Your radiance.

All the Gods bow to your radiance
All the Goddesses sing hymns of praise
To Your glory and man
Lays prostrate in humility
And devotion at the altar of
Your making.

Sweet music of adoration and offerings
Brought forth from the Black Land
Rise up in praise and thanks for
Your Sustaining Light.

All darkness flees at the touch of Your hand
All ceases its movement as Your expansive
Rays stretch across the morning sky.

The lotus opens to receive Your Touch
And the sands glisten as rare jewels
As You gaze upon each grain washed
Clean in the boundless ocean that
Reflects the brilliance of your face.

All Hail to Thee
Amun-RA
All Hail to Thee
Who sits high
Above the world.

Khepra in the East
Atum in the West
Whose eye holds the
Point of Life and the
Trifold Arc of Power.

Your eyes see all and
You are the place of return
Within the glowing blackness
Of the Midnight Sun.

All Hail to Thee
All Hail to Thee
Amun, Amun, Amen!

Next Posting: Wednesday, May 28th.
Brainstorming- New Moon in Gemini

The Magick of Taurus

Posted in Lunar, Magick, The Temple of the Moon, The Temple of the Sun with tags astrology, candle magick, celestial, cosmic, earth, Esbat, esoteric writings, fixed modality, Lunar, Magick, Temple of the Sun, Tuarus on May 6, 2014 by themagickalpen

The Magick of Taurus is raw, sensual, grounded in the physical experience and prolific in its product if anchored by desire and emotional attachment. Whatever we apply Taurean energy to is going to receive a potent dose of strengthening and willing and complete i in earthly matters. Taurus is the quintessential astrological sign to make use of when exploring the physical nature of our being and all that is impacted by and results from that physicality . Its primary functions of grounding and anchoring address the very raw and primal instincts that are part of our physicality. Sweat from hard labor or exercise, sexual pursuits and intimate relationships, laying the foundations (literally or metaphorically) of what defines us through the possessions acquired, money and the way in which we engage in the business of our lives all are part of the potency of Taurus.

Venus as the ruling planet of Taurus adds an energy that seeks beauty, harmony and awakening of the emotional self. It is the heart that yearns for romance and connection. This energy supports social interaction and the overwhelming goal is to connect at a deep and often intimate level with those of our choosing. A love of the natural world and what treasures are available to enhance the home life and material endeavors of Taurus are the motivations for remaining strong and at times immovable in what has been decided upon. Matters of the heart are approached in a very concrete and visceral way and the interactions are ones that are very loyal and enduring in their stability. This is the basic need of one human in seeking out its complimentary mate to avoid isolation and aloneness. This expression of Venus is one that is intensely grounded in the physicality of love and relationships versus the Venusian expression through Libra (also ruled by Venus) which is much more cerebral and finds it resolution first in the idea of love.

Solar Month Magick

Enhances exploration of what makes you uniquely human and the physical experiences associated with manifest form.

The Solar Month of Taurus is an excellent time to begin to take stock of what the gifts of your human experience are and how these ultimately effect the comfort or dis-ease you have in navigating all of the challenges and joys of living in a physical state. This is also a time for testing the limits of what that physical form is capable of, taking that information, synthesizing (Fixed Modality) it and then moving forward based on what you have learned of yourself in the physical world. The energy of this Solar month of Taurus, next flows into talkative Gemini, so whatever is done during this time sets the foundations for what we will then communicate and share broadly in the upcoming month.

Taurus as the second sign of the Solar Year is still in the process of “becoming”. What was catalyzed last month in Aries fuels the desire to be fully present and fully engaged in human matters. Making use of this month’s energies to sure up and create a stronger vessel of container for that initial spark requires patience and hard work. With that thought in mind, using Taurus energy as a Solar working should be fully focused on the intent of the possibilities and future potential that the concrete and physical work of building in this phase will ultimately produce.

This approach can be used for short-term projects, but is most effective for long-term workings. A goal such as wanting to become stronger, fitter and healthier benefits from beginning its cycle while the Sun is in Taurus. The byproducts of care and tending to the physical body and its needs are the ability to work in support of maintaining a steady flow of income, which in turn is used to purchase those things that support the healthy lifestyle and those things that give you pleasure and joy.

Similar to the New, Full and Waning cycles of the Lunar Month, beginning the working in the Solar Month of Taurus would be the first phase of solidifying and seeding what will become the stable ground for future growth. This may take the form of assessing our health and the physical steps we have taken to insure that we are able to work and play in a vital and viable state. Using the cycle of Earth and those astrological signs of that element the next point of bolstering the energy would be during Virgo. The Solar Month of Virgo stands as the Full phase of the earth’s energy, and signals readiness to sort through, weed and begin careful and meticulous planning for the harvesting of what we have tended to within our physical nature.

The flexible energy of Capricorn (the last of the Earth signs) would serve as the point of gaining sure footing for what we have learned about our human nature. This would take the form of looking back into the depths of what connects us most deeply to the manifest world and then carrying those worthy products upwards towards completion of defining what makes us human. Successfully scaling this final mountain that leads to knowledge of the interface between our humanity and spirituality is achieved, only, by how strong the foundations and anchors we’ve created in the previous Solar Months of Taurus and Virgo have been crafted. As each of these Solar Months take hold the energy of the working is bolstered, concrete and well planned steps would be taken towards its end goal and progress made is seen through the lens of the changing cycles of flow of solar dynamics.

Lunar Magick

Engages the flow of emotion and intuitive insights through the strength and container of manifest, physical and concrete forms.

Use of Lunar energy in the astrological sign of Taurus provides the energetic principle of stabilizing and infusing the emotional waters with seeds for potential life. Workings that desire the goal of strengthening prosperity, health, and all manner of physical possessions aptly make use of Taurus’ qualities of fertility and manifestation. Improvements relating to your physicality, such as exercise programs, becoming more active and more vital in those physical endeavors benefit from Taurean application.

The New Moon of Taurus could set up the foundation for beginning the process of bolstering your finances. This would be a great time to begin a prosperity working. The Full Moon would reinforce the abundance of what has been gained. Attention would be directed to and gratitude for the work’s success and acknowledgement of the concrete steps taken, in addition to the magickal work set in motion would be bolstered and reinforced. And, the Waning Moon’s energy would be used to release any habits that keep you spending in ways that are not supportive of creating abundance. Release of the attitude of lack and any challenges and barriers that you perceive as keeping you less than anchored in your intended goal would also be made.

Some Additional Astrological properties of Taurus

Keywords: Stability, Foundation, Finances, Longevity, Manifestation, Fecundity.

The Archetype: The Farmer is the archetype associated with Taurus. This exemplifies the deep commitment to Earth and all that is contained in this realm. The Farmer is caretaker and grower of what sustains life. He works the land with love and respect, knowing that his actions will either destroy or create. He/She is intimately connected to the seasons and their impact and relies on the wisdom of his own physicality to insure success. It is this ability to know so deeply the materials that are the ingredients in manifest form that make Taurus to be called upon for grounding and proliferation of what is begun.

Rules Astrological House: The 2nd House of the Zodiac, the “House of Possessions”. This is the house that defines you by what you have acquired. Those physical things that allow you comfort and pride in what you have achieved through the physicality of your own endeavors. Financial stability, strength of home and living the life you wish to live surrounded by those things that you possess. Workings that enhance and are in support of that definition of yourself crafted by what is acquired benefit from using Taurus’ energy.

Color: The rich Green of the Natural world. This is the color of the varied shades of green leaf, wet grass and damp moss that cannot be replicated in the potency of its sensorial effect regardless of how skilled the colorist may be. Green is the color of money and the association is one of the financial stability having adequate amounts can provide. Green is the healing color of herbs that are grown to vibrancy and sacrificed in the making of homeopathic and natural preparations. Using this color to align with the energy of Taurus is to re-member and to strengthen the connections we have to the verdant world around us. It is to anchor ourselves in our planetary home and to recall the opening of the senses as you walked through a lush green field of summer green grasses.

Connection and Flow: Aries to Taurus

I am patient and I am persistent
As I move through life’s course.
And within my breast beats
A heart that holds the earth’s
Wisdom and light deep within.

Taurus is the second sign of the Zodiac and following in the enthusiastic outpour of Aries, Taurus stands ready in its place of a fixed sign. The initial burst of enthusiasm (Aries) is now curbed and brought into form by the concrete solid container that is Taurus.

Seasonally, under the potent rays of the Taurus sun the call is to be outdoors and working in the garden and fields; surrounded by the blossoming of plants and new vegetation. The earth is rich and filled with what is needed to produce crops and fragrant flowers. The preparation and necessary quickening of this state of fertility was conceived under the Aries sun. Seeing all potential and enthusiastically taking action to plant the seeds and lend its growing light. The heat contained within and above the earth warms the soil so that it may be the fertile container that holds the mystery of greening life.

Physically, the flow from Aries to Taurus is one of reveling in our physical form. The anticipation of warmer days, and return to the stimulation of earthy pursuits was fired up as Spring opened a attitude of fresh perspective and the promise of thriving with each day. Aries is the infant and toddler learning of their impact on the surroundings. Taurus is the child, digging in the dirt, making mud pies and seeing everything from a sensorial approach, learning from the experience in preparation for communicating everything it knows as it flows into Gemini.

Other Posts to Re-read:

New Moon in Aries: Temple of the Sun
Dig Deep, Stand Strong and Soar

Full Moon in Taurus: Temple of the Moon
Stand By Me!

Next Post:

Full Moon in Scorpio
5.14.2014

New Moon in Taurus: Dig Deep, Stand Strong and Soar

Posted in Auspicious Days, New Moon, The Temple of the Sun with tags anchoring, astrology, celestial, earth, Esbat, esoteric writings, fixed modality, new moon, Temple of the Sun, Tuarus on April 29, 2014 by themagickalpen

April 29.2014
2:14 am (EDT)

New Moon in Taurus

Sun in Taurus

Solar Eclipse

Early this morning the Moon transited New into the astrological sign of Taurus. This New Moon is in the Fixed sign of Taurus with Sun at mid-point of its transit through the solar month. The opportunity for a new approach of strength and stability to bolster our physical and manifest surroundings is being offered.With Sun and Moon both in Taurus, earthly matters and mundane experience take center stage. How you feel and intuit you way through the mundane experience of life are receptive to reshaping and rebuilding of what anchors them in your physical reality. This is also the optimal space for beginning the work of healing and renewal with specific focus on those physical parts of self that are in a state of dis-ease or need an extra vaccine of immunization to keep everything working order. The Sun offers its light and strength of purpose to brighten up those flowing waters that connect you to the human experience. Financial matters, home affairs and those possessions and things that define your physical presence are the point of focus, as is your physical state and what that presence and persona wishes to make as its mark in the manifest world. There is additionally, a Partial Solar Eclipse occurring with this New Moon.

The Solar Eclipse

Credit: Space Telescope Science Institute

A Solar Eclipse occurs only at the time of a New Moon and when the Moon passes between Sun and Earth, partially or fully blocking the sun’s light. I think of this as a veiling of the Sun’s Light with the Moon’s energies acting like the polarized lenses of glasses. You are aware that the sunlight is strong and intensely bright, but the glare has been filtered and the shading serves to bring out the deepest and richest colors and details that would otherwise be lost in the brilliance of the light. Today’s eclipse is a partial one, so being receptive to where that greater detail ebbs and flows as the Moon moves across the path of the Sun of strengthening can give additional insight that is needed to begin the process of gaining more stable ground.

Credit: MrEclipse.com

The Winged Bull

The astrological sign of Taurus is the first of the Fixed Modalities and one of the Four Holy Creatures in its elevated form. The Fixed Modality is the mid-station between what is newly birthed in the burst of Cardinal outpouring and what becomes the flexible and pliable essence of synthesis that is the Mutable modality. Each of the four Fixed signs of the Zodiac has within its stable container of structure the potential to reform and transform what enters into it and bring it to its highest expression. These higher forms are one of the meanings of the Four Holy Creatures of esoteric work.

They are:
Taurus- The Winged Bull- Earth
Leo- The Winged Lion- Fire
Scorpio- The Eagle- Water
Aquarius- The Winged Man- Air

We’ll discus each of these more as we move through the solar year. For now, the focus is on Taurus The Winged Bull. I’ve chosen to interject this thought because of the Solar Eclipse and a deeper interaction between the Lunar and the Solar energies than what is usually the norm of the New Moon. The Winged Bull is the raising up of what would hold us rooted only in our physical and baser needs. The animal within would be unproductive in its application and survival at all costs would replace justice, morals and consideration of another’s needs; a few of the attributes that separate man from animal. The strength that we find within the earth and her offerings would be the only place of awareness and our connection to what lay above would remain dormant and un-evolved in its aspiration.

The addition of wings to the pure mass, strength and instinctually driven bull as representation of these attributes allows a perspective of using these as the tools through which all is seen from above giving new points of reference and deeper meaning to our collaborative efforts with what surrounds us. Viewing our surroundings at ground level only offers a limited vantage point of distance. Even the slightest elevation sets into motion broader vantage of sight and interpretation of what has been newly added. The Winged Bull is bringing those aspects that make us most fully human/animal; retaining the strength and beauty of that affirmation and soaring above fully aware and apprised of their role in both spiritual and earthly matters.

The New Moon of Earth’s Lofty Delights

On this New Moon, dig your heels in deeply to what anchors you on this earthly plane as you make the necessary shifts in mundane priorities and the status quo. Stand firmly and with strength in regard to the new course of decision made about what is deserving of your attention in the physical realm. This new approach should meet the tests of feeling secure and stable; act to ground the mental chatter that would create indecisiveness and insecurities and provide new foundations to stand upon with higher vantage point. If all is aligned in a stable and supportive manner with intention of remaining anchored and rooted in what feeds your physical needs, the work done has the potential to bring what is rooted in base needs and manifest reality to a place of inspired intent that soars high above what the initial scope of what manifest form thought was possible.

Note on Image of Taurus, the Bull: This statue of the Winged Bull is found atop a castle in Liege, Belgium, was built by Robert Garcet. The tower-museum is called the Tower of Eben-Ezer. It has seven floors and stands 108 feet high. The four turrets at the corners are topped with magnificent statues. In the Bible, Eben-Ezer is the stone of help, so Garcet chose to top his castle with the four cherubs of the Apocalypse: Taurus, north-west, Man, south-west, the Lion, south-east, and Eagle, the northeast.

Photo Credit: Space Telescope Science Institute

Graphic of Solar Eclipse Geometry: MrEclipse.com

1 Comment »

Sun in Taurus: An Anchor of Light in the Tree

Posted in The Temple of the Sun, Venus with tags anchoring, astrology, cardinal, celestial, duality, earth, esoteric writings, fire, fixed modality, Qabalah, Taurus, Temple of the Sun on April 27, 2014 by themagickalpen

My strength flows through leaf and branch
I offer the stability that allows for growth
I am steadfast in my fertility and power to create
My body is the temple that gives life form
My roots dig deeply into anchoring the light
That emanates from Mother’s sacred womb
And Father’s potent seed.

As we enter the Temple of the Sun, Qabalistically we are entering into connection with the central sphere on the Tree of Life, Tiphareth. The name given this sphere is Beauty and the energy is one of synthesis through sacrifice and integration through refinement of the sum of all of its parts. This is much the same energy that we experience in the course of a Solar year. The energy of each of the Zodiacal signs, their elements and modality are modified and expressed through the brilliance of the Sun. And, in keeping with the evolutionary process of movement from one sign to the next, each is informed by the previous sign’s energy and contributes a part of its dynamic into the sign that follows.

Tiphareth and the Sun

The Magickal Pen: Geburah’s Might

Tiphareth and the Sun

Taurus and Venus on the Tree

Astrologically, we have learned that Taurus is ruled by the planet Venus. Venus also rules the astrological sign of Libra (Air and Cardinal Modality). This bears note when we look at Venus on the Tree. Her planetary energy is found in three places- the sphere of Netzach, Paths 16 and 14. With this duality of astrological rulership, the influence of Air (Libra) and Earth (Taurus) are molded by the energy of relationship, durability and striving towards flow of balance. Although one of these signs may take the lead in directing the expression and form of Venus’ energy, the other is always present as the informing silent partner.

The Foundations of Victorious Venus

On the Tree of Life, the sphere of Netzach holds the pure energy that is the active principle of Venus expressed through earthy Taurus. The English name for this sphere is Victory. The work of Netzach is one of refining and balancing the energies of emotion and response to what has been achieved and what could be considered victorious about that achievement. The sphere of Netzach is the place of establishing the balance of hedonistic and aesthetic ideals. Love is the primary focus, but not at the expense of over indulgence in physical pleasure. These points of focus are all very Taurean in their energy, being firmly and concretely of the physical realms. This is also the place of expression of Love of Nature in all of her forms. The connection between beauty and the energies that are contained within the force of Nature is a strong one. Even in the Natural world’s more disruptive expression, the order and intelligence in design applied in her shaking free from her mantle those disruptions of energy is done with a sense of order, intent and aestheticism. Nature is expressed through Taurus in the overt attribution of an animal, the Bull, to its energies and the dominant theme of physical and manifest expression.

This sphere is noted as the Vision of Beauty (and harmony) of nature and all of its components, human, animal, mineral and plant life. There is also a sense of appreciation of all the finer things and the highest ideals to be achieved. This is present in both the physical concepts of the sphere as well as the spiritual and etheric levels. This is the place of triumph over the baser self. Of organized effort to bring refinement and the orphic delights of the arts to fill the container or structure that is being created before it is released into the place of the intellect that can further define and order it.

Netzach (Venus) and Tiphareth (Sun)

Netzach is assigned the element of Fire as is the Sun of Tiphareth. Within the energy of Netzach we can identity this Fire as that of longing, desire and the impetus that coerces the creative urge towards manifestation. This is the Fire that initially burns very hot and very bright but if not tended carefully will spread out of control and consume that which created it.

Venus’ energy reigns supreme within this sphere with Taurus as an adjunct to that energy and although, Taurus is an Earth sign, the energy of earth is expressed through the Fires of Venusian interactions. Here the theme of Fire is that of the underpinnings that is the molten core within the earth. The Fires that heat the soil to quicken the seeds held within, which in turn stretch upward towards Sun’s light. Although not directly connected via a path that is of Taurean or Venusian dynamic, Tiphareth and Netzach react and radiate one to the other through the 24th Path.

Path 24
A Path of Fire

The 24th Path represents the synthesis of the fire of the heart (Netzach) and strength of sacrifice (Tiphareth) working in dialogue and exchange with one another. If we think in terms of heart felt will and the courage of personality centered sacrifice, this is the action of moving from a place of balanced compassion (Netzach) that willingly offers its energy up to become part of a filtered and transfigured outpour (Tiphareth). The underlying strength of Turaus held in this configuration of Netzach/Venus and the Sun of Tiphareth is the process of regeneration that takes the raw stuff supplied and renews and restores each to its enlivened form.

Read more about Netzach and Venus at:
Temple of Venus: The Victory of Netzach

The 16th Path of Connection: Taurus/Venus

The spheres of Chokmah (Wisdom/The Zodiac) and Chesed (Mercy/Jupiter) are connected by the 16th Path on the Tree of Life. There is great determination (Taurus) held within the 16th Path. It is the upper most support of The Pillar of Mercy and in emanation downwards, what is cultivated within this path is what will later inform the interactions (Venus) between Chesed and Netzach. The energy of Earth (Taurus) within the 16th Path is that of durability, strength and control. The collaborative energies of Wisdom (Chokmah) of the mysteries of the creation of the cosmos(Zodiac) and the Mercy (Chesed) cultivated from experience, choice and expanded(Jupiter) perception from the foundations selected to coalesce these energies that are not only fertile but also prolific in their sustaining powers.

The Hebrew Letter placed on the 16th Path is Vau, which means Nail in English. A nail is used as a tool of binding or attaching one thing to another. The expectation is that this attachment will be durable and long lasting and not easily pried apart. The same is true of the spiritual energy placed upon the 16th Path. As a connecting path on the Pillar of Mercy, this is the path of anchor and endurance. What is cultivated within the merciful being will be elevated to a place of access to what may spawn further creations of this sort. The nail acts to hold firmly these energies so that nothing may separate their dynamic energy as the flow of their combined truths move down into the manifest world of expression.

We could summarize this energy in this way: The stable (Fixed modality) container of Taurus’ manifest form expressed in the refined and creative (Venus) aspect of merciful and benevolent emotion (Chesed) expands from its source (Chesed) and aspires upwards towards the cosmos (Chokmah) to co-mingle with the force of release and seeding (Chokmah) of all that sustains life and maintains order of the heavens and thus by its loving (Venus) reflection also on earth.

Another Path of Expression: Venus on the 14th Path

The planet Venus is placed on the 14th Path, which connects the spheres of Chokmah (Wisdom) and Binah (Understanding). The 14th Path holds the honor of providing the base of the Supernal Triangle of the spheres Binah, Chokmah and Kether. This path is the place of polarization through the actions of Binah (Feminine) and Chokmah’s (Masculine) energies as the conception of what will be brought into manifestation as these coalesced energies emanate from Binah. This flow of energetic exchange is directed and towards a singular goal of unifying what lay in opposition to produce the space of neutrality where positive and negative give pause and ultimately produce the spark of creative outpour. This is the fecundity and fertility of Taurus as it supports the action of Venus.

This path represents the element of Earth (Taurus) raised to the level of Divine action. Form has become formless in its ascent and what we conceive of as foundational earth, its structure and all of its evolving components have now evolved as the support and structure required for the blending of male and female, positive and negative, force and form. We think of earth as being the strength and the constant through which viable substance may pass and yield the fruits of that fertility. This is also true of the 14th Path. Through the support and structure of this path the fruits of emanation are yielded.

In Conclusion:

If we consider the attributes of Taurus and its ruling planet Venus and their impact on the Tree of Life the prominent focus is one of anchoring in the physical experience. Taurus is the reminder of the joys and power in being manifest in form and having the ability to recreate that form of manifestation. This is the space of fertility and the creation of an anchor of stabilizing and immovable (remember the stubborn Bull) nature of digging deeply in and strengthening the roots.

As the light of Tiphareth (Sun) shines brightly and radiates its vision of magnetic attraction throughout the multilayered branches of a tree that reaches far and wide in its expanse and impact Taurus reaches deeply into the fertile soil crafting the foundational work that once begun takes root and spreads into all facets of your mundane experience.

Next Post:
Tuesday, April.29th
New Moon in Taurus: Dig Deep, Stand Strong and Soar

Resources:

The Magickal Pen: Geburah’s Might

WitchVox: 13 Keys: The Victory of Netzach

13 Keys to the Qabalistic Tree of Life

Reading:

The Inner Chamber Series. R. Fennelly

Volume One: It’s Written in the Stars (2013)
Volume Two: Poetry of the Spheres (2013)
Volume Three: Awakening the Paths (2014)

Order at author’s website: Robin Fennelly

Temple of the Cosmic Spheres

Archive for the The Temple of the Sun Category

New Moon in Cancer – Arms Wide Open

Take Me Home- The Sun in Cancer

The Magick of Gemini

Mercury Stations Retrograde Tomorrow AM

Sun in Gemini- The Talking Tree

New Moon in Gemini-Brainstorming!

©Stephanie Pui-Mun Law

Full Disclosure -The Sun in Gemini

The Magick of Taurus

New Moon in Taurus: Dig Deep, Stand Strong and Soar

Sun in Taurus: An Anchor of Light in the Tree

Recent Posts

Archives

Categories

Follow Blog via Email

Robin Fennelly

My Affiliations

My Other Blogs

Monthly Column

My Websites

The Magickal Pen- Esoteric Writings

Copyright

Blogs I Follow