Throw moderation to the winds, and the greatest pleasures bring the greatest pains.
Democritus
The next New Moon, which falls on November 15th is placed in the last decan of Scorpio, beginning the next lunar cycle which will culminate in six months on the 27th April 2021. For this Lunar phase, I have chosen the card “Art” or “Temperance” as it is also known, from the upcoming deck “The Oracle of Change“. This card, which succeeds Death, and precedes The Devil in the Major Arcana sequence, is the center of calm that lies between these two notorious cards, bringing respite from life’s challenges, but also advocating moderation in all things. With its imagery rooted in the book of revelations, this card often depicts the figure of an angel, bearing a scroll, signifying the secret wisdom that is passed on to humanity from other realms, the knowledge necessary to temper destruction and to ensure the continuity of life in times of darkness. In The Oracle of Change, Aia Leu’s beautiful mixture of definitive and abstract imagery shows a beautiful depiction of the four elements, earth, air, water and fire in an arrangement that reminds me of a shaman’s shield. The idyllic scene in the background represents the longed for sense of serenity that comes when inner balance is attained. The mountain in the far background may be seen either as protection or the further challenge, of those who are on the spiritual journey.
Images of card ‘XIV. Art’ from the oracle of change
At this New Moon, take a moment to pause, to reflect, to look within. Scorpio is an intensely passionate sign, and always attempts to protect itself and those it is allied with. It is a strong contrast to the energy of the card that I chose , Art/Temperance, a skill that Scorpio could find difficult to master, being such a sign of extremes. One of the main lessons for Scorpio is that of flow, to allow the peaceful flow of the emotions. As one of the four fixed signs, Scorpio can be prone to stagnation, it is renowned for “holding on” long after others may have given up, and is consequently prone to stagnation and eventually, the poisoning the psyche by unexpressed emotions that it may fear are totally unacceptable to others. Fearing vulnerability above all else, the scorpion will kill itself if it feels overtly threatened and is forced into a corner from which it cannot escape. This month I am sharing “Healer” from the Quareia Magicians Deck, bringing the healing power of water into the intense Scorpionic energy of this November New Moon. In the secrecy of the dark of the moon, take time to release any “poisonous” emotions that you feel that you may still be holding onto. Take a saltwater bath perhaps, ground yourself in nature, take a windy walk , light a fire if you can; try to find a way to honour the four elements at this dark time of the year. Use the short days for introspection, for quiet, and for healing.
NEW MOON BLESSING:
The Quareia Magicians Deck
I am the power of the bursting seed, dancing in the beckoning void, ripe with limitless potentials. A kaleidoscope of outcomes seduces, invites and tempts you, but be still in the darkness of the Moon. Sense the power of her black womb, and wait. Trust that in the stillness that I, the right “seed” for now, will find you, a vision for your soul to nurture”
In Scorpio, I Desire: to give myself up to the perfect storm of passion and power. I am the yearning hunger of lust, of possession, of revenge, of sorrow and of pain. I am the highest of heights, I am the lowest of lows, all tempests are mine to behold and command. Drink from the peak of my exquisite pain; know both heaven and hell in my arms. ©JKG
The Astrologers Diary
The New Moon every month offers an opportunity to sow new seeds, and as an Astrologer, I find it to be a useful exercise for myself and in working with others, to use the energy of each particular New Moon, according to the Sabian Symbol that it falls on, together with the position in which it falls in the Natal Chart. Such considerations can be invaluable in steering through ups and downs, and in becoming “easy” with the ebb and flow of what life brings.
This particular New Moon falls in the 24th degree of Scorpio, which Dane Rudhyar describes as follows:
PHASE 234 (SCORPIO 24°): AFTER HAVING HEARD AN INSPIRED INDIVIDUAL DELIVER HIS “SERMON ON THE MOUNT,” CROWDS ARE RETURNING HOME.
KEYNOTE: The need to incorporate inspiring experiences and teachings into everyday living.
I love this image from the Sabian symbols, the need to incorporate what you have learned into everyday life; this is always such a challenge, well for me anyway, and really ties in with tarot card of this decan, The Seven of Cups. This particular card is often about finding the spiritual meaning in everyday life, rather than escaping into our favourite distractions of choice… we know all know what they are! This New Moon, again falls in my own 5th house, that of creativity, artistic projects, and children, where we express our “joy”. And it seems quite logical that I seem to have redecorated half the house since the last New Moon! (quite without intention I believe). My book/deck project, Thoth Journey-The Oracle of Change, is about to be sent to the printers in Italy, so the last few weeks have been really fraught with finalising all the text. I always find this time of year to be super productive, I believe it is because it is the time when the Sun is travelling through my 5th house of creativity.
My name is Joanna Grant, I am an Astrologer, Tarot Reader and Writer, who lives on the beautiful Beara Peninsula in the South West of Ireland. I can often be found at home, deep in arcane research, or practicing some new form of divination whilst burning the dinner! My children probably wish that I was “normal” but may well remember my eccentricities fondly when they come to face the challenges of their own paths. My long knowledge of Astrology leads and informs my practice, in offering guidance, empowerment and healing, helping others to lead a more authentic and magical life. You can read more about me here.
Joanna-Kate Grant 