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The Speed of Light!

Posted in Lunar, New Moon, The Temple of Venus with tags Air, aquarius, astrology, Esbat, esoteric writings, fixed modality, gemini, Magick, new moon, Temple of Venus on January 30, 2014 by themagickalpen

New Moon in Aquarius
January 30.2014
4:30 p.m. (EST)

Sun in Aquarius

The Moon is New in the astrological Fixed Air sign of Aquarius today at 4:30 p.m. (EST). At the point of the New Moon in any given month the Sun is generally mid-way in its progression through the same astrological sign. We could think of this as Male (Sun) and Female (Moon), Strength and Ease, Action and Flow dancing in harmony with one another. These are but a few of the polarities that could be used, but the basic action is that of illuminating the depths of our intuitive selves. When we consider the Sun we think of dynamic and catalytic and combustible energy. The Moon we sense as flowing and flexible in its expansion and contraction. When Sun and Moon are in the same astrological sign at the time of the New Moon the Sun’s expression of that energy will be one of that holds the wisdom of the parent in its mid-cycle maturity. Lady Moon is just beginning her flow of the astrological sign’s energy and opens her floodgates of possibility knowing that it will be brought into the light of day to be strengthened and supported.

In this case the floodgates to be opened are ones of electrically charged and innovative Aquarian outpour. The mental prowess of Gemini, also a chatty air sign, slows in comparison to that of the mentally agile and attuned Aquarian. Although there is often the tendency to have what is stated get lost in translation, because of unintentional omission. The primary directive of the Aquarius energy is to see far and see wide, enabling the perception, assimilation and understanding of multiple streams of information and their varied outcomes. The omission comes as by product of the ability to process that information very quickly moving from A-Z at the speed of light and confidently arriving at a singular conclusion; deeming what came in between irrelevant, the only goal being to arrive at a productive and viable end.

Now, my writing may seem very mechanical, almost sterile and robotic in its approach and I am intentionally doing this to give you a feel for what it is like to be in the mind of a strongly aspected Aquarian. Information comes as streams of breezy download with barely a moment’s pause between. And, yes, I have a natal Aquarius Sun, which often makes it hard for me to understand why others do not see, what to me is the obvious and very logical conclusion. There is additionally, what is perceived as detached coldness about the decision making process. Aquarius has been given the distinction of being considered the humanitarian; but quite frankly that humanitarian label expresses itself in the ability to sacrifice the one for the greater good of the many. Again, this is formulated from seeing a bigger picture and potential outcome. And, although this does not necessarily make for an endearing individual, the need to know more to better serve trumps the usual pleasantries of social interaction.

Using the energy of an Aquarian Moon offers the ability to finely scrutinize while retaining the “heart” of the matter. The ability to apply a broader perspective to an emotional situation can often move those waters in a more productive way, albeit not always arriving at the same stream. The New Moon offers the impetus to get things going and to return to the beginning once again for a fresh look. Think of an Aquarius New Moon as an opportunity to upgrade your computer (Mind and thoughts- Airy Aquarius) to a quicker and more efficient processor that will ultimately make your work much easier and much more enjoyable (emotional engagement and Feelings- The Moon). Aquarius is of the Fixed modality, so whatever is upgraded, improved upon or given a jolt of fresh juice is going to be stable after multiple stages of synthesis, tweaking and modification. This is an optimal time to jump ahead in trying a new piece of technology that would ultimatly save you time and energy that could be directed elsewhere. Learning how to use a new device or online tool can be taken in the spirit of the New Moon and baby steps of beginning with the intent of giving it a go, and knowing that you can always go back to the status quo if you wish.

These are just a few of the general workings making use of an Aquarius New Moon:

Brainstorming ideas that would be of benefit to groups of people. Starting a new initiative or new charity.

Reaching out to others in a dynamic way to inspire them to take concrete and active steps towards a goal.

Formulating the plans that will underpin a new project.

Any magick that involves, science, creative problem solving, resolution of social conflicts, initializing action in what has become stagnant and archaic.

The social component to Aquarius has nothing to do with the feelings that being social brings. It is a means to an end in the quest to find out more about the world around us and the people in it. That is not to say that no emotional attachments are formed. Quite the contrary, it is usually because of the ability of being able to connect to another deeply and seeing that individual in the light of different perspectives that keeps Aquarius at arms length on the surface. New Moon energy makes use of this in deepening the understanding you have of why and how another acts and thinks, and then anchoring your feelings on the deeper knowledge of what makes that person tick. In this way you are seeing a more expansive and broader view and able to love (or despise) that person more deeply for who they truly are while acknowledging the potential of who they could become.

The Venus Retrograde stations Direct on Friday, January 31st and the last call to harness what has percolated during this time is at hand. Aquarius loves to sort through the most complex material to unravel the threads that have delayed action. The bolstering of the New Moon energy serves to propel your revelations found during this Venus retrograde forward. What results may appear to be intermingled and interwoven threads, but there is specific structure and order to the way in which it has been woven. The relationships you have decided to continue or renew and the way in which you relate to yourself and your personal gifts have opportunity to move into a new state of being carried on the dynamic energies of Aquarius Sun and Moon.

Woven through time
The electrical current
Flashes its intent as
It lights the way.

All has changed from
The beginning of this
Mental discharge and
The end product is the
Summation of all
Possible solutions.

The changing of the Ages
The rhythmic beat of time
Has shifted its focus and
Un-relentless in its purpose
Man has no other choice
But to be carried on the wings
His own making or remain
Asleep in the eye of the
Lightning’s storm.

Check out these previous posts from Temple of the Moon to see how the energy of Aquarius plays out in the phases of Full and Waning Dark Moon:

On A Clear Day You Can See Forever- Full Moon in Aquarius

Looking Further- Waning Moon to Void in Aquarius

New Moon-New Year 2014!

Posted in Esbat, Lunar, Magick, New Moon, Uncategorized, Venus with tags astrology, candle magick, capricorn, cardinal, cosmic, earth, Esbat, esoteric writings, fixed modality, Full moon, Magick, new moon, Saturn on January 1, 2014 by themagickalpen

January 1.2014 New Moon in Capricorn 6:14 a.m.

We kick off the New Year with the Moon New in the astrological sign of Capricorn- the Sea Goat. Capricorn is of the element Earth which gives its energy one of foundation, strength and the ability to manifest. It is a Cardinal sign meaning that its energy is one of initializing and acting as the first outpouring for what will be gathered into form as it flows into the Fixed sign of Aquarius on Thursday afternoon.

This timing offers a triple bolstering of new and vibrant energy to draw from. The first day of a New Year boasting a New Moon phase in a Cardinal (Beginnings) astrological sign. We are also still in the hold of a Venus Retrograde so, the opportunity to connect the re-balancing of heart (Venus) and weave that energy into the new paths available with a New Moon in an Earth sign are all supportive towards plummeting the depths (Capricorn- Sea) and sure-footedly scaling the heights (Capricorn-Goat) to lay the ground work for lasting and durable change.

Capricorn’s planetary ruler is Saturn, so structure, order and timeliness are keywords for accessing the sea-goat’s energy. Self-discipline creates the boundaries that can fertilize and inseminate the fertile ground of our manifest form. The aspect of determination in achieving the goal desired and the appropriate pacing of energy, focus and adequate time for expansion and contraction of that focus establish a rhythm and orderliness that ensures an outcome. Notice that I did not say positive, as the determination of whether the outcome is positive or detrimental is all in how discipline is applied and the correct timing for the planting of the seeds. A detriment of Capricorn is that the individual can get so caught up in the process; creating barriers and faulty structures that are self-perpetuated that what should be glorious success withers into frustrated repetition. This is where Saturn as the Gatekeeper of time exerts his will in stirring up the pot so it can move freely and of its own accord if the lessons are heeded.

A New Moon Working in Capricorn*:

Workings may include: career- ambition-organization- stabilizing- structuring

My intent for this New Moon (New Year) is one of building a solid and heart-centered foundation for personal growth this upcoming year.

I will light a white candle to illuminate my mind and thoughts as I reach deeply into the stores of memory. I will sit quietly and reflect on what I have carried forward from this past year. My achievements, my goals and those things that I did not quite hit the mark in the way I had hoped.

I will light a black candle as the fertile space of incubation and setting held within the mask of the New Moon’s shadow of veiling. I will draw from each of these memories the seeds of new planting to begin the fertile ground for this year. I will breathe my Intent and Will into this candle and these seeds of aspiration. I envision it as lit from within ready to shine fully and brightly at the next Full Moon.

So Mote it Be!

* A side note.

In astrology, each of the zodiacal signs rules a specific house (1-12) when placed in order around the flat wheel. Capricorn sits as ruler at the place of the Midheaven in the 10th House of the flat astrological wheel (This is the wheel that follows the order of the Zodiac from Aries in the 1st House counterclockwise around to Pisces in the 12th House and is not associated with anyone’s birth). The Midheaven is the point in the natal astrological chart where “you shine”. It is the space where recognition for achievement and success are held as potential. Capricorn carries this as latent energy wherever it shows up.

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The Temple of Venus – Last Call for Love!

Posted in The Temple of Venus, Uncategorized, Venus with tags Aries, astrology, cardinal, celestial, cosmic, Esbat, esoteric writings, fixed modality, Libra, Lunar, new moon, planetary days, planetary hours, Temple of Venus, Tuarus, Waning Dark Moon on December 27, 2013 by themagickalpen

We end our exploration of Venus taking a look at ways to incorporate its energy into our magickal workings. The flexibility of this planet and its ability to transform through relationships and the building of stable foundations is a staple of the human and spiritual connections we forge. Acting from a heart-centered (Venus) place brings balance and integrity to all workings. There are many ways to utilize Venus’ energy for Magickal workings and access its power:

Anything requiring harmony, balance and compassion:

• Relationships

• Finances

• Jobs

• Health

Some keywords for consideration:

• Matters of the Heart

• Structure

• Refinement

• Stability

• Values

• Balance

• Creativity

• Inspiration

• Justice

• Fertility

Daily Magick:

We can use Venus’ energy for empowering its given planetary day- Friday– and any important tasks that require collaboration and refinement. And, if we wish to be more specific in use, we can access Venus’ planetary hour of any given day and focus our intent for that time period on strengthening our relationships, accessing deeper emotional levels and realigning how we interact. This could be used in preparation for a business meeting or in navigating a challenging appointment. For more information about the Planetary Days and Hours, check out the post below:

Day 23- Temple of the Moon- Go Quietly in the Night

One of the actions of Venusian energy is that is awakening love through refinement. Placed in action upon the emotional self, there is great potential to reveal what truly matters in your life and what is just superficial infatuation. As physical beings we have great capacity for love and have the means to express that love in all of its manifest forms. This is the energy of attraction, relationships, love and beauty. Love is the key word here and its application to all of your endeavors. Self-love conquers self-doubts and fears and allows you to be receptive to drawing love to yourself. Love for another person forms a bond of relationship and the lesson of acknowledgement that you are not a singular being unto yourself. Maintaining a focus of love in all your interactions insures that you will assume the best nature in all with whom you interact and then allow for adjustment to be made accordingly to the depth of that interaction. When you stand in the place of this beauty and truth the choices that are made and the process of refining, analyzing and restructuring is guided by an inner strength that becomes the foundation from which all of your experiences unfold.

Solar/Lunar Magick:

Aligning with the phases of the Moon and Solar astrological cycles that have Venus as planetary ruler calls upon a gentle and flexible energy that can be further refined by using the lens of the element and modality of that astrological sign. Venus is the ruler of Taurus and Libra, so the opportunity here is to access the qualities of manifest foundations and stability (the Earth Quality of Taurus) infused and balanced by the desire for an informed (the Air Quality of Libra) heart-centered outcome. The collaborative effort of a Fixed Modality and Cardinal Modality primes an intent that has the ability to create structure for what will be newly conceived.

Solar Magick

During the astrological solar months of Taurus (April-May) and Libra (September-October) we have several weeks of Venus’ energy to be drawn upon in a steady stream of balanced and informed compassion made manifest and enlivened by the solar dynamics. The emphasis will be different with each. Taurus is elemental Earth bringing solid and fertile ground upon which to build new foundations. Libra is elemental Air and hones in on the inspired flow and movement of what strives towards beauty, balance and perfection.

You could effectively use this energy for a month long working to improve the ways in which you create relationships with others and the foundations from which these are built. This is also an excellent time to bring to light those things that “feed your soul and spirit”. What inspires you? And, where do you find beauty and harmony? The energy of Taurus will serve to manifest what you desire and the Libran energy will harmonize and refine it to mold to the specifications that fit just right.

This is a good time to use Venus infused by the solar energy for any longstanding disagreements or disputes. Taurus will help you hold your ground towards right action and anchor your decisions in concrete reality. And, Libra adds the dynamic of merciful justice (remember the Scales) and provides the opportunity for weighing the pros and cons before making final decision about the outcome. The energy of the Sun serves to light up those places that may have been murky and perhaps contributed to less than clear thinking spurring on discord. Remember, that any interactions that are truly heart-centered generally have the most productive (which could be positive or negative) outcome that is in the best interest of all. The application of Venus and the electromagnetic quality of the Sun sets up a circuit of like attracting like and responding in accord with the cosmic laws to the product of that attraction.

Lunar Magick

Lunar Magick follows the cycles of the moon as it waxes and wanes and makes use of that energy to enhance workings. To get you started here are some Moon phase basics:

Waxing and Waning

The Waxing Moon is the time between the New Moon and the Full Moon

The Waning Moon is the time between the Full Moon and the last day of the last quarter– just prior to the New Moon

Although Magickal working can be done at any time, there are specific times during the lunar cycle when your workings can be enhanced. One of the first considerations is what type of New Moon energy is used for beginning a working. It is the initial and quickening stage of what will become. What is planted here will determine the outcome at the time of fullness.

The Waxing of the moon, from New to Full, provides a crescendo or building effect

Full Moon energy is used to strengthen and support the apex of the working having reached a space of ripeness, maturity and readiness to be fully acted upon.

The Waning of the moon from peak of Full to the subsequent New Moon allows for release and diminishing of energetic effect

Dark Waning Moon energy is used as a time to release, cut away and make ready the soil for the planting of new seeds.

Venus’ energy can be applied when the lunar phase is in one of the astrological signs its rules – Taurus or Libra. Because the Moon cycles through each of the astrological signs in the course of a month, you can access both of these signs qualities. A working for setting up the fertile foundations of the working may be started during a Taurus Moon and balancing and refining those foundations could be emphasized when the moon moves into Libra. These are some of the types of workings that could be considered.

New Moon in Taurus/Libra – Venus Planetary Ruler – Workings may include:

Restructuring your values and taking concrete action towards maintaining and preserving them.
Reassessing what you consider home, family and those individuals that fill this space.
Work towards manifesting a sustainable relationship*

* Note: I am not talking about love spells or any working that has the intent of manipulating another to your will. That is unethical and not good practice. Instead, this work could take the form of acknowledging what is lovable within yourself, and then doing the appropriate work to bring these positive attributes to a place where you set forth the intent of attracting to yourself another.

Take a look at the posts below for the Waxing Moon in Libra for an idea of Venus’ influence through the filter of Libra.

Waxing Moon in Libra- Day 7 – Temple of the Moon – It All Balances Out

Waxing Moon in Libra- Day 8 – Temple of the Moon – Refining and Polishing

Full Moon in Taurus/Libra – Venus Planetary Ruler – Workings may include:

Bolstering and acknowledgement of the continued progress of any workings begun at the new Moon.
Acknowledging the aspects of yourself that have remained strong of purpose and mindful of balance in all things.
Strengthening the intent of harmonious interactions in all relationships.
Restoring harmony within a place of discontent or discord.

Take a look at the post below for the Full Moon in Taurus for an idea of Venus’ influence through the filter of Taurus.

Full Moon in Taurus – Stand By Me

Dark Waning Moon in Taurus/Libra- Venus Planetary Ruler – Workings may include:

Release of negative commentary about the self.
Release of what is not in harmony with continued growth of any workings begun at New Moon or weaknesses revealed at Full Moon.
Release of any stagnant or unproductive relationships.
Release of material hold that keeps you tied to unfulfilling relationships.

Take a look at the Post below for Waning Moon in Taurus and an idea of Venus’ Energy through the filter of Taurus.

Day 22 of Temple of the Moon- Holding Ground

To read more about Lunar and Solar Magick check out Lesson Nine from A Year and A Day on the Wiccan Path

Tarot:

The energy of Venus can be called upon to enhance a reading or as a tool for meditation and deeper reflection on the archetypal energy of the planet. The Key aligned with Venus is that of The Empress.

Key 3- The Empress

My children are many and I tend them

with loving care.

My wisdom born in the belly of the earth.

Within its mantle I sit in gentle repose.

I am fertility and creation

and through all that you see

I exert my natural will.

I am harmony and within nine stellar gates will

I open the radiance of light

held in my mental abode

I hold the key to love’s radiance and beauty

moves like water through

the verdant splendor

of my domain.

The Rider-Waite Deck depicts the Empress as one who has gained mastery over herself; emitting confidence and the abundance and beauty of true grace. She sits in calm repose- a beatific smile of promise and mystery gracing her countenance and all around her is the splendor and ripeness of the Earth. She is the expression of the High Priestess in the form of the Great Earth Mother. Where the High Priestess commands the Spiritual realms, the Empress is the Supreme Mother of the physical, earthly plane of manifestation. The Empress represents those instinctual and intellectual parts of self that are the Creatrix- not in the manner of destruction and tearing away to rebuild, but with the quiet assurance that all she creates will be borne of great patience and guidance from a Higher Power, and governed by the stability and foundation of Earth. The tablet at her feet bears the symbol of the planet Venus and feminine energy. She is at once Virgin, Lover and Mother. And within her womb is contained the promise of creation formed by the merging of Divine Love and Divine Wisdom.

In the Legacy of the Divine Tarot by Ciro Marchetti, The Empress is depicted as the fullness of feminine form and energy, pregnant and guarding all of life that she has overseen in birth previously. She holds the mystery of seasons and wields her energy through the elements. This is the balance and refinement of nature in a harmonious state of flow. This is the seductive energy that draws us towards those who can master the energy of the Empress.

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Energetic and Healing Practice:

In energetic and healing practice each of the planets aligns with specific areas of our subtle and physical anatomy. Each of the fingers on the hands is assigned a planet. Chakras and the Seven Sisters (Endocrine System) are each assigned a planetary energy. The implication here is affirmation of The Universal Law of Correspondence– As Above , So Below, As Within, So Without and the cosmic and celestial inter-connectedness of man and his world.

The Hands- Mudras

Within Eastern Practice, Mudras are described as hand positions. Each area of the hand has a reflex reaction in a specific part of the brain. A Mudra locks and guides energy flow and reflexes to the brain. The Mudras redirect the energy flow, linking the individual pranic energy with universal force. Each finger represents the energy of a planet, a determinate quality, and emotions. The thumbs represent the ego. (1)

Below is a picture of the Venus Lock Mudra. The mounds at the base of the thumbs represent Venus; sensuality and sexuality. (2)

VENUS LOCK MUDRA (2)

How:

For Men: Interlace the fingers with the left little finger on the bottom. Place the left thumb in the webbing between the thumb and index finger of the right hand. The right thumb presses the fleshy mound at the base of the left thumb.

For Women: The thumb positions are reversed and the right little finger goes on the bottom.

Effect: Channels sexual energy, promotes glandular balance, ability to concentrate easily.

Planet: Venus; sexuality, sensuality and balance.

Healing Work

Venus resonates with the heart chakra – the center of compassion and love. As you do your daily chakra clearing or meditation, engage the heart chakra with gentle focus and intent. Envision it filled with the energy of Venus and the ability to give and receive love, understanding and great compassion. Imagine the glyph of Venus placed at your heart center. Breathe into this space and fill it with the color vibration of emerald green. Breathe into this space and feel the expansion and opening of that center. Right action, mercy, justice, inter-connectedness and harmony all flow from this central space.

There is an interesting concept about the Intelligence of the Heart (3.) that refers to the concept that was explored by scientist and metaphysician, R.A Schwaller DeLubicz during his studies of Egyptian spiritual and alchemical practices. He speaks to the innate wisdom of the heart and its power towards mastery and synthesis of all parts of self in collaboration with the inspiration of creative pure mind.

When we attune to the energy of Venus we are calling upon the healing waters that refine and restore a sense of peace and balance to whatever has entered a state of dis-ease. These are the basic energies of the healer and the energy called upon to bring balance to the energetic systems. If we think of the fertility aspect of Venus, it is easy to conclude that the productive flow of its energy is always with intent of producing something of, yet separate from itself. Something more that is perfected. It is this fertility that dispels what ails and replaces it with what nurtures and inspires growth.

The glyph itself incorporates the circle of eternity, wholeness and the Cross of descent into matter, or as above so below (vertical line) and as within so without (horizontal line). From this center sphere of wholeness stable and structured energy flows to co-mingle with the upwards energy of matter and spirit. This is the ultimate expression of Venus; the ability to bring into the physical realm the downpour of all loving compassion, resilience and beauty in an eternal cycle of flow and receipt.

Auspicious Occasions:

Call on Venus to infuse romantic encounters with powerful seductive and attractive energy. Call upon Venus when love is most needed to quiet and soothe the heart that has hardened. Call on Venus to be present each day and to bless all of your interactions that they may be fruitful and all of your actions that they may be guided by a balanced desire and anchored in foundations which are infused to sustain and remain steadfast. Call upon Venus as you set out on this journey of humanity and life and let her supreme wisdom of the heart light your way.

These are but a few of the many ways to access and engage with the harmonious and healing energy of Venus. Be creative in your approach, allow your mind and thoughts to open to the possibilities and see how effortlessly you can attune to staying in communication.

I hope you have enjoyed our journey through the Temple of Venus and as always, I welcome comments and your experiences with these amazing Temples! I finish this post with a poem I wrote while attending a concert of Philadelphia Sinfonia that my daughter was playing in:

The music is held closely to my heart
It reverberates through the passages
And corridors passage of what lay within.

The vibration pushes against
Each door and the scared sound
Once being heard unlocks the
Most secret and secure of chambers.

Notes of breathless beauty
Flood my senses filling all of my
Being with arpeggios of light
That dance delicately into
The furthest and darkest corners.

Music fills my mind
The geometric visions unraveling and
Opening the currents of flow
Crystalline webs spun.
Each intent upon catching
Within its center the cosmic
Sustenance of the Soul.

Each note hangs as though
Suspended in mid-air
The point within the field
Of Divine Creation.

Each note in harmony
With the other creating
The urge of impulse that
Forms the threshold to the unknown.

The door to the great unseen
Flung open wide
As the key turns the lock
Sound, rhythm and vibration of
Energetic seed in consummate union
With the womb of sacred intelligence.

Music and mortal embrace
Resonance and harmonics
The essence of genetic and celestial being
And in the symphony of silence
Life becomes the progeny
Of creative emanation.

Resources:

1. The Secrets of Yoga

2.The Healer’s Journal

3. The Intelligence of the Heart posted on The Magickal Pen

Upcoming:

Wednesday – January 1.2014 – New Moon in Capricorn

February 2014- Sun in Aries – Join me in the Temple of the Sun

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The Temple of Venus-Stop! In the Name of Love!

Posted in The Temple of Venus, Uncategorized, Venus with tags astrology, capricorn, cardinal, celestial, cosmic, esoteric writings, fixed modality, Libra, Taurus on December 23, 2013 by themagickalpen

Venus began her cycle of Retrograde on Saturday the 21st at 4:53pm (EST). This is was also the day of the Winter Solstice and the longest night of the year to herald in the waxing of the Light from here forward until the Summer Solstice. Venus stations direct on January 31.2014 allowing plenty of time for her energy to be felt and acted upon. Although a Venus Retrograde does not take center stage in the same way that a Mercury retrograde does, the areas ruled by Venus gain in intensity and the call for reaching back is at hand. Primarily this will be in the areas of relationships and re-connection or disconnection through reevaluation.

Venus stationed in the astrological Earth sign of Capricorn which gives breadth and scope to the areas she shines her light brightest upon. If we take into consideration what we know about Venus so far and the elements of strength (Taurus) and refinement towards balance (Libra) we can use these attributes to bolster whatever areas of disruption and change that Venus reaches out towards. Her energy is feminine in nature and with that is a depth of intensity and introspection that brings great insights to the foreground regarding those people and things in our lives to whom we have given our hearts and our trust.

* See The Personal Note at the end of this post!

A Venus retrograde often brings the opportunity to reconnect with those who had in the past been part of our lives and enables us to reevaluate what they brought to nourish our sensibilities in the first place. This allows space to reassess their current value in potentially reintroducing their energy into our lives now.

Every 18 months or so a Venus retrograde will occur and will last approximately six – seven weeks. Astronomically, Venus us the brightest light in the heavens taking third place only to the Sun and the Moon. It is also the planet which is easiest to see with the naked eye and has an orbital path that varies very little (by approx. 2-4 degrees) in the movement along of its eliptical path. Let’s begin by taking a look at the scientific definition of a retrograde.

Astronomy 101: What is a Retrograde Motion?

An animation showing the retrograde motion of Mars in summer of 2003.
Credit: Eugene Alvin Villar

“Typically, the planets shift slightly eastward from night-to-night, drifting slowly against the backdrop of stars. From time to time, however, they change direction. For a few months, they’ll head west before turning back around and resuming their easterly course. This is “retrograde motion”. Though it baffled ancient astronomers, we know now that retrograde planets are an illusion caused by the motion of Earth.” Astronomer: Christopher Crokett (1.)

The Stations of Activity and the Zodiac

Astrologically, when a planet changes direction in its normal path of progression through the zodiac, this is called a “station”. The planet’s progress slows down in is orbit until it appears to pause in its motion giving the appearance of moving backwards. The Retrograde Station occurs when the planet begins this slowing down and seeming movement backwards. The Direct Station occurs when the forward motion of the planet begins again. Whatever astrological sign the planet retrogrades in gives added emphasis and more intensity to how the planet expresses its own energy now given a full and prolonged dose of the sign’s own specificities. These highly potent effects can be building or waning (depending on which end of the station you find yourself) for days prior or after. Much like, the concentrated effort needed in slowing down to come to a traffic light, pausing, and then having to carefully and incrementally apply enough gas to reach your top speed again.

Stop!

Hedonistic Pleasures and the Pursuit of Happiness

In previous posts I’ve talked about the dynamics of Venus and the natural strivings towards achieving beauty and pleasure from relationships and every facet of physical life and expression. Looking at this retrograde energy from the perspective of hedonistic philosophy, the “no holds barred” intent becomes prime directive. It is often from this place of pursuing the delights of sensorial gratification that the aspiration and pursuit of happiness is hoped to be found. For many, enthusiasm is replaced by disillusionment and boredom takes hold in the space of what is not truly satisfying at all levels. The happiness quotient dwindles and new ways of reviving that happiness have to be continually explored. This is the energy of Venus in full expression of her beguiling and seductive nature. The vacillation between boredom and excitement is just the tipping of the scales in the effort to achieve a place of balance where pleasure and happiness are co-creators of forming the life we wish to have. Retrograding Venus stirs the pot and forces a closer look at what gives us true joy and where we find balanced gratification. This exploration provides the new foundations that become the bar of measure and value of what fulfills until the next space of scrutiny.

Revamp and Refine Relationships

Venusian energy is one that allows deeper insight into the basic nature of the emotions and the foundations that we structure them upon. When Venus retrogrades this is the prime time to take a look at those emotional foundations and see if they have been built upon faulty ground. The house may have been constructed in accord with the owner’s specifications, but shifting ground will ever so slightly begin to erode away what keeps it in balance. This is the action of Venus retrograding. Shifting emotions and the addition and release of those relationships that we have created as our space of home and comfort may take on decidedly different functions and begin to shift ever so slightly either in the direction of ultimate release or a deepening of commitment. The results may be a complete overhaul and revamping of all our relationships so that the new structure becomes a different type of architectural support, complete with new venue and supportive resources.

Focus On The Self; So You Can Give Freely To The Other

The same energy of intense evaluation regarding emotions and things of the heart that guides a Venus retrograde is the foundational energy we can use to redefine our definition of the love we offer ourselves. If we cannot see ourselves as being loved and loveable, we can never truly feel the balance and anchoring of sharing our love completely and fully with others. The Venus retrograde provides the space to reinvent ourselves, the way in which we see ourselves and ultimately how we use this persona in our interactions with others. Shifting this focus of unconditional love, insight, understanding and compassion towards our own development causes a reinvention of who and what we value within our own being. As we refine these definitions of who we are we can learn to fall in love with that person we have become. We can see the beauty in that transformation and appreciate the refinement that has occurred from this balanced and cohesive method of self-introspection.

In the Name of Love!

Here’s another thought! The Sun moved into the astrological sign of Capricorn on the 21st and the Winter Solstice occurred on this date as well. Capricorn is another Earth astrological sign of the Zodiac. This is the Earth of Cardinal modality; the initial catalyst and flow that move towards stability. This is the first layer of soil that with time and weathering becomes the fertile mound. Venus rules the Earth sign of Taurus; a Fixed sign (re-read last week’s post about astrological Venus) that takes the initial outpouring of the Cardinal energy and gathers it to itself to provide structure and container for what has flowed into it. This is the warm mound of fertile soil that is the incubator that produces greenery.

So, using this information, consider the potential held with the added bolster of Sun in Earthy Capricorn as Venus, ruler of Fixed Earth Taurus stations retrograde (reaches backwards). The Sun offers the electromagnetic power of strength, renewal and life giving properties. The Sun is the electrical impulse that flows through the all of the foundations we have created. In this case, the foundations are of the Earth (Capricorn/Taurus) or manifest realm. Those things and people that we concretely wish to attract to our lives.

With Venus (or heart) stationing its outpouring towards what we have established as our foundation of compassion and interaction occurring as the Sun (life force) lights the way for the manifestation of stability and strength (Earth), there is great opportunity to shine in the brilliance of Venus’ light.

*A Personal Note:

This posting was late as the result of a personal emergency that occurred. On Thursday, I took my mother to the Emergency Room thinking that her escalated confusion and discomfort in walking was the result of a UTI. She did have an infection, but what we didn’t know was that she also had bleeds on both sides of her brain. A CAT scan revealed this additional news. The next 48-hrs. forced me to face the mortality of my mother, the relationship we had and the overwhelming feelings of guilt and remorse that go hand in hand with the thought of suddenly losing a parent. Emotions rose to overflowing and I thought I couldn’t stop crying. I thought about all the experiences, negative and positive I have had with my mother and each one brought me to a place of thinking long and hard about how I would change some of the future interactions. She has had brain surgery and is doing well, but we are still not out of the woods. Of interest is the fact that my natal Venus is in the astrological sign of Pisces and my Mother’s natal Sun sign is Pisces. I can’t help but think that this was an opportunity to look back and readjust some of the feelings I’ve held about my Mother and refine the way our relationship flows moving forward.

Resources:

1. Earth Sky Blog by Christopher Crokett

Next Week:
We’ll conclude our time in the Temple with information about Venus and Planetary Magick.

2 Comments »

Temple of Venus- The Precarious Balance of the Bull in the China Shop

Posted in Magick, The Temple of Venus, Uncategorized with tags Air, astrology, Cardinal Modality, celestial, cosmic, earth, esoteric writings, fixed modality, Libra, scales of balance, Taurus, Temple of Venus, winged bull on December 6, 2013 by themagickalpen

Move a bit closer
Can you hear the rhythmic
Beating of my heart?
Can you see the beauty
That surrounds and the
Grace of all who walk
In its victorious light?

Friday, December 6.2013

As we discovered in the first post Venus is “the planet of refinement, compassion and beauty expressed through the emotions and the grace of forming relationships. In summary, Venus sets up the process of opening and guiding in a more loving way whatever its energy is applied to.” To those able to draw upon this energy there is a certain finesse that underscores all of their actions and this reverberates out into the larger world drawing like a magnet others to them.

We discovered in the Temple of Mercury that the astrological wheel and natal chart of an individual are the ultimate Mercury experience. Information is held in each planet, astrological sign and house in which it is placed and the resultant aspects they form. The Venusian experience of the natal wheel is all about how you use that information and what is held in that blueprint as a higher expression of your feeling nature. Venus primes the natural tools you have and refines them with the intent of developing your emotional spiritual self. These are the wiles of a planetary energy that is renowned for its brilliant and charming visage.

Astronomically, Venus is one of the brightest luminaries in the sky (other than Sun and Moon) and can be seen at specific points of its rising and setting shining like a brilliant and dainty diamond. I like to think of Venus as being a planet of synthesis. Its thread of establishing relationship is felt by all of its planetary cohorts. If we think of the energy we know of Mercury and its proximity in orbital path, when the two are working in perfect accord, we are communicating from a place of heart felt emotion that has been informed by Higher Mind. Heart and head are working collaboratively and the result is nothing less than spectacular in its effects. And, in collaboration with manifest earth, Venus works her magick in fueling our desire for beauty of form.

Astrological Venus

To begin this exploration of the Temple let’s take a look at the energy of the planet Venus and its Astrological persona. Venus is the ruling planet of two astrological signs- Taurus and Libra. These Astrological signs are of the Fixed (Taurus) and Cardinal (Libra) Modalities. The work of Venus is the intent to create by working co-creatively through the relationships that are formed. Venus brings a quality of modulating and tempering what could potentially tip the scales in a state of imbalance and disequilibrium. And, always with a diplomatic flair that reveals both sides of the possibilities. This is the feminine energy that can easily change its mind, simply because there is more to be done to refine what has begun.

Within the energy of the astrological sign of Taurus we find a stable and synthesizing fixed energy and the Element of Earth. Its symbol is the Bull and contained within that symbol is the primary function of Taurean energy- strength. This is the Path of Nature and the sheer power of determination to fully manifest the predetermined goals. The animal instinct comes strongly to the foreground and intensity and immovable stance are what create the foundations that are anchored deeply in the physical realm and secured by a stalwart and imposing presence if that security is threatened.

Venus as the Ruling Planet of Taurus brings a sense of beauty, harmony and a gentle awakening of the emotional self. This is the beauty that tamed the restless beast and made all of his endeavors more manageable and softer. It is the heart that yearns for romance and connection as a way of creating security. 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 and the proverbial bull in the china shop does not seek to destroy, but rather comes to protect and admire.

In contrast, Venus also rules the astrological sign of Libra. Libra’s symbol is that of Scales of Balance. These scales are those that lead to a Path of Balance through the power of harmony and collaborative teamwork. All of the individual arts need not be equal in quality and effort but all will eventually come to a place of balancing each other’s weaknesses and strengths if the work is done in a syncretic way. This is the source of the great power that is wielded. Libra is an air sign and naturally relies on mental ability to bring about refinement. It is aware and knowledgeable enough to know just the right tactics of diplomacy to employ to achieve the desired results. This is the energy that we could liken to the first gentle and unassuming breeze that with the correct amount of power behind it develops into a windy and blustery day.

Venus as the Ruling Planet of Libra enhances the love of beauty and great sense of aesthetic style that typify Libra in bringing these ideals and thoughts into a beautiful form. The refinement of all things is pure Libran energy and is the anticipated result of the careful weighing and measuring of all the suitable options. The final choice lies in whichever option will have the most aesthetic impact and appeal. Love, passion and beauty are key words here.

Venus – The Foundational Expression of the Concept of Compassion, Love and Beauty

Element:	Earth/Air
House(s):	Two and Seven
Astrological Sign(s)of Rulership:	Taurus/Libra
Day of the Week:	Friday
Medical:	Venous blood, Larynx Throat

The basis of Venusian outpouring is found in its concept of what the ideal of compassion, love and beauty should be. The reality of what those words mean in physical experience is often just a veiling of what the deeper meaning and import of Venus’ energy is. True compassion is more about being able to place yourself empathetically in the place of those you show compassion to. True love has less to do with sexual preferences and compatibility and has its greatest reach in extending towards what and who you would not necessarily choose to be deserving of that love. And beauty is often found in the most unlikely of places and has the ability to transform what would be considered less than perfect in physical form into a rare and priceless treasure of ephemeral presence. Venus in its lesser form creates the template for the status quo and in its place of greatest gift raises that template to the heights of unimaginable potential that is the highest form of love.

The Astrological Houses

Venus is the ruling planet of the Second and Seventh Houses. Ruling two houses that are different (yet quite connected) in nature gives a multi-layered of meaning to the Venusian energies. We have the rock solid anchor of earthy fertility of form in the Second House and the airy flow of mind and balanced intellect expressed in the Seventh House.

HOUSE TWO Finances/Possessions

The place of anchoring, stability and manifest foundation

Ruling Sign:	Taurus
Ruling Planet:	Venus
Element	Earth
Modality	Fixed

The Second House is the place of acquisition of resources, material gain and all that contributes to a solid foundation made manifest. Its modality is Fixed and is neither static nor overly dynamic in its nature. It serves instead, to draw everything into a singular place of harmony and then reflect and distribute that energy back in a newly transformed way.

HOUSE SEVEN Relationships/Higher Learning

The product of collaborative effort. Paths of choice based on what has been learned from previous experience.

The Seventh House is one of Higher Learning, and application of those lessons that have been learned from prior and accumulated experience. This House is of the Cardinal Modality making the prime task one of starting things. These are the initial steps taken towards choosing a higher path of expression. The relationships that are forged are those that are carefully selected from the lessons of past experience and standing in a space of having more depth of information and inspiration to draw upon.

Ruling Sign:	Libra
Ruling Planet:	Venus
Element	Air
Modality	Cardinal

Venus, as the planetary ruler of these two houses infuses the strength of earthly experience with the necessary emotional connection to manifest those tools that will build solid foundations. It is the bridge that connects the physical experience of security that enables the mental and emotional gifts to meet on common ground.

The Archetypes

All Deities of love, beauty and relationships would fit into the scope of Venus’ qualities; the most well known of these being Venus, the Goddess of Love. In Greece she was known as Aphrodite and in Egypt she was Hathor. Regardless of the nomenclature, the energy is the same. Romance, love, sexuality, attraction and beauty as the final goals. The duality of her nature is shown in the mythos of her connection to the Bull (Taurus) and the need for balance of all things restoring a state of beauty.

“According to Babylonian myth, the creature was created on her orders to destroy the legendary hero Gilgamesh who had rejected her advances remarking that she all too quickly tired of her objects of desire. Gilgamesh defeated the Bull, but the victory of logic belonged to him, not Venus, who is never swayed by such concerns. The motto ‘all’s fair in love and war’ is created by her energies, aptly illustrating that self-interest is more than wrapping oneself up in luxuries or being surrounded by pleasant odours and tastes and sweet things. It is about feeling good inside, at the expense of others if necessary, of satisfying one’s cravings and desires in whatever form they take.” 1.

She is also associated with the Sea, the most famous of her depictions being the Painting by Sandro Boticelli entitled “The Birth of Venus”.

400px-Sandro_Botticelli_-_La_nascita_di_Venere_-_Google_Art_Project_-_edited

This is the chaste and virginal maiden that is the object of desire to claim as your own. Venus is the ideal of the perfect feminine form. She is the alluring and appealing softness that draws you in for closer inspection and challenges you to find flaw in her expression. Her nakedness expresses the vulnerability of physical form and the perfect love and perfect trust that are necessary to bare one’s soul and true emotional self in this manner. The connection and birthing from the sea make statement to power of desire fueled by the rhythm of ebb and flow of the tides that become the contraction and expansion of the womb in readying for bringing manifest life into being.

The Planetary Glyph

Each of the planetary glyphs is composed of a combination of three basic geometric shapes; the Circle, Crescent or Equal arm Cross. Once you have the basic understanding of these symbols you can draw your own conclusions about the glyphs of the other planets.

The Circle:

Eternity – Cycles – Connectivity

The Crescent:

Eternity Parceled – The Moon – Involution

The Equilateral Cross:

The Four Quarters – Point of Intersection – Cross Polarity

The Planetary glyph of Venus is composed of the circle and an equal arm cross. We could interpret it as the eternal cycle drawn down into the four quarters of the elemental world. This is the place of connectivity between the timeless world and the manifest realm.

Much like Venus herself the ideals of beauty, grace and refinement are held aloft as points to aspire towards as we hold the steady and precarious balance of aligning all the polarities and cross points of interactions and relationships we attract to ourselves.

We conclude our astrological journey with a pathworking to call forth the foundational and manifest energies of Venus expressed through Taurus. You will find some basic suggestions below for getting the most from using the pathworking.

Good– Read through the pathworking each time you want to use it. Make note of pausing in the reading wherever it feels like more time would be spent in the specific train of thought.

Better- Read through the pathworking several times and as you do so, try to set up key points that are stored in the memory. In this way, you can create your own scenarios using the structure of the original pathworking without having to read through the text each time.

Best- Employ the physicality of recording the pathworking in your own voice (which produces an effective recognizable neurological imprint inducing physiological response and imprint) to listen to.

When you are ready to make the recording be sure to select a space where you will not be interrupted and has minimal background noise.

Be sure to speak slowly (more so, if you tend to speak quickly and do not annunciate well) and clearly and to give pause where it would naturally occur if you were reading aloud. There may be some points in the pathworking where you will want to spend several minutes in the locale that is being presented. Remember to give adequate time of silence for this. Do not stop the recording, simply pause and restart it. Allow the amount of time you wish to have to fill the space on the recording and then resume the reading of the pathworking.

Regardless of what method you use, remain open and receptive to what presents to you beyond what has been scripted through the pathworking. Having a journal to record your impressions can serve as a valuable tool if you plan to use the pathworking again.

A Pathworking in the Temple of Taurus

The Comfort of Foundation

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. It glows a lush green in color and you are intrigued by what may lay through the archway.

As soon as you step into this room you notice the powerful glyph of Taurus. You also notice that it is a bit more difficult to move quickly in this space. It is as though you have become fixed or rooted in the spot on which you are standing and although you wish to move forward there is a bit of hesitancy as you stand your ground. The air has a heavy quality about it, and you surmise that this is more from inertia than density. It takes all your strength and energy to push through this density and you feel as though you are walking on a very windy day facing into the storm. Each step forward increases the feeling of agitation and frustration. Each step forward also makes you step with more grounded effort and with a weightiness of purpose and intent. You feel unyielding in your determination and with slow and steady progress you make your way towards the opposite end of the room. You see just ahead another archway, glowing with an orange hue. You stop for moment and now realize that in your efforts to make your way through this room, you did not take time to look at what may be contained within it.

As you relax into these thoughts, the atmosphere begins to lighten in density. There is a lessening of the pressure that surrounded you and you find you are able to move quite freely now. You look around and see that the room has been decorated with items that instill a sense of family, home and comfort. There are shades of soft earthy greens and reds throughout and the overall quality is one that invites you to linger and relax. The furniture is a bit oversized and to some, would be considered bulky, but you find it to be appropriate to the energy of the space. There is an understated opulence about the room and you have a sense that it has been decorated to stimulate all the senses in a very grounded way. You see a wooden desk against one of the walls and see that several piles of folders cover the top. You walk over to it, curious as to what these folders may be. You see that the labels on each refer to very mundane and concrete activities. Finances, home inventory, job search, investment funds and other similar categories hold papers and documents relevant to each. The wall above the desk is decorated with frames that contain pictures of family and children, a beach home and a boat readied for a fishing trip. You surmise that the occupant of this room is very attached to the material world and its offerings and takes great care and effort in organizing and managing to ensure all remains stable and solvent. You also have a sense that this attitude and care is not borne from greed, but more from a practical nature and one of wanting to provide the best and most secure world for those that are loved ones.

As you turn back towards the center of the room, you notice a large and inner lighted curio cabinet just opposite you. You walk towards it and see that there are a variety of small to medium sized glass figurines contained within. Each has been carefully bolstered by stand and/or case to keep the fragile contents from being upset and broken. You also take note that the cabinet itself has been braced clear through with a rod moving from the floor and clean up through the top of the ceiling to hold the cabinet securely and fixed to its spot. This extra effort at securing the contents, cabinet and all, gives rise to your imagining that it would survive just about any form of disruption or turbulence. It is so strongly and securely rooted to its spot, all would remain immovable within the beautifully reflective glass doors. And, those objects that are clearly treasured and perhaps very valuable, even if only from the perspective of the owner, have a loyal and protective caretaker.

As your eyes scan each of the delicately carved figures, you again feel a thickening and density of energy and atmosphere building in the room. You realize that in your musings you have remained inert. In this state of inertia, it is as though the longer you have remained still, the more rooted you have become to this space and the ground beneath you. You notice that the room smells of damp earth and tiny shoots of flower and grass line the edges of the walls. The strength and stability you felt contained with the furnishings has now given way to its manifest expression of fertility and growth. You realize that the care and protection you have seen given to those physical objects can also be harnessed to optimize growth with the natural world and within yourself. Cultivating stability of home, family and finances can be used to ensure the stability of the larger home and family that is earth and all humanity. Prosperity and accumulation of money and financial gain can be used to help the earth and natural world and its inhabitants prosper and draw from its the abundance. You stand firmly on the ground beneath you and take in the transformation of this space into that of the natural world clothed in all its strength, stability and beauty. Feelings of love and gratitude flood your being and at this very moment you feel the joy of moving collectively as one- a family enjoying all that the manifest world may offer and fully present in the moment.

As you deepen into these feelings, you close your eyes and breathe deeply drawing in the energy of this space. You take several more breaths and sense that the air about you is lightening and the aroma of earth is fading. You open your eyes and find that you are once again standing centrally in the circular room. You do not remember passing through the archway in which you entered, but realize that you have been standing in a space of fixed strength and great movement. Somehow you have a deep knowing that the return or flow of stability issues forth from this fixed anchor enabling you to move seamlessly and effortlessly in either direction simply by will. 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.

Pathworking Excerpted in part from: It’s Written in the Stars.R.Fennelly.2012

Recommended Reading:

Lyn Birkbeck. Divine Astrology-Enlisting the Aid of Planetary Powers
Linda Goodman: Star Signs
Linda Goodman: Sun Signs
Steven Forrest. The Inner Sky
Alan Oken. Soul Centered Astrology
Lindsey River and Sally Gillespie. The Knot of Time: Astrology and the Female Experience

Resource:

1. Encyclopedia Arcad.Harvard.

2 Comments »

Full Moon in Taurus- Stand by Me

Posted in Esbat, Lunar with tags astrology, cosmic, Esbat, esoteric writings, fixed modality, Lunar, Taurus on November 18, 2013 by themagickalpen

November 18.2013 @ 10:16am

Full Moon
Taurus

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.

Yesterday the Moon waxed full in the astrological sign of Taurus- the Bull. Taurus represents the material world in all of its strength, abundance and stability. It is a fixed earth sign and just like the animal to which it is ascribed, this is earth that is potent and immovable. The Moon shone brilliantly and clear and served as reminder of the fullness of what we consider ours to claim in the mundane world. It also called those emotions that are our foundational and rock-steady reserves to rally in supporting and bolstering the work that is at hand. I used the fullness of this moon to dedicate one of four crystal spheres that are to be aligned with the quarters for a special ritual. And, as the moonlight streamed down into the very core of the crystal orb I could see the foundation of earth spread before me enlivened and lit by the Moon Mother herself.

Blessings of strength!

Poem excerpted from:

The Inner Chamber, Volume One
It’s Written in the Stars. Astrology
R. Fennelly. 2012

2 Comments »

The Temple of Mercury-Is Anybody Out There?

Posted in Magick, Mercury, The Temple of Mercury with tags Air, astrology, celestial, cosmic, duality, earth, esoteric writings, Hermes, mutable, pathworking, planetary days, quicksilver, Temple of Mercury, Virgo on October 9, 2013 by themagickalpen

Wednesday, October 9.2013- Wk. Two

NOTE: Last week there was an error in attribution of Planetary Day. Mercury rules Wednesday, so posts will be on Wednesdays.

As we discovered last week, Mercury is “the planet of communication, inquiry and dissemination through all creative acts of connection and interaction. In summary, Mercury always wants to know “What’s up?”; and then spread the news received.” Not only does it want to get the information out there but also wants response to that dissemination and the knowledge that people actually “got” what was being conveyed.

The astrological wheel and natal chart of an individual are the ultimate Mercury experience. Information is held in each planet, astrological sign and house in which it is placed and the resultant aspects they form. The more you peel back the layers of this information, the depth you find within your own natal blueprint. This enables you to respond to your potential strengths and transform your weaknesses in a way that sets up the lines of communication and creativity within you. The possibilities are endless and makes us more curious about our world and those in it.

Astrological Mercury

So, in that spirit of curiosity, this week we’ll take a look at the energy of the planet Mercury and its Astrological persona. Mercury is the ruling planet of two astrological signs- Gemini and Virgo. These Astrological signs are of the Mutable Modality; meaning that they hold the energy of flexibility, expansion and thresholds of endings and new beginnings. Looking deeper, they are of the elements of Air (Gemini) and Earth (Virgo). And if we consider them together we have the basic Mercurian goal. That of taking those inspired thoughts, sending them out in all manner of airy flow and movement; having them stand the test of analysis and sorting so they may be brought down into a place manifest reality (Virgo) and ultimate creation. This is the primary directive of any type of communication- to have it brought to life in a concrete and useable way!

Mercury – The Exhale of Communication and the Vehicle of Expression

Element:	Air/Earth
House:	Three and Six
Astro Sign of Rulership:	Gemini/Virgo
Day of the Week:	Wednesday
Medical:	Nerves & Lungs

The Astrological Houses

Mercury is the ruling planet of the Third and Sixth Houses. The Third is the place of expression, personal and spiritual. The Sixth is that of service and creating/offering something useful to others. These are considered Cadent Houses and as such offer the potential for growth and expansion. You could liken this to the Mutable modality in that both are expressions of taking what has been gathered and drawing it to a final state of being before the cycle of expansion begins anew.

HOUSE THREE Self- Expression/Presentation- What you possess and how you express/define yourself by these acquisitions.

House Type	Cadent
Ruling Sign:	Gemini
Ruling Planet:	Mercury
Element	Air
Modality	Mutable

HOUSE SIX Service/Career- That which is your calling? Where you feel responsibility and act upon it. Harmonious collaboration. And, how freely and where you offer your gifts and talents to sustain connectivity.

House Type	Cadent
Ruling Sign:	Virgo
Ruling Planet:	Mercury
Element	Earth
Modality	Mutable

The Archetypes

All Deities of communication would fit into the scope of Mercury’s qualities; the most well known of these being Hermes, the Divine Messenger of the Gods. He is portrayed as protector and patron of travelers, shepherds, thieves, orators and wit, literature and poets, athletics and sports, invention and trade. In some myths he is a trickster; and, so quick is his tongue and mind that he could talk his way out of or into any situation he desired. It was also the duty of Hermes to act as psychomp, guiding the souls of the dead down to the underworld. He was closely connected with bringing dreams to mortals in answer to the queries they had. Hermes is usually depicted with a broad-brimmed hat or a winged cap, winged sandals and the heralds staff (Caduceus in Latin). It was often shown as a shaft with two white ribbons, although later these were represented by serpents intertwined in a figure of eight shape, coiling upward towards a dual winged tipped. The clothes he was shown wearing are usually that of a traveler, or of a workman or shepherd. Other symbols of Hermes are the cock, tortoise and purse or pouch. His Roman counterpart was named “Mercury”.

Caduceus

The connection to Medicine and the mercurial caduceus which is its universal symbol speak to the need for clear, concise communication in the healing arts. This communication may take the form of physiological neural pathways, energetic resonance or simply good bedside manner, which encourages the patient to be compliant in their treatment. At the energetic level, there has been much research done regarding the correlation of mind/thought and the ability for the body/manifest form to heal and maintain the health of itself.

The Planetary Glyph

The Planetary glyph of Mercury also offers layers of meaning. It is composed of three basic geometric shapes. Once you have the basic understanding of these symbols you can draw your own conclusions about the glyphs of the other planets.

The Circle:

Eternity – Cycles – Connectivity

The Crescent:

Eternity Parceled – The Moon – Involution

The Equilateral Cross:

The Four Quarters – Point of Intersection – Cross Polarity

So we could think of Mercury as drawing down into itself the wisdom of the higher and intuitive realms; moving it through the varied cycles of connectivity and producing the potential for manifest realms at the point of intersection of the inpouring of the four elements and the space of Malkuth or the manifest realm.

No journey would be complete through this exciting realm of Mercury if it did not include a pathworking to capture the essence and vibrancy of the Mercurian Mind. In keeping with Mercury’s informative nature read through the information prefacing the pathworking for suggestions about getting more from the experience.

Good– Read through the pathworking each time you want to use it. Make note of pausing in the reading wherever it feels like more time would be spent in the specific train of thought.

When you are ready to make the recording be sure to select a space where you will not be interrupted and has minimal background noise.

Quicksilver Speak

A Pathworking in the Temple 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 can visit again 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.

Pathworking Excerpted from: It’s Written in the Stars.R.Fennelly.2012

Recommended Reading:

Lyn Birkbeck. Divine Astrology-Enlisting the Aid of Planetary Powers
Linda Goodman: Star Signs
Linda Goodman: Sun Signs
Steven Forrest. The Inner Sky
Alan Oken. Soul Centered Astrology
Lindsey River and Sally Gillespie. The Knot of Time: Astrology and the Female Experience

New Moon in Libra

Posted in Esbat, Lunar, Magick, Moon Tide with tags Air, astrology, cardinal, celestial, cosmic, esoteric writings, Hecate, Libra, Lunar, new moon, poetry, Sage Woman Blog on October 4, 2013 by themagickalpen

New Moon in Libra
8:35 p.m. EDT
Sun in Libra

Thought some of you may be interested in a post I wrote for my Sage Woman Blog calling upon the energy of Hecate for this New Moon. You may also use the imagery of my experience to set up your own meditation in meeting her at the Crossroads. See the poem below and click on the link following to read the full post. Blessings of the Moon’s energy:

The Longing of the Maiden

I call to you at the
Newness of the Moon.

I wait at the crossroads
And, call out in longing
For you to ask of me what you will.

I stand clothed in the promise
Of guiding you as I light the way.

I wait and there is only the
Sound of my own longing to
Enliven and stir within you
The drive and will that sets
You upon your path.

I am cloaked in the darkness
But those who have the
Courage to call to me
See the truth of my hidden
Light that burns brightly
With the Divine spark of youth.

To read the full post*: Sage Woman Blog: The Womb of Light

* Note: This post will be available Saturday, Oct. 5

The Temple of Mercury- What’s up?

Posted in Esbat, Lunar, Magick, Mercury, The Temple of Mercury with tags astrology, celestial, cosmic, duality, Esbat, esoteric writings, Lunar, pathworking, planetary days on October 1, 2013 by themagickalpen

Silver tongued
I speak the truth
That polarity shuttles
From here to there.

I question everything
While holding firmly
To those answers
That only I can accept.

Some call me messenger
And hunger for what
News and teachings I bring.

They call to me to inform
And welcome my ability
To understand all sides
Of the complex equation.

Others think me far too talkative
And can’t keep pace With
my witty and informed banter
Those, I leave standing in the dust
Of my flexible and mercurial intellect.

But, to those who embrace
My skill and verbosity
I offer the gift of
Knowledge, thought and the
Agility of inquisitive mind.

Communication flows energetically
Through the halls of my twin
Towered Temple and each receives
Its honored place in what I share.

And all who pass through
Its silvery grey gates
Remain forever transformed
As the newly charged messengers
Of He who holds the Silver-Tongue.

Welcome to the Temple of Mercury. This month we will be exploring the energies of the planet Mercury and process the information through a variety of esoteric systems. This is the planet of communication, inquiry and dissemination through all creative acts of connection and interaction. In summary, Mercury always wants to know “What’s up?”; and then spread the news received.

Each week during the month we’ll look at this dynamic planet’s energy astrologically, the mythology of its Deity, its application in Lunar and Solar Magick, and through the lens of the Qabalah. And, Mercury will take center stage this month on October 21 when it goes Retrograde, remaining so until November 10th when it returns to its direct motion.

I will be posting on Wednesdays- the planetary day of Mercury. Reading recommendations, poetry and pathworkings will bring this Temple to life and your understanding of its energy will deepen your understanding of communication in all of its forms.

So, to begin, read through the poem at the beginning of this post again. Let the words create the images of your understanding. Breathe deeply into these images, open your mind and your heart and step into the Temple of Mercury.

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Full Moon in Pisces

Posted in Esbat, Lunar, Magick, Moon Tide, The Temple of the Moon, Uncategorized with tags astrology, earth, Esbat, esoteric writings, Full moon, Lunar, Magick, mutable, pathworking, Pisces, Virgo, Water on September 19, 2013 by themagickalpen

Full Moon in Pisces

Sun in Virgo

The Mutable Water of Pisces expressed within the Mutable Earth of Virgo

Today the moon is Full in the astrological sign of Pisces. Pisces offers the energy of compassion and intuitive sight and is considered the path of understanding. It is the last sign of the Zodiac and could be considered the Elder in the cycle. This sign stands at the place of endings and heralds in the bridge that will move towards the re-birthing of Aries- the youngest of the zodiac signs. Drawing on what has preceded from the other signs, each in turn and finally brought to conclusion, Pisces is driven by emotional response. Although, there is not always the appropriate discernment applied to determine what is real and what is illusion. Just as the older person looks to past experience to draw their conclusions in the present, Pisces gathers everything to itself, but is not always well equipped to sort through with the same emotional dexterity that youth would bring.

The ruling planet of Pisces is Neptune (with a co-ruler of Jupiter). This presents as emotional release that is expansive and can become all pervasive, drowning the holder of this energy in their own emotional outpour. If allowed to flow in this way, these energies are non-productive and compassion becomes martyrdom. This overflow is the by-product of its co-ruler Jupiter, whose primary function is expansion without consideration of the container within which it exerts its potency. The modality and element of Pisces is Mutable Water. This is the place of flexibility of emotions and insight with the caution given to be mindful that the flexible nature does not over stress the container. Therefore, the need to create stronger and less permeable boundaries is of high priority. In this way the waters may be guided towards the appropriate space of opening to which they will become the new source feeding into the greater river of humanity as healer and source of compassionate sanctuary.

The support of this Full Moon’s energies is found in the Solar Month of Virgo. The astrological sign of Virgo is Mutable Earth. This provides a flexible, yet fertile foundation upon which to sort through the details of what will newly be started. This is the opportunity for analytical and precise organization and inventory of those emotions and insights of the Pisces Moon that serve and those that drain and water-log progress. Taking time to see our flaws and weaknesses in the strength of the sun allows us to heal and grow through transformation. Healing is the work of Pisces and aligning with your intuitive self opens those flood gates so that what is contained behind their restrictive bars may flow freely; hidden and locked away no longer.

Making use of the attributes of the Moon and the Sun and their respective astrological signs the opportunity is one of Water (Pisces Moon) of Earth (Virgo Sun). These are the waters that are needed and thirstily drawn in for fertile and productive growth on the land. These are the waters that smooth and polish the ragged rocks of our daily experience that provide resistance to the natural river’s flow. These are the waters that provide safe haven and hold the mysteries of the depths that make up the vast amount of the earth’s surface; teeming with an even greater diversity of life. These are the waters that ebb and flow at the moon’s call, responsive and reactive to the universal energy and ever flowing in the cycle that comes to its peak of potential at each of the full moons.

Suggestions for Meditative Focus or Esbat Working:

These themes may be used in mediation tonight or woven into a working for your Esbat ritual.

A Clear Flowing Stream

Spend some time thinking about where you have recently felt drained emotionally. Breathe deeply into this area of feeling. As you exhale, allow these feelings to move as though flowing gently in a stream of water. Look upon the waters as they flow and see them as clear running waters flowing out and away from you.

A Pathworking of Healing

The Healing Temple

Sitting in a space where you will not be disturbed, take a moment to make conscious note of your surroundings and the physicality of your being in this space. Gently close your eyes and turn your awareness to the pattern of your breath. Allow your breathing to lengthen and relax into a calm and steady rhythm.

Shift your attention to the space between your brows and the inner screen of your meditative conscious mind. Sit as observer of this screen, taking note of the form of this inner landscape. Now see yourself standing and walking towards this inner screen. A pin- point of violet light forms just ahead of you and begins expanding in diameter as you walk towards it. When you arrive at the place of being immediately in front of this violet veil, it has expanded, stretched and opened to become an arched gateway. The faint glimmer of starlight flickers within its opening and you feel called to step into this place.

You step through this archway and find yourself in the center of a circular room. The walls are a shade of light sky blue and the floor is emerald green marble. You look upwards and see that the room appears to open and the vast panoramic view of stars twinkling offers view overhead. The room smells of Frankincense and is quiet and serene in ambiance. As you look around at the walls enclosing this space you take note of the sensation that the blues are variant in color and the impression is almost one of being encased within a glass structure and submerged in the depths of a clear beautiful ocean.

The floor sparkles like the facets of a freshly polished emerald and light and shadow co-mingle; entwined like lovers moving in the ecstasy of union. Take a moment to breathe deeply and take in the calming energy of this space. As you exhale you see that a chair is placed centrally in the room. It is ornately carved and made of fragrant wood. You approach and sit down, feeling the resiliency and gentle support of this chair. You sit for a moment and allow your body to rest in its supple support.

As you breathe slowly and deliberately you begin to form the intent for this healing work. Draw up in your mind’s eye the vision of yourself, whole and functioning in a thriving and healthy manner. Now, speak softy the intent of this healing. Speak the words that form this intention of what needs healing and what needs release so that process may begin. As you begin to speak you see that the space of floor around you glows in vibrancy. Each word enlivens and informs this space of living energy. You continue to speak the words of release of what needs healing and they drop away from you, falling into this living mass of vibrant healing green energy. You pause now to allow the intent to fill the space surrounding you. The energy of green veil rising upward and encircling you as it draws from the space the words of release you have spoken. Sit in the energy of this healing release; quietly and simply observing each and every word as it is absorbed by this healing green energy.

The green veiling subsides and withdraws back to the floor beneath. You feel energized and have clearer intent about what you now wish to call into your being and this space as whole, enlivened and healthy energy. As you think on what these words shall be, you notice that the energy of the blue walls moves gently inwards towards you. You begin to speak the words of power and healing that affirm your renewed and whole state of being. Each word is held for a moment in a soft veil of blue soothing energy and then is enlivened and transformed into a sparkling bead of blue light. You continue with the affirmations and take note that the blue beads are increasing in amount and the vibrancy of their glow is palpable in feeling and intent. Speak all that you need, amassing as much of this transformed energy as you feel is needed. The air surrounding you is electrified with the energy of these intentions you have formed and you feel energized and enlivened. When you have spoken all that is needed, take a moment to sit and observe the beauty and power of this veil of pulsing blue light encircling you. Make note of how alive and responsive each of these intentions is. Affirm the potency of their nature and the power held within the core of their being.

As you sit observing you see that the vibrancy of the blue is pulsing more quickly now and with light that is increasing in brilliance and intensity. Each breath you take seems to offer more vibrancy to the growing light held within each. This is the brilliance of healing white light holding the intent of mind, heart and will. You close your eyes in response, as the intensity and brilliance of light continues to expand filling the Temple. You breathe in and with intent and focus draw this energy into you. Each inhalation draws more of this vibrant light of brilliant healing into the core of your being and each exhalation moves it into the areas of your body that need healing and renewal. Each breath fills you with this vibrancy and each breath encourages healing and strength. Continue in this way until you feel complete, strong and revitalized.

You open your eyes and see that the room has cleared of the brilliance of this light and looking upward you take note that the stars appear to be twinkling more brightly. You feel completely at one with all that surrounds you and offer up gratitude for the healing and renewal that has occurred. Remain quietly held in this space of gratitude and renewal for as long as is needed.

When you are ready, you stand and feel a surge of strength coursing through you and a deeper sense of your own power to affect change within your self. You look around once again and the walls are now a more vibrant blue and the floor shimmers like millions of small green emeralds, each separate yet more powerful and vibrant in their combined efforts. Take a deep breath in and feel the energy of this place. Declare it as your own space of healing and renewal and affirm that you will visit this space whenever you have need for healing and enlivening.

You see the archway through which you entered just ahead of you and begin to walk towards the entryway. Each step is now stronger in its placement and more purposeful in its intended destination. You arrive at the entry way and see that the violet veil of energy is sparkling more brightly and you feel its density and plasticity of form as you step through it. You emerge and find yourself once again sitting as observer of this inner screen. You breathe into the energy of your experience and with each inhalation and gently exhale you become more fully aware of your breath; the rise and fall of your chest and the physicality of your body sitting in the space in which you began. Gently flutter your eyes open and take a few more, very deep breaths offering the intention of gratitude, health and a renewed state of being.

So Mote It Be!

Resources:

The Magickal Pen Blog

The Healing Temple Pathworking

Books by R. Fennelly:
Info at http://www.robinfennelly.com

The Inner Chamber: Volume One
It’s Written in the Stars

The Elemental Year
Aligning the Elements of Self

Temple of the Cosmic Spheres

Archive for astrology

The Speed of Light!

New Moon-New Year 2014!

The Temple of Venus – Last Call for Love!

The Temple of Venus-Stop! In the Name of Love!

Temple of Venus- The Precarious Balance of the Bull in the China Shop

Full Moon in Taurus- Stand by Me

The Temple of Mercury-Is Anybody Out There?

New Moon in Libra

The Temple of Mercury- What’s up?

Full Moon in Pisces

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