Greybeard
18-09-2011, 11:31 AM
The conjunction is the simplest and most direct of the many possible configurations of planetary energies found in horoscopy. We will use this simplest of forms to demonstrate the complexity involved in horoscopic interpretation and the high sophistication in delineation possible through careful analysis of the many elements comprising planetary aspects.
Let’s take a triple conjunction as our example. We can use Moon, Mars and Neptune as example planets. The first consideration will be the order of the planets in relation to each other. In a configuration involving three planets there are six possible combinations:
Moon – Mars – Neptune
Moon – Neptune – Mars
Neptune – Mars – Moon
Neptune – Moon – Mars
Mars – Moon – Neptune
Mars – Neptune – Moon
The three planets each move through the zodiac at different velocities. Moon is very rapid with a mean velocity of just over 13 degrees per day, Mars moves along at between a half and three-quarters of a degree per day, and Neptune moves very slowly, taking about 14 years to traverse the 30 degrees of one sign. In addition to normal direct motion, we have the possibilities of swift or slow motion and retrograde motion as well, which will affect the expression and timing of events and conditions signified by the configuration. Because the timing of events in a person’s life (whether at a very young age, or sometime later) strongly influences the form and consequences of such events, this is no small matter.
Also affecting both the timing and strength of indicated events in the life is the distance between each of the three planets. A conjunction with Moon at 7 degrees of a sign, Mars at 8 and Neptune at 11 is not the same thing as one with Moon at 7, Mars at 12 and Neptune at 16. It is axiomatic in astrology that proximity of planetary energies increases intensity, on the one hand, and using the “one degree equals one year” formula, it is clear that the timing of events will vary as a function of arc between the planets.
In the first example (Moon – Mars – Neptune) it is clear that the Moon will overtake first Mars, then Neptune, coming into bodily contact with each. This conjunction is dynamic, active. In the third example (Neptune – Mars – Moon) the exact opposite situation prevails; the Moon moves quickly away from the conjunction, having already made its contacts and making no more. Mars also leaves Neptune behind, and so no further contacts occur between the three planets. This configuration indicates a more static and passive sort of condition. The same principle applies to planets connected by aspect rather than conjunction.
The sign occupied by the conjunction is also important. If we have the Moon-Mars-Neptune conjunction in Aries, Mars is in his dignity and can act freely in his own nature...immediate, impetuous, taking the lead or initiative, setting off on adventures...while the Moon is disadvantaged in that Fiery sign. But if the same conjunction is set in Taurus, Moon is exalted...the Mother likely provides solid sustenance, the emotional nature is well-grounded and steady...while Mars is disadvantaged.
These are only a few of the considerations we must take into account in the evaluation of the nature and power of any single element or complex of elements in a chart.
The conjunction essentially implies union. It brings direct action and intensity to the point in the horoscope where it is found. The aspect displays a one-pointedness and is self-absorbed or self-intent; where a conjunction is found, the person will act without regard for other people and their interests. The conjunction is a concentration of energies, acting cooperatively (how cooperatively depends on the planets involved.) The affairs of the houses ruled by the planets forming the conjunction are brought together at the place of the conjunction. The energies of the planets are expressed vigorously and persistently even in the face of great obstacles or external pressures, and the native is unwilling to make concessions or effect compromise at this point. The conjunction is essentially self-centered, and is both unaware of and unconcerned with the not-self. The native is self-motivated where the conjunction occurs and needs no external stimulus to action. The conjunction shows an unusual gift for refining skills or talents and denotes a unique personal characteristic.
As was mentioned above, and as is true for all aspects, the order of the planets in the zodiac and the orb separating them play important roles in proper delineation, as do the signs and houses containing them.
Let’s take a triple conjunction as our example. We can use Moon, Mars and Neptune as example planets. The first consideration will be the order of the planets in relation to each other. In a configuration involving three planets there are six possible combinations:
Moon – Mars – Neptune
Moon – Neptune – Mars
Neptune – Mars – Moon
Neptune – Moon – Mars
Mars – Moon – Neptune
Mars – Neptune – Moon
The three planets each move through the zodiac at different velocities. Moon is very rapid with a mean velocity of just over 13 degrees per day, Mars moves along at between a half and three-quarters of a degree per day, and Neptune moves very slowly, taking about 14 years to traverse the 30 degrees of one sign. In addition to normal direct motion, we have the possibilities of swift or slow motion and retrograde motion as well, which will affect the expression and timing of events and conditions signified by the configuration. Because the timing of events in a person’s life (whether at a very young age, or sometime later) strongly influences the form and consequences of such events, this is no small matter.
Also affecting both the timing and strength of indicated events in the life is the distance between each of the three planets. A conjunction with Moon at 7 degrees of a sign, Mars at 8 and Neptune at 11 is not the same thing as one with Moon at 7, Mars at 12 and Neptune at 16. It is axiomatic in astrology that proximity of planetary energies increases intensity, on the one hand, and using the “one degree equals one year” formula, it is clear that the timing of events will vary as a function of arc between the planets.
In the first example (Moon – Mars – Neptune) it is clear that the Moon will overtake first Mars, then Neptune, coming into bodily contact with each. This conjunction is dynamic, active. In the third example (Neptune – Mars – Moon) the exact opposite situation prevails; the Moon moves quickly away from the conjunction, having already made its contacts and making no more. Mars also leaves Neptune behind, and so no further contacts occur between the three planets. This configuration indicates a more static and passive sort of condition. The same principle applies to planets connected by aspect rather than conjunction.
The sign occupied by the conjunction is also important. If we have the Moon-Mars-Neptune conjunction in Aries, Mars is in his dignity and can act freely in his own nature...immediate, impetuous, taking the lead or initiative, setting off on adventures...while the Moon is disadvantaged in that Fiery sign. But if the same conjunction is set in Taurus, Moon is exalted...the Mother likely provides solid sustenance, the emotional nature is well-grounded and steady...while Mars is disadvantaged.
These are only a few of the considerations we must take into account in the evaluation of the nature and power of any single element or complex of elements in a chart.
The conjunction essentially implies union. It brings direct action and intensity to the point in the horoscope where it is found. The aspect displays a one-pointedness and is self-absorbed or self-intent; where a conjunction is found, the person will act without regard for other people and their interests. The conjunction is a concentration of energies, acting cooperatively (how cooperatively depends on the planets involved.) The affairs of the houses ruled by the planets forming the conjunction are brought together at the place of the conjunction. The energies of the planets are expressed vigorously and persistently even in the face of great obstacles or external pressures, and the native is unwilling to make concessions or effect compromise at this point. The conjunction is essentially self-centered, and is both unaware of and unconcerned with the not-self. The native is self-motivated where the conjunction occurs and needs no external stimulus to action. The conjunction shows an unusual gift for refining skills or talents and denotes a unique personal characteristic.
As was mentioned above, and as is true for all aspects, the order of the planets in the zodiac and the orb separating them play important roles in proper delineation, as do the signs and houses containing them.