Archive for Tuarus

The Magick of Taurus

Posted in Lunar, Magick, The Temple of the Moon, The Temple of the Sun with tags , , , , , , , , , , , on May 6, 2014 by themagickalpen

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

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

Solar Month Magick

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lunar Magick

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

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

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

Some Additional Astrological properties of Taurus

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

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

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

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

Connection and Flow: Aries to Taurus

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

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

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

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

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

Other Posts to Re-read:

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

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

Next Post:

Full Moon in Scorpio
5.14.2014

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

Posted in Auspicious Days, New Moon, The Temple of the Sun with tags , , , , , , , , , on April 29, 2014 by themagickalpen

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

April 29.2014
2:14 am (EDT)

New Moon in Taurus

Sun in Taurus

Solar Eclipse

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

The Solar Eclipse

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Credit: Space Telescope Science Institute

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

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Credit: MrEclipse.com

The Winged Bull

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

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

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

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

The New Moon of Earth’s Lofty Delights

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

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

Photo Credit: Space Telescope Science Institute

Graphic of Solar Eclipse Geometry: MrEclipse.com

A Fiercely Beating Heart: The Sun in Taurus

Posted in Magick, Solar, The Temple of the Sun, Uncategorized with tags , , , , , on April 19, 2014 by themagickalpen

Temple of Sun-Taurus
Sun in Taurus

4.19.2014
11:56pm (EDT)

Planetary Ruler: Venus

A Fiercely Beating Heart

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Element of Earth

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

A Fixed Modality

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

Hold steady
Stand strong
Be the container.

Hold fast the
Energy that pours
Forth relentlessly.

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

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

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

The Next Step

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

Venus is the Ruling Planet of Taurus. The energy of Venus is that of beauty, harmony and awakening the emotional self. It is the heart that yearns for romance and connection. This energy supports social interaction and the overwhelming goal is to connect at a deep and often intimate level with those of our choosing. A natural love of beauty and great sense of aesthetic style enhance the home life and material endeavors of Taurus.

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

Preparing the Way

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

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

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

A Fiercely Beating Heart

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

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

Hymn to RA

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Next Posting: Sunday, April 26th.

Sun in Taurus: A Place of Anchor on the Tree

The Temple of Venus – Last Call for Love!

Posted in The Temple of Venus, Uncategorized, Venus with tags , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , on December 27, 2013 by themagickalpen

Venus ClipImage1

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

Anything requiring harmony, balance and compassion:

• Relationships

• Finances

• Jobs

• Health

Some keywords for consideration:

• Matters of the Heart

• Structure

• Refinement

• Stability

• Values

• Balance

• Creativity

• Inspiration

• Justice

• Fertility

Daily Magick:

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

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

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

Solar/Lunar Magick:

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

Solar Magick

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

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

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

Lunar Magick

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

Waxing and Waning

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Full Moon in Taurus – Stand By Me

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

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

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

Day 22 of Temple of the Moon- Holding Ground

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

Tarot:

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

Key 3- The Empress

My children are many and I tend them

with loving care.

My wisdom born in the belly of the earth.

Within its mantle I sit in gentle repose.

 

 I am fertility and creation

and through all that you see

I exert my natural will.

 

 I am harmony and within nine stellar gates will

I open the radiance of light

held in my mental abode

 

 I hold the key to love’s radiance and beauty

moves like water through

the verdant splendor

of my domain. 

Empress

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

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

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Energetic and Healing Practice:

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

The Hands- Mudras

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

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

VENUS LOCK  MUDRA  (2)

How:

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

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

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

Planet: Venus; sexuality, sensuality and balance.

venus-mudra-300x225

Healing Work 

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

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

Venus Man

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

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

Auspicious Occasions:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Resources:

1. The Secrets of Yoga

2.The Healer’s Journal

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

Upcoming:

Wednesday – January 1.2014 – New Moon in Capricorn

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

Day Twenty-Three: Go Quietly into the Night

Posted in Esbat, Lunar, Magick, Moon Tide, The Temple of the Moon with tags , , , , , , , , , , on July 30, 2013 by themagickalpen

July 30

Waning Moon/Void of Course Day

Sun in Leo

Posted during the Planetary Hour of the Sun

Screen Shot 2013-07-30 at 1.53.55 PM

The moon went void today at 11:58am leaving the sign of Taurus behind and preparing to enter the astrological sign of Gemini tomorrow morning at 11:42am. Going with the flow today and not expecting anything, nor pushing anything to happen.  The tides will flow as they may and sink in where they need to make new inroads.

As promised today, I am going to use the Sun’s light of Leo and offer some information about the Planetary Days and Hours.

For the most part these references are used most frequently for enhancing magickal workings.  The thought being that each of the days has a planet whose energies are in abundance, more easily accessible and align with one of the seven days.  Additionally, the day is further broken down into approx. hourly segments with each of the seven planets holding sway on a particular hour during that day.  Using both may seem like a lot of trouble to coordinate but if you have a goal that needs an amped up boost of specific energy knowing the order and energies associated throughout and on a given day can further along the energetic flow.

This formulary is based upon the ancient Chaldean system of ordering what are considered the Seven Elder planets. These Elder were those planets that were acknowledged before the discovery of the three newer planets- Uranus- Neptune and Pluto and include:

Sunday = Sun

Monday = Moon

Tuesday = Mars

Wednesday = Mercury

Thursday = Jupiter

Friday = Venus

Saturday = Saturn

The Planetary Hours:

The planetary hours follow the same order of the planets with the first (aprox.) hour of each day ruled by the same planet that rules that day.  The remainder of the hours follow the order of those planets that follow sequentially and repeat until arriving at sunrise of the next morning.  You’ll note that I have approximate for the hours as they begin at the time of sunrise for each day.  Therefore, the times vary from day to day rather than being a concrete 5:00am – 6:00am, 7:00am – 8:00am and so on.

The order would look something like this, with variations in time:

Sunday: Sun – Moon – Mars – Mercury – Jupiter – Venus – Saturn…. repeat all

Monday: Moon – Mars – Mercury – Jupiter – Venus – Saturn – Sun… repeat all

Tuesday: Mars – Mercury – Jupiter – Venus – Saturn – Sun – Moon… repeat all

Wednesday: Mercury – Jupiter – Venus – Saturn – Sun – Moon – Mars… repeat all

Thursday: Jupiter – Venus – Saturn – Sun – Moon – Mars – Mercury… repeat all

Friday: Venus – Saturn – Sun – Moon – Mars – Mercury – Jupiter… repeat all

Saturday: Saturn – Sun – Moon – Mars – Mercury – Jupiter – Venus… repeat all

This can make it a bit tricky to calculate and keep track of, although not impossible to do. I use an online calculator.

The Planetary Energies:

So, how would you use these planetary energies?  This will be the topic of future focus Temples of the specific planets, but to get you started here are a few key words that are associated with each planet’s energy and influence.

SUN:  WILL- Strengthening, illuminating, masculine in dynamics (not necessarily in form hence Solar Female Deities), enlivening and catalytic spark.

MOON:  EMOTIONS- Nurturing, intuitive, feminine in dynamics (not necessarily in form hence Lunar Male Deities), flowing, forming and deepening.

MARS:   ACTION- Assertiveness, aggression, change, release, renewal, active healing.

MERCURY:   MOVEMENT- Communication, duality, exchange, reasoning and capacity for understanding.

JUPITER:   FLEXIBILITY- Expansion, growth, abundance, prosperity  and visionary.

VENUS:   REFINEMENT- Balance, relationships, agreement, beauty and aesthetics.

SATURN:   ORDER- Structure, control, time, rigidity and change through force of pressure.

Putting it all together:  This probably seems a bit complex if you are not familiar with some of the basics, but there is great benefit in taking the time to attune to these energies and then applying as needed.  This is a little story I wove for myself when learning about the planetary days and their energies.

Sunday is my day for preparing for what needs to be accomplished for the week. I will rest and relax to strengthen myself for the demands of the week and allow those things that will need my attention to be brought to light.  Monday is the start of my work week and therefore needs me to be at my best emotionally and to be attentive to how I want my week to flow.  I will be flexible in what tasks present and remain open to the opportunities for me to refine my emotional engagements.  Tuesday I feel primed and ready to tackle whatever comes my way.  I already have one day of work behind me and successfully navigated, so I will assert myself where necessary to ensure that extra responsibilities are not unfairly put upon me.  Wednesday is mid-week and now I am ready to socialize. Wanted the shelter of easing into my work week on Monday.  Tested out the waters of speaking up on Tuesday. So, now I am ready to communicate and make sure that everyone is on the same page in what remains to be one for a successful week. If managed well, I won’t be overbearing or ineffective! Thursday starts the point of total flexibility and ease of shifting into what may have gone overlooked in the first part of the week. I am going to breathe into each task at hand and see how much flexibility it and I have. If possible, I will also try to look ahead at what may creep up unexpectedly and plan a course of action.  Friday is here! Last day of the work week and still need to maintain the balance of remaining focused on my work duties and eagerness for the weekend.  So, I am going to fine tune how I proceed through this day- don’t want to have to work overtime and don’t ant to rush through and be counting down those last hours or minutes.  Slow and steady with grace and ease, that’s my plan to have a beautiful end of the week. Saturday! Woo hoo I made it through the work week. But, only two days to kick back. Ah actually only 1 and three-quarters since I will be planning my next week on Sunday evening.  I need to make some fun plans for today.  And, then have a back-up if they don’t work out and I feel like I’ve wasted my day off.  There is never enough time to relax before I’m thinking about work again. OK, loosen up the reigns a bit and let the day flow of its own accord. Maybe time will stretch if I do this.  LOL!

A Simple Beginning:

Prosperity and Abundance:

To draw abundance and prosperity to you, find the planetary hour of Jupiter on a Thursday (Planetary day of Jupiter).  During that time, light a candle, visualize yourself as having the prosperity needed for positive outcome. Hold that image concretely in your mind and allow that energy to expand and include all of your endeavors. Note that although Jupiter is often associated with financial prosperity, the expansive quality of Jupiter works upon all manner of things you wish to grow; relationships, creative endeavors, and more.

Bolstering and Renewing Your Physical Strength:

Find the planetary hour of the Sun on a Sunday, the Planetary day of the Sun.  Light a candle or sit in the light of sun and draw that energy into your central core.  Envision yourself as lit by the Sun from within and see that light of health and vitality expanding outward like rays of the Sun.

Be creative and let intuition be your guide.  The brief descriptions I gave about each of the planets barely scratches the surface and with all things magickal there are hidden modifiers and subtleties that don’t always make for hard and fast rules about assignment.

sleeping-camping-1

Image: National Parks

Resources:   Planetary Hours Calculator

PC/MAC- Lunarium

Based in the UK, so be sure to change the location every day.  Good because you can plan ahead and print out the days hours in advance.

They also have an app called Hours that is available for Android and Iphone

Day Twenty-Two: Holding Ground

Posted in Esbat, Lunar, Magick, Moon Tide, The Temple of the Moon with tags , , , , , , , , , on July 29, 2013 by themagickalpen

July 29

Waning Moon in Taurus

Sun in Leo

July 29

The Moon transited into the astrological sign of Taurus early this morning at 12:43am.  It remains in the sign throughout the night and until 11:58a.m. tomorrow morning.  Taurus is of the Fixed (structure and stabilizing) modality and the Earth (foundational, manifest)  element.  Taurus energy is typified by physical pursuits, finances, responsibility and holding firmly onto what you see as the survival support systems you have created- whether they are currently productive or not.  This is the energy of immovable fixed manifest form- think perhaps of a mountain that can neither be scaled because it is so insurmountable, nor gone around because the girth is miles in expanse. This is also the energy that if applied to our emotions, can be the great support of return that nurtures and spurs us on towards achieving great things if the necessary shifts and balances are applied.

Today’s energy felt cumbersome and weighty. And, the moving fluidly through the void of course came to an abrupt stop as those waters reached the edge of banked up ground.  I think cause I didn’t remain quite as flexible as I had hoped. I realized after thinking through some feelings I had yesterday that were a return to the usual pattens of insecurity and self-doubt, that I can be relentless and stubborn in my holding onto what makes me feel crappy.  It’s like the scene you keep replaying in your mind that scares the crap out of you, but somehow you enjoy being out into that state of disarray.

Today is Monday, or Moon day (in assignment of the planetary rulers of each of the seven days). So double dose of the lunar energies; which might account for my perception of heaviness.  The grounding quality of earth is factored in with Taurus so I’m thinking of the energy of Earth of Water.  The manifest physical container holding gallons of water exerting pressure on that container by sheer mass and volume from the inside. And, of course the polarized pressure holding steady the barrier.  This is where caution must be exercised because if you want more water to be added and productively held, the physical container has to be flexible and adaptable enough to expand in proportion.  If not, and everything remains rigid in the structure of this physical container you have choice of not adding anymore water, voluntarily releasing some of thee water or allowing the waters to overflow spilling all that you had hoped to preserve in a non-productive way.

So I used the afternoon to really feel the strength that this heaviness has. And, making choie not to add unnecessarily to the produce but to really look at what is already accumulated and trying to get my attention.  Not oppressive, but solid, strong and supportive, if I allow the tiny shoots of what I have been working through in my lunar self to reach up through. I want to take this image into my dreamscape tonight and tend and prune using the waning strength what is crowding out the roots that are reaching deep into the soil to anchor firmly.

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

I will stand my ground in
defense of the truths I perceive.

And, if provoked will
charge with intent and
precise aim as I relentlessly
pursue the source of irritation.

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

Both would be true
for my impetuosity comes
from being firmly grounded and
my grounding takes shape from
the flashes of inspiration I explore.

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

Tomorrow the moon goes void at 11:58am. I’m planning to post the promised information about the planetary days and hours so you;ll have them to float on the surface and take seed where they will.

Day Twenty-One: Entering the Void

Posted in Esbat, Lunar, Magick, Moon Tide, The Temple of the Moon with tags , , , , , , , , on July 28, 2013 by themagickalpen

July 28

Waning Moon

Void of Course

Sun in Leo

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The Moon remains void all day today and until 12:43am Monday Morning. We’re leaving the energy of Fire (Aries) and transiting into the Earthy foundations of Taurus. I variety of images and analogies came to mind as the day progressed.  My initial thoughts were that of the earth, transparent on the surface to the intensity and nature of heated transformation that is taking place below.

This period of transition is one of moving from the Cardinal or initial outpour of energies that was Aries into what will wrangle it into structured form in the Fixed modality of Taurus.  Additionally, the movement is from the element of Fire to Earth.  The slow and steady burning of a fire that is fueled by wood reducing it down and giving way to the remaining manifest form of ash that is the byproduct.

Emotionally, kinda feels like staring into blackened waters. You know that there is light in there and  you sense some sort of structure forming, but it is not yet clear and you are unsure about what the resulting product will be. Not much to do today other than to hold steady as a new foundation is crafted.

I spent some time just looking deeply into the flame of the white candle I had lit at the full moon as I connected to the energies of the day. The words of the poem below rose up as I was writing and I surrendered to the stillness of pause before the moon took its place in the energy of Taurus.

hold_my_hand_35_touch_the_void_by_deepbluerenegade

I looked into
The Great deep
And black inky
Waters flowed.

I looked into
The Great deep
And eyes wide with
Wonder peered back.

I looked into
The Great deep
And tiny sparks
Of red flame flickered.

I looked into
The Great deep
And saw the
Newly formed
Foundation of my making
Rising up from flowing
Flame filled waters
to greet me.

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