The solar eclipse of Sept. 1, 2016 in astrology

The solar eclipse of Sept. 1 comes at 10:19 AM GMD. It is at 9 degrees Virgo, forming a tight T-square with Saturn and Mars in Sagittarius, and Neptune in Pisces.

A solar eclipse in the first decanate of Virgo is read as causing great calamity, and death of some head of state, or king. Countries and regions of interest, ruled by Virgo, include Turkey, Syria, Iraq, Kurdestan; also Switzerland, the West Indies, Crete, Croatia, Greece, and Brazil. Cities under Virgo include Jerusalem, Paris, Lyons, Toulouse, Strasburg, Boston, and Los Angeles.
The eclipse is visible through central Africa. It spells calamitous conditions for that region.

The affects coming from the eclipse last at least one year. Transits to the eclipse degree will trigger repercussions. The eclipse is at 9 degrees Virgo. Neptune is at 10 degrees Pisces (opposite the eclipse). Neptune currently retrograde, arrives at 9 degrees Pisces exactly opposite the eclipse on September 27, turns direct at 9 degrees Pisces on November 20, and goes back to 10 degrees Pisces on January 11. This means that the general condition in the world between later September and mid-January is going to be more chaotic than it is now, and that we will see what is meant by calamity and death of heads of state. Other transits to the eclipse degree will happen. For instance, Mars will oppose the eclipse degree on December 31 and January 1, warning us of violence around New Years Eve. Mars also moves to square the eclipse on May 4 and 5. Also lunar transits to the eclipse degree will cause repercussions, the first coming on September 15 when the Moon is opposite the eclipse.

Current news about the difficulties that the Deutsche Bank is also shown in the eclipse. The original birth chart of Deutsch Bank, first founded as an international commerce bank on January 22, 1870 in Berlin, has Venus 10:27 in Pisces in the 1st house; Neptune 16:57 in the 1st house; Jupiter 11:29 Taurus in the 2nd house, and Pluto, ruler of the 9th house of internation trade in the 2nd house conjunct Jupiter. Deutche Bank is extremaly rich and powerful, but, at this point is in considerable hot water. The important planet to note here is Venus. The bank's natal Venus is at 10:27 Pisces. We see transiting Neptune now at 10:40 Pisces retrograde. Venus, in the original chart, rules the 8th house of debts, credit and derivatives. Neptune shows a bubble in credit and derivative, and fradulent manipulation. Neptune currently retrograde promisses more woes to come to Deutche Bank through this year and well into 2017. The eclipse is almost exactly opposite Neptune conjunct the bank's natal Venus, showing how much danger it is in. This is exacerbated by the square aspect to Saturn and Mars. In the eclipse chart for Berlin Mars and Saturn are in the 2nd house showing an extremely dangerous financial condition.  It threatens Germany. If this is not strictly controlled by the German government it will cause an economic crisis not only in Germany, but in all of Europe and so on. It is interesting to note: Deutsche Bank's natal Saturn is at 24:19 Sagittarius. Saturn will be at 24 degrees Sagittarius in early February, 2017. This means that the bank is coming to a Saturn return in early February, 2017, and will be involved in a process of reorganization with probable streamlining, meaning losses of jobs.
The eclipse happens at the zenith of Berlin. Neptune is in the 4th house, and Mars and Saturn are in the 2nd house. This shows growing chaos in Germany, not to mention Europe. There is increasing opposition to the current government that will ultimately fall from power.

The eclipse in Bruxelles is in the 11th house in a stellium. Sun, Moon, north node, Jupiter, and Mercury are in the 11th house in Virgo, and Venus is in the 11th house in Libra: there are 5 planets with the north node in the 11th house. The 11th house signifies the parliament. There is trouble in the entire parliamentary governance of the EU as shown by this eclipse. The eclipse is opposite Neptune in the 5th house and square Saturn and Mars in the 2nd house. A major issue lies diplomatic relations connected to economic woes. This has something to do with ties to the UK. The European stock markets are also in danger of falling.

The eclipse in Ankara, Turkey, Turkey being ruled by Virgo, is in the 10th house. Mars and Saturn are in the 1st house. This is very bad for the government except that Jupiter is also in the 10th house, and gives protection. It, nonetheless, spells war.

The eclipse in Moscow is in the 10th house along with north node, Jupiter, Mercury, and Venus. And Saturn and Mars are in the 1st house. There is a tremendous activity in the top levels of the government, and the outlook is warlike. Because the eclipse is at the zenith at these longitudes of the world, we can expect the violence there to intensify. Russia will be all the more directly involved in the conflict in Syria, as will Turkey. The situation for Assad is extremely dangerous. The war in Syria will get worse. Assad is in serious danger.

The eclipse in London is similar to Bruxelles. It shows danger for the banks and stock market, and difficulties in diplomatic relations connected to Parliament. The eclipse opposite Neptune spells a split with EU, but with lingering questions unresolved.

The eclipse in Washington DC is in the 1st house opposite Neptune in the 7th and square Saturn and Mars in the 4th, showing general unrest, ill health, and discontentment among the people. In the 2nd house, however, we find Jupiter conjunct Mercury in Virgo, and conjunct Venus in Libra. This shows good and improving economic conditions.

Raphael is available for personal astrological consultations. For information, visit  www.raphaelsimons.com

The outlook for the DNC as seen astrologically

A horary astrological chart was drawn up, July 24th at 11:47 in NYC, with the question what the future outlook is like, considering the turn of events. Here is what it says.
Moon is at 1:53 Aries in the 6th house, showing, right off that the matter will take time to sort out. It will not be easy.
The Moon is besieged between Neptune and Uranus. Directly behind the Moon is Neptune and in front of the Moon is Uranus. One bad turn leads to another. The entire thing is troubled.
Neptune behind the Moon shows what led up to the current state of affairs, and it is fraudulence and lying.

The Moon's aspects in order of transit are:
1. trine Sun in the 10th house,
2. trine Saturn retrograde in the 2nd house,
3. sextile Part of Fortune in the 9th house exactly square the lunar node in the 11th house.
4. square Pluto in the 4th house,
5. trine Venus in the 10th house.
6. parallel Jupiter in the 12th house,
7. trine Mercury in the 11th house,
8. conjunction Uranus in the 7th house.
These 8 aspects show some shilly shallying that will delay any real resolution. It confirms the Moon's 6th house placement, saying that the matter is not going to get resolved anytime soon.

The aspects viewed separately are as follows.
1. The trine Sun in Leo in the 10th house shows how powerful the DNC is. It also shows powerful people supporting them. These include the President, and the top executives of corporate and financial circles. Moon rules the 10th house. It involves the President and the people behind him. They will do everything to save face.
2. The Moon trine Saturn retrograde in the 2nd house, no matter how you slice it, shows serious trouble coming up, and it will cost the party heavily. Saturn rules the 4th house, undermining the power of the DNC. The Wikileaks dealt a severe blow to them. Moon trine Saturn also shows a long time holding on. But, Saturn in the 2nd house, and ruling the 4th house, shows the end of the matter with the party seriously damaged.
3. The Moon sextile the Part of Fortune in the 9th house shows favors from judges. However, the Part of Fortune applying by minutes in the same degree to exact square the lunar node in the 11th house shows serious trouble nonetheless. The node in the 11th house signifies the Congress. Fortuna or any planet in the same exact degree as the lunar node, and applying by minutes to exactitude, warns of disruption about to come. The convention will be disruptive.
4. Moon square Pluto retrograde in the 4th house is another disruptive sign. The 4th house is the end of the matter. The DNC is damaged. Pluto rules the 2nd house, and is in mutual reception with Saturn by house rulership, Saturn ruling the 4th house. This means that however they may try to get out of the problem they get in deeper. The mutual reception puts retrograde Pluto in the 2nd house showing that it will cost them heavily willy nilly. The Mutual reception also puts Saturn in the 3rd house showing that they will try to suppress news, as usual. Their media will not report everything in an attempt to protect them, but will try to hide their dirty laundry by misdirecting the public attention, casting blame and aspersion at their rivals, the GOP, and, as it turns out, Russia !
5. Moon trine Venus in the 10th house shows the support of powerful women in top circles as well as from the general populace, as Venus rules the 1st house.
6. Moon parallel Jupiter in the 12th house is protective and softens the blow.
7. Moon trine Mercury in the 11th house shows support from sharp, clever people in the Congress, giving it all legal spin and brilliant trickery. Mercury rules the 9th house of law.
8. Moon conjunct Uranus in the 7th house. The matter does not end well. Moon conjunct Uranus in Aries is afflicted.

The chart seen from the 2nd house. The 2nd house is the house of what's coming up, or the future. In this chart we have Mars and Saturn retrograde in the 2nd house. This simply means trouble coming up. The 2nd house also shows the cost. Mars and Saturn show it will cost severely. Saturn retrograde says extremely heavily. This is extremely unfortunate.

The chart seen from the 4th house. The 4th house is the end of the matter. Pluto retrograde there is destructive. Its mutual reception with Saturn shows that attempts to get around the matter only get them more deeply entrenched.

From this point until the Democratic party is radically reformed, as shown by the Moon's conjunction with Uranus, they are seriously damaged. And that reform will not be more democratic.

The Greek philosopher, Heraclitus, wrote, "Justice will catch up with those who invent lies and those who swear to them."

Raphael Simons. www.raphaelsimons.com 

Astrological prediction on the Hague ruling on the South China Sea

A horary chart was cast on July 12 at 10:08 PM in NYC on the question what the Hague ruling would come to. The South China Sea arbitral tribunal in The Hague delivered a one-sided ruling in the case initiated by the Philippines. It is my opinion that there are a few reasons for attempting to do away with China's legitimate territorial claims. First and most obvious is the oil in the South China Sea. If the area is claimed by the Philippines, a willing puppet of the western powers behind this developing conflict, the multi-national oil companies located in the west will get to take the oil. Secondly, China is not included in the TPP negotiations. This has far reaching implications, especially if the TPP goes through. You can connect the dots.

The horary chart shows the following. The ASC signifies China and the DSC signifies the west. The ASC is ruled by Uranus, and the DSC is ruled by the Sun. The question came up if the situation would lead to a war. For that to happen the rulers of the ASC and DSC would have to be in afflictive aspect, either by opposition or square, and in the angles (the 1st, 10th, 7th, and 4th houses). Here we see the Sun coming to square Uranus confirming that conflict is developing, but the square is happening between the 2nd and 5th houses. It means economic conflict is coming.
The 2nd house is also the house of what's coming up. We see Uranus in the 2nd house. China is concerned about her territories, holdings, and wealth. The Sun coming to Square Uranus shows the west moving to challenge it. The ruler of the 2nd house is Mars. Mars is in the 9th house, in Scorpio. The 9th house has to do with foreign trade. We also see the Moon in Scorpio, the sign of her fall, applying to conjunction with Mars. The Moon's final aspect in this chart is that conjunction. It is a bad sign. It says there may very well be conflict, and, if so, it will affect trade relations and financial agreements. There is a way out. The Moon is in mutual reception with Venus by house placement. It shows diplomacy.

Raphael Simons  www.raphaelsimons.com 

Theresa May: Chinese astrological portrait

Theresa May was born on October 1, 1956 at 10:55 AM. (The astrological time of her birth was rectified by Theodore White).
The Chinese signs of the year, month, day, and hour of Teresa May's birth are  Fire Monkey, Fire Rooster, Metal Ox, and Water Snake, respectively.
She was born in the 8th lunar month on a day designated as fair and stable. This characterizes what she wants: to be fair, just, and to keep things stable. This is her essential motivation.
The chart has 7 Metal, 3 Water, 0 Wood, 3 Fire, and 3 Earth. There is an extreme imbalance in the chart between Metal and Wood. She can have quite a delemma taking sides. When Wood comes up in progressions she has difficult challenges. This imbalance of Metal and Wood can cause her to change sides expediently to adjust to, or take advantage of wherever it is she feels power, or to get around difficult conditions. The chart shows that she can be unstable, taking one side or another. She's a good negotiator. But this quality can also bring her career into turmoil.
Predominant Metal makes her shrewd, cutting edge, sharp, and skillful. No Wood brings up big challenges for her in years and cycles that bring up Wood. Such cycles show up for her between her ages 18 to 38, and then between 58 to 78. As you can see, she, at age 60, is currently in a Wood cycle. She needs to exert command, and she will get stiff opposition from several sides.
Theresa May's ruling element is Metal. She was born on a day of Metal in Metal Season, and Metal overwhelms her entire chart. Her vital element is Water. Water would have signified children if she were able to have them, but, because, as her chart shows, she wasn't able, it signifies her career. Her career is of vital importance to her life.
May's chart deity is called Amiable. This defines her career. While she is generally friendly, she is very independent. She will shift alliances according to what is expedient. She acts independently, and her moves can surprise others.  Her birth Star is 7 Metal. This makes her a shrewd judge of character. She is a subtle, sociable, and cool character. She is able to weigh the different sides with equanimity. She is highly sensitive, questioning, and resourceful. It takes her a long time to make up her mind, and she does not trust easily. Her decisions and insights can take others by surprise. She is very happy in her work, and thrives among those who work enthusiastically along with her. Where others are unsupportive, she will tend to lose interest. She succeeds by shrewd planning and perserverance. She has excellent social skills and is appreciated especially in her professional circle.
She has strong self-discipline, is clever, and is an able leader. She shines in Government. She has good foresight. Her chart, nonetheless shows that her career may tend to be unstable and tumultuous.
There is a Knife Blade in her chart. It shows that she can be unbending, obstinate, and resentful of others' opinions, and that she can be a risk taker.
May's progressed chart shows her from her age 58 to 68 to be in a Metal Rabbit cycle, and from 68 to 78 in a Metal Tiger cycle. Both of these show her forced to stand up and assume the position of power. Metal Rabbit (58 - 68) completely revolutionizes her career. This year, 2016, the year of Fire Monkey, is a pinnacle year for her. Metal Rabbit, the sign for her cycle, 58 - 68, galvanizes her personally. Metal is her birth element. She is very strong. Rabbit, however, a Wood sign, promises to make this a challenging period. It will test her mettle. She's got opposition to contend with. Her Administration will not be uneventful. She, however, is tough, commanding, and shrewd. She can even be cold and ruthless.
2016 is a pinnacle year for May. She is strong. Her vital element is abundant this year. It is very fortunate for her career.
2017 looks like a dramatic year for her career. It is the year of Fire Rooster. May was born in the month of Fire Rooster. Rooster fights with Rooster. She will have much to contend with. Her vitality is strong in 2017; she will take a dominant position and will shine out; she will show strong discipline and cleverness; and will be able to get a good following, which is needed. She has a huge job in reforming and unifying the diverging trends in the Government. 2017 looks like a make or break year. The 10 year cycle she is in, from 58 - 68, Metal Rabbit, being opposite the sign of her career at birth, Fire Rooster, is transformative for her career, and could possibly break it. The sign of 2017, Fire Rooster, is the same as the sign of her career at birth chart: Fire Rooster. 2017 appears to be critical. It brings her career into a crisis make or break point. She has a lot going for her, however, therefore a good chance of succeeding. Her birth star, 7 Metal, is also in the house of 2 Earth, showing every step she takes making it better and better, while every step could be hard. 7 Metal in a year of Rooster is in a good place and has protection.
Looking beyond 2017, 2020 is a pivotal year in May's life.

Raphael Simons.  www.raphaelsimons.com

The New Moon in Cancer: an astrological report

The New Moon came on July 4th at 12:02 PM GMD. The Moon formed a stellium in Cancer with Mercury, the Sun, and Venus, straddling all three decanates of that sign. The new Moon was in the 2nd decanate, resonating with Scorpio. Mars was in Scorpio trine Venus, and sesquisquare Mercury, showing hopes of some understanding amid conflict.
The New Moon forms a trine aspect with Neptune in Pisces, suggesting that this may become a good period for the arts in general.
That Mercury, the Moon, the Sun, Venus, Mars, and Neptune are all in Water signs, our attention is drawn to water, the ocean tides, rain, and floods. The New Moon in the UK and in the EU is at the zenith, suggesting wet, stormy weather.
While the New Moon forms a trine with Neptune, and a sextile with Jupiter, both bringing more expansive and placid conditions into the world for the time being, it was in opposition with Pluto, and there was a T Square between Saturn in Sagittarius, Neptune in Pisces, and Jupiter in Virgo, showing a continuing pattern of disagreement and arguing. The Mercury sesquisquare Mars aspect intensifies that condition. We also have Mars Quincunx Uranus, encouraging underground, secret activity of a potentially dangerous sort. A lot is going on that escapes notice.

The New Moon in the UK occured in the 10th house. It, along with Mercury and Venus, was intercepted, showing new developments in the Government hehind closed doors. The opposition to Pluto in the 4th house shows the breakings up of the Government status quo. The trine to Neptune in the 6th house, activating the T Square with Saturn in the 3rd, and Jupiter in the 12th, point to the problems in the Labor Party. It is unlikely that they will be resolved too readily, as Neptune is tightly square Saturn through the summer and into the fall. At any rate, the New Moon in the 10th house in Britain shows change in the Government.

The New Moon opposite Pluto in Bruxelles also shows changes in the Government. But, whereas Mars, in the UK chart is in the 3rd house, showing discontentment and arguments (protests), Mars, in the EU chart is in the 2nd house showing financial losses. A proposed EU army would seriously affect the economic condition of the member states if it came about. The New Moon chart for Bruxelles also has Uranus in the 7th house, showing the break with the UK, and producing other awkward and unanticipated complications in foreign relations, as well as internal agitation and hints of more breakups to come.

The New Moon in the US was in the 12th house along with Mercury and Venus, and was opposite Pluto in the 6th house. This shows underground criminal activity about to increase. The New Moon casts rays to the 6th, 5th, 3rd, and 9th houses. If there is danger, places to watch include military installations; the streets; places of transportation like train stations, trains, airports, airplanes, and boats; and places of amusement such as theaters and sports arenas.
The New Moon in the 12th house points to a rise in secret intelligence activity involving spies and secret enemy agents.

Raphael Simons is available for private, personal astrological consultations. For information about Raphael's work, visit  www.raphaelsimons.com or simons.traphael@gmail.com

The New Moon in Cancer: an astrological report

The New Moon came on July 4th at 12:02 PM GMD. The Moon formed a stellium in Cancer with Mercury, the Sun, and Venus, straddling all three decanates of that sign. The new Moon was in the 2nd decanate, resonating with Scorpio. Mars was in Scorpio trine Venus, and sesquisquare Mercury, showing hopes of some understanding amid conflict.
The New Moon forms a trine aspect with Neptune in Pisces, suggesting that this may become a good period for the arts in general.
That Mercury, the Moon, the Sun, Venus, Mars, and Neptune are all in Water signs, our attention is drawn to the ocean tides, and rain. The New Moon in the UK and in the EU is at the zenith, suggesting wet, stormy weather.
While the New Moon forms a trine with Neptune, and a sextile with Jupiter, both bringing more expansive and placid conditions into the world for the time being, it was in opposition with Pluto, and there was a T Square between Saturn in Sagittarius, Neptune in Pisces, and Jupiter in Virgo, showing a general pattern of conflict and arguing. The Mercury sesquisquare Mars aspect intensifies that condition. We also have Mars Quincunx Uranus, encouraging underground, secret activity of a dangerous sort.

The New Moon in the UK occured in the 10th house. It, along with Mercury and Venus, was intercepted, showing new developments in the Government hehind closed doors. The opposition to Pluto in the 4th house shows the breakings up of the Government status quo. The trine to Neptune in the 6th house, activating the T Square with Saturn in the 3rd, and Jupiter in the 12th, point to the problems in the Labor Party. It is unlikely that they will be resolved too readily, as Neptune is tightly square Saturn through the summer and into the fall. At any rate, the New Moon in the 10th house in Britain shows change in the Government.

The New Moon opposite Pluto in Bruxelles also shows changes in the Government. But, whereas Mars, in the UK chart is in the 3rd house, showing discontentment and arguments (protests), Mars, in the EU chart is in the 2nd house showing financial losses. A proposed EU army would seriously affect the economic condition of the member states if it came about. The New Moon chart for Bruxelles also has Uranus in the 7th house, showing the break with the UK, and producing other awkward and unanticipated complications in foreign relations, as well as internal agitation and hints of more breakups to come.

The New Moon in the US was in the 12th house along with Mercury and Venus, and was opposite Pluto in the 6th house. This shows underground criminal activity on the rise. The New Moon casts rays to the 6th, 5th, 3rd, and 9th houses. If there is danger, places to watch include military installations; the streets; places of transportation like train stations, trains, airports, airplanes, and boats; and places of amusement such as theaters and sports arenas.
The New Moon in the 12th house points to a rise in secret intelligence activity involving spies and secret enemy agents.

Raphael Simons is available for private, personal astrological consultations. For information about Raphael's work, visit

Summer solstice, 2016, in astrology

Summer solstice came at 11:35 PM GMD on June 20, following the full moon at 12:03 PM GMD. It is a full moon solstice, meaning a general turning point for the world. The full moon was at 29:33 Sagittarius, showing us all at the end of our tether in one way or another at this point. The solstice, at 00:00 Cancer, is opposite the solstice point of the full moon, so the full moon registers very strongly in this solstice, marking a turning point in world events.

The full moon followed the new moon in Gemini of June 5. That new moon was in a grand cross in mutable signs, showing a complicated picture with a lot of conflict, arguing and fighting. Those conditions carry over to the full moon and the solstice.

The solstice has a grand cross in mutable signs also. This one involves Saturn, Neptune, Mercury, and Jupiter.

In the chart made for the UK, we find Saturn retrograde in the 10th house conjunct the Midheaven. This is evil. It denotes disgrace, misfortune, and many troubles for prominent figures in the current Government. It bodes ill for the Prime Minister. He's finished.
Saturn is in Sagittarius. His dispositer, Jupiter is in Virgo in the 7th house and square Saturn. This brings Saturn, and who he represents in the Government, to probable defeat. Jupiter afflicted in the 7th house also causes disputes with other powers over financial and trade issues.
Jupiter's dispositor, Mercury is opposite Saturn. Mercury is in Gemini, a strong position. Mercury is in the 4th house, opposing the current Government, and exacerbating disputes with other powers, as Mercury is square Jupiter. Mercury in the 4th house opposite Saturn in the 10th and square Jupiter in the 7th shows discontentment of the people. It is also showing storms adversely affecting agriculture.
Neptune is in Pisces the 1st house, retrograde, square Saturn, opposite Jupiter, and square Mercury. In the 1st house, Neptune shows discontentment among the people, and occasions agitation, and treacherous behavior. It brings fraud. Neptune is intercepted in the 1st house. The ruler of the 1st house is Uranus. Uranus is in the 2nd house, showing where this treachery focuses. It is in finances, banks, and the stock market. There is financial trickery registering in this whole matter of Brexit.

Because Bruxelles is so close to London, all these indications for UK are being reflected in the EU. There is trickery in the entire banking system between Britain and the EU, and the leadership in Britain as well as in the EU is threatened at this point.

The Solstice Sun is in the 5th house, opposite the Moon and conjuct Venus. Venus is opposite the Moon. This focuses in the area of diplomatic relations. Venus, combust and opposite Moon is extremely weak and afflicted. Venus rules the 8th house. There are financial losses, and big debts, and, let's say, diplomatic relations at this point in the EU are a mess. If Britain remains in the EU, it won't solve it. The Cameron Administration is weak, and in seriuos danger of defeat. The current situation in the EU is also weak and in serious danger of coming undone with or without the UK.

The matter of Brexit looks a fairly close vote, with Leave more likely to win over Remain.

In the chart made for the US, Saturn is in the 1st house opposite Mercury in the 7th, square Neptune in the 3rd and Jupiter in the 9th. The solstice Sun is in the 7th with Venus opposite Moon in the 1st.
Saturn afflicted in the 1st house is evil. People are out of work, ill, distressed, and angry. We see Mars in the 12th house quincunx Uranus in the 5th. Danger from criminal fanatics found in places of entertainment and sports events continues.
The opposition of Jupiter and Neptune is between the 9th and 3rd houses. A lot of misinformation and lies are deliberately being circulated to generate confusion in politics and news.
The solstice Sun in the 7th house speaks of international affairs. They are not going smoothly. The ruler of the 7th house, Mercury is opposite Saturn, and square Jupiter and Neptune. A lot of trickery and lying is going on. The ruler of the 2nd house shows what is coming up. Saturn rules the 2nd house. Saturn is afflicted in the 1st house. The people are seriously troubled about the future. The 10th house, hinting of what's coming in the elections, is ruled by Mercury. Mercury is in a grand cross, opposite Saturn and square Jupiter and Neptune. We can expect a tremendous lot of treachery and deception corrupting the political picture and confusing the process. The people are angry and worried. The ruler of the Government, Mercury is square to the Ruler of the People, Jupiter. They are at odds, and the people are being lied to, tricked, and manipulated.

Raphael Simons  www.raphaelsimons.com

The new moon of 6/5/16 in astrology

The new moon came on 6/5 at 4:01 AM GMD. 

This is a very interesting new moon in that it forms a very tight grand cross in mutable signs, the Sun, Moon, and Venus in Gemini; Saturn in Sagittarius; Jupiter in Virgo; and Neptune in Pisces. (Sun and Moon at 14:53 Gemini, Venus at 14:24 Gemini; Saturn retrograde at 12:59 Sagittarius; Jupiter at 14: 18 Virgo; and Neptune at 12:01 Pisces). The Sun, Moon, and Venus are opposite Saturn, and square to Jupiter, and then Square to Neptune. The energy is completely discordant, and, being in mutable signs, extremely complicated. This means that during the coming days we will see a massive proliferation of arguments, with a lot of confusion and seriously misleading information circulating in the world. Effects of this grand mess will also include lots of swindling, a good chance of increasing illness, violence, and a general rise in collective insanity.

The new moon is rising in the chart for the UK. Saturn is in the 7th house, Jupiter is in the 5th, and Neptune is in the 11th. This new moon in the 1st house of the UK adversely affects the general outlook of the people. The new moon with Venus combust and opposite Saturn in the 7th house shows a great deal of unhappiness over differences of opinion. Venus opposite Saturn is not at all happy; social relations are being tried, not only with respect to the question of the EU, but in very personal ways. The squares to the new moon: Jupiter in the 5th house and Neptune in the 11th house, show disagreements reaching into diplomatic circles and Parliament. Mars is retrograde in the 6th house at 27 degrees Scorpio, conjunct the 7th house cusp. This means, Mars casts a shadow over international relations. It concerns not only the matter of the EU, but the matter of the rising migrant population. The ASC, at 28 degrees Taurus, is conjunct the Pleaides and opposite Mars, showing quarrels and violence. The people are angry. The Part of Assassination is conjunct the ASC opposite Mars. Possibilities of violence over the coming couple of weeks leading up to the referendum are to be taken very seriously.

The new moon in the chart for the USA is in the 5th house, opposite Saturn in the 11th, square Neptune in the 2nd, and square Jupiter in the 8th, the 2nd, 5th, 8th, and 11th houses all having to do with finances. The financial and business picture at this new moon looks shaky. The stock market will be shaky. Mars retrograde in the US chart is in the 10th house, pointing to deep, possibly hidden and/or long festering trouble in the highest circles of the Government. Neptune afflicted in the 2nd house points to financial losses due to fraud, theft, swindling, and everything underhanded and secret. This does not only affect individuals, but is happening on a large scale, as in banking and the stock market, if not in government agencies.

Raphael gives in-depth personal astrological readings. For information, visit  www.raphaelsimons.com or simons.traphael@gmail.com

The death of Prince seen in Chinese astrology

Prince was born on June 7, 1958 at 6:17 PM. The Chinese signs for his birth year, month, day, and hour are Earth Dog, Fire Snake, Wood Rabbit, and Wood Rooster, respectively. He was born in Chinese summer season; its element is Fire.

The element count in Prince's chart is 4 Fire, 3 Earth, 3 Metal, 3 Wood, and 0 Water. 00 Water is most interesting, as it points to danger in years and cycles of Water. Prince's chart shows two cycles: his age 50 - 60, and 60 - 70 ruled by Water (Water Dog, and Water Pig, respectively).
Water rules over cold, wet climate. Living in the north, such as in Minneapolis, was a challenge to his vitality, especially in these Water cycles.
Prince's vital element was Metal. The best fengshui advice for him would have been to move to a dry, cool climate by age 50. It would have prolonged his life, although his vitality would have weakened nontheless. He could possibly have lived another 10 years. Metal climate is clear mountain air.

Prince's chart shows a generally favorable run of luck from his late teens to early 50s, His strongest vitality was in the period of his mid-30s to early 50s, a period that also favored romantic relationships.

The zodiac sign of his cycle from age 50 to 60 is Water Dog. Combined with the signs of his birth chart, this generates Wood and Fire. Prince's vital element is Metal. Wood and Fire destroy Metal. This means that Prince's vital element was destroyed in this cycle. His resistance to disease became poor. Had he come for a Chinese astrological reading, the advice would have been, since age 50, to look after his health seriously.
Breaking down the signs Water and Dog, Dog came up in Prince's age 55 to 60. Dog combines with the sign of Prince's day of birth, Rabbit, to generate Fire. Fire killed his vital element, Metal. This, happening in a cycle ruled by Water, should have been a warning to him. What's more, the life cycle he was in from age 50 to 60 is called 'Burial.' It all means he was weak and unable to withstand illness. Had he managed to fight his way out of this, he would probably have died sometime in his life cycle of age 60 to 70; it is called Death.

The year 2016, Fire Monkey, especially the 1st half of the year, from February to August, is a Fire year. He died in the spring, whose element is Wood. Wood and Fire came together and killed his vital element, Metal. Monkey, the zodiac sign of 2016, combines with the signs of Prince's birth chart to bring out two stars: Traveling Star, and Robbing Star. These obviously acted as malefics. He was robbed of his vitality and is now moving on.  4/20/16 was the day of Water Monkey, and 4/21/16 is the day of Water Rooster. The Water of both of these days confirms the matter. We wish him well.

In his relatively short life, he accomplished much. His life was rich.

Raphael offers personal in-depth Chinese astrological readings and psychic readings. For information visit  www.raphaelsimons.com

The outlook according to the spring equinox and lunar eclipse

The spring equinox came on March 20 at 4:31 GMT. Because it came so close to the lunar eclipse on March 23, they can be viewed together.

The spring equinox chart has only one lunar aspect: Moon quincunx Mercury. This means that in the atmosphere of all the other planetary aspects, there is only one thing to anticipate, as far as this chart is concerned. Moon and Mercury rule the mental state of the world. The quincunx says it is unstable. The world is everywhere ill at ease, and in need of adjustments everywhere.

Mercury is in Pisces, his weakest sign. A wave of fear, distrust, disbelief, and confusion sweeps over the world. Changes and political decisions made this quarter, whatever they are, will tend to be unfortunate. There is coming and going to no purpose. Contracts and agreements bring misunderstanding. Promises and appointments are not kept. There will be plenty of false news to distract attention involving bad publicity, scandals, petty quarrels, gossip, tale-bearing, and there will be legal disputes.

The context of all the above is shown by the following planetary aspects.

On the hard side,
Mars is square Venus and Neptune,
Jupiter is square Saturn and opposite Neptune,
Saturn is square Neptune,
Uranus is square Pluto.

On the easy side,
Mars is trine the Sun,
Saturn is trine Uranus.

Mars is in a critical degree: 4 degrees Pisces. This means a crisis in which underground aggression comes out.

Short of going into details, the general atmosphere shows six hard aspects against two easy. The Moon quincunx Mercury favors the hard aspects. The general tone of the time is distressed. The quincunx aspect is, by definition, an aspect of distress requiring adjustment and probable separation.

The spring equinox chart, made at Greenwich, UK has its Ascendant in Aquarius. This means that the reading holds water for an entire year.

Briefly, the chart at Greenwich has Venus, Neptune, Mercury, and the Sun in the 1st house opposite the Moon and Jupiter in the 7th house. There is a strong pulling apart of Britain from the EU in evidence. Mars is in the 9th house, conjunct the Mid-Heaven exacerbating the tension and involving heated quarreling in the respective Governments. Saturn is in the 10th house. Square Neptune in the 1st, opposite Jupiter in the 7th, and trine Uranus in the 2nd. The hated bond between Britain and the EU is most likely to break, and a new, more enterprising direction taken. If they manage to stay together, a new direction will be the only course open.
In the charts both of the UK and EU, the Moon in the 7th house is quincunx Mercury in the 1st. An adjustment must happen. Separation is highly likely. Saturn in the 10th house trine Uranus in the 2nd house in both charts says that if the two sides split up it will open new avenues for economic development. It is the most optimistic outlook, especially for Britain.
The EU is apt to begin fragmenting.

The chart at Washington DC has Mars and Saturn in the 1st house. This shows the angry and extremely discontented feeling of the people. Mars in a critical degree square Venus and Neptune in the 3rd house points to possible rioting on the streets, possible terrorist activity in addition to staged political riots. Stay out of harm's way.

The lunar eclipse comes on March 23 at 12:02 PM GMT. It is at 3 degrees Libra. The eclipse Moon is opposite Mercury. So, we see the equinox Moon quincunx Mercury answered in the eclipse chart by the Moon opposition Mercury. Nature is eloquent. The eclipse is driving home the meanings of the equinox chart Moon/Mercury aspect. Where it is most likely to affect is where the eclipse is visible. That is across North America, most of South America, and all the way across the Pacific to Asia as far west as Pakistan.
The traditional reading for a lunar eclipse in the 1st decanate of Libra is violent weather. If we add to this the Sun's position at 3 degrees Aries, it tells of violence and sedition in the human realm.
The eclipse charts for the UK and EU show the Moon at the nadir opposite Sun and Mercury in the zenith. This brings extreme tension between the ruling parties and their opposition. Europe is in serious political turmoil.
The eclipse chart for Washington DC has Neptune, Venus, Mercury, the Sun, and Uranus all in the 12th house opposite Moon and Jupiter in the 6th. This brings up a wave of criminal activity, and points to scandals in connection to the Administration, and probable rioting during the period of the coming three months in which this eclipse is in effect. The eclipsed Moon in the 6th house sextile Mars shows a spike in police and/or military activity. Pluto in the 10th house square Uranus in the 12th shows a delinquent President.

Raphael gives in-depth personal astrological and psychic readings. For information visit  www.raphaelsimons.com

An astrological view of the solar eclipse of March 9

The solar eclipse came on March 9 at 2:07 AM GMT. It was at 18:56 Pisces.

A solar eclipse in the middle section of Pisces, according to tradition, presages tidal waves. This eclipse was fully visible over Indonesia. There is a strong probability of seismic and tsunami activity coming to Indonesia and that region as an effect of this eclipse. It could also cause a volcanic explosion. When this happens could be this month, or any time within a year at most, as repercussions of solar eclipses tend to spin out over time.

And eclipse in Pisces unleashes chaos.

The effects of this eclipse for the world in general, looking at the planetary aspects are as follows.

The eclipse in Pisces is exactly opposite Jupiter in Virgo. The polarity of Pisces and Virgo has generally to do with labor and services, public health, food, and military services.
Pisces has generally to do with issues of asylum, hospitals, prisons, charitable institutions, crime, secret military, and terrorism.
Virgo has to do with health, food, military services.
The eclipse opposite Jupiter points to serious upsets in the migrant situation, probable terrorist activities tied to transportation, streets, roads, bridges, ships. The situation is a big mess.
The eclipse is exactly conjunct Germany's Moon (of the chart of German political unification of 10/3/1990). So, this eclipse brings trouble to Germany's legal system, law courts; shipping and trade relations; and foreign relations, overshadowing and potentially upsetting affairs of the federal government. The Moon is also the people in general. The people, as shown by this eclipse, are very deeply distressed. The eclipse may divide the people.Germany is in for a year of trouble. Merkel will probably be voted out in the upcoming elections.
The eclipse also points to epidemics, possibly affected by migrant populations, or by deliberate criminal activity.
There will be food shortages, possibly tied to failed crops, problems with food processing, and/or problems with international food transport.
There will be large losses of money spent on migrants. This will increase the general poverty.
Crime will rise.
Secret military activity will increase.

Jupiter is involved in several aspects that are triggered by the eclipse. These are as follows.
Jupiter is closing a tight square with Saturn.
Juipiter is quincunx Uranus, and Saturn is trine with Uranus.
Jupiter is trine Pluto, and Pluto is square Uranus.
In a nutshell, these aspects point to a spike in underground criminal activity, especially theft, involving people in high places. It also suggests huge sums of money being used for secret criminal activities possibly linked to terrorist activities.

At the eclipse, Mercury was also applying to conjunction with Neptune in Pisces. Pisces is Mercury's weakest sign. In conjunction with Neptune, lots of confusion, trickery, and lying especially running through the media can be expected. In the political situation, this can mean rampant underhandedness, and scandal mongering.

The effects of this eclipse, especially for NYC, are bad for the market. The eclipse, as well as Mercury and Neptune, show up in the 5th house in NYC. The 5th house rules speculation. What is means, in a nutshell, is that the stock market will be erratic through the coming months. We see both Mars and Saturn in the 2nd house. Mars is square Mercury and Neptune. Saturn is square Jupiter and the eclipse. Fluctuations will involve some sharp drops.

The upside of this is that there are a lot more events in the heavens that can mitigate this one's effects. I would not, however, advise wearing rose colored glasses, Pisces notwithstanding.

To follow articles such as this, click the join button at the upper right of this column.

Raphael gives in-depth personal Chinese and western astrological readings and psychic readings. For information visit  www.raphaelsimons.com

An astrological picture of the GOP in 2016

The Republican party, or GOP, was born on March 20, 1854 at 6:30 PM LMT, in Ripon, Wisconsin, its main objective at that time being the abolition of slavery. Because of the current turmoil in that party, I drew up its natal and progressed charts to see how it shows up and how it might resolve.

The natal Ascendant of the GOP is 4 degrees Libra. There is a lunar eclipse coming on March 9, 2016 at 3 degrees Libra. The eclipse is not visible in the US, therefore won't act destructively on the GOP chart, but, it will signify an important development in the GOP's outlook this coming spring.

The outstanding transits on the GOP's birthday, March 20, 2016 are Venus conjunct Neptune at 14 Pisces, both conjunct the GOP's natal Neptune, and these opposite the transiting Moon, and transiting Jupiter. This shows the party not in the happiest of moods, in a state of confusion, and laboring under no small degree of underhandedness.
It is very significant to note that 2016 - 2017 marks the GOP's Neptune Return. Not exact this year, Neptune returns to its original degree and minute, 14:02 Pisces, in May, 2017. Because Neptune in the natal chart is in the 6th house, the Neptune return brings out the critical question, who are you serving?

In the progressed chart, we find the progressed Mars trine to natal Venus. When the party was born, Venus, the ruler of the Ascendant, was in tight opposition with Mars, foreshadowing the coming Civil War. This year, 2016, we find Mars trine the natal Venus. It gives the party the ability to go forward into new territory, to have success with the public, to make new agreements and deals, accept challenges, take a stand, and profit by using dynamic energy.

In the converse progressed chart, we find the converse progressed Ascendant, conjunct converse progressed and natal Uranus, square converse progressed Mars. These are potentially disastrous aspects that demand revolutionizing, and can break up the party.
Converse progressed Saturn is square natal Venus warning of serious errors of judgment, unfavorable publicity, harsh criticism, and huge losses of money, The old guard appears to be killing the party.
Converse progressed Venus is sextile natal Jupiter to tell us that all is not doom and gloom, and that the party will do well to expand its vision.

In the Directed chart we find the Ascendant conjunct the natal Neptune, and the Descendant, conjunct Mercury opposite the natal Neptune, pointing out, yet again, the underhandedness of unscrupulous people causing chaotic conditions to undermine the party's better interests.
The directed Mid Heaven is square natal Neptune. This gives very bad publicity to the party. The worst things are being said.
The directed Mars is square natal Uranus. The factions of the party champion lost causes, and many in the party are upset and angry.
The solar arc directed Moon is sextile the natal Sun and square the natal Mars showing opportunity born out of conflict.

The party is being crippled, and needs to be revolutionized.
Transiting Uranus comes to trine the natal Moon this April 2 - 18, and then again next November 27 - January 29, 2017. This does bring new ideas.
Another hopeful sign is that Jupiter enters the 1st house of the natal chart in later September. This will give the party a more hopeful outlook.

Come November, the progressed Moon forms no aspect; the converse progressed Moon forms square to converse progressed Sun; the directed Moon form trine to natal Sun and Mercury, and square to Natal Venus. The party is struggling.

All in all, it looks like tremendous conflict through which the party has a good chance of being renovated, reorganized, revolutionized, and/or regrouped. There is the danger that it will fragment, and it will be very difficult for the party to get a handle on the treacherous elements that are undermining its better interests at this time. The party is in turmoil. And it is not the fault of Trump. He didn't invent the heavens, nor did he found the GOP. He's sailing on rough seas. And the country is in turmoil.

This article in no way offers to predict who will win the upcoming election.

To follow articles such as this, click the join button at the upper right of this column.

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

The death of Scalia: astrological view

Whatever your or my opinion of Scalia is, it has nothing to do with this report. It is simply whether there was any indication of his being assassinated that the following charts were made: his natal chart, progressed and directed charts, and his diurnal transit chart on the day of his death. I also calculated the Part of Assassination, and its solstice point to see if it registered at his death, which it did.

First, to ask whether his death was natural, we look at aspects formed in the progressed and directed charts. The following show up.

1. Progressed Ascendant trine his natal Jupiter,
2. Progressed Saturn is conjunct his natal Sun,
3. Progressed Mars is square his natal Saturn, (Mars being the ruler of his health),
4. Converse progressed Moon is square his natal Mercury,
5. Directed Ascendant separating from square his natal Mars,
6. Directed Mars trine his natal Moon and sextile his natal Uranus,
7. Directed Pluto in opposition to his natal Mars.

The above aspects show that he had been having health issues. However, Ascendent trine Jupiter (1), and Mars trine Moon and sextile Uranus (6) gave him strength. Certainly, the Ascendant trine Jupiter would have protected his health.
Saturn and Sun (2) were in conjunction all through his life, his natal Saturn at 13:52 Pisces, and his natal Sun at 21:20 Pisces, so the conjunction of Saturn and Sun, although it would have weakened his vitality to some degree, cannot be said to have killed him. With a Saturn-Sun conjunction a person can be mean spirited and live well into old age.
Mars square his Saturn (3) is a violent aspect.
Pluto and Mars in opposition (7) is also a violent aspect.
The only lunar aspect at the time of his death was converse progressed Moon square Mercury, showing mental strain. The converse progressed Moon was at 28:53 Scorpio, natal Mercury is at 28:15 Aquarius. This is not a death aspect, but one showing mental tension, and, with the Mars aspects to Saturn and Pluto, potential quarreling.

Scalia's natal chart has Moon at 3:24 Scorpio in the 1st house in opposition to Uranus at 3:05 Taurus in the 7th house. It shows him to have been a passionate, witty, and eccentric character, with a genius especially for law, who attracted open enemies, and enjoyed cutting repartee. He was very strong in his opinions, and had deep, conflicted emotions.

Now, the Part of Assassination, a mathematical calculation that allegedly registers in all charts of people assassinated, in Scalia's natal chart is at 17:28 Scorpio in the 1st house, its solstice point being 12:32 Aquarius in his 4th house. These form aspects with his natal Saturn, Sun, Neptune, Venus, and Mars. So how the Part of Assassination registers at Scalia's death is like this: the directed Mid Heaven is exactly to the minute square the solstice point of the natal Part of Assassination (directed MC being 12:32 Taurus, and the solstice point of the natal Part of Assassination being 12:32 Aquarius) meaning that his career reached its ultimate turning point through assassination. Conversely, his directed 4th house cusp is exactly square the solstice point of the Part of Assassination, meaning that the end of his life involves his assassination. We also find the directed Mercury, at 17:01 Taurus in opposition with the natal Part of Assassination. Mercury confirms that Scalia was assassinated, although you probably won't hear about it. Scorpio hides its events, and suggests that the causes are extremely deep and complex.

The transits on Scalia's last birthday, March 11, 2015, showed no sign of his death. What happened does not appear to be natural.

The diural transit chart of Scalia's day of death has the following aspects.

Mars in the 2nd house trine Scalia's natal Sun and quincunx the diurnal Part of Assassination. He was in high spirits that day.
Saturn trine natal Mars. It is unlikely that he was ill at the time.
Venus opposite natal Pluto. It is probable that he was being hunted - how ironic.
Sun conjunct natal Venus. He was in happy spirits.
Moon was conjunct natal Uranus and opposite natal Moon. His humor probably was probably sparkling. He had a wit.
Pluto square natal Mars and square transiting Uranus, with Uranus quincunx the natal Part of Assassination. This shows violence.

To follow articles such as this, click the join button at the upper right of this column.

Raphael gives in-depth personal astrological consultations. For information visit  www.raphaelsimons.com

Chinese new year predictions for year of Fire Monkey, 2016

2016 is the year of Fire Monkey. As with all signs, Monkey comes every 12 years, each under a different one of the 5 elements to complete its cycle of 60 years. There is a Fire Monkey, Earth Monkey, Metal Monkey, Water Monkey, and Wood Monkey.
The Fire Monkey is particularly active and smart. For the world this means 2016 is going to be a particularly active year with lots of fluctuations in the markets and lots of political drama, especially in the west.
In fengshui, south directions are not considered lucky this year. Avoid sitting with your back to the south at important events this year unless you wear or use the color green.

The following are predictions for each of the 12 Chinese zodiac signs. To get complete, detailed predictions, of course, you want your entire Chinese horoscope drawn up and read. But what follows gives a pretty good idea, especially if you were born in a year or day of one of the following signs.

Rat is in harmony with Monkey. Monkey is in a creative relationship with Rat. It supports and helps Rat. This is a good year for improving your home, learning new things, and cultivating whatever supports your health and well being. This is also a good year for initiating a new project, starting a new job, moving to a new location, or starting a new adventure in life.

Ox is in a time that is good for making plans, tending to works in progress, and saving money. Monkey encourages Ox to be courageous and use planning ability to advantage. This is a good year for you if you are an artist or work in a talent related profession. Be careful to avoid fights. This is not a good time for lawsuits, or legal entanglements. If you are married, or are in an intimate partnership, Monkey warns that it is to your advantage to be supportive of your spouse to prevent any unnecessary trouble or misfortune. 

Tiger may have a lively year head. This year favors moving, traveling, making needed changes in your career, and/or redesigning your home. This may be a productive year of increased vitality and good health. And it may be socially lively. People may make demands on you that you will have to stand up to. Fire Monkey can also challenge your reputation, cause entanglements in love and even harm your relationship if you are not careful. If you are a woman, however, this could also be a year to get married. You are attracting attention.

Rabbit This is a good year for romance. At the same time, Monkey, being your Robbing Star, while making you sharp and smart this year, warns that you can be used, and taken unfair advantage of, even robbed if you don't protect yourself. Monkey also tells you to be practical. You can manage your affairs very well and be successful at work, and with your finances this year.

Dragon is in harmony with Monkey. The combination of Fire Monkey with Dragon is highly intelligent. This is a good time to develop your projects and career, and to take up a new study. Monkey also favors you if you are an artist, or are in a talent related profession. To build up your work will bring money.

Snake may have a complicated year ahead. Fire Monkey encourages Snake to be independent, to be confident, stay focused with your own ideas and opinions, and achieve your goals, and prosper through sheer diligence. Monkey gives you the courage and planning ability to do that. If you are alone, that works well enough for you. But if you aren't, for all your work and productivity, demands will be made on you that could make you feel lonely or misunderstood. Avoid needless fights. If you are married or are in an intimate relationship, pay attention to your spouse, especially if they are having trouble.

Horse is at a high point this year. This could be a year of great success. It could also be a year in which you precipitate a disaster. The Fire Monkey gives you a Knife Blade star. You may find your patience tried. This year favors you, nonetheless, if you are determined, competitive, tough, decisive, flexible, and opportunistic. It works well if you are in a speculative career. You could make a lot of money. Monkey encourages you to make strategic changes in your career this year, also travel, move house, and/or redesign your home. If you are married, be careful; Fire Monkey does not favor relations with in-laws this year.

Sheep is in a year good for harvesting, or reaping the rewards of work begun in the past. Monkey favors those Sheep who are creative, or who pursue talent related professions. The down side of the year is that you might feel lonely at times, even if you are in a relationship, and could be taken unfair advantage of, notwithstanding, Monkey gives Sheep a keen mind that helps in making shrewd decisions.

Monkey This is your year. Fire Monkey gives you the ability to take advantage of any difficult situation, and get out of anything you got into that you don't like. This is a good year for initiating a new life, new path in life, or new lease on life. It also favors exploring things metaphysical and gaining from alternative sources of knowledge. If you are independent you can make good money. It is very good to take the lead now.

Rooster is at an end in some respect. Something significant reaches completion this year. A predicament is resolved. Fire Monkey favors Roosters who are trustworthy, upright, disciplined, and forthright, and who are good at management. It also favors Roosters in legal and legislative fields. It seems this year is, at least in part, about letting go of the past and tending to the practicalities of life.

Dog is in a good year to accumulate wealth and to bury old stuff. The past is the past. It is time to move on. Monkey is Dog's traveling star. This is a good year to take up something new in your career, travel, move house, redo your home, or fix it up finally. If you are an artist, or in a talent related field, this is a good year for you. Money comes as the result of productive work.

Pig welcomes everything new this year. Don't lay back. Monkey clashes with Pig, and can make a mess of your affairs this year if you do. Monkey favors you if you do some research and investigation, maybe such things as metaphysical studies too, and devote your energies to helping others. Monkey also gives you a sharp, bright mind, and warns you not to let others drain and take unfair advantage of you this year.


Raphael gives in-depth personal Chinese astrological readings. They cover everything in life. For information visit  www.raphaelsimons.com 

Raphael's book on fengshui, Feng Shui Step by Step, is reprinted and available at Amazon and www.createspace.com/3472024

Mars in Scorpio

Mars entered Scorpio on January 3 at 2:34 PM GMT and will be in Scorpio until March 6, when he enters Sagittarius.
Mars is at home, and strong in Scorpio. In the ancient book, The Sephir Yetzirah, Mars is said to be wise in Scorpio. As shown by the planetary aspects at the time he entered Scorpio, Mars' wisdom is best understood now as cunning.
The aspects were as follows.
1. Mars was square Mercury, with the Moon applying to conjunction Mars and square Mercury (soon to turn retrograde).
2. The Sun was applying to conjunction Pluto square Uranus.
3. Venus was applying to square Neptune and conjunction Saturn.
In a nutshell, these are destructive, evil, violent aspects with no small degree of treachery. At a glance we can anticipate more strife, terrorism, trickery, and lying. In the context of the more sanguine winter solstice charts, these prognostications should be softened to some degree; it could be worse.

What these mean:

1. The Moon applying to conjunction Mars square Mercury, with Mercury about to turn retrograde, shows a war of words, and threats that are not kept. One example: Obama's executive action about the guns will not amount to much. Another: the situation in Oregon is misrepresented by the media and Feds. It is an ugly distraction; watch for other sly moves in the making these coming days. Another example: the sword rattling between Iran and the Saudis won't get too far - yet, but will fester. Don't get upset for the wrong reasons. We can expect lots of terrorism not only in violent events, but through media. These are dangerous days. The demons feed on your fear.
Another reading of Mars square Mercury is theft. On a worldwide level this could have huge implications.

2. The Sun applying to conjunction Pluto square Uranus points to violent upsets and fighting in the world.

3. Venus square Neptune points to scandals, social unrest, and financial fraud. Venus in conjunction with Saturn shows financial losses, problems with banks, and depreciation of stocks. It also points to mistreatment of women.

Mars in Scorpio points to places ruled, at least in part, by Scorpio. Trouble spots in the world may include Turkey, Syria, Algeria, Judea, Morocco, Norway, Catalonia, and so on. Cities that come under Scorpio include Washington DC, Baltimore, Milwaukee, Cincinnati, New Orleans, and so on.

The charts for the UK, EU, US, and China all have Mars in succeedent houses, meaning the world economy is being affected by this strife. Economic conditions will fluctuate. The markets are unstable and apt to gyrate.

The chart for the US has Uranus in the 2nd house, Moon and Mars in the 8th, and Sun and Pluto in the 11th. This shows harsh financial conditions - sudden losses. Saturn is in the 10th house square Neptune in the 1st house. The President looks bad to the people. Saturn afflicted in the 10th house shows misfortune to people in positions of authority. The people of this country are discontent.
Venus is conjunct the MC in the US chart, and, square Neptune in the 1st house, shows a powerful woman subject to scandal, and disrespect.

The chart for Tehran has Moon and Mars in the 4th house with Mercury in the 7th. This shows possible fires in public buildings, earthquakes, and troubles for the government, especially since Uranus is in the 10th house square Pluto and Sun. The square of Moon and Mars to Mercury in the 7th house shows double dealing and breaking of agreements with foreign powers, diplomatic troubles, international trade disputes, and disagreements in international affairs.

The chart for Moscow is similar to that of Tehran, but has Uranus in interception in the 10th house. This points to someone very influential, and very high up in an inner, secret, circle of the Government possibly being cut out or dying.

To follow articles such as this, click the join button at the upper right of this column.

Raphael gives private astrological consultations in all areas, concerns, and questions in life. For contact information visit  www.raphaelsimons.com