The Ecliptic Signs as Personality Symbols: II
Interpreting the twelve signs requires a little vocabulary. First there is the element of each sign, fire, earth, air, and water, and each sign’s quadriplicity, cardinal, fixed, or mutable. The elements extend back to Empedocles, a pre-Socratic philosopher who thought that all matter was a conglomeration of these four elements. The four humors of the Middle Ages (blood, phlegm, black bile and yellow bile) are a biological application of this fundamentally abstract division of energy or nature. The quadriplicities, so called because four signs fall into each category, are a development of the Middle Ages as well.
No two zodiac signs have the same element and same quadriplicity, such that each of the twelve signs is completely unique in that respect. However, signs with the same element or same quadriplicity have relevant similarities. Fire, taken metaphorically, represents energy or human life force. Therefore, each of the fire signs has a unique, catching sparkle and physicality. Earth represents practicality and territorial relationship, such that each of the air signs is fundamentally dependable and reliant in nature, and sees the world in terms of property or materialism. Air represents the social environment and communication, such that each of the air signs is socially effervescent and communicative. And water represents the emotions as an internal disposition to be emotionally sensitive, even though these sensitive emotions are not always displayed or expressed. Cardinal signs, so called because they start each quadrant of the ecliptic, are imbued with initiative and decisiveness. Fixed signs are stubborn and fundamentally intense in their expression. And mutable signs, so called because they are variable and adaptable characters, terminate the seasons or a quadrant of the ecliptic.
A discussion of each zodiacal sign as symbol requires both an assessment of the imagery associated with each, as well as a discussion of the element and quadriplicity that each sign manifests. Taken together, we have a zodiac – a circle of animals – which functions as a system of symbols that can be used to interpret the indications of the planets in each of the signs. For each sign, two such symbols will be considered: first I will discuss the exoteric or well-known, outward symbol which comes from the Latin zodiac. These symbols are those with which the Western native is probably most familiar, and I will explain how this outward symbol relates to the element and quadriplicity of each sign. Second, to give a broader perspective, I will discuss the symbols associated with the Christian New Testament. Each of the gospels, according to catholic tradition, correlates with a face of the seraphim from Ezekiel chapter 1: a lion with Mark, a human face with Matthew, an ox for Luke, and an eagle or phoenix for John. These faces embody the symbolism of the Babylonian zodiac, presumably incorporated by the Semites during an involvement with Babylonian culture. Each face of the seraphim thus represents a particular element, and accordingly, each gospel contains scenes which embody three of the zodiac signs that bear that particular element. To my knowledge, any explicit relationship between astrology and New Testament Christianity has never been attempted, and this endeavor is my humble contribution to both astrology and Christianity.
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Pisces as Christian
I begin with the end of winter, the space of the ecliptic which measures from 330 to 359 degrees, if 360/0 degrees is considered due East. Pisces is a mutable water sign, a sign which feels emotions intensely and which is adaptable to different situations and circumstances. Symbolically, this portion of the ecliptic is represented by the fish – not one fish, but two. If water represents the emotions, the fishes are submerged in water, in touch with their own feelings and empathetic and sympathetic with the emotions of others. The words ‘empathetic’ and ‘sympathetic’ mean literally ‘suffering in’ and ‘suffering with’ respectively, and those individuals with many planets in this area of the ecliptic suffer in and with those around them, tapping into the emotions of others whether they are so inclined or not. Therefore, Piscean natives tend to use their emotions to attribute value, and have a tendency to wax idealistic and humanitarian in their broader outlook on the world. Regarding themselves, Pisces natives can be no less idealistic – and this frequently manifests as perfectionism. One of the fishes is real, adaptable and natural, gazing at a reflection or anti-fish, a perfect idealized self which is rigid and unyielding. Under the pressure of the perfect anti-fish, Piscean natives may struggle with standards, practical imprisonment, excess, and emotional escapism through sex, drugs, or alcohol. As with all mutable signs, the struggle with duality can be overcome once the two outlooks – the practical and the ideal – can be reconciled in a healthy way. Art and music, or science and mathematics, often figure largely as careers for natives whose mental and emotional capacities crave the expressive, as well as the ideal and perfect.
But early in the morning [Jesus] arrived again in the temple area, and all the people started coming to him, and he sat down and taught them. Then the scribes and the Pharisees brought a woman who had been caught in adultery and made her stand in the middle. They said unto him, “Teacher, this woman was caught in the very act of committing adultery. Now in the law, Moses commanded us to stone such women. So what do you say?” They said this to test him, so that they could have some charge to bring against him, he straightened up and said unto them, “Let the one among you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.” Again he bent down and wrote on the ground. And in response, they went away one by one, beginning with the elders. So he was left alone with the woman before him. Then Jesus straightened up and said to her, “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?” She replied, “No one sir.” Then Jesus said, “Neither do I condemn you. Go, and from now on do not sin any more.” John 8:2-11
Jesus offers to the woman taken in adultery a path of escape – not only from her captors, but also from sin itself. However, as in many of Jesus’s miracles and services, he performs the temporal act first, in order to illustrate the mystical, spiritual salvation, which we cannot readily see. In this instance, the woman suffers underneath the standard of Mosaic Law, and the Semitic tribes who brazenly enforce that law. This is analogous to the Piscean native’s struggle with the ideal, and the self-defeat which comes from setting a standard which it is impossible to meet. In the face of this conflict, the Piscean native turns to crimes of passion – in this case, wanton sex. Jesus, in His casual and loving manner, dissolves the ideal which creates desperate behavior and offers to the Pisces native something new. Rather than Mosaic Law – or an impossible standard which the Ego sets for itself – Jesus offers salvation – a higher law which empowers the native. Jesus has the power to change the Law, just as the Pisces native, despite his or her natural inclination, has the power to set for him or herself an ideal which is reachable, empathetic, and incorporates all of his or her adaptable, mutable aspects. Just as with the woman taken in adultery, beaten down by the standards which the authorities of the world establish, it is within the Piscean native’s power to turn to a kinder Master, and take strength from a new ideal which is made in a better, more comforting image.
Aries as Christian
Aries is the section of the ecliptic from 0-29 degrees, if 360/0 is due East. The cardinal fire sign of the zodiac, Aries natives tend to be energetic, extroverted, decisive, and passionate. This section of the zodiac represents boundless energy, and is indicated by the lengthening days and the growth and rite of Spring. ‘The Rite of Spring’, a frenetic and unusual musical piece by Igor Stravinsky, induced riots in the audience at its first presentation in Paris in the early Twentieth Century. Such is the intrepid, inspirational energy of the Aries native – bringing with him or her a volatile energy which is not only for him or herself, but which enlivens others around him or her. As such, a chief problem for this sign which is often talkative and energetic is self-control. Aries natives frequently have so much energy that they know not what to do with their desires and emotions, and without a project – or several projects – to occupy their time and energy, their passion will spill over into relationships and the workplace, potentially causing disruptions and problems. This is all the more problematic, because Aries natives can be somewhat self-absorbed, consumed by their own emotions, and may not notice the damage they can cause others with their volatility. That said, when the Aries native sets his or her mind to a project, their focus on a goal has a gathering and unifying effect on the personality, and there is not a task or project which lies beyond the reach of an Aries native who has collected him- or herself and set upon a particular aim. The intrepid and idealistic nature of this sign makes natives fit for leadership, if he or she can first master him- or herself.
When [Jesus] got out of the boat, at once a man from the tombs who had an unclean spirit met him. The man had been dwelling among the tombs, and no one could restrain him any longer, even with a chain. In fact, he had frequently been bound with shackles and chains, but the chains had been pulled apart by him and the shackles smashed, and no one was strong enough to subdue him. Night and day among the tombs and on the hillsides he was always crying out and bruising himself with stones. Catching sight of Jesus from a distance, he ran up and prostrated himself before him, crying out in a loud voice, “What have you to do with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I adjure you by God, do not torment me!” (He had been saying to him, “Unclean spirit, come out of the man!”) He asked him, “What is your name?” He replied, “Legion is my name. There are many of us.” And he pleaded earnestly with him not to drive them away from that territory. Now a large herd of swine was feeding there on the hillside. And they pleaded with him, “Send us into the swine. Let us enter them.” And he let them, and the unclean spirits came out and entered the swine. The herd of about two thousand rushed down a steep bank into the sea, where they were drowned. … Then the man went off and began to proclaim in the Decapolis what Jesus had done for him; and all were amazed. Mark 5:2-13,20
The spirits that rocked the body and mind of the man possessed were fantastically powerful, and he could not be constrained. Nevertheless, even in this bitter and crazed state, the possessing demons recognized the power of Jesus, and bowed to him. Through submitting to Jesus’s power, the legion of spirits was cast out and the man restored to himself. The struggle for self-control is real, and the passion which rocked the man was turned to praising Jesus and promulgating his name. Given direction, the man could put his boundless energy to good, positive use, and Aries natives are the same. The physicality and enthusiasm which marks this sign can be a blessing or a curse, a liberating and leading factor or a burden which harms loved ones. The struggle for self-mastery may be one which is ostensibly beyond our or our neighbor’s power, and the example of turning to a higher power for that self-mastery is one which is instructive for all who struggle with a passionate, volatile nature.
Taurus as Christian
Taurus marks the section of the ecliptic from 30-59 degrees, if 0 degrees is due East and 90 degrees due North. As the sun passes through this time, springtime growth and fecundity is all about: the May flowers appear after the April showers of Aries. Exoterically, this time of year is symbolized by the cow, symbol of fertility and placidity, stubborn yet strong, embodying the fixed quadriplicity and earth element of the ecliptic. Those with planets predominantly in this section of the ecliptic tend to be stubborn and somewhat withdrawn – not necessarily shy, but the kind of person who chews the cud, so to speak, before speaking and acting. A ponderous and reflective personality, Taurus natives often move slowly, preferring comfort and principle over newness and intrepid endeavor. That said, Taurus is a particularly ambitious sign, and knows well where he or she stands among peers and associates. The sign which governs mental territory, the Taurus native guards jealously his or her own mind, and may be secretive, even tenacious in protecting the things which they value. Familiar, even comfortable surroundings are often important to Taurus natives, because territory is pivotal, and managing one’s environment is a way of maintaining a sense of calm and control. That said, a Taurus native can be quite social or inquisitive if people and new things are part of their valued principles, but in such endeavors they are no less stubborn, stalwart, and ambitious. Often enough, the notion of earth as element manifests literally with Taurus natives, as many enjoy gardening or hiking in the outdoors, and attach considerable sentimental value to their material possessions.
In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that the whole world should be enrolled. This was the first enrollment, when Quirinius was governor of Syria. So all went to be enrolled, each to his own town. And Joseph too went up from Galilee from the town of Nazareth to Judea, to the city of David that is called Bethlehem, because he was the house and family of David, to be enrolled with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child. While they were there, the time came for her to have her child, and she gave birth to her firstborn son. She wrapped him in swaddling clothes and laid him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. Luke 2:1-7
The birth of Jesus is one of the most remarkable moments in all scripture, and bears similarity to Taurus natures in several symbolic ways. First, it is about pregnancy and birth, symbolizing the fertility that comes with the time of year when the Sun passes through the Taurus portion of the ecliptic. Materially, the passage of Joseph and Mary to Bethlehem is motivated by practical, financial factors, something which the earth element governs and which reflects the Taurus’s practical nature. And importantly for all earth signs, the relationship to temporal authority and spiritual authority is navigated. A beautiful contrast can be seen between the temporal Caesar who demands record keeping, and the condescension of Jesus Christ, in permitting himself to be born in the most humble circumstances. Importantly, the symbolism of this portion of the ecliptic has much to do with comfort, and Mary and Joseph are able to find comfort in an undesirable, uncomfortable place. This further reflects the mental, internal aspects of Taurus natives, who if they focus, can find comfort within themselves, their principles, or in the higher power, despite their immediate social or material surroundings. In adherence to principle and sentimental comforts lies the Taurus’s inner strength.
Gemini as Christian
Gemini is the name for that portion of the ecliptic which extends from 60-89 degrees, where 90 degrees indicates due North. The mutable air sign of the zodiac, those with many planets in this portion of the ecliptic tend to be adaptable, if a little moody, sociable, if a little manipulative, and rational, if a little cunning. Symbolized exoterically by the Twins, Gemini more than any other sign embodies the nature of duality. The Gemini native’s personality hangs upon two, complementary frameworks, one which is rational and sociable, and the other which is emotional and discreet. Although talkative and sociable, just as much may be learned from what a Gemini native does not say, and they have a capacity to use language to their own ends. That said, more than any other sign do Gemini natives have a grand capacity for kindness, and their ability to look at any situation from a variety of perspectives endows Gemini natives with a delightful cleverness which endears friends and confounds enemies. All the same, this ability to gather information and delineate courses of action may make Gemini natives somewhat indecisive, if they only are waiting to understand exactly what may be the best course of action for themselves and others. While traditionally associated with careers requiring communication, there is much to be said for their ingenuity, and Gemini natives are adept at any task to which they put their mind, for they can adapt to any circumstances or social environment.
When [Jesus] entered Capernaum, a centurion approached him and appealed to him, saying “Lord, my servant is lying at home paralyzed, suffering dreadfully.” He said to him, “I will come and cure him.” The centurion said in reply, “Lord, I am not worthy to have you enter under my roof; only say the word and my servant will be healed. For I too am a person subject to authority, with soldiers subject to me. And I say to one ‘Go’ and he goes; and to another ‘Come here,’ and he comes; and to my slave, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.” When Jesus heard this, he was amazed and said to those following him, “Amen I say unto you, in no one in Israel have I found such faith. If I say to you, many will come from the east and the west, and will recline with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob at the banquet in the kingdom of heaven, but the children of the kingdom will be driven out into outer darkness, where there will be wailing and grinding of teeth.” And Jesus said to the centurion, “You may go; as you have believed, let it be done for you.” And at this very hour his servant was healed. Matthew 8:5-13
This passage symbolizes the nature of Gemini natives in a variety of ways, not least of which is that we see two sides of the Lord Jesus. He has both the beneficent capacity to heal, and the complementary capacity to condemn. So too do Gemini natives have these two sides, but really they are the more unified and bound together than one would initially think. It is not duplicity, but rather a deep understanding that with blessings for some come cursing for others, and fairness and justice demand a distribution of favors and punishments. More literally, we see the compassion of Christ extended not by a showy display of power, but by the delivery of an unseen message – for the centurion understood that a powerful Man’s underlings will do his bidding, even if they are unseen. So too is the Gemini’s management capacity to extend kindnesses beyond what others would presumably think able, because of their ingenuity and versatility. More politically, we see one of the most important extensions of grace to a pagan, a Roman centurion, and the genealogical inheritors of the covenant are condemned. Nevertheless, the centurion approached Christ as an equal, because of their similar social positioning relative to authority. Well can all benefit from Christ’s example, who did not judge between persons based off of status, but determined whether they exercised faith and kindness in their dealings with fellow children of God. Despite apparent cunning, Gemini natives have the capacity to develop a Christ-like kindness and mercy.
Cancer as Christian
Cancer is the name of that portion of the ecliptic which extends from 90-119 degrees, where 90 degree represents due North. Those with emphasized planets in this portion of the ecliptic are emotional, yet emotionally self-contained, sympathetic, yet decisive about their expressions of compassion, rather than volatile or spontaneous. Cancer is the cardinal water sign, marked by a decisiveness and managerial capacity, but also a sensitiveness which they either embrace and cultivate, or shrewdly hide away for fear of being vulnerable. One can see these two ways of coping with emotionality in the symbolic Crab, a creature which lives on the beach – half in water or the emotions, and half on land, relying on practical rationality. Nevertheless, the Crab is a creature of the sea, and contains within itself all the emotional resources Cancer natives can ever need. What is rather fundamental about Cancer natives is how and with whom they choose to expend those resources, becoming nurturing confidantes with those they love, or stingy recluses around those for whom they couldn’t care less. Intensely emotionally sensitive – no matter how detached they may choose to present themselves – Cancer natives have an ability to be acutely aware of the emotions of those around them, and may complement others’ feelings with compassion or manipulating, depending upon their own disposition. As with all the signs, the spiritual gifts which are indicated by planets in this section of the ecliptic double as burdens and gifts, depending entirely upon how the native regards him- or herself, and whether or not he or she turns to higher power and love, or to selfishness.
Now there is in Jerusalem at the Sheep Gate a pool called in Hebrew Bethesda, with five porticoes. In these lay a large number of ill, blind, lame, and crippled. One man was there who had been ill for thirty-eight years. When Jesus saw him lying there and knew that he had been ill for a long time, he said to him, “Do you want to be well?” The sick man answered him, “Sir, I have no one to put me into the pool when the water is stirred up; while I am on my way, someone else gets down there before me.” Jesus said to him, “Rise, take up your mat, and walk.” Immediately the man became well, took up his mat, and walked. John 2:2-9
The mystical nature of the world cannot be understated in this passage. The bubbling waters just out of reach of the very ill man had magical healing properties, and the Gospel author does not qualify those properties. That is to say, we can take the mystical properties of those waters as being real, just as the possession of spirits which occur elsewhere in the New Testament. However here, despite the real blessing of those waters, a greater source of healing is available through Christ. Christ here symbolizes the Cancer native and their healing capacity – Cancer natives can heal others, can comfort those in need and have, like Christ, an ability to identify and even seek out those who suffer. On the other hand, Cancer natives may also find themselves in need of spiritual healing, and at which moments they may be reluctant or unable to bring themselves to the source of healing without further aide. Thirty-eight years is a long time, and it can be supposed that after being unable to bring himself to the water on his own merits, the ill man may have given up hope of being healed. He answered Christ’s question, “Do you want to be well?”, not with an affirmative, but with a sorrowful reason, probably wallowing in his dejection. More fortunate are we today who can call on Christ, and needn’t wait for him to approach and ask us – for he already has.
Leo as Christian
Leo marks the section of the ecliptic ranging from 120-149 degrees, with 90 being due North and 180 being due West. When the Sun is in this area of the ecliptic, it is the hottest time of year, with lush growth and at times overbearing heat. Symbolized by the lion, this time of year lets out a grand roar, a kingly self-proclamation of greatness, and all of nature is primed to listen. In the fixed, fire sign of the zodiac, the boundless energy of fire is made stable, fixed with a sense of focus and direction that has great inertia and drive – if only it can get motivated. More so than with other signs, we can see that ‘fixed’ doesn’t mean stationary or placid, but rather constant and unyielding. Leo natives have a profound amount of self-regard, which can manifest as confidence when held in check, or arrogance when left to run amuck. In either case, Leo native’s energy can be catching, if not scorching, for peers and friends, as the Leo native may desire attention in order to fan the fire of his or her swelling ego. On the other side, Leo natives are willing to shine on others as much or more attention than they receive. Furthermore, they place their sentimentality in the personality of others, never forgetting a kind gesture and remaining loyal to friends and acquaintances for years.
When Jesus returned to Capernaum after some days, it became known that he was at home. Many gathered together so that there was no longer room for them, not even around the door, and he preached the word to them. They came bringing to him a paralytic carried by four men. Unable to get near Jesus because of the crowd, they opened up the roof above him. After they had broken through, they let down the mat on which the paralytic was lying. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, “Child, your sins are forgiven.” Now some of the scribes were sitting there asking themselves, “Why does this man speak that way? He is blaspheming. Who but God alone can forgive sins?” Jesus immediately knew in his mind what they were thinking to themselves, so he said, “Why are you thinking such things in your hearts? Which is easier, to say to the paralytic, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Rise, pick up your mat and walk’? But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority to forgive sins on earth” – he said to the paralytic, “I say to you, rise, pick up your mat, and go home.” He rose, picked up his mat at once, and went away in the sight of everyone. They were all astounded and glorified God, saying, “We have never seen anything like this.” Mark 2:1-12
There is no injunction to his patient to be quiet about the miracles performed as elsewhere. Rather, everything about Jesus’s miracle on this instance speaks of and entails a grand spectacle, attracting attention. Although in a house, it is as if Christ is on stage, with many people about him to see and receive his miracles as an audience. And much like on the Greek stage, a machine is employed to raise or descend key players into the drama. However, it is God who is on stage here, and one in need of God descending, rather than one in need on stage, and a God descending. It is important for Leo natives to be on display, to be the center of the spectacle. There is nothing wrong with a little attention, and it is often where Leo natives feel most comfortable. All that is needed is humility, and recognition of the fact that the spectacle – the healing of the paralytic – is never the truest miracle, but that which is unseen. The faith in God, and the forgiveness of sins, must always stay in Leo native’s humble memory, and all ours.
Virgo as Christian
Virgo marks the section of the ecliptic from 150-179 degrees, with 180 degrees being due West. The earth mutable sign which terminates summer, Virgo is associated with farming, the harvest, and going back to work. It is an industrious time of year, and as such represents industry and hard work in natives who have planets located in this portion of the ecliptic. In perhaps an almost crude metaphor, the Virgo is symbolized by a Virgin, and she represents preparedness for the fall, which symbolizes marriage. It is a time when one needs to be organized and occupied, managing their affairs and preparing for the cold winter to come, while it is still warm and the days somewhat long. One is reminded of the ten virgins, who watched and waited for the coming of the bridegroom – some were prepared, and others not. Or Aesop’s fable of the ant and the grasshopper – the ant is certainly the Virgo native, caring less for sociality and comfort, and more for industry and preparedness. Admittedly, Virgo natives can seem stodgy and reserved, and worrying and indecisive. But this latent frustration is directed toward a practical end, and if put to good use, they will be the virgins upon whom the less prepared rely in times of misfortune, when the bridegroom does finally come.
“A sower went out to sow his seed. And as he sowed, some seed fell on the path and was trampled, and the birds of the sky ate it up. Some seed fell on rocky ground, and when it grew, it withered for lack of moisture. Some seed fell among thorns, and the thorns grew wit hit and choked it. And some seed fell on good soil, and when it grew, it produced fruit a hundredfold.” After saying this, he called out “Whoever has ears to hear ought to hear.” Then his disciples asked him what the meaning of this parable might be. He answered, “Knowledge of the mysteries of the kingdom of God has been granted to you, but to the rest, they are made known through parables so that ‘they may look but not see, and hear but not understand’. This is the meaning of the parable. The seed is the word of God. Those on the path are the ones who have heard, but the devil comes and takes away the word from their hearts that they may not believe and be saved. Those on rocky ground are the ones who, when they hear, receive the word with joy, but they have no root, they believe only for a time and fall away in time of trial. As for the seed that fell among thorns, they are the ones who have heard, but as they go along, are choked by the anxieties and riches and pleasures of life, and they fail to produce mature fruit. But as for the seed that fell on rich soil, they are the ones who, when they have heard the word, embrace it with a generous and good heart and bear fruit through perseverance.” Luke 8:5-15
You may have anticipated that I would recount the parable of the virgins, but that would be much too literal, and more importantly, that parable comes from the Gospel of Matthew, which represents air, not the Gospel of Luke, which symbolizes earth. Nevertheless, both parables are about preparedness – here we see the preparedness of the earth in preparation for the harvest. For the seed, the word of God, to yield mature fruit, the earth itself must be of an arable quality, and free of bramble and weeds. Such arable soil is the heart of the prepared, cultivated Virgo native, and poor soil that Virgo native who is occupied of the things of the world. Before this parable is told, the gospel author tells the reader that certain women followed Jesus, women whom he had healed and who came from all manner of life, and who followed Jesus and even made provisions for him and the apostles when able. So too does the Virgo native support those around him or her, when they have been somewhat antisocial and born up literal or figurative stores of surplus. However, Virgo natives must be patient, and ever wary of becoming cynical or hard-hearted, for in such condition, the seed of God does not take root, and bears no fruit for the harvest.
Libra as Christian
Libra is the name of that portion of the ecliptic from 180-209 degrees, with 180 being due West. The Sun enters Libra by giving us equal length day and night, before extending darkness to greater hours. The cardinal air sign of the zodiac, Libra natives are social and abstract, but rational and aware of their surroundings. They want things to be balanced and beautiful, and this requires that the days grow shorter and colder, in order to balance the fiery lengthening days of Spring. Scales are an apt symbol for this time of year, for they represent a temperamental nature that is easily set off kilter. Things need to be just right for the Libra native to be satisfied, and the slightest social upheaval can send them reeling. That said, Libra natives have a love of equanimity and if they turn their cares from themselves, they can be great enforcers of justice and fairness in the social environment – becoming upset not at personal slights, but at slights and wrongs done to others.
Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are they who mourn, for they will be comforted.
Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the land.
Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be satisfied.
Blessed are the clean of heart, for they will see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.
Blessed are they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 5:3-10
Such is the presentation of the higher law – the blessings and rewards delineated for the rightness of spirit and disposition which the Lord Jesus now demands of his followers. The sun is in Libra during late September and most of October, the period during which the ancient Hebrew high holidays of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur often fall. These are the days of annunciation of redemption and the Day of Atonement respectively, and are supremely important for practicing Jewish persons today. Libra as the scales represents judgment before that law, and is a time of pleading unto God for mercy and forgiveness – for no one, no not one, is worthy of the law on his or her own merits. Before such unachievable standards, one can become terrified of judgment or despondent about one’s status, and the Libra native is much like this – confident and passionate when all is well, but quickly and easily upset by a deviation from that standard, to which they hold themselves and others. Forgiveness of others does not come to Libra natives with ease – they remember slights, laws broken, and do not easily forget. But Jesus offers a newer, higher law that is not so filled with prescriptions as much as it demands of each of us transformation. And the period of the ecliptic associated with the herald of the West and the shortening of days represents the initiation of that transformative period, when the year begins to die and winter is coming. For God commanded the Semites, that although spring began the first months, the new year was counted in the fall, for darkness and light were the first day, not light and darkness.
Scorpio as Christian
Transformation occurs in the portion of the ecliptic called Scorpio, delineating 210-239 degrees of the ecliptic, halfway between 180 degrees as due West and 270 degrees as due South. This is the time of year when the days become shorter with the most speed and intensity, the grind of winter fast approaching – rightly termed ‘fall’ in English. The fixed water sign of the zodiac, this portion of the ecliptic is symbolized by a Scorpion, a creature that dwells in the desert with all its water contained within itself. So too are Scorpio natives highly sensitive creatures, but many adapt to the world’s harsh environment by creating around themselves a shell and never divulging their true emotional dispositions with any authenticity. It would be too easy to be wounded, and so many Scorpio natives have a thick wall of armor. Those that opt not, however, are better symbolized by the Babylonian figure for this time of year – the eagle or phoenix. Emotionally-open Scorpio natives can completely lose themselves in something – a person or a project --- and die, only to rise from the ashes by resurrecting themselves again as new, transformed selves. All Scorpio natives have a piercing eye for detail which grounds their emotional sensitivity, even more so than Libra natives, who precede them on the ecliptic. As such, they have detailed memories and can be alarmingly sentimental, and also acutely aware of other’s decisions and emotions – leading many to become empathetic with animals and strangers, rather than those closest to them situationally, like family members, peers, and coworkers. Those with whom they become emotionally attached they may seek to control, for their love of detail and acuity makes them feel they’re right – or they may simply love completely and unconditionally, and subsume their life into that of those they love.
On the third day there was a wedding in Cana in Galilee, and the mother of Jesus was there. Jesus and his disciples were also invited to the wedding. When the wine ran short, the mother of Jesus said to him, “They have no wine.” And Jesus said to her, “Woman, how does your concern affect me? My hour has not yet come.” His mother said to the servers, “Do whatever he tells you.” Now there were six stone water jars there for Jewish ceremonial washings, each holding twenty to thirty gallons. Jesus told them, “Fill the jars with water.” So they filled them to the brim. Then he told them, “Draw some out now and take it to the headwaiter.” So they took it. And when the headwater tasted the water that had become wine, without knowing where it came from (although the servers who had drawn the water knew), the headwater called the bridegroom and said to him “Everyone serves good wine first, and then when people have drunk freely, an inferior one; but you have kept the good wine until now.”
This miracle is marked by a transformation, not unlike the one that Scorpio natives have the capacity to undergo when they lose themselves in a project, another person, or a disaster. And despite what the natural eye may see, what they become after the transformation is of greater value than what they were before. Scorpio natives, therefore, are that good wine which Jesus transformed from water and which entertained his mother. Importantly, too, is that Jesus performed this miracle at his mother’s behest – she was controlling and commanding of the Lord Jesus, but it was her place, and she was in fact correct in her bidding of him. So too, when Scorpio natives meddle in the affairs of others, do so with love for the other’s best interest. We could call it maternalism, rather than paternalism, for it is motivated by care and compassion, rather than an objective, higher standard. All the same, Scorpio natives cannot involve themselves with others nor transform themselves into greater things without the help of the Master, who sees the end from the beginning, and who improves us all by grace.
Sagittarius as Christian
Sagittarius is the name of that portion of the ecliptic which extends from 240-269 degrees, where 270 degrees is due South. Although one of the lowest parts of the zodiac and the darkest times of year, Sagittarius is forward looking to when the days will grow long again, for the period of shortening days is coming to its close. This is marked in the Christian calendar by Advent, or the four weeks which precede Christmas, one of the holiest days of the Christian liturgical year. Symbolized by the centaur, a half man, half horse creature, Sagittarius is embodied by the struggle of reason against carnality. The upper half symbolizes humanity in its most rational, forward thinking and ideal aspect, while the four feet of the horse symbolize the carnality of the animal half of human nature. Nevertheless, despite this sharp inner conflict between the rational and ideal and the carnal and emotional, the human half of the centaur aims upward, with a bow and arrow, shooting for the stars. In much the same way, despite the dominant, darkening time of year, Advent looks forward to the coming of Christ and the growing days of winter and spring. As such, this time of year indicates a deep and ideal optimism, despite the dark surroundings and cold air that constitute winter’s reality. So too do Sagittarius natives struggle between the despair of pragmatism and the distance of the ideal, yet somehow kindle an internal fire of optimism for themselves and others, that somehow is maintained despite the harsh realities of life.
In those days when there again was a great crowd without anything to eat, he summoned the disciples and said, “My heart is moved with pity for the crowd, because they have been with me now for three days and have nothing to eat. If I send them away hungry to their homes, they will collapse on the way, and some of them have come a great distance.” His disciples answered him, “Where can anyone get enough bread to satisfy them here in this deserted place?” Still he asked them, “How many loaves do you have?” “Seven,” they replied. He ordered the crowd to sit down on the ground. Then, taking the seven loaves he gave thanks, broke them, and gave them to his disciples to distribute, and they distributed them to the crowd. They also had a few fish. He said the blessing over them and ordered them distributed also. They ate and were satisfied. They picked up the fragments left over – seven baskets. There were about four thousand people. He dismissed them. Mark 8:1-9
In this miracle we see the contrast between the pragmatic limitations of a serious situation and the power of Christ to overcome such limiting factors. While the disciples represent the pragmatic, carnal perspective of the world, Christ embodies the upward reaching, humanitarian ideal that overcomes temporal obstacles. The disciples express the practically rational limitations: “Where can anyone get enough bread to satisfy them here in this deserted place?” So too is the darkness of winter or the cold, harsh realities of life. However, in facing these circumstances, it is possible to have hope in Christ, and look forward to the abundance that God can distribute through his Only Begotten Son. There ends up being not sufficient food, but surplus – more than was needed. Although it is important to keep our feet rationally on the ground when it comes to making plans and taking on projects, it is also important to remember that Christ can accomplish when and what we cannot, through the power of his grace. A Sagittarius native can remember to embody that outlook, even when things are looking dark and dreary, and there isn’t enough loaves and fishes to go around. However, if we trust in Christ, there will always be sufficient for our needs, and even too much.
Capricorn as Christian
Capricorn is the name of that portion of the ecliptic which extends from 270-299 degrees, with 270 representing due South. Beginning with the nadir of the ecliptic and seasonal year, Capricorn indicates the authority that time and structure have over our temporal and social worlds. Therefore, those born with Sun in Capricorn have an astute awareness of social hierarchies and the locus of authority, and they learn to navigate these dynamics with a sense of the vertical, top-bottom aspects of sociality. Symbolized in the Greco-Roman tradition by a chimera which his half goat and half fish, Capricorn embodies the apex and nadir of authority and subjection, dominance and submission. While there is a tendency to be ambitious and something of a social climber, Capricorn natives also have a dark, lonely place within that is never forgotten, ever aware of the emotional costs that come with social power. While Capricorn natives have a practical emotional side which is far-seeing and able to judge character and morality, there is also a sense in which Capricorn natives struggle to reconcile their own emotional needs with society’s strictures and demands. Reconciling the heights and depths of their own mentality with that of their social world often requires organization, self-discipline, and tenacity – innate attributes which Capricorn natives can put to personal, ambitious, humanitarian or positive, giving use. For what endeavor involving people doesn’t require that human beings be organized and structured?
While the crowd was pressing in on Jesus and listening to the word of God, he was standing by the Lake of Gennesaret. He saw two boats there alongside the lake; the fishermen had disembarked and were washing their nets. Getting into one of the boats, the one belonging to Simon, he asked him to put out a short distance from the shore. Then he sat down and taught the crowds from the boat. After he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into deep water and lower your nets for a catch.” Simon said in reply, “Master, we have worked hard all night and have caught nothing, but at your command I will lower the nets.” When they had done this, they caught a great number of fish and their nets were tearing. They signaled to their partners in the other boat to come to help them. They came and filled both boats so that they were in danger of sinking. When Simon Peter saw this, he fell at the knees of Jesus and said, “Depart from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man.” For astonishment at the catch of fish they had made seized him and all those with him, and likewise James and John, the sons of Zebedee, who were partners of Simon. Jesus said to Simon, “Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching men.” Luke 5:1-10
Symbolically, we have Peter, James and John fishing – reaching down into the deep in order to pull up some of the Lord’s bounty. More importantly, we have the establishment of the beginning of Christ’s temporal authority, with the first apostles called to his ministry. Peter recognizes Christ’s authority twice – first in obeying the Savior in lowering the nets despite his own experience, and again after the miracle of the fishes, in order to reverence him. Traditionally, each zodiac sign governs a part of the body, and Capricorn governs the knees – the part of the body on which we fall when we pay obeisance to one greater than ourselves. So too does Peter fall into this penitential posture, in order to show the mortal Savior his humility and indebtedness. But, in this very act of submission, Peter would in time become an authority himself – the vertical relationship of the temporal church being initially established with him. As a Christian the posture of prayer is important for recognizing where we stand before the Savior. He is our Redeemer, and in recognizing our own nullity before him, we too become empowered, just as Peter. The transformative power of Christ’s grace can only work within us if we submit ourselves to His will. But, in turn, we will find ourselves empowered and exalted by Him.
Aquarius as Christian
The portion of the ecliptic marked by Aquarius is that from 300-329 degrees, if 270 is due South and 360 due East. The center of winter, Aquarius usually coincides with the Lenten season in the liturgical calendar, during which the days begin to lengthen and we look forward to the coming of Spring – and Christ’s redemption. Lent is a period of purgation and spiritual self-denial, and as such, Aquarius natives are both stubborn and self-contained, and yet socially enlightened by the spiritual enrichment that comes with this time of year. Aquarian natives are impulsive, practical, and obstinate, but also humanitarian, global in their mindset, and pleasantly unique. Some Aquarians are socially awkward and aloof, while others are socially adept and loquacious. All Aquarians are stubborn, self-contained, and audacious – caring more for the look and sound of words than for their emotional import. Called the Water Bearer in Greco-Roman society in part because this was the time period of the Nile’s overflow, Aquarians have a tendency to be emotionally detached – seeing the world socially, rationally, and practically rather than sympathetically. If water represents the emotions, Aquarius natives bear the emotions of others while not feeling them themselves, remaining rationally removed from the feelings which drag others down. Instead, they focus on ideals and concepts, making themselves pure in preparation for something amazing, although they themselves may not even know what.
When Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, in the days of King Herod, behold, magi from the east arrived in Jerusalem, saying “Where is the newborn king of the Jews? We saw his star at its rising and have come to do him homage.” When King Hero heard this, he was greatly troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. Assembling all the chief priests and the scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Messiah was to be born. They said to him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for thus it has been written through the prophet: ‘And you, Bethlehem, land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; since from you shall come a ruler, who is to shepherd my people Israel.’” Then Herod called the magi secretly and ascertained from them the time of the star’s appearance. He sent them to Bethlehem and said, “Go and search diligently for the child. When you have found him, bring me word, that I too may go and do him homage.” After their audience with the king they set out. And behold, the star that they had seen at its rising preceded them, until it came and stopped over the place where the child was. They were overjoyed at seeing the star, and on entering the house they saw the child with Mary his mother. They prostrated themselves and did him homage. Then they opened their treasures and offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. And having been warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they departed for their country by another way. Matthew 2:1-12
Astronomy and astrology in ancient times were the highest of rational arts, and they were as much mathematical and scientific as they were spiritual and divinatory. Astrology was just one way among many of communicating with God, and we can see from their use of scripture that the wise men availed themselves of not only astrology, but the written word of God as well. Rationality, inquiry, and language lead the way for Aquarians, and although they pride themselves on rational discipline, when their ideals are fulfilled they, like the three wise men, are overjoyed. In addition to astrology and the written word, the wise men were also sensitive to dreams, and through these they were able to distinguish whom and whom not to trust. It is the dawning of the Age of Aquarius, and one of the things which marks this age is the glut of information and resources which abound the human life. However, the wise men show that with discrimination, a happy synthesis can be found amongst all these influences, so long as love of God and trust in His plan guides the way. Navigating the seas of information and influence is possible if we follow the one lode star, which is Christ, and keep our compass focused securely on Him.