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Destiny Calling, Again! The Blue Moon of July

Posted in Astrology, Auspicious Days, Full Moon, Neptune, Pluto, Retrogrades, Saturn, The Temple of Pluto, The Temple of Venus, Uranus with tags #templeofcosmicspheres, aquarius, astrology, Blue MOon, cancer, earth, Full moon, Retrograde Planets on July 30, 2015 by themagickalpen

Full Moon in Aquarius (Blue Moon)
July 31.2015
6:43am (EDT)

Sun in Leo

The Blue Moon of July waxes full tomorrow morning at 6:43a.m. This is the second full moon to occur this month. The first punctuating the first day of July and this one underscoring the last. And, these two full moons were held in Father Sun’s mantles of polarity calling forth the power of Nurture (Sun in Cancer) and Nature (Sun in Leo).

The Full Moon of July 1 set the stage for healing at both the emotional and the levels of will. The foundations and earthiness of Capricorn provided the structure for those lunar waters to flow strongly and productively. Father Sun gently warmed those Cancerian waters to bolster, strengthen and nurture what lay within and provide just enough electromagnetic stream to attract what would serve.

Curtain up and lights full blaze as this Full Moon steps into the spotlight calling to itself what it requires-what it demands and what it will claim as its own to ensure success. Father Sun now wearing the brilliance of Leo’s power sets the waters of an Aquarian Full Moon ablaze as the emotional landscape opens itself to uncharted streams and rivers that lead out to a sea of new vision. The will to survive and to create is fueled by the desire to know and the instinctual actions taken to sustain.

This Full Moon offers a date with destiny as solar will attracts to itself the tools and emotional adjustments required to allow the revelation and truth of your power at all levels of your being. We, as a collective whole have been changing and evolving just as surely as the planets and stars have been moving into dialogue and positioning themselves just so in their orbital paths. Individually, the increased dynamics of cosmic energy we have experienced, this year alone, has affected even the most stable and grounded of persons; taking them outside of their comfort zones.

As we embrace the fullness of this moon’s dynamic, remember to reach back into the space of nurturing and honoring oneself that has been established. Then, allow yourself to be open to the experience of seeing beyond the horizon of what you believed yourself to be capable of achieving.

The Fantastic Four (FIVE)

There have been some very interesting events over the past few months that have stirred the underpinnings of life as we know it. Potent Solar flare activity electrified our planet’s energy fields at multiple levels and those sensitive to the solar fires felt the amplification up of neurological function.

And, with the retrograde of Venus last week on the 25th and Uranus the next day, we currently have five planets in “pause”. Saturn will station direct on August 1st., but the Lord of Time’s impact has been felt as boundaries of linear time and the resultant shattering of an outdated structure have re-assembled and reconfigured to maximize our greatest potential for growth.
Read more …..Saturn Retrograde- Time to Clean House

As Saturn loosens its point of focus, four planets will remain in retrograde:

Venus in Capricorn- July 25 through September 6
Venus Retrograde- Stop in the Name of Love!

Pluto in Capricorn April 16 through Sept. 25
Pluto Retrograde- You’ve Been Served!

Neptune in Pisces June 12 through November 18
Neptune Retrograde- Lifting the Veil

Uranus in Aries July 26 through December 25
Uranus Retrograde- Deflecting Light

As we move through the next several months the place of emphasis and potential for reshaping these areas will relate strongly to what we have crafted as our foundations of past effort and the relationships cultivated in our current world of manifestation (Pluto and Venus in Capricorn), boundaries of compassionate and healing flow (Neptune in its natural ruler of Pisces) and stimulating enough disruption to the status quo to create the fires of will that are undaunted by challenge (Uranus in Aries).

Being mindful that these dynamics are at play and spurring us on towards healing our past and accepting accountability for our future will add the component of intention to each challenge we face. Intention that knows when to surrender to our Higher Will and nurture all that is the best and the worst in us. And, intention that realizes the need to act and follow our natural and instinctual drives that make us uniquely human and connected to all of life on this planet.

Time to Simply Be…

In the fullness of this Moon of Aquarius. I will simply “Be”
I will not script out a ritual or working. I will simply “Be”
I will allow the energy of the day to move through me. I will simply “Be”
I will sit in the evening’s light looking up to the fullness of my Lady. I will simply “Be”

And, in this space of quiet, surrender and communion
I will simply “Become”

Join me in the Temple of Uranus
Beginning August 2015

Hear Me Roar- The Sun in Leo

Posted in Solar, The Temple of the Sun with tags cancer, Cardinal Modality, celestial, fire, fixed modality, Leo, Neptune, Pluto, RA, Retrograde, solar deity, Temple of the Sun, Uranus on July 22, 2014 by themagickalpen

Sun in Leo
7.22/2014
5:41 pm (EDT)

Planetary Ruler: Sun

The King

I am Leo
I am the King of the starry
Heavens and beware
The flick of my tail in
Exasperation or the
Ferocity of my roar.

They are but warnings to
Keep your distance
From those people and
Things I nurture and protect.

I stand in rapture as
The flame of sun’s rays
Ignites my varied passions.

Resolute will and determination
Guide my unyielding course
As I move with power
And courage to claim
My place of leadership.

The Sun transits into the astrological sign of Leo, at dusk tonight (EDT). Wherever you are in the world you have felt the Sun’s light at some point in your day and known the beauty of being lit by its powerful rays for all to see. Even if the day has been cloudy and grey you know the Sun has not retreated and is simply hidden in cloud cover. The light always remains. The heat always burns full and strong and the life giving energy it imparts, flows in its dance of nocturnal hiding and diurnal brilliance.

The astrological sign of Leo is one of the element of Fire and the Fixed Modality. Its planetary ruler is the Sun, whose qualities of brilliant light, heat and strengthening are overt in our mundane lives as the daily cycle of sunrise to sunset sets the course of our day. The Sun is the Great Father and together with Mother Moon are the luminaries of sky and spiritual being.

This solar month offers an opportunity to bask in the full glory of your achievements and stand in the light of full disclosure as the Sun breaks through and into those shadowy corners of comfortable hiding. There is maximum potential for using this month’s solar energy to bolster your self-awareness and confidence and to promote a different type of healing that is cauterizing in its effects after having transited through the healing and temperate waters of Cancer’s solar arc. This healing is what is most needed to begin building the foundations of confidence and vibrancy.

The astrological sign of Leo brings the spotlight to whatever its touches. This is the Lion who roars claiming his domain and fiercely protects her young. Couple this with the Sun being the ruling planet of Leo and you are center stage with adoring fans ready to receive You and your gifts. The Fixed quality of Leo’s sign helps to organize all of this glitz and glam so that what is presented is nothing less than fiery in nature.

Additionally, this Solar month is another opportunity for alignment of the polarities of Sun (ruling the sign of Leo) and the Moon when she waxes New in the same sign as Her lover, Leo Sun. This alignment occurs at the level of the mundane as well as the spiritual. When we feel confident and strong in our energy and impact (Leo) we go on to display these same qualities to all we meet, shining brightly and magnetically attracting more of the same (Solar). The potential for being the catalyst that stimulates change in others is high and with focused intent the success rate is assured.

The caution is one of fueling your light so abundantly with grandiose claims and boasts that ego steps in and the natural born leader becomes the tyrannical ruler who sees nothing but his/her own reflection in the glowing orb of the Sun. The Sun has its strength in a refined and intention filled will. Leo bodes well with a Will that has been cultivated to see from a central position that also takes into consideration what lay at the outskirts of that circle that is holding the space of central hub.

All of the Fire signs fully embrace the space of action and claiming the gifts of that action. Leo not only embraces, but wants to announce and show the results of those successes. It is in this way that that Leo becomes self-aware. If this self- awareness is achieved through efforts that are pure of intent and positively focused, whatever fame or status that is achieved by the individual can then be used to make others aware of the greater needs of humanity. This quality is exemplified by those celebrities who use the attention and persuasiveness of their fame to bring attention to the atrocities and mistreatment of those who cannot fend for themselves or lack the means and education to rise above their negative conditions. In their most altruistic form of brilliance, these are those that create charitable foundations or make personal donations to those that champion the rights of others. This is the sacrificial nature of Leo’s energy and the maintaining of synthesis and balance in its universal outlook (more about this in Qabalah post).

The Element of Fire

The Fire signs are those of action, determination and catalytic energy. Their nature is that of inspiration and igniting any situation with enthusiasm and creative solution. The sun shines ever so brightly on all who come under the energy of the Fire signs and non-is more brilliantly lit than that of Leo, the Lion and heart of the Sun.

The Fire signs express themselves through active will and transformation. These are the signs that can most readily “burn themselves out” or those around them. Similar to physical fire, if that enthusiasm and drive is not carefully tended and guided it will destroy everything in its path in a non-productive volatile nature. Expressed through the sign of astrological Leo, Fire is most at home when turned towards public recognition and expression. Those born under the Sun sign of Leo are generally extroverted and like the attention received from others. This is not necessarily a negative attribute (as most tend to deem it), since we all crave to be recognized for our strengths; but for the Leo they feed and fuel themselves from the input. And, if well directed constructive criticism becomes the vehicle for great transformation and praise becomes the step-ladder towards achieving even greater accomplishments that benefit all who come under the warmth of their shining light.

A Fixed Modality

As we have seen, the energy of the Fixed signs is one of gathering magnetically, sorting through exciting and agitating, refining through synthesis and then disseminating the purified product of what has been taken in. The Fixed nature is one that becomes the container of both receipt and release and as mid-point between the catalytic flow of the Cardinal signs and expansive reach of the Mutable signs, it is the space of pause where positive and negative meet in neutrality.

Leo is the second of the Fixed signs, the first being Taurus. Appropriately the dynamics of the Fixed signs would begin with manifest form and earthly boundaries (Taurus) that may then serve as container for the Fires (Leo) that reshape those forms. Taurus gave form to that initial striking of the match (and beginning of the Zodiacal and Solar Year) that Cardinal Aries offered. Now, having arrived at the Fifth (the number five relates to change) astrological sign of Leo, creation can only occur by shining the spotlight intently upon what will feed and quicken it.

Read more about the Esoteric Meaning of the Numbers here:

Numerology: The Art and Science of Numbers

0-9: The Esoteric Meaning of Numbers

The Fixed energy expressed through a Fire sign initiates the will in a way that is similar to the pot coming to a boil. Its action is purposeful and as the heat increases the temperature reaches higher degrees. This fire is contained within the vessel that holds it and must adapt and conform to the constraints. Having this structure allows the distribution of the heat and the culmination of something with the ability to change (or cook) whatever is placed within it.

Hold steady
Stand strong
Be the container.

Hold fast the
Energy that pours
Forth relentlessly.

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

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

The Next Step

Maintaining the idea of the evolving dynamics of each of the Zodiacal signs as we move through the solar year, so too, the Triad of Modalities gains more momentum, maturity and focus of application as we move through each of these rounds. If we look at the dynamics of energy thus far, beginning with the Cardinal sign of Aries, we could think of the three signs that begin the astrological wheel as the quickening fires (Aries- Fire) within the body of manifestation (Taurus- Earth) that gives rise to aspiring towards the heavens (Gemini- Air). Beginning the next iteration of a new cycle of the Triad of Modalities in the sign of Cancer aligns the mind of Gemini with the heart of Cancer. And, emerging from these healing and Divinely informed waters rises the blaze of light that heralds the realization of the Divine Light of Self.

Leo as the second round of the Fixed signs provides the fuel that is concentrated energy that has received the benefits of what has preceded. This is the Fire that is magnetic and whose current is strong and direct in its ability to energize. These are the first stirrings of passionate and lustful desire. This is the Fire that prods you toward a goal that has completely and utterly claimed you as its own. This is the energy that keeps you moving when there is nothing left of your energetic reserves. And, this is the Fire that burns away all doubt leaving you raw from its heat but nearer to newly transformed and vibrant confidence.

The Sun is the Ruling Planet of Leo and center of our Heliocentric world. Power, light, heat and sustaining of life are all held within the energy of the Sun. Just, as the Sun is the center of our Universe, the energy of Leo is one that enjoys being the center of all activities. The Sun is electromagnetic in its form and once in its field draws everything into its fiery center. This is Leonine energy that is potent and strong as it too has an innate quality that attracts attention whether it is driven by curiosity or fueled by notoriety.

Re- Read what has been posted thus far about the energy of the
Solar Year and the Sun in His many faces.

Preparing the Way

At this time of the year in the Northern hemisphere, we are preparing for the First Harvest of Lammas. This is the space of the year where we plan those last summer vacations before the business of school and dedicated work time replaces summer’s freedom. We settled into the interaction with friends and family last month and now the last dog days of Summer can be filled with the focus on what we hope to extend of this connection before Fall’s waning light takes hold. The vibrancy of the Sun and the supportive energy of Leo bolster this last hurrah with the promise that Father Sun’s heat may still maintain its potency as August sets in.

In the Southern Hemisphere the emphasis is on the increasing light of the Waxing year and the promise of balmy summer days just ahead. As the Solar Year transits into the boldness of Leo what was soothed from Winter’s chill last Solar month in the sanctuary of home and family is now ready to come out and play in the fullness of Father Sun’s light. Imbolc is close at hand and the light warms and offers strengthening as the world awakens from its slumber and new life is birthed.

Both are states of awakening and quickening. Just as the energy of Mother Moon and her sign of Cancer offered the cycle of ebb and flow within the birthing waters, now this cycle is energized and replicated by Father Sun in his daily offering of light, warmth and the promise of rest at the end of the day.

The lessons of relationship gained by igniting those flames of Creative Fire as we prepare to reap the harvest of what we have grown (Lammas) or the turning of our Light towards the growth and healing of the world surrounding (Imbolc) are designed to transform and change everything we imagined to be true. Hope has now become reality. The goal is one of transformation as we prepare for the Mutable (expansive) energy of Virgo and the reassessment and analysis of the work we brought into the light.

Read more about Lammas and Imbolc and their dynamics of Light:

WitchVox: Sabbat Articles and Poems

Fiery Waters

Uranus Retrograde in the astrological FIRE sign of Aries
Neptune Retrograde in the astrological WATER sign of Pisces
Pluto Retrograde in the astrological EARTH sign of Capricorn

As we transit into the Solar month of Cancer, the planets Neptune and Pluto remain retrograde with yesterday’s addition of electrical Uranus.

The emphasis this Solar month is on the Uranus Retrograde and its fiery connection to Leo. Leo is the second of the Fire signs and in thinking chronologically, the enthusiastic and contagious energy of action and first experiences that played out in Cardinal Aries has now matured into the full burning passion of youth. We now have the potential for a steady stream of application of transformative energy that will carve out its own inroads as it moves of its own accord and creates his/her own life experiences.

Neptune is the ruler of the third of the Watery astrological signs, Pisces. Pisces is the elder, who has memories of lovers and loves past, knows the expanse of their emotions and freely gives those healing waters to all in need. It is the guide that if sought out will help you realize the distinction between giving selflessly and flooding all that would be viable. Neptune provides the direction for that flow and anchors deeply in the current of experience that will ultimately act as the filter of refining how far and how wide that expanse of change will be.

And, Pluto in the astrological sign of Capricorn provides the boundary of container that builds in its strength and detachment a strong, yet flexible shoreline to contain this fiery path. Pluto as the furthest planet in distance from the Sun provides the subjective coolness that comes with the cumulative memory of past experiences with one foot at the threshold of future potentials. These are the Triad of growth and change. The Fire of Will flowing through the Waters of Emotion held within the manifest (and physical) form of Earth that re-members.

Read more about the Neptune and Uranus Retrogrades:

Lifting the Veil- Neptune Retrograde
Deflecting Light- Uranus Retrograde

Hear Me Roar:

This solar month is one of putting yourself out there and seeing what and who you attract in support of who you will become.

In the chronology of the Zodiac, this is the space of time to explore who we are, what motivates and impassions our physical and spiritual nature. This is also the time to willingly surrender yourself to the burning away of what is false pride and success that was achieved at the expense of another. This is the changeable energy of the young adult who postures, struts and commands attention. This is the space of making bold declaration of your opinion, wants and needs, although not yet tempered by the balance of mature experience. This is the time of the proverbial “blazing new trails” and life is waiting with bated breath for You to “arrive” and make the grand entrance that signals authority over all they command. This is the space of enthusiasm that has matured to become passion and from this passion the lessons are learned of both the positive and negative attributes of one who claims his/her mantle of Kingship.

And, so in the spirit of Leo’s bold intent and style we call forth the energy of the Sun as it continues its zodiacal cycle and once again we repeat the invocation that opened the Gate to this Temple. As you read through it allow the natural resonance of these words of invocation that are twice blessed in this Solar month to fill you with the ecstatic fires of the Sun’s Light and gifts. Think back to the glory of your youth and the young adult who feels invincible. Think back to the fires of sex as they rose in hunger and desire for your lover, at times insatiable in their intensity and fierce in their orgasmic release. Think back to your first act of creation in beginning your own life’s path, free of parents, restrictions and responsibilities other than to self. Think back to staying out all night and still having enough energy to get through the next day’s activities barely missing a beat in the hunt for the next conquest to feed your striving towards victory.

What keys to the greater knowledge of RA’s power of sustained light is hidden within the passions of action and will? This is the gift of finding yourself and having knowledge of what burns brightly at the very core of who you are. Treat this gift as the rarest of jewels as we invoke the Solar Month of Leo. This is the Solar Month that sings the praises of RA and all of the Solar Deities, so stand proudly as a child of the Sun and bellow out the roar of command that call’s the Solar Fires to awaken every cell of your being and fill it with eternal Light.

Hymn to RA

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Next Posting: Saturday, July 26th.
Standing in the Spotlight – New Moon in Leo

The Magick of Cancer

Posted in Full Moon, Lunar, Magick, The Temple of the Sun with tags cancer, cardinal, celestial, cosmic, Esbat, esoteric writings, Full moon, Magick, new moon, Temple of the Sun, Waning Dark Moon, Water on July 13, 2014 by themagickalpen

The Magick of Cancer is based in the realms of the emotional and creation of an outcome that is heart-centered and intuitively based. Whatever we apply Cancerian energy towards is going to receive the advantage of being able to “feel” our way through the process and engender the support that is needed to bring success. Its strength lay in being able to flow through each step as though the guidance offered is coming from a trusted and loving support system. The negative aspect to this is one of inertia and feeling overly comfortable with the assumption that all will offer the same unconditional support.

Remaining in this pattern means that the first challenge or rejection encountered can have devastating results and in some ways override the positives and generating an energy that deeps into the waters of feeling unlovable. Despite this any workings that require the flow of healing, loving guidance and emotional support are well suited to Cancer’s application.

Cancer works directly on those feelings that make us feel safe, loved and fully supported unconditionally, so workings that require a gentle touch and encouraging momentum are best served by using Cancer’s energy during the Waxing Lunar phase or continually as bolstering to the Solar Month. Conversely, using Cancer’s magick during a Waning phase (Lunar or Solar Month) can serve to refresh waters that have become stagnant and complacent. This energy becomes the filter that clears away the debris that builds up from not tending those homey waters and knowing when to let go.

There’s No Place Like Home

It may feel as though I have spent an inordinate amount of writing on the “home” aspect of Cancer. Cancer completes the first quad of the Elements in progression around the zodiacal wheel. This is the first of the Water astrological signs and in the order of things our emotions learn their responses and power first in the place we call home and the family we have surrounding us. Regardless of what that physical state of upbringing may have impressed upon us, when we reach out to the energy of Cancer, we have the opportunity to claim a new state of home and foster our own growth within what we create as our place of foundation and support. Remember that unconditional love begins with applying that gift to ourselves, first and thus enabling us to become the sanctuary of home and heart that may be exactly what another is in need of.

The Healing Waters

Image: Elena Ray

In keeping with these thoughts, Cancer can be used effectively in the magick of healing. Workings that are focused upon overall health and well-being or specifically on the healing of mind or emotions are well suited to Cancer’s energy. The added bolster of its ruling planet being The Moon opens the space of intuitive guidance as we center upon what we wish to apply this energy towards. We are continually surrounded by opportunities to bring healing to the environment, our relationships and ourselves. Learning to identify these moments and then following through with the necessary change requires a large amount of courage. Being fully present and emotionally engaged with whatever we are focusing on often draws up to the surface those areas that need a closer look. In many ways this is the work of a regular Meditative/Contemplative practice. Being able to still our minds long enough for our heart to open and be receptive to what the Divine has by way of guidance.

Read More About these Waters at:

Finding My Compassionate Self in the Waters of Creation

Solar Month Magick

Enhances exploration of how you feel and what forms of expression this process of opening to the deeper wells of our emotions will ultimately make use of:

Cancer as the Fourth sign of the Solar Year concerns itself with emotional foundations that are strong and provide the support needed for maximum growth. The Solar Month of Cancer is an excellent time to begin the process of finding comfort in your own skin and loving both the positive and negative aspects of yourself. Those things that you feel are supportive of making you the best you that is possible deserve the extra attention and care of nurturing. Those aspects that you may consider negative (or shadow) still need the touch of an embrace that accepts them for what they are and then is secure enough to either bid them to release their hold or to work collaboratively in refining who you wish to become.

The energy of this Solar month of Cancer next flows into the Fires of Leo and the call to be fully present, front and center as you stand resplendent in all of your glory and power. To be this exposed and vulnerable requires that you are confident in “who” you are and are able to emotionally handle a deeper level of scrutiny.

The Cancerian approach can be used for short-term projects, but is most effective for long-term workings. A goal, such as working to create a love of self or taking action to commit to better self-care and gentle nurturing benefits from beginning its cycle while the Sun is in Cancer.

Similar to the New, Full and Waning cycles of the Lunar Month, beginning the working in the Solar Month of Cancer would be the first phase of identifying and acknowledging those aspects of self that need greater care and love. This may take the form of beginning a journal of gratitude and writing those things each day for which you are grateful about who you are. As you move through the Solar month you will begin to see how much within you deserves your love and attention, as well as having confirmation of those qualities others see in you that endear you to them.

Using the cycle of Water and those astrological signs of that element the next point of bolstering the energy would be during Scorpio. The Solar Month of Scorpio stands as the Full phase of the emotional (Water) energy, and signals readiness to bring from the depths of the subconscious what will either serve to purify or muddy the flow. Scorpio is a sign of the Fixed Modality and as such its directive is that of stabilizing and coalescing what has been drawn into its stores in preparation for what will be released as the expansive principle. Here, there is opportunity to refine what we claim as our emotional self so it does not forever remain as the stinging tail that catches us off-guard.

The adaptable energy of Pisces (the last of the Water signs) would serve as the point of taking what we have learned of our compassionate nature and extending beyond our own needs to be inclusive of those of others. The Piscean goal is one of service and if everything is in order regarding having addressed the needs of ourself in the previous steps, than heart becomes the fuel that feeds and inspires the heart/mind connection in al who receive its expansive (and contagious) energy.

Lunar Magick: The Intelligence of the Heart

Engages the intelligence of the heart expressed through the waters of the subconscious as the wisdom of loving compassion opens to deeper understanding:

Use of Lunar energy in the astrological sign of Cancer provides the energetic principle of the need for heart-felt intent as the desire that urges on the creation of what will serve to heal, guide and intuitively inspire. Cancer provides the opportunity for deepening the reserves of what we may draw upon to nourish our soul’s purpose. The true nature of Cancer is one that provides safe haven for exploration of heart and understanding. Aligning the Moon’s healing and intuitive force with the vulnerability of Cancer draws up from the subconscious those places of “knowingness” that are Divinely felt and although the process may be a difficult one, this vulnerability makes stronger whatever is held in its birthing waters.

Workings that desire the goal of healing feelings of self-doubt and issues of self-worth benefit from this deep well of resource. Work in establishing the appropriate filters, regarding our emotional responses and workings to strengthen our emotional presence in our relationships is well suited to Cancer lunations.

The New Moon of Cancer could be used to begin the process of establishing appropriate emotional boundaries that will better serve us in our relations. You would spend some time deciding upon which area of your life (work, home, community, etc.) you would like this support to be given. Sit down and allow yourself to open to a specific relationship that would best be served by having more defined boundaries. And, once settled upon, begin the process of settling on a specific and focused action towards this goal. This may be a commitment to speaking up more; expressing your compassion in a more concrete way; showing the strength you have when challenged or anything that would bring you closer towards your goal.

The Full Moon would reinforce the steps taken and bring to light the achievements made thus far. The greatest light will be shone upon your strengths and you weaknesses. The opportunity to refine and deepen the waters of reserve and resource that are held within the successful application of this new way of expression has been readied. And, adding to these waters (using the dynamics of the Moon and its mysteries) with focused intent will ultimately produce an overflow, which becomes the point of release and the Waning Moon’s skimming off the surface what no longer serves.

The Waning Moon’s energy would be used to release (remember, I said overflow?) what remains as emotional obstacle in allowing you to connect to those you love in a productive way. This is also the time to reassess what is most difficult for you to let go of, particularly if this is the relationship, itself. Simply being comfortable in a relationship where there is no mutual respect and nurturing is not truly honoring and loving yourself. And, eventually comfort is replaced by disenchantment and feeling loved becomes a passionate dream that must first be fulfilled by loving yourself.

Read More About:

The Intelligence of the Heart

Some Additional Astrological properties of Cancer

Keywords: Determination, Self-Discipline, Persistence.

The Archetype: The Mother is the archetype associated with Cancer. This exemplifies the aspect of Cancer that yearns for the safety of home and the encouragement of family. A Mother is the quintessential provider of these qualities. Hers is the physical body that housed and nourished as life grew within. Hers was the physical body that provided the milk of life and whose scent was the first that identified a state of being loved. Hers was the voice that soothed and hers was the gentle caress that protected as dependency gave way to exploration of the world and carving one’s own way.

Regardless of your personal relationship to your Mother, this is the archetypal energy that all desire and hold as the space where one may truly be themselves and loved for this “being” wholeheartedly and unconditionally.

Rules Astrological House: The 4th House of the Zodiac, the “House of Family and Home”.

Moving through the Zodiacal Wheel’s energy, the First House is the singular “you” identified by your personality and who you are presently and who you who hope to become. The second House holds the possessions and things you have acquired that further define you. The Third House represents how you express yourself based on what you have learned of yourself (1st House) and what you have chosen to surround yourself with in the material world (2nd House). Arriving at the Fourth House we are now ready to share who we are and what we have acquired in a setting that is sanctuary and with those who are our avid fans. This is the house that expresses the type of energy that can effectively be brought into the space considered “home”.

Color:

The Silver of the Moon’s landscape and the creamy White of fullness of orb are the colors associate with Cancer. This speaks of the watery nature held in Cancer. The value of Silver includes the vibrations of both white and black. This is the polarity of what is in abundance of Light and what has diminished Light. This is also the cycle of New Moon (the absence of light on the Moon) through the Full, when Light shines brightly and back to the absence of Light as the Moon phase wanes. Silver is the reflection of all of those permutations in between and the affirmation of ebb and flow. We seek the connection to Mother Moon not only during Her cycle of phase, but at all times as the benevolent and protective mother looking down upon her children.

Connection and Flow: Gemini to Cancer

I flow from mind
That has searched far and wide
Hungry for all that it could
Receive and communicate.

Understanding now flows
From a heart that is unfettered
The great birthing waters
Have risen and the ebb and
Flow of tides that reach deeper
Have found a home upon the
Shores that gave me life.

Cancer is the Fourth sign of the Zodiac. Having found the power of communication and mental pursuits of Gemini, Cancer is now ready to open the heart to a place of understanding what fuels the mind’s inspiration. Cancer begins the triad of the modalities anew as the Cardinal (beginning) bubbling up of the waters of emotion, intuition and their ability to beginning the healing that is needed when mind loses sight of heart. The flexibility of the mental prowess achieved in Gemini urges Cancer’s energy forward to create something new from the depths of what is most desired.

Seasonally, under the potent rays of the Cancer sun we are enjoying the last few months of heat and warmth before the Fall and harvest soon approaches. This is last call for connecting with friends and loved ones before Winter’s chill takes hold and return to school, holiday planning and the hectic pace takes charge.

Emotionally, the flow from Gemini to Cancer is one of stirring the water’s surface as the winds skim the surface carrying tales of their grand adventures (Gemini). Cancer is the home that we invite all of our friends in to, lovingly preparing a feast befitting the high regard we hold them in. Everything is infused with care and support and the result is nothing less than all-encompassing in what is deeply felt.

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

BONUS PATHWORKING:
Be sure to review The Hall of Cancer pathworking posted earlier.

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

Other Posts to Re-read:

New Moon in Cancer: Temple of the Sun
Arms Wide Open

Full Moon in Cancer: Where Waters Flow

Temple of the Moon: Dark Waning Moon in Cancer

Day Twenty-Eight: Fill Me Up
Day Twenty-Seven: Floodgates of Release

Next Post

Tuesday, July 22.2014
Temple of the Sun: Hear Me Roar-Sun in Leo

Bonus Pathworking: The Hall of Cancer

Posted in Moon Tide, The Temple of the Sun with tags cancer, Hall of Cancer, pathworking, Temple of the Sun on July 8, 2014 by themagickalpen

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 Cancer, the Crab hovers in the entryway, seeming to glow from an innermost light.

As soon as you step through the archway and the luminous white glow of the Glyph of Cancer the smells of the ocean and its waters permeate your senses. The fullness of moonlight reflects back from water’s edge and there is a sense of stillness and anticipation as the waves gently crest and fall. You feel alive and connected to everything. Your senses are alive with sounds and sights that come in flashes of liquid and heart filled memory. Emotion wells up deep inside of you and the beauty and serenity of this place seems almost more than you can bear. You pause for a moment regaining your composure and take a deep full breath to calm the rising emotions. The scene before you moves you to think back on vacations spent with family and friends at the beach. Cool nights walking barefoot in the moonlight and seeing the familiar and welcoming lights of your summer home. The sounds of laughter spilling like music across the beach and the security and sense of belonging that you so finely crafted within your home.

Feeling content and wanting to spend a bit of time alone, you sit on the cool sand and look out at the moonlit ocean. You feel safe and calm in this setting; almost as though this was precisely the place of energy and state of being that is required to feed and nurture your feeling nature. The sound of the water lapping at the sandy shore creates a mesmerizing and calming feeling within you and scenes of your past experiences pass easily and gently as you close your eyes and relax into the inner screen of your awareness.

You see yourself at the time of meeting your now best friend. You remember the feeling of hesitancy and an awkward shyness at first. This is what you usually feel at first meetings; a little vulnerable and hesitant to share your deep feeling nature. Your friend sensed this reserve and persevered in trying to get to know you and before you knew it trust had been won and you felt at home and at ease sharing your most private thoughts and feelings with this person. Your friend said you were the most loyal and nurturing person they had ever met and that you made them feel more like family than just friends. And, although there were rocky times you have remained loyal and committed to the emotional bond the two of you have. The memories of this time and the longstanding friendship and shared experiences have been deeply treasured.

You also think on a time when you felt so overwhelmed by worry that you retreated for days into your own little world. The normal calm state and kind words that you eagerly shared became sullen answers and silence. This was your mechanism for protecting the vulnerability you felt. You remember the discomfort you felt at reacting this way, wanting to reach out and nurture and heal those around you, but feeling as though there was simply too much to be felt and not enough of you to help relieve the burden of it.

You realize as you think on these two counterpoints how similar they are to the ebb and flow of the waters a few feet away from where you are sitting. The flexibility and sometimes giving fully and at other times retreating back to the larger source for renewal and replenishment are your natural state. Emotions are the waters within you that if they remained never changing would stagnate and dry up. There would be no source to feed the mental processes and no waters of inspiration to draw upon when you are in your most intuitive and creative state. As these last thoughts slowly and fully pass through you a gentle pulse of water brushes the tips of your toes resting on the now damp sand. The tide is coming in and in your reveries you did not notice the movement towards you. It is a reminder to you to remain fully present, even in your place of introspection. That your emotions can be used to inform and to bring you closer to the serenity of the moment, without having to over come and overwhelm you.

You stand and breathe in the fresh salty air. You look up towards the fullness of the moon and once again the feeling of safeness and home permeates and floods through you. You look back towards your house and see that the lights have been dimmed a bit and a warm glow shines from each of the windows. Inside are those you love. And, in the cycle of return you feel their love for you. Your best friend has come to visit for the weekend, as well, and you now see someone approaching from the house and calling out to you to come in for a game of scrabble and cup of warm tea. Feelings of gratitude and great care for those in your life fills you and you take one last look at the expanse of ocean.

As you begin to walk towards your friend to answer the call the images slowly fade with each step until once again you find that you are standing centrally in the circular room. You look upwards towards the night sky and see the full moon shining brightly into the Hall. 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.

Excerpted from:

The Inner Chamber: Volume One, It’s Written in the Stars.R.Fennelly.2013

Sun in Cancer – A Home on the Tree

Posted in Magick, Qabalah, The Temple of the Sun with tags astrology, cancer, celestial, cosmic, esoteric writings, Pisces, Qabalah, Water on July 6, 2014 by themagickalpen

I welcome you with open arms
And the expanse of my branches
Shades and protects you from all
That would call you to harm
And these gifts ebb and flow
From the dreamscape of time
As you settle into the Cosmic
Home that carries you to
Your hidden inner shores.

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

Cancer and the Moon on the Tree

Astrologically, we have learned that Cancer is ruled by the grand luminary-The Moon. Her energy flows through our mundane lives in a very physical way as we can see the efforts of her waxing and waning in her monthly cycle and feel the pull of her watery tides in the waters of our emotional bodies and the waters that comprise much of our planet. Within the Qabalistic Tree, Cancer and the Moon hold sway in the Sphere of Yesod and the Paths of the Tree – 13th, 18th and 29th. When we speak of the energy of Cancer providing a home within the Tree we are speaking to the ability of this potent astrological sign to connect at the depths of emotion, to have a very specific flexibility of expansion and contraction and to provide the precise space in which creative process may be quickened and nurtured. The pure energy of the Moon Herself is expressed in the sphere of Yesod – Foundation.

Yesod: The Sphere of Foundation

Yesod is the ninth (9th) sphere on the Tree. The number nine, itself, holds great meaning in the energy of this sphere to transform and bring to a state of ending what will be reborn anew and forever changed. In Hebrew, the word Yesod means “foundation” and the “sod” portion alone means “mystery”. This should give clue as to the energies of the Qabalistic sphere of Yesod. It is the stuff of dreams, fantasies, memory and the dwelling place of true magick. This sphere holds the key to the unknown and the unknowable. Physical form and manifest product reside in the descending connecting sphere of Malkuth, but the focus and energy which makes it “living matter” is contained within the essence of Yesod. As we descend from the higher spheres and move through the varied energies of each of the preceding and come to rest in Yesod, we have arrived at the plane of the astral. This is the working field of the “dream” of creation that creates the thoughtform of the manifest expression. Yesod serves as the storehouse of these images only, without the benefit of the life energy needed before these images can move into a realized state of manifestation in Malkuth.

Yesod is considered the sphere of the Moon. And, just as the physical moon of our world goes through its tides and cyclical changes and has great effect on our physical earth; this principle is also true within the sphere of Yesod. Dreams and the subconscious provide the building blocks that move through layers of murky water before they may be seen in clarity and their true form. This is the testing ground, so to speak and until assurances are received as to the viability of these fleeting images, action is not taken towards growth and moving forward. What we have learned of Cancer is similar in nature. Without the assurance and affirmation from those we love and trust, the fledgling individual is unsure as they progress out into the world in search of their own future and destiny.

Although Yesod is assigned the element of Air and what we have found of Cancer is watery in its presentation this is the breath of current that becomes the ephemeral experience of sensing what surrounds you, yet being unsure of where it has originated and where it is going (much like the vastness of the sea). You are simply caught in the airiness of its path. The ebb and flow of Cancer’s application is much like the breezy day, that begins with gentle caresses that move into a frenzied state of blustery conditions and finally quiets back to a state of calm. Opening these flood gates of memory stimulated by the subconscious and collective unconscious can often leave the dreamer in a state of feeling as though they just weathered a potent storm. This is the undercurrent of energy flowing through Yesod.

The Power of the Moon

The Moon was man’s first timekeeper and generated awareness of the seasons, the water’s ebb and flow, evolution and change. It also gave light to the awareness of the cyclic nature of life and the natural surroundings. On the Tree, moving through the energies of Yesod is to move in accord with the Cosmic Law of Rhythm; the natural cyclic nature of all things and the evolution and transformation at the level of the Soul through these waters of higher life. The Moon is placed on the 13th, 18th and 29th Paths of the Tree. Each iteration of its energy is informed and changed by the spheres of connection and the dynamics of the flow needed to continue the process of emanation.

To read more about the Moon’s energies, review the posts in: The Temple of the Moon

Yesod (Moon) and Tiphareth (Sun)

Yesod and Tiphareth

Tiphareth and the Sun

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

The 18th Path: Cancer and the Moon

Open your flood gates that
The birthing waters may
Cleanse and heal.

Release the power of your
Might and transform the
Wrath of injustice.

All is not viable
And into all vessels
The understanding of
Right action flows of
Its own accord.

The 18th Path provides the energy of synthesis of archetypal form and the action of individualizing. Binah offers the flow of promise of the potential of Divine form drawn into a space of selective shaping of what will ultimately be matter that has its own identity within that of its spiritual nature. This energy is dynamic in both receipt and return and the goal is one of greater understanding of the process of creating the manifest from what is the ephemeral image and conception of that form. Binah forms its concept of what the attributes and energy of its Divine child will be and Geburah offers the active energy that can bring that concept into a form more closely resembling that of a manifest being.

These energies require adaptability on the parts of the connecting spheres. If the archetypal image remains rigid in its desire or the individualized product insists on its final outcome, neither pure essence will have sway and nothing productive will come of the exchange. The adaptability required forms the basis of re-alignment of the intentions of each that are feeding into the mix and this re-alignment enables form to become actualized.
Cancer’s Ebb and Flow

The Moon is the ruling planet of the astrological sign of Cancer. The watery landscape, intuitive flow and flexible wax and wane of the emotional tides are held within the structure of the 18th Path. This is the primary need for the soothing waters of healing (Binah, the Dark Mother) to temper the sword of wielding (Geburah-the space of “tough love”) that offers as product a tool that holds its own. These are the waters that heal any wound that has been opened and carries the wounded to a place of safety and ease of rest. As the tides of healing recede what is left in their place is newly leveled ground that is ready to receive the next inrush of life affirming energy. This is the goal of coming together as community and family. This is the product of realization of being fully supported in your efforts of outreach and trusting that there is always that support to return to when healing from life’s exacting measure is required.

The 13th Path: The Path of the Moon

The Sun rose in the reflection
Of its own grand nature
And the brilliance of the
Benevolent One smiled down.

Magick flowed as prism of light
Within the sacred column of
The steadfast seeker and the
Sun-filled breath of the Divine
Spoke the words of power
As the seeker offered up
The sacrifice of devotion.

The Moon is placed upon the 13th Path and the placing of this adaptable movement of flow within the path of connection between the Crown of Kether and the harmony of Tiphareth gives the needed support of expansion and contraction towards reaching its goal of manifestation. The measure of downpour from the Source recedes and expands in its downward reach as the distributive effort of Tiphareth takes what portion is needed and carries it back to inform and enlivening its process of distribution. Think of the ebb and flow of the tides and their action of pulling in towards the shore the debris and treasures from the expanse of the source of ocean. When the tide retreats it leaves behind some of what has managed to be firmly entrenched in sand and carries incrementally back out again a combination of what is contained on the shoreline. Each working in turn with the other and each changing the landscape, even if only minutely from what it was.

The 13th Path is one of realization and the revelation of the mirror reflection of Tiphareth’s strength of will amplified, yet part of the ultimate brilliance of Kether’s downpour. This becomes the refining tool of cultivating self-consciousness. Not simply self-awareness, but the deeper gnosis of affinity and the understanding of the nature of consciousness and its connection to Spirit. The synthesized product of this interaction is one of unification. It is the unified and realized individual that can leave the safety of home and make his/her mark on the greater world creating new homes and new families of experience as product of this ease with self.

The High Priestess

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

Tarot Key II -The High Priestess sits in the Temple of the Moon and takes on the triune form of catalytic energy and transformation. She sits in the space of action as the Middle Pillar incarnate as synthesized balance of male and female, force and form. Her knowledge of the mysteries is honed in the waters of deep intuitive knowledge and her persona is that of the cycle of the moon. Placed upon the 13th Path, the High Priestess serves as reminder of the need for spiritual devotion and discipline as guardian of the great mysteries of life itself. In her feminine form she represents the power to sustain newly quickened life and stands as the ultimate gate of passage towards return to the source of creation. This Tarot key exemplifies the action of spiritual family and spiritual home. Within those energies the seeker may raise to the exalted form of catalyst. This is the space of balance that is achieved as we unify Spirit and matter within. And, this is the revelation that this home is opened only by the key that we hold as member of this spiritual family.

Another Path of Expression: The Moon on the 29th Path
The Moon/Pisces

My soul seeks the beauty of
Your refined and elegant grace.

My body yearns for the wisdom of
Love and the heat of the creative fires.

My Spirit hungers for the lessons
Found in the bliss of exquisite form.

The 29^th Path connects the spheres of Netzach (Victory) and Malkuth (Kingdom). This is the path of drawing down into the manifest and physical realms (Malkuth) the creative expression of what is defined by love, refinement and aesthetic beauty (Netzach). This is the path of feeling (Netzach) descending into matter (Malkuth). The Moon is placed upon the 29^th Path. Pisces is the astrological sign placed upon this path and represents the completion of the zodiacal wheel. Both of these energies are the fullness of emotional expression and intuitive sight. We are all familiar with the energy of the Moon, the waxing and waning of her phases and the power of her tides. Pisces adds the intensity of compassion and a grace of flow that signals the endings of one phase and the birthing waters that will signal the next.

This energy is what will stir the passions towards greater and deeper expression of what is refined and beautiful. This is the energy that fuels the soul’s need and inspires the outpouring of this emotional state of pure joy into a state of victorious expression.

As we learned in previous posts, Pisces is the third of the water Triad that includes Cancer and Scorpio as well. And, as we have also seen, there is interaction – by relation – kind of like Cancer and Pisces being third cousins with the common relative of the Moon. The home that is created here within the Tree is one of all loving and unconditional compassion. The yearning of Cancerian energy for the loving home and family is realized in the refined expression (Netzach) of a love that is pure of heart and focused on the best interest of what is in manifest form (Malkuth).

In Conclusion:

As we consider the attributes of Cancer and its ruling planet the Moon and their impact on the Tree of Life the prominent focus is one of honing the intuitive and healing nature that promotes unconditional love. Cancer brings a desire to love and to be loved and the sense of community that fosters this energy. The Moon shines in Her wisdom bringing the feminine polarity that is both creation and destruction of what does not serve and unconditionally will not thrive. The abundance of water that is reflected in Cancer and in Pisces as partners to the Moon’s energies upon the paths speaks to the natural flow of involution from the Crown and Spirit of Kether down into the manifest form of Malkuth. And, the place of filter for disbursement of this divine elixir is that of Yesod, the sphere of the Moon and the gate where the dreams of a stable and supportive home may come into manifest reality.

As the light of Tiphareth (Sun) shines brightly and radiates its vision of magnetic attraction throughout the multilayered branches of a tree that reaches far and wide in its expanse and impact we are reminded that in this light of opening is the contracted response of embrace and closing in to hold near and dear what is drawn lovingly into that embrace.

Next Posts:

TUESDAY, JULY 8.2014

BONUS: PATHWORKING – THE HALL OF CANCER

July 13.2014

Temple of the Sun: The Magick of Cancer

Resources:

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

The Magickal Pen: Geburah’s Might

WitchVox: 13 Keys: The Foundation of Yesod

13 Keys to the Qabalistic Tree of Life

Reading:

The Inner Chamber Series. R. Fennelly

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

Order at author’s website: Robin Fennelly

New Moon in Cancer – Arms Wide Open

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

June 27.2014

New Moon in Cancer
4:08 a.m.

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

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

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

Lifting the Veil

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

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

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

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

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

Arms Wide Open and Hands Filled With Love

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

Next Post:

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

Resources:

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

Moon Magick – Healing Waters

Another New Moon in Cancer 2013

Read more here in the Temple of the Moon

Day One: Flowing Through the New Moon

Take Me Home- The Sun in Cancer

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

Sun in Cancer

6.21/2014
6:51 am (EDT)

Planetary Ruler: Moon

Summer Solstice

Mysterious Course

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Element of Water

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

A Cardinal Modality

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

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

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

My heart reaches out fervently
Seeking the embrace of home.

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

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

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

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

The Next Step

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Temple of the Moon

Preparing the Way

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

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

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

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

It’s All About the Feeling

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

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

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

Take Me Home:

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

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

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