Managing the Opposition

By  I o r d a n u s 

While the Opposition is undoubtedly a “difficult” Aspect to handle when present in one’s natal chart, it is not a “curse,” nor should it be considered a misfortune in our lives. 

The Opposition, like all Dynamic Aspects, should instead be seen as an opportunity for growth, a kind of challenge that, if overcome, can help you enormously throughout your life. 

Naturally, anyone with a real and deep knowledge of Astrological Aspects will never see an Opposition in such a dark light. 

As is always the case in the world, it is ignorance that generates fear, and it is the lack of a real understanding of what an Opposition is, where it originates, and what it represents in strictly psychological terms, that generates fear-based interpretations.
 

One of the problems is that when studying Astrology, Aspects are too often neglected, treated too superficially, or even skipped entirely.
 

For example, one of the most common mistakes people make when interpreting their own natal chart is to immediately focus on the Astrological Houses and leave the Aspects behind.
 

This is actually a big mistake. The Houses should be practically the last part to analyze in a natal chart.
 

There is a precise order in analyzing a natal chart, a logical order, and it is: Planets > Aspects > Houses.
 

This makes perfect sense because the Planets, which are “the what” inside your psyche, are mainly influenced by two factors: the Zodiac Sign they are positioned in and the Aspects they form with other Planets.
 

The Houses, which represent “the where” inside your psyche, should be analyzed later because you cannot understand how a Planet influences a House if you haven’t first clearly understood how that Planet is influenced by Sign and Aspects.
 

However, I must add that the “fault” of this widespread ignorance about Astrological Aspects also lies with the teachers, as it is quite rare to find books or lessons specifically dedicated to the study of Aspects.
Often, at best, you will find only one or two chapters dedicated to Aspects in a book that deals with Astrology in general.
 

It’s a pity because Aspects definitely deserve a specialized course of deepening and study, precisely because they are indeed an important knowledge for anyone who wants to practice astrology at any level.
 

In fact, if Aspects are already an important part of the natal chart interpretation process, thus in psychological astrology, they become practically the core of everything when it comes to interpreting transits, that is, in horary astrology.
 

Understanding well that Opposition that will form in a month between Mars and your natal Moon becomes imperative when practicing horary astrology, just to give an example.
 

If a wrong conception of the Opposition is already harmful when it comes to better understanding your personality, you can be sure that it will be equally harmful when it comes to understanding the effects a transiting Opposition can have on your life.
 

It is not at all healthy to develop wrong beliefs about who you are and what you can do, but it is a real risk when the psychological dynamics triggered by the Aspects are not deeply understood.
 

That’s why I decided to give you a hand and better illustrate what it means to have an Opposition and what psychological effects it triggers in your inner world, so you can avoid living this Aspect as an absolute evil (never think in absolutes).
 

See you here tomorrow; you will find an email from me entirely dedicated to the study of the Opposition.

See you tomorrow!

The Opposition is a Dynamic Aspect of 180° that can form between two or more elements in the natal chart. It is based on the geometries of the Square, and its nature is Saturnine. 

Like all dynamic Aspects, it essentially creates a block in the psyche that prevents the energy of the two elements involved from flowing smoothly and easily. In the case of the Opposition, the block is created by the contrast of the two pieces of the chart involved. They have equal power: each wants to overpower the other, and neither wants to give in.

This mainly generates a persistent feeling of pressure and stress in the inner world of those who have this Aspect. 

Saturnine Nature 

As showed by Thema Mundi, the Opposition is an interaction that acquires the nature of Saturn.
If you clearly understand the psychological forces that Saturn embodies, it will be easier for you to comprehend the nature of an Opposition.

 As you should already know, Saturn represents, among other things, limits, obstacles, and challenges.

The Opposition is an interaction that acquires exactly these characteristics.
The two planets involved obstruct each other, so neither can express itself fully. It is as if there is an eternal conflict between them, but not a violent and agitated conflict, rather a slow and persistent opposition of two equally intense but contrary energies.

 Imagine two people, a man and a woman, locked in a room and trying to get out. Every time the woman has an idea and tells the man, he stops her and says it’s not a good idea, and every time the man takes an initiative, the woman blocks him and tells him to stay put.

 

They are not fighting, yelling, or battling, but both are unable to express themselves, they inhibit each other, they hinder each other instead of collaborating, and thus both are stuck and neither can get out of the room. 

The Opposition generates a dichotomy within the personality that causes discomfort and stress due to the frustration of feeling inhibited and unable to act.

Unlike the Square, which generates instability, the Saturnine nature of the Opposition expresses stability, constancy, and persistence. Its presence and action within the personality are therefore stable and constant, like a pressure or a conflict that is always active and present or a character trait that does not need to be triggered.

 In other words, those who have an Opposition in their natal chart do not experience it with rapid mood or idea changes, but rather as a persistent stalemate, a constant pressure.

 The Saturnine nature of the Opposition also gives it a "karmic" nuance. Being Saturn the "Lord of Karma," means that Oppositions, when present in the Natal Chart, also denote a challenge, a karmic test presented to us to learn from our past path and access a higher path subsequently.

 Evolutionary Potential

 Dynamic Aspects should not be interpreted as absolute discomfort, but on the contrary, as a necessary discomfort to achieve personal evolution. It is indeed the pressure and discomfort produced by the stress of an Opposition that will push you to act to get out of that state of discomfort, and every time you manage to handle and reconcile the two opposing poles, you will achieve lasting personal growth as well as an immediate benefit.

 The key to handling an Opposition and unlocking its evolutionary potential involves two factors:

 1. Gaining awareness of the existence of the Opposition and what psychological forces are in conflict.

 2. Working consciously to integrate the two opposing poles.

 The first factor is common to all Aspects; the first step to overcoming a problem or a block is always to become aware that a problem is present, stop ignoring it, and get to work.

The second step is to understand the origin and nature of the block, specifically analyzing the Planets involved in the Opposition, what psychological forces they represent, and how the Zodiac Sign they are placed in the Chart influences those forces.

 We will temporarily set aside the Astrological Houses where the Planets are located.

 All these steps will give us full awareness of the origin and nature of your Opposition and the effects it produces in your life.

 At this point, we can move on to factor number two: the integration of opposites.

The Opposition is a dynamic Aspect, but it is also based on a consonance of alchemical Elements; it can only form between planets positioned either on Fire and Air or on Water and Earth.

 As you should already know if you have solid foundations in Astrology, Fire and Air and Water and Earth are complementary Elements to each other, that is, by uniting with each other, they can complete each other.

 In complementarity lies the key to handling and "mastering" an Opposition.

Those who have the Opposition in their Chart should ensure that the two Planets involved, or rather, the two psychological forces involved do not oppose each other anymore, but rather ensure that one takes advantage of the help of the other and vice versa.
 

 In some ways, we could say that you need to almost try to transform the Opposition into a Sextile. The Sextile is also an Aspect between two complementary psychological forces, but unlike the Opposition, in the Sextile they are already in harmony and complement each other effortlessly.

 In the Opposition, however, they cannot "agree," despite having all the cards in place to find an agreement and work together to achieve wonders. It is therefore in the conscious work of those who have the Opposition to make the two parts involved find a way to agree and collaborate.

 Integration is the key word and should not be confused with "alternation," which means giving space sometimes to one and sometimes to the other, something that would only worsen things.

 If, for example, in a natal chart, we have an Opposition between the Moon and Mercury, it is likely that there is a constant inner conflict between logical thinking, the desire for control, organization, and the emotional sphere, spontaneity, dreams.

 The key to handling this Opposition lies precisely in the integration of the differences between the two opposites, in other words, we can say that the two must find their balance of forces, so that one no longer tries to overpower the other.

 Mercury should let lunar qualities intervene to live more spontaneously, especially in situations where logic should not have too much space, such as human relationships.

 Similarly, the Moon should give more space to Mercury's qualities in situations where organization and method are useful for success, such as in a work context.

 The two Planets in Opposition, in short, must learn to coexist and collaborate together, each bringing their own qualities to the other where required.

 This is anything but easy, requiring undoubtedly a lot of conscious work by those who have the Opposition Aspect in the natal chart.

 As mentioned earlier, since the Opposition has a Saturnine nature, it also acquires "karmic" nuances.

 Thus, unlocking the stagnant energy of an Opposition becomes almost imperative for those who want to live consciously and fully accept the "karmic burden" they are called to carry, so that they can peacefully free themselves in the next incarnations.

I want to emphasize this last point: in this case, you need to work with faith for a future reward, a freedom that you won't achieve in this lifetime.
Naturally, this is a very good reason to work consciously toward fully managing an Opposition.

In closing, I want to share with you the major psychological limiting effects of an Opposition, so you can recognize them into yourself or into your loved ones, and take conscious countermeasures to manage them properly:
 Procrastination: The stagnant energy of an Opposition can easily lead to long-term procrastination, delaying decisions on the involved themes, or even avoiding the discomfort caused by the internal conflict.

 Inhibition: The two planets involved often cancel each other out. Psychologically, this means an inability to express oneself or act when it comes to the psychological themes associated with the two planets in Opposition.

 Frustration: The feeling of paralysis and blockage from the Opposition causes persistent feelings of powerlessness and frustration.

 Stress: The ongoing conflict and inner dissonance can cause a sensation of stress, like a continuous annoyance. It’s like a discordant note playing continuously in an otherwise perfect symphony.

 Social Pressure: Oppositions are related with social pressure, especially family pressure. Social pressure can be perceived as a source of discomfort, dissatisfaction, or even as a true enemy.

 Limiting Beliefs: Opposing ideas that clash in the mind can easily make these ideas seem impossible, unachievable, or discouraging, greatly limiting the person’s potential.

Squares in synastry: how to make them work

Overcome misunderstandings and conflict

 Squares in synastry have a bad reputation. Mars, Saturn, Neptune, Uranus and Pluto squares have a particularly nasty rep as they’re associated with misunderstandings and conflict. But a negative and fatalistic view of squares in synastry could have you caught up in self-defeating self-talk, when in many cases all that’s required is the development of greater understanding and compassion for each other.

As Steven Forrest writes in his excellent article Love Handles: Practical Synastry in Action, aspects are the ‘glue’ that hold a relationship together. Without aspects between two charts there would be no attraction, and little reason to interact at all. Easy aspects, such as trines and sextiles, keep us together because they feel good, they are comfortable. Difficult aspects, such as oppositions and squares, keep us together by making things interesting. They are the friction that creates the sparks, the tension that leads to development, growth and change. Without oppositions and squares in synastry a relationship will get boring fast!

In reality aspects are neither good nor bad. All can be used positively to fulfill the basic function of a healthy relationship: to help each individual reach their highest potential. Squares in synastry are no exception.

With oppositions in synastry we often find ourselves in power struggles related to the area of the chart and the signs involved. With squares in synastry there is a tendency towards misunderstanding; blaming and judgment often results. The planets are in such different signs that there is a basic inability to see things from the other person’s perspective, but being in the same quadruplicity (cardinal, fixed or mutable) there is also a certain similarity that we may not be able to see. We may deny these qualities in ourselves, while projecting them onto the other.

Some squares in synastry are not as difficult as others

The chances of misunderstanding and conflict occurring with squares in synastry has a lot to do with the planets involved, and with the placements of the planet’s in the signs and houses.
Let’s take an example. A woman’s 8th House Capricorn Moon is square a man’s Saturn in Libra in the 5th. She is a person who feels very intensely but tends to cover it up with a mask of capable, professional detachment. He is someone who makes his decisions on values of fairness and justice rather than emotionality, and although his Pisces Sun makes him very intuitive he has little time for over the top expressions of feeling. He is therefore very attracted to this women who seems to manage her emotions so well.
Unfortunately Moon in Capricorn is not always honest when asked if she’s ok! She may put on a brave face but deep down she’s intensely confused and unhappy. Knowing that Saturn admires her for her non-attachment and balanced perspective she is all the more likely to keep her feelings to herself and over time begins to feel repressed, secretive and insecure.
Fortunately with this placing we have two features that help bring greater understanding. The first is the Moon’s placing in Saturn’s sign of Capricorn. This brings some commonality and each partner is therefore able to see the others motivations more clearly. The second is a trine aspect between the woman’s Moon and the man’s Chiron, giving him a strong desire to foster her emotional healing. He is therefore likely to have greater patience and a stronger desire to penetrate her shell. Both of these factors give the couple a greater chance of working through and resolving the misunderstandings inherent in the square aspect.
Thus, even in the case of the much-feared Moon-Saturn square, some squares in synastry are not as difficult as others. It all depends on the planets, signs and houses involved, as well as the way the square interacts with the other elements in the chart. As we see over and over again, understanding astrology is all about seeing things as a whole. You cannot take one element and look at it in isolation.

How can squares in synastry lead to a healthy relationship?

1. Practice empathy – Overcoming squares in synastry, especially the ones that are causing a lot of misunderstanding and conflict, is all about practicing empathy. We need to see from the other person’s perspective, a perspective that may seem completely alien to us. We need to gifts of Neptune to imagine what it is like to be them, with their particularly astrological traits and neuroses.
   
2. Let go of control – Sometimes we need to recognise that the conflict in our relationships, whether caused by squares in synastry or other factors, is not going to go away until one person backs down. By remaining conscious and present you can often see when the issue between you is just not worth the unhappiness caused by the conflict. Surrendering your position, as long as it is done with good will, completely disarms the other and leaves you both free to enjoy each others company.
   
3. Accept the other person as they are – The unfortunate reality is that none of us are perfect, but some of us have yet to accept this. We may beat ourselves up for our own faults or we may harass others for theirs, but neither approach is very useful. Accepting ourselves and others as we are, especially when this does not fit the model of how we would like things to be, is a fundamental step towards developing healthy relationships.
   
4. Take responsibility for your own needs – It’s easy to blame others for failing to meet our needs and squares in synastry make this more likely. For example a woman with Venus square her partner’s Mars may feel angry that they are rough and ready in the bedroom when what she craves is sensuality. If in all other ways the relationship is a good one, this woman might consider meeting her need for sensuality elsewhere, such as by enjoying a perfumed bath or having a professional massage.
   
5. Communicate – Communication is vital in any relationship and the misunderstandings caused by squares in synastry make it all the more important. Never assume the other person understands where you’re coming from, or blame them for failing to ‘get you’ when you haven’t been clear about how you see the world, your needs or your feelings. If communicating tends to backfire on you, leading to drama and conflict, check out the principles of Non Violent Communication. They’ve helped me a lot :)

Of course there are times when no amount of communication and empathy will help. Abusive and co-dependent relationships have deeper problems at their root. If you’re in a relationship where you feel put down not built up, the wisest course of action may be to walk away. There’s no point flogging a dead horse. If you can’t seem to get out of the relationship, seek help. When you’re in a soul-destroying relationship you may no longer have the strength to walk away. In such cases seek out a person who loves and cares for you and ask for their support. In time you will regain your strength and then you may have the opportunity to return the favour.

Squares in synastry contain important lessons our relationship can teach us about ourselves and others. When we view them in this way, instead of as fatal flaws that doom the relationship from the start, we can use them for our personal growth. As always there is no need to force anything. Just become aware of where there is misunderstanding or tension. As you become more conscious of the roles the two of you are playing, you will find the situation naturally shifts and changes. This may be towards greater harmony between the two of you or, where one or both people is unable to adapt, it may mean an end to the relationship.

Link: https://www.insightastrology.net/synastry/squares-in-synastry/

Planets That Conjunct the Ascendent

If you have a planet conjunct the ASC, people will see it. You won’t be able to hide it, even if you want. You may want to but it is futile. You may as well learn about it( because it is not going away). That is what this article is about——-Planets that conjunct the ASC.

1, Chiron conjunct the ASC- –I seem to specialize in this because I seem to have “discovered” that it means severe bullying. I am not saying I discovered this, per se . I just have never seen it stated by anyone else and I found it by doing charts. Hence, I tried to understand why and came upon some conclusions. If humans see pain, they attack. Why is this? Fear, probably. Not all humans are bullies but enough are that a person with this placement will go through a version of hell on earth.

2. Moon conjunct the ASC–this is said to give a person good looks. In my experience, this is true. They may have an adorable baby face. This person will wear his heart on his sleeve, no matter what else he has in his charrt, even a strong secretive Pluto. The Moon conjunct the ASC or MC will show his heart to the world. I have the Moon conjunct the MC, so know about this. The ASC is slightly different, in that it relates to his normal life and not his career life. Trying to separate these is artificial . Both placements show their hearts. However, the ASC placement shows his heart more in daily life. The MC placement shows his heart more in his career and to society, in general. I do agree about this. I am not as open in my daily life as I am in my career. The chart never lies down to the very details.

3. Neptune conjunct the ASC–I have heard that people with this get bullied. I have 2 accounts of this but that is all. I do know that it gives a glamorous sense to the person as in a Jackie O. She may have had this. For the native, it gives an amorphous sense of self, which is HARD. I have Neptune in the 1st House and I struggle to feel whole and not fragmented. Conjunct the ASC is very much stronger and so they struggle to feel solid. If people see this, that could bring out bullying.

4. Pluto conjunct the ASC is very different from any of the above. It is a powerhouse and comes by it naturally. You will love him or hate him, but you WON”T miss him. He is large. He walks and talks large. If it is a woman, she walks and talks large, even if she is petite. Pluto conj the ASC is the sign of the leader. He will not be bullied into taking a sheeple position so he can fit in. He was not made to fit in but to stand out. I love this position as you know where you stand and that means a lot in this day of airy, fairy political correctness.

5.Mars conjunct the ASC—This is a wonderful placement and horrible placement. I think we can say that about this. It gives the person get up and go and great assertiveness. However, these traits may make the person obnoxious. If you have Mars conjunct the ASC, be careful you are not obnoxious and alienate people. These people do not seem to realize that they are alienating people until everyone leaves and they don’t know why. Check yourself before you wreck yourself as Ali G says.

6.Venus conjunct the ASC–Just as Mars conjunct the ASC may be obnoxious, Venus conjunct the ASC is charming. This placement confers beauty and grace. You will feel it from the person and you will enjoy being in his/her presence. This placement is a pure gift.

7.Mercury conjunct the ASC—This placement gives a warm, friendly, chatty vibe to the native. They are good listeners and curious about all things. They may have an impish look to them, as if they are conjuring up mischief and they probably are.

8. Sun Conjunct ASC–these natives have a natural self confidence. It is a gift but they have to be careful that they are not too self centered. There is a balance. Self confidence is needed. However, there is a fine line between self centered and self confidence. This is a struggle for every human being but more so for the person with Sun conjunct the ASC. In this case, look to the house in which Leo is on the cusp. That sphere of life will be what the native brings to the world.

9. Jupiter conj the ASC–I have saved the best for last. Jupiter is opening presents on Christmas day. Jupiter just feels good. We all like to be near a “feel-good” person. This native is popular because he spreads feel good vibes like fairy dust. He does not have to try. They exude from him. He may have a hard time controlling his weight. Jupiter enlarges what it touches. It gives him a big spirit in the manner of Santa Claus but santa had a weight problem, too.

10. Uranus conjunct the ASC–We can say weird-o in one word. Does weird have to be bad? No, only weirdos take risks to provide growth for the rest of us. Any great reformer was a weirdo until time caught up with him. That may have been long after his death, as isthe case with many great musicians, poets and artists. Uranus conjunct the ASC will show his individuality, somehow. He may dress weird, wear strange make-up or have an opinion that makes everyone spill his drink at the cocktail party. The Unaspected Uranus is the most beautiful Unaspected Planet, in my opinion. Here is a person who is totally himself. Don’t we all want that?

11. Saturn conjunct the ASC–This can be a mixed bag but mostly hard. The good part would be that they can have beautiful facial structure in the way of an Angelica Huston. It will be strong and very dignified looking. The bad part is that they can have bone and teeth problems. I know one Saturn conjunct the ASC who had a dentist break his baby tooth such that the adult tooth grew in weird. I know several Capricorn ASC’s ( which is similar) who have had long beak like noses and many got nose jobs.

Emotionally, Saturn conjunct the ASC can make a person grow up fast. He will have the persona of an old man when he is a child. Do you know those children who look like wise old men. I bet they have Saturn conjunct the ASC or a Capricorn ASC.

Source:  http://mychristianpsychic.com/journal/planets-that-conjunct-the-ascendent/

Natal Venus trine Saturn

What happens when Venus trines Saturn in a native’s natal chart? Venus is considered as one of the most beneficial planets of our Solar system, while Saturn as a malefic. When the two planets form a trine aspect in a chart, their energies flow harmonically, allowing their best qualities to bloom in the chart owner’s reality.

The trine aspect means that the two planets are about 120 degrees apart in the zodiac circle, and in case they are indeed exactly in such an angle the aspect is in its full power. Nevertheless, it rarely happens that two planets form exactly 120 degrees between them; thus there exists an orb of approximately 7 degrees on either side, where the planetary relation is still considered a trine. The further away it is from the exact trine, the less strong is the influence of the planets’ aspect in the life of the native. We should though mention, that in case the orb is less than 3 degrees, the aspect has enough strength to have drastic effects on the chart owner.

Venus is the planet of plentifulness, beauty, joy and love. Full of positive energy, when in trine with another planet it strengthens its powers and blunts its destructive energy. Saturn is considered a malefic, because he is usually teaching in hard ways the human beings. Nevertheless, a lot of positive can derive from him. He is governing stability, maturity, and when in a good aspect with Venus his coldness and melancholy are dissolved by the Venusian rays.

When someone has a trine between Venus and Saturn, it usually signifies a loving grandparent. The person usaully receives a lot of love from elderly people in his early life, and learns to love and respect the third age. There is high possibility of taking care or being friends with people lot older in age, which in the end has a great effect on the person’s karma. Saturn’s transits are not so difficult periods as to other people, and the planet acts mostly as a gentle teacher and not as a pushy one.

They are usually cautious in love, knowing exactly what they want to give and receive spiritually when in a bond with another person. Their long-term relationships tend to be very flourishing, keeping the spark of love lot longer than others do. Long-term partners are chosen carefully, as they like people with whom there is mutual respect. They are feeling lot more comfortable in a long term relationship, as they find little meaning in casual adventures. Even their short love stories involve a deep human connection between the partners, at least from their side.

The same cautious attitude they have towards money. They are not stingy, but keep a constructive eye on their spendings, and do not indulge in overexpenses. Saturn, as a planet highly responsible for poverty issues, does not put his grim hand on them – in periods of crises they still have what they need materially and financially. This is even more frequent when either Venus or Saturn are in the 2nd or 8th house, or either of the two planets is governing these houses. Of course, there should be no other adverse aspects of malefics imposed on the two planets; otherwise the whole outcome is different.

Natives with Saturn trining Venus are usually becoming good parents, and even better grandparents. They teach their children and grandchildren with care, raising them to become conscious and respective to others. They like encouraging younger people to develop their own character, rather than trying to impose them role models that they should follow.

The natives with such a placement are very aware of self-discipline. There is high possibility that they learnt it through osmosis from an elder person in their early years, and it is quite possible to achieve success in the life departments that this planetary aspect takes place. They are late bloomers, and success usually comes after their 35th birthday. They have strong work ethics, and usually attract older people as friends, who tend to become their protectors and advisors. The good relationship with grandparents is usually a pattern that builds a great approach to all elders, thus it is very easy for a native to enter circles of influential elder people which will make him feel a part of it. Also, this placement makes leveling up in groups or organizations easy, as the people who are higher in the hierarchy are seeing a lot of potential in the native and act in favor of him.

If Venus or Saturn are in the 5th or in the 7th house, the love affairs of the natives involve older partners quite often. When in the 7th, there is also possibility of marriage with an older partner, especially if Venus is present at the end of the trine. If it is Saturn that is present in the 7th, it can give a quite long relationship with an elder person, but block marriage as a ceremony and papers.

They tend to be old-fashioned, preferring to be dressed well but classical. They like elegance, but usually do not experiment with extremes in their look. The right word to be used for such kind of natives is “classy”. People with such a placement are fortunate enough to age beautifully – sometimes when their hair begins to become silver they are even more beautiful than in their young ages.

Natives with Saturn trinng Venus are usually quite lucky. When Venus is present in the 2nd, 8th or 11th house, there are possibilities of unexpected windfalls of money. There can be reappearing incidents of being in the right place at the right time, even if there usually is a background of working towards that type of goals.

Usually, the more they age, the less problems they have. This could be also a reason behind their graceful ageing, as happiness is carved on their faces and stabilizing their look in such a way. They do not age harshly, and usually look younger than their age, although their hair can start changing color a lot earlier.

Saturn trine Venus is a great aspect to have, as it softens the role of the greatest malefic. People with such a placement are considered to be lucky, or to carry good Karma from previous lives, as Saturn is highly responsible about Karma. In the present life, one could mention that the blessings of the elder people towards them empowered their reality, and that the prayers of their beloved grandparents materialized.

Source: http://freespiritedmind.com/blog/natal-venus-trine-natal-saturn/

 

The Alchemy of turning a square into triangles

Laugh in the face of squares or the squares’ boss will laugh at you.

In astrology there are various energies (aspects) that occur when planets and points connect (at particular degrees, angles). It’s the “Hey, I see you and I’m now deciding on what I’m going to do with you”.  One of these aspects is called a Square.

What’s the meaning of all this?

When we think of a square, what comes to mind?  Perhaps hard edges, enclosed, straight and narrow, balanced, equal, flat, lifeless, stationary, professional, covering, etc.

And for some reason, a square visualizes into a cube for me so if that’s the case for you too, what comes to mind? Perhaps a box, containment, a holding vessel, a stepping stool, an obstacle, heaviness, etc.

Sometimes a square is there to keep us safe, protect us and we are NOT meant to engage the aspect without a solid idea on how it will impact other aspects and a game plan to deal with the outcome of removing the obstacle; however, most other times squares are there to challenge us.  We are supposed to remove them and they will ofer up something special if we do.

Could you see squares as opportunities to help you get to a higher place and to become a winner?  That squares can compel us to achieve greatness?  To me, a square says that we have loads to offer the world and others if the ego would just get over itself.

You are NOT at the mercy of your square. A square is a rite of passage.  Have you / can you come of age?

Imagine this

Imagine a square is like a sci-fi portal.  There are two very different sides and all you have to do is be brave, take a deep breath, do something completely different, and walk to the other side. And because it’s different over there, learning the language and customs quickly of the other is important for survival.

Just like life, everyone has a boss and it’s no different for the square.  To me, the planet Saturn seems to be the most likely match as the ruler of the square. While Saturn can be quite the serious chap, he can also be the trickster too.

When I think of Saturn (mascot, goat), I think of being tested to see if I’m worthy of the gifts that the old man will bestow upon me should I pass.  I think of a challenging momentum and not to give up, even in the face of adversity, in order to achieve success.  I see Saturn as moving cautiously, slowly but with purpose.

Let’s face it!

I see the square causing fear because the other side is unknown, doesn’t feel comfortable, not what used to, often not traditional at first glance, and possibly taboo or lacking civility in some way.  In the face of a square, some people give up and say, “It’s just the way it is and I can’t do anything about it.”  However, once we overcome our fears, get out of our comfort zone, see what the other side has to offer, and discuss / negotiate options, we can achieve all the power and abundance Saturn wants to give us.  Until then Saturn challenges us to make the unknown known, the unconventional normal, the uncomfortable comfortable, the unworkable workable…

What tools and strategies will you employ to pass Saturn’s Test? A hammer? Invisibility? Pretend the square isn’t there and just slide on pass? Crawl over, around? Lobby Saturn to change the test format? Say to Saturn, “Hey, Can you please move that square for me? Thanks!”.

Laugh in the face of the square and after you pass Saturn’s Test remember to say, “The joke’s on you!”.

A Square turned on its side makes a DIAMOND!  The moral of the picture is to look at things differently.

I have a belief that no such thing as good or bad exists, only difference.

What’s in a square? That which we call a trine. By any other square would smell as sweet. Oh, I think Will would get a kick out of that quote mod!

In the Wikipedia Astrological aspect article it says, “Basically, the square’s energy is similar to that of a trine but it is intensified to such an extent that the energy is said to be stressful.”  I agree.

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Two triangle shapes make up a square.

Split them up, they make two triangles (squished Trines).  Put them together, they make a square.

Make your square work for you.  Reap all the rewards and benefits from a square that you are meant to have. One Square makes two triangles or Trines.  A Trine is related to Jupiter. So that means BIG luck — the Jackpot, if you can successfully turn your square/s into Trines.

The Square is a HIGHER FORM of the Trine.  The Trine is wrapped in a constricting and protective Saturnian box.  Imagine the gift, the power contained within. The Trine is lazy; the Square tense.  The Trine privileged; the Square tested.  Should you choose to accept, your mission is to blast the box off the Square to get to the Diamond Mine of Trines.  Think Indiana Jones!! Think Zen Warrior!  Only those who can harness the power of a Square (Pandora’s Box) will succeed in receiving more gifts than one Trine bestows.

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Turning a Square into a Trine/s

The basics in turning a SQUARE into a TRINE, Triangles goes something like this:

1. Do the exact opposite of what you would normally or want to do. Do something different.
2. Exercise discipline rather than restrict planetary themes and influence.  You know what I’m talking about.
3. Channel the Trine sign attributes that reside next to the Square. A Square is 3 signs apart, a Trine 2 signs apart.  So if your Square is created by the signs Sagittarius and Pisces, channel Scorpio to replace Sag. Or Aries replaces Pisces to create a Trine with Sagittarius.  It’s helpful to select a sign that’s already in Trine so you can get the most out of the transmutation process.

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Visual Representations: Manifesting The Miracle

	Square. 90° angle. Three signs apart.
	Trine. 120° angle. Four signs apart. An isosceles triangle.
	Space taken up by a trine compared to a square. See the trine hidden inside the box? Also see the other two triangular spaces?
	A square split in half, makes two right-angle triangles (trine-like) on either side.
	Two trines back-to-back on its side.
	Two trines back-to-back on its side and a square turned on its side to make the shape of a diamond or star! Once you turn the Square around, harnessing its power, you get two Trines bursting outside of the square – no longer contained!

Source: http://blog.virgovault.com/2010/12/21/the-alchemy-of-turning-a-square-into-triangles/

 

Aspects and Chart Shaping

New astrologers will sooner or later come across references to unaspected planets, dissociate aspects, aspect patterns and chart shapes. This article, adapted from the text of Nicholas Campion's compendium of astrology - The Ultimate Astrologer (published by Hay House, 2003) - offers an introductory guide to their meaning in the birth chart. ASPECTS An aspect is the precise distance between any two points in a horoscope. Almost all aspects measure distances around the ecliptic. Usually aspects are formed between two planets, although aspects between any one planet and the angles (Ascendant, Descendant, MC and IC) are also considered. The aspects are used to establish how the planets combine to stimulate and moderate each other's influence. They are divided into two categories, major or minor, and harmonious or tense. Generally, major aspects are much more powerful than the minor; but there are certain astrologers who place a greater than usual emphasis upon the minor aspects. Aspects are formed by division of the circle of 360 degrees by certain numbers, and may be understood through the laws of numerology. Division of the circle by 3, 6 and 12 is harmonious and flowing, while division by 2, 4 and 8 is rigid, structured and difficult. Harmonious aspects are also known as good, easy, positive, soft or benefic, and tense aspects are also known as bad, difficult, negative, hard or malefic. The tense aspects cause friction between the planets involved. This friction brings difficulties and problems, which may be psychological, environmental or a combination of the two. In coping with these problems many people experience failure, but some will be driven to overcome their difficulties and in the process develop their astrological potential. The harmonious aspects bring an easy relationship between the planets involved. They provide a helpful environment for innate abilities which the individual may take for granted, but fail to develop fully. Each type of aspect, therefore, has two faces. The tense aspects bring difficulties which can result in great achievement, while the harmonious aspects bring easy conditions which can lead to wasted opportunities. It is preferable to have a balance of tense and harmonious aspects. Individuals with only harmonious aspects may have plenty of potential but no drive to develop it, while those with only tense aspects may lack the faith and optimism to overcome difficulties. There are nine aspects in common use: the five major aspects - conjunction, opposition, trine, square and sextile - and four minor aspects - the semi-sextile, semi-square, sesquiquadrate and quincunx. The quincunx is also known as the inconjunct. Table of Aspects: Name Glyph Degrees Apart* Orb* Strength Nature Conjunction 0 8 ° Major Neutral Semi-sextile 30 2° Minor Harmonious Semi-square 45 2° Minor Tense Sextile 60 4° Major Harmonious Square 90 8° Major Tense Trine 120 12° Major Harmonious Sesquiquadrate 135 2° Minor Tense Quincunx or Inconjunct 150 2° Minor Tense Opposition 180 8° Major Tense * When Exact * Orbs An orb is the distance by which a planet is allowed to deviate from the exact aspect. The modern standard sets an orb according to the aspect, but traditional techniques allow for the prominence of the planet involved, so that an aspect between the Sun and Moon, for example, is allowed a larger orb than an aspect between Mercury and Venus. The more exact the aspect, the stronger the influence, the looser the aspect the weaker the influence. Conjunction is the most powerful aspect and combines two planets in a single force. [See Table] Opposition is extremely powerful and places the planets in conflict with each other, producing difficulties, but increasing the range of possibilities open to the individual. [See Table] Trine is the most powerful harmonious aspect, bringing the planets together in an easy combination. [See Table] Square is strong, but less powerful than opposition, and creates friction between planets. [See Table] Sextile is a strong harmonious aspect, but less powerful than the trine. [See Table] Semi-square, sesquiquadrate and quincunx are all minor tense aspects. Psychologically their effect may be seen as a very weak version of the square. Some astrologers give 'them additional importance in predicting events. [See Table] Semi-sextile is the only minor harmonious aspect, and psychologically is a weak version of the sextile. [See Table] APPLYING & SEPARATING ASPECTS When two planets are moving together to an exact aspect they are applying. When they are moving apart from the exact aspect they are separating. Applying aspects are uually stronger psychologically than separating aspects. In event and horary horoscopes separating aspects refer to past events and applying aspects refer to future events. UNASPECTED PLANETS Opinions differ over the interpretation of unaspected planets. It is best to learn from experience, but the following guidelines are useful. First, the planet may be difficult to express. The principle it represents may be badly integrated with the rest of the personality and may even be neglected. In complete contrast, the lack of aspects may mean that the planet is unrestrained by other planets and therefore assumes an exaggerated importance. Sun unaspected: these people may have a poor sense of self-identity, but may appear to be very egotistical. Moon unaspected: these people may feel out of touch with their home, family, emotions and roots, but make strenuous efforts to overcome the problem. Mercury unaspected: these people may find it difficult to express their thoughts, may be quiet, but strive actively to develop intellectual skills. Venus unaspected: these people may find it difficult to form close relationships, but may make great efforts to be sociable. Mars unaspected: these people may find it difficult to motivate themselves but may have uncontrollable energy. Jupiter unaspected: these people may have Difficulty in creating opportunities, but spend a lot of energy looking for them. Saturn unaspected: these people may find it difficult to recognize limitations and cope with difficulties, but may develop strong self-discipline. Uranus unaspected: these people may have difficulty in expressing their personality, either neglecting or exaggerating it. Neptune unaspected: these people may have difficulty in giving expression to their imagination and mystical aspirations, but become very dedicated to artistic work or religious activity. Pluto unaspected: these people may find it difficult to harness emotional energy, and may seek emotional commitment and confrontation. ASPECTS IN DISSOCIATE SIGNS This would occur if, for example, the planet in Scorpio was conjunct a planet in Libra or Sagittarius, trine a planet in Aquarius or in opposition to a planet in Gemini. If the planets in an aspect are in dissociate signs this makes the issues raised more varied and potentially complicated, but a true understanding of this can only be gained with experience in chart interpretation. Much the same occurs when two planets are in a conjunction but in adjacent houses rather than in the same house. ASPECT PATTERNS When three or more planets are connected to each other by aspect, they form a pattern with a meaning of its own. 'T' SQUARE: Two planets in opposition are both in square to a third planet. This brings tension and sharp, pressing problems, the result of which may be great energy and consequently a better than average chance of success throughout life. When interpreting a T' Square all the factors involved - planets, signs and houses - must be taken separately and then built up into a picture of the choices, difficulties and solutions which each planet suggests. When the 'T' Square is in: Cardinal Signs, there is exceptional dynamism and energy; Fixed Signs, people may be excessively stubborn, fighting personal battles to the bitter end. Mutable Signs, they may try to solve, or even avoid, the problems associated with the 'T' Square by being flexible and adaptable. Solution to the 'T' Square  A: via harmonious Aspects. The tension of the 'T' Square can be released or positively expressed through the planet which makes the closest sextile or trine to any of the three planets in the 'T' Square. In this example the emotional tension of the Sun-Mars-Saturn 'T' Square can be released through the sextile to Jupiter in Cancer. B. Development of Opposite Characteristics The tension of the 'T' Square focuses on the planet at the apex, in this case Venus, and the part of the chart immediately opposite may also act as a focus for problems. By coping with them the whole situation can be eased and turned to advantage. In this example Venus in the eighth house, squared to Uranus and Saturn, suggests business difficulties. This may bring second house problems - personal financial ones with an inability to handle money. By learning how to deal with these issues, the eighth house problems, and the whole 'T' Square, can be helped. GRAND CROSS: The Grand Cross consists of four planets connected by four squares and two oppositions. In effect this consists of four 'T' Squares and, although the process of interpretation is essentially the same as that for a 'T' Square, the complexity and possibilities are considerably more varied. This pattern is not necessarily more dynamic than the T' Square. When the Grand Cross is in: Cardinal Signs, problems and difficulties are more likely to result in energetic and assertive behaviour. Fixed Signs, people may hang on to their problems and be exceptionally stubborn and resistant to change. Mutable Signs, they may be very adaptable but may also exacerbate their problems by evading them. GRAND TRINE: Three planets are connected by three trines to form a triangle, the Grand Trine, around which planetary influences circulate with ease. This brings a wealth of natural talent indicated by the signs and houses containing the planets, but may require tense aspects to provide the motivation for its expression. When the Grand Trine is in: Fire Signs, talents lie in enthusiasm, and the search for new possibilities. Earth Signs, talents lie in practical work and experience. Air Signs, talents lie in intellectual work and the communication of ideas. Water Signs, talents are rooted in sympathy, compassion and intuition. YOD: Also known as the Finger of Fate or the Finger of God, Yod is the name given to two planets in opposition connected to two other planets, one by semi-sextiles and the other by quincunxes. There is a consensus that this pattern is important, but few astrologers make much use of it. The two additional planets provide a choice of paths for the individual to express or discharge the tension of the opposition. MYSTIC RECTANGLE: This consists of four planets connected in a rectangle of two squares and two trines, together with two oppositions connecting the opposite planets. Despite the name there is nothing mystical about this pattern. The combination of tense and harmonious aspects produces the best possible potential for the constructive use of natural talents. KITE: The person with a kite pattern may be a 'high flyer'. All three planets in a grand trine are connected to a fourth planet, one by an opposition and the other two by sextiles. This is useful combination of tense and harmonious aspects in which the two planets connected by trines and sextiles provide outlets for the tension of the opposition. CHART SHAPES The general location of planets in the chart has long been an important consideration, but it was only in this century that certain patterns were formally identified and labelled, initially by the American astrologer Marc Edmund Jones. Examination of the chart shape forms a very useful part of any basic reading of the horoscope. See-Saw The planets are gathered in two opposing groups. This suggests a person who may be pulled in two completely different directions. There may be an awareness of opposing possibilities and an ability to manipulate these. Splay  The planets are grouped in tight bunches emphasizing a few houses and signs. This suggests a person who may be highly motivated in several completely different directions. Locomotive  All the planets are gathered within 2400. The unoccupied sector of the chart tends to remain unexpressed. Bucket All the planets are contained in one half of the chart except for one 'singleton' in the opposite half. This planet is the 'handle' of the bucket and assumes extra importance.  Bundle All the planets are contained within 1200. The individual tends to focus on one part of life's potential and ignores the rest. This pattern is especially strong if all the planets are on one side of either the Ascendant-Descendant axis or the MC-IC axis. Splash The planets are evenly dispersed around the zodiac. The individual has a wide range of abilities and experiences but may fail to concentrate sufficiently on any one goal. Nicholas Campion is an award-winning, internationally recognized authority on astrology, and past president of The Astrological Association of Great Britain and the Astrological Lodge of London. He has written many bestselling books and taught astrology both in the UK and around the world since 1980. He is the author of numerouds titles, including The Essentials of Vedic Astrology, The Great Year, Astrology, History and Apocolypse, Mundane Astrology: An Introduction to the Astrology of Nations & Groups, and The Book of World Horoscopes. He is currently a lecturer for the Cultural Astronomy and Astrology Degree Course offered by the Bath Spa University College. His astrological features have appeared in a variety of newspapers and magazines, notably The Daily Mail, Company, New Woman, Bella, Woman’s Realm, Nineteen, Zest, Eve, and Vogue. Visit Nick Campion's Online Astrology Resource at http://www.nickcampion.com/ http://www.skyscript.co.uk/aspects2.html