Winter solstice astrological forecasts

Winter solstice, or Capricorn ingress, came at 4:49 AM GMT on Dec. 22. It was at the nadir of the charts of Washington DC and NYC, being at 11:49 PM EST. The nature of winter solstice, the darkest day of the year, is perfectly expressed in these charts in the US, so these are the ones that give the best overall idea what to expect in the coming three months, or the period up to spring equinox, on March 20, 2016.

The most outstanding things about this chart are the strength of earth element, the Sun, Moon, Mercury, Jupiter, and Pluto all being in earth signs. The Sun is in Capricorn in the 4th house, the Moon is in Taurus in the 8th, Mercury and Pluto are in Capricorn in the 4th, and Jupiter is in Virgo in the 12th, all forming a grand trine in earth in terminal houses; and the predominance of good aspects, giving the sense that this winter will tend to be less violent than it has been over the past months.
The predominance of earth also gives a down to earth, practical sense to all affairs and activities these coming months. It all basically comes down to business, money, health, home, and the like.
As mentioned above, the charts have a grand trine aspect of Moon, Mercury and Jupiter in the 8th, 4th, and 12th houses, these having to do with settlings of affairs. Moon, Mercury, and Jupiter in good aspect with each other also brightens the mind and promotes business and financial affairs. Moon is exalted in Taurus. This period is basically good for business.
Jupiter is weak in Virgo, His trine aspects to Moon and Mercury, while not as positive as they would be in a better sign, are good nonetheless. His trine will improve conditions of public welfare. It also suggests positive developments in areas of medicine, pharmaceuticals, chemistry, and food production.
Mercury in the 4th house, in grand trine with Moon and Jupiter, while good for agriculture, forms a square aspect with Mars in the 2nd house in Libra, a weak placement, warning of losses of money due to damage to land and houses because of storms. It also points to unseasonable weather, and possible trouble connected to mining, or possible losses in mining stocks. It also points to a fairly uncertain real estate market this winter.
Mercury is also sextile to Venus. Venus is in the 2nd house in Scorpio. The 2nd house is good for Venus, but Scorpio is weak for her. Mercury in 4 square Mars in 2, and sextile Venus in 2 shows fairly volatile market conditions. But, Mars and Venus, being in each other's sign, are in mutual reception, acting well in finances, and promoting lively conditions and exchanges, so volatility becomes productive. By this winter solstice chart, market and financial conditions look pretty good this winter.
Moon is in the 8th house opposite Venus in the 2nd. This points to an increasing death rate. Because it is Moon in opposition to Venus, it affects women primarily. It also points to the death of a famous woman. Moon in 8 opposite Venus in 2, and opposite mutual reception Mars in 2, also points to financial losses. Dealings are tricky: some win, some lose. Nonetheless, the grand trine of Moon, Jupiter, and Mercury, and the mutual reception of Venus and Mars support gains over losses.
Pluto and Uranus are still square one another, so, the same political and social turmoil in the world with its possibilities of violence, despite all the good indications in these charts, will continue through the winter.
Saturn is trine Uranus now. This points to technological advances. Saturn in Sagittarius, and Uranus in Aries puts this most likely in the area of rocketry and fast travel such as high speed rails.

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Horary astrological question: will there be a war.

Upon news of the escalating conditions over Syria between Turkey (NATO) and Russia, this question came up. A horary chart was drawn up on November 29 at 4:27 PM EDT in NYC to see where it is trending.

The rules for determining whether there will be a war involve the rulers of the 1st and 7th houses and the Moon. There will be a war if the rulers of the 1st and 7th houses are square or in opposition to one another from angular houses. In this chart, Mercury, ruler of the 1st house, is forming square to Jupiter, ruler of the 7th house from the 7th house. Mercury and Jupiter are both in signs of their detriment, bringing out their worst, and are in mutual reception, agreeing to disagree.

War is coming.

The Moon is at 28 degrees 11 minutes in the 3rd house opposite the Part of Fortune at 28 degrees Capricorn 48 minutes in the 9th house. It confirms the prediction. It does not bode well.

How far it goes is not clear at this point.

An astrological view of Mars in Libra

All planetary ingresses into the different signs are traditionally taken as indicators of coming developments in the world. Mars entered Libra on Thursday, November 12, at 9:42 PM GMT. Mars stays in Libra until January 3, 2016. This is what it tells us.

Libra is the sign of Mars' detriment. Libra is the sign of love and war, marriage and divorce. It is the sign of open enmity. Libra is justice. Mars in Libra can act vengefully. Mars in Libra can do his worst. The events of the first week of Mars' in Libra were terrorist attacks in Paris, Nigeria, and Mali. Turkey, on 11/24 downed a Russian fighter jet over Syria. Were Mars' applying to good aspects with benefic planets upon entering Libra it would be safe to say that the war gods would calm down. But, that's not going to happen. Mars' aspects in the Libra ingress chart are the following.

First, the separating aspects.
Moon was in Sagittarius separating from sextile with Mars;
Mars and the north lunar node were separating from conjunction;
Venus was separating from conjunction with Mars.
The Moon and Venus show the dissolving of more or less constructive, peaceful activity. The north lunar node shows a fatality. It showed up in the Paris terrorist attack. The constructive, peaceful activity is, of course, only relative to what will follow.

Second, the applying aspects.
Mars forms a sextile with Saturn;
Mars forms a square with Pluto;
Mars forms opposition with Uranus.
The sextile with Saturn is constructive. But, Saturn in Sagittarius does not hold. Sagittarius is a peregrine sign for Saturn. Saturn does not jell there, and can act with violent cruelty. While constructive talks may take place, since Libra likes to negotiate, they will not hold. Nothing constructive can be expected to last.
Mars square with Pluto is highly destructive. There is underground, criminal violence in world affairs, in other words, more terrorism to be anticipated in the coming weeks.
Mars opposition Uranus is explosive.

Libra rules Austria, China, the Caspian Sea area (in Russia), Argentina.

In China, the ingress of Mars into Libra was in the 11th house. This brings heated discussions to parliament. Military and police matters are cause for much discussion.

In Argentina, Mars was in the 5th house. This brings trouble to theaters and schools; there are dangers of fires in these places as well as in places where there are big parties; also deaths to famous artists, actors, and singers is indicated; also crime against women and children. Immediately following Mars' ingress into Libra the Government changed. Mars in the 5th house also points to troubled diplomatic relations in the coming weeks.

In Austria, Mars was in the 2nd house showing financial losses and huge expenditures and waste of public money. If Austria engages in any military activity it will seriously worsen the national economy.

In the Caspian area, we see Russian ships sending missiles into Syria at ISIS.

In UK and the EU in general, Mars was in the 3rd house. This affects roads, rails, and communications. There is great danger in traveling. Mars coming opposition to Uranus warns of air crashes.

In Israel, as in Austria, Mars was in the 2nd house. This shows huge expenses for Israel in struggling with the terrorists.

In the US, as in Argentina, Mars was in the 5th house. Mars coming to square Pluto, with Pluto in the 9th house, and then to opposition Uranus, with Uranus in the 12th house, shows dangers of underground terrorist activities in the US.

Mars comes to square Pluto around December 3 - 6, and then opposition Uranus December 10 - 12. These may be more volatile periods, but the prospect of danger around holiday periods must not be overlooked.

Interesting to note, the charts of the countries ruled by Libra all have Mars in succedent houses (11th, 2nd, and 5th). This suggests that the unstable conditions in the world these weeks will cause the stock markets to be volatile.

Uranus is in the 10th house of the New York Stock Exchange. When Mars comes to opposition Uranus in the 2nd week of December the market will probably react by dropping. It does not mean a crash, however.

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Scorpio 2015 in astrology

The Sun entered Scorpio at 6:48 PM GMD on October 23. A chart made for the moment of the Sun's entry in that sign shows in general what to expect for the month ending on November 22.

The aspects to note are as follows. Moon is separating from conjunction with Neptune in Pisces, applying to opposition Venus, Jupiter, and Mars in Virgo. Moon is also applying to sextile Pluto in Capricorn. These aspects of the Moon point to an atmosphere of confusion, waste, violence, and upset.
Mars at 17 degrees Virgo is in a critical degree, denoting crisis. The Moon in opposition with Mars points to violent military and/or police activity. Mars in Virgo points to such countries Turkey, Syria, Iraq, Greece, Croatia, Kurdistan, Switzerland and to such cities as Jerusalem and Paris.
Moon's opposition Mars may signal upset in areas related to Pisces and Virgo, namely oil, things connected with water, the ocean, destructive storms; also foods, medicines, labor, services both military and civil. Moon's opposition Mars, especially coming from her conjunction with Neptune, points to unexpected terrorist acts.
A mitigating aspect is found in Venus, Jupiter, and Pluto trine Pluto, and the Moon sextile Pluto. Pluto is in Capricorn. This shows a trend through all the turmoil to come to order. The Sun is also trine to Neptune. This will help calm down the situation.
Mercury is applying to opposition Uranus. Through it all we can expect the situation to be spiked with vicious lies, accusations, and threats. This will not help calm the situation this month.
The majority of planets in mutable signs shows the situation unstable and complicated.

The charts for the UK and EU have Moon and Neptune in the 11th house in opposition to Venus, Jupiter, and Mars in the 5th house. There is considerable bickering and confusion in the respective Parliaments. The Sun is in the 6th house showing a general feeling of distress in Europe. Saturn is in the 7th house applying to square Neptune to intensify the confusion and fear developing with respect to the influx of migrants. Moon rules the 3rd house. In conjunction with Neptune this points to misleading reports from news media.

The chart for Jerusalem has Moon and Neptune in the 10th house opposite Venus, Jupiter, and Mars in the 4th house. Mercury is in the 5th house in opposition to Uranus in the 11th. There is sharp arguing going on in the Knesset. The Moon's opposition with the planets in Virgo show continuing turmoil in the land through the month. It's not going away so fast.

The chart for the US has the Moon in the 2nd house opposite Venus, Jupiter, and Mars in the 8th. Mercury is also in the 8th. The main concern is money. Losses are indicated. The market will be volatile.

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Astrological view of Israel's future in light of Netanyahu's speech to the UN

A horary astrological chart was drawn up t 4:16 PM, EDT in NYC on October 1, 2015 to look into the future of this matter. Here is what it shows.

The 2nd house of the chart rules the future. Mars is the ruler of the 2nd house. Mars is in interception in the 7th house at 4 degrees Virgo. 4 Degrees Virgo is a critical degree. Mars is in opposition to Neptune retrograde in the 1st house. The 7th house is the house of open enmity. There is danger of war. The situation is critical. The intercepted condition of Mars limits the scope of this danger, but does not negate it. There is terrorist violence coming against Israel to say the least.
Neptune is retrograde and intercepted in the 1st house. Neptune is a co-ruler of the 1st house. Opposite Mars it shows terrorism from inside Israel as well as from outside her borders. Neptune retrograde shows retro-action, meaning it is already in preparation. Neptune is at 7 degrees Pisces mutually approaching opposition with Mars. Mars and Neptune reach exact opposition in 3 degrees. In time the violence may spike in about three days, October 3, then next week around October 6th, and, as per horary astrological timing, in 3 weeks, or later October. The Sun, ruler of the 7th house is applying to opposition Uranus, ruler of the 1st house, confirming this prediction of escalating violence. The Sun and Uranus, however, are in the 8th and 2nd houses, succeedent houses, limiting the scope of the violence. If it were in cardinal houses it would mean out and out war.

Uranus, ruler of the 1st house is retrograde in the 2nd house. Uranus is a malefic planet. Retrograde, it says that what develops will be costly.

Mercury, the co-ruler of the 7th house, is combust and retrograde. The enemies are weak as shown by the combust condition, and change their plans as shown by the retrograde condition. Mercury is in wide trine to the Ascendent. These changes favor Israel.

Moon in this chart is at 00 degrees Gemini, at the threshold, or brink. Moon forms 8 aspects:

opposite Saturn
Square Mars
Trine Mercury retrograde
Square Neptune
Trine Sun
Square Jupiter
Sextile Uranus
Sextile Venus

In a nutshell this says what starts badly ends well. The matter gets off to a very bad, violent start, but ends well, and peacefully.

Israel is probably going to be attacked by the terrorists while the UN either remains silent or applauds the terrorists. The terrorists will, nonetheless, be put down. While no major war is coming to Israel at this point, the situation is critical.

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Astrological view of the lunar eclipse of September 28, 2015.

The lunar eclipse happened at 3:39 AM, GMD, September 28, or 10:49 PM, EDT, September, 27. It was at 4:39 Aries. The effects of the eclipse last three months, or through the entire fall season on and off depending on planetary transits to the eclipse degree.

The eclipse was visible from central Asia, west across Europe, West Africa, the Atlantic, North America and South America, as well as part of Antarctica. The total eclipse was visible in Western Europe, West Africa, the eastern part of North America, and all of South America.

The eclipse was at the zenith of the sky at the longitude of Montreal, New York City (ca.74 degrees west), and down through the Caribbean, and through Colombia and the western part of South America. This may cause seismic and volcanic activity in areas along that line that are prone to such. It is possible that earthquakes can be triggered along other fault lines in North or South America as well. The eclipse can also cause fires, and/or volcanic eruptions. It will also bring violent weather. A hurricane may come to the east coast of the US.
The eclipse was opposite Mercury retrograde in Libra, and trine Saturn in Sagittarius.
Saturn was forming a T-square with Mars and Neptune. Mars was the Moon's dispositor, therefore significant. The Moon trine Saturn invites the T-square to manifest.  A T-square of Saturn, Mars, and Neptune is destructive, potentially chaotic, and does not help mitigate the effects of the eclipse. This eclipse is therefore destructive.
Mercury retrograde opposite the eclipse doesn't help either. It causes stress and poor, dishonest, unreliable, and broken communication.

The eclipse at the zenith at NYC is significant for the world, as NYC is a major financial capitol, and is the main seat of the UN. Aries, the sign in which this eclipse happened, is also in the mid-heaven of the chart of the NYSE (New York Stock Exchange). The eclipse at the zenith in NYC brings trouble, quarrels, and unpopularity in and to the government, and is problematic for business. The eclipse opposite Mercury retrograde in the 5th house causes diplomatic tensions, quarrels, bad faith, confusions, and agreements and decisions that won't long be kept. Lots of vain posturing went on in the UN. The stock market will continue to behave erratically this fall.

The eclipse was in the descendant in the Middle East as seen in the eclipse charts for Egypt, the entire Arabian Peninsula, Syria, Lebanon, and Israel. This eclipse seriously aggravates already violent activity in the region. International relations there are unstable and are prone to change. The eclipse opposite retrograde Mercury in the 1st house there says that no one can be trusted to keep their word. Trickery is the order of the day along with enmity and rivalry. It is also a dangerous time for the House of Al Saud. This eclipse is also extremely unfortunate for women in the region.

A lunar eclipse in the 1st decanate of Aries points to fires. It produces sensational public events, quarrels, fights, riots, murders, wars, movements of armies, squandering of money, deaths of heads of states, and insanity.

Countries ruled by Aries, therefore also affected by this eclipse, include England, Germany, Denmark, Poland, Syria, and Israel. The cities of Florence and Naples are under Aries as well. There could be an earthquake in Italy.

The eclipse in the charts for the UK and EU is in the 8th house, opposite Sun and Mercury in the 2nd. Huge amounts of money are being lost. This eclipse is unfortunate for the governments. Many deaths will come to the people. There could be sickness. This eclipse is bad for the health of Europe as a whole this fall. It also brings an increase in crimes of violence. It also points to the death and/or failing of a woman in a high position. Merkel is in a bad position.
In the UK and EU charts Mars is rising conjunct the Ascendant opposite Neptune in the 7th house, and square Saturn in the 4th. Jupiter is also in the 1st house opposite Neptune. In a nutshell, Europe and the UK are in turmoil. It is violent, and it involves those who are coming into Europe from abroad.

The eclipse in the chart for Washington DC is in the 11th house opposite Sun and retrograde Mercury in the 5th. This affects Congress adversely. There is a loss of a member shown. Boehner announced his resignation just before the eclipse. There may be a death in that circle as well. The eclipse also points to loss of this county's popularity abroad, and to the possible loss of an ally. There is also a lot of discord between the parties now. Neptune, in this chart, is in the 10th house opposite Mars and Jupiter in the 4th house, and square Saturn in the 6th. This is bad for the Government. The Government loses power and/or popularity. The square of Saturn to Neptune and Mars points to tensions between the Government and the military. It also points to discontentment among the working class, and much illness coming up in this country this fall.

The repercussions of the eclipse will be short and sharp, as none of the slow moving planets will set it off.
Venus will oppose and trigger the eclipse degree November 12.
Mercury will oppose and trigger it October 16. The Moon will oppose and trigger the eclipse degree October 11.
Mars will oppose and trigger the eclipse degree November 19 - 21.
The Moon will square, oppose, square, and come then to conjunction the eclipse degree every week. The effects of these aspects can gradually lessen over a three month period.

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An astrological view of autumn equinox

Autumn equinox came on September 23 at 9:22 AM, GMD. The charts give a vastly mixed picture. This is what appears.

The Sun at 00:00 Libra, in the same degree as the north lunar node 00:53 Libra, and Saturn at 00:23 Sagittarius, points to a potentially fateful, or fatal event coming this fall. Any planet, especially a malefic (in this case, Saturn) in the same degree as the lunar node, no matter from which sign, points to a fatality. Both the Sun and Saturn are approaching exact conjunction and sextile the node, respectively. This may point to a number of events all interconnected, but the effect appears fateful, or fatal.
In the US the Sun and north lunar node are in the 2nd house. The 2nd house has to do with the economic conditions of the country and an unstable stock market. Saturn is in the 4th house. The 4th house has to do with the land itself. Because Saturn is there, and, at the time of the equinox is also square to Mars, it could point to a mining disaster, severe weather events, or a big earthquake which, if it did happen, would affect the economy. We must also note that the shadow of the total lunar eclipse coming on September 28 and running across the Americas may confirm this. Other possible readings for Saturn in the 4th house include collapse of a building or failure of elements of the infrastructure, and a general slowing down of the real estate market for the fall quarter, and possibly more houses going into foreclosure.
In the UK and EU the Sun and north lunar node are in the 11th house, and Saturn is in the 2nd house. Saturn is square Mars in the 10th house. This points to upsets in the governments, connected to financial issues. Mars in the 10th house square Saturn, with Mars ruling the 7th house points to volent fighting in Europe. Mars afflicted in the 10th house also points to failures in governance and deaths in high circles. Leaders are in disgrace, and are losing the support of the people.
In the region of Moscow down through the Middle East the Sun and north lunar node are in the 10th house with Saturn  conjunct the Ascendant and in the 1st house. There are huge upsets in the government circles. It is probably pointing at Syria. Saturn in the 1st house square Mars in the 9th house points to religious conflicts. Terrorism will continue with disastrous consequences for many people. Many will be massacred.
In China the Sun and north node are in the 7th house with Saturn in the 9th house square Mars in the 7th. This brings challenges in international relations and trade.

A mitigating aspect is found with Venus. Venus in Leo is in mutual reception with the Sun. But, as it doesn't take the Sun out of the degree of the north node, the mitigation does not entirely save the day. What Venus in mutual reception with the Sun does is make the entire situation more flexible. What Venus does, since she is the Sun's dispositor, and because she forms trine aspect with Uranus, is soften the otherwise bad signs. In the end you can say it could have been much worse.

Venus is the dispositor of the Sun. Venus' aspects will therefore bear on the situation, and in this case, in a favorable way. Venus is forming a trine aspect with Uranus, bringing great luck and a stroke of genius.
In the US Venus is in the 12th house and Uranus is in the 8th. This points to spiritual forces working for the good of this land and people. Because the Sun is in the 2nd house it points to increasing prosperity. The stock market will behave erratically, but there will be gains, possibly windfalls. Also, the Moon is in the 5th house, forming a trine aspect with the Sun. This is very fortunate. Whatever upsets are coming in the US this fall will be mitigated by these aspects. Jupiter is in the 1st house of the chart for the US, showing an increase in business and trade, and increasing prosperity. But, Jupiter is in opposition with Neptune in the 7th house. This dampens the upswing to a degree, and warns of treachery, schemes, double dealing, and secret plots from rogue foreign sources, possibly involving hackers or cyber attacks.
In the UK and EU Venus is in the 10th house with Uranus in the 6th. It is possible that the turmoil and violent disturbances that will be developing will force the governments to pay better attention to improving services for their own people.
In the region of Moscow down through the Middle East Venus is in the 9th house with Uranus in the 5th. This points to diplomacy. This will help mitigate the violent situation so that it does not blow up altogether.
In China Venus is in the 7th with Uranus in the 2nd. The stock market may take some surprising turns, have some welcome surges. Venus in the 7th house points to foreign investors. The Chinese chart for the equinox has the north node, the Sun, Jupiter, Mars, and Venus all in the 7th house. This gives tremendous emphasis on Chinese foreign relations this fall.

Mercury at the equinox was retrograde. It was applying to square Pluto. This is not a good sign. It points to treachery in diplomatic and business dealings.
In the US Mercury is in the 2nd house with Pluto in the 5th. This shows crooked stock market manipulations. Venus is the dispositor of Mercury. Venus is trine Uranus. The insiders stand to gain huge windfalls.
In the UK and EU Mercury is in the 12th house with Pluto in the 3rd. This points to lying, media manipulation, and potential dangers of terrorist activities in the streets and in public transportation. Pluto, in Capricorn and intercepted in the 3rd house, points to the underground, possibly meaning subways and tunnels. Venus, the dispositor of Mercury, is in the 10th house trine Uranus in the 6th. The governments will do well to avoid strikes and insubordination in military and police services. Both Mars, ruler of the 7th house, and Venus, ruler of the 1st house, in the 10th house of the UK and EU charts point to troubles that the governments will face coming from their own people and from foreign elements. Mars square Saturn in the 2nd house shows serious economic pressures and wide spread poverty. Jupiter in the 11th house opposite Neptune in the 4th shows agitation against the government coming from people.
In the region from Russia down through the Middle East Mercury is in the 11th house with Pluto in the 2nd. Pluto rules the 12th house, and Mercury rules the 7th. It shows international criminal financial dealings for the sponsoring of terrorist groups. The fact that Mercury is retrograde makes it more underhanded. Pluto is at direct station, giving this fact tremendous emphasis.
In China Mercury is in the 10th house with Pluto in the 2nd. The Government is connected unfavorably with secret money and market manipulations.

Pluto was at direct station at the equinox. Because it is in Capricorn, it gives tremendous emphasis to matters of political and corporate organization. The direct station greatly accents the affects of Pluto through the fall season. While we have seen some of this already in the US with Boehner announcing that he is stepping down, and the ugly noise around Martin Shkreli, we find in the equinox chart of Australia Pluto in the 10th house square Mercury in the 7th. International treachery will cause extremely difficult problems for the government. Pluto in the 10th house square Mercury in the 7th, and square Uranus in the 1st house could bring strikes and violence. The people are becoming fed up.

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Astrological view of Saturn in Sagittarius

Saturn entered Sagittarius on Sept. 18, 2015 at 3:49 AM GMD. Earlier on, Saturn entered Sagittarius on December 23, 2014, then turned retrograde on March 15, 2015, went back into Scorpio on June 15, turned direct in Scorpio on August 2, and is now in Sagittarius where he will stay until he enters Capricorn on December 20, 2017. What Saturn means for the world now and up to the end of 2017 can be read from the heavens at the moment of his entry into Sagittarius on the 18th.


First, Saturn is peregrine in Sagittarius. This means he can wander off course, go to extremes, and have little, if any patience in Sagittarius. Saturn can even act tyrannically in Sagittarius.

Sagittarius, in a universal sense, embraces philosophy, religion, science, universities, all forms of higher learning, the higher mind, international travel, international trade, publishing, ceremonies, legalizing, large scale entertainments, and so on. With Saturn in Sagittarius the religious arguments will become much more serious, seriousness being the key word for Saturn. Serious issues involving legalizing in international trade and travel will come up; far reaching scientific discoveries will be made; legal problems involving organization of publishing companies and between the publishing industry and the monopolizing on-line corporations will also come up. This will be a challenging time for a number of universities for a number of different reasons. Lots of arguments over legalizing will come in the world because of political fighting. Be cautious if attending large scale entertainment events such as games because of the possibilities of terrorism.


Countries, regions, groups, and cities under Sagittarius include all of Araby, Spain, Hungary, Australia, southern France (Province), Budapest, Cologne, and so on. We can expect huge problems to continue to grow in and from the Arab countries and the entire middle east and north Africa. We see already the tension in Hungary. It will continue and deepen. It is becoming a serious issue for the EU. The United States is ruled by Gemini. The polarity of Gemini and Sagittarius brings this country directly face to face with these developments. Australia is also facing some severe political challenges.


If the aspects in the chart of Saturn's entry into Sagittarius were good and easy the above predictions wouldn't stand. But, unfortunately that isn't the case. The aspects are as follows.


Saturn is just separating from square to Mars, and applying to square to Neptune and square to Jupiter. Jupiter is in opposition to Neptune. Saturn is also semi-square to Mercury and semi-square to Pluto. Mercury is square to Pluto. In a nutshell, Saturn's career in Sagittarius is starting out badly and will act destructively. The turmoil in and coming from the middle east will be big news for the next two years, according to Saturn.


Looking at the picture more closely, Saturn's dispositor is Jupiter (Sagittarius is ruled by Jupiter.) Jupiter is in Virgo, the sign of his detriment, and is in opposition with Neptune. Talk of communications with, and an invasion by ETs notwithstanding, confusions, insane opinions, lies, and deceptions will continue to come to us from the media. The Jupiter opposition Neptune corrupts Saturn's path through Sagittarius. We can expect more baffling and nefarious chicanery to infect international relations affecting trade and communications.

That Saturn entered Sagittarius when he was square Jupiter, and Jupiter was in opposition with Neptune also says that the markets are enjoying a rough ride. The north lunar node moving up towards Leo gives reason for some optimism, but the square of Saturn and Jupiter is forcing corrections. This is a tricky time for investors. Jupiter opposite Neptune is pointing to problems in the areas of oil, food, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals. Another way of looking at this, some people are going to get extremely rich while others lose their shirts.


Mercury was retrograde at Saturn's entry into Sagittarius. Mercury was also semi-square Saturn and square Pluto. Mercury was at 15 degrees Libra, a degree denoting the fulcrum of the scales, or judgment. Retrograde, square Pluto, and semi-square Saturn, judgment is corrupt and affected by underworld criminal elements. International agreements cannot be trusted. If anything, this should teach us that our leaders are unconscious.


The Moon at the time of Saturn's entry to Sagittarius was in Scorpio forming two aspects, sextile Sun, and square Mars. Moon was waxing. Mars is the ruler of Scorpio. The final aspect of Moon square Mars harms the Moon. It means that increasing conflict is to be expected in the world.


In the charts for the UK and EU, Saturn is in the 4th house square Mars and Jupiter in the 1st house, with Neptune in the 7th house. The mood of the people is angry. They are being fooled by international trickery. Saturn afflicted in the 4th house will bring obstacles and difficulties to the governments, and there will be severe weather that will adversely affect agriculture. There may also be earthquakes. Nonetheless, Mercury retrograde in the 3rd house says that the  governments will change their minds and plans to the benefit of the people, and Sun in the 2nd house promises a brighter future. In other words, it is highly possible that the current governments will start to come apart. Watch to see what happens in Germany.


In the chart for the US, Saturn is in the 6th house, the 6th house having to do with military services, labor, and public health. Mars and Jupiter are in the 4th house opposite Neptune in the 10th house. There is discontentment with the Government. In these two years a lot of dirt will come out and will involve scandals involving people in the top circle, as well as some involving people in the military. Mercury is retrograde in the 5th house trine the Ascendant. Mercury is intercepted, Changes involving diplomatic relations, while made in secrecy, will be to the benefit of the people. Venus is in the 3rd house. We are at peace with our neighbors.


In the chart for China, Saturn is in the 1st house, Jupiter is in the 10th house, and Neptune in the 4th. Mercury is in the 11th house square Pluto in the 2nd. This does not look sanguine for Chinese business. Saturn afflicted in the 1st house brings want of work, loss of trade, and poverty. Pluto afflicted in the 2nd house confirms it, and warns of trickery adversely affecting the money and stock market. Sun and Jupiter in the 10th house makes the leaders rich; they look good, but Jupiter's opposition to Neptune, Neptune in the 4th house will bring trouble up. Financial corruption is a serious danger and the majority of the people are being burdened.


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Raphael gives personal astrological and psychic readings. For more information and to inquire about readings visit  www.raphaelsimons.com or contact me at simons.traphael@gmail.com

The solar eclipse of September 13, 2015

The solar eclipse of September 13 occurred at 7:55 AM GMD. It was a partial eclipse at 20 degrees Virgo, and was visible from the area of South Africa down to Antarctica. The effects of a solar eclipse are periodic through at least one year, and can extend up to three. This eclipse will be followed by a total lunar eclipse on September 28 at 4 degrees Aries.

An eclipse over the ice shelf of Antarctica suggests that there could be a break in the ice affecting the ocean in the southern hemisphere this coming summer.

A traditional reading of a solar eclipse in the 3rd decanate of Virgo points to troubles and adversity, with possible imprisonment of artists and those who live by their wits, in other words, dissidents.

The eclipse is involved in very few aspects. It forms only one aspect: sextile Saturn at 29 degrees Scorpio. An eclipse in Virgo has to do with food, supplies, and medicine. It's aspect with Saturn, especially in Scorpio, suggests want. 29 degrees is at the end of its tether, and gives something to weep about, as it is opposite the Pleiades, aka The Weeping Sisters. This points to many people in desperate straights.

Countries and regions ruled by Virgo include Turkey, Syria, Iraq, Kurdistan, the Greek islands, the Balkans, Switzerland, and so on. Cities ruled by Virgo include Paris, Jerusalem, and others.

Toward and around this eclipse we see the migration for better or worse of people coming up into Europe from those parts of the world ruled by Virgo.

The eclipse, as seen in the charts for UK and EU, is in the 12th house. This points to a huge burden on welfare and a rise in criminal activity to be expected over the coming months. Mercury is in the 1st house, square to Pluto in the 4th house, and opposite Uranus in the 7th house. The people, especially, as seen in Greece and eastern Europe, are alarmed. Disturbing reports will come out later this and next week when Mercury turns retrograde and Pluto turns direct.

The eclipse, as seen in the chart for the US, is in the 2nd house. Jupiter is also in the 2nd house. While this should bring a boost to stock market economic activity, it is not entirely reliable, and warns of stock market losses as well. Jupiter is opposite Neptune in the 8th house. It points out deceptive conditions. And the eclipse is quincunx to Uranus. Uranus is retrograde in Aries in the 10th house of the NYSE. It warns of erratic conditions. On the other side of the world, in China, the eclipse happens in the 8th house. Mars and Jupiter are in the 8th house as well, and Jupiter is in opposition with Neptune in the 2nd house warning of losses. The Chinese chart is the mirror opposite of the US chart. Both US and Chinese charts interact. Chinese conditions affect American conditions, and vice versa. Neptune in opposition with Jupiter confuses matters in both places. Manipulating the markets is tricky business. Neptune in the 2nd house in the Chinese chart denotes unfortunate manipulation of the markets.

Speaking of finances, Switzerland, the land of banks, is indicated as affected by this eclipse in Virgo. Virgo also rules foods and medicines, in other words, Big Ag, and Big Pharma, and related companies. Watch banks, agricultural corporations, food commodities, and pharmaceutical corporations. Merck is a Swiss pharmaceutical company.

The eclipse, as seen in the chart for Iran, is in the 10th house. Jupiter is in the 10th house as well. Jupiter is in detriment in Virgo, so not as strong. An eclipse in the 10th house bodes ill for the Government. The traditional reading for this is disaster. Because the eclipse was not visible in Iran the reading must be modified. Nonetheless, it does not look sanguine for the Government of that country. Saturn is in the 1st house in this chart. Saturn at 29 degrees Scorpio in the 1st house is very evil. It shows distress and discontentment. Pluto is in the 2nd house. Poverty is in Iran. All the hatred the Government generates in the people is misdirection. It is how the Government distracts attention from itself. Saturn is in mutual reception with Pluto. Saturn and Pluto are in semi-square aspect. It says ways around the trouble generate different kinds of trouble, including underground activity, possibly drug trafficking. Mercury in the 11th house is square Pluto in the 2nd house and opposite Uranus in the 5th house. There is a great deal of economic disorder and theft.

The eclipse, as seen in the chart for Australia, is in the 7th house. Jupiter is in the 6th opposite Neptune in the 12th. The eclipse in the 7th house brings difficulties in foreign relations, or conflicts with foreigners living in Australia.

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Jupiter in Virgo

Jupiter entered Virgo at 12:12 PM GMD on August 11. Jupiter remains in Virgo until September, 2016. Not that it is terribly evil, but Virgo is the sign of Jupiter's detriment. Wherever Jupiter is, we find increase. Virgo rules details. Jupiter increases the details in everything where, as the proverb goes, we are sure to find the devil. Jupiter is best at getting the all-inclusive bird's eye view which makes him the Philosopher's planet. In Virgo, however, this doesn't happen very easily. But, since Jupiter is the great benefic, we can also expect some good to come.

Virgo rules the following: foods, clothing, and medicine, chemicals, animals in general, bees, dairies, the armed services, civil services, the police, labor, employment and employees, farms and farming, crafts, industries, teachers, critics, editors, libraries and information, scientists, mathematicians, diseases in general, public health, doctors and nurses, life saving services, charitable and humane societies.
Jupiter in Virgo will magnify these areas. For example, we may see more effort being made to address the problems of world hunger; we may see important medical breakthroughs; the issues of chemical poisoning of the air and land will come more into the consciousness of the people; the issues of bee die offs will gain more notice; and the internet will see greater and greater development with more and more information being made available. On the down side we will see an increase in big agro, big pharma, GMOs, with corrupted science, misleading information, and so on. When Jupiter entered Virgo he was applying to opposition Neptune in Pisces. This is a sign of poisoning, criminality, and treachery. Be careful about food contamination, bad medicines, mislabeled products.

Countries under Virgo include Syria, Turkey, Iraq, Kurdestan, Greece, Egypt, Switzerland, Brazil, Uruguay.
Major cities under Virgo include Paris, Jerusalem, Los Angeles, Boston.
According to Jupiter we should hope to see some improvements coming to these places, notwithstanding the corruption that Jupiter's afflicted condition will bring.

The main aspects to and from Jupiter upon entering Virgo were the following:
Mercury was separating from conjunction with Jupiter, with both Mercury and Jupiter applying to opposition Neptune in Pisces. This multiplies details and makes for lots of confusion which will be used by criminal elements to take unfair advantage of the disturbed political and economic mess the world is in this year. This will set a tone for the developing political debates in the US. Jupiter will have entered Libra for justice by the time of the elections.
Jupiter was semi-square the Moon when he entered Virgo, the Moon applying to opposition Pluto. This increases underground criminal activity. We can expect, especially since Virgo rules Turkey, Syria, and Iraq, an increase in terrorist activity in that region with more destruction to world heritage sites, not to mention the massacres of innocent people. We can also expect more terrorism to develop in France, namely Paris, and possibly Toulouse and  Lyons, all ruled by Virgo. The agitation in Jerusalem will also increase through this year of Jupiter's passing through Virgo.
Jupiter was also sesquisquare Pluto in Capricorn, and sesquisquare Uranus in Aries. This aspect is sometimes called Thor's Hammer. In a nutshell it denotes violence. The forces in the world, having to do with corporate power, political power, extreme wealth, the poor, public services, food, medicine, geo engineering, and so on, are in great tension.

Raphael gives personal in-depth astrological and psychic readings. For information visit  www.raphaelsimons.com or call 1-212-502-0775 (NYC)

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Trump vs. Bush: a Chinese astrological view.

In current polls the leading Republican hopefuls are Trump and Bush. Trump is leading by a small margin. Here's what the Chinese charts have to say.

Trump was born 6/14/46 at 10:54 AM. Bush was born 2/11/53 at 8:50 PM
The year, month, day, and hour signs for Trump are Fire Dog, Wood Horse, Earth Sheep, and Earth Snake, respectively. Trump was born in Fire season.
The year, month, day, and hour signs for Bush are Water Dragon, Water Ox, Water Snake, and Water Dog, respectively. Bush was born in Water season.
The two are worlds apart.

Trump has 7 Fires, 7 Earths, 2 Metals, 0 Waters, and 2 Woods. So much Fire and Earth with no Water, makes him intuitive, unreflective, stubborn, and outspoken. His chart has a double knife blade. It gives him a sharp tongue, and warns him of a disaster in later years. It also makes him extremely restless in later years. No Water in the chart shows no reflection, little patience. Trump fairly much speaks and acts on the spur of the moment.
Trump's chart shows him to be strongly intuitive, psychic, and sharply insightful. This has, no doubt helped bring him to success in his career. He plays his hunches. He is outspoken and honest. His sharp tongue, however, can easily offend others. He is diligent, and knows the needs of others. He can care for others, and when he does he prospers. He is zealous and far seeing, and has the ability to be a leader. If he goes too far in his zeal and becomes intolerant of others, however, he causes them to rebel and turn against him. He is impulsive and proud.
Trump is in a 10 year cycle from his age 68 to 78. The cycle is Metal Ox. It is an empty cycle. He may be overestimating his friends. Metal Ox clashes with the signs of Trump's career, Wood Horse. He is being challenged.
This cycle is good for Trump to make gains. He is resourceful and creative.
2016 shows Trump having a lot of fun doing what he does; he is outgoing and really enjoys being in the public. Whether he wins the Republican nomination or not is a question. If he doesn't, and goes on speaking, running as an independent, he will devastate the Republican party, and may say some shocking things about them. His candid way of talking to and engaging his audience, notwithstanding, his worst danger lies in insulting the wrong people.

Bush has 7 Waters, 1 Wood, 1 Fire, 4 Earths, and 3 Metals. The predominance of Water and weakness of Fire shows him not to be intuitive, but to think a lot. He is calculating. Bush's chart shows something of a paradoxical character. He is independent on the one hand, but very set in tradition and close to his family on the other. Bush is mild mannered, but insensitive. No Yang Wood in his chart shows Bush to be indecisive. He will bend with the wind to fulfill what is expected of him.
Bush is in the 10 year cycle from his age 58 to 68. It is Earth Sheep. Sheep is empty for him. This, just like in Trump's chart shows Bush to be in a relatively weak position. And like Trump, these signs challenge Bush's career signs, Water Ox.
2015, the year of Wood Sheep works more or less favorably for Bush, but 2016, the year of Fire Monkey, doesn't. Monkey is his Death Star. If he is the Republican candidate he will probably lose.

It boils down to the suggestion that, although Trump and Bush are the front runners, it is questionable that either is a winner. Trump has the better chance. Whether someone else comes forward to take the lead or not has yet to be seen.

Raphael gives Chinese and western astrological readings and psychic readings. For information visit  www.raphaelsimons.com

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The USA at age 239: July 4, 2015

July 4, 2015 marks the 239th birthday of the USA. Astrological progressed and directed charts were drawn up to see what's in store.

At a glance, between all of these charts, Mars has most aspects.

1. The progressed chart has progressed Mercury trine natal Mars;
2. converse progressed chart has converse progressed Mars separating from opposition to natal Mars;
3. converse progressed Jupiter is conjunct natal Mars;
4. converse progressed Mars is opposite converse progressed Jupiter;
5. directed Mars is separating from square to natal Mercury;
6. directed Saturn is applying to trine natal Mars;
7. converse directed Mercury is square natal Mars.

Of these seven aspects, two are good (Mercury trine Mars and Saturn trine Mars), and the other five are essentially evil. Mars is violent. Mars in the natal chart is in Gemini, denoting arguing. Mercury trine Mars this year denotes plenty of that, and plenty of costly legal wrangling. It also denotes dangers of violence on the streets and in schools; this includes potential acts of terrorism.

This is a year of strife. The contentious spirit in America will continue through this year and into 2016, the election year.  Saturn's trine to Mars comes to perfection in 2016 at the time of the elections. A constructive movement is working its way up through all the fighting. Saturn represents the Democrats. They will win the presidency.

The planet of age 239 is Moon. The planet of age 240 is Saturn. This year, significant developments denoted by the Moon are to be noted. In the Gemini rising chart from 1776, the natal Moon is in the 10th house. It points to a woman or women in the highest circles of the Government. It also points to the people in general. The natal Moon is in Aquarius denoting a universal spirit that is developing in the country through this year with all its strife. The people are rising up and are making their voices heard. Next year, 2016, significant developments denoted by Saturn are to be noted. The Gemini rising chart has Saturn in the 4th house denoting the land itself. We have to consider what is happening to the land. Politically, Saturn is also the planet of the Democratic party. Jupiter is that of the Republicans. Since Saturn is in the 4th house of the natal chart, the 4th house being the opposition to the incumbency, we can expect there will be a very loud and strong stand taken by the opposition to the incumbent party in DC toward the elections. The lunation chart of 10/30/16, however, favors the Democrats. Compromises will be reached.

Other outstanding aspects of the charts show Uranus in tight conjunction with the Gemini rising Ascendant. This is a revolutionary time we are in, whether you like it or not. The way Uranus moves, it will transit Gemini in the later '20s when there will be tremendous changes in this country. The last times Uranus transited Gemini were WWII, the Civil War, and the American Revolution.

We also see converse progressed Neptune conjunct the converse progressed Ascendent. This happens in the natal 9th house. It denotes a blind spot and insane opinions this country has to deal with in regard to such things as religion, education, and foreign trade. Natal and converse progressed Neptune are in Virgo. Conjunct the converse progressed Ascendent it points to issues concerning dishonesty connected to foods, medicines, and chemicals. The country is being poisoned. The 9th house placement of this conjunction points to legalization of these crimes.

We also have the directed Sun applying to square natal Moon as read in the Gemini rising chart. This only confirms the currently developing strife.

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Summer Solstice in Astrology

Summer solstice, or the Cancer Ingress, happened on June 21 at 3:39 PM GMT, or 12:39 PM EST.

The Sun is separating from conjunction with Mars, Mars at 28 degrees Gemini. This has been a few very intense days leading up to the solstice, and we can expect the energy through the summer to be equally intense. Fortunately, Mars is not at 29 degrees which would have signaled danger of rash and violent actions.
We see, nonetheless, the Moon at 29 degrees Leo square Saturn at 29 degrees Scorpio retrograde. This is a hard aspect denoting stubbornness and, because the square is in Leo and Scorpio, hatred and cruelty in the world; 29 degrees, especially fixed signs (Leo and Saturn are fixed signs) points to a crying matter. The waves of terrorism and insanity are not about to stop.
Moon is just past square to Saturn, sextile to Mars, and is applying to sextile to the Sun, then opposition to Neptune, and square to Mercury. The Moon sextile Sun is productive of good. but the opposition Neptune and square Mercury will bring confusion and treachery - lots of misinformation, fear mongering, and political trickery is to be anticipated.
The Sun at 00 Cancer and the Moon at 29 Leo are in mutual reception helping to ease some of the more difficult conditions to a degree, and allowing people in key positions to skirt issues, avoid confrontations, and save face.
Venus is forming conjunction with Jupiter in Leo. This will bring a financially more buoyant time through the summer and all the way through October. Jupiter at 19 degrees Leo and Venus at 14 degrees Leo are both trine Uranus at 20 degrees Aries in the 10th house of the New York Stock Exchange chart. The market will move higher in the coming days.

The summer solstice chart for Washington DC has the Sun and Mars in the 10th house, at the zenith. For Mars this is an evil position, especially with Mars quincunx Saturn, semisquare Venus and Jupiter, and square the Ascendant, and Mars ruling the 8th house. This position of Mars points to military activity. It also points to illness and death of someone of considerable importance in the highest of circles, especially since Mars rules the 8th house, the 8th house denoting death. It also points to trouble in the Government. Mars conjunct the Sun and sextile the Moon shows military activity. Because Mars is in Gemini, and is 2 degrees away from the Sun it is afflicted and weak, and is not a good sign for military involvement. Probably it points to lost lives in mismanaged military actions abroad. There probably will be some military, probably police activity and street violence inside the country as well. Retrograde Saturn in the 3rd house quincunx Mars points to repetitions of street violence. More ugly events are probably coming.

The summer solstice chart for UK and the EU has the Sun and Mars in the 8th house quincunx Saturn in the 1st house. The people are suffering badly for lack of work, poverty and poor health. This is a very bad sign.
The Moon, Jupiter, and Venus are all intercepted in the 9th house trine Uranus in the 5th house. International diplomatic negotiations deals are happening behind closed doors. Moon square Saturn does not help the people. Sun and Mars in the 8th house quincunx Saturn in the 1st points to debt and poverty. Moon in the 9th house applying to opposition Neptune in the 4th house points to problems involving oil and gas. It also points to repeated incitements to violence, and protests involving treacherous, or terrorist activity. Neptune is square Mercury.
In the chart of Greece, we see Pluto moving back and forth over the cusp of the 7th house. Pluto is now 14 degrees retrograde in Capricorn. The 7th house of the Greece chart is 13 degrees Capricorn. Foreign countries, namely the EU, are imposing extremely destructive conditions on Greece. They could force Greece to withdraw from the EU, and could force drastic conditions. Greece is not happy with any of it. The health of the people suffers, and conditions are extremely complicated.

The summer solstice chart for China has Sun and Mars in the 3rd house with Moon in the 6th denoting much progress in rails and transportation systems, but it also warning of accidents in these areas. Uranus is in the 1st house denoting turbulence and arguing. This points to the situation in Hong Kong. It will continue. It also warns of renewed Islamist terrorist activity, possibly from Xinjian. Uranus trine Venus and Jupiter in the 5th house, however, may help ease or or turn the problems around. This Venus - Uranus aspect is also very good for innovative and speculative activity. There will be some surprising new developments in Chinese business. Venus rules the 2nd house and is in the 5th house. Some interesting upswings in the market can be anticipated. Mercury is in the 2nd house square Neptune in the 12th and square Moon in the 6th. This warns of gyrations in the market. There will also be losses, and they will be unexpected and confusing. Moon in the 6th house sextile Mars and Sun, but forming opposition Neptune and square Mercury points to problems involving the Navy, and not favoring the Navy.The situation over the islands in the South China Sea is coming to some confusion. Money involved in the project involving those islands will be wasted. There may be much coming and going to no purpose. Pluto in the 10th house, Pluto ruling the 8th house, with Saturn in the 8th point to the removal and/or death of a prominent figure, possibly someone involved in the Government.

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Bernie Sanders in Chinese astrology

Bernie Sanders was born September 8, 1941. The birth hour is not known, but the signs for the  year, month, and day, give us enough to get a good look at his chances to get the Democratic Party nomination.

Sanders was born in the year of Metal Snake, month of Fire Monkey, and Day of Earth Sheep. He is forward looking and has leadership skills. He is also unbending, independent, and is a risk taker. He is fortunate and has friends and allies.

His chart leans on the side of Yang, so he is proactive. The predominant element of the chart is Earth. This makes him practical, controlling, and responsible.

Sanders is in his 70 - 80 ten year cycle. It is Earth Ox. Ox is empty in his chart. Earth Ox clashes with his day of birth, Earth Sheep. Empty Ox spares him, but the cycle is turbulent, hence his political activism at this time.

Looking at him through an astrological system called Nayin, Sander's month of birth and day of birth are both Fire. His 70 - 80 ten year cycle is also Fire. This is good for him. It gathers people around him.

2016, the crucial year, is Fire Monkey year. Sanders was born in a month of Fire Monkey. The signs of 2016 match the signs of Sander's month of birth. This will make 2016 a most challenging year for his career, potentially good. The elements of the year bring him support and make him productive. The Fire of Fire Monkey year combines with the Metal of Sander's year of birth, Metal Snake, to produce Water. Water for Sanders represents the prize. He needs it. It is there. On the other hand, Monkey of 2016 combines with Sander's Snake to produce Water, but this is like poison; it is a clash. There could be treachery. He is up against powerful figures, possibly in the Democratic Party, who secretly work against him.

Looking at a King Wen I Ching reading, asking whether Sander's will win the nomination, it looks like he's in very complicated conditions. It looks like he's got a battle. In the King Wen chart, his significator is empty, meaning, too weak. There may be secret forces working against him.

It appears he has a fair chance, as he is strong, but I would not be surprised if the nomination is taken away from him.

Sanders was born under a Knife Blade. The Knife Blade for him is Snake. It makes him unbending, strong, and tough. In Sanders' chart the cycle of age 30 - 40 was a Snake cycle, in other words, his peak cycle. If this current cycle, 70 - 80 were his peak cycle there would be no doubt of his winning.

Sanders is going to become a very strong force in the Democratic Party between 2015 and 2016. His chance of winning the nomination, to be fair, is questionable.

Raphael gives in-depth personal Chinese and Western astrological readings, psychic readings, and fengshui consultations. For information visit  www.raphaelsimons.com

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A Chinese astrological portrait of the new royal baby princess

The royal princess was born May 2, 2015 at 8:34. The Chinese signs for the year, month, day, and hour of her birth are Wood Sheep, Metal Dragon, Earth Tiger, and Fire Dragon, respectively. She is a gentle, yet dynamic soul. She can be quite playful, romantic, and surprising. Her day of birth, Earth Tiger, is a Peach Blossom, showing her to enjoy good social status. She can be seductively attractive.
She also is gifted with a brilliant wit.

She has Proper Authority Deity. She will be graceful, trustworthy, upright, moral, rational, responsible, disciplined, and forthright. Nonetheless, she has her own mind, is a genius type, and can act eccentrically. There is something glamorous about her. Proper Authority Deity makes her skillful in areas of diplomacy, Government, and in legal and legislative fields. She is a great asset to the UK.

She will be quite a lady. She will be devoted to her family and country.

She is innately sincere, and positive, and when she makes a decision she will be extremely determined. She has strong intuition. She can be conceited and severe and stand offish, although she is also kind and will show love toward those she regards. She can make peculiar decisions. She can be jealous with strong capacity for love and hate. She does not forget injury, and is very conscientious. She has great good fortune and will have many powerful friends. 

The elements of her chart are 6 Wood, 3 Fire, 5 Earth, 1 Metal, and 2 Water.
Wood and Earth are the strongest elements. She is full of ideas, plans, and has a romantic mind. She also is very caring, and can be prone to worry.

The balance of yin and yang is perfect: 8 yin and 8 yang. This balance gives her good health. It is easy for her to keep good health.

Her vital element is Earth. Her person element is Earth (she is born on an Earth day), and her body element is Earth. She attracts many friends, and loves comfort. 

She has 1 Tien Yi Star. This is lucky. It resolves difficulties that may come up, and promises help and assistance wherever she goes.

The area of marriage and children is going to be a challenge. Not that it is written in stone, but the chart shows the danger of taking an unfortunate spouse, having difficulty having children, and potential misunderstandings with in-laws. This is an area of experience her soul attracts. We wish her all the happiness in the world. 

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What the Pisces solar eclipse and the vernal equinox have to say astrologically

The solar eclipse and vernal equinox happened on 3/20/15 at 10:18 AM GMT and 3/20/15 at 10:46 PM GMT, respectively. Approximately 12 hours apart, they work through polarities; the eclipse and equinox in the zenith and nadir of the UK and Europe, and in the eastern and western horizons, or Ascendant and Descendant, of the Americas.
The eclipse was visible all across the northern Atlantic, Europe, especially northern Europe, and into central Asia. It was not visible in North America. The effects of the eclipse will be felt most strongly in Europe and eastward periodically throughout the year, whereas in the US the effect is more like a strong new moon.
An eclipse in the zenith, and it is in the zenith of all the countries in Europe and east through central Asia, spells trouble to the Governments of the UK, the EU, Russia, and the middle east. An eclipse in the zenith also presages deaths to a major head, or heads of state. An eclipse in the zenith also spells potential disaster in political affairs as well as in nature. The effects are generally strongest in the 1st year, but can run on through 3 years.
An eclipse in the Ascendant, as shown in the chart of Washington DC, shows unrest and discontent, and poor health among the people.

The eclipse is at 29 Degrees Pisces. When such a strong event occurs at 29 degrees any sign it means a weeping matter soon to happen in the world. A solar eclipse at the end of Pisces shows sedition, cruelty, and inhumanity of soldiers. There will be a surge of crime and terrorist activity in Europe, the Middle East, and in Russia. Some horrible events will happen.

The eclipse being in Pisces affects countries, regions, institutions, and other areas of interest ruled by Pisces. These include North Africa; Egypt; Europe as a whole, especially western France, Portugal, and Scandinavia; the Mediterranean and its small islands, especially around Greece; and South Asia. It includes religion and religious fanaticism. It also includes chemicals in the air and water, And it includes all of sea life. Fish die offs are highly likely, all things considered.

Both the eclipse and vernal equinox happened when Uranus and Pluto are exactly square at 15 degrees Aries and Capricorn, respectively. This intensifies the troubles in the world. In the Europe charts, Uranus is in the 11th house, and Pluto is in the 7th. This affects international legislation. In the US Uranus is in the 1st house, and Pluto is in the 11th. This affects public opinion against activities in Government. The people are angry.

The eclipse chart in Europe has Neptune, Mercury, Sun, and Moon in the 10th house. The vernal equinox chart in Europe has Neptune, Mercury, Sun, and Moon in the 4th house. The Ascendant of the European chart is in Scorpio, a fixed sign. This means that the effects of the vernal equinox will last the entire year. The polarity of the 10th and 4th house is primarily political and territorial. Watch eastern Europe, and the tensions between NATO and Russia. The vernal equinox chart has Moon in Aries in grand trine with Saturn in Sagittarius and Jupiter in Leo, all fire signs. This is expansive, and positively affects international trade relations. Germany flirts with BRICS. Saturn retrograde in the 1st house square Neptune, however, shows serious poverty among the people. Those in power get richer. The people starve. Corruption is almost become a religion. Pluto is in the 2nd house square Uranus in the 5th. This shows potential losses in the markets. The markets can take unexpected turns. The markets are changing. The political and economic situation in the EU is mutating.

Both the eclipse and vernal equinox charts favorably aspect and support the natal chart of Israel. Saturn at 4 degrees Sagittarius is exactly trine to Israel's natal Moon at 4 degrees Leo. Netanyahu is popular and stands strong through the coming months. Uranus at 15 degrees Aries is trine to Israel's natal Saturn in the 10th house. The Government invests in innovative space age technology. Venus, Israel's ruling planet is at 4 degrees Taurus, exactly sextile Israel's natal Venus at 4 degrees Cancer, favoring international trade relations, especially with south and east Asia. There is nothing in these charts to indicate a major war coming to Israel in the coming months.

The solar eclipse chart in Washington DC has Neptune, Mercury, Sun, Moon, and Uranus in the 1st house. Mars and Venus are in the 2nd house. There is tremendous emphasis placed on public discontentment focusing on money.
The vernal equinox chart in Washington has Sun, Moon, and Uranus in the 7th house with Mars and Venus in the 8th. It emphasizes international relations and trade focusing on financial issues. Moon in the 7th house in Aries is in grand trine with Jupiter in Leo in the 11th house and Saturn in Sagittarius in the 3rd. Again, this is highly expansive. It may very well be pointing to the intention to establish the Trans-Pacific Partnership. But, Moon is applying to conjunction with Uranus in Aries in the 7th house square Pluto in Capricorn in the 4th. In addition to the expansive energy there is a brewing sharp conflict in international relations. The rulers of the 2nd and 8th houses of this chart, Venus and Mars, respectively, are in the 8th house showing dangers of financial losses, possibly involving debts. Mars in the 8th house does not bode well for international partnerships.

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Chinese new year predictions: Year of Wood Sheep 2015

The lunar year of Wood Sheep starts on February 19, 2015 at 7:48 in Beijing. This is the 31st year in the 60 year cycle. The signs of the year, month, day, and hour of the new year are Wood Sheep, Earth, Tiger, Fire Tiger, and Earth Dog, respectively.

General Predictions

The balance of elements are 5 Woods, 5 Fires, 6 Earths, 1 Metal, and 0 Waters. The elements are extremely unbalanced on the side of yang. There are 11 yangs, and 5 yins. This is going to be an extremely active year. The predominance of Wood and Fire makes it potentially violent. The extreme overbalance of Earth (5 yang Earths, 1 yin Earth) make it fretful and troubled. This is the general political atmosphere. The world is restless.
In terms of weather, there will be a trend of hot and dry with intense storms, fires, and droughts. There will also be a lot of seismic, volcanic activity. Because there is no Water in this chart, the winter of 2015 will probably be intensely cold. In other words, weather goes to extremes and produces some violent storms.

The chart brings out the Deity of Implicit Talent. This favors all creative, artistic activities and professions. This is a good year for the arts and for creative, inventive fields. This could be a tremendously creative year.
Wood Sheep encourages building up money, and with Fire Tiger day, the year allows for prosperity and good fortune.
Tiger day in the year of Sheep tells us that this is a good year for making plans, but bad for getting into fights. The danger of violence is high this year.
The chart, with 5 Woods and 1 Metal, favors the east over the west. The west is now in a weak position.
Fire Tiger day brings out Peach Blossom Star. It is a good sign for social relations and activities, and allows for love to develop. It also allows for scandals to flare up, considering the volatility shown by this chart.

In fengshui, in a year of Sheep, the directions of Monkey, Rooster, and Dog are unlucky. These are generally westerly. Sheep also makes the direction of Ox unlucky. Ox is north by northeast. If you have furniture oriented to these directions you would want to mitigate the shar (bad luck) that comes from these directions. Also, this being the year of 3 Wood, shar is also due east and west. There is no "one size fits all" solution for this. If you don't know the compass and astrological methods used in fengshui, you will benefit from having an expert analyze your place and make necessary recommendations for adjustments.

The year, month, day, and hour of the new year calculated to the I Ching gives us hexagram 25, line 2. Hexagram 25 is Wuwang, The Unexpected. It tells us that circumspection leads to success. It is good to persevere. If you are not as you should be, you will have bad luck. If you are as you should be, you will have good luck. Get right with yourself. This hexagram is fortunate in springtime. We are in Chinese spring season. Line 2 says not to expect long term results too quickly. In other words, don't count your chickens before they hatch. Take actions for their own sake.

Predictions for Each Sign

Sheep favors people born in years, months, days, or hours of Sheep, Pig, Rabbit, Horse, Snake, and sometimes Rat; is neutral with Monkey, Rooster, Tiger, and Dragon; and clashes with Ox, Dog, and sometimes Rat. These are just general ideas. A detailed examination of your Chinese astrological chart will show precisely what this year brings to you. 

Rat is the Flower of Romance for Sheep. Romantic affairs can develop, and be interesting. If you work hard this year you will profit. This is a good time to move forward in your career, possibly to change your job or move house too. Watch your health this year. If you are having trouble it should resolve favorably and good fortune will come of it. If you need help it will not be difficult to find. 

Ox is challenged by Sheep. The best attitude in face of this is to be friendly and independent. It will help increase your circle of friends. This is a good year to build up money. Take care of your health. If you are well you will flourish. If you are ill you need to pay attention. This is a good year for research. Look into the hidden meanings. With correct understanding you can change your situation for the better.

Tiger in the year of Wood Sheep is favored. This is a peak year, the downside, however, is that this is also a Knife Blade year. If you lose patience you can make unnecessary trouble for yourself. If you work hard you will accomplish what you want. The year presents opportunities for making money. 

Rabbit is in a strong position. If you are involved in a creative, or artistic field this is a good year for you. The year also favors making money. Face your challenges directly and take the lead. 

Dragon is in a good time for self-cultivation. If you are learning something new this is a good year for it. The year also favors moving forward in your career, also moving house, rearranging your home or workplace, or making career changes. It also favors being competitive. 

Snake is in a good year generally for romantic relations; the year favors pleasures. Take time to enjoy yourself. The year also favors financial growth. It is also a good year for research, metaphysical interests, and for caring for others. 

Horse is in a period that favors research and development of new ideas. Horse has a Knife Blade this year, meaning, you can become impatient and make trouble. But, having an Academic Nobleman Star you can get around trouble easily and turn misfortune to advantage. If your patience has completely run out, you could break ties if necessary. 

Sheep in Sheep year is in a relatively good place. It is best this year to be friendly with all, but act independently. Pay attention to your plans if you want them to develop. If you are involved in a creative, or artistic field this is an excellent year. Your money can also build up this year.

Monkey is in a position to make an entirely new start. Pay attention to what is about to bud. If you like it tend to it. If not, nip it. This is a good year to move forward in your career, move house, or change your home and/or work environment. If there are problems you can come up smelling of roses. You can turn adverse conditions to your favor. 

Rooster is at an end. This is a good time for endings / beginnings. Finish old projects to start new ones. This is a good year for creative activity. Whatever problems there are will resolve favorably. If you need help it is not difficult to find. 

Dog is in a favorable time for making investments. On the other hand, it is time to put the past in the past. Whatever you have learned will serve for future developments. Accept challenges this year. If you find yourself in competitive situations, accept the challenges and go for it. 

Pig is in a time when it is good to let go of whatever it was in the past that is over. Look for what is new. Opportunities for making money come up. If you experience difficulties they resolve favorably and good fortune comes. If you need help, friendly people appear. This is a good year for creative thinking and artistic work. 

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Raphael gives private in-depth Chinese astrological readings and fengshui consultations. For information visit www.trs-fengshui.com or www.raphaelsimons.com

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Raphael writes a daily Chinese astrological I Ching blog. To read it go to http://raphael-fengshui.blogspot.com

An overview of the world's tensions in 2015 as seen in astrology

In light of the unfolding situation the following nine charts were drawn up to get a general sense of how it moves in time. The charts are:

1. Winter solstice, 12/21/14
2. Solar eclipse, 3/20/15
3. Spring equinox, 3/20/15
4. Lunar eclipse, 4/4/15
5. Summer solstice, 6/21/15
6. Solar eclipse, 9/13/15
7. Fall equinox, 9/23/15
8. Lunar eclipse, 9/28/15
9. Winter solstice, 12/22/15

The solstices, equinoxes, solar eclipses, and lunar eclipses are traditional markers for predicting world events. Without going into great detail, the following is what they show.

At the winter solstice, 12/21/14, Uranus was in a tight square with Pluto (Uranus 12:34 Aries, Pluto 12:08 Capricorn). This is a violent aspect dealing with issues of control and defiance. Also Saturn was at 29 degrees Scorpio telling of a weeping matter to come during the winter quarter. We've already seen some, and will see more.

The solar eclipse of 3/20 is at 29 degrees Pisces. 29 degrees of any sign foretells a weeping matter. The effects of a solar eclipse generally last one year. In this eclipse chart Mars and Uranus are both square Pluto. Mars is in conjunction with Uranus. The square of Uranus and Pluto is exact, as in the winter solstice chart. We also have Saturn coming to square Neptune which will add to general unrest and suffering, especially among the poor and destitute. It will also intensify the religious mania we see nowadays. It is important to point out that the solar eclipse occurs at the zenith in Europe. The spring quarter, not to mention the rest of the year, will be troubled there. A traditional reading of a solar eclipse at the end of Pisces is cruelty and inhumanity of soldiers. We can be certain that terrorist activities will continue and increase in intensity into and through the spring, and then through this entire year into the next.

The spring equinox, 3/20/15 has the same aspects as the solar eclipse except the Sun has moved to 00 degrees Aries.

The lunar eclipse of 4/4/15 has a T-Square of the Moon in Libra opposing Sun conjunct Uranus in Aries, and these square Pluto in Capricorn. Saturn is now square Neptune. The effects of a lunar eclipse generally last three months. It is reasonable to say that up to and beyond the lunar eclipse of April 4, the world tension will intensify greatly. A traditional reading of a lunar eclipse in the middle of Libra is generally pernicious: evil for everyone.

It appears that the spring is the most violent. Beyond the spring the tensions should begin to ease somewhat.

By the summer solstice of 6/21/15 Uranus has moved far enough away from the square to Pluto to have eased its tension. But, we see the Moon at 29 Leo exactly square Saturn at 29 Scorpio. It is a depressive aspect, but it does not suggest an economic slump, because we find Jupiter at 19 degrees Leo tightly trine to Uranus at 20 degrees Aries, Aries being the mid-heaven of the NY Stock Exchange chart. The market will in general be going up in the summer. The Jupiter trine Mars will cause a surge in the market.

Saturn is again at 29 degrees Scorpio in the solar eclipse chart of 9/13/15 (Saturn is at 29 Scorpio in the winter solstice chart of 12 21/14, the summer solstice chart of 6/21/15, and in this solar eclipse chart of 9/13/15). Uranus and Pluto are still weakly square. The solar eclipse is at 20 degrees Virgo. A traditional reading for a solar eclipse in the 3rd decanate of Virgo leads us to believe that, depending on conditions, people will be punished for freedom of expression. By the time of the solar eclipse, Jupiter will have moved into Virgo, the sign of his detriment. We find Jupiter at the solar eclipse in tight opposition with Neptune generating no small degree of confusion. Considering the reading of the eclipse in the 3rd decanate of Virgo, insane things will be said, and there will be a lot of misunderstandings.

The fall equinox of 9/23/15 has Saturn in Sagittarius. Even though Saturn first entered Sagittarius on 12/24/14, he backs out and goes into Scorpio again. Fall equinox 2015 really marks the first major time in the Saturn transit that puts him firmly inside Sagittarius. Saturn in Sagittarius is applying to square Neptune. At the fall equinox the square is not strong enough, but it is pointing to an increase in unrest among the poor as well as of infectious diseases that may be spread through travel. Jupiter, at the fall equinox is opposite Neptune. This is not lucky for the stock market, as Neptune and Jupiter both rule the MC of the NYSE. The market will act erratically. Jupiter afflicted in Virgo is also a bad sign for food and medicine. Opposite Neptune it warns of contamination. Crops could be blighted, and there could be die offs in the ocean due to contamination.

The lunar eclipse of 9/28 is at 4 degrees Aries. The hard aspects of Uranus and Pluto, and of Saturn and Neptune are still fairly weak, so the tensions are not as pronounced as in the spring. A traditional reading of a lunar eclipse in the beginning of Aries is fires and fevers, however.

But the winter solstice of 12/22/15, Saturn has moved to exact square Neptune, and Uranus has come to a tight square with Pluto again. It is a troubled time. Nonetheless, the Uranus square to Pluto will not reach exact again, but will dissipate through 2016, a year in which we will see general tensions easing along with a gradual easing of general financial conditions.

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Raphael is available for private astrological and psychic readings. For information visit www.raphaelsimons.com