Astrological view of the winter solstice, new moon, Uranus direct, and Saturn ingress into Sagittarius

There were 4 events happening almost simultaneously: the winter solstice; Uranus turning direct; the New Moon; and Saturn's ingress into Sagittarius. This is intense.

Uranus turned direct at 10:46 PM GMT, and the winter solstice was at 11:04 PM GMT, 12/21. The turning point of Uranus counts heavily at this solstice. In the UK, and in the EU, the Ascendant, in Virgo says that the effects of the winter solstice will hold for 6 months. Uranus turning direction brings unexpected, sudden developments.

Uranus is exactly square to Pluto. Uranus is at 12:34 Aries and Pluto is at 12:49 Capricorn. This is a violent aspect. Its effects are seen in the publicized violence in NYC and the US around the time of the solstice.

In the solstice charts for the UK and EU, Uranus is in the 7th house conjunct the 8th house cusp, affecting international relations bearing on money and deaths. There are 5 planets in the 4th house
 (Sun, Mercury, Pluto, Venus, and the Moon). The 4th house rules the land and real estate. It also rules opposition to the Government. Sun, Mercury, Pluto and Venus all square Uranus show turmoil. Uranus is in mutual reception and sextile with Mars in the 5th house showing diplomatic activities aimed at mitigating the danger. There will be military and/or police activity in this connection as well. Uranus in 7 exactly square Pluto shows terrorist activities to be expected in Europe these coming months.

The new moon was at 1:37 AM GMT on 12/22. The Sun, Moon, Mercury, Pluto, and Venus are in the 3rd house, all square Uranus in the 6th. The 3rd house brings the turmoil into the streets. Mars is in the 4th house in wide opposition with Jupiter in the 10th house showing trouble coming to the government. Jupiter, however, shows that the government moves to avert trouble. The conditions are tense. Acts of violence are to be expected.

Saturn moved into Sagittarius at 4:34 PM GMT on 12/23. Saturn will stay in Sagittarius until he goes back into Scorpio where he will stay from mid-June to mid-September 2015, and then move through Sagittarius until he enters Capricorn in December 2017

Saturn in Sagittarius is good for science. It will advance space exploration. Saturn in Sagittarius also inclines to religion. But, because he lacks patience in fire signs, he will be intolerant, not a good sign considering the current state of affairs in the world. Saturn will also bring some far-reaching developments to international trade and finances. When Saturn comes to trine Uranus in 2017 we can expect a sharp upturn in economic conditions, especially affecting the stock market. There will be some brilliant technological developments around that time.

Saturn will come to square Neptune, on and off, in 2015 and 2016. This will bear negatively upon oil, and from time to time affect the stock markets. Jupiter will come to sinister square Saturn (Jupiter in Virgo, Saturn in Sagittarius) in 2016 marking the 3rd quarter of the Jupiter-Saturn cycle that began in 2000, the cycle that saw the building boom and crash. It is probable that in 2016 some large businesses will go under, and/or give way to new developments. The next Jupiter-Saturn cycle will begin in 2020 at 00 degrees Aquarius, at the height of the currently up-trending business and real estate cycle, (as shown by the transiting north lunar node). It will mark a revolutionizing of world-wide communications and social relations beyond anything we currently know. Before we get there, however, we have to go through Saturn in Sagittarius and then Saturn in Capricorn (2017-18 to 2020) which will tend to crystallize existing corporate structures. Saturn in Sagittarius is neither patient nor tolerant. Sagittarius is expansive. Saturn contracts and limits. Under pressure Sagittarius is warlike. It is a mark of cruelty. Saturn in Sagittarius does not pacify. It will cause trouble in international trade relations. Weak businesses will collapse. Strong businesses will become leaner. It spells more poverty amid growing wealth. Competition will intensify. The great danger is hubris.

Countries, and areas ruled by Sagittarius include the Arab countries, Australia, Hungary, Spain, Southern France (Province). Big changes involving no small degree of trouble will occur in the Arab lands.

The solstice chart for the USA has Cancer rising. It is good for 3 months, as compared to the charts for the UK and EU which have Virgo rising, and are therefore good for 6 months.

Looking at the winter solstice and the Uranus direct charts for the USA, both charts have the Moon, Sun, Mercury, Pluto, and Venus in the 6th house, and Uranus in the 10th. Jupiter is in the 2nd. There is a big conflict between services and the Government, as demonstrated by the trouble between the Mayor of NYC and the NYPD. On a national level, there is no small degree of disagreement between the Executive and the Military. Uranus afflicted in the 10th house shows unanticipated trouble in Government circles, which, unless handled carefully, could result in defeat.
The 5 planets in the 6th house square Uranus focus on troubles affecting public services. The Moon, ruler of the chart, in in the 6th house shows distress.
Jupiter in the 2nd house shows increasing wealth. The stock market hit a new high. Jupiter widely opposed by Mars in the 8th house could also mean increasing taxes, and/or huge expenses.

The new moon chart has the Sun, Moon, Mercury, Pluto, and Venus in the 5th house giving strong emphasis on entertainments, also diplomatic affairs. These 5 planets square to Uranus in the 9th house point to difficulties in international affairs involving trade, but also to subversives entering the country from abroad. Neptune in the 7th house warns of the same.

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Is the IS claim to have a dirty bomb true? A horary astrological answer.

There is a report that Islamic State has a 'dirty bomb' according to a British jihadi. It is claimed that 40kg of uranium was taken from an Iraqi university. Is this true? A horary astrological chart was made to find out.
The question is shown by the 3rd house. The ruler of the 3rd house is Mercury. Mercury is with Saturn, the Sun, and Venus to confirm that it is true. The Moon is in Taurus also confirming that it is true. The Ascendant is in a fixed sign, also confirming this.
This report is bad. The Moon is in an angle (10th house) square Jupiter and opposition Saturn, meaning the bad report is essentially true.
There are also a couple of aspects tending to the contrary which may modify the answer to some degree. For instance, Mercury is in his sign of detriment, Sagittarius, and combust the Sun to make him weak, and the Mid Heaven is not in a fixed sign.
Bottom line: not everything reported is accurate, but the gist of the report is true.
The Ascendant is at 1 degree Leo, making the matter young. In other words, it is in process, and will be for a while, as the 2nd house cusp is also in Leo, tying the near future to the present. It is happening. They are currently in the process of making such a bomb. 

They also claim to be targeting airports, possibly in Europe for before Christmas holidays. This is to be taken seriously.
Mars in this chart is at 29 degrees Capricorn, the end of the rope, denoting time running out.
Jupiter rising in the 2nd house trine and in mutual reception the Sun shows protection coming.

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New moon, 11/22 in western and Chinese astrology

The new moon of 11/22 came at 7:33 AM EST. Here is what it brought.
We have in the USA chart Mercury, Saturn, Sun, Moon, and Venus in the 12th house, putting emphasis on issues of crime, espionage, and secret enemies. Venus is conjunct the ASC, softening the untoward indications; things are not as bad as they might seem. But Pluto and Mars are rising in the 2nd house showing trouble coming up. Pluto is square Uranus in the 4th house showing that trouble connected to conflict in the Government. Uranus in the 4th house afflicted also shows storms and potential earthquakes coming. Uranus, in mutual reception with Neptune also reads in the 2nd house along with Mars and Pluto. These planets in the 2nd house do not register well for the economic outlook this month. They also warn of erratic conditions in the stock market.

The Chinese astrological chart shows the following. The signs for the year, month, day, and hour of the new moon are Wood Horse, Wood Pig, Fire Rooster, and Wood Dragon, respectively. The season is winter, i.e., Water.
Wood element is strongest, and Metal element is weakest. The strong Wood points to anger, but a lot of creative energy. The weak Metal points to weak boundaries. Watch what is happening.
The entire configuration of the chart favors people who are benevolent, and caring, who endure hardships, work hard, and who seek tranquility, also people who are engaged in academic studies, and the pursuit of knowledge. It favors such professions as academics, research, teaching, publishing, the arts, metaphysics, religion, nursing, and philanthropy.
The configuration allows for high intelligence and makes it possible to change problematic situations to advantage.
The stars called Tien Yi, Tien de Gui Ren, and Yue de Gui Ren appear in this. Together, they resolve predicaments, ease conflicts, and bring good luck.
For people born in the year or day of Monkey, Rat, or Dragon, this month favors romantic affairs.
This month encourages people born in the year or day of Snake, Rooster, or Ox to be proactive in developing their careers.
This month favors people born in the year or day of Horse with prosperity. It is a good month to develop your prospects.
People born in the year or day of Tiger are encouraged to take advantage of every good opportunity that shows up this month.
In general, the month favors those with sharp intelligence and perception.

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The October eclipses

There were two eclipses in October, a lunar eclipse on Oct. 8, and a solar eclipse on Oct. 23. Here are some of the things they show.

The Lunar eclipse of Oct. 8 was at 15 degrees Aries. A traditional reading of a lunar eclipse in the middle of Aries is pestilence. The first thing that comes to mind is ebola. If this is so, we can expect it to run rampant over the coming three months, at least. This will happen, especially in west Africa.
The eclipsed Moon was in conjunction with Uranus at 14 degrees Aries, and in grand trine in Fire, showing rapid growth, the grand trine being between the eclipsed Moon and Uranus at 15 and 14 degrees Aries, respectively, Mars at 16 degrees Sagittarius and Jupiter at 17 degrees Leo. The Moon was also opposite Venus at 10 degrees Libra showing losses.

The Eclipse Moon was in the 10th house of the chart of the NY Stock Exchange. While the fall equinox chart showed positive growth, from Jupiter trine Uranus, Uranus being in the 10th house of the stock exchange chart, the eclipse shows a more erratic picture developing. In the lunar eclipse chart Jupiter, separating from trine Uranus, is coming to square Saturn. With the eclipse in the 10th house of the stock exchange, and with Jupiter square Saturn, an erratic pattern has been developing. It is seen more clearly in the solar eclipse chart in which Jupiter is in tighter square to Saturn. This developing square presages a downward trend in certain sectors of the market in the summer of 2015 and spring of 2016 when Jupiter will be in exact sinister square Saturn. Sinister square means cutting off dead wood. The market will make necessary corrections. At that time the general discontentment with and in both political parties will also grow much louder. Jupiter and Saturn are the significators of the Republicans and Democrats, respectively. Saturn will be in peregrine in Sagittarius, and Jupiter will be in detriment in Virgo, bad for both. Both parties need to clean up their act. The Democrats will abandon their Potus.

The current Jupiter Saturn cycle began in the spring of 2000 that saw the beginning of the housing boom, now history. The cycle reached Jupiter dexter square Saturn in late 2006, the peak of the housing market, soon to turn. Then it came to Jupiter opposite Saturn in spring, 2011 at the low point of the recession, still on-going for many people, despite what the Government wants you to think, and in mid to late 2016 the cycle comes to Jupiter sinister square Saturn when the market will have to make corrections; it could mean deepening poverty for many people in the world. Not everything will go south, however; the lunar north node will be in Virgo, a fairly high place for the business cycle, the highest places being Leo and Cancer. So, the corrections won't mean a general disaster, despite what certain fear mongers would have you believe. The mood is fearful these days. The next Jupiter Saturn cycle will begin in 6 years, in the fall of 2020 in Capricorn, marking the start of a new cycle of growth and decay in world wide business and financial organization. The real estate market, especially in the more desirable locations, will be high at that time. It could remain high into the mid 20s (2025) when the lunar node is in Pisces and Jupiter is again past dexter square Saturn. New organization in the '20s will make for a more orderly, constructive trend in the world. Technology will advance very far. One of the more hopeful signs will be in the field of agriculture. By 2020 we will be long past the strife shown by the Uranus-Pluto square of 2011 through 2015. I would say the housing market will reach its peak in the early to mid 20s. If you think of selling, wait if you can. The turning point could be towards 2025. The later 20s into early 30s could see a developing major international conflict, or war in which this country is attacked.

The Solar Eclipse at 00 degrees Scorpio falls exactly conjunction the natal Sun of Queen Elizabeth, and exactly conjunction the natal Moon of Prince Charles. It presages deaths in the royal family within 1 to 2 years. The progressed and directed charts of Prince Charles confirm this. We don't say who. The solar eclipse chart for the UK, putting Uranus in the 10th house square Pluto in the 6th, also shows sudden disruptions, or emergencies coming up with the probable defeat of the current Government within a year, unless extreme measures are taken. Huge sums of money are in danger of being lost. Poverty is a major issue in both UK and the EU.
Venus, in the solar eclipse chart, is in Via Combust Way, in her detriment, and in conjunction with the eclipse, therefore completely burnt out and powerless. In the UK chart, she rules the 11th house, meaning the Parliament. We can expect noticeable changes to come in this area.

The UK chart, being close to Bruxelles, this solar eclipse chart shows similar conditions, and changes to come to the Governance of the EU within 1 year.

In China the solar eclipse falls in the 1st house, with Venus ruling the 1st house. This reflects the serious discontentment and unrest of the people, especially in Hong Kong. It shows a great need for changes this coming year to mitigate more unsatisfactory conditions bound to develop. Jupiter is in the 10th house benefiting the ruling circle. But Jupiter is square Saturn in the 2nd house denoting a strong disparity between the wealthy and the poor of that country. This, and other economic considerations must be addressed.

The solar eclipse in the beginning of Scorpio traditionally presages war, bloodshed, treason, and treachery. Scorpio rules such places as Turkey, Judea (Israel), Syria, Algeria, Catalonia, and so on; and such cities as Washington DC, Baltimore; Liverpool, UK, and so on.

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What's up with Kim Jong Un?

A horary astrological chart made at 9:21 PM on 10/9/14 may give a clue. This is what it says.
Kim's ruler (7th house ruler) is Jupiter in his 9th applying to square Saturn in his 12th. He is having trouble where he is and wants to leave. Jupiter applying to square Saturn shows meeting with an elder or superior person, and the meeting is not desirable. 9th house says he is far from home, possibly with in-laws, strangers, traveling, studying, or attending classes. His ruler conjunct the 4th house cusp from the 3rd leads one to believe he will return. His ruler is not in his 12th, so it rules out the thought of detention. Jupiter is in Leo in his 9th house is S.S.W., Leo is E. by N. He is somewhere to the SW of Pyongyang. Jupiter is direct and well placed in Leo, and not in his 6th or 12th or conjunct a malefic says he is alive. Saturn cadent says he is worrying about his health. 
Mercury is retrograde in his 11th house, in mundane trine to the ASC. Changes of mind are not to his disadvantage. Is he undergoing a training? Moon is applying to trine Pluto, counterparallel retrograde Mercury, square his ruler Jupiter, opposite Saturn, parallel Jupiter, and counterparallel Saturn. The Saturn aspects mean a long time. He will be gone a long time. Moon at 8 degrees Taurus in the 12th house last over Uranus at 14 degrees Aries shows something of a revolutionary nature, or some kind of (power) rearrangement that happened over 30 years ago that bears upon this matter.


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Fall equinox in astrology

The fall equinox this year came on September 23, at 3:30 AM GMD to tell us what we might anticipate in the world this fall. The Moon at the equinox was at 17:12 degrees Virgo, 12:48 from conjunction, presaging endings, or closings. The Moon so close to the Sun is weak. The Moon is also conjunct Venus. Venus stands between the Moon and the Sun. This makes endings fortunate for some, unfortunate for others. Venus is in her fall in Virgo, meaning, she is also weak. Venus is at 21 degrees Virgo, i.e., in the 3rd decanate of Virgo; it shows her giving in. The 3rd decanate of Virgo has the key word, Renunciation. In a nutshell, we are at a threshold and are having to let go of what we may have been holding dear in order to move forward. The Moon is in her 14th Mansion, and 26th House. The 14th Mansion, called Achmech, increases caution; the 26th house warns of potential losses of money. Venus is in mutual reception with Mercury, showing that there are always ways around things. It points to finagling in the financial world.

Jupiter is at 14:31 Leo, trine Uranus 15: 06 Aries. Uranus is in the 10th house of the NY Stock Exchange chart. The trine of Uranus and Jupiter should register, especially in the lunar month of September 24 to October 23, as a general rise in the stock market. On October 8 there is a lunar eclipse at 6:56 AM EDT at 15:05 Aries exactly conjunct the fall equinox Uranus trine Jupiter. The eclipse Moon is above the horizon at the eclipse; its effects will be felt over a three month span more or less. The market may rise even more, but could also become erratic.

The equinox chart also has Mars square Neptune. This is a violent aspect. In the charts for the UK and EU we see Mars in the 4th house square Neptune in the 7th house. This shows troubles in the Government. Also treachery, plots and schemes coming from foreign elements, and fires in public places and buildings. There are likelihoods of riots and terrorist activities in the UK and Europe. Be on the lookout for possible explosions. Mars afflicted in the 4th house by Neptune also points to seismic and volcanic activity.

The equinox chart for Hong Kong has Mars in the 1st house square Neptune in the 4th house. The people are discontent and agitated. Protests could become riots. Neptune shows treacherous elements involved, aiming to intensify the trouble. How far it goes is a question. The equinox Sun, Venus, and Moon are in the 10th house. The 10th house ruler is Mercury, and Mercury is in mutual reception Venus. The Government will calm it down.    

The Moon, Venus, and equinox Sun in the charts for the UK and EU are in the 2nd house, pointing to financial concerns being foremost through the fall. There are losses to be dealt with.

The equinox chart for Jerusalem shows violence in neighboring lands: Mars is in the 3rd house. Saturn is also in the 3rd house conjunct the evil star Serpentis. Malignant forces are nearby. The Moon, Venus, and equinox Sun are in the 1st house, with Moon sextile Saturn, and Sun sextile Mars. The outlook is essentially positive and resolute. Sacrifices will be made where and when necessary.

The equinox chart for Washington DC has the Moon in the 4th house, and Venus, the Sun, and Mercury in the 5th house. The Sun and Mercury are in interception. It shows secret activity going on in diplomatic circles. Neptune is in the 10th house square Mars in the 6th house. There is a sharp disagreement between the President and the military. Neptune afflicted in the 10th house also points to scandals in high Government circles. The popularity of the President is falling. Neptune in this chart is mutual reception Uranus, with Uranus in the 11th house, both Neptune and Uranus are retrograde. It shows secret deals between the President and members of Congress. Jupiter is in the 3rd house square Saturn in the 6th house. There is considerable tension between the Democrats and Republicans. With Jupiter rising in the 3rd house trine Uranus in the 11th house, the Republicans appear to have an advantage.                                          

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Will Scotland separate from UK?

Looking at this question in horary astrology, a chart was cast for 9/9/2014 in NYC to see what it had to say about the matter. The Moon is forming eight aspects. This means shilly-shallying, and nothing simple and straight forward to be expected. The Moon's first aspect is square Pluto retrograde, and her final aspect is counterparallel Neptune retrograde, meaning what began badly will run into confusion and end, after a long time, badly. The Moon is also besieged between Neptune retrograde and Uranus retrograde, meaning one bad turn leads to another; trouble behind, and trouble ahead. Besieged Moon does not function freely. Also Moon in Aries is apt to run off course. The matter is extremely complicated. It is disadvantageous for Scotland. Retrograde Neptune behind the Moon shows change involving loss. Scotland will lose. Neptune in Pisces is oil in the north sea. Retrograde, it is being withheld. Moon counterparallel to Neptune means it slips out of Scotland's control. The counterparallel also means when it is too late to do anything about it.
Mercury is the ruler of the 2nd house (what is coming up in the matter). Mercury is in Libra in the 6th house opposite the Moon. This means that confusion and disagreement will develop.

The Moon's aspects are as follows.

1. Square Pluto retrograde.
2. Trine Jupiter.
3. Opposition Mercury.
4. Parallel Uranus retrograde.
5. Counterparallel Mercury.
6. Conjunction Uranus retrograde.
7. Parallel Venus.
8. Counterparallel Neptune retrograde.

The Moon's aspects are three easy, five hard; the matter is difficult to work out. A lot of going back and forth is happening. The Moon rules the 3rd house (talks) and is in the 12th house (behind the scenes). The Moon also rules the 4th house (the people and the end of the matter). Moon in Aries wanders off course, and, with a majority of bad aspects, especially the last aspect bad, suggests that a lot of tangential issues come into play. The Moon's first aspect square Pluto retrograde in the 9th house (Pluto ruling the 7th house) shows the matter to be old and fraught with complications connected to (secret) foreign interests, some criminal. The Moon's final aspect counterparallel Neptune retrograde, with Neptune in the 11th house shows the matter confused. Parliament is confused. It will not be settled any time soon.
Mercury, ruler of the 2nd house (finances) is in opposition with the Moon. The move would be financially disadvantageous for the Scottish people, to put it mildly.
Saturn and Mars in the 7th house shows contention. Saturn in 7 says that the question itself needs to be questioned. Obviously something has to change in Scotland's relation to the UK, but the question might better be what and how.
That Scotland is moving to separate from the UK cannot be ignored. It points out something very deep in the UK that must be sorted out.
Venus is the ruler of the Ascendent in this chart. Pluto is the ruler of the 7th house. The relationship between the ruler of the Ascendent and the 7th house show the relationship, as a marriage. While Pluto is retrograde, Venus is applying to trine with Pluto. They are mutually applying to trine. The trine does not point to separation, but to agreement. A mutually acceptable agreement will be reached amid a lot of difficult issues that need sorting out. The relationship is extremely complex.
It all suggests something of a compromise will be made.

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Joan Rivers' death as seen in Chinese astrology

The signs of Joan Rivers' year, month, day, and hour of birth were Water Rooster, Earth Horse, Wood Snake, and Fire Ox, respectively. Her chart shows someone whose career was totally into entertainment. Her vital element was Water, showing her at her strongest in her 40s through 70s. Her peak cycle, being in her 80s, endangered her life.
Rivers' cycles made death possible in her cycle of 80 to 90. 2014 does not look like the time that she would naturally have passed away. She was killed. Her death was untimely. A natural year for her passing could have been anywhere from 2015, at the earliest, to 2021. The sign of the month in which she went through her fatal surgery is Water Rooster. She was born in the year of Water Rooster. Water Rooster violently attacks Water Rooster. This was obviously a terrible month for her to have had surgery.
Did she have enemies? She was born on a day of Wood. There is only one Wood in her chart. Metal kills Wood. Her chart has four Metals. Metal made her stand out very bravely, even brazenly. It does represent enemies. Yes, she had enemies.
Having only one Wood, and Wood being her ruling element, she had what is called in Chinese astrology a Flying Bird. The legend of Flying Bird is: "Flying Bird gets shot." Her outspokenness contributed to her vulnerability.
The element that killed her Flying Bird is Metal. We are now in the season of Chinese fall, the Metal season. With the lunar month beginning 5/29 , and running all the way up to 11/7, there is strong Metal. Rivers' death happened in the middle of a strong run of Metal. Still, the year doesn't show her death, and it would have been wrong to predict her natural death this year. Next year would have been possible. It appears she was killed.
One Wood with five Fires in her chart made her very outspoken. She was a firebrand, and she always loved being in the limelight. Still, all in all, predicting her death in 2014 seems a stretch. It should not have happened so early.

Chinese astrological portrait of Robin Williams

Robin Williams was born July 21, 1951 at 1:34 PM in Chicago. The signs of his year, month, day, and hour of birth are Metal Rabbit, Wood Sheep, Water Dog, and Fire Horse, respectively. His birth stars are 4 Wood, 3 Wood, and 6 Metal. He was a gentle, very lively, creative soul. His personality, as shown by the signs of his year and day of birth, shows a keen sense of discernment, intuitive sensitivity, aesthetic sensibility, and the ability to understand others objectively. He was very subtle, and made an art of life. He also was a deep thinker, and had the ability to hide what he thought. He had the ability to appear nonchalant and ebullient when he was troubled. He was very sociable and inclined to entertain others. He was gregarious and suspicious, and prone to confusion as he didn't trust his own better judgement and had an aimless habit of anxiety. It was extremely difficult for him to resolve doubts. Over and above this, he had a very charming manner.

Williams' birth stars show him to have been an expert navigator, but prone to recklessness, and apt to take on more than he could handle. He ran into serious difficulties several times in his life.

Williams' chart has 1 Water, 3 Woods, 4 Fires, 3 Earths, and 2 Metals. Fire is the predominant element, showing a very active character. Water is the weakest element, very dangerous for him, because he was born on a day of Water; he was ruled by Water. 1 Water for him was a sitting duck waiting to get shot. Weak Water, especially as the birth element, shows vulnerability of emotions, sexual functioning, nerves, bones, and brain.

Because of the weakness of his birth element, and because his chart has Heaven Medicine Star, it is obvious that Williams' was prone to serious illness. His suicide followed severe depression. He was emotionally ill, and had serious addiction problems. It is also reported that he had the beginning stages of Parkinson's.

The weakness of his birth element, Water, indicates that Metal was Williams' vital element. Metal was strong in Williams' chart between his age 35 and 55. Despite any untoward circumstance in his life, he was going strong in those years. Prior to that period, in the cycle between his age 25 and 35, he appears to have been having a rough ride. The cycle 25 to 35 is Water Dragon. The Water of that cycle brought out his worst weaknesses. Personal relations in that cycle were also turbulent.

The balance of yin and yang in Williams' chart shows 10 yin and 3 yang. It is extremely unbalanced, denoting a proneness to illness; he had a weak heart. The extreme yin of his chart also shows that he took in a great deal, and was easily affected by others. It is reasonable to say that his illness was triggered by the insanity of the circles in which he moved and worked. He was a victim of Hollywood.

The chart deity of Williams' chart is called Explicit Talent Deity. It shows that he was cut out for a career in entertainment. Had he managed to get past this period of illness he would have reached his peak in the cycle between age 65 and 75. But, between age 55 and 65 he was going through an impossibly difficult time.

Williams' birth element was Water. The cycle of 55 to 65 is Earth Ox. It is extremely strong Earth. Earth kills Water. Williams' weakest element, his birth element, was being killed in his cycle of age 55 to 65, hence his falling into his illness that lead to his suicide. The signs of Earth Ox also clash with Williams' career signs, Sheep and Horse, showing that he was discontent with his career toward the end.

Williams' vital element, the element that could have saved his life, Metal, is extremely weak in the 55 to 65 cycle. And in the year 2014, the year of Wood Horse, Metal is destroyed. Metal is weakened by Wood, and is killed by Fire. Horse is Fire. So, Wood and Fire ganged up and killed Williams' Metal. This year also put Williams' birth star in a pivotal position; this was a pivotal year in Williams' life. It shows that he was very angry toward the end of his life. He was in tremendous conflict. 8/11, the day of Williams' death was the day of Wood Tiger. Tiger is a Wood sign. So, there was extreme Wood. The Wood exhausted Williams' Metal, and so he died.

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The meaning of the lunation period of July 26 to August 25

The perfect image for this period is that of Hercules fighting the lion. This is a month of struggles. In astrology we see, at the new moon of July 26, Jupiter, the Sun, and the Moon all in conjunction in Leo square Mars in Scorpio, pointing to a time of extreme violence and hatred in the world. Then, at the full moon of August 10, we see the Sun and Moon square Saturn in Scorpio, another violent configuration. The tide of violence seen at the new moon is growing and will become much uglier by the full moon. It is possible that, toward and right after the full moon, in addition to all the fighting, there will be some major seismic event(s) and storms.

Saturn at the new moon was at 16:40 degrees Scorpio, quincunx Uranus at 16 degrees Aries showing, with the Mars square Jupiter and the new moon, a breaking point in the cosmic energy. Saturn at the full moon is at 17:00 degrees Scorpio, having moved only 20 minutes. And here he is very tightly square the Sun and Moon at 18 degrees Leo and Aquarius, respectively, a violent configuration. Because of the quincunx between Saturn and Uranus, the full moon and Sun sextile and trine Uranus, respectively, there will be violent release of the cosmic tension: a sudden move, or jolt. It could bring explosions, not only bombs and increased rioting, but possible volcanic activity. Uranus is in Aries, a fire sign. The Moon is in Aquarius, the sign ruled by Uranus, and is opposite the Sun and Square Saturn. This confirms the reading that there will be a violent jolt.

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Jupiter's Ingress into Leo

Jupiter entered Leo on July 16 at 11:31 AM GMD. A fiery planet in a fiery sign, Jupiter here expands all in the world that is fiery both positive and negative, creative and destructive. Jupiter's stormy side is expressed in fire; his more peaceful side is expressed in water. In the cabalistic book, the Sephir Yetzirah, Jupiter in Pisces, therefore in water signs, is said to be peaceful; and in Sagittarius, therefore in fire signs, is warlike. Leo, a potentially violent sign, is, nonetheless, the sign of love affairs, luck, games, sports, gambling, speculation, creative self-expression, children, and pure power. Jupiter magnifies these urges in the world from now until he enters Virgo, the sign of his detriment, in August, 2015. We may see world leaders becoming more emboldened in the coming months.

Jupiter in Leo affects developments in countries, regions, and cities under the influence of Leo, including France, Czech Republic, Italy, Sicily, the Alps, East Africa, Madagascar, Palestine, Iraq (Mesopotamia) Romania; Rome, Berlin, Philadelphia, Prague, Chicago, Mumbai, Damascus, Detroit, Jerusalem, Miami, Oklahoma City, San Francisco; Oregon, California (the extreme western part of the US), Western Canada, Alaska. Leo rules the Pacific Ocean and the Pacific Islands. Leo also rules forests in general. The influence of Jupiter in these areas can work benignly and destructively. The danger to the Pacific is seen in increasing radiation from Fukushima. There will also be an increase in volcanic and seismic activity in the Pacific islands, possibly including Hawaii. The danger to forests is fire. Fire may also come out in the release of methane gas in the far north.

The charts for the UK and EU show Jupiter in the 10th house at 00 degrees Leo. Jupiter is also in mutual reception with the Moon, giving him a second reading in the 5th house. The Sun is also in the 10th house, and the Moon is in the 6th. Jupiter entering Leo in the 10th house signifies an important change in the top circles of the Government. The mutual reception position of Jupiter links this to diplomatic affairs. The Moon in the 6th house stresses public and military, especially naval service. The Moon trine the Sun shows that these developments benefit the Governments. Mars, on the other hand, is in the 1st house square to the Sun in the 10th house showing that the people are angry. Saturn is in the 2nd house, retrograde, showing deep and persistent financial woes. The economies of the UK and EU are not exactly booming. Jupiter in the 10th house benefits the upper circles.

The chart for the US (at Washington DC) has Jupiter in the 1st house conjunct the Ascendant. In mutual reception with the Moon his mutual reception point is in the 8th house. This shows on the one hand, benefits to the people in general, and a noticible influx of new comers (immigrants). Uranus is in the 10th house square the Sun in the 12th house, square Pluto in the 6th and quincunx Saturn in the 4th, and with Mars in the 4th does not help the Potus. Uranus in the 10th not at all well supported brings sudden and unexpected, potential emergency-like developments to him and/or members of his circle. No doubt, security will be increased. DC is not exactly the safest place to be. The incumbency is also subject to sharp criticism; its opposition, as shown by Mars and Saturn in the 4th house, is doing its best to undermine it.

The chart for New York City has Jupiter rising just above the Ascendent, in the 12th house. Jupiter, the Sun, and Mercury are all in the 12th house. Jupiter's mutual reception degree is in the 8th house, all showing favorable developments with more money going into public institutions benefiting the city to some degree. The chart for NYC is better than that for DC: Jupiter conjunct the Ascendant is protective; Uranus in the NYC chart is not in the 10th house, but in the 9th stimulating international trade, but warning of accidents. Mars and Saturn in the 4th house, nonetheless, bring obstacles and difficulties to the city Government; affairs will not go smoothly (did they ever?). Saturn in the 4th retrograde in Scorpio also warns of underground water and sewer mains in need of repair. Mars in the 4th house square the Sun warns of fires in public buildings and possible explosions.

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A look at the July full moon in western and Chinese astrology

The full moon came on July 12 at 12:26 PM GMD. The Moon and Sun at 20 degrees Capricorn and Cancer, respectively were square to Uranus and Mars to form a grand cardinal cross, making this very tense. At the full moon we also see Mercury at 29 degrees Gemini, and Jupiter at 29 degrees Cancer, showing people running out of patience. At the same time there is a tight trine between Venus and Mars, very favorable for matters of love, but, considering the other aspects, it brings out passionate conflict. We can see this in the rise of anger and hatred in the word these days especially in the middle east and the Ukraine. The Moon was in her 23rd Mansion, called Casiah; it is unfavorable for coming to agreement, and indicates strife, envy and jealousy.

The full moon charts for the UK and EU have the Sun in the 10th house, the Moon in the 4th house, Mars in the 1st, and Uranus in the 7th, all showing tremendous tension in political and public affairs. There is great tension between the leadership and its opposition. The people are in opposition to the ruling class. Mars and Uranus in these charts show great anger and danger of violence. Saturn is in the 2nd house retrograde, shows poverty. The trine of Venus and Mars shows international agreements being made, but not to benefit to the people; the people are angry.

The full moon chart for the US has the Sun in the 12th house, the Moon in the 6th house, Mars in the 3rd house, and Uranus in the 9th house. These all indicate news coming late, trouble with public services, and heightened possibilities of air, car, and rail accidents. Be careful on the road. Violent storms are also indicated. The trine of Venus and Mars show agreements made between the Executive and Congressional branches of the Government in face of developing international emergencies. Mars in the 3rd house opposite Uranus in the 9th shows the matter of illegal immigration urgent. Mercury at 29 degrees Gemini in the 11th house shows members of Congress running out of patience. Jupiter at 29 degrees Cancer in the 12th house is unfortunate for children, possibly meaning a rising death rate.

The Chinese signs for the year, month, day, and hour of the full moon are Wood Horse, Metal Sheep, Wood Monkey, and Fire Rabbit, respectively. The chart has an aspect called Knife Blade. It is bad for children, and indicates dangers of accidents to the elderly. The chart shows unstable conditions in the days around the full moon, and encourages self-reliance. The elements in this chart are 4 Woods, 4 Fires, 4 Earths, 2 Metals, and 1 Water. The energy is profusely active, and needs limiting. If matters go on unchecked, relations are undone. The chart calls for discipline.

Boiled down to an I Ching hexagram, the full moon gives us hexagram 62, Preponderance of the Small, line 1. The hexagram says that when the bad days are over, everything will return to normal. The hexagram does not favor ascending; it favors descending, doing small things, and paying attention to details. The hexagram is not lucky in summertime. The 1st line of the hexagram says, make sure to be prepared before you act. Premature action brings inevitable danger.

All in all, this is pointing to a need to maintain self-control and be watchful in face of turbulent forces.

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The June new moon in western and Chinese astrology

The new moon came on June 27 at 9:10 AM GMD. It was at 5 degrees Cancer forming a trine with Neptune to bring lucky breaks for those of us who have planets at or near 5 degrees Cancer, Pisces, Scorpio, Taurus, and/or Capricorn.

In opposition with Pluto, the new moon also tells those of us who have planets at or near 5 degrees Cancer, Aries, Capricorn, or Libra to avoid compounding complicated conditions. The absence of someone depended on may frustrate you. Cooperation and patience are best.

Mercury is retrograde at the new moon pointing to minor hesitations, or changes of plans. Mercury at the new moon was at 25 degrees Gemini. He goes into direct station on Saturday, June 28, and turns direct on Wednesday, July 2. When in direct station, decisions will begin to firm up, hesitations notwithstanding. When direct, all will start moving forward once again. Where depends on the house in your chart in which Mercury turns direct. For example, if Mercury turns direct in your 10th house, your career should take a turn for the better. Mercury turns direct at 24 degrees Gemini when the north lunar node is at 24 degrees Libra. Being in the same degree, the turning point of Mercury will have strong impulse that should register in whichever house the north lunar node is transiting at this time as well. For example, if the north lunar node is transiting your 2nd house, it will register in your finances. The Mercury direct trine north lunar node is fortunate; it supports positive decisions and actions, including signing of papers, money transactions, business and financial deals, communications and possible travels.

Venus at the new moon is at 4 degrees Gemini, a critical degree, and is forming a square with Neptune, showing a danger of wasting money, indulging in the wrong things that can cause illness, and being prone to disappointment due to pie in the sky.

The piece de resistance in this chart, however, is Mars exactly opposite Uranus, an explosive aspect. Mars is in Libra and Uranus is in Aries. And both of these are square Pluto in Capricorn. This generates tension. We can see the effects of this tension in the violent turmoil happening in the world, not only in all the fighting and quarreling, but in seismic and volcanic activity. If you have any planets at or near 16 degrees Aries, Cancer, Libra, and/or Capricorn you will feel this tension and may have a hard time controlling your temper.

The new moon seen in the UK and EU is in the 11th house showing changes coming in parliamentary activities. Because the new moon is both trine to Neptune and opposite Pluto, with Pluto involved in a T-square with Mars and Uranus, activities will be both beneficial and difficult. Difficulties appear to be related to diplomatic and international affairs as well as to commerce. There also appears to be dangers of car, rail, and/or air crashes this month. If traveling in the UK or Europe this month, be careful.

The new moon seen in Washington DC is in the 2nd house shows much activity developing in financial and stock market affairs. It is both good and bad. On the one hand, the trine to Neptune shows great gains possible. But, on the other hand, the opposition to Pluto square Mars and Uranus shows dangers of loss. Uranus is in Aries opposite Mars in Libra. Aries is in the NY Stock Exchange 10th house. This makes the market conditions potentially volatile.
In the new moon chart in DC we find Uranus in the 11th house with Mars in the 5th. It speaks of difficulties, angry arguments, and unexpected developments in Congress with the danger of an accident or disgrace to one of it members.
Neptune is in the 10th house in this chart. Neptune is square to Venus in the 12th house, Venus being in a critical degree. This brings a degree of disgrace to the Potus in connection with a woman, or women, not necessarily his wife, but someone who talks behind his back; Venus is in the 12th house-of-secret-enemies. We find Neptune in mutual reception with Uranus connecting him with someone in the Congress. There appears no way around trouble, the mutual reception notwithstanding, because mutual reception Neptune is in opposition with Mars and is square Pluto. There is a mess brewing.
Mercury is retrograde in the 1st house. Mercury also rules the 1st house in this chart. This means that the people are in a indecisive mood,  but this mood will change, as Mercury is soon to turn direct.

The signs for the year, month, day and hour of the new moon seen in DC are Wood Horse, Metal Sheep, Earth Snake, and Fire Tiger, respectively. This is the month of Metal Sheep. It is somewhat aggressive in tone as it clashes with the year sign, Wood Horse.
The element count is 7 Fires, 6 Earths, 2 Metals, 00 Water, and 3 Woods. The energy is very hot and dry. The chart wants to produce Metal, meaning it strives to get to the cutting edge. This has ominous meanings for military activity, but very good meanings for the arts and fashion.
The predominance of Fire makes this month extremely active. It could bring intense heat and fires. So much Fire and Earth could also bring a spike in volcanic activity. In the human sphere it could bring out anger and anxiety. In areas of the world in military conflict this will be an extremely hot and ugly month.
The yin/yang balance in this chart is 7 yin and 8 yang. This is very good, as yin and yang are almost perfectly balanced and support both beginning and ending. The energy of the month supports productivity.

The new moon reduced to an I Ching hexagram gives us hexagram 20, line 4. Hexagram 20 is called Observation, or waiting, and implies trust. It has the symbol of abundant flowers in full bloom, a sign of prosperity. But because hexagram 20 is not good for summer, the good indication is modified.
The advice given by line 4 is to take a broadened outlook, to be open minded, and consider what is of universal benefit.

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Summer solstice in western and Chinese astrology

Summer solstice, the Sun's ingress into the sign Cancer, came on June 21 at 11:52 AM GMD. This brings the Sun into a grand cross with Mars, Pluto and Uranus in Libra, Capricorn, and Aries, respectively. The grand cross will register through later June and earlier July, but its effects will continue to be felt through the summer; it means increased tension in the world. It could bring violent weather and seismic activity as well as more political turmoil. The world is discontent.

In this chart we see the Moon at 21 degrees Aries, separating from conjunction with Uranus and applying to square with Jupiter. This says that changes coming up will be sudden, and wasteful.

The Sun's first aspect is a trine to Neptune. This is like sugar coating on the poison shown by the grand cross in formation. Considering the surprises shown by the Moon's conjunction with Uranus, this says that we may be in the dark, or unprepared for what may be coming.

Mercury is retrograde. This says that we can expect changes of mind and reversals of decisions that may work both favorably and unfavorably, depending on circumstances, and that may contribute to the trend of wastefulness shown by the Moon's square with Jupiter.

The solstice chart in the UK, and the EU has the Sun in the 10th house with Mars in the 2nd, Pluto in the 4th, and Uranus and the Moon in the 8th. This adversely affects economic conditions and, with Mercury retrograde in the 10th house, shows difficulties in the Government, and disgrace to public officials, with dangers of a coming defeat of the current Government. Mars afflicted in the 2nd house warns of trouble coming up. It shows possible losses in the stock market, great expenditures, and waste of public money.

The solstice chart in Washington DC has the Moon and Uranus in the 10th house showing sudden developments in the Government. Uranus rules the 8th house. It suggest an unexpected death in the Government, or upper circle. The Moon conjunct Uranus and square Jupiter show the Government unpopular. It also shows scandals in Government circles, and an eminent woman suffering some degree of disgrace.
Jupiter, whether afflicted or not, in the 1st house protects the people against whatever untoward conditions there may be. So, this is probably a fairly good time for the people in general in the sense of business, health, and work. Still, Mars in the 4th house opposite Uranus in the 10th shows sharp political fighting coming up.

In Chinese astrology, the signs for the year, month, day, and hour of the solstice are Wood Horse, Metal Horse, Water Pig, and Wood Rabbit, respectively. This is a fairly dynamic configuration. There are 4 Woods, 3 Fires, 2 Earths, 1 Metal, and 2 Waters. The predominance of Wood and Fire make it very active. The energy of this period up to Chinese fall season, beginning August 8, is very lively. The yin-yang count shows 7 yins to 4 yangs. The energy trends to yin, meaning it it is easier to finish what has been begun than start something new. The vital element of this chart is Earth, meaning it is best to bring everything into balance and harmony. Be practical.

Reduced to an I Ching hexagram the solstice gives us hexagram 56, line 3. Hexagram 56 is The Traveler. It is lucky for people born in the year, month, day, or hour of the Monkey. It is good for career development, and tells of riches coming. The Traveler, however, symbolizes flourishing followed by withering. It signifies impermanence.
Line 3 warns not to get into arguments unless you want to be rejected by the person, or the people you depend on. The advice is to adapt your self to your circumstances. If you are offensive and follow the wrong course you will suffer bad consequences. This holds true for individuals as well as for Governments.

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Balance in Chinese astrology and fengshui

Dynamic balance is the key to good health and good fortune. When balance is broken for a long time illness and bad luck come. When illness develops we can correct the imbalance, and return to normal health.

There are two systems in Chinese astrology that address this question directly: Bazi, and 9 Star. In Bazi (ba tze) we have a calculation that gives us what is called the vital element. The vital element is what your life depends on. Your vital element determines the best orientation for your bed, and how you sit; it also gives you the best colors to wear for supporting your health; and it describes your best climate and season. Knowing how to work with your vital element can help you get over illnesses and extend your life.

In Chinese astrology, whenever your vital element comes up in long cyclical progressions, as well as in years, months, and seasons, your life goes better. When it is absent, and you start to have troubles, the situation can be mitigated by adjusting your environmental conditions, and by using the right colors.

Unfortunately, the vital element calculation is very involved, and cannot be made without undertaking a detailed study of this difficult system. Learning how to calculate the vital element is one of the most important steps in studying the authentic old tradition of fengshui. Not many people grasp it correctly.

We find a fair alternative in the 9 Star system. The 9 Star system, while much simpler than Bazi, is good, and it is important in fengshui. While 9 Star doesn't reveal your vital element, it gives what is called your balancing element. This, by the way, is not widely known; it is a secret method. 9 Star works with the system of trigrams, seen above. Your balancing element works to bring your innate energy into harmonious balance; it supports your life and fortunes. The balancing element can be used to determine a good orientation for your bed, and it can give you a very good color to use.

The 9 Star system is very ancient. It is the basis of the Lo Shu compass system, an important part of the traditional Chinese fengshui compass.

The system of balancing elements, based on the 9 Star system, is fairly easy to grasp. To find your balancing element you have, first, to find your birth star number. The birth star numbers repeat cyclically every 9 years. According to Chinese method the 9 Star cycle is opposite for males and females. Given below is the basic cycle from 1990 to 1999. To find your birth star either subtract or add 9 or multiples of 9 from or to the years given, keeping in mind that the 9 Star year begins always at the beginning of Chinese spring season which almost always is February 4. So, if you were born between January 1 and February 3, you have to calculate from 1 year earlier. For example, if you were born February 1, 1970, you would calculate your birth star number from 1969. The years with their numbers for males and females are:

1990 for males is 1; for females is 5
1991 for males is 9; for females is 6
1992 for males is 8; for females is 7
1993 for males is 7; for females is 8
1994 for males is 6; for females is 9
1995 for males is 5; for females is 1
1996 for males is 4; for females is 2
1997 for males is 3; for females is 3
1998 for males is 2; for females is 4

Supposing you are a male born in 1973. 1973 + 18 = 1991. 1991 for a male is 9.
Supposing you are a female born in 1973. 1973 + 18 - 1991. 1991 for a female is 6.

The star numbers with their elements are as follows.
1 is Water.
2 is Earth.
3 is Wood.
4 is Wood,
5 is Earth.
6 is Metal.
7 is Metal.
8 is Earth.
9 is Fire.

The balancing elements for the 9 star numbers with their directions in space and colors are as follows.

The balancing element for 1 Water is 9 Fire. Its direction is South, and its color is purple.
The balancing element for 2 Earth is 6 Metal. Its direction is Northwest, and its color is white.
The balancing element for 3 Wood is 4 Wood. Its direction is Southeast, and its color is dark green.
The balancing element for 4 Wood is 3 Wood. It's direction is East, and its color is light green.
The balancing element for 5 Earth is 6 Metal for women and 7 Metal for men. The direction and color for 6 Metal is Northwest and white. The direction and color for 7 Metal is red.
The balancing element for 6 Metal is 2 Earth. Its direction is Southwest, and its color is black.
The balancing element for 7 Metal is 8 Earth. Its direction is Northeast, and its color is white.
The balancing element for 8 Earth is 7 Metal. Its direction is west, and its color is red.
The balancing element for 9 Fire is 1 Water. It's direction is North, and its color is white.

Supposing your balancing element is 3 Wood, and you are finding this to be a stressful period. You would then consider aligning your bed so your head points to the east, and you would consider using light green as a color to help balance your energy. Orientation in fengshui is always figured by what your head points toward when lying down in bed, and what is to your back when sitting in a chair. If your balancing element was 3 Wood, the best way to sit would be with your back to the East.

These are just very basic considerations in fengshui. Of course, if the space doesn't permit using these indications, and if you are a couple sleeping in the same bed, energetic bridges can be made. Fengshui as part of the Chinese astrological systems is complex.

Fengshui is the spacial projection of Chinese astrology. Imbalances that show up in your Chinese astrological chart can be adjusted and mitigated in your space. Traditionally these two always go hand in hand. To do fengshui correctly you have to know how to do Chinese astrology. This is the tradition.

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The June 13 full moon in western and Chinese astrology

The full moon came on June 13 at 00:13 AM EDT. It was at 22 degrees Sagittarius in the 10th house at Washington DC signifying changes in Government policies. The Moon is in mutual reception with her dispositor, Jupiter, in the 5th house, pointing to diplomatic affairs. We see the President changing his mind with respect to the developing conflict in Iraq, for example.

At the full moon, we also see a T-Square involving Mars, Pluto, and Uranus in the 8th, 11th, and 2nd houses, respectively, pointing to the on-going difficult financial issues in this country affecting business and banking. The full moon may bring a minor temporary correction to real estate prices.

We also see Venus exactly opposite Saturn, Venus in the 3rd house and Saturn in the 9th, in a sense obstructing international commerce, communications, and trade, and pointing to some blackout of news. This aspect also does not favor travel.

The planets in the chart of the full moon are widely scattered. This diffuses energy, and makes it difficult to focus on any one area other than those hinted above.

In Chinese astrology, the signs for the year, month, day, and hour of the new moon are Wood Horse, Metal Horse, Wood Rabbit, and Fire Rat, respectively. The balance of elements is 4 Fires, 2 Earths, 1 Metal, 1 Water, and 3 Woods. It is extremely active, and not concentrated; the energy expands. The yin-yang balance is 7 yin and 3 yang. Nothing innovative is favored at this time, but it favors ending what was already begun, and releasing what is useless.

Boiled down to a I Ching hexagram, it gives us hexagram 49, line 3. Hexagram 49 is Revolution. It favors the signs Tiger and Rabbit. It suggests a break coming after a period of bad luck. The road is opening. It is favorable to reform the old. If you persevere, disappointment will disappear.
Unfortunately this hexagram is not good for summer, so the energy is not strong enough, and you will have to exert yourself. If you have bad habits, attempts to change them may lead to frustration. Consider carefully what changes you want to make.
Line 3 says starting now is bad luck. You need to think it over and over. When talk has gone around three times, you may start and people will believe you. Changes cannot happen unless others agree with you. Work for the support of others first.

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A Chinese astrological portrait of Maya Angelou

Maya Angelou was born on April 4, 1928 at 2:10 PM. The Chinese astrological signatures of the year, month, day, and hour of her birth are Earth Dragon, Wood Rabbit, Wood Dog, and Metal Sheep, respectively. Her birth stars are 6 Metal, 2 Earth, and 9 Fire. This, in a nutshell, shows a proud, independent, rather eccentric, and highly complex personality.

The chart has a predominance of Wood element, which expressed itself in Maya Angelou's writing, Wood being the element of writers, musicians, and painters. She had 4 yin Wood, and 1 yang Wood, showing that she was full of plans and designs, and forever coming up with new ideas.

Born in a yang year, on a yang day, but with a yin/yang balance of 4 yangs to 10 yins, we can see how complex Maya Angelou was, and how she was the type to take up an already existing cause and fly with it. She is a powerful voice for the intellectual and artistic movement that was already flourishing at the time of her birth.

Maya Angelou's chart style is characterized by what is called the competitive deity. Competitive deity says that she started out at a disadvantage, receiving less than she deserved, but that through her self-confidence, extroversion, independence, pride, individualism, and sheer will power she cut out an independent career for herself. She was adventurous, and hated all kinds of constraints.

The chart has a configuration called knife blade. What this means is that she had a pronounced eccentric streak in her, and could become very impatient and irritable. She obviously had a lot of experience from which she learned, as seen from the richness of her wisdom. The knife blade shows up in the area of her career. It means that she was totally unique, and would react against any negative criticism coming against her from anyone; she was totally self-assertive. Knife blade came out in the cyclic period starting at age 17 and running to her mid 30s. It was in this time that she cut through and made herself known. It appears in her later teens that she went through a very challenging time; she even changed her name.

The element balance in her chart is 6 Wood, 2 Fire, 4 Earth, 2 Metal, and 1 Water. The predominance of Wood and Fire show her to have been extremely lively, a romantic soul, loving to shine out.
Because of the particular balance of elements in this chart, we also find that Metal was her vital element. Metal being vital, we also see that Maya Angelou loved to be challenged. She loved to stand up and confront the world with her vision. Being born on a day of Wood element, with Wood predominant, she was a romantic thinker, and a visionary.

Metal element came up very strongly in Maya Angelou's life in her 40s, and 50s. This shows that she was at the peak of her vitality in those years. Metal began to wane in her 60s and 70s. Her 50s was a pivotal cycle in her life. There was a lot of Metal and Fire in it. She had to have made some bold moves in those years. But, even if Metal was waning past 60, there was a large cycle, starting at age 52 and running through the rest of her life, in which there was sufficient Metal to keep her vitally active to the end, and which contributed to her continuing rise to fame. It also appears that she was very generous toward others especially in her later years. It also appears that she became quite wealthy.

Metal in Maya Angelou's chart also represents marriage. Marriage, in Chinese astrology, doesn't necessarily mean a formal, legal affair, but it does mean a union of souls, as in love. There being two Metals in the natal chart, it is certain that there were at least two significant others. The period of 30 to 40 shows a time of many pleasures. Also, because Metal grew very strong from age 40 and remained present through to the end of her life, it is probable that there were a number of loves through all these years, the ten year cycle of 60 to 70 being of particular interest, as the star of romance showed up then. Love, to say the least, was vital to Maya Angelou's life and creative work.

Water was the weakest element of Maya Angelou's chart. The cycle of 80 to 90 had Fire and Earth. Water is killed by Earth, and is exhausted by Fire. The three shars, or killing signs, in Maya Angelou's chart were Snake, Horse, and Sheep. Snake year was 2013, Horse year is 2014. This year, the year of Wood Horse, generated too much Fire for her. Fire kills Metal. So, this year Maya Angelou's vital element gave out, and she passed away. Horse also signifies the life stage of death for Maya Angelou. Horse years had have always been low ebb for her. Had she held out beyond this year, she could have lived to 90, 91. Age 90 brings up total Fire; it would have ended her life. Had she wanted to prolong her life, following the rules of fengshui, she would at least have to have moved to a cool, dry climate where she would live quietly for some time, something she would probably not have cared to do except she could have written some more works.

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The new moon in Gemini as seen in western and Chinese astrology

The new moon comes on May 28 at 7:41 PM GMD. It is at 7 degrees Gemini in conjunction with the star Aldebaran, denoting great energy, gains through business, and high material honors, but danger of quarrels that could undo what good this may bring. The new moon is in the 6th lunar mansion, called Athaia, good for establishing all kinds of foundations. Despite whatever untoward indications there are Athaia offers protection.

The dispositor of the new moon, Mercury, is at 29 degrees Gemini giving a very impatient air to the configuration; he is at the end of his tether at 29 degrees. Mercury is also exactly sextile Venus at 29 degrees Aries saying "carpe diem." Don't hesitate where there is opportunity. Opportunities will be fleeting.

The new moon is trine Mars at 9 degrees Libra adding positive force and encouraging us to put our best foot forward and enter new territory, start new enterprises, accept challenges, take a stand, have the courage of our convictions, accepting aid from allies, and taking no chances that lead to danger. This aspect ushers in a period of personal success for you if you have any significant planet at or near 7 degrees Gemini, Leo, Libra, Aquarius, or Aries.

The new moon is exactly square Neptune at 7 degrees Pisces, warning of deceptions, confusions, fraud, and losses through unscrupulous persons or agencies.

Looking at the new moon in the UK and in the EU we see it in the 7th house. Mars is in the 10th, and Neptune is in the 3rd. Mars is involved in a T-square with Pluto and Uranus adding tension. What this says is that international relations in the UK and EU are at a new juncture. There is considerable tension in it. Mars in the 10th house is an evil position. Opposite Uranus in the 5th house, it shows diplomatic tensions. Square Pluto in the 2nd house, it concerns financial complications and losses. Trine the new moon, it encourages positive, constructive action.

Looking at the new moon in the US we see it in the 9th house trine Mars in the 1st and square Neptune in the 6th. This is challenging for international trade relations. Mars in the 1st house is square Pluto in the 4th and opposite Uranus in the 7th suggesting turmoil among the people and troubled international relations. Mars in the 1st house warns of strikes, angry demonstrations, fires, and a spike in crime. People will tend to be aggressive. Mercury is in the 10th house conjunct the mid-heaven, both being at 29 degrees Gemini exactly square the Ascendant at 29 degrees Virgo denoting disgrace to public officials and scandals in high places. Mercury rules the 10th house; it involves the President whose mood will be understandably irritable. Jupiter in the 10th house, however, protects him.

In Chinese astrology, this is the month of Metal Horse. The year is Wood Horse. Horse clashes with Horse, and Metal clashes with Wood. This month is one of high energy with sharply clashing energies. The first day of the month is Metal Rat. Metal Rat is at maximum clash with Metal Horse and Wood Horse. It points to violent events in the world.

The energy of Metal Horse in Wood Horse year encourages great activity. Much like the indications of Mars, it warns not to take chances leading to danger, but encourages taking positive action. Horse favors Tiger, Dog, and Sheep. It gets along with Rabbit, Dragon, and Snake, and it challenges Rat, Ox, Horse, Monkey, Rooster, and Pig. Where there are challenges there are opportunities.

Reduced to an I Ching hexagram, the new moon at Washington DC gives us hexagram 52, line 2. Hexagram 51 is Thunder. It is a good hexagram, especially for summer season, which we are already in, according to the Chinese calendar. Thunder is an image of shock and movement. Line 2 tells us that new ideas will bring new conditions if we act. It also says that evil is at hand, and that while there may be losses you will later regain what was lost.

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Raphael is available for personal consultations in Chinese and western astrology. To find out more visit www.raphaelsimons.com or www.trs-fengshui.com. You can also call Raphael at 212-502-0775 to set up an appointment.

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

The 4/29/14 solar eclipse as seen in Chinese astrology

The solar eclipse on April 29 at 8 degrees Taurus comes at a time of sharp cosmic tension due to a grand cardinal cross involving the planets Uranus, Jupiter, Mars and Pluto in Aries, Cancer, Libra and Capricorn, respectively. The eclipse is visible over Antarctica, Indonesia and Australia. It presages crises with forced changes in the world over the coming months; also increasing seismic activity and storms. This eclipse presages trouble in business and trade, and destruction to corn and other food crops as well. There is growing tension between west and east. Western sanctions against Russia would be a very bad sign if they happened.

As seen in Chinese astrology we are in the year of Wood Horse; and the eclipse, being a new moon, marks the month of Earth Snake. Earth Snake, in itself, is a violent combination. The combination is called Knife Blade. In the earth it indicates violent events like earthquakes and storms. In the human world it indicates bad-tempered, arrogant people being angry and reactive. In the political and business spheres we will see insane behavior increasing over the coming months.

Earth Snake and Wood Horse combine to generate strong Earth and Fire. It is hot and dry. We will see great heat developing the coming months that will cause disastrous storms especially in the Indian ocean and western Pacific.

Looking at this from another angle, Earth Snake is a combination that produces Wood. And Wood Horse is a combination that produces Metal. Metal kills Wood. The sign of the year clashes with the sign of the month. This clash forces change. The Earth in Earth Snake also combines with the Horse of the year to produce opportunities for prosperity through all this discord. This means that this is a time for aggressive opportunists. Crisis brings opportunity. The force generated by this eclipse is very dynamic and should be used intelligently.

To see how this eclipse moon interacts with you personally you want to have your own western and/or Chinese astrological chart drawn up and read. But, generally speaking, Earth Snake interacts most favorably with Ox and Rooster, more or less favorably with Rabbit, Dragon, Horse, Sheep, and Dog, and it clashes with Rat, Tiger, Monkey and Pig, and, because Earth Snake is a knife blade combination, it clashes with Snake. Knife blade means no tolerance. Be careful of getting into fights.

The year, month, day and hour of the eclipse, according to the Chinese calendar, when reduced to an I Ching hexagram gives us hexagram 21, line 6. Hexagram 21 is called Biting Through. It is am omen of disaster. It advises making sacrifices to get rid of evil spirits and bad influences. In other words, it means let go of bad attitudes and behaviors now. Worry will dissipate; happiness will come. The hexagram also speaks of criminals thrown in jail.
The 6th line of this hexagram warns of the danger of being deaf to counsel. It gives the image of someone's neck being locked in an instrument of torture and unable to hear. It means bad luck for the heedless and arrogant. Incorrigibility brings bad luck.

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Raphael is available for personal consultations in western and Chinese astrology and in feng shui. To find out more visit www.raphaelsimons.com and www.trs-fengshui.com.

Raphael's book Feng Shui Step by Step is available in a reprinted edition at Amazon and at www.createspace.com/3472024.

The spring quarter as seen in astrology

Today, April, 1, 2014 an 8.2 earthquake hit Chile. We find the Sun coming to exact conjunction Uranus at 12 degrees Aries. That conjunction will be exact at 3:09 AM on April 2. The conjunction of Sun and Uranus is particularly violent, as it puts the Part of Catastrophe (Asc. + Uranus - Sun) on the Ascendant everywhere in the world. What this means is that early April brings violent events, not only earthquakes but dangers of accidents and so on. This phenomenon is part of a development that leads up to the cardinal grand cross in the third week of April. The grand cross is at 13 degrees of Aries, Cancer, Libra and Capricorn involving Uranus, Jupiter, Mars and Pluto, respectively. 13 degrees of cardinal signs is a critical degree. It means a crisis in the world. Being cardinal, it also means out front action. As noted in an earlier article, in the political sphere, this does involve Russia, Putin, NATO, and Ukraine. The Chinese astrological predictions made for this year also pointed out violence in Ukraine and the east in general.

During the period of the grand cross we have two eclipses, a lunar and a solar eclipse. The lunar eclipse is the more important. The lunar eclipse, on April 15, is fully visible over the Pacific Ocean; most of North America, especially the west coast; Central America; and the west coast of South America. This focuses on the center and eastern side of the Ring of Fire. We may anticipate earth quakes and volcanic activity to develop up to and beyond this lunar eclipse.
The path of the solar eclipse, of April 29, travels from South Africa, through the southern Indian Ocean, and Antarctica to the east coast of Australia. It is partially visible in Indonesia and in all of Australia. Indonesia is prone to seismic and volcanic activity.

The two eclipses occuring during the cardinal grand cross carry its tensions in the world theater for several months. In other words, the tensions building up in the world in April will take a long time to resolve in the collective sphere.

Looking at the vernal equinox chart of March 20, we see the grand cross just beginning to form. At the vernal equinox it is a fairly tight T-square involving Uranus, Jupiter and Pluto. So, the tensions felt worldwide were already in formation. Other interesting aspects in the vernal equinox chart include Mercury in conjunction with Neptune, bringing no small degree of confusion into the world. Lots of misinformation has been floating about, for example, the mysterious disappearance of the airplane, not to mention all the reports around the situation in the Ukraine. Another noteworthy aspect in the vernal equinox chart is the Moon square to Venus and in conjunction with Saturn in Scorpio. It shows unfavorable, secretive and complex diplomatic activities. 13 degrees cardinal is the key degree to note in the matter of Russia and NATO. At the vernal equinox Pluto was at 13 degrees Capricorn. When Pluto arrives at 14 degrees Capricorn we need to watch what develops in Berlin and in Rome. Italy is unstable.

Looking at the new moon chart of March 30 we see the new moon in conjunction with Uranus telling us to be aware of the dangers of sudden violence. In the chart made for Washington DC this conjunction of Moon, Sun and Uranus is in the 9th house in Aries. This may point to an air crash, violent storms, and increased seismic activity, especially when the Moon is in Taurus. The Moon is in Taurus on April 1, 2, and 3.

The lunar eclipse on April 15 is at 25 degrees Libra. A lunar eclipse in the 3rd decanate of Libra is traditionally considered to signal the death of a renowned man; we will wait to find out who that is. The eclipse chart also shows Mercury involved in the grand cross of Uranus, Jupiter, Mars and Pluto. Mercury is in conjunction with Uranus. The most positive side of this is that it encourages brilliant break through thinking. On the other hand, it tells of critical arguing and fighting. Whichever way you slice it, the world is in a crisis, and this eclipse is showing it up. The effects of the lunar eclipse will last three months, in other words, into the summer.

Looking further out at the new moon of May 28 we see the planetary configuration becoming diffused. The tension is beginning to let up. But, we see, in the Washington DC chart 29 degrees Virgo rising, Mercury at 29 degrees Gemini square the Ascendant, and Venus at 29 degrees Aries. 29 degrees any sign is a weeping matter and it says that someone, or everyone is at the end of their patience. Mercury rules the chart, and the 10th house of the chart, and is in the 10th house. The people in great number are fed up with the President, and the President is at the end of his tether. The incumbent party is also at the end of its tether. Everybody is at wits end. Please avoid unnecessary arguments. This is confirmed by Mars in the 1st house square Pluto and opposite Uranus. Mars is trine the new moon. Mars afflicted, in the first house says that the people are angry and aggressive. The new moon of May 28 is in the 9th house pointing to international trade and diplomatic relations.

All in all, the world looks tumultuous this spring; the world is in crisis. The earth is also turbulent. We can expect more earth quakes and volcanic activity.

For people whose natal charts have planets at 12, 13, and 14 degrees of Aries, Cancer, Libra, and/or Capricorn, most especially 13 degrees, April will be challenging and transformative. Break off what cannot work, and embrace what can and will.

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Raphael is available for private consultations. For information visit
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www.trs-fengshui.com, or call 212-502-0775.

Crimea annexation

On March 21 Russia annexed Crimea. Looking at an astrological chart for the event we find that the Moon is void of course. What this means is that this event in itself leads to nothing to worry about. It is a gesture in an unfolding drama involving Russian relations with the west and the far east. The situation is far more complex than this.

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/europe/Putin-signs-Crimea-annexation-law-as-Russian-investors-take-fright/articleshow/32439784.cms

The involvement of NATO in the developing crisis in Ukraine and Russia

We see in the chart of NATO above that the cardinal grand cross forming at 13 degrees Aries, Cancer, Libra and Capricorn directly aspects NATO's Neptune in the 12th house. Mars will be in conjunction with NATO's Neptune, and Uranus will in opposition with it, involving NATO in secret activity of a violent nature. How much of this will be made known is probably very little.

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Raphael is available for private consultations. For more information visit www.raphaelsimons.com or call 212-502-0775.