Eclipses

Do you realize that in ancient times, astrologers were beheaded for not alerting the emperors in advance about eclipses? Eclipses were taken as negative omens. It's true, they're not the greatest days for important new beginnings or advancing one's material affairs. On the other hand, there is really no need to make them into dreaded events. In fact, eclipses are wonderful for introspection, meditation, cleaning house, letting go of old baggage, quiet time or any other spiritual pursuit. The idea of paying attention to eclipses, or any astrological event for that matter, is simply to harmonize your action with the astrological weather.

Eclipses can be used on different levels as well. The most common way to use an eclipse in astrology is as an omen or sign portending global trends or events. Typically, because the eclipse is caused by a shadow passing across the Sun or the Moon, it is taken as an indication of negative events, suggesting problems for particular countries, leaders, or some aspect of world politics. On the other hand, eclipses can also be used for individuals. The astrological house in which the eclipse takes place will usually become sensitized for up to 6 months. If the eclipse falls near the same degree as a planet in the persons natal chart then it affects that planet and everything it symbolizes in the chart. If the eclipse falls on the persons natal Sun, Moon, Ascendant, or ruler of the Ascendant, then it will have a powerful effect.

In the course of the ordinary activities of day to day life, eclipses should be avoided for important new beginnings in material areas. If you are thinking about starting a business, getting married, approaching your boss for a promotion, or proposing to your girlfriend, then an eclipse is not the time to do it. On the other hand, if you are thinking about going camping, going on a retreat, starting psychotherapy, ending a relationship, quitting a job, cleaning house, or just spending some quiet time, then an eclipse can be a good time to start.

In the decision making process eclipses come in handy as well. If, for example, you find your dream house, or someone makes you a job offer at the time of an eclipse, it is generally a good idea to leave it. Things which you are presented with at this time are usually either short-lived or develop unforeseen problems later. If the thing that you are deciding is of an introspective or spiritual nature, however, then the eclipse might indicate a positive outcome.

The Nakshatra in which an eclipse falls will also give a clue to its effect on both nations and individuals. Generally, the nakshatra and whatever it symbolizes will be spoiled for the next six months after the eclipse. For this reason various remedial measures have been prescribed by the ancient Vedic Rishis in order to counteract the effect of an eclipse in each nakshatra. In India, it is common for people to fast for 10 hours before an eclipse and then perform a havan (fire ritual) in the middle of the eclipse. In the west, where Vedic pundits are more scarce, the recommended activity during an eclipse is meditation, or possibly the chanting of an appropriate mantra for the Nakshatra in which the eclipse is occurring. Please refer to the following notes of upcoming eclipses for appropriate mantras for specific eclipses.

Solar Partial Eclipse

November 24, 2011
11:09 pm PST
8 degrees 35 minutes  Scorpio
Anuradha Nakshatra

Anuradha Nakshatra is ruled by Mitra, the god of friendship. It’s shakti is the power of devotion. On a global political level this period may stimulate disharmony and conflict in various parts of the world. On a personal level the period of 3 days surrounding this eclipse is not good for social gatherings, communication, and activities that require positive and harmonious interaction between people. This date falls 2 days after Thanksgiving (for those in the USA). It will effect each person’s chart differently, so it is not negative for everyone.  If you normally attend a family family or social gathering at that time, the eclipse doesn’t have to spoil it, but a little extra awareness and patience can go a long way to promoting harmony . Bringing in a spiritual element to the gathering can also help.

On the positive side, this is a good time to do some inner reflecting and meditating on the quality of your relationships. Meditations on compassion, acceptance, forgiveness, and devotion are all good things to do at this time.

The mantra for this eclipse is Om Shri Anuradha Nakshatra Devataye Namah.

For a recording of all 27 nakshatra mantras click here.

Lunar Total Eclipse

December 10, 2011
7:36 am PST
24 degrees 09 minutes Taurus
Mrigashira Nakshatra

Mrigashira’s shakti is the power of fulfillment. Its deity is soma (the Moon). The period for 3 days on either side of the eclipse is a good time to avoid starting important new projects in general.  It is also specifically not good for the purchase of new clothing.  This eclipse may also have a generally negative effect on travel since it is related to roads and paths.  

As always, eclipses are great periods for extra meditation and reflection.

The mantra for the Eclipse is Om Shri Mrigashira Nakshatra Devataye Namah.

For a recording of all 27 nakshatra mantras click here.