Archive for Temple of the Sun

From the Center of My Being-Full Moon in Scorpio

Posted in Uncategorized with tags , , , , , on May 1, 2015 by themagickalpen

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May 3.2015
Full Moon in Scorpio
11:42pm (EDT)

The Moon waxes full in the astrological sign of Scorpio late Sunday evening. It uses the cover of darkened night to exert the mystery and hidden truths that are part and parcel of Scorpion energy.

A Full Moon signifies the opposition of Sun and Moon. In this case we have the strength, solidity and straight forwardness of the earthy Taurus Sun feeling the passive aggressiveness of a moody emotional landscape filled with hidden surprises and carefully guarded secrets that is the life’s blood of a Scorpio Moon. Scorpio is known for its mystery and the ability to intuit information as it dips deeply into areas that prefer their privacy. The challenge is one of remaining too long in this space of introspection and the effects of becoming prisoner of your own darker nature. This is also why Scorpio is prone to obsessive and addictive behavior.  Now, although this can become a detriment, that same obsessive and addictive nature can be re-tooled to become the passion that guides the course to success and the stability of habitual and predictable response that holds steady the course when everything around is in chaos.

So, how can this energy be used at the Full Moon? It’s a great time to do some soul searching and call to the foreground what keeps you motivated at an emotional level. What are your passions and what form of disciplined action will you create that becomes your positive and productive addiction? My natal Moon is in Scorpio, so I use the energy of a moon in Scorpio to sit in reflection, allow myself intuitive nature to rise up and become the healing waters that transform. An aspect of Scorpio that is often overlooked is that of healing. One of its associations is that of Death. Any death leaves the space for new growth to begin. Having Mother Moon cloaked in Scorpio’s death pall ensures that wherever there is release, healing is soon to follow.

Saturn (Mid-March) and Pluto (Mid-April) are Retrograde:

We are only two weeks into the Pluto Retrograde and already there are signs that many people are feeling its effects. Tightly wound and seeming to be vibrating within with pent up energy that is just about ready to burst is not uncommon and put a group of this energy together and the effect is much like the vibrating tray of metal balls- some bumping into each and causing others to fall off!

I had mentioned in the last post that Pluto is the ruling planet of Scorpio, and although it is not currently in that astrological sign, it still provides one of the underlying currents of this Full Moon’s energies. Mother Moon will provide additional light into those darkened recesses and what has been percolating at a personal level will have the opportunity for closer inspection.

Another Aspect to Consider

Mercury will form an aspect in opposition to (Retrograde) Saturn. Mercury is the planet of communication and Saturn likes to keep order and structure with tight control. With the dynamic of these two in opposition, and the added emphasis of Saturn’s nature while retrograde think on the concept of censorship and difficulty getting everything out that you wish to express (Mercury) because it has just been re-written by the CEO of micromanagement.

Much of what will be communicated will be restricted in its content and interpretation, so as you sit in reflection or have desire to allow the full moon to inform, be mindful that you will only be receiving part of the communication intended. Take what is given and then allow Time (another of Saturn’s focus)to fill in as it will what was not able to be fully received.

Mercury is gearing up for its retrograde on May 18th, heralding a Trinity of Air (Mercury), Fire (Saturn) and Earth (Pluto); all highly focused and directed by their planet’s retrograde.

From the Center of My Being:

Let the fullness of the Moon’s Light and the healing of Scorpio’s waters purify and open up the space of integration and inner work that has been called into action in the very core of who and what you are. This is the time for a bit of breathing room from the rigidity exacted by Saturn as Pluto dug deeply to retrieve and reveal to you what the past held and the future promises. Allow the sting of the Scorpion’s tail to part the internal veiling that has left you feeling at odds and off-center.

Let the deep water’s of Mother Moon’s grace provide the light by the lessons learned from Saturn’s structure may be carried on the wings of Scorpio’s keen sighted Eagle. And, as this flooding of purifying light bursts forth let its fires transform what is ready to receive the blessing of Scorpio’s Phoenix. These steps are the necessary healing that must occur as we enter the next round of retrograde Saturn and Pluto’s catalyzing energy.

Remember, one step at a time. A time for assessing. A time for re-ordering. A time for integration and agitation. A time for transformation. A time for purifying and preparation and a time for things ti begin anew so the next level of steps may be realized.

Read more here:

Pluto Retrograde-You Have Been Served
Saturn Retrograde-Time to Clean House

Read more about Scorpio:
Temple of the Sun-Scorpio

The Magick of Scorpio

Posted in Magick, The Temple of the Sun with tags , , , , on November 17, 2014 by themagickalpen

Slide1
The Magick of Scorpio
Deep, Passionate and Thoroughly Transforming

The Magick of Scorpio is fueled by desire, will and all of the emotions that are associated with a nature that is intense and complex in its expression. Whatever we apply Scorpion energy towards is going to receive the opportunity to reach deeply into he introspective and intuitive self and draw from those depths what is needed to completely change everything.

Scorpio’s strength lay in being able to reshape by will and transform through the power of emotion. This means that the process itself will be intense and at times extremely uncomfortable.

The caution here is that of obsession and fixation that keeps those emotional waters from moving in a productive way and instead reek havoc on everything that is in their raging path. In Leo we found the place of drama that can ensue when too much of the “me” becomes the focused obsession. With Scorpio, the drama that ensues is One that remains in the shadows, intensely brooding and when it does erupt appears to come out of no where with no clear definitive source.

Scorpio goes straight for the heart of the matter. Workings that strive to change or transform are most successful under Scorpio’s energy. The same attention to refinement and balance to craft the most beautiful of expression now has potential to become the object of desire and with that implication everything originally assigned to the Libran beauty will now take on a different quality of life as they are adored and worshiped intensively and deeply.

Scorpio is the fourth sign of the second cycle of quadrant of Elements in progression around the zodiacal wheel. This is the second of the Water astrological signs and in the order of progression, Scorpio brings an emotional state that has ability to express itself in either state of extreme. This is the progression from the home seeking Cancerian who forms attachments by what it defines as worthy of its trust in exchange for the security achieved. By the time we arrive at the third of the Water signs, Pisces, all experience is held within the moving waters of compassion for others and self-sacrifice as an expression of that compassion.

Insight-filled

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Scorpio as a sign of the Fixed Water Modality provides the quality of synthesis and structure of a suitable vessel to contain the potential overflow. Libra’s gift of change through inspired mind set the stage for collaboration between mind and the heart of Scorpios desire. When Scorpio opens its gates of insight what is released are all of the ingredients necessary for birthing something transformed. The recipe is one that has been forged through introspection and the silent observation. Taking it all in, processing it at a deep level of understanding and then formulating a response based entirely on the motivations of feeling.

Solar Month Magick

Enhances the intuitive and emotional process of transformation:

Scorpio as the Eighth sign of the Solar Year concerns itself with the cycles of endings and beginnings. Think of the number 8 and the possibility of either entering through the gates of the two circles atop one another or leaving from those Gates; drawing the experience held in that space of between as the synthesized action.

The Solar Month of Scorpio is an excellent time to begin the work of change. Although Scorpio is a water sign, many of the ways in which it works it magick is in a fiery way. Passion, drama and intensity of feeling blaze their way through any working burning off the steam and leaving dynamically changed waters that provide a clarity despite the depths into which they reach.

The energy of this Solar month of Scorpio next flows into the Fires of Sagittarius and the arrows of networking and stimulation that are shot from that archer’s bow need the softening of Scorpio’s waters of self-knowledge to ensure that their aim is true.

The Scorpion approach can be used for short-term projects, but is most effective for long-term workings. A goal, such as opening your intuitive gifts more fully benefit from Scorpio’s solar energies.

Similar to the New, Full and Waning cycles of the Lunar Month, beginning the working in the Solar Month of Scorpio would be the first phase of testing and exploring how you interact with the world in a purely organic and intuitive way. This would require some “soul” searching to find what your hidden desires are and what motivations are driven by those desires and which are informed by a Higher Self. As you move through the Solar month you will begin to recognize what are primal urges and needs and what are actions that align with a path of growth and productivity. One of the detriments of Scorpio is addictive behavior. The light of Solar energy can reveal those areas that are habitual and keep you stuck emotionally.

Using the cycle of Water and those astrological signs of that element the next point of bolstering the energy would be during Pisces’ Solar Month. The Solar Month of Pisces provides the place of forgiveness and self-compassion. Healing and the comfort of knowing that what you have revealed of a nature that is not intuitively guided is the focus of this solar month. Pisces also has the gift of empathy. When empathy and compassion align being driven by the best interest for all concerned, we are truly listening and opening to our deeper insight.

Having finally arrived in the energy of the Solar month of Cancer, all that has been drawn from previous experience can now be shared as the seeker can now acknowledge his/her part in the world family of humanity. The scorpion has risen to the place of the Eagle, keen sight and able to see where there is need and offer the emotional supports that foster growth.

Lunar Magick: Time for Change

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Engages the transformation of those feelings and perceptions we have about ourselves that lay beneath the surface.

Use of Lunar energy in the astrological sign of Scorpio provides the energetic principle of providing the tools needed for permanent transformative change. When we explore the motives behind the actions and concepts we cling so fiercely to we have the opportunity to reveal not only to the world, but to ourselves what we have that is useful and what we affirm of our truths that are unfounded.

Workings that require a cleansing of false beliefs and emotions that hold us prisoner make use of the intensity of Scorpio. Workings that encourage deeper exploration of those aspects of yourself that you hide and bring you needless pain can be brought to the surface for a closer look. When we reveal those things that make us feel vulnerable, we are taking the first steps towards changing the ways we feel, think and express ourselves.
Using the Triune nature of Scorpio lends itself well doing a working that will access the triple phase of the Moon.

The New Moon of Scorpio (The Scorpion) could be used diving into those deep waters of your emotional “stuff” that you try to hide from others (and at times shun away from yourself). Call upon the opening and awakening of the intuitive self and begin a process of descent into looking at the shadows of cobwebs that hold your secrets. Look at each thing that arises and remain detached from them. Breathe deeply, taking in all that presents itself. One thing will stand out above the others. This is the focus of work for the next phases. After making selection, set the intention that you will allow yourself the space of embracing this aspect in all of its energy, but it will hold no power over you. A you move towards the Full Moon, allow more and more of this thing to come to the light of scrutiny and each time engaging the feeling and intuitive part of self.

The Full Moon of Scorpio (The Eagle) would be used to see and feel the fullness of this thing and to rise above its power over you, seeing now that it has none other than what you have given it. Allow the healing waters of Mother Moon to cleanse and soothe the efforts of your work during the waxing. Now, soar above as the Eagle, seeing what has been cleared from you and opening to a broader perspective of who you really are.

The energy of the Waning Moon in Scorpio (The Phoenix) would serve as the final point of release and the allowance of new growth from that release. Spend some time in the dark and a place of quiet. Recall what you have learned of yourself as you drew to the light what you had kept hidden. Recall the feeling of healing and weight removed in clearing away what held you captive. Recall the pain of this release and breathe into it deeply and fully. See that pain ignited by the passion for change and the need for regrowth. Allow the flames to rise burning away any last ties to what you have released. See the ashes smoldering and call forth the power of your inner desire, the flame of your spiritual self and see the fires burning anew, strong and vibrant from those ashes. See them rising into the darkness of night sky and allow your gratitude for this space of regeneration.

Some Additional Astrological properties of Scorpio
Keywords: Introspection, Passion, Emotional Power

The Archetype: The Actor is the archetype associated with Scorpio. Scorpio is the master of disguise and personas. The hidden and keeping everything “close to the heart” are natural tendencies of Scorpio. In the Actor we see one who has command of the stage, the character to be played and the audience captivated by the illusion created. So too, Scorpio crafts the projection of what it wishes, largely in effort tot protect emotions and feelings that are intense and deep. The actor slips easily from the shadows of the wings, preparing for the grand entrance, just as Scorpio emerges from the depths, soaring in the glory of the fullness of brilliant light and if successful, finishes off in a blaze of glory, the likes of which very few have seen.

Rules Astrological House:
The 8th House of the Zodiac, the House of Relationships and Sex

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). The Fourth House has taught the lessons of home and family; commitment and unconditional love for who we are now and who we hope to become. Arriving at the Fifth House we are now ready to emerge from the security of friends and family and stand courageously in the Light of the choices we have made, that have contributed to the crafting of this self. Moving on towards the Sixth House we are ready to give, to serve, to cultivate and to learn the lessons of harmonious interaction. Moving next into the Seventh House we stand ready to gather to ourselves all that we have learned on the journey thus far and use it to explore new paths, learn new ways of being and open to the partnerships forged on a new chosen path.

When we enter the Eight House we have the necessary experience to form emotional attachments that are passionate in their intensity and seeking the fulfilling of a yearning for more. Experience, however does not necessarily bring wisdom. With that being said, the eight House with the ruling of Scorpio is often considered the House of Sex. Scorpio is considered the most sexually aware of the signs of the zodiac. When we engage sexually the intent is to give oneself fully over to another as we feed our own needs and desires.

Just as the number eight refers to the cyclical nature of life, so too, sex ensures the potential of life having continuation. The physical act itself is the death of a singularity and the rebirth of a unification of dual forms. At a spiritual level the act of procreation is that of the replication of the holographic light of each being of humanity regenerated and renewed as it passes through its varied forms lifetime to lifetime.

Color:
The color Red in its darkest and richest hue is well suited to Scorpio’s energy. This is the color of life’s blood when exposed to the breath of life. This is the flush of cheek in sexual ecstasy. This is the burning flame of passion so fierce in its intensity as it flames in raging need. The red of Scorpio’s intense passion and desire of will flows through the healing blue waters of emotion. As they blend and merge creating new pathways of expression, rising from the depths and soaring clear and free of inhibition, passion and healing become the unified purple of spiritual gift and healing form.

Taking it All: Libra into Scorpio

Beauty came to rest in the
Depths of my Soul.

I yearned for its gentle caress
And desired it fill my hunger.

Balance had no place in
My desire to possess it
And excess took hold.

What I hoped to have as my own
Demanded I learn the truth
Of myself.

I sought a place of refuge
And in my yearning still
I arose renewed as I took
The beauty of my gentle
Self within.

Scorpio is the Eighth sign of the Zodiac:
Scorpio takes up the work of testing the limits of what Libra strove to balance and refine. Scorpio seeks to find the definition of itself in the emotional experiences it has. This seeking often becomes a passion to give so fully that when similar response is not received, drama and heartbreak ensues.

Seasonally, Scorpio heralds the lifting of the veils as Samhain and Beltane are the focus of celebrations in the Northern and Southern hemispheres, respectively. This is reflected again in the number eight and the eternity of endings and beginnings. The veils of Samhain reveal the mysteries of those ancestors and loved ones who have passed from human form. The call is one of receipt of wisdom and the awakening of the intuitive waters to hear the messages gifted.

The veils of Beltane welcome those soul’s that seek incarnate life and the realms of the greater Earth. The fecundity and revelry of Beltane often produces the offspring that enter this world of human form having passed through the veils and become the seeds of conception.

We have crossed the mid-point in the Solar Year and the 12 Houses of the Astrological signs. Each prior to this point has concerned itself with those aspects of our being that cultivate sense of self (Aries); sense of others (Taurus); expression of ourselves (Gemini); nurturing what we hold close to our hearts (Cancer); moving into our place of power (Leo) and claiming responsibility for taking a closer look at who we have become (Virgo); and finding that place of refinement through interaction. Scorpio marks the advent of self-knowledge and re-forming what has come before as the utterly transformed Being rises from the ashes of that self-analysis.

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.

Resources
Other Posts to Re-read:

Temple of the Sun: Scorpio

Sun in Scorpio- Open the Flood Gates and Lift the Veils
Full Moon in Scorpio (May 2014)
Fiery Waters- New Moon in Scorpio (2013)

Temple of the Moon:
Day Ten: Rise Like the Phoenix-New Moon in Scorpio
Day Nine: Entering Deep Waters-Waxing Moon in Scorpio

Next Post
Saturday, October 22.2014
Temple of the Sun: Transit into Sagittarius
New Moon in Sagittarius

The Mysteries of Fertile Flow: Full Moon in Taurus

Posted in Auspicious Days, Full Moon, Lunar, Solar, The Temple of the Sun, Waxing Moon with tags , , , , , , , , , , on November 3, 2014 by themagickalpen

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Full Moon in Taurus
November 6.2014
5:23 p.m. (EST)

Sun in Scorpio

Darkened waters
Flow in earth’s
Fertile Temple.

Moon light finds
Crevices of opening
Lighting the waters
That hold the mystery
Of foundation’s story.

I seek the solace of
What is hidden deep
Beneath and promises
Structure of earthen form.

I seek what lay in the
Dark waters that will
Support and uphold
My stepping into
The vast unknown.

I call forth the
Guardians that hold
The key to my Soul’s
Deepest desires and
From their grace I find
That fertile space of
Mysterious flow.

The Moon waxes Full on Thursday in the astrological sign of Taurus (Fixed Earth) and you can feel the build up intensely as it reaches deeply into the very core of who we are as physical beings. The opposition of astrological energy that naturally occurs during a Full Moon phase is the tug of war between what appear to be opposing energies. At the time of this Full Moon the Solar energy is expressed by an astrological sign who remains hidden and cloaked by the persona it chooses to present (Scorpio) and the very concrete and tangible energy of a Full Moon in Taurus, the earthy sign of strength and fearless in putting itself out there.

This is the Full Moon that occurs during the “tween” stages of death (Samhain in the Northern Hemisphere) and anticipated creation of newly conceived forms (Beltane in the Southern Hemisphere). Each holds the mystery of a cycle that continues in process eternally as something decays and disintegrates to give way to something fresh, new and with promise.

Everything about the Solar Month of Scorpio feels mysterious and dynamic and ready to be explored intensely and with fervor. Scorpio as a water sign amps up the intuitive nature and Taurus as the holder of Mother Moon’s burgeoning, provides the stable container through which they may flow strongly. Because of its placement at the heart of the thinning of the veils of Samhain (and Beltane) we reach out to ancestor and beings of the Greater earth with a deep yearning to know more of their wisdom, feel the blessings of their gifts and enter the healing waters of solace at being able to connect once again with what we can no longer see.

This Full Moon makes optimal use of the Fixed modality of both of its astrological signs. The fixed Water of Scorpio and the Fixed Earth of Taurus. We have discussed previously the energy of the Four Holy Creatures as being held within these two of the four signs of attribution (Aquarius and Leo, being the other two). Here we see the tension of opposition between the winged Bull of Taurus and the Eagle of Scorpio. Both ascending to loftier heights and thus leaving their baser more primal qualities behind, yet both still of the Animal Kingdom. One the king of the skies (Eagle) and the other the master of Earth’s strength (Bull).

The natural point of opposition here between Moon and Sun is one of remaining firmly grounded in Spirit (winged Bull of Taurus) and the unlimited soaring above towards the point and source of Spirit in its highest form (the eagle of Scorpio). The opportunity here is one of transcending emotions that hold you inert and allowing them to rise in meeting the expression of their true form and fullness informed from the wellspring of a wisdom that is from a Higher source. Envision this:

The Moon shines brightly in her fullness across a landscape of firm earth. You stand in the beams of Her glory, anchored, strong and with a heart that beats fiercely and strongly; ready to guard and protect all that you hold dear. You walk with authority moving across fertile ground and the damp earth beneath gives way at the weight and might of your physical form.

You breathe in air that is full and richly scented with life that await beneath the surface of your domain and pride and confidence flow from each footfall. You continue to walk and the ground beneath becomes moister with each step, water bubbling up from beneath this surface as moonlight sparkles now like diamonds on its gently moving surface. You take another step and feel the sharp pain of a stinger pierce the flesh of your foot and all the nerve endings in your body awaken in response. You feel the thrill of pain and life as you are moved from the reveries of your power.

Visions of crystal clarity and the knowledge that you have stepped on a creature hidden in the soft soil beneath flood through you. A brilliance of light flashes and the light of the Moon is now the brilliance of the Sun shining down on parched land. You are surprised that one has given way to the other. You see the vast expanse of all that surrounds and look upward towards the burning orb of Sun. You feel the warmth of heated waters beneath your feet and the pain you felt gives way to soothing heat. You have never felt more alive and more connected to all that surrounds and is within you.

You breathe deeply into this space of power and strength the veiling of the world around disappears and you find yourself once again in the brilliance of Mother Moon’s Full Light. The beating of your heart strong and affirming your physical form and the uplifting of your spirits complete as emotion and body, heart and temple of precious life are one.

The Mysteries of Fertile Flow

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On this evening of the Full Moon I am going to make optimal use of honoring the vessel of my human form and allow the flowing waters of fertility and strength to create new streams of opening to those deeper waters of my emotional self. I will stand strong in the deepened waters rooted in my humanity and the many ways I choose to express it. I will call on the tension of a Sun that holds strong in what boils deep in the caverns of what I have created as place of prison and limitation for its growth and expression. I will look more deeply at what is held within that will nurture, safe guard and be brought into the healing light of Mother Moon’s grace, no longer cowering in the dark. These are the mysteries I will seek and carry with me into Friday evening as the potency of Astrological Samhain calls me to re-member.

Resources and Reflections

Taurus in Related Posts:
Temple of the Sun: Taurus
New Moon in Taurus
The Magick of Taurus
Full Moon in Taurus-2013

The Temple of the Moon:
Day Twenty-Two:Waning Moon in Taurus

 

Check back Friday for a Special Post about Astrological Samhain

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November 7.2014
7:56 am

The Magick of Libra

Posted in Magick, The Temple of the Sun with tags , , , , , , , , , , , , on October 12, 2014 by themagickalpen

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The Magick of Libra is anchored in the concept of beauty, balance and harmony. Whatever we apply Libran energy towards is going to receive the advantage of a mental perspective that sees what needs refining and what has potential to become a source of inspiration. Libra’s strength lay in being able to take what others may perceive as coarse and turn it into something that brings pleasure at all levels of experience. This means that its energy seeks balance in all things and will mentally deconstruct what is inharmonious as a means of cutting it out of the picture.

The caution here, is one of being overly critical. Virgo’s critique was exacted in much the same manner but its focus was on what was concrete and already a “finished” product. With Libra the emphasis is one of logical and rational thinking that can be decidedly cold and objective in its criticism. If heart is not included in the equation, the overall attitude is one that can easily be perceived as snobbery and inaccessibility. The scales of Libra tip in either direction and it is all a matter of the beholder as to what form the striving for beauty takes.

Libra works directly on what we value and our philosophical approach to culture, society and the ethics imposed within that society. Workings that strive towards making themselves visually appealing and inspiring are served well under Libra’s influence. The same attention to detail that we found in Virgo is now further refined and the Pygmalion effect is applied cautiously and judiciously. What has been carefully crafted and fashioned from Libra’s delicate hand is adored, admired and life is breathed into it by its creator so it may serve to captivate all in a similar way.

Libra is the third sign of the second cycle of quadrant of Elements in progression around the zodiacal wheel. This is the second of the Air astrological signs and in the order of progression, Libra brings its own form of stability through a homogenous mental process to what preceded it in the dual and at times unsteady outpouring of Gemini. By the time we arrive at the third of the Air signs, Aquarius, the necessary unbridled brainstorming (Gemini) that is equalized and brought to a space of useable new flow (Libra) is ready to change the vision (Aquarius) the world and its many life forms has of ITSELF.

Weighing Your Truths

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Libra as a sign of the Cardinal Air Modality provides the quality of catalytic bursts of beginnings. It is this ability to see the potential held in the yet to be fully realized product that Libra uses adeptly to transform. Libra’s gift of change through inspired mind, offers the space to re-conceptualize what was thought to be true about any given thing and reshape it much like an architect creates a beautiful and functional building from the complex blue prints that were rough sketches and a vision held in the inventive mind. Libra works directly on our philosophies and motivations as the conscience that monitors what we hold as being ethical and what is a gray area. This serves to further refine as the process continues towards the emotionally inspiring end result.

Creating from the directives of conscience and values is what often provides the materials for those artistically inspired projects. This is the skill of the artist in being able to evoke emotion from what the mind of skeptic or admirer perceives and the subjective heart responds to. This is the gift of the lover who makes his/her beloved feel like the most beautiful object of desire, despite excess weight, scars or what others perceive as physical imperfections. This is the skill of the arbitrator who is able to make both sides see the values and discord of their own beliefs and arrive at amenable agreement drawing the best from both and arriving at an equitable and productive outcome.

Solar Month Magick

Enhances the mental process of weighing and measuring what inequities and disparities are held as truths:

Libra as the Seventh sign of the Solar Year concerns itself with restoration of what has dipped too far in an unproductive direction. The Solar Month of Libra is an excellent time to take stock of the pros and cons in what comes to the place of light. This may be how you present yourself to others, the products that are shared and the communities you have linked yourself with. If the clutter has been cleared from the energy of Virgo’s Solar Month, there is enhanced clarity about what and where the weight of measure should be applied.

The energy of this Solar month of Libra next flows into the Waters of Scorpio and all bets are off as the scorpion lay in wait hoping for transformation into the keen sight of the Eagle and the final redemption of the Phoenix arising from the blazing waters of the subconscious. If the work of Libra is done effectively, Scorpio will open its floodgates of heart and healing will fill become the fulcrum of Divine work.

The Libran approach can be used for short-term projects, but is most effective for long-term workings. A goal, such as re-scripting and re-(de)fining who you are in the world would benefit from Libra’s Solar energies.

Similar to the New, Full and Waning cycles of the Lunar Month, beginning the working in the Solar Month of Libra would be the first phase of sorting out what you feel is supportive of the image you wish to develop and what is not; examining it from the place of what you think, rather than what you feel about each thing that is brought to light. You would incrementally fine-tune this list during the month, giving contemplative time to each as you weigh its merits and measure the extent of its detriments. As you move through the Solar month you will begin to recognize where the imbalances lay and what may need further refining and what is best let go.

Using the cycle of Air and those astrological signs of that element the next point of bolstering the energy would be during Aquarius’ flow. The Solar Month of Aquarius offers the Fixed Modality of stability to bring all of the parts into analyzing the equation. Within this mind-space there is light enough to see more clearly the vision of what these changes would look like. The concept being the primary focused that can then be fueled by engagement of the desire and heart to bring into reality what is envisioned.

Having finally arrived in the energy of the Solar month of Gemini, the flexible and agile mind now has a point of reference established within the vision of Aquarius and can modify and change as needed to project and communicate what has been refined. Remaining flexible and agile in that flexibility insures that the process of transformation may be started anew as the image becomes outdated and no longer who you are.

Lunar Magick: Cultivating Beauty

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Engages the transformation of the concept of how the emotions balance and harmonize the mind and the efficacy of the outcome as a synthesized expression of the creative nature.

Use of Lunar energy in the astrological sign of Libra provides the energetic principle of providing the idea of what is appealing and is the quintessential expression of beauty that encourages more of the same. This is beauty not necessarily in the mundane sense but the quality of beauty that occurs when everything is working as it should in a way that makes sense, is logical and maintains harmony. When the emotional landscape is served in this way, emotions become the passions that create simply for the sake of expressing what lay at the core of that expression. This is the basis of artistry and a key component in the principle of love.

When we unconditionally love, we passionately love who and what we love not because of their overt beauty, but because within there is a resonance and a balance that is achieved by the very act of our loving in this way. Each becomes a partner in the relationship and although the measure of give and take is not always equilateral, there is enough knowledge of the fundamental nature of that partner that adjustments can be made and harmony is restored.

Workings that require a sense of balancing what could become excesses and then re-forming them to a place of productive and justifiable flow make use of Libra’s scales. Workings that encourage self-love and identification of one’s self as being lovable and an expression of beauty in all of your forms can be crafted to be potent and effective when processed by Libra’s artistic mind and sense of aesthetics.

The New Moon of Libra could be used to bring to the surface those feelings you hold about yourself that prevent you from feeling loved and lovable. Hold the intention of developing a perception of these attributes through the lens of offering rationale and justification for relinquishing the power of those that are less than positive and affirming the potential of those that could be reformed into becoming your strengths. See this process as one of standing as both juror and judge of how you have unjustly seen yourself. Libra will begin the process of allowing you the objectivity needed as impartial judge and the empathy of the juror who has experienced similar unfounded perception.

The Full Moon of Libra would be used to emotionally engage with what you have come to see as your qualities of strength. The showcase of the artist hanging the painting on the wall of his/her best qualities for all to see and admire is held in the fullness of this moon. The reactions and responses of all who see this painting will vary in their own perceptions of what a truly beautiful work of art is, but that is of no matter to the artist who has poured their soul into crafting what they wish to express of what feeds and nurtures their vision of beauty within. This is the time to lovingly offer appreciation for all of those qualities that you have brought to a place of Divine expression and resonance with the inner beauty held within the creative waters of inspired and harmonious action.

The energy of the Waning Moon in Libra would serve as the final removal of any masks of self that are not authentic and do not serve to create a state of balance within. These are the truths that others tell us in response to what they see. These are the falsehoods that we tell ourselves as we move from a place of balance and return to feeling unloved. These are the emotions that are disconnected with what we truly feel and if not brushed away gather as a mantle that clouds the true beauty of what lay beneath. Every flower that is tenderly and lovingly cultivated comes to the point where it requires pruning and weeding of what would conceal its value. And, so we are also the flower that is being cultivated by our own loving hand.

Some Additional Astrological properties of Libra

Keywords: Balance, Refinement, Collaboration

The Archetype: The Judge is the archetype associated with Libra. It is no surprise that the archetype of the Judge would be assigned to Libra. There is a sense of fairness, ethics and unbiased decision that accompanies the idealized image of one who would stand as judge. Note that I said “idealized” image, as none can remain entirely impartial. Every decision, every action, every conclusion will be formed by what has been personal experience and the underpinnings of how we emotionally engage.

And, although my perceptions of this archetype may evoke an image that is contradictory to what Libra’s energy is, I feel that it is exactly the personal and unbiased baseline that makes it possible for any judgment to be made. Libra’s energy requires the personal to support the outcome. Striving towards balance and then transforming that harmonious state into an expression that creatively engages the emotions through the process of mind can only be accomplished when the connection is made at a deeply personal level.

Rules Astrological House:

The 7th House of the Zodiac, the House of Higher Learning and Partnerships

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). The Fourth House has taught the lessons of home and family; commitment and unconditional love for who we are now and who we hope to become. Arriving at the Fifth House we are now ready to emerge from the security of friends and family and stand courageously in the Light of the choices we have made, that have contributed to the crafting of this self. Moving on towards the Sixth House we are ready to give, to serve, to cultivate and to learn the lessons of harmonious interaction. And, now moving into the Seventh House we stand ready to gather to ourselves all that we have learned on the journey thus far and use it to explore new paths, learn new ways of being and open to the partnerships forged on a new chosen path.

The Seventh House is often considered that of Higher Learning. The number seven is found throughout occult and esoteric studies in varied forms; seven days of the week, seven elder planets, seven subtle bodies, seven chakras and more. The harmonious double triad of the number Six gives the support, experience and courage needed to reach a little further out of the comfort zone and see what more there is to learn. Libra placed here is the expression of that reaching out and weighing the strengths and weaknesses so we can move forward on new paths in our best form.

Color:

The color Green in its most vibrant and clear forms is well suited to the energy of Libra. This is the color of the plant life of a fertile and balanced Earth receiving adequate Sun and Rain. This is the color of a rare and beautiful Emerald necklace caressing the skin of its wearer that speaks of opulence and grace. Green is the secondary color combining the soothing properties of blue (sky) and the strengthening of yellow (Sun). What is strengthened can easily heal and return to its perfected state of being that is balanced in all of its needs and expressions raising it to a place of grace and refined beauty.

Blooming into Beauty: Virgo to Libra

Her gentle hand moved
And fingers pulled this way
And that untangling what
Served no purpose.

For a time I was not whole
And I waited and watched
As more was taken and
I felt vulnerable and
Incomplete in my form.

I waited and hoped not
To be the strand that was
Would be cast aside.

I breathed into the waiting
And exhale carried me
Gently on its wings.

Others soon were added
Each more beautiful
Than the next and
Soon the field was
Bursting with fragrant
Sun kissed face.

Nature had woven
Her magick of sorting
Weighing and measuring
What would be scattered
On the winds and stirs
The seeker of Her gifts
To the grace and balance
Of the vision of Her beauty.

Libra is the Seventh sign of the Zodiac:

Libra takes up the work of refining what Virgo started and is now ready to put the finishing touches on what remains. Libra is the second of the Air signs and as such brings the expression of thoughts and ideas through the vehicle of the mental process. Libra brings this energy to a place of synthesis, eloquence and expression in a way that engages the senses and thus inspires more of the same.
Seasonally, under the scrutiny of Libra’s energy, in the Northern Hemisphere, we have connected with the greater Earth and the sacrifice of the animal kingdom to insure that animal and man will survive the coming winter. We have learned of the sharing of resources needed amongst all that is living and the place of balance in taking only what is needed, neither in excess nor in not having enough. In the Southern Hemisphere we are preparing for the festivities of Beltane, the fecundity and beauty of creating life. We have celebrated the Spring Equinox the place of pause and equilateral balance of day and night and this energy has been sustained and carried forward as Libra holds those scales of measure. Because of these strivings the beauty of the natural world will be maintained and the cycles of death and rebirth will be justifiable balanced.

We have crossed the mid-point in the Solar Year and the 12 Houses of the Astrological signs. Each prior to this point has concerned itself with those aspects of our being that cultivate sense of self (Aries); sense of others (Taurus); expression of ourselves (Gemini); nurturing what we hold close to our hearts (Cancer); moving into our place of power (Leo) and claiming responsibility for taking a closer look at who we have become (Virgo). Libra marks the advent into the unknown waters of putting that self “out there” for interaction, input and greater collaboration with others.

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.

Resources

Other Posts to Re-read:

Temple of the Sun: Libra

Living on the Edge – New Moon in Libra
It is Truly Beautiful – The Sun in Libra
New Moon in Libra (2013)
The Manifest Refinement of Heart and Will- Full Moon in Libra

 

The Temple of Venus (Ruling Planet of Libra)

 

Temple of the Moon:

Day Eight: Refining and Polishing – Waxing Moon in Libra
Day Seven: it All Balances Out – Waxing Moon in Libra

 

Next Posts

Sunday, October 19.2014
Bonus Post

Thursday, October 23.2014
Temple of the Sun: Transit into Scorpio

Sun in Libra – The Tree of Grace

Posted in Qabalah, The Temple of the Sun, The Temple of Venus, Venus with tags , , , , , , , on September 29, 2014 by themagickalpen

15

Image: Josephine Wall

In the early morning light
My beauty is graced by
Song bird’s beating wing
And awakening of leaf and life.

The noon-day sun cascades
Over my upstretched limbs
Heating and refining the
Visage of my furrowed bough.

Dusk descends and I strain
And stretch reaching up
Towards last Sun’s light.

And as darkness falls the
Memory of the day’s renewal
Weighs the measure of growth
In my aspiration towards
Heaven’s brilliant Gate.

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.

Libra and Venus on the Tree

Astrologically, we have learned that Libra is ruled by the planet of nature’s beauty and refined grace, Venus. We experienced the energy of each interaction we have, every thought and idea, and every act of creative expression as a form of the planet Mercury’s endeavors to inform, share and interconnect. Now, within the harmonious balance of Libra, the feminine aspect of these qualities is transformed as mind is replaced by heart and the feelings evoked and responses chosen are honed by Venus’ hand of creation’s beauty.

Within the Qabalistic Tree, Libra and Venus hold sway in the Sphere of Netzach and the Paths of the Tree – 14th and 22nd. When we speak of the energy of Libra as offering the space of refinement and grace within the energy of the Tree, we are considering the natural tendency of Libra to offer up its exquisite sense of balance and creative efforts spawned by the desire to give expression to the emotion that is flowing. This energy is expressed in the seeking of balance within each of the spheres and the wild beauty of their expression as a source of transformation. This desire to create and express is found in the fires of the Qabalistic sphere of Netzach.

Netzach (Venus) and Tiphareth (Sun)

Colored Tree

Tiphareth and the Sun

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

Netzach: The Sphere of Refined Creation

Deep within the heart
Of the emerald jewel
Lay the great mysteries
Of time and love.

The lamp is lit
And glows within
Edges sharp where
Line and point
Intersect poignantly
At the place of equilibrium.

From the wellspring rises
Form of beauty and
Intelligence refined
As Pleiades dance
In response to the
Sound of planets’
Symphony.

And, all is held gently
Contained in beauty’s grace
As she unites with clarity of
Mind and focus of heart.

Netzach is the Seventh (7) Sphere. Within the energy of the number 7 lay the many paths of higher expression and development. Seven is the number of the Pleiades, the number of the Elder Planets of Astrology, the Seven Sacred Vowels and the Seven Major Chakras within the subtle bodies. This is also the number of synthesis, having moved from the harmonious balance of the number six to a point of gathering all of those experiences into a place of multiple options and outcomes for further expression and exploration. Netzach’s English name is “Victory”. There are many ways in which we may become Victorious in our expression, but in all circumstances the vital ingredient is that of continually weighing and measuring the worth and effect of what we set out to conquer.

Netzach is assigned the element of Fire. Within the energy of Netzach we can identity this Fire as that of longing, desire and the impetus that coerces the creative urge towards manifestation. Creativity in all of its forms, most particularly the arts and nature’s beauties flow from the refined efforts of Netzach. These fire flow strongly through the Natural world and Netzach reaches deeply into Gaia’s womb of creation to draw inspiration from Her living body.

The Sphere of Self-Awareness

The energy of Netzach is one of Consciousness that has come to a place of awareness of its own inherent nature or state of being. Balance or living the place of the middle way can only be achieved when we acknowledge the areas where we over indulge and those areas where effort is lacking. To formulate this discernment requires being fully apprised of our own basic nature. Once this has been established the necessary fine tuning, balancing and bringing to a state of equilibrium can occur. Netzach is the sphere of love, beauty and refinement. It is through the process of refining the parts of self that we can finally acknowledge and truly love the beauty of the resultant outcome. And, that conscious awareness of the newly found self is our place of greatest Victory.

The 22nd Path: Libra and Venus

22nd Path

My fires will burn away what
You have aggressively sought.

I will give way to your power
I will seek your healing
I will come to understand
Your necessary action.

And the Soul that will emerge
Will have steadfastly persevered
Having claimed its victory and
Triumphed over its personal inequity.

The 22nd Path is one of equalizing. The energy of the spheres of connection provides the means to clearly and concisely remove what is excess before it reaches the central core of harmony and synthesis. The second phase of sacrificial release will be imposed by the energy of Tiphareth in its distribution back towards Geburah as the process begins anew. The midpoint of coalescence of the combined energies functions to calibrate what is set forth on flow of offering.

The Planetary/Zodiacal Energy

Venus/Libra

Venus is the ruling planet of the astrological sign of Libra (and Taurus). As we have seen, Venus as ruler of astrological Taurus provides the incentive(why/who) for creating a solid and stable manifest foundation. Wanting a place of security and home for those you love and care for are the primary focus of Taurean energy.

The planet Venus was called Phosphorus by the Greeks, which translates to “Lightbearer” and Nogah in Hebrew and means “The Shiner”. Venus shines most brightly in the sky in the morning. Within the energy of the Tree and acting through the sphere of Netzach, Venus is the light that illuminates and refines what the mind would keep devoid of emotional connection. Its action is one of stimulating the flow of passion and the desire to create in a productive way, by infusing each inventive thought with the fires of carefully applied will.

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

Libra is of the element Air and approaches each new task giving first attention to the architectural thought that will provide the blue prints for completion. As Venus’ energy emerges, the fires of creative inspiration fueled by emotional response take hold and the strivings are now that of producing something of rare and lasting beauty. The same approach of balance and beauty is applied in creating the beautiful mind that balances intellect and logic, rational and inventive thought. If all is successful what issues from this skillful juggling will be the finest representation of what is being expressed and each part will harmoniously be balanced by and with the other.

These energies placed upon the 22nd Path ensure that what is drawn into the synthesized core of Tiphareth has received justifiable cutting away within Geburah. The exacting balance of Libra’s energies work to maintain conscious awareness and preserve what will prove useful as it enters the burner’s of Tiphareth’s Sun.

Another Path of Expression: Venus on the 14th Path

The 14th Path: A Supernal of Communication

14th Path

Remain strong as upholder of the polarity
That is birthed from the seed of force
And held in the womb of endless form.

This is the fire of creation and the
Breath of life that expands and fills
The dark waters where life is held
Waiting for its birthing tides to begin.

The 14th Path holds the honor of providing the base of the spheres of primordial creation (the Supernal Triangle). This path is the space of polarization through the actions of Binah (Feminine) and Chokmah’s (Masculine) energies as the conception of what will be brought into manifestation in the energetic birthing from the Great Mother, Binah. This flow of energetic exchange is directed towards a singular goal of unifying what lay in opposition to produce the space of neutrality where positive and negative give pause and ultimately produce the spark of creative outpour.

The Planetary Energy
Venus

Cool soft lavender,
Blending and merging
Into a sea of powder blue caress
Loving faces with arms outstretched
The butterfly kiss of a child’s soft lips
On rosy red cheeks flushed with love.
Soft, silky panels enfolding gently
Like a lover’s embrace
And vibrant color of passion and
Scent of Sandalwood of soft skin of ecstasy.

The heart yearns to unite with another
And the sweet intoxication
Of a moonlight tryst
Beckons and awaits the paramours.

Kiss, caress, transcendence and
Heart-felt love spilling forth
To all humanity declaring itself
As a magnet of attraction
Desiring nothing but the Beloved.

And who is the “Beloved”
It is the harmonizing energy that
Surrounds it is what captures the
Spirit and carries it aloft
Poised on wings of breath.

The Beloved we all yearn for
Is the shimmering reflection of
Our Higher Self bathed in
The light of Divine embrace
Transformed in the Womb of the Mother
And revealed only when we surrender
To our heartfelt longing.

Read the poem above and allow the images to flow of your own making. This is the energy of the 14th Path in its action as creators.

Tarot Key III – The Empress

stephanie law_dreamscapes3_tarot_the empress_med

Image: Dreamscape Tarot by Stephanie Law

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 IIIThe Empress is the Mother of all life. She sits in quiet repose and strength in the verdant landscape of her own domain. She is the sexual energy that is ripe being both pregnant in her fertility and exquisite in the afterglow of promised union. Placed upon the 14th Path, the Empress offers the vision of what will become and will bear fruit from her union with Chokmah and the manifest and spiritual fruits this union will yield. She is the promise of continued life and expression of that life in all of the elemental worlds over which she reigns supreme.

When we consider the nature of Venus’ energies and Her intended goal of creation, the Empress embodies the wisdom that arises from experience and maturity. She is no longer the flattered ingénue who is easily flattered and anxious to begin the courtship of a romanticized physical journey. She has the composure of selectively and carefully weighing all of the suitor’s gifts before choosing the appropriate vessel to receive the fires of her passionate embrace.

In Conclusion:
As we consider the attributes of Libra and its ruling planet Venus and their impact on the Tree of Life the prominent focus is one of awareness and appreciation of all aspects of the Tree as it seeks to balance its varied nature. The key lay in the responsiveness of desire’s will and the reaction to that desire with catalytic intent. As we come to know more of our wild beauty and connection to nature in all of its permutations, we find the grace of being able to see the beauty in the imperfections.

The ability to apply the finely honed process of carefully weighing the possibilities and stripping away the glamour of unbalanced potential is the gift of discriminating mind that is found in Libra. Its desire to refine through balanced harmony flows through the Tree seeking the source of its inception and the Fires of union that gave it life.

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 vision of creation’s most exquisite form and its desire to share the gift of that expression, we are the manifest product of its own loving nature.

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:

WitchVox: 13 Keys- The Victory of Netzach

The Magickal Pen: Geburah’s Might

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

 

Next Post

Full Moon in Aries- Back to the Beginning

October 8.2014

It is Truly Beautiful – The Sun in Libra

Posted in The Temple of the Sun, The Temple of Venus with tags , , , , , on September 21, 2014 by themagickalpen

Libra Sun

Sun in Libra
9.22.2014
10:29 pm (EDT)

The Autumnal Equinox

Planetary Ruler: Venus

 

It Is Truly Beautiful

It is truly beautiful!
There is a certain
Refinement and grace.

The craftsmanship is expertise
And one can tell that
Great skill and thought
Went into its creation.

You know, they say
That the finest of gold
Was used and each pan
Was polished and leveled
Its inner workings were
Calibrated to the most
Exact measure.

As I think on it- if, I pause
Too long on either extreme
Of matters the agility of my
Mind usually steps in to set
The course straight and bring
The tangential stream back
To center point.

Although, if I linger too long
In the comfort of my mental
Landscape that brings its own
Downpour of disequilibrium.

Yes, it is beautiful this state
Of affairs and the rarest and
Most refined of thought
Is poised and balanced
On the luminescent
Polished scales of mind’s
Elegantly created obelisk.

The Sun transits into the astrological sign of Libra late on the evening of September 22. The balance of the day was spent in the last outpourings of Virgo. The advent of Libra “after hours” begins the process of finishing touches on the work that overzealous Virgo stayed late to prepare.

The astrological sign of Libra is one of the Element of Air and the Cardinal Modality. Its planetary ruler is Venus, planet of refinement, grace, relationships and love in all forms. The natural energy of the Sun, that of shedding great light on whatever is in its spectrum, is now amped up to become the spotlight that shines fully on what needs to be communicated about what deeper information is revealed when one seeks the balance of harmonious and pleasing aesthetic, both physically and spiritually.

This solar month has maximum potential for refining what was more clearly defined in the energy of Virgo. The Libran influence is one of showing us the true beauty held within and the light of the Sun’s outpouring brings attention to the inner and the outer beauty that is held within every action, thought and emotion.

The caution is one of adopting a judgmental attitude and swaying the scales in favor of what has not being carefully weighed for its usefulness or lack of, despite appearances. Because Libra operates from the mental levels, there can be a certain detachment in the formulation of opinions that have rational excuses in support of the final determination. There is also often the compulsion to set very higher standards that may be un-achievable without the support of emotional encouragement and the understanding that the imperfect process can be just as beautiful as the finished product.

Venus is the Ruling Planet of both Taurus and Libra. The energy of Venus is that of beauty, harmony and awakening the emotional self. Venus’ energy upon astrological Taurus was one of providing the motivation for the natural quality of Taurus to provide, protect and establish strong foundations. Its effects on Libra are those of softening and bridging the connection behind mind and heart. Venus’ natural love of beauty and great sense of aesthetic style are enhanced in the energy of Libra. The refinement that is typical of Libran energy is the 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.

For Libra, the ability to actively tap into the collaborative nature of Venus, as its Planetary ruler, insures that the dynamics of balanced relationship (at all levels) will be sought out as the process of making the world a more beautiful experience is crafted by Libra’s will.

Read more about the dynamics of Venus in:
The Temple of Venus
Learning to Love

 

The Element of Air

The energy of Air is that of the Mind and the expression of thoughts and ideas through the vehicle of the mental process. All of the Air signs hold great potential for either being the visionary or the tyrant in how they express what naturally inspired creative invention of mind is conceptualized. The tendency towards being compulsive about what is imagined runs high, much like the winds that seek to keep in a state of movement whatever is caught in their grasp. In the case of Gemini, we saw this compulsion was one of sharing and communication.

In the airiness of Libra, the compulsion is one of final refinement and balanced workings. And, as we will see with Aquarius, the compulsion is one of demanding that all keep pace as the future is revealed by inventive mind. Libra brings this mental energy to a place of synthesis, eloquence and expression in a way that engages the senses. The creativity that flows from the balanced Libran perspective continually weighs the merits of any endeavor. All, being accomplished with an agile mind that has the ability to extract from both points of extreme and rework it into something that inspires greater creativity at all levels.

A Cardinal Modality

As we have already experienced with the Cardinal signs their primary directive is that 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 second of the Cardinal signs was expressed through a Water sign, Cancer and served to stimulate the emotions in a way of pushing the boundaries of these waters out beyond what would hold them hidden in the subconscious. This energy was expressed in the yearning and need to identify what is defined as home and family and that which supports loving and loyal relationships.

We now have arrived at the third of the Cardinal signs, Libra, whose goal is one of stimulating mind and creating new visions of what is possible to be made manifest in the world, when grace and beauty stand at the helm.

Creative mind flows
Like turbulent winds
Seeking only a point
Of balance.

Breath moves and the creation
Of art and music flows from
Inspired mind and spills
Freely onto paper.

Delicate hands reach out
Longingly to balance scales
That strive to reveal the
True value of what
They tenuously contain.

And I stand enraptured
By what you have crafted
From gentle mind and
Loving heart that is
Not bound by minds
Rigid laws.

The Next Step

Knowing how each sign moves to the next and the interaction between each as they evolve towards completion (and threshold of renewal) of the wheel in Pisces tells its own unique story of the astrological wheel. Libra is the seventh sign of the Zodiac. Numerologically, the number Seven (7) relates to the wisdom of accumulated experience that emerges from the harmonious interaction of the Six. Seven speaks to higher learning, the wisdom of the Cosmos and the many paths now available because we have finally the clarity of mind to recognize that they are there. Libra requires an open and broad perspective to do its work of balancing.

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). Now enlivened by the desire to “know”, the healing and nurturing (Cancer- Water) of what no longer serves this goal is brought front and center into the Light of Day (Leo-Fire) to be strengthened as it is readied for the detailed analysis of Virgo (Earth) that seeks to create a new form for its manifestation. Libra (Air) applies the finishing touches to what Virgo has reduced to the most essential components. Using the adaptability and deftness of a mind that can easily calculate and mentally weigh both benefits and detriments, Libra moves with grace to accomplish the work at hand.

At this time of the year, we see the potency of Libra expressed as the space of balance and opportunity for equal effort being expressed. This marks the time of the Equinoxes, Autumnal and Spring, in Northern and Southern Hemispheres respectively. The common denominator is that of equal light and day. One striving towards refining what is needed as further descent into the waning year and introspective action takes hold at the time of the Autumnal equinox. And, the other awakening to the Waxing of the year’s light, and the anticipation of fertile and abundant growth.

It Truly is Beautiful:

This solar month is one of focus on refining what we brought to a deeper level of analysis in Virgo. This month typically marks a settling back into the routine of school, work and memories of summer vacation and spending time outside.

In the chronology of the Zodiac, this is the space of time to set to the task of holding accountability for what has occurred up to this point and what will flow from the tweaking of its expression. This is the energy of the mature man or woman who is ready to assess the measure of their growth thus far. The strengthening and scrutiny exacted by Virgo has paved the way for Libra’s final measure.

The stability and firm foundations that Taurus provided for the adolescent as they learned of the space of testing their impact on the physical world that surrounded them acts as the underpinning s of the now mature adult who has the knowledge of previous relationships and actions to draw upon. This was Venus’ companion expression we experienced in Taurus. The truths that were established as part of that growing process are now ready to be put to further testing and the outcome will be nothing short of spectacular if Venus’ energy is called upon to harmonize and support.

And, so in the spirit of creative Libra, 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 the first time you experienced something that touched you to the very core of your being. Something you found so exquisite in its beauty, that the effect was one of overall calm, centeredness and the desire to know more of the creation of this thing.

As you read through the invocation, think about what each line of reference evokes within you and stimulates your own desire to create, refine and harmonize. What inspired vision of RA’s power is expressed within the words put to paper. This is the power of creativity and its ability to bring about a state of grace and refinement. Use this gift wisely this solar month as we invoke the Solar month in Libra and awaken those fires of RA to enliven each foundation you choose to re-form.

Hymn to RA

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Next Posting: Wednesday, September 24
New Moon in Libra

The Magick of Virgo

Posted in The Temple of the Sun with tags , , , , , , , , on September 16, 2014 by themagickalpen

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The Magick of Virgo is anchored in the realms of the physical and manifest experience. Whatever we apply Virgoan energy towards is going to receive the advantage of adaptation for survival of the fittest tools and most productive outcome. Virgo’s strength lay in its analytical and precise approach to all it is applied to. This means that its energy can be directed towards matters of the mind, heart or body, all remaining under the same gaze of scrutiny that gently removes and reshapes as needed.

The caution is one of becoming overly critical and never satisfied, despite the usefulness of what may be considered less than perfect. With this in mind and the image of the symbol associated with Virgo, the Virgin we can like n this energy to the youthful maiden who finds every fault possible in every suitor and thus denies herself the opportunity for a harmonious relationship. This Virginal quality is not determined by sexual experience, rather by an attitude that blocks all that would support the necessary fertile ground for receiving the seeds of potential for creating something new.

Virgo works directly on what we bring into our lives that is fulfilling, joyful and offers opportunity for the exuberance and even the naivete of youth, so workings that require a fresh, yet analytical and inquisitive approach are best served using Virgo’s steadfastness as the Moon Waxes or continually during the Solar Month of Virgo. Virgo is the master regulator of the Waning phase (Lunar or Solar) with its natural tendencies towards restructuring and release.

Virgo is the second sign of the second cycle of quadrant of Elements in progression around the zodiacal wheel. This is the second of the Earth astrological signs and in the order of progression, Virgo holds the place of foundation that has been refined and organized in a manner that will produce the most effective forms of manifestation. Taurus laid the homey foundations of stable strength of purpose and direction, so Virgo can now weave her magick of redecorating that home of foundation. By the time we reach the third of the Earth signs, Capricorn, everything will be in place so that the footing is sure and firm as the Sea-Goat scales the extremes of physical and manifest experience.

The Gentle Hand of the Virgin

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Virgo as a sign of Mutable Earth Modality provides the quality of flexible expansion. It is this flexibility that offers up the potential for endings and beginnings. Virgo’s gift is the ability to take inventory of what is available as resource, categorize it and then spin it into a useful viable form. We could envision this as the gentle hand that prods movement in places where the convenience and comfort of remaining inert hold us. This is the gentle hand of the beautiful maiden that coaxes us to come out and play; to enjoy the fullest expression of what physical life has to offer and in this state of receptivity change occurs. The finished product of our experience is one who has tasted the pleasures of life and now can be more discerning in what he/she forms as their idealistic expectations.

Solar Month Magick

Enhances the dynamics of assessment and refining based on what has been excavated from deeper probing:

Virgo as the Sixth sign of the Solar Year concerns itself with creating the space of harmony where all can proceed in the most productive way. The Solar Month of Virgo is an excellent time to begin clearing away the clutter that impedes an easy way of navigating through all that you encounter and preparing the way for the next phase of weight and measure. The energy of this Solar month of Virgo next flows into the Air of Libra, the ultimate sign of balance and beauty that as received the finishing touches of a mind that has been carefully and selectively cultivated.

The Virgoan approach can be used for short-term projects, but is most effective for long-term workings. A goal, such as a working to assess the strengths and weaknesses of any given situation would benefit from beginning its cycle during the Solar Month of Virgo.

Similar to the New, Full and Waning cycles of the Lunar Month, beginning the working in the Solar Month of Virgo would be the first phase of examining each component that comprises the whole of who you are. This may take the form of sitting quietly and journaling those strengths and weaknesses you believe yourself to possess. You would repeat this practice several times during the month, each time making note of how the balance or content of that list may change and what parts of you are missing from this finely calculated equation. As you move through the Solar month you will begin to have a truer picture of what serves as your anchor of foundation and how these serve to allow you more freedom in your expression and interactions with others.

Using the cycle of Earth and those astrological signs of that element the next point of bolstering the energy would be during Capricorn’s flow. The Solar Month of Capricorn offers a new burst of energetic start to what you have begun of the culling process in mutable Virgo. This action builds foundations that aspire towards more and reach deeply into the core anchors you have established as you begin to carefully tread those paths of further reshaping on the ascent of progress forward.
The fixed stability of Taurus, serves to provide a space of coalescing and synthesizing strengthening. The firming up of this foundation and seeing the final product of your efforts come to stable manifestation is the ultimate goal from which this never-ending process of self-analysis can begin anew.

Lunar Magick: Fertile Earth
rich soil

Engages the seeding of the emotional landscape with only the most viable product that can pass the test of survival:

Use of Lunar energy in the astrological sign of Virgo provides the energetic principle of cultivating and streamlining our emotional outpour towards more fruitful experience. If worked in a methodical manner the seas of emotional flow become rich and full of potential ad the life that is carried within teems in abundance.

Workings that require careful study and movement through what could be turbulent waters make use of the Virgoan energy in a highly collaborative way. Workings that encourage diving deeper below the superficiality of emotional response and facing the faulty foundations that have created this illusory state can be crafted to be potent and effective under the Virgin’s watchful eye.

The New Moon of Virgo could be used to gently assess what holds you prisoner in your emotional landscape and prevents for healthy interactions. Intention of carefully unraveling the spaces of knotting and barrier for smooth and ease of movement will loosen the grip of your own emotional sensors. See this process as one of nurturing with intent to reveal, not to unjustly critique and falsely lay blame. Try to be as objective and kind to yourself through this process as you would gladly to be another. Virgo will do her job regardless and as we know the gentle approach is one that removes those barriers of self-defense that then enable deeper probing.

The Full Moon of Virgo would be the time of having moved to a space of objective conclusion about what and where those barriers are. This would also be the time of making connections. Making connections that serve to inform your decision-making abilities and afford you the opportunity to be benevolent in what is released and strong in what you wish to anchor more deeply. This is also the space of further analysis and planning for what the desired outcome may be if you continue on this course. The goal is one of greater discernment; now is the time to envision what, where and how that outplays.

The energy of the Waning Moon in Virgo would be the final stage of filter and process. This is the space where foundations of what you wish to be so have been finely assessed, and further bolstered as the Moon’s energy peaked in fullness. Emotional attachments to non-supportive actions, thoughts and energies have been fully loosened and the barriers of their knots are no longer viable. A final and gentle sweeping away of the loose ends and remnants that leave less than a beautifully crafted frame of intent is all that is needed. And, in the darkened space of this newly tilled soil, you feel the germination of new life beginning and transformation is at hand.

Some Additional Astrological properties of Virgo

Keywords: Analysis, Discrimination, Detailed Structure

The Archetype: The Craftsman is the archetype associated with Virgo. This represents the ability of Virgo to create and refine using calculated methods and produce something of beauty and rare quality. Think of the clockmaker and the precision that is required in working with tiny parts that must be precisely and accurately aligned one to the other. The Craftsman also presents a level of detail and skill that requires patience. This energy of slow and steady progress is one that sets up the foundations for more elaborate design and expression to be anchored by.

If we think on those who fall into this category, passion for whatever they are producing is the motivating force that ensures the work will be a labor of love. This is the aspect of the Virgin. Virginal not because she has never enjoyed the pleasures of sex, but open and receptive in her attitude of approaching each experience as though it were the first. This is precisely the energy needed for creating the works of beauty that only a craftsman whose focus is the intention of creating something consistent in its quality and unique in its design.

Rules Astrological House:

The 6th House of the Zodiac, the House of Service

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). The Fourth House has taught the lessons of home and family; commitment and unconditional love for who we are. The Fifth House we are now ready to emerge from the security of friends and family and stand courageously in the Light of the choices we have made that have crafted this self. Arriving, now at the Sixth House we are ready to give, to serve, to cultivate and to learn the lessons of harmonious interaction.

We have stood at the place of center and basked in the light of all responding to the magnetism we possess. Now, we turn that ability towards the benefit of others. We use that awareness of self and the recognition of its presence by others to till and prepare the fields of new growth that will feed their hunger for self-knowledge. The Sixth House is where we can express that strength of fertile mind, heart and body and re-shape it to our precise expectations.

Color:

The colors of Rich Browns and Earthy Greens are well suited to Virgo’s energy. She is the maiden who is fertile in her form and prolific in her ability to weed and sort to prepare the ground for seeds that will provide true abundance. This is the damp, most soil whose fragrance is rich and evokes images of quickening within. This is also the green of the freshest and newest growths that shoot up from the loamy earth, straining upwards towards Father Sun.

The Precision of Light: Leo to Virgo

Sun beats down relentless
In its need to uphold.

Sun waxes high as noon
Carves out exacting light
That exposes and lays all bare.

Sun streams energy and vitality
And purpose deftly wields the
Scythe that cuts away.

Sun releases its hold and
Chill of air calls out seeking
The embrace of Virgin’s
Delicately curved arms.

Sun slips deep into the fold of
Maiden Earth’s horizon
As all is forever changed
By her determined hand and
Selective eye that weaves through
The cloak of night revealing
The delicate beauty of her fertility
And grace of her re-forming.

Virgo is the Sixth sign of the Zodiac:

Having found the courage and boldness of Leo, Virgo is now ready to become the re-former of what has been revealed under Leo’s glaring light. Virgo is the second of the Earth signs and as such brings the promise of crafting what will be of most use and ultimately greatest service. Additionally it has received the stability of Fixed Leo, as the steady and reliable Father whose watchful eye reaches far lighting the way as he synthesizes what emerges as the expansive energy of a Daughter who wishes to create and reshape what is at hand.

Seasonally, under the scrutiny of Virgo’s energy we have reaped the rewards of the First Harvest and the selection of only what is the most usable and sustainable of food stores (Northern Hemisphere) or anticipating the quickly approaching pregnant pause of the Spring Equinox (Southern Hemisphere) and the promise of newly growing life. Both of these events concern themselves with the process of selection. Choosing what will bring about an abundant harvest and weeding through what is emerging so that only the most viable will be nurtured.

In its highest expression Virgo’s energies represent the point of knowing what is an appropriate sacrifice, and what is unproductive elimination. These are the continuation of the lessons of self-control begun in Leo’s domain, and the exertion of that will and power is brought into the reality of the need for discernment for the continuance of fertile and strong ground for planting.

We have reached the mid-point in the Solar Year and the 12 Houses of the Astrological signs. Each prior to this point has concerned itself with those aspects of our being that cultivate sense of self (Aries); sense of others (Taurus); expression of ourselves (Gemini); nurturing what we hold close to our hearts (Cancer); moving into our place of power (Leo) and finally claiming responsibility for taking a closer look at who we have become (Virgo).

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.

Resources

Other Posts to Re-read:

 

Temple of the Sun- Virgo:

New Moon in Virgo: What Sort Are You?

Let Me Break It Down

Analyze This: Full Moon in Virgo

New Moon in Virgo: Analysis and Building

Temple of the Moon Postings:
Day Six: Still Waters All Around Me! – Waxing Moon in Virgo

Day Five: Let Me Break It Down – Waxing Moon in Virgo

Day Four: Cubism – Waxing Moon in Virgo

 

Next Post
Saturday, September 22.2014

Temple of the Sun: Transit into Libra
The Autumnal Equinox

Full Moon in Pisces: The Analytical Heart

Posted in Auspicious Days, Full Moon, Lunar, The Temple of the Sun with tags , , , , , , , , , , , , on September 8, 2014 by themagickalpen

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Image Credit: Sadness of Gaia by Josephine Wall

September 8.2014
Full Moon in Pisces
9:38 p.m. (EDT)

Sun in Virgo

The opposition of astrological energy that naturally occurs during a Full Moon phase is the tug of war between what appear to be opposing energies. At the time of this Full Moon the Solar energy is expressed by an astrological sign whose prime directive is that of categorizing and breaking down the flaws of any process (Virgo) and the opposing energy of overflowing compassion and deep understanding that makes allowances for those imperfections which is found in the astrological sign of Pisces.

This Full Moon is called the Harvest Moon. According to the Farmer’s Almanac…

“This full moon’s name is attributed to Native Americans because it marked when corn was supposed to be harvested. Most often, the September full moon is actually the Harvest Moon, which is the full Moon that occurs closest to the autumn equinox. In two years out of three, the Harvest Moon comes in September, but in some years it occurs in October. At the peak of harvest, farmers can work late into the night by the light of this Moon. Usually the full Moon rises an average of 50 minutes later each night, but for the few nights around the Harvest Moon, the Moon seems to rise at nearly the same time each night: just 25 to 30 minutes later across the U.S., and only 10 to 20 minutes later for much of Canada and Europe. Corn, pumpkins, squash, beans, and wild rice the chief Indian staples are now ready for gathering.”

If we think of this harvesting energy as it applies to the work we do within our personal place of harvest, the Full Moon in Pisces (with the strength of the Sun in Virgo) allows us to apply the lessons of grace and understanding as we harvest what we wish to sustain us. This is the goal of arriving at a place of heart-centered scrutiny.

This Full moon is also the closest to the Autumnal Equinox and holds the keys to refining what we will place upon the pause of balance that marks the sharing of equal hours of light and dark. If we choose carefully (Virgo) our intent of focus and use the wisdom and discernment of an intuitively guided heart (Pisces) our efforts in the world of Light/Day and the reserves we hold in the stores of Darkness/Night will fuel and support the work that lay ahead as we descend deeper into the waning of the Year.

Another clue to the potency of this Full Moon’s dynamics lays within the modality of expression that Virgo and Pisces represent. Both are of the Mutable modality, which is flexible and expansive in its expression as it seeks the threshold of endings and provides the fertile space for the next cycle of beginnings. Additionally, Virgo is of the Earth element and Pisces of the Water. One serves as the container (Virgo) of receipt and boundary that is reshaped anew by the deep waters (Pisces) that seek to gently guide towards the Gates of the mysteries of a more heart-centered space of discernment. Envision this:

The carefully harvested (Virgo) ground of earth’s yielding foundation has been heated and enlivened by Father Sun’s rays of light (Sun in Virgo). As night descends, there is a stillness of anticipated intention, as all know Mother Moon will soon rise in all of her glory. The first rays of moon-beam stretch seeking out every crevice like long flowing fingers across the earth. These flow like rivulets of water moving across the expanse of land. You stand watching this gentle yet persistent flow of moonlight and your heart is filled with love and the deep understanding (Moon in Pisces) of the cycles and energy of Sun and Moon.

Soon, everything you see around you is flooded by the Light and Fullness of the Moon’s glow. All is bathed in this flowing sea of outpouring. All is healed by its presence. All is lifted upon the waters that rise towards the moon-lit sky of night. The light ebbs and flows as the tides and cloud cover or shadow of tree or building momentarily offer shadow. You wait in this silent glow and feel the energy move through you, awakening all of the flowing waters of emotional expression and insight within. You stand holding the flame of sun’s fire deep at your core and the waters seek the depths of that fiery furnace. Water and Fire, breath of Air and in-spiration move as one and the dynamic electrical charge that signals the death of this moment in time and the heralding of the next cycle that will give birth to the beginning of a quickened and changed you continue their course.

You breathe deeply into each cycle of this ebb and flow of rising waters and the opening of a more compassionate heart as the night gives way to the dawning of a new day of Solar refinement and the opportunity to once again carefully harvest what will feel the expansive reach of Luna’s Pisces Moon.

Moon Conjunct Neptune 5:09am

As we know the Moon brings depth to our emotional inner-scape and Neptune – the ruling planet of astrological Pisces fills the coffers of heart-centered engagement to full capacity – and then some. Early this evening, the Moon and Neptune will form an aspect of conjunction. A conjunction occurs when two planets are within 0-10-degrees of each other (sharing the same astrological sign and in very close proximity to one another). It is often considered to be the most powerful aspect because of the intensity of support for the involved planets, one to the other. Each acts as a support (positive or negative) to the other, which intensifies the effects of each individually towards goal of the collaborative power burst.

With the conjunction of the Moon (water/emotions/intuitive energy) in an astrological sign of great emotional depth and the support of Neptune (water/deep connection at the subconscious level) we have opportunity to draw upon our intuitive nature to guide the process of what we wish to bring to the fullness of emotional expression. The caution would be one of over-flooding the grounds that have been carefully prepared (Sun in Virgo) during this Solar Month. Reach deeply into these waters but allow yourself to surrender to where and how deeply they take you. Read more about the Neptune Retrograde here:

Lifting the Veil: Neptune Retrograde

 

The Analytical Heart

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This evening our coven will honor the Full Moon in Pisces as we sit and scry into the flames of an outdoor fire pit. The Harvest Moon will shine brightly overhead as we open to the flow of heart and the depths of guidance and understanding that flow as the waters of Goddess within us. As we look into the heart of the flames the dross and lack of clarity will be burned away as Solar fire and Virgo’s hand of the maiden gently unravels the strands of light that block and impede our opening. We will call forth the analytical heart that remains steadfast in its understanding and flexible in its desire to create fertile ground for growth. And, as what has previously stood as foundation breaks down, cracks and etches a new pattern of process, the analytical heart of verdant life will remain as the source of this productive change.

 

Resources and Reflections

Pisces in Related Posts:

Full Moon in Pisces- 2013 

The Temple of the Moon:

Waning Moon in Pisces

Day Eighteen: Meet Me at the Water’s Edge – Waning Moon in Pisces

Day Seventeen: Looking for Compassion – Waning Moon in Pisces

 

 

Next Post:

Temple of the Sun- Virgo

The Magick of Virgo

Sun in Virgo – The Details of the Tree

Posted in The Temple of Mercury, The Temple of the Sun, Uncategorized with tags , , , , , on August 31, 2014 by themagickalpen

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

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

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

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

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

Virgo and Mercury on the Tree

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

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

Hod (Mercury) and Tiphareth (Sun)
Virgo Master Tree

Tiphareth and the Sun

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

Hod: The Sphere of Pure Mind

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Sphere of Communication

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

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

The Temple of Mercury

The 20th Path: Virgo and Mercury

20th Path

My physical form glows from
The discipline of my practice.

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

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

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

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

The Planetary/Zodiacal Energy
Mercury/Virgo

Mercury is the ruling planet of the astrological sign of Virgo. In its expression of interaction with Virgo, communication is a result of careful analysis and applied categorization of its effects in manifest form.

Virgo is of the element Earth and provides the foundation strength that is the base of the highest mountain or the deep reaching roots of the tallest tree. It maintains the structure based upon planning and exacting only what is needed in the precise amounts so that all is orderly.

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

Another Path of Expression: Mercury on the 12th Path

The 12th Path: A Supernal of Communication

12thPath

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

The 12th Path, just as the 11th Path, serves as the beginning of opening the vessel that will become the incubator of what the Divine desires to manifest. Here we have the connection to the feminine principle of collective form and the place from which the combination of seed and ovum can emerge in descent towards final manifest form. This act of conception is the dividing of the cells of the singular whole in order to prepare the waters of quickening.

The Planetary Energy
Mercury

The planet Mercury is typified by its communicative style, duality and adaptable persona. This energy is dynamic and profound in what it can draw to itself and what it can ultimately create from the information gathered. Placed upon the 12th Path, Mercury presents as the informant, ready to adapt to what is needed as the creative process takes hold within Binah’s womb as the Godhead of Kether oversees and modifies to insure the viable continuation of its emanation.

The Magician

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

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

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

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

In Conclusion:

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

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

As the light of Tiphareth (Sun) shines brightly and radiates its vision of magnetic attraction throughout the multilayered branches of a tree that reaches far and wide in its expanse and impact we are reminded that in this light of curiosity and the inquisitive seeker bringing the light of newly informed foundation to all who will step upon its broad base of knowledge.

Resources:

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

The Magickal Pen: Geburah’s Might

WitchVox: 13 Keys: TheBeauty of Tiphareth

13 Keys to the Qabalistic Tree of Life

Reading:
The Inner Chamber Series. R. Fennelly
Volume One: It’s Written in the Stars (2013)
Volume Two: Poetry of the Spheres (2013)
Volume Three: Awakening the Paths (2014)
Order at author’s website: Robin Fennelly

What Sort Are You? New Moon in Virgo

Posted in Auspicious Days, Esbat, New Moon, Retrogrades, The Temple of the Sun with tags , , , , , , on August 25, 2014 by themagickalpen

Circle

August 25.2014

New Moon in Virgo
10:13 am (EDT)

Sun in Virgo

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

The collaborative efforts of the Sun and Moon offer the exchange of transformative (Sun) fires held in the foundations of Mother Moon’s flow. Virgo’s energy provides the vessel of container that offers the ability to sift and sort through what fills its. The New Moon is the first phase of that process and as the Moon and Sun Wax in energy each new step reveals another layer to be processed. When we reach the Fullness of the Moon’s energy all that has gathered from that process has been readied for the heart-centered flow of the Pisces Full Moon.

The energy of Virgo is one of defining through the process of analysis and a Virgo New Moon offers the opportunity to sift through our emotional waters and filter in a purposeful way that reveals the nuggets of Gold hidden within. Add the dynamic of the Sun’s energy and we have the support of the masculine and feminine principles, collaboratively working together in support of manifesting a stable foundation that is both prosperous and abundant. This is the earthy quality of Virgo and the ability to draw from its resources concrete and useable products.

The energy of the New Moon expressed through this process of testing and analyzing offers the opportunity to align heart and what we “feel” about whatever the Virgo energy is focused upon as an additional measure of its viability before it is broken down into the parts that become the sum total of a new whole.

Let’s Talk About It

Mercury, the planet of communication is also in the astrological sign of Virgo. The Virgoan energy creates a communication style that is riddled with detail. And, I do mean “riddled”. This gives the dynamic of lots of information to be shared about a singular query. So much so, that the answer may seem to be so buried and the means by which it is communicated so muddled by facts and statistics that it’s difficult to receive the simpler message.

More Layers of Detail

The three outer planets, Uranus, Neptune and Pluto remain retrograde. These are the planets that were discovered in more modern times and are considered to be the higher amplifications (esoteric expression) of three of the Seven Elder Planets:

Electrically Charged Uranus in Fiery Aries adds dynamic awareness to talkative and naturally head-strong Mercury

The veiled Watery depths of Neptune (and His Trident of Fire) in Pisces lifts the loving refinement of Venus to a place of compassion

Pluto in Earthy Capricorn finds the cyclical wisdom of peace and regeneration in the brutality of Mars’ aggression and wielding of death’s mark

Uranus has been slowly and incrementally turning up the volume on our neurological receptors. With the advent of this New Moon, the ability to concretely hone in on what needs the closer scrutiny of Virgo’s New Moon may seem like a moving target. Take some deep breaths and consciously slow down the approach. The Moon as She begins her phase of Waxing will offer the healing waters that can be used to quiet this frenetic energy. The key here is finding the balance between productive stimulation that calls us to action aiding Virgo’s need to analyze and giving body and mind the adequate rest and relaxation that will prevent the process from overwhelming.

Neptune provides the gift of being compassionate and gentle with ourselves as we peel back the layers of all aspects of ourselves with Virgo’s assistance. Tap into these deeper waters of the emotional self with the attitude of gifting yourself with the grace and intuitive sight to see clearly and respond appropriately to what is reveled in this journey of excavation.

The Pluto retrograde in the astrological sign of Capricorn continues its efforts to bring into realization the mistakes and successes of past efforts. The goal is one of strengthening what moves forward from this point in a way that will insure that the resultant action taken will stand the test of successfully navigating future challenges. Pluto, in its form as the planet associated with Death and ancestral knowledge offers great potential for acceptance of the frailty of what we build if we only see its permanence defined in the present moment. The gift of Death is in the ability to reach back into the reserves of what created the being that we currently are and realize the impermanence of that vision as ever changing and reforming into what is continually in the process of being birthed anew.

The opportunity during this Virgo New Moon and as the Sun also waxes in strength under Virgo’s scrutiny lay in being able to access the Plutonian wisdom of all time and all space and use this as an additional layer of support as Virgo goes about its work of refining. Capricorn is an Earth sign very much aligned with the mind-space of physical and spiritual vessel of self and can serve to inform more deeply the space of “between” what we have as past learning and what we will become. This is the space of the present where we are able to make the adjustments needed.

The slowing of their orbits and seeming pause invokes a vision of being under the watchful gaze of developed mind (Uranus), heart (Neptune) and Will (Mars) to act. I would encourage you to re-read the posts about Uranus and Neptune’s Retrogrades.

Uranus Retrograde: Deflecting the Light

Lifting the Veil: Neptune Retrograde

What Sort Are You?

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Take some time on the eve of this New Moon to sort through how you define yourself in the physical world. What are your strengths? What would you like to bolster and strengthen? Writing it down gives your impressions a concrete and tactile energy as the words manifest on the paper.

Now, look at what you have written and as you go through each trait, pause and allow your feelings (Moon) to settle in around what that trait is. This is the narrowing down process. When you’ve gone through each thing, select one that you would like most to really dig a deeply into and cultivate. This will be the focus of your intent of working as you move through the Solar Month.

Sit in quiet reflection and begin to allow yourself to open responsively, ready to take a closer look at the trait you have selected. As you move through this month, the energy waxing toward the Full Moon, spend some time each day peeling back the layers that comprise this trait and being open to the opportunities that may present that enable you to express this trait in a deeper way.

The process would look something like this:

One of the characteristics I would like to explore more deeply and refine is my impatience. I move and think very quickly and at times become (unjustly) annoyed when everyone else does not keep pace. As I sit under Virgo’s New Moon and make this the focus of my efforts, I am going to analyze why I choose to respond in this way. I would also be considering how it may make other’s feel when I respond impatiently. As I move through the Solar Month, I will continue to explore this response and pause and make note whenever I perceive myself to be impatient.

As I sit in my daily meditation, I will revisit this state of impatience and identify what prompted it, analyze I this was an appropriate response or simply me reverting to natural tendency. I will incrementally and purposefully gather this information and with each addition to what I come to know about the reasons for my response in this way, I will be able to fine tune how and when to use it in a productive way.

An Additional Note for Consideration:

Mars (assertion and action) is conjunct (working in collaborative support) Saturn (order and) structure today (3:30 p.m.). This would be an optimal time to use this energy of action in an orderly and structured way as an adjunct to the already very methodical Virgo. Whatever you choose to sift and sort through will be supported by taking the action needed to reestablish order as it is re-assembled by Virgo’s grace.

 

Read More About Virgo Here:

Analysis and Building- New Moon in Virgo

Analyze This! Full Moon in Virgo

 

Temple of the Moon Postings:
Day Six: Still Waters All Around Me! – Waxing Moon in Virgo

Day Five: Let Me Break It Down – Waxing Moon in Virgo

Day Four: Cubism – Waxing Moon in Virgo

 

Next Post:
Sun in Virgo – Details of the Tree
Sunday, August 31.2014

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