Reading this post recently, by the divine Demetra George, got me thinking about the beauty of the night sky.
One part of the Christian Christmas story recounts the journey of the three wise men, or magi, (aka astrologers amongst other things!) who followed a bright star to a bear witness at a joyous birth. True or not, it’s an uplifting tale about how the omens of the sky can provide light and guidance.
Gemini Full Moon
I got to thinking about our current sky, and what might act as a present day ‘Star of Wonder’. The recent Gemini full Moon must be one night time wonder worth mentioning. Is there anything more magical than witnessing the majesty of the Moon as she gains her fullness, and shares her light and wisdom?
Full Moon + Jupiter
But the heavens don’t stop there this December. Shortly after the full Moon, the Moon aligns with Jupiter, which will create a spectacular display. On the nights following the full Moon, you’ll see a bright twinkly star near the round disk of the Moon – Jupiter. Spot this in the eastern sky in the hours after sunset, or over head during the middle of the night (if you’re coming home late after a celebratory night out!).
In ‘Ancient Whispers from Chaldea’ Arthyr Chadbourne writes’ The Egyptians referred to Jupiter as the abundant provider when rising in the east’.
Jupiter’s steady path through the sky means he is associated with stability and strength.
Chadbourne also writes: ‘Jupiter transiting through Cancer during the winter solstice probably gave rise to the many other references to good fortune’, and ‘When the Sun sets in Capricorn , Jupiter would simultaneously rise. Such an event was held in reverence. Jupiter in Cancer was said to be in full exaltation during the deepest part of winter.’ This is the celestial phenom occurring at the current solstice.
Venus: Cosmic Bling + Retrograde Ahead
In addition to Jupiter’s extra beneficial energy, Venus also puts on a pretty display, as she shines brightly in the west just after sunset.
Venus starts her next retrograde this weekend, and will move backwards through Capricorn until the end of January. It may pay to delay major love or money resolutions until February, rather than the start of the calendar year.
Venus in station from December 15 – 29 (which occurs as Venus stops before turning retrograde and is not moving in any direction) may mean you too feel somewhat stuck or slowed down. Rather than fight this feeling, so if you can, embrace or go into it. Venus only retrogrades just once every 18 months, so you may benefit from a little down time under her station.
For more on Venus retrograde revisit these past posts – Venus Retrograde: Food for Thought and Venus, the Pentagram and Cycles of Love
Benefic Planets: Hot and Moist
Both Venus and Jupiter are considered benefic or fortuitous planets. This has something to do with their inherent qualities. Both are associated with the hot/moist temperament, which is considered favourable to growth. As both Venus and Jupiter shine their light into the night sky, there are good things brewing, even if you don’t see it yet.
How is your holiday season shaping up? Are you slowing down with Venus station, or attempting to shine brightly like Jupiter?