Reviewing the Gems of Heritage Astrology
-
“The nature of the divine prefers to be hidden in diverse coverings; access to it should not be easy nor its majesty open to all.”
Firmicus Maternus – Matheseos 8:33
(Rhys Bram trans)A lot is going on in the sublunar experience, in the individual person, and in the astrological chart. What is interpretation? What is being done when analysing a full astrological picture? Learning and practicing astrology prompted William Lilly to declare
“Ars longa, vita brevis”
(“art is long, life is short”) – reflecting a centuries-old challenge of making sense from much information.No matter the level of experience, reading any chart asks to see a singular map with fresh eyes whilst consistently drawing on complex knowledge from ancient tradition. Aside from technical preliminary chart analysis, what could be foundational to ascertaining character? And where can a core understanding of the symbolism begin?
In aim of ‘doing astrology’, this Intensive will address a facet of delineation dealing with scoping out the factor of temperament.
-
Ancient reference to the soul is ‘psychological’ in essence and not solely about a nebulous spiritual entity as modern parlance tends to assume. In this case soul equates to mind in the broadest sense, what it may be, how it may function, and how it may contribute to the human character. In astrological tradition, Moon and Mercury were recognised as principal arbiters of the mental and emotional faculties, comprising an essential mind/soul interface upon which the individual personality took form.
Moon and the Mercury are the fastest moving bodies and those closest to earth in the Chaldean Order and in terms of the Soul’s Descent. They are most influential in stirring and moving things in the realm of matter, here on Earth. Even though they can be most adaptive and variable, they can become the basic significators of the soul on this plane – via character and mental disposition.
Understanding the astrological condition of both may shed light on how the complexity of the emotional/mental faculties work. These functions contribute enormously to the sense of self and an apprehension of the cosmos.
-
“… And as regards the most lordly kind of our soul, we must conceive of it in this wise: we declare that God has given to each of us, as his daemon, that kind of soul which is housed in the top of our body and which raises us …”
Plato – TimeausThe idea of a ‘guiding spirit’ or ‘daemon’, whether specifically within or without, harks back to ancient times and appears throughout history under various labels – such as genius, angel, character, higher self. The daemon principle is literally represented in astrology’s heritage in the traditional names of some houses, in the system of Hermetic lots, and in the Lord of the Geniture doctrine.
This Intensive will examine the profoundly fascinating idea of the Guiding Spirit as represented by a uniquely empowered planet in a birthchart (sometimes more than one), which is nominated as Lord of the Geniture. It is considered to provide clues to exclusive virtues that the native would do well to cultivate. By its nature, position, rulerships and receptions, it shows where one is likely to get the most out of the natal promise.
-
Having opened a Pandora’s Box that is the fascinating realm of Astrology, it is easy to become bewildered by the wealth of concepts and techniques which lie glittering at hand. There may be eagerness to impulsively grasp the first things which catch the eye and blurt out underdone interpretations, as if racing to beat a psychic clock. Being simply overwhelmed, fearful of failing, or appearing foolish, can also become stumbling blocks causing significant information to be overlooked. Best to pause for breath, gather the wits, and gently appraise the situation, allowing the symbolism to work while remaining receptive to potential meaning.
This Intensive is devoted to building upon the preliminary analysis of a chart’s astrological indications and putting former study into action. It will involve reviewing material already presented, drawing upon the variety of doctrine and applying this to a range of chart examples. Gaining an overall perspective and honing the focus on notable facets of a chart’s individual character are included in this exercise. As such information is best grasped before proceeding with evermore detailed topical analysis, or before attempting to predict the nature and timing of unfolding life events.