Planetary Cycles

Overview of the Celestial Canopy

Winter Solstice   December 2007

As the planet Earth orbits around the Sun, there are two times of the year when the position of the sun seems to reverse direction. Because the earth is tilted on its axis, the entire planet responds in cycles called Seasons. Summer Solstice occurs when the sun appears most northerly over the Northern Hemisphere of the Earth against a part of the sky designated the Cancer Constellation of stars. In June of the present solar calendar, this is the time of the longest daylight in a 24 hour day. Winter Solstice occurs when the sun appears most southerly over the Southern Hemisphere of the Earth against a part of the sky designated the Capricorn Constellation of stars. Winter solstice in December is the time of shortest exposure of daylight in a 24 hour day. Such is the cycle of the Sun.

For thousands of years these two occasions have been celebrated by human beings to signify the return of food, prosperity and life. Because at Winter Solstice the Sun discontinues its apparent trek south and begins its return to the north, this is known as the end of its annual cycle, and the birth of a New Year.

In December of 2007, this annual cycle of the Sun occurs overlapping the lunar cycle at Full Moon. Every 28 days, the orbit of the Moon around the Earth places the earth between the Sun and Moon, so the view from earth at night shows the whole face of the Moon. This is referred to as an Opposition of sun and moon. Rarely does this occur at Solstice.

This year the Sun enters Capricorn the constellation of worldly manifestation, on the 22nd of the month, and Full Moon occurs a few hours later on the 23rd in Cancer, the sign in which it is most potent.

What is also highly significant at this particular Winter Solstice is that many planets in the solar system are also aligned when viewed from the planet Earth. It has been over 2000 years since such a thing occurred. From time to time the orbits of planets and moon or sun overlap in what is referred to as a Conjunction. Not so frequently, more than two planets appear to 'converge' simultaneously in a multiple conjunction.

On the 23rd of December Mars is conjunct the Moon in the constellation Cancer so closely it is 'occulted', or nearly hidden from view. Also occurring on the 23rd in the opposite direction of the sky, the planets Mercury, Jupiter and Pluto are in conjunction with the Sun between Sagittarius and Capricorn constellations.

Graphically translated as these bodies appear; Mars is at one end of a powerful cord of subtle magnetic energy with the Moon, Earth, Sun, Mercury, and Jupiter strung like beads on a string with Pluto at the other end. The convergence and combination of powers amplify each and together become exponentially more than the sum of the parts.

Because of the masses and energies involved in the solar system, the impact of this extraordinary event can be expected to influence life forms including human beings on earth for years to come.

In contemplation: The significance of this phenomenon, can be visualized over time to balance the self-destructive mental tendencies in the collective human population on earth, as Mars warlike activity is grounded by the metaphysical dominance of Pluto.

Vernal Equinox 2008

In many cultures around the planet, the Vernal Equinox symbolizes new life. The return to life after the dormancy of the winter months is seen in the growing cycles of plants, crops, and livestock. The Agrarian societies have long celebrated this time when the day and the night equally share the 24 hour day of the earth.

This transition between winter and summer in the northern hemisphere occurs as the northern polar planetary axis of the earth begins to tilt towards the sun on its elliptical orbit around the Sun. At both equinoxes, Vernal and Autumnal, the Sun appears directly over the Equator of Earth, therefore spending equal amounts of time in both hemispheres during a 24 hour cycle; 12 hours of daylight and 12 hours of darkness.

Over ages of time, religions have incorporated this important time of renewal into the doctrines of faith for the populace. Ancient cultures existing today, including the Hopi celebrate this time with prayers and festivals. Purim, Passover, Easter, all are celebrated in relationship with the Vernal Equinox, traditional planting, lunar cycles and associated historic events. Many of these last for days.

For several thousands of years, the star constellation Aries has been the backdrop for the Sun to appear on the first day of Spring. This year, 2008, the Vernal Equinox or when the Sun enters Aries, will begin late on the 19th of March and progress around the globe during the early hours of the 20th.

Prayers for World Peace are traditionally made around the globe at this time. People of all religions and ideologies gather together to share in these expressions of gratitude and harmony among the peoples of the Earth. Global participation on an intentional level has been influential in the progress of spiritual evolution over time. We ask that all people who are inclined, join with others in prayer during this period. Some groups are selecting 8 PM local time on the 20th 21st and 22nd of March.

The Solstices and Equinoxes are designated by the seasons as they have occurred for thousands of years. They are landmarks in the cycles of life on Planet Earth and for that reason human beings have always acknowledged these changes of seasons. Each brings particular bountiful gifts bestowed by the planet, which can be harvested and continue the prosperity of humans. Without these cycles of renewal and bestowal, crops, fish and animals would cease to exist and so would the human population which relies on these for nourishment, shelter, and apparel. Other dates for gatherings and Prayers for Peace are Summer Solstice when the Sun enters the constellation Cancer, the 20th of June, Autumn Equinox when the Sun enters Libra the 22nd of September, and December 21st, Winter Solstice when the Sun enters the constellation Capricorn.

The differences in cultural and religious expressions on the planet at this time have caused confusion as to the divine purpose for souls to be on Planet Earth. Nationality and loyalty to specific spiritual leaders have distorted the intention of the concept of Universality, or All One Humanity which is the reality.

The spiritual evolution of individuals and the collective is dependent upon realization of this truth. In each person is the potential for Tolerance, Love, and Compassion. The act of praying for ones own ability to comprehend this responsibility intentionally is the foundation for growth in the Light. Prayers must then be acted out through manifested behavior for the soul to evolve. That is the reason for investment into a physical body on this plane. Without this opportunity, the soul could not develop these skills through experience. This is required as a stage of development in the journey of the soul.

To make the connection between prayers of peace, and the living present on the Earth, it is recommended that focus of intention on particular areas which are currently in need, be included at the Vernal Equinox gatherings. Tibet which has suffered occupation by the military Chinese for over 50 years is one such place. Another is Iraq where the civilian population has suffered military aggression by the United States of America which could have been directed specifically to terrorist organizations worldwide. There are other situations which are worthy to be included in prayer, and the selection of focus, as the style of gathering, are of free will choice.

Simple offerings, lighting candles, gathering with family and friends, feasting, and making prayers for peace are all typically associated with the Vernal Equinox celebration. Choose your manner of participation and take the time to reflect on all these wondrous matters. The expression of gratitude for blessings bestowed as the precious cycles of the earth replenish us is ancient. The compassionate recognition of those less fortunate and prayers for release from hardship is appropriate this Vernal Equinox season. Many faiths have rituals which include prayers for this occasion. Other prayers Suggested:

The Great Invocation

From the point of Light within the Mind of God let light
stream forth into the minds of men. Let Light descend on Earth.

From the point of Love within the Heart of God, Let love stream
into the hearts of men. May Christ return to Earth.

From the centre where the Will of God is known let purpose
guide the little wills of men —the purpose which the Masters
know and serve.

From the centre which we call the race of men let the Plan of Love
and Light work out. And may it seal the door where evil dwells.

Let Light and Love and Power restore the Plan on Earth.

Universal Prayer for Peace

We call upon the Light of the Father to cast out all agents of chaos.
We call upon the Love of the Mother to heal all anger and fear.

We call upon the Powers of Light to unite the nations of the World.
We call upon the Forces of Light to restore balance on Earth.

We call upon all Children of Light to come forward in the work for Peace.
Light, Love, Unity, Balance, Peace —So let it be for Eternity.

Summer Solstice   June, 2008

In ancient times the Egyptians designated the Scarab beetle, the symbol of Eternal Life as the constellation which is the area of the celestial sphere the Sun enters in the third week of the month of June. The winged, black beetle of the Lamellicornia Family is the head of the insect kingdom and considered the Keeper of the Sun. Just as the Scarab guides the Sun across the sky each day, it also maintains the annual cycle, or return of the Sun into perpetuity. The planet Earth's rotation around the sun expresses a return of Life in Abundance at this time. This is the Summer Solstice.

Later the Crab replaced the Scarab as the backdrop constellation for the Sun's return to its zenith in the sky at mid-summer. It is here that the sun appears to 'walk backwards' because after this point, each day it rises lower on the horizon as the progression of the year continues and it descends the zodiacal arc. Cancer is the sign of generation and in astrological symbolism is ruled by the Moon, which is linked with the life forces of Nature through its power over the tides of the ocean. The Earth is most abundant during this cycle of growth and fertility, and the Maternal Principle is celebrated at this time of year. Gaia, the Earth Mother is most generous in her unconditional Love expressed through the fruitfulness of lifeforms as gifts to sustain all creatures.

Shakespeare illustrates the classic celebration of the mid-summer in his play A Midsummer Night's Dream using Greco-Roman icons and Nature Spirits as characters interacting with humans in a lighthearted and enchanted depiction of Love. The King of the Fairies enjoins players and audience alike in parting:

In all cultures, the Summer Solstice has been a time of gaiety and gratitude for blessings bestowed since time immemorial. It is heralded as the Longest Day of the Year. Midsummer's Eve is the shortest night in which bonfires, lanterns, dancing and feasting are part of the festivities. Frequently marriages take place on or around this day for the blessings of fertility. In the Celtic tradition the Summer Solstice marks the mid point of the Big Sun season, starting at La Baal Tinne and ending at Lammas.

Hebrews celebrate Shabhu'oth or Shavuot meaning Feast of Weeks which occurs close to Midsummer and in ancient times was a celebration of the Spring Harvest. Throughout the Mediterranean and Middle East this was a most important annual festival. The early Christians continued to revere this season as a time when the Holy Spirit descends upon believers. Metaphorically, this represents the involution of Spirit into material form. Starting at Pentecost and continuing through Summer Solstice individuals commit to belief in Christ and his message of Eternal Life through a ceremonial baptism in water. This signifies the rebirth of Spirit through the Mother, or matter. In the western hemisphere in Incan and north American cultures celebrations with feasting continue for days and nights to honor the Sun God, successful hunting and the gathering of foods. Throughout the Orient, Summer Solstice is a major holiday wherever an agrarian culture thrives.

In the physical astronomical solar system, the changing of seasons is caused by the Earth's tilt on its axis as it obits around the sun. The north-south axis is an imaginary straight line through the planet around which the earth revolves each day. The axis of the earth is tilted at 23½° off perfect vertical alignment with reference to the sun as the origin of light. This fact and the spherical form of the globe are two factors creating the variation in seasons.

Solstices occur midway between the Equinoxes throughout each solar year. Each day the earth spins completely on its axis the sun's rays are most concentrated when they strike the earth's surface vertically. Depending on the tilt of the axis, either the North Pole tilts toward the sunlight or away from the sun. The rays of the sun are more concentrated either below the earth's equator in the Southern Hemisphere, or above the earth's equator in the Northern Hemisphere. Summer Solstice is celebrated by the human population living north of the earth's equator when the sun's apparent path north reaches the Tropic of Cancer in the northern hemisphere. At Summer Solstice in the Northern Hemisphere, the sun's rays strike most directly at latitude 23½° north of the equator named the Tropic of Cancer,

On the Summer Solstice in the Southern Hemisphere the sun's rays strike most directly at latitude 23½° below the earth's equator named the Tropic of Capricorn. As the earth orbits around the sun in an annual trek, summer occurs when the respective pole is tilted toward the sun. Simultaneously, winter occurs in the opposite hemisphere as that pole is tilted away from the Sun.

If the earth's axis were perpendicular to the light rays of the sun, there would be no seasons. Each degree of latitude on the earth would experience the same sort of weather phenomena all year long. Two factors combine to make summer days warmer than winter ones: There are more hours of daylight each day, and the sun's rays are more direct at that location. The concept of latitudes and longitudes is a system of measurement for the purpose of mapping locations on the earth relying on the sun's travels through the skies relative to the planet.

For long cycles of time, the background constellations appear constant in the annual rotation of the earth around the sun. Summer Solstice takes place as the Sun enters the section of the sky designated as the constellation of Cancer. In 2008 this happens on the 20th of June. Venus is conjunct the Sun in Cancer and is therefore not visible during the long hours of daylight. The Full Moon occurs on June 18th with Jupiter in the constellation of Capricorn, in the opposite part of the sky.

The solar system planets in transit relative to each other
and stellar constellations as observed from Earth
June 18-21, 2008 c.e. Earthtime

On June 20th Summer Solstice, the conjunction of Moon and Jupiter will be a spectacular sight over the Pacific Ocean. For several weeks before and after this occasion, the night skies will be exciting to watch as this mating dance between these two luminaries takes place and the Moon appears to pass by the more distant Jupiter. To many people sensitive to the energies between planetary bodies in our solar system this has a special significance. The beneficent prosperity of Jupiter combined with the fertility of the Moon suggests this solstice is an auspicious time in personal and financial relationships.

During this time of Full Moon from June 18th and through June 20th the Summer Solstice the configuration of the planet Venus conjunct the Sun is in opposition to Jupiter conjunct the Moon. The roles of male and female energies are positioned in an extraordinary and complimentary balance of duality. The Earth is placed in between these bodies for a maximum harmonic effect night and day, which should be celebrated. The subtle energies of planets and luminaries have always been acknowledged in the cycles of earthly existence, and appreciated for their beauty and power to affect all living things.

The concept that humans should interact with the cycles of time and the changes of the seasons is an ancient one which has sustained populations throughout generations. To mark specific days of the year as Holy Days when special attention and gratitude should be expressed is part of the spiritual legacy of our progenitors, thus linking human beings with the cosmos and the Creator. The Summer Solstice is a time of appreciation for the gift of Life on Earth with all the sensual pleasures and bounty this orb has to offer. What beauty there is in this dance of the cosmos!

HAPPY CELEBRATION

Autumnal Equinox:   September, 2008

As the seasons turn day by day and summer slips into autumn in the Northern Hemisphere, the Sun appears to cross over the earth's equator on its journey southward. Daylight and nighttime share equally the 24 hours of the day with 12 hours of each all over the globe. Equinox means 'equal night'. At the vernal equinox the same thing happens only in reverse, as the Sun appears to travel northward. And so, year after year, century after century as the planet Earth follows its orbit around the Sun, spinning on its axis of rotation in these timeless cycles, the seasons change.

Many exciting relationships are occurring among the planets of the solar system this autumn around the equinox. Early in September, many of the planets have already gathered in Libra to welcome the Sun. Mercury, Venus and Mars are clustered together in the constellation of Libra and remain in varying degrees of conjunction from September 6th through the 23rd when Venus dances ahead leaving the others behind. At Equinox, on the 22nd, the Sun leaves the last degrees of the constellation Virgo and enters Libra to join these planets. All this happens during daylight hours and as the sun is close-by, can not be easily observed.

Meanwhile in the opposite part of the sky in the constellation Pisces, the glorious full moon rises on the 15th of September. The autumn full moon closest to the Equinox is called the Harvest Moon because the moon rises above the eastern horizon just as the sun is setting in the west, providing extended hours of light. This time has always been used by human beings to complete the harvesting of crops before the weather changes. From this day on, the days become shorter and the sun's rays are less strong in the northern hemisphere.

In ancient days the food would be divided among families and members of the community or stored in a safe place for the dry, cold winter when no food could be grown. This is a time of preparation; gathering crops, repairing tools and homes, and collecting wondering herds left to graze all summer. In most cultures, the Autumn Equinox is celebrated especially if the harvest is good. And if not, the elders plan how best to survive the days ahead until the spring comes and a new growing season can begin.

Interestingly this year, the solar equinox occurs as the lunar cycle begins its third quarter on the 22nd marking the halfway point between the full moon on September 15th and the new moon on the 29th. This is a perfect symbolic reflection of the time of the year; as typically the third quarter of the moon signifies a time for trimming away no longer needed materials and organizing what is kept for the future.

If we choose to accept the concept of subtle energies in relationships we see in the planets of the solar system, we can be more attuned to events and attitudes in our lives. Recognizing Libra as the zodiac sign of the Balance or Scales, we understand that at harvest time, bartering, and selling crops and livestock is a natural preoccupation at this time of year. Hence symbolic of these seasonal transactions the Sun is perceived to enter the heavenly constellation of Libra denoting fairness in business transactions and relationships.

That the planets Mercury, Venus, and Mars are also in Libra bring an emphasis to the characteristics of good conversation and friendship, perhaps even romance in the afterglow of summer. Jupiter and Saturn are in harmony in a trine aspect suggesting prosperity through preparation for more serious times; a subtle overtone this season. Each of us can use these energies to our benefit and well being by being attuned to what are natural responses in the cycles of time.

Many people enjoy the season of change, hiking by day as the weather is pleasant and autumn begins. The evenings are still warm and the stars are bright. Get outside with family and friends to find stars and constellations. See how lucky we are to be on this beautiful Earth!

Winter Solstice   December 2008

The Winter Solstice signifies a closure or end of the annual passage of time, and simultaneously the beginning of a new year. Recognition of the 'return of cycles' has long been important to the human population on planet earth. This annual cycle is that of the earth relative to the Sun, which the ancients perceived as the Solar year. The other bodies in the solar system each have their own cycles which create interesting variations from year to year and century to century.

Teachers from ages past would observe the night skies and record happenings on earth that coincided with what they saw in the sky as a way of understanding our place in the cosmos and our relationship with luminaries closest to the earth which effect the life cycles here. One such notable event was the bright nova or exploding star that became visible several years before Jesus of Nazareth was born. Men of great learning from Babylonia, Persia, and Ethiopia interpreted this new light in the sky as a portent to great changes in the state of men. The celestial event is also recorded in Chinese and western hemisphere documents of the time.

What is documented historically, is that at the time, the Mediterranean area was in a state of complete turmoil and chaos as groups warred with groups, refugees were relocated or annihilated, and death by famine and disease were common. This cycle of destruction might have been alleviated if people in positions of authority had taken the advice of wise men. The celestial occurrence could have been seen as a moment of opportunity to change priorities and to work towards peace and equality. Great holy men have continued to teach these ideals down through the ages.

An ancient school of thought called astrology teaches that some years may seem more tumultuous than others because of the influence of solar system planetary bodies and celestial subtle energies striking the planet earth. The purpose of recording cycles in the heavens is in part to prepare for hard times before becoming devastated by them. In modern times, scientists record solar flares and radical explosions on the sun which are then correlated to the cycles of warlike activities of the human population and environmental changes.

So we bring to a close 2008 c.e. which has been globally as intense a twelve month cycle as predicted. The significance of a moment in time takes on a whole new perspective when personal experience is seen relative to what others are experiencing in the same cycle of time. Throughout the year we have noted aspects among the planetary bodies and luminaries in the solar system. For the American people, the opposition between Saturn (structure and status quo) and Uranus (revolutionary change) which occurred on November 4th, election day, marks a significant change in how equality and discrimination are perceived. This national election of monumental importance culminated most dramatically and blessedly, peacefully.

The end of November and beginning of December has been a time of a series of multiple conjunctions as the Moon came into First Quarter Phase and passed by the planets clustered in Sagittarius and Capricorn Constellations. The 1st of December the crescent Moon appeared close to Jupiter and Venus at twilight, a romantic image before setting in the west. The annual cycle of rotation of Jupiter around the Sun is 11.86 earth years. As the orbit of Venus around the Sun is 243 earth days, this apparent proximity does not occur every year in the same part of the sky during the same season. The sight was a gift of beauty and hope after the tension of so many previous months.

The Sun is also transiting Sagittarius and Capricorn at this time of year, causing a dynamic particular to the year 2008. On the 21st of December, the Sun moves into the constellation Capricorn bringing its annual journey to a close at Winter Solstice. The planets Mercury and Mars will remain close to the Sun and continue to be invisible during the daylight hours.

On physical and metaphysical levels the dominant occurrence is the conjunction of the Sun at Solstice with the planet Pluto, as from our perspective on Earth, they both enter the constellation of Capricorn simultaneously. According to astrological sources, Capricorn is considered an Earth Sign. In classic science, there are four basic elements; earth, water, fire and air. The qualities of each element alter the expression of energies aligned with any specific sign of the zodiac, which reflects existing planetary and celestial relationships and happenings on Earth. That after 13 years in a sign of fire, Sagittarius, Pluto is entering Capricorn, a sign of earth on Solstice with the Sun, is perceived as highly significant.

Although Pluto's existence was predicted in the late 1800's through observations of the irregularities of the obits of Uranus and Neptune, actual confirmation is granted to the Harvard Observatory in 1919 and more completely verified by the Lowell Observatory in 1930. The suggested premise is that Pluto is an escaped satellite of Neptune. There is later evidence that Pluto is in a synchronized orbit with a moon more than a fourth its own size and therefore could be categorized as a double planet. This partner is currently named Charon. (A similar relationship occurs between Earth and its Moon although the ratio in mass is substantially different.) That Pluto and Charon are revolving around one another may contribute to the extended duration time it takes to orbit the Sun. Pluto entered Sagittarius in January 1995 and for 13 earth years has remained in that area of the sky. The projection with current data is that Pluto will travel through Capricorn, hovering there until March 2023 when it will pass on to Aquarius.

In ancient times through observation for thousands of years, five major planets in this system were recognized and charted as they traveled through the stars. In 1761, Sir John Herschel found Uranus, and in 1846 Neptune was identified by the calculations of Adams and Leverrier. This does not mean they were not a part of the solar system before that time. Subtle energies from these planetary bodies have been effecting the other planets and perhaps even patterns on Earth for eons of time.

Hanukkah begins on the 22nd of December in accordance with Hebrew law, relative to lunar cycles. This date is punctuated by also being the height of the Ursids Meteor Shower which occurs between the 17th and 24th. As the Earth passes through this local area of space annually, the Ursids is one of several noted principle meteor showers making this season an exciting time to watch night skies.

Venus and Neptune are conjunct on December 27th and although Neptune is invisible to the eye, we can imagine its being close to the brilliant Venus in the constellation Aquarius. The aspects between planets through the signs of the zodiac have always been open to interpretation and influence on human behavior. Astrologers specialize in these possible translations.

As we pause to catch our breath and regain our balance individually and collectively around the planet, let us evaluate the challenges we have faced and what we have accomplished in our own lives this year past. They may include health, loss, finances, abrupt changes in lifestyles and relationships. This Winter Solstice is a time of reflection on the previous 12 months and a projection of potentials into the future. Hopefully we are stronger and more prepared for a new year. Take the time to share with friends the gaiety of the season along with the deep meaning of memories.

In the coming years Pluto and its partner Charon will be prominent especially this time of year with its mystery and magnetism. As the planet farthest from the Sun, it is on the doorstep to outer space and new adventures in the 21st century on Earth.

BLESSINGS AND HAPPY HOLIDAYS