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Sun in Virgo – The Details of the Tree

Posted in The Temple of Mercury, The Temple of the Sun, Uncategorized with tags astrology, cosmic, esoteric writings, Mercury, Temple of the Sun, Virgo on August 31, 2014 by themagickalpen

Each crevice is etched deeply
And each tells the greater
Story of my many years.

Water has moved through
Insects have burrowed deep
And found shelter from
Weather’s piercing bite.

I stand tall and strong
Because of the many
Segments that make up
The core of my being.

My bark is roughened
And my branches spread
In a canopy of grace
Each reaching back into
The furrows of my
Creviced trunk.

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.

Virgo and Mercury on the Tree

Astrologically, we have learned that Virgo is ruled by the master communicator- Mercury. Every interaction we have, every thought and idea, and every act of creative expression is a form of Mercury’s endeavors to inform, share and interconnect.

Within the Qabalistic Tree, Virgo and Mercury hold sway in the Sphere of Hod and the Paths of the Tree – 12th and 2oth. When we speak of the energy of Virgo as offering the details of the Tree we are considering the primary directive of Virgo to establish detailed and concise energy that can be effectively communicated and used to create in a concrete and physical way. This energy is expressed in the details of each of the spheres energies and the synthesized action of the connecting paths in processing this pure essence. We find this informed action expressed in the pure mind of the Qabalistic sphere 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 essence of Pure Mind that is the sphere of Hod.

Hod: The Sphere of Pure Mind

Scintillating mind of reason and intellect
Whose course is drawn from
The halls of libraries’ tomes.

Echoes of the One emanate down
Into the hollow of conductivity.

The blueprint of electric charge and
Inspiration’s whim creating the
Alchemical tube to hold the elixir of
Manifest form.

Teachings and truths spun together
And finally issued forth flow on
The currents of communication
And Hermes sets in stone the power
Of mind and word.

Hod is the eighth (8th) Sphere. Within the energy of the number 8 is great power and the sacrifice of contraction and expansion. The holding and funneling of what wishes to expand and then the ultimate release into a great circle of expansive formlessness. It is also the doubling of the stability and foundation expressed by the number four. It is the mirroring of two bases of four sides that reflect back to one another in perfect symmetry. The union of Higher and Lower Mind, the duality and polarity of pairs that have been elevated upon a strong and durable foundation.

Hod is assigned the element of Water. This water is typified as the flow of mind in constant and continual movement. It is the constant stream of download that runs a pure and unspoiled course with the singular goal of informing whatever is in receipt of its inspiration. Some of this channel will be collected and brought further down into the filters that will determine final manifestation, but most will remain in constant movement of flow until one droplet of viable potential ripples outward in its effect.

The Sphere of Communication

The Planetary ruler of Hod is Mercury, so it is fitting that this sphere is considered the sphere of communication. Within its rationale and reasoning are the tools that may be used in discovering the deeper mystery contained within information. It is through the crystal clarity of pristine thinking that enables a better and more efficient means of communicating what knowledge has been extracted. It is also this modality that makes Hod the ideal energetic support for ritual work. Effective ritual and devotional practice are honed from clear and purposeful intent. If that intent is not objectively informed the resulting product of that ritual will not be as strong or as durable in form and focus. If, however, objective thought and clear Higher Mind is working in accord with focused intent, the results become the inroads and precursors to future successful magick, devotional or spiritual practice.

To read more about Mercury’s energies, review the posts in:

The Temple of Mercury

The 20th Path: Virgo and Mercury

My physical form glows from
The discipline of my practice.

My body of light revealed in
The actions and will of my
Greater work upon the path.

I fuel its light with the devotion
Of service and the breath of the
Divine flows in response to the
Circuit of light held within.

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.

This path expresses the power of reclaiming control of the will and reaching up towards a more balanced way of expressing that will. Without the conscience as guide will can exert itself aggressively and become the tool of tyrants and manipulators. If conscience guides the way, merciful action may step in to lead the misguided will towards a state of grace. Chesed has the broader perspective and the experience of Geburah’s might as resource.

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.

Another Path of Expression: Mercury on the 12th Path

The 12th Path: A Supernal of Communication

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, just as the 11th 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 to prepare the waters of quickening.

The Planetary Energy
Mercury

The planet Mercury is typified by its communicative style, duality and adaptable persona. This energy is dynamic and profound in what it can draw to itself and what it can ultimately create from the information gathered. 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.

The Magician

Image: http://mari-na.deviantart.com/

Note: Each of the Paths of the Qabalistic Tree has the assignation of a Tarot key placed upon it as further correspondence to its energy. The Paths 11-32 are represented using the Major Arcana cards.

Tarot Key I – The Magician is the conduit of wielding the flow of universal energy from the ephemeral realms of the Divine and the manifest foundations of the Physical world. We see within the Magician the ability and knowledge to effectively create drawing from the universal laws that govern the magickal and the mundane. There is composure and assuredness in this power, yet the realization that he as well is subject to the transformative energies he is choosing to be vessel for. This is a state of control that has been finely honed and exacted with just the precise amount of force and form to produce the product of power and magick. The Magician is the interface that we hold within that contains all that is needed to produce new life and new form of Being. But, its energy may only be accessed when the all of the tools (parts of self) are acquired and mastered.

I Love this image of the magician. It has the feel of manifestation being brought into the realm of concrete reality. Sorting, analyzing and organizing very carefully planned actions. And, when all has been appropriately identified there is a pause of reflection as the master of magick contemplates the paradox of his/her work.

In Conclusion:

As we consider the attributes of Virgo and its ruling planet Mercury and their impact on the Tree of Life the prominent focus is one of creative expression of all of the finer aspects of the Tree. The key lay in the detail and when time is given to seeking those details a deeper perspective of the Tree can be developed. When we breathe into the space of what lay between what is overt we are opening to the mystery of communication that courses through our physical being in resonance to the many layers of our subtle and spiritual selves.

The stable foundation provided by Virgo’s grounding in what has been learned by diligence, hard work and truly looking at every aspect of the equation is of no value if never shared and made useable. Its seeking and outreaching style flows through the Tree reaching up towards the realms of the creative source, seeking the answers to questions of purpose and Soul’s intent. And, this stream of palpable inquiry continues in downward emanation, standing the further testing of Yesod and in the act of ultimate analysis and refinement makes its way into the manifest realm of Malkuth.

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 we are reminded that in this light of curiosity and the inquisitive seeker bringing the light of newly informed foundation to all who will step upon its broad base of knowledge.

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 “Geburah’s Might” 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: TheBeauty of Tiphareth

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

2 Comments »

Exciting News from Robin!

Posted in Uncategorized on June 23, 2014 by themagickalpen

I am happy to share with you some exciting news about some articles that have been published and new blogs launched!

Circle Magazine– Current Issue 117- “Re(de)fining Your Magickal Practice”

Available at Circle Sanctuary online or local bookstores

Sage Woman Magazine– Issue 86- Review of The Dreaming Girl Tarot
Shipping Soon! Available at BBI Media online or local bookstores

The Portal Magazine, UK – Summer Solstice 2014- Issue 6- ” Me,Myself and I-Developing the Magickal SELF”

Available here: The Portal

and if you’ve not already checked out the Solstice article and poem available on WitchVox– “Mother’s Flowering-The Summer Solstice”

New Blogs:

Magickally Human

Exploring all that it means to be human and the magick of that gift in spiritual work. We are currently exploring the gifts of the senses with companion posts in The Sacred Vessel

A Witch’s Sacred Journey

A blog of experience on the Path of the Witch. We are currently taking the first steps with A Year and A Day on the Witch’s Path online course.

The Sacred Literary

Suggested readings and discussion of select books. We are currently exploring the Hermetic text, The Kybalion by the Three Initiates.

Ongoing:

Womb of Light- The Alchemy of the Goddess at Sage Woman Blogs
Currently writing a series of articles about the Nine Muses

Temple of the Cosmic Spheres
We are currently exploring the Temple of the Sun and Solar Year just transiting into the astrological sign of Cancer

The Enchanted Gate
Photos and poems of the Natural world
And, as always, I welcome comments and suggestion about to better serve our community with writings, content and posts. Have a blessed day!…Robin

A Fiercely Beating Heart: The Sun in Taurus

Posted in Magick, Solar, The Temple of the Sun, Uncategorized with tags anchoring, astrology, earth, esoteric writings, fixed modality, Tuarus on April 19, 2014 by themagickalpen

Sun in Taurus

4.19.2014
11:56pm (EDT)

Planetary Ruler: Venus

A Fiercely Beating Heart

Strength unmoved as dust swirls
Around the stamping of hoof.
Fire rages in the heart and
Coils of fevered breath move from
Chamber of lung and throat
Weaving between air’s stagnant web.

I am earth, solid and great
In purpose and my strength
Is held and guided by a heart that beats
Fiercely to the rhythm of love.

I will stand my ground in
Defense of the truths I perceive.
And, if provoked will
Charge with intent and
Precise aim as I relentlessly
Pursue the source of irritation.

Some would see me as impetuous
And easily stoked to irrational rage
And others would say I was immovable
Stagnant and set in my ways.

Both would be true
For my impetuosity comes
From being firmly grounded and
My grounding takes shape from
The flashes of inspiration I explore.

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.

The astrological sign of Taurus is one of the element of Earth and the Fixed Modality. Taurus is also the first of the fixed signs which have dual meaning as the Four Holy Creatures (More on this in a special posting). Its planetary ruler is Venus, whose greater mystery is one of relationship and coming to a place of acceptance of all parts of your being. The natural energy of the Sun, that of shedding great light on whatever is in its spectrum is now poured into the earthy realms of what strives towards stability and structure through the power of great strength. This solar month has maximum potential for firming up what means we use and how we define ourselves as physical beings. The caution is one of remaining too long in standing your ground and holding onto to false definitions simply because you do not wish to disrupt the comfort of the status quo.

The Element of Earth

The energy of Earth is creation of a solid foundation and deep connection to the physical world. Expressed through the sign of Taurus, Earth presents in a stalwart and at times stubborn approach, remaining steadfast and strong in conviction and opinion. Earth is the energy of the magnet that attracts to itself what it sends forth. Because earth defines the manifest world and all that is contained within, it draws to itself the power of manifestation itself and with the bolster of the Sun’s light and strength enhancing this fertile potency what is yielded becomes both the defender and the aggressor for what can be accomplished in manifest creation.

A Fixed Modality

The energy of the Fixed signs is one of stability that occurs in natural response to the initial burst (Cardinal modality) of movement disbursed by the sign preceding it. This holding space becomes one of permanence that functions then as the center point of synthesis and refinement of what has come into its field of dynamic form.

Hold steady
Stand strong
Be the container.

Hold fast the
Energy that pours
Forth relentlessly.

The Middle Way
Proves firm and true
What generates inside
Soars above and
Reaches deeply below.

Draw up its strength
Pull down its light
Draw in its anchor of center
And allow to pour forth that
Which will be renewed.

The Fixed energy of Earthy Taurus is that of the place of grounding the fires that had been sparked and set anew by Aries. The symbol of the Bull for the Taurus is aptly expressed as holding its ground, ensuring that what comes into its space will receive the appropriate attention and focus of energy to bring it into manifestation. This attribution also relates to those things which connect us most deeply to the natural world and all that is gifted through physical manifestation. It is for this reason that all of the earth signs of the zodiac hold key to mastery of the mundane. Finances and those things that are acquired through our physical efforts are all enhanced by the natural fertility and potential for manifest expression that the Earth itself holds.

The Next Step

Taurus is the second sign of the Zodiac and following in the
enthusiastic outpouring 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. Being a fixed sign, its nature is to hold strong and steady, albeit, immovable at times. This center of the road strength can generate a stable base from which growth of material endeavors flourishes and survives even in the most turbulent of circumstances. The symbol for Taurus is a bull. The choice of this particular animal gives great clue to the innate qualities of Taurus. Strength, sure footedness and earthiness by virtue of its sheer size offer the potential for an individual, who is stalwartly and commanding in their presence.

Venus is the Ruling Planet of Taurus. The energy of Venus is that of beauty, harmony and awakening 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 natural love of beauty and great sense of aesthetic style enhance the home life and material endeavors of Taurus.

* Read more about the dynamics of Venus in:
The Temple of Venus

Preparing the Way

At this time of the year in the Northern hemisphere, we see the potency of Taurus expressed as the earth greens Herself in preparation for Father Sun’s waxing heat. The vibrancy of the Sun and its strength of Taurean energy pours deeply into the earth itself. The work of Aries (and the Spring Equinox) was one of seeding and attracting the sun’s light and flame into the earth to enable the first buds to sprout. Taurus is the earthy container that will provide the anchor and prepare the way for each seed to blossom in its own way.

In the Southern Hemisphere the emphasis is the reversed as all make preparation for the waning of the Sun’s light. What had begun to be gathered as balanced harvest (The Fall Equinox) is now turned into the manifest forms of what will be sustenance during the winter. Grain becomes bread, vegetables are stored and preserved. What is taken from the earth and the fires of energy expended in reaping its product is stabilized and the planned rest of remaining steady in resolve is taken as the container is formed for productive result.

Both are held in the steadiness and determination of Taurus and the strength and enlivening of Father Sun directing its focus. The goal is one of preparing and stabilizing the way for the next phase of growth and expansion when the Sun transits next into the Mutable sign of Gemini.

A Fiercely Beating Heart

This solar month is one of opportunity to dig deeply into the stores of your own resolve, purely for the sake of safeguarding and building upon them the foundation of what you hold as your place in the physical world. In the chronology of the Zodiac, this is the growth from the impetuosity of Aires fires into one of growing stability through the anchoring of Taurus. This is the work of the adolescent; learning their impact on the physical world that surrounds them and the point of holding firm in what they believe to be true of the world. This is also the time of testing what you know of your physical nature. The questions of the adolescent seek to know what each day will bring in experience. The future is one of trying on various costumes through play and imagination. These are the stuff that becomes the plans for what is finally settled upon as the child matures and readies for college and work. The mud pies created become the culinary delights of the master pastry chef. The fairy crown of leaf, dirt and flowers becomes the fashionista’s desire as designer sets to cloth the garments of the imagination.

And, so in the spirit of Taurus and as we call forth the energy of the Sun as it continues its zodiacal cycle, I repeat the invocation that opened the Gate to this Temple. As you read through it think back to your adolescence and the stubborn and at time rebellious qualities you exhibited. Think back to digging into the earth searching for those gems of worm and insect or planting your first garden. Think back to the experience of full, healthy physical body running endlessly in the pure joy of anticipation of what lay beyond. Think back to the smells of the fresh damp soil as you rest lying in soft grass looking up at clouds moving swiftly overhead and feeling the fiercely beating heart that affirmed your youth, physicality and life. This is your strength and your foundation as you re-anchor and invoke the Solar power of this month in Taurus as you awaken those fires of RA within your own Earth’s center core.

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: Sunday, April 26th.

Sun in Taurus: A Place of Anchor on the Tree

The Manifest Refinement of Heart and Will

Posted in Auspicious Days, Full Moon, Lunar, Magick, Uncategorized, Waxing Moon with tags Air, astrology, cardinal, celestial, cosmic, earth, Eclipse, Esbat, esoteric writings, Lunar, Lunar Eclipse, polarity on April 14, 2014 by themagickalpen

Image Credit: NASA Photo Gallery

April 15.2014

Full Moon in Libra

3:42a.m. (EDT)

Total Lunar Eclipse Begins 3:07am (EDT)

The Moon is Full in the early morning hours of April 15th in the astrological sign of Libra with a total Lunar Eclipse punctuating the energetic experience. This combination offers the potential for some very powerful and deep spiritual work.

A Lunar Eclipse occurs when the Moon passes through the shadow of the Earth as it is lit from behind by the Sun. The usual orbit of the Moon is just far enough off the Earth/Solar plane that the Moon makes its journey avoiding the shadow of the Earth casts. The eclipse places the Sun directly behind the Earth as the Moon moves into the position within Earth’s shadow. This early morning eclipse will be a Total Eclipse meaning that the Moon passes through the entirety of the Earth’s shadow from 3:07am to 4:25am. The refraction of light occurring from the filtering of earth’s atmosphere as light shines directly from the Sun behind the earth causes a natural progression of changing the moon’s coloring from the creamy white of a normal Full Moon to a reddish brown coloring of the moon as the eclipse event takes place. The Moon returns to its milky whiteness as She basks in the full shining of Sun upon her face.

For lots of great information about eclipses and, in particular this eclipse go to: mreclispse.com. This site has everything you want to know about the astronomy of Solar and Lunar Eclipses.

If we consider the spiritual implications of the eclipse energy we are able to call upon the energies of Will (Sun), Manifestation and Foundation (Earth) and intuitive Heart (Moon). In the placement of the Lunar Eclipse, Earth receives the direct outpouring of the sun’s energy as its reflective back light of emanation towards the Moon’s surface. Divine Will (our Spiritual Sun) is brought to a place of manifest and practical use as we, as physical beings, are especially enlivened by its solar principle and dynamic of energy.

The reflection of this shadow of light emanates out towards the moon in her phase of fullness through the filter of Earth (and opportunity to bring it to manifestation). This refraction of sun’s light refines the matters of heart and quickens in a subtle yet profound way of application as it passes through the earth shadow of our form imbuing the Full Moon energy with the hidden resources of what lay at our inner sun’s core. Drawing this light shadow that holds the mysteries of our internal lunarscape into the intuitive waters that flow in the intermittent dimming (the frequency of the Lunar Eclipses) of its full potential provides the space of accessing those qualities that strengthen the aspects of our manifest nature that lay in the shadows and enliven these by emotional and intuitive insight so they may be used in a more practical manner as they are brought to the fullness of their potential. Who we are in the strength (Sun) of our manifest form (Moon) and the will we call forth empowers these deep waters of our intuitive nature (Moon).

Now, add the astrological component. The Moon is Full in the Cardinal sign Libra. Libra is depicted as the Scales of balance. Refinement and love of the intellectual nature of calibrating the scales of balance to maintain that balance is the type of mental gymnastics the Air (Intellect/mind) sign of Libra enjoys. The Full Moon ushers in the highest potential and peak of whatever energy it is reflecting, so heart infused by refined emotions and intuition honed by informed trial and error are at hand.

The emphasis of balance that Libra exerts is enhanced by this Total Lunar Eclipse. The polarities of Male (Sun) and Female (Moon) that are present in the opposition of Sun and Moon that occurs during a full moon are both subdued in their synthesis at the level of manifestation(Earth). In this case, the extremes of the natural flow of Sun and Moon are brought to the mid-point of Earth, standing as synthesizer of the two. This is the purposeful and modulated conversation between a pair of opposites (Sun and Moon) that has similar goal and each is willing to compromise (Libra) in its application and civilized assertion of its needs and desires so that something reflecting the harmonious (Libra) values of each may be initiated (Cardinal Modality) towards manifest form (Earth).

In spiritual working, making full use of these varied dynamics of a Full Moon and a Lunar Eclipse offers opportunity to reshape and refine what we think about those qualities of heart that lie just below the surface of what we normally express to inform our human experience. This action allows the calling forth of the informed intent to bring them into a state of balance and harmonious expression in our daily affairs. And, all works collaboratively in a balanced state knowing that strength of Divine Will (Sun) continually flows in support as the back lighting for the ebb and flow (Moon) of these energies as the foundational (Earth) work that the shadow of our inner creative Will to Manifest brings to the surface.

Other Resources:

NASA/Eclipses
First Total Lunar Eclipse of 2014: The Complete Skywatcher’s Guide

The Magick of Aries

Posted in Magick, Solar, The Temple of the Moon, The Temple of the Sun, Uncategorized with tags Aries, candle magick, celestial, Esbat, esoteric writings, fire, Leo, Lunar, new moon, Waning Dark Moon on April 13, 2014 by themagickalpen

We conclude our time in the Temple of the Sun with some suggestions of how to use the astrological sign of Aries in magickal endeavors. Whatever we apply Aries energy to is going to receive a fresh push, a burst of life and stimulating flow.

Solar Month Magick

Enhances new endeavors, catalyze to action what has been inert and create a dialogue between the
spark of flame and what becomes the blaze that stands in the spotlight

I am currently teaching a class on operative Magick and one of the timelines discussed was that of using a solar month to enliven the workings of a spell. Harnessing that solar energy in a specific astrological sign can be used effectively to strengthen and focus on the light bearing qualities of the astrological sign it is in.

Making use of Aries energy in this way is bi-fold in its application. It is the starting sign of the Solar Year and brings its fiery energy in harmonious sync with lighting the flame under any action that needs more fire. This approach can be used for short term projects, but is most effective for long term workings. A goal such as wanting to become more courageous and spontaneous in actions taken benefits from beginning its cycle while the Sun is in Aries.

Similar to the New, Full and Waning cycles of the Lunar Month, beginning the working in the Solar Month of Aries would be the burst of newness, the dawn of awakening and the action of a fresh start. Using the cycle of Fire and those astrological signs of that element the next point of bolstering the energy would be during Leo. The Solar Month of Leo stands as the Full phase of the Fiery energy, ripe and full with warmth, heat and brilliance of light and vitality. The waning and flexible energy of Sagittarius (the last of the Fire signs) would serve as the point of networking, reaching out in a more dynamic way and stepping fully into the action of expansive outreach. As each of these Solar Months take hold the energy of the working is bolstered, active 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

Enhances the healing and cooling properties of Aries catalyzing action

Use of Lunar energy and the astrological sign of Aries provides a principle of firing up the emotional waters. Workings that desire the goal of greater independence within a situation that often feels oppressive and limiting aptly make use of Aries’ qualities of individualism and dynamic expression. Although healing is not the first thing that comes to mind with Aries energy, working under the care and movement of the Moon cycles the healing that occurs is similar to revealing the fresh pink skin underneath a wound that has been cleaned and cauterized.

The New Moon of Aries can set up the foundation for beginning the process of strengthening your will and the assertion of it in a productive way for Self (Aries rules the house of the Self). The Full Moon in Aries can be called upon to light the way and for the correct actions to be taken to fully envision yourself standing in a place of greater power and authority over your life. And the waning moon’s energy may be drawn upon to release those false starts, and unproductive tantrums of aggression that may occur as you struggle to free yourself from feeling bound.

Some Additional Astrological properties of Aries

Keywords: Initiator, Pioneer, Head-strong, Active, Assertive, Impulsive, Dynamic, Enthusiasm, Independence

The Archetype: The Warrior is the archetype associated with Aries. This is the action of persistence and pushing ahead as new paths are carved out.

Rules Astrological House: The 1st house of the Zodiac, the “House of Self”. This is the house of the Ascendant and represents the persona you allow others to see. In keeping with the attitude of Aries youthful nature, this is the space of first impressions that sets the tone for what follows. Workings that relate to the singular individual and transformation and expression of who you perceive yourself to be are enhanced using Aries’ energy.

Color: Red, clear, vibrant and pulsing with light. “Seeing red” calls to mind quick response, readiness to charge ahead and a rising of the emotions (often equated with anger) to the boiling point of reaction vs. response. We can also make use of the vibrancy of this color as correspondence for Aries in remembering the life sustaining properties of blood, the history and story it carries and the encoding that connects us with all of humanity. We can experience the flush of red on blushing cheek and arousal of red beating heart and stimulated sex in the state of orgasmic release.

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.

Other Posts to Re-read:

New Moon in Aries: Temple of the Sun

Fire it Up

Waning Moon in Aries: Temple of the Moon

Day Twenty: It’s Getting Hot in Here

Day Nineteen:A Quick Step

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Sparks Flying! Mars Alignment

Posted in Auspicious Days, Solar, Uncategorized with tags Air, Aries, astrology, celestial, cosmic, earth, esoteric writings, fire, Libra on April 8, 2014 by themagickalpen

Tuesday, April 8.2014

Today there will be a rare alignment of Mars, Earth and the Sun. As each moves to their respective place within this line of energetic dialogue, the energy of each individually becomes more a singular stream of flow holding their unique coding of transformative change. The astronomy behind the alignment is not my area of expertise nor my focus, but what significance and use of its energies spiritually are.

With any alignment (or aspect) we have the energies of all of the players acting in a dynamic way with one another. In this case, we have two attributed to the element of Fire (Mars/Sun) and one holding the center point of grounding and space of manifestation (Earth). In the earlier posts for this solar month we found that Mars is the ruling planet of the current solar month’s astrological sign of Aries. We’ve also discussed the opportunities held when the planet of reference is in the opposite astrological sign from whatever is the dominant energy. Mars is currently in the astrological sign of Libra- the sign of opposition to Aries. So, there is a natural tension in this alignment between the Solar Month of Aries and its zodiacal ruling planet of Mars in the sign directly opposing it.

The Sun in Aries is approximately mid-point in its cycle and the energy is one that is maturing from the earlier degrees of placement when the sun began its transit through this sign. There is a growing stability that comes from the calming down of impetuous and newly begun action and the realization of its greater impact on something more than itself as it gains momentum and the past experience to draw its lessons from.

Mars, in its place of opposition, is in the astrological sign of Libra, the Scales of Balance. Libra is of the element of Air, which provides the balance of conscious will to action in contrast to Aries primal and fiery urge to action. When tempered with information the Ariean desire to do, to move, to achieve can be placed exactly as needed and the Mars energy of assertion can be called upon to form the fires of courage and determination necessary for follow through. Both draw upon the brilliance of Sun’s light to infuse their desired goal with the structure and the furnace to allow this fire to build in both an electromagnetic way of attraction and flares of release as the rays of illumined effort pour out as residual.

Additionally, Mars has been retrograde since March 1st and remains so until turning direct on May 19th. Essentially, wherever we normally vacillate between what is our productively assertive self and what becomes aggressive brutality (whether inflicted upon ourselves or others) has been put to the test. Those moments when we have felt the fires rise and anger take the reins or felt our faith and truth in action guide the way towards affecting change through purposeful intent have been the intensity of Mars exacting its scrutiny upon our will. Change is not an easy road and ultimately something must always be left by the wayside or trampled in its wake but this is Mars prime directive and the results if its energy is applied justifiably can be those that raise the Spirit of humanity and the cornerstones of an evolved collective consciousness.

Earth in alignment between the two, becomes the place of grounding and haven from the potent dynamics of electrical current generated from the tension between the Sun and Mars. Earth holds the key to the mystery of manifesting what the creation fires of willful creation give birth to. If called into action and we allow our physical state of being to be transformed by the potent flames of will and illumined strength, the result is one of sparks flying and the tool of transformation is applied and the welding of what becomes our foundational armor of courage, action, and infused will towards manifest goal and desire.

I see this as a time to allow the space of courage within myself to let those fires that have been urging me towards action to take hold. To allow the flow of balance between what I desire most and what my informed route of acquisition will be. How will you allow opposites to attract and the sparks to fly as you plug into the cosmic motherboard?

A Little Gem Of Information:

We do not normally give consideration to what astrological sign the EARTH is in when we look at natal charts, etc. This is largely because our perspective of the heavens and what is contained is from the perspective of looking up from planet Earth. IF we lived on Saturn or Mars, Earth would be a relevant component. Nonetheless, there is an interesting dynamic that is used in Esoteric Astrology and the Earth and its astrological signs. To calculate its sign is as simple as knowing that there is exactly a 180-degree opposition to the Sun. Meaning that since my natal Sun is in Aquarius, Earth in my chart is in Leo, the sign directly opposite.

Why am I bringing this up? Because Mars is in the sign directly opposite the Sun in Aries. And, Earth, which is art of this trio is also in the opposing sign to Aries. This means, Mars (Will) and Earth (Manifestation) are in collaboration in the sign of Libra, striving for informed balance of will and action. Earth then becomes the interface and ultimate place of refining and bringing to equilibrium the dialogue between two states of force (Mars and the Sun) that hold the potential for resolution through manifest form (Earth).

A basic article of astronomical explanation can be found here:

Rare Sight: Mars, Earth and Sun Will Align

The Mars Retrograde:

Waxing Moon-Talking Waters

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Sun in Aries: New Life on the Tree

Posted in Magick, Solar, The Temple of the Sun, Uncategorized with tags astrology, cardinal, celestial, cosmic, esoteric writings, fire, Qabalah on April 6, 2014 by themagickalpen

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

Aries on the Tree

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

Each of the Sephiroth and connecting Paths of the Tree hold 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 astrological sign of Aries.

Aries and Mars

The Ruling planet of Aries is Mars. On the Tree of Life, the sphere of Geburah holds the pure energy that is the active principle of Mars. The work of Geburah is one of culling and release of what no longer serves. If we think of this in application to Aries and the youthful energy exemplified, we could equate this description with the impetuous nature of youthful energy, and in this state of impetuosity viable matter may be discarded and overlooked as not be relevant. To some degree this speaks to lack of experience about what something of value looks like and some is just simply the by-product of “haste makes waste”. The paradox of this is that often what unintentionally is left behind becomes the base that is used to create something incredibly useful. Sometimes we need to see with the eyes of one whose only directive is to enjoy the process as they go along and be utterly amazed by where it leads.

Geburah is also attributed as having the Vision of Power. Aries, when infused with the boldness and brilliance of the Sun’s energy can become the great catalytic force that runs through the initial quickening of inventive action, mind and heart. The power that is exerted can be directed and focused in a specific way to be used as a tool of inspiration. Think of the captivating power of a newly born baby and the feelings evoked in celebration of this new life. Think of the encouraging power of one who so utterly and faithfully believes in your success that it becomes your self-fulfilling prophecy, carefully and skillfully reinvented with each new achievement.

The 22nd Path of Connection: Aries/Mars and the Sun

The spheres of Geburah (Mars) and Tiphareth (The Sun) are connected by the 22nd Path on the Tree of Life. Each of the connecting paths on the Tree acts as the bridge of synthesis between the spheres of connection and their pure essence. Additionally, each path has a Hebrew Letter designated as expression of its energy. The Hebrew Letter for the 22nd Path is Lamed, which means Ox-Goad. An ox-goad is a tool used to prod the animal towards movement so that the necessary work may be accomplished. This is the action achieved through the balance of rest and work; providing the space for energy to build and the space for that energy to be used productively towards an end goal. This is the path of conduit that draws from each of its sources and sets up the dialogue of beginning between the Mars energy of Aries (Geburah) and the Sun (Tiphareth). The result is expressed something like this:

The ebullient (Cardinal modality) outpouring of Aries’ kick-starter dynamic is tempered, synthesized and reformatted within the energy of the Sun’s strengthening and structure (Tiphareth). And, once having received the application of the Sun’s light returns back into Aries’ fuel line as premium grade readying the vehicle of its transport to blaze those new trails, recharged, energized and ever mindful of the new horizons ahead.

Another Path of Expression: Aries on the 15th Path

The astrological sign of Aries, proper, is placed on the 15th Path, which connects the spheres of Chokmah (Wisdom) and Tiphareth (Beauty). We now know more of Tiphareth’s (Sun’s) energy on the Tree and this, in relation to the maturity of Chokmah is what the goal of aspiration is for Aries as it comes to its later degree before transiting into the stability of Taurus. The Hebrew Letter placed on the 15th Path is Heh, which means Window in English. A window allows light to pass through it or to be reflected from its surface. We may stand safely behind it, remaining hidden if desired, from the rest of the world and stand as observer or call out to passers-by making our presence fully known.

We now see Aries as the beginning of the zodiacal wheel and have equated that with the chronological expression of infancy through early childhood. At some point the young child develops a greater acumen of the impact of their actions and learns to control (albeit, still not completely) some of their earlier impulses as they begin to interact from a broader knowledge that others have needs as well. The placement of Aries upon this path forms the initial stages of understanding that we are part of something larger than ourselves and as such we must begin the steps towards building the more mature foundations of who we will become. The wisdom of Chokmah is one that realizes that we should not abandon the enthusiasm, desire and inquisitiveness of our younger selves but should instead use that as the initial impulse to synthesize and bring to greater clarity the knowledge and wisdom of our shining selves (Sun) in the full glory of the openness and receptivity of the child (Aries).

In Conclusion:

There is much I have omitted here regarding the Spheres and Paths of the Qabalistic Tree; especially through the lens of the Solar Year and the potential held in the melding of the two disciplines of Astrology and Qabalah. As we move through the year, you will have at its end the basic tools of knowledge to pursue further study of either or both as you wish. And, in the spirit of Aries there is always another new experience to be explored, tested and added towards your growth into a mature and whole spiritual being.

Next Sunday’s Post: The Magick of Aries

Resources:

The Magickal Pen: Geburah’s Might

WitchVox: 13 Keys: The Beauty of Tiphareth

WitchVox: 13 Keys: The Might of Geburah

13 Keys to the Qabalistic Tree of Life

Reading:

The Inner Chamber Series. R. Fennelly

Volume Two: Poetry of the Spheres (2013)
Volume Three: Awakening the Paths (2014)

Order at author’s website: Robin Fennelly

New Moon in Aries-Fire It Up!

Posted in Esbat, Lunar, Magick, The Temple of the Sun, Uncategorized on March 30, 2014 by themagickalpen

March 29.2014
2:45 p.m.

There are several aspects that weigh into the decision of how to effectively use a particular moon’s energies in a given astrological sign. Each, independently offers its own color and dynamic and when purposefully combined in a way to be supportive of each other the results are much more cohesive and potent in their efficacy and success. The supportive structure of dynamic polarities is already in place with the phase of a New Moon. Sun (masculine) and Moon (feminine) are in the same astrological sign forming an energy that is united in its efforts and acting one upon the other to inform the intent. Both are expressing the astrological sign’s gifts, one with the strength, stability and force of the masculine and the other held in flowing intuitive and creative grace of the feminine. Additionally, the New Moon falls approximately mid-point in the growing potency of the Solar month. If we think in terms of chronological cycle, this is the mature and stable Father (Sun) offering his protective support and strength as the Maiden (New Moon) sets off on her first explorations of what is possible.

Let’s take a look at the ingredients for making full use of all that is within the scope of that potential:

The Moon’s Natural Energy:

The Moon represents water, emotion and intuitive nature. So anything that is added as the overlay on this is going to be of most potency in connecting to the ebb and tides of the emotional, intuitive nature with the intent of accessing the natural flow of these waters. Using lunar energy is an opportunity to tap into the energy of movement. Water flows and moves and if not becomes stagnant. The Moon calls us to ride the seas of energetic exchange and to be mindful that we provide proper container for that flow; largely by our own efforts of carving out the path of greatest potential much like the waters erode the edge of the shoreline or smooth the rough edges of stones placed in its way of continued flow. Remember the earlier analogy of the Father and Maiden. Each new inroad made by the flow of the Maiden’s desire to expand and grow is shored up and made stable by Fathers loving interaction. His is the container that She may extend and move through with surety and safety.

The Moon’s Phase:

There are many ways to honor the cycles of lunar phase; some being formal ritual (Esbat) and others being simple meditation or sitting under the light of the Full Moon and breathing in the energy and beauty of its force. For most, the Full Moon is the easiest to connect with given the visual presentation that graces a night sky if weather is clear. The phases of New and Dark Moon are not visible in presentation and connecting to these energies requires a fully open and responsive sense of awareness and being able to feel what cannot be seen yet is potent, viable and present nonetheless.

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.

The next point of focus is which of the astrological signs the moon phase flows through. Some considerations would be (in this case, Aries):

Keywords and Energy of the Astrological Sign:

Aries= enthusiasm, assertiveness, experimentation and fresh perspective

The Element of the Astrological Sign:

Fire= a call to action, will, transformation and ultimate change

The Modality of the astrological sign:

Cardinal= the process of Initializing, catalyzing and crafting the beginnings of whatever this modality is applied to

Putting It All Together

Workings for a New Moon Ritual in Aries might include:

A dedication to a new plan of action

Breaking through the barriers that hold you from taking those first steps

Firing up your enthusiasm and asking for a new course of action to be revealed

Adding additional bolster to projects requiring deeper commitment of will and action

Meditations may include:

Sitting openly and receptively to enliven the spiritual will to right action

Calling the child in you to see with new vision and insight

Visioning to seek the place within that burns with the newly quickened fires that require tending and care as they are brought forward into the light of the Full Moon and the maturing of the Solar Month.

Enter into these workings with the knowledge that you are anchored and strengthened by the outpouring of the Sun acting collaboratively on what you most desire. This is both a blessings and a caution as the combustible nature of sun and sign being in sync must also rely on the soothing, healing and newly warmed (Aries) waters of the Moon. The underlying current that flows through this New Moon is that of the first strike of a match; the crisp intent of the initial spark and the resultant flame that serves to Fire up the Will to become the blaze of new making.

Flame burns brightly
In milky white orb
Of New Moon’s darkness.

Innocence carries the
Lantern of desire’s
New goal and flame
Ebb and flows as
Will follow youth’s course.

One final striking and
The spark takes hold
A tiny flash of hope
That will blaze new trails.

Other Readings:

Temple of the Moon: Ritual of Dedication

Next Posting: Sunday, April 5th.

Sun in Aries: New Life on the Tree

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Birth Rite: The Sun in Aries

Posted in The Temple of the Sun, Uncategorized with tags Aries, astrology, Autumnal Equinox, cardinal, celestial, Equinoxes, Vernal Equinox on March 23, 2014 by themagickalpen

Sun in Aries
3.20.2014

Planetary Ruler: Mars

Seed of New Beginnings
Time of sweet release
Breath of untainted newness
Tiny embers strewn beneath soft
Blanket of newborn’s down.

Fingers dipping excitedly-
Eagerly in all that can be found
Anticipation of new discoveries and
Child-like innocence fuels the
Thirst and inquisitive nature.
Of one who seeks a place
At the table of life’s experience.

All turn towards the promise
of life restored anew
And the quaternary of balance
infused with Luna’s light opens
the causeway after the challenge
of being is sealed.

All hold pause and heed the warning
Of youth’s impetuous step
The fool, signaling the issuance of
Travesty or achievement.

And, in the space of quiet calm
Between the contractions of labored new birth
The Universe holds vigil
As star and planet follow
Evolution’s plan~ held in the rapture
Of consummate union.

Sparks of will come bursting forth and
Sphere of cobalt radiance crowns slowly
Mother Universe suckles youth at her breast
As Father Time waits patiently
The Celestial wheel moves once again
Within the primordial womb.

The astrological sign of Aries is one of the element of Fire and the Cardinal Modality. Its planetary ruler is Mars and it holds the distinguished position of being the first sign of the zodiac. We learned a bit about the natural energy of the Sun, itself and its fiery nature so it is fitting that a catalyzing astrological Fire sign being expressed through the eye of the Sun would be the dominant energy of Spring (Northern Hemisphere) or Fall (Southern Hemisphere).

The Element of Fire

The energy of Fire is will to Action. In Aries this fire takes the form of the first sparks of flame that are not quite at their fullest, but hold the seed potential, and if directed and guided will go on to fuel the larger blaze. This energy is the fuel that powers exploration, enthusiasm and taking a look from a freshly enlivened perspective. Aries is the quintessential path of action bringing the dynamics of each step taken in the spirit of blazing new trails and enjoying each of the paths taken.

A Cardinal Modality

The energy of the Cardinal Modality is one of beginnings. This is the space of the bubbling up of the tiny fount of waters that pushes through to carve out what will become a steady flow. This is the space of the first stirrings of a breeze that gathers strength of force and becomes the winds that move strong and palpably. Cardinal energy of Fiery Aries is that of the first sparks that seek to become a larger fire that will warm, provide light and clear the way for new experience. As with any spiritual fire, in the application of Aries dynamics there is often a large boost of energy, will and action at the onset. This is the enthusiasm of newness and for this enthusiasm to remain viable, the wisdom of growing maturity (remember, Aries is the youth of the zodiac) must take hold and guide the course towards creating those fires of transformation (the next Fire Sign, Leo).

Let’s Begin

Aries is the first sign of the Zodiac, and in holding this starting place can be equated with new life and the heralding of potential that has not yet acquired the experience of years and maturity in outlook. This is not to say that those under the influence of this sign are immature and lack experience, but rather that they bring a certain level of newness and innocence to any endeavor. The energy of Aries is that of looking out from the eyes of a curious child who sees multiple possibilities and new adventure everywhere bringing an inquisitive nature and youthful energy. Having the quality of a Cardinal Modality bolsters this enthusiastic nature for beginning new projects and looking at things through a fresh (and not yet biased) perspective.

Mars is the Ruling Planet of Aries. This is the combustible force that propels this sign forward. It is a justifiable assertion of itself that puts the plan in motion and irrational aggressiveness that serves as the tantrum of a child wanting attention and not receiving what is needed, before they can move on to their next creative project.

The Balance of the Equinox

At this time of the year we see the Fires of Aries expressed in two forms; both ultimately striving towards that state of balance (the Equinoxes) where there is ample pause to allow the fires to take root. In the Northern Hemisphere we celebrate the balance of the Spring Equinox. This the drawing of the heat and flame into the earth to enable the first buds of what will be the abundance of beauty, life and food. In the of Southern Hemisphere the emphasis is on the Fall Equinox and the beginnings of the harvest. These fires are the driving force towards the action of selectiveness that spurs on the will to action before what product should be harvested withers and dies. Both are balanced by the healing of night and the flame of day as the work of Aries youthful energy rallies towards new growth or provides the back bone for the work of reaping.

Birth Rite:

This solar month is one of opportunity to stoke the fires of a new cycle. We have the triplicity of Fire all working collaboratively:

The Youthful Desire of Aries carving new paths
The Potency of Father Sun strengthening our will
The Sage application of Fiery Mars that drives us towards purposeful action

And, so in the spirit of Aries, I repeat the invocation that began this exploration. As you read through it think back to your younger years and the raw enthusiasm that you felt as each day brought a new adventure and opportunity to learn something new. Think back to the fires that burned fresh and clear as you felt invincible and powerful with youthful vibrancy and energy. This is your birth rite and as you read through the writing of your own story remember the Solar power of this month as Aries catalyzes your inner fires of RA.