current HIGHLIGHT: sun, mercury, astraea, mars, and pallas athene enter aquarius

Art: Toshiyuki Enoki

💫Happy New Year! 🎉May it be blessed with much love and prosperity in all things that truly matter. 💖

OOB S' Mercury enters Capricorn @ 4:11 PM, EST via the 8th House, the natural home of Scorpio co-ruled by Mars & Pluto

Mercury OOB S'

Mercury rules chatty Gemini and analytical Virgo, so moving into an earthy sign such as Capricorn denotes a serious preoccupation with our thoughts and feelings. 

Our thinking becomes more methodical and centers on solid foundations from which to build our intentions into a reality rather than ideals.

Mercury is out-of-bounds; however, moves pretty quickly and only remains OOB between 10-14 days. Also, it only moves OOB up to four times a year, depending on the cycle. Mostly it's twice annually.

Contrary to the Moon (currently OOB N), Mercury is never out of bounds in the fixed signs such as Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, and Aquarius. It is only present in cardinal (initiating) and mutable (changing) signs.

An OOB Mercury maintains a balance between nocturnal and diurnal signs, as well as a balance of elements, yet it notably lacks the stabilizing presence of the fixed signs. More on Mercury OOB.

For Mercury, a transit via the 8th house presents an opportunity for deep reflection within our self. The truth is what provides Mercury in Scorpio the security of knowing—whether it's what we want to discover or not.  Mercury is pretty astute in that aspect, and Scorpio is fearless delving into any topic that attracts their attention.  

Mercury OOB -S will contribute to the internalized dialogue with our self and lead to potential expressions through communication such as writing, visual arts, or speaking. We can also expect flashes of genius and inspiration that may lead to exceptional writing or speeches. Being true to thyself is just as important as knowing thyself. 

Mercury in Capricorn 

In grounded Capricorn, we are able to detach ourselves and become the observer. With the difficult square to Neptune having separated, this could us well, especially in fields where powers of concentration are required. 

Detailed work is much more feasible and our diplomacy and tact shine when required. We are able to laugh at ourselves in this placement, as self-doubt is highly diminished. 

Aspect

Prior to the above transit, Mercury in Sagittarius square Neptune in Pisces, producing potential confusion and conflict. Be certain to remain grounded in reality during this time, or you could get carried away with some "pie-in-the-sky" opportunity based in fantasy. 

Repression or cocooning our self from others will not serve us during this aspect, as it will produce future resentment. If there is something you need to say, say it as articulately as possible without fear someone will misunderstand you. 

Avoid finalizing contractual agreements during this time. 

Mercury in Capricorn Natal

While there is no cookie-cutter astrology, those with this natal placement are know for certain traits. Difficult aspects can produce one to become over-ambitious, dogmatic, suspicious, and even materialistic. If you recognize these traits, you might want to slow down a bit and re-evaluate your goals. 

Dreams are always worth working toward, but there are more honorable ways of achieving them than being competitive and overly ambitious et al.

Art: Christiane Vleugels (Raipun) "Aquarius" 

Venus enters Aquarius Saturday morning @ 7:43 AM, EST, in the 2nd house, the natural home of Taurus ruled by Venus. 

Venus represents love, relationships, beauty, harmony, and is comfortable in Aquarius, who is associated with intellect, imagination and artistic talents, which complements Venus' desire for beauty and intellectual conversation.

Venus is also associated with our senses, known as the body's receptors, key indicators that alert us to what is pleasing—and what is not. Our desire to be surrounded by beauty, comfort, and security is a Venusian influence.

Aquarius is a Fixed sign and an extremely independent freedom seeker. They are logical and humane, taking a special interest in humanitarian efforts to improve the planet, making them very altruistic. 

They will deliberately resist expectations of conformation and make up their own rules. 

VENUS IN AQUARIUS

When these two conjoin, there's a progressive approach to socializing that's balanced by appreciation and genuine open mindedness that shifts our focus toward a deeper caring for the collective as a whole as well as humanitarian efforts, charitable causes, and authentically helping those in need. 

Being initiated through the realm of the 2nd house of values and substance, domicile to Venus, adds a grounded sense of steadfastness and responsible dependability. 

That's just fine with the airy intellect of Aquarius.  Communicating, planning, duties, responsibilities, and how we take care of ourselves will also be expanded from our individual focus to the greater collective as a whole. 

How can we make things better? 

The open-mindedness and original thinking of Aquarius combined with the Venusian affectionate social urge and sense of value can have us expressing opinions that are out-of-the-box and not widely received by our audience (Aquarius) but they will be captivated by the very idea expressed in such an intellectually charming manner (Venus ).

We may pick up on a patronizing energy; however, do not allow this to make you impatient, brusque, or frustrated that others can't seem to grasp the bigger picture we envision. This energy passes quickly, as our active imaginations will continue to excavate new avenues of thinking and expression. 

With a desire for liberation and justice for everyone, it's a perfect time to re-evaluate how we convey our original and unique concepts. 

This in turn enables us to change-up routines and ways of being to uncover our true desires so that they may be used for humanitarian outreach. 

Expect to meet new people and/or professional contacts throughout this transit. Some may become new friends or even someone in authority that can further our ideas. 

There may also be a significant expansion in our humanitarian efforts for those of us who genuinely work toward the betterment of the collective as a whole rather than ourselves individually. 

This transit is a perfect opportunity to advocate for collective concerns through organizations or groups who share the same values. While it doesn't necessarily bring a plethora of romance, it does present a season of genuine connection to our self with and through others. 

Venus in Aquarius is a powerful duo that appeals to the altruistic side of others in order to increase a collective of unity, compassion, and tolerance for those who think differently. It's a Utopic time for change and those who advocate for the betterment of humankind. 

Art: Freydoon Rassouli 

The Sun enters the Water Bearer @ 8:45 PM, EDT. This position is considered the Sun's detriment. 

When a planet is opposite the sign it rules, it's considered in its detriment. Many astrologers believe the planet doesn't operate at full power and takes on more of the sign's than the planet's coloration. 

Compare it to visiting where you must conform to rules and regulations without exceptions and you'll have an idea of the meaning of detrimental. 

The Sun enters the Water Bearer @ 8:45 PM, EDT. 

Information about Aquarius:

SYMBOL: Waves of water or electricity ♒

MODE + ELEMENT: Fixed Air 🌬

RULING PLANET: Uranus 🔵

HOUSE: 11th 🏠

MANTRA: “I know” 👤

BODY PART: Ankles 🦶

COLORS: Persian Blue, White, and Turquoise.

ARCHANGELS: Uriel & Cassiel 🪶

GOD: Prometheus, God of Forethought and Humankind👑

Flower: Orchid

ARCHETYPE: The Maverick

TAROT: The Star

🪶Archangel Uriel translates, "The Light of God".  Though it's also been translated as: “God is my light,” “the Fire of God,” “Flame of God,” or even “God’s face.” Through his connection with fire, he radiates the light of wisdom and truth in the midst of uncertainty, deceit, and obscurity. This also encompasses mastering emotions, dispelling anger, and conquering anxiety.

🪶Archangel Cassiel is referred to as the Angel of Tears and Temperament, or The Archangel of Duality. This AA can assist us in finding harmony and balance during low moments, unveil new realities, and aid in accepting the duality inherent in all of us. 

👑Prometheus is the God of Forethought and Humankind.  According to mythology, Prometheus, the Titan god of fire, stole fire from the gods and gifted it to man so they could evolve by using the sacred tool to cook their food, keep warm in the winter, and see through the darkness.  

The Sun enters the Water-bearer on a Monday, ruled by the Moon, indicating peace, sleep, healing, compassion, friends, psychic awareness, purification, and fertility. 

The Waxing Crescent Moon in Aquarius heralds' rebellious energy. Time to break habits and make abrupt changes. Personal freedom and individuality are the focus. 

Aquarius (Feb) Birthstone* 💍

The February-born shall find

Sincerity, and peace of mind,

Freedom from passion and from care,

If they the Amethyst will wear. 

Modern: Amethyst 

Zodiac: Ruby

As a Fixed sign, Aquarius is an extremely independent freedom seeker. They are logical and humane, taking a special interest in humanitarian efforts to improve the planet, making them very altruistic. They will deliberately resist expectations of conformation and make up their own rules. 

Once an Aquarius commits to a cause or intellectual ideal it's second only to the methodical yet determined characteristics of the Taurian bull. 

They are noted for tolerance and progressive ideas which would benefit the greater good of humankind. They are also very scientific and inventive. As a fixed Air sign, they are contrasted with unpredictability. You can thank their ruling planet, Uranus, for their tumultuous ways. 

*Birthstone poetry reprinted from 'The Occult and Curative Powers of Precious Stones' by William T. Fernie, MD. Harper & Row (1981)

Art: Lucien Lévy-Dhurmer

Mercury enters Aquarius @ 11:41 AM, 5th House, the natural home of Leo ruled by the Sun. 

Mercury is exalted in Aquarius, thus embodies the visionary, out-of-the-box and innovative thinking of Aquarians. Mercury represents intellect and avenues of expression, whereas Aquarius represents imaginative and progressive thinking.

This coupling will produce an insatiable desire for knowledge and connection with like-minded. We can expect intellectual relatedness to increase while opening to new concepts and more inventive ways of being and creating. 

Being exalted in this Airy sign, Mercury, or Hermes in Greek mythology, feels completely relaxed and enabled as himself. Expression should be harmonious, as complementary forces are increased and the virtues magnified.

Deeper through the Decan & Tarot

Aquarius' first decan (00°-09°) is ruled by Venus and Saturn, representing reward through risk. While there may be initial feelings of restriction and countless stumbling blocks initially associated with this decan, there are also great gains to be had, as indicated by the presence of Venus. 

Perseverance is the goal through this decan. 

The Six of Swords minor arcana tarot card, known as "The Lord of Earned Success" represents Aquarius' second Decan (10°-19°), doubly ruled by Mercury himself. We can begin to see the results of our tenacity when we reach this decan the morning of January 26th. 

Remember this date if you feel like giving up. 

As the god of short journeys, Mercury is also a psychopomp associated with the ferryman, Charon, who transports souls over the river Styx. Mercury is one of the few gods who could enter Hades at will, not fearing Death. 

This could be metaphorically associated with end-of-life rewards just as gains here on earth.  

Mercury fully understands Aquarian's innovative visions and goals and enables us to navigate challenging terrains and liminal spaces. 

This face also highlights merchants and travel. Indicating movement in those who own businesses, and perhaps a raise for employees. 

T. Susan Chang believes this card indicates the ability of "problem solving. . .excellent for symbol manipulation and masterful at metaphor. It's good for writing your way out of a paper bag and thinking outside of the box." 

This transit indicates that It's a perfect time to roll up our sleeves and persevere through any perceived obstacles for gains. It's also an opportune time for deep reflection and probing possibilities. 

There may be something under the surface that we missed the first time around that will become more apparent with focus and a mind open to receive.

A caveat is Aquarian's Fixed quality, which could add a bit of an obstinate stance in regard to its beliefs; therefore, avoid the expectation of perfectionism or being overly critical of others. Focus on your visions, goals, and persevere toward your rewards. 

 Art: Star Goddess by Diane Morrison

Astrea, known as the Star goddess, enters Aquarius @ 4:59 AM, 3rd house, the natural home of Gemini ruled by Mercury.

Astraea & the Significance of Asteroids in Astrology

In Greek Mythology, Astraea, also known as the Star Goddess or Maiden, was renowned as the virgin god of justice, innocence, purity, and precision. She was beloved by the Greeks and thought to represent the Light in the world during what scholars have referred to as 'The Golden Age'. 

The Golden Age (Age of Innocence) was one of the five Ages of Man in the old Greek religion. In mythology, the ages represented the history of human existence and its subsequent deterioration. Astraea came to symbolize humanity's fall and the hope that a new age of innocence would return. 

As to her origins, there are differing stories; however, the widest accepted is that she herself is a descendant of the Titans. According to Hesiod’s Theogony, her father was the second-generation TITAN, Astraeus, the astrological GOD OF DUSK. Her mother was EOS, the goddess of the dawn. 

Astraea is also considered the feminine principle of Hephaistos, the masculine representation of work, order, integration and disintegration. 

Before the use of the asteroids, the ONLY significators of the feminine in traditional chart interpretation were the Moon and Venus. The socially acceptable roles for women were the Moon as mother and Venus as mate. 

This began to change when the first four feminine asteroids were discovered in the 19th century when the women’s movement, led by Susan B Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton, sought to increase women’s participation in society.

These seeds did not bear fruit, however, until the early 1970s, at the same time Elenor Bach published the first asteroid ephemeris. At this point, the aspects of feminine expression fully entered into the consciousness of humanity. Women became imbued with seed possibilities of feminine creativity and intelligence that transcended the traditional roles of mother and wife. 

Consequentially, society saw the widespread entrance of women into the fields of politics, arts, education, sports, and other professional careers. It also marked a time of rediscovery of women’s history and the revival of the Goddess in women’s spirituality.

Astraea in the Third

The third house is the natural home of Gemini ruled by Mercury, currently traversing Aquarius himself. The Third represents social aspects such as community, financial institutions, and even the gym. Here routine is performed without much conscious thought. It also represents childhood, sibling relationships, communication, and daytrips. 

Astraea in Aquarius 

According to Ovid, Virgo is Astraea's natural home, and both are endowed with the same qualities. Virgo's true origins in Greek mythology reflect Astraea, the goddess of innocence and justice; thus, many believe they are one in the same. To know Astraea is to know Virgo's earthly qualities, and to know Virgo is to know Astraea's heavenly qualities. 

However, to understand her Aquarian placement is to understand where she came from. 

For balance and justice, Libra and the part she played in this triad is imperative to know. 

Considered an intermediary sign along with Virgo and Scorpio, Libra is a part of a transformative trifecta that brings a person from individualized consciousness (Aries thru Leo) into collective consciousness (Sagittarius thru Pisces). 

In Virgo, the individual perfects and integrates oneself so that they may enter into the sign of partnership, Libra, as a whole and complete individual. Here we become aware of the "other" for the first time. 

Communication that leads to sustained interaction is the groundwork for the final transmutation in Scorpio, the Alchemist, where the personal "I" dies and totally submerges, interpenetrates, and unifies with the other. The union of "I" into "We" becomes the gateway into the collective awareness symbolized by Sagittarius. 

This trifecta is reflected in the world at large, particularly in the U.S., having experienced its Pluto return.  We experienced our exact degree-based return three times in 2022. We are now in a position to acclimate the age of Aquarius. 

Powerful shifts are occurring across the planet and individually. This transit prompts us to broaden our horizons through study or become stagnant, entrapped by toxic beliefs. Osho once said that the go exists off friction and feeds off our desire to be something else. This is why the ego exists, for this very lesson. 

The ego dies by accepting who we are in the moment and desiring to be nothing else or nowhere else. The reconciliation of what is desired with what currently is creates the balance within us. This balance facilitates the death of the ego because what we've done or achieved no longer matters here in the present.

The power of Astraea in Scorpio was alchemical transformation from within, from me, myself, and I, to we, us, and they, and thus solidifies in Sagittarius. This process began by submerging ourselves into justice, innocence, purity, and awareness in the present moment of life rather than ignoring it for a desire. 

Astraea's strong rulership association is with the three transitional signs, Scorpio being the final piece of the trifecta; therefore, they function as the active agents in these signs that facilitate the transformation from individual to collective awareness. 

In Sagittarius that awareness becomes straightforward, philosophical, and freedom-loving from constraints, having experienced the alchemical process of transformation in Scorpio. 

Just and scholarly, Astraea in Sagittarius expands our visualization into profound understanding and broadminded optimism that is both philosophical and religious.

In Capricorn, we take all of the above and get down to business by manifesting our goals through dedication, commitment, and hard work. It's imperative that we balance our ambition and hard-wired focus with downtime. This can be communing in nature or enjoying time with close family or friends.

In Aquarius, invention and a focus on justice through humanitarian efforts increase. Here tradition can be broken or enhanced to compensate for personal freedom. 

Commitment to causes that we truly care about, particularly involving injustice, increases and our desire for equality and balance solidifies. We can also expect an increased desire for the pursuit of intellectual pathways that manifest visions for the greater collective.

Astraea's journey through the signs isn't just about our actions but our healing. This is accomplished by demonstrating a high standard of morals and ethics in all that we do in Love, relationships, and work.  When we act against what we know to be true, we wound ourselves or deepen an existing wound a little bit more. 

Advocating for others who are unable to defend themselves will likely be a theme throughout this transit. It may also be a trigger to past injustices that we may have experienced. These are signals of unhealed wounds within us. We can heal them through forgiveness and focusing our support on others less fortunate.

Living and expressing ourselves authentically also serves as a balm to our spirit when we align with our values through integrity. This builds harmonious and accepting relationships. 

Remember, Astraea’s journey is not just about external actions; it’s also about internal healing. By nurturing your own sense of balance and wholeness, we can become a beacon of harmony and inspire others to do the same.

Astraea will remain in Aquarius until April, when she will enter Pisces.

Art: Ai Lan

Mars enters Aquarius @4:17 AM EST, third house, the natural home of Gemini ruled by Mercury: Our Fight Song

Mars transiting Aquarius portends a highly individualistic transit filled with a desire for freedom of expression combined with progressive ideas that are both artistic and scientific. Uranus, representing the upper octave of Mercury, rules Aquarius and is known as the awakener representing the freedom urge.

This energy encompasses metaphysical interests such as magic, the occult, astrology, psychology, and heralds' sudden change. This change can be accompanied by altruistic and humane endeavors focusing on community and the world at large. 

Aquarius is a visionary who sees the big picture, representing paradigm shifts, while Mars is the courageous warrior who clears the path.

On the flipside, this coupling can also produce eccentric, bohemian, egotistical, or utopian behavior. The energy, determination, and unstoppable drive of Mars combined with a tolerant and logical Aquarius can lead humanity in positive or negative steps, depending on the aggressive and often impulsive actions of Mars and rebellious temperament of Aquarius.

Mars may jump the gun, eager to begin something, but their natives are not well-known to complete it. This is where clear-minded Aquarius assumes the completion through intellectual and revolutionary measures. We're talking genius breakthroughs.

Aquarius armed with Mars is a fight song that encourages us to stand up for what we believe, and we'll have the courage to fight for needed change. However, this war won't involve bullets or heavy artillery; it will involve strategic mental capabilities.

Aquarius is the one sign who understands that traditional ways acting haven't or won't produce the desires results; thus, the only way to accomplish a goal is outside of the box—to strategize and act in radically different methods that shift the poles of belief.

Mars is a conqueror and fights battle by battle for what he wants. However, Aquarius focuses on a global scale; therefore, grave injustice toward the greater whole won't go overlooked. 

As the humanitarian of the zodiac, Aquarius will utilize its intellect and the energy of Mars to produce viable solutions for humankind.

This is a revolution of reformation. 

This is OUR Fight Song for positive change, something in the form of unexpected and unprecedented—the exact thing that miracles are made of.

Art: La Danse Triomphale de Pallas Athénée

Pallas Athene enters Pisces  @ 2:25 PM, 7th House.

Pallas Athene & the Significance of Asteroids

The Greeks worshipped Pallas Athene, goddess of wisdom and justice, as patroness of the arts and protectress of the state. 

Through her all-encompassing perception, she gave wise counsel to the people of the earth.

In her role as daughter, she symbolizes the principle of creative intelligence giving birth to thought forms. Through her knowledge of the natural laws of manifestation, she functions as one’s capacity for realization and accomplishment.

Pallas Athene, the favorite daughter of Jupiter, was believed to be conceived by himself and birthed from his head. 

Symbolically, she is one of four asteroids who represent aspects of the archetypal feminine principle that began to emerge into mass consciousness during the feminist movements of the 19th century.

Before the use of the asteroids, the ONLY significators of the feminine in traditional chart interpretation were the Moon and Venus. The socially acceptable roles for women were the Moon as mother and Venus as mate. 

This began to change when the first four feminine asteroids were discovered in the 19th century when the women’s movement, led by Susan B Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton, sought to increase women’s participation in society.

These seeds did not bear fruit, however, until the early 1970s, at the same time Elenor Bach published the first asteroid ephemeris. At this point, the aspects of feminine expression fully entered into the 

consciousness of humanity. 

Women became imbued with seed possibilities of feminine creativity and intelligence that transcended the traditional roles of mother and wife. 

Consequentially, society saw the widespread entrance of women into the fields of politics, arts, education, sports, and other professional careers. It also marked a time of rediscovery of women’s history and the revival of the Goddess in women’s spirituality.

Pallas in the Seventh

Pallas in the 7th House indicates a possession of strong meditating and counseling abilities. One's creative wisdom and skills can be used to improve interpersonal relations. There could be difficulty indicated here with intimate domain as some may view a conflict between relationship and creativity. Often these individuals operate better in impersonal relationships then in personal ones.

Pallas in Pisces

Pallas in Pisces reveals a diffuse perception. One "sees" through merging oneself in between the spaces of dense reality and experiencing a direct contact with the object. A healer, she excels in psychic and faith healing. 

Success can be achieved through the psychological techniques of guided imagery, fantasy, and dream interpretation, as well as meditation, devotion, spiritual guides, and spiritual practices.

Aesthetically, she brings out the poetic, inspirational, and illusory qualities in artistic expression. There exists creative skill in the media of film and photography, which play with light and illusion, and in ethereal music (synthesizer), which evokes feeling.

Politically, Pallas Athene in Pisces can be a proponent of non-violent resistance: turning the other cheek or refusing to fight. She is also the enlightened warrior, the bodhisattva, and the martyr. The wisdom of Pallas in Pisces is the wisdom of compassion—the recognition of the universal suffering and desire for happiness that permeates humanity.

It's beneficial to determine where Pallas Athene resides in your natal chart: Zodiac sign, House, and aspects she is making to other planets for a deeper insight into yourself.

References:

• Mythology: Ancient World Magazine, Theoi

• Asteroid Goddesses by Demetra George & Douglas Bloch