ASTRO 202 Overview

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BEYOND BASICS:
Tools for the Consulting Astrologer
Textbook for Astro 202
By Carol A. Tebbs
Portions Contributed by Evan Bortnick
Published by
P.O. Box 85 Basye, VA 22810
Web: http://www.astrocollege.com
E-mail: [email protected]
ISBN: 0-9727238-6-2
First Electronic Edition: 2003
Copyright ©2003 Carol A. Tebbs
All rights reserved.
No part of this publication may be reproduced or redistributed in any form
without the express written consent of the publisher, except for brief
passages which may be quoted in reviews.
The authors and the publisher have made every effort to ensure the
accuracy and completeness of the information contained in this book.
However, they assume no responsibility for errors, omissions, inaccuracies,
or inconsistencies contained herein.
Cover by Vicky Perrone
ii
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Astro 202 Syllabus
Astro 202 Overview
Chapter 1 Seeing the Big Picture
With Lifetime Declination Graphics
v
vi
1
Chapter 2 Plotting Progressions, Directions
and Transits With Graphics
23
Chapter 3 Forecasting With Solar and Lunar Eclipses
43
Chapter 4 Calculating, Interpreting and Forecasting
With Solar and Lunar Returns
67
Chapter 5 It's Your Choice: Electing the Best Time for an Event
91
Chapter 6 Relocating to a Better Place to Fulfill Life Potential
111
Chapter 7 Assessing Natal Relationship Potential and
Comparing Charts for Compatibility With Synastry
129
Chapter 8 Finding Family Patterns
and Interpreting Group Synastry
152
Chapter 9 Calculating and Interpreting Relationships and
Group Dynamics With Composites
167
Chapter 10 Rectifying Questionable or Unknown
Birth Times
iii
189
Chapter 11 Rectifying the Jimmy Swaggart Chart:
Follow Up to the Practice Work
221
Appendix
231
About the Author
234
iv
ASTRO 202 SYLLABUS
Week 1 – Seeing the Big Picture With Lifetime Declination Graphics
Week 2 – Seeing the Chart in Motion - Graphing Progressions and Transits
Week 3 – Forecasting With Solar and Lunar Eclipses
Week 4 – Calculating and Interpreting Solar and Lunar Returns
Week 5 – Moving the Solar Return Through the Year
Week 6 – Electing the Best Time for An Event
Week 7 – Relocating to a Better Place to Fulfill Life Potential
Week 8 – Assessing Natal Relationship Potential With Synastry
Week 9 – Comparing Charts for Compatibility With Synastry
Week 10 – Finding Family Patterns and Interpreting Group Synastry
Week 11 – Calculating and Interpreting Relationships With Composites
Week 12 – Calculating and Interpreting Group Dynamics With Composites
Week 13 – Rectifying Questionable or Unknown Birth Times – Final Practice
Week 14 – Rectifying Questionable or Unknown Birth Times – Final Follow-up
v
ASTRO 202 Overview:
Tools For the Consulting Astrologer
Following upon the completion of the ASTRO 100 series of
classes and ASTRO 201, ASTRO 202 completes the basics needed
by an astrologer, to do competent interpretations and
astrologically address the needs of most clients. The tools for
interpreting birth charts in the 100 series, the timing techniques for
unfolding patterns in 201, and now the life pattern and chart
comparison techniques of 202 complete a good astrological
foundation.
However, professional practice standards and
additional skills must be honed in the specialty areas which are
provided in the Elective series of classes that follow ASTRO 202
from Counseling Skills to Ethics; from Financial Astrology to
Mundane; from Uranian Astrology to Mid-points. As must be
evident by now, the art of astrology is not mastered in a few
classes. One studies the complexities of astrology for a lifetime,
amazed how it all works, and at the same time wondering why the
public isn’t beating down our doors to share the profound insights.
Advanced Techniques for Natal Forecasting
& Interpretation
Graphics – 2 weeks:
ASTRO 202 begins with a study of the various ways graphics
can be used to enhance the astrologer’s understanding of a client’s
long-range patterns from one year to a lifetime. It is assumed that
vi
you already own a computer and an astrological software program
with graphics capability such as Solar Fire 5.0, Win*Star 2.0, or
Kepler 5.0 that now can be used for the 202 class; however, handcalculation instructions are provided for all lessons, and indeed,
directed for a few where some student and professional
examinations may require hand-calculation.
The Life Declination graphic is a wonderful tool for seeing
the “big picture” that progresses the natal planetary declinations
for 90 years, or however many years you choose. The moving
planetary lines intersect with stationary natal planet lines to
indicate parallels. Contra-parallels can be spotted equidistant
above and below the 0 degree Crossover that divides north from
south declination. Planets that move to maximum north or south,
out of bounds, or to the 0 degree crossover point signal key life
turning points that coincide with events. Since the declinations
move slower than transits, secondary progressions or solar arc
directions, the life declination graphic can be especially useful in
working with charts having rounded-off or even indefinite birth
times without going through the long and demanding rectification
process.
Similarly, the wheel format for any of the other techniques
used by the astrologer can be turned into a graph. The advantage
of the graph is that the planetary changes over time can be seen all
at once. The traditional wheel format for the chart is a snapshot of
time, whereas the graph is a moving picture of time. The
astrologer may choose to view a lifetime of Secondary
Progressions or Solar Arc Directions, or choose the outer transits
for a year. The choices are endless. It does take some experience
vii
and practice, however, to select wisely and avoid getting too many
lines in the graph to see the patterns clearly. Usually, several
graphs serve the astrologer best.
Eclipse Basics and Interpretation – 1 week:
Both Solar and Lunar Eclipses signal an emphasis to the
affairs of the house contacted for the period from one eclipse of its
kind to the next. For instance, a solar eclipse in the second house
brings greater attention to budgeting, spending, saving and other
related money issues. The influence lasts about six months until
the next solar eclipse that then emphasizes another house, usually
170 degrees away on the other side of the horoscope. Lunar
eclipses work in a similar manner, but signal the emotional
beginnings or endings of what the solar eclipse brings into focus.
Most often the lunar eclipse occurs 2 weeks prior to the solar
eclipse, but sometimes it occurs 2 weeks after. Nonetheless, the
solar and lunar eclipses work as a team to activate the planets and
houses of the chart.
Solar and Lunar Eclipses become especially important when
they conjunct or oppose a natal or progressed planet or sensitive
point in the chart within a one to three degree orb. Of course, the
one-degree orb is especially powerful in highlighting the issues
related to the natal planet and its own close planetary aspects.
Most astrologers consider eclipse conjunctions and oppositions
important indicators of emphasis to the houses and planets
contacted, but some astrologers consider all 4th harmonic aspects:
the conjunction, opposition and square. Other major or minor
aspects are generally not considered when working with eclipses.
viii
Solar Return Basics and Interpretation – 2 weeks:
The moment each year that the Sun returns to its same
degree and minute in the birth chart (a snapshot of all the planets
at that exact time) becomes the Solar Return Chart. It is important
to remember that only the Sun has returned to its natal position.
All of the other planets will have their current transit positions for
that date and time. Further, the Sun returns to its natal position
each year, but not at the same time as your birth, so different chart
angles and planetary placements will occur. Any planet falling in
angular houses becomes in focus for the year. Planets on angles,
and to a lesser extent on cusps, become especially high in focus.
Needless to say, closely aspected planetary configurations
involving the angles are of major importance.
Electional Basics and Interpretation – 1 week:
When a client is planning a wedding, signing a major
contract or planning a major event of any sort, an astrologer can
provide a good date and time for the beginning of the venture to
ensure likely success. Of course the perfect electional chart does
not exist, but within the time window available and the priorities of
the client, the astrologer can provide one to several appropriate
times. A good ephemeris is handy for selecting the best day, but
careful work is needed to place the event at a time when the
Midheaven and Ascendant and Moon make good aspects.
Further, the astrologer considers the term of the event – such as a
conference lasting several days – and chooses a date and time that
the faster moving Moon, Midheaven and Ascendant do not move
into conflict during the time framework of the event.
ix
Relocation Basics and Interpretation – 1 week:
It is not unusual for a client to seek assistance in selecting a
good place to move that highlights his best potential. For instance,
a morning birth located in the USA Mid-West with the Sun/Venus
conjunct the 12th cusp, when moved to the West Coast, the same
Sun/Venus moves to conjunct the Ascendant. Clearly, the
individual has a much better opportunity for creative selfexpression when located on the West Coast. Using relocation
techniques, other planets can be placed on an angle to highlight
the client’s interest. If the client is a writer, he may want Mercury
prominently placed in the relocation, etc. It is always important to
be fully aware of the close aspect natal patterns to avoid trouble
spots while at the same time bringing planets to the forefront by
relocation.
Chart Comparison Techniques for Determining Compatibility
Synastry Basics and Interpretation – 3 weeks:
Synastry techniques focus on the various purposes for
comparing two or more charts that range from partners seeking
compatibility advice, to workers choosing a new company, to
family members searching for common grounds of
communication. Basic synastry construction sets one chart in the
center, while one or more other charts are set around it, in the
context of the center chart. The Midheaven and Ascendant of the
outer chart(s) are also placed within the context of the central
chart. The charts are then examined by analyzing the planetary
contacts and patterns formed between the charts.
ASTRO 202 provides practice in both the synastry of
x
personal relationship comparison and the synastry of multiple
chart comparison for delving into family patterns or group
dynamics.
Composite Basics and Interpretation – 2 weeks:
While Synastry is the comparison between two or more
individual horoscopes, the Composite is a completely new chart
based upon a synthesis of two or more charts to arrive at the
midpoints between the planets of the individual(s). The 15 degree
Aries Sun of one and the 15 degree Gemini Sun of the other find a
mid-point at 15 degrees of Taurus, and so on for each planet.
Calculation can become quite complicated, and a basic
understanding of midpoints is needed, but an astrology computer
program is allowed to get confirmation of your calculations.
Techniques for Rectification
of Questionable and Unknown Birth Times
Rectification Practice and Interpretation – 2 weeks:
Nowadays most births occur in hospitals, and most hospitals
record birth time with reasonable accuracy. However in some
cases, the client does not know his birth time and may have
exhausted all avenues for finding it; in other cases, life events
consistently do not line up with the timing of movement of planets
to angles, or angles to planets and rectification is the process the
astrologer uses to make time determinations and adjustments.
Only rarely necessary in consulting work, rectification is the
ultimate test of the astrologer’s timing and forecasting skills.
xi
Library Building and Supplemental Reading
(Optional)
Robert Blaschke, Astrology: A Language of Life, Vol. I
Progressions, Earthwalk School of Astrology, 1998, pp.137
Bernadette Brady, Predictive Astrology: The Eagle and the
Lark, Samuel Weiser, 1999, 367 pps.
Zipporah Dobyns & Maritha Pottenger, Unveiling Your
Future: Progressions Made Easy, ACS Publications, 1998, pp. 310
Robert Hand, Planets In Composite: Analyzing Human
Relationships, Para Research, Inc., 1975, pp 366
Edith Hathaway, Navigating By the Stars, Llewelyn
Publications, 1991, pp. 295
Jim Lewis & Ariel Guttman, The Astro*Carto*Graphy Book
of Maps, Llewelyn Publications, pp. 300
Marion March & Joan McEvers, The Only Way to Learn
About Relationships, Vol. 5, ACS Publications, San Diego, CA,
1992, pp. 213
Marion March & Joan McEvers, The Only Way to Learn
About Tomorrow, Vol. 4, ACS Publications, San Diego, CA, 1988,
pp.261
xii
Marion March & Joan McEvers, The Only Way to Learn
About Horary and Electional Astrology, Vol. 6, ACS Publications,
San Diego, CA, 1992, pp. 223
Carol Rushman, The Art of Predictive Astrology: Forecasting
Your Life Events, Llewelyn Publications, 2002, pp. 272
Erin Sullivan, Dynasty, The Astrology of Family Dynamics,
available through Astrolabe, www.alabe.com, 1998.
Celeste Teal, Identifying Planetary Triggers: Astrological
Techniques for Prediction, Llewellyn Publications, 2000, pp. 364
Noel Tyl, Prediction In Astrology, A Master Volume of
Technique and Practice, Llewelyn Publications, 1991, pp. 339
Once ASTRO 202 and the other 200 series classes are
completed, including Ethics Training ASTRO 206, you will have
the “Astrologer’s Basic Tool Kit” and will be ready to specialize
through the Online College of Astrology’s many fine elective
offerings.
xiii
Chapter 1
Seeing the Big Picture With Lifetime Declination Graphics
Many astrologers and students of astrology now have
computers and good astrological software with graphing capability,
among other advanced features. The “Dynamic” or graphing
function allows us to see the unfolding natal chart in time in a
variety of ways such as progressions, transits and declinations.
Many astrologers don’t bother much with natal parallel and contraparallels of declination, much less follow their progressed positions,
but the Progressed Declination Graphic can become an invaluable
tool for initiating a dialogue with the client about past important
time periods in his life. The cyclical motion of the progressed
Moon declination, combined with the progressed declination of the
angles and inner planets, marks all of the major life-turning point
years in the life-time of the individual.
To begin, some declination terminology is important to
know:
o The Ecliptic, caused by the tilt of the Earth’s axis, is the imaginary
band within which the Sun traces its path during the course of the
year from 23 degrees 27 minutes north, to 23 degrees 27 minutes
south declination.
1
o Crossover occurs at the celestial equator, or 0 degrees, when the
any planet or angle moves from north declination to south, or south
declination to north.
o Out of Bounds occurs when a planet exceeds the band of the
Sun’s ecliptic path at 23 degrees 27 north or south.
o Parallel and Contra-parallel are the aspects formed when the
declination of two or more planets or points are within 1 degree of
aspect. The parallel equals a conjunction, and the contra-parallel
equals an opposition.
o Maximum North or South Declination refers to the most extreme
limit of declination that a planet or point can travel. The
Midheaven follows the Sun’s constant pattern taking its declination
from the Sun for the ephemeris date corresponding to the MC’s
sign and degree. The Asc is derived from the Midheaven position
located in the Table of Houses at the latitude of the native’s birth.
Many asteroids regularly exceed the out-of-bounds limit by as
much as 34 + degrees north or south, but they will not be used for
this study. At times, the Moon, Mercury, Venus and Mars exceed
the ecliptic limit to 28+ degrees; and Jupiter, Uranus, Neptune and
Pluto do not exceed the ecliptic by more than 3 minutes of
declination. True to form, only Saturn always stays within the
Sun’s bounds of 23 degrees 27 declination. Ultimately, the length
of out of bounds varies widely for the cycle of each planet.
o The Moon Declination Cycle is as regular as clockwork even
when it goes out-of-bounds. At predictable seven-year intervals
(quarter points of the Moon’s 27.32 year declination cycle), the
Moon completes one full cycle of one N/S crossover, one
maximum South station, one S/N crossover, and one maximum
North station.
One day equals one year of life in secondary progressions,
and in similar fashion, one day of declination equals one year of
life. You may choose to hand calculate your declinations using an
ephemeris, and progress them for a lifetime to spot important
periods of life change. However, there are two important
2
drawbacks to hand calculation: the amount of time to calculate,
and the ephemeris convention of reporting declination at only
three-day intervals, if at all. Of course if you are hand-calculating,
the declination positions may be taken straight from the ephemeris
as exact on your Adjusted Calculation Date.
Basically, a lifetime declination graphic tracks 90 days (years)
of declination movement for each planet. I strongly recommend
any of the major astrological programs that allow graphic display
of ephemeris information. Two very good formats are presented
here.
Graphing Declinations Using Astrolabe’s SolarFire 5.0
First, birth chart data must be entered and calculated. Then
go to the toolbar at the top of the screen and select “Dynamic”,
and then “Graphic Ephemeris”. Several fields from many choices
must be selected to complete the screen. Choose “progressions”
in the “Ephemeris Selection” field. Further choices are contained
in that field under progressions to select the “Dynamic Type”.
Select “secondary”.
In the field just beneath “Ephemeris Selection” field you may
choose to sort by longitude, declination or latitude. Select
“declination” and in the field below will select a 30-degree (north
and south) grid. Of course, if the asteroids are to be included,
then select 40 or 45 degrees. Several check boxes below allow
you to select the parameters for display.
In the field to the far right of the screen you may select the
planets to include. Be sure to select “planets” which should
3
include all planets and chart points including the Moon. Also be
sure to select the “include natal lines” option. The program
provides many options for selecting or de-selecting almost any
planet or chart factor you want.
To the left of the screen select the “Period of Report” frame
for start date, period (number) and measure (years, months, days).
I would recommend 90 years for a lifetime sort. Now, select
“View” to be sure you have gotten what you want and make any
adjustments necessary before printing.
Graphing Declinations Using Matrix’s Win*Star 2.0
¾ Be certain that you have first entered the birth data and
created a chart file.
¾ On the tool bar click on “Plus” and select “Graphic Ephemeris
Options”.
¾ To select start date, choose “Input” and then type in the birth
month, day and year.
¾ To select end date, choose “Ephemeris Length” and select
“3” and “months” to produce a 90 day (or year) graphic. Of
course, the optimists among you may select “4” instead of “3”.
¾ Go to the tab at the top of the “GEO” box and select
“Planets”. Under the “Positions” option, select “Transit”.
From that screen select the “Coordinate” option and then
“Declination”. Under “Dial” option” leave it as is, but highlight
“Moon through Ascendant” under “Planets to plot”.
¾ Go to the “Calculation Options” tab at the top and select
“Placidus” or “Koch”, whatever is your choice of systems.
¾ Then go to the “Natal” tab at the top. Select the desired
name under “Natal Chart”, and be sure “Moon through
Ascendant” are selected under “Natal Planets to Plot”. Click
on the box to “Plot Natal Positions”.
¾ Click on “OK” at the bottom of the screen.
4
¾ Be certain to change your printer setup to “Landscape”, then
print. It takes a few minutes, so be patient.
Graphing the Lifetime Declination by Hand
Use the sample graph at the end of this lesson as a model to
chart your lifetime natal and progressed declinations. The graphic
is set up predominantly for planets and angles which do not move
beyond 30 degrees Out-of-Bounds. If you intend to chart the
declinations of the asteroids as well, then extend the outer limits of
the graph to nearer 40 degrees since they have such extreme
declinations.
Interpreting the Progressed Declination Graphic Using the
Moon
Now that we have a basic knowledge of declination
terminology and can set up our charts, we can delve into the nittygritty of interpretation. The easiest body to chart, and the one
which provides the most dramatic results for signaling life changes,
is the Moon.
1. The Moon declination at maximum North suggests career,
status and self-image types of changes – Midheaven and 10th
house matters. The changes are often expected, even
planned, because the Moon’s declination takes approximately
3 ½ years to “round the curve” and head South again. Many
major life changes that develop over time or in stages are
affected by this 10th house type of Moon station period. Such
changes could include retirement, health issues affecting the
ability to work, or the unfolding self-awareness of one’s worth
5
at work, among other things, all depending upon the aspects
that may simultaneously be formed to planets within one
degree of that station. Clearly, maximum North or maximum
South marks the end of one phase of life and the beginning of
a new one.
2. The Moon declination at maximum South suggests the IC, or
4th house matters, which suggests changes in the home and
family. As with maximum North, the changes are usually
expected – even planned – because the Moon’s declination is
at a station taking about 3 ½ years to “round the curve” to
again head toward the North. Such events as the children
moving out on their own, little ones going off to school, or
even starting a new business or hobby that influences a new
life direction can occur. In certain cases where many other
timing factors lend support, the end of life can occur at one of
these important stations of the Moon declination – North or
South.
3. Life’s “earthquakes” more often occur at the crossover points
in the Moon’s cycle because near the 0 degree N/S point the
Moon declination is traveling fast at 5 to 7 degrees per day
(year). As a result, we are often caught by surprise by the
changes that occur. People suddenly move, end dysfunctional
relationships, and sometimes do crazy things that seem out of
character. Such outer manifestations simply reflect the major
emotional changes going on within. The crossover from North
to South acts as an Ascendant conjunction and more closely
relates to personal growth issues. The crossover from South to
6
North most often acts as a Descendant conjunction bringing
growth changes to relationships.
4. Every 18 to 20 years begins the new Out-of-Bounds Moon
cycle where during half of those years (9-10) the Moon travels
OB every 10 – 14 days. The extreme declination of the Moon
reaches 28 degrees 39 minutes and stays OB for as many as 5
days at a time, or 5 years in progressed time. This recurring
pattern seems to bring forth the issues of freedom versus
security. Those with OB natal Moon declinations tend to be
more independent and willing to think outside the box of
social conventions; whereas those with in-bounds Moons
more willingly march in line with what is expected of them.
Often OB Moon individuals have unusual life experiences
involving the mother where she is ill, too busy or in some way
unable to provide adequate nurture for the child. The unusual
situation with the mother could result in such situations as
“latch key kid”, abandonment or adoption causing the person
to be raised by a relative or surrogate who fulfilled the mother
role. OB natal Moon people tend to be life’s “survivors”,
toughened by early experience.
5. By progression, the Moon moving to parallel or contra-parallel
with other planets indicates emotional issues related to the
nature of the contacted planet.
A progressed Moon
declination parallel to the natal or progressed Venus
declination might suggest a meaningful romantic involvement.
Certainly a confluence of other factors is needed to describe
longevity of the attraction. The progressed Moon declination
moving to parallel Mars might suggest an emotional
7
confrontation, or courage to tackle a difficult situation. In
similar manner, the contra-parallel, or opposition aspect,
brings hard choices to be made in the matters described by the
planets.
6. If the natal chart has parallels and/or contra-parallels, then any
planet’s progression of declination to that point will activate
the whole configuration.
7. In mundane astrology, the OB Moon corresponds to times
marked by society’s changing attitudes about women as well
as the role of our nation in the world. The extremes of
convention versus change are evident in observing the OB
Moon years of the 20th century:
October 28, 1889 – September 12, 1899 - the Women’s
Suffrage movement was born.
June 29, 1908 – April 2, 1918 – pressures between
nations led to World War I.
February 28, 1927 – December 13, 1936 – the peak of
the “Roaring 20’s”, and the depths of the Depression
prevailed.
October 13, 1945 – August 13, 1955 – post-war security
and home life was upset by the Korean War.
May 2, 1965 – February 14, 1974 – the push for equality
by Civil Rights and Women’s Liberation groups was
contrasted by anti-Vietnam War demonstrations and the
freedom of Hippie culture.
8
November 29, 1982 – August 15, 1991 - the collapse of
Communism brought down the Berlin Wall and ushered in a
new world order with massive immigration and globalization.
April 13, 2002 – January 16, 2012 – hopefully, will bring
the next big push for freedom in the world and equal rights
for all.
Remember, during these OB Moon periods the Moon is only
Out-of-Bounds about one-third of the time or 10 days per month,
but the forces for change and new ideas experience a birth-like
“quickening” during the whole period.
It is interesting to note that one generation averages twenty
years, therefore, many OB Moon parents have OB Moon children.
Further, the Moon can never go OB in Pisces/Aries or Virgo/Libra
because those signs are near the equinoxes. The Moon only goes
OB in Gemini/Sagittarius or Cancer/Capricorn near the solstices.
Interpreting Planets in Progressed Declination
When looking at the graph for other planets and points in
declination, parallels and contra-parallels can be easily spotted
even without an exact birth time, though a birth chart set for Noon
serves well for unknown birth times. Mercury, Venus and Mars
regularly go OB up to 28+ degrees North or South. Mercury by
declination stays OB from 9 to 31 days (years) at a time, so natal
OB Mercury could have an impact on the learning readiness of a
child or the mental focus of an adult for much of a lifetime,
depending upon how close Mercury is to changing direction.
Venus by declination stays OB from 11 to 56 days (years) at a
9
time, so the impact upon one’s comfort in socializing can be
affected for an extended period of time depending upon how close
Venus is to changing direction. One could be shy or even antisocial if Venus is OB at birth, but when the Venus declination
moves back in bounds, the pattern of social rebel or misfit can
noticeably change. Mars by declination stays OB from 50 to 187
days (years) at a time, so the impact upon one’s work focus can be
affected for an extended period – even a lifetime - depending
upon how close Mars is to changing direction. Mars OB at birth
suggests one who is comfortable working independently, and
indeed, comfortable with leadership roles.
They seem
unconstrained by what seems impossible, though this placement
often describes people who are noted for “doing their own thing”.
Interpreting Natal Out of Bounds Planets
People with personal planets out-of bounds by declination in
the birth chart are distinctive according to the nature of the OB
planet.
¾ Mercury OB suggests that the mental ability may be
unusual in some way, or that one’s ideas are considered
unconventional. He could also be a free thinker who
does not care what others think.
¾ Venus OB suggests that one experiences pleasure in
unconventional ways, or has non-traditional romantic
relationships or sexual practices. OB Venus may also
suggest a lack of concern for appearances or social
graces.
10
¾ Mars OB could indicate one who is extremely work
driven, or who is very active in physical pursuits.
Distinctive qualities of leadership may be evident, though
some possibility of being unseated from that authority by
adversaries exists.
¾ The other planets never move OB more than 3 minutes,
so they have no appreciable OB effect. Indeed, they stay
OB, even at that small increment, for so many days
(years) that only historians may notice the effect.
As you can see, a wealth of information may be gained by
using the Life Declination Graphic to reveal important periods of
life change. Of course, the astrologer then goes to other more
detailed measures of time to follow the unfolding of events.
Interpreting Progressed Planets & Angles at Maximum N or S
Only the Sun, Moon, inner planets and angles progress
noticeably enough in declination during a lifetime to form new
declination contacts in parallels, contra-parallels, maximum N or S,
crossover, out of bounds or change of direction. The progressed
declinations of Jupiter through Pluto move so little distance in a
lifetime that, when contacted by an inner planet or angle, the
nature of the natal planet is merely reinforced.
Interpret the planet-to-planet contacts in parallel
(conjunction) and contra-parallel (opposition) in just the same way
that you would in a natal chart, by blending the nature of the
planetary symbolism.
However, the inner planets and angles
moving to crossover in either direction, or to maximum N or S,
11
take on special importance. Similar to the commentary for the
Moon reaching the maximum N or S declinations or crossing over
from one to the other, an inner planet or angle suggests changes in
the life according to its astrological symbolism.
The Sun, Mercury or Venus progressing to maximum N or S
take nearly 20 years to move into and away from the 1 degree
allowable orb for declination aspects, so their position would not
likely be noticeable as an event, but rather, a phase of life
dedicated to either developing career (maximum N) or tending the
needs of home and family (maximum S) in the nature of the
planet. Mars at maximum N or S takes much longer to move
around the curve into and then out of 1- degree orb, closer to 40
years. The inner planets may never reach an out-of-bounds
position during the lifetime, but almost certainly one or more will
make the long transition through a maximum N or S phase, and
that period will be remembered by the planetary significance as a
major life focus.
The planet or angle reaching maximum N or S has no
negative or positive connotation, only emphasis in life focus
according to the nature of the planet. However, close networks of
parallels and contra-parallels can, and do, compound the
importance of the period. For instance, people born in the early
1950’s have natal Uranus and Pluto parallel right at the out of
bounds point of 23 degrees 37 North. Those born near either
Solstice point (June 23rd or December 23rd) also have the Sun
parallel or contra-parallel Uranus and Pluto; and those born in
May – June or November - December of those years will
experience their progressed Sun declination not only moving to
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the normal focus of a planet at maximum N or S; but they will also
face the powerful impact of maintaining their identity and personal
integrity amidst seemingly overwhelming pressures by contact with
both Uranus and Pluto.
The same principles apply to any of the planets or angles
moving to maximum North or South, and further highlighted by
other parallels and contra-parallels. Again, the nature of the
planetary symbolism should guide you to interpret these important
contacts, keeping in mind their natal parallels and contra-parallels.
Interpreting Progressed Planets and Angles at Crossover
A planet or angle moving to declination crossover brings
more sudden changes because the planet or angle is generally in
fast motion taking only a year or two to move into and beyond the
1-degree orb for declination aspects. The only exception might be
if the progressed Mercury, Venus or Mars goes into a retrograde
period within a few weeks either way of the equinoxes (March 21st
or September 23rd) when their declination would be at or near
crossover.
A planetary crossover from N to S seems to have the effect of
an inner planet progressing to conjunct the natal Ascendant – it
often brings sudden awareness and personal expression of the
planetary qualities. A planetary crossover from S to N has more of
a Descendant expression – it brings developments in relationship
and focus on others in expression of the planetary qualities.
Depending upon other parallels the progressing planet makes near
the 0 degree declination crossover point, or the nature of the
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planet itself, the event can be either difficult or pleasant. Any
planet or angle moving to crossover is more likely to manifest in a
memorable event. For example, and assuming no other parallels
are made at crossover, Mercury moving to crossover signifies a
major shift in the thinking, even awakening mercurial sorts of
talents from writing to racing, from speaking to skilled technical
work. In a similar manner, combine the nature of the planet, with
the assumed angle activation (1st or 7th), and the parallel aspect
(conjunction) to arrive at the proper interpretation.
The Ascendant and Midheaven also progress in declination
and are subject to the same rules for interpretation. Ironically, the
progressed declination of the angles does move to maximum N or
S and crossover, points described in terms of angular house
influence rather than by planetary qualities. If no other planet is
within 1 degree to bring life to these angles in echo of each other,
interpret their influence in terms of their rulers. For instance, if the
progressed declination of the Ascendant is crossing over from S to
N a 7th house influence is suggested. Since Venus is the natural
ruler of the 7th house, issues of sociability, pleasure and romance
will be experienced on a deep personal level in ways such as selfbeautification, self-esteem and personal satisfaction, Ascendant
ruler expressions.
Progressed inner planets and angles contacting other
progressed positions do often signal an associated event related to
the symbolism of the planet involved. These are most notable in
the parallel aspects and should not be ignored in interpretation
work.
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Practice
Part A: To practice hand calculation, choose only one of
your study charts and calculate the natal declinations for each
planet plus the Midheaven and the Ascendant using the same
method to calculate the natal chart positions in earlier lessons.
Calculate to the degree and minute of North or South Declination.
If you have an ephemeris that gives the declination positions every
day, or more often every third day, then count forward one day
for a year to the age you were at the key event you have chosen to
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study. Use the Adjusted Calculation Date as the “virtual birthday”
and take the declination positions directly from the ephemeris. If
you do not have an ephemeris that gives the declinations daily or
every third day, skip to Part B of the practice.
Note that The American Ephemeris 2001-2010 (midnight)
lists the declinations daily.
In other ephemerides that list
declinations every third day, the movement from one date to the
next must be divided by 3 and then the calculated position added
for each year’s segment 1, 2, or 3 as the declination position for
the planet.
To find the declination for the Midheaven, Ascendant or
other points that sit directly on the ecliptic, take the declination of
the Sun when it is at that the same degree as the natal or
progressed MC or ASC and that position will be correct for the
point in question. For instance, if the ASC is 27 degrees of Aries,
then the declination of the Sun when it is at 27 Aries will equal the
declination of that 27 Aries Ascendant.
Part B: Now that you have practiced hand calculation of
declinations, use your computer and astrology software to create a
Lifetime Declination Graphic for each of your four study charts, or
charts you know well. The graph range should be set for 30
degrees, which includes both north and south from the 0 degree
crossover point. Select the period from birth to to the present age
so that the graph is not too crowded with lines. List the year of all
inner planet and angle out-of-bounds, crossovers, maximums N or
S, and planetary stations, as well as parallels to natal and
progressed planets.
List only the obvious contra-parallels,
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particularly where many planets are involved in a close parallel
network.
Select 2 key events in the life of each person and interpret all
of the active declination factors for that year. Provide the
astrological notations of declination contact for each event, as well
as commentary describing the connections between the
astrological indicators and what happened in real life.
Suggested Reading
Kt Boerher, Declination: The Other Dimension, Fortuna
Press, 1994.
Note, the commonly used American Ephemeris published by
Astro-Computing Service does not contain declination listings.
However, Raphael’s Ephemeris as well as the Rosicrucian
Ephemerides do. Of course all computer astrology programs
provide declinations in a variety of formats from natal listings to
graphic display of progressions.
Frequently Asked Questions
VM> In the directions for graphing the declinations with Solar
Fire, you said to enter 90 days. Should it be 90 years?
Carol Tebbs> That is a good question. Theoretically, 90 days
works if you selected “Transits” because one day of transit equals
one year of life, but you must also select “declinations” to arrive at
the same result. However, selecting “Progressions” is the best
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choice because that is actually what they are. Be sure to go to the
sub-menu under “Progressions” and select “declinations”. The
positions should be the same either way, and don’t forget to check
the box to add “natal lines” as well.
Carol Tebbs> The Moon sometimes goes out of bounds to 28+
degrees, so the 30 degree N and S grid will do fine.
RA> Is that the angle extent?
Carol Tebbs> It is degrees of declination that a planet can move
from the ecliptic. It is not 30 degrees as in the semi-sextile of the
12th harmonic aspects measured in longitude. I liken the graphic
displays of declination, progressions and transits to a moving
picture of the life, rather than the snapshot of the birth chart or the
progression for a given year.
Carol Tebbs> Basically, each time lines intersect with natal lines
and/or progressed lines of other planets, you should have a
corresponding event of the nature of the planetary influence.
When you have a convergence of many points or planets at once,
a major event is signaled. Be sure that you have selected the MC
and ASC as points to be charted along with the planets. They are
very helpful, and select “print natal lines” as well. Do not select
"background shading" because it makes the graphic too hard to
read.
If you all are still young and want to only do 45 or 50 years
of life graphic, that is fine. Do up to your present age, and only
interpret what has happened in the past. Don't try to go into the
future just yet. I want you to see the actual correspondence of
crossing lines with major life events and changes.
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MB> Carol, is there a way to change the colors on the graph? I
just printed one out and the yellow lines for Moon, Mercury and
Venus hardly show up at all.
Carol Tebbs> Can you print it out selecting only black?
Carol Tebbs> On the contra-parallels, they are harder to spot, so
only do those if they are obvious -- i.e. a cluster of planets
converging at 15 degrees north opposite another planet at 15
degrees south. For example in my natal chart I have a cluster of
planets at 20 - 21 degrees north, so when any of the moving lines
gets to 20 degrees north OR south, I know that combination will
be activated. Just do the obvious contra-parallels, and all of the
other crossings are pretty obvious, though I do draw in a
horizontal line in ink to mark the O degree equator.
I also begin every client consultation by discussing the
overview I get from the Life Declination Graphic. It is a good
segue into discussing the life pattern of the natal chart, and the
progressions and transits for the current year.
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