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Penumbral lunar eclipse @ 15 degrees Sagittarius 34’
June 5, 2020
12:13 PM PST
3:13 PM EST
This month's Full Moon is the first lunar eclipse of the 2020 eclipse season (and the first of three eclipses). As I wrote about last week, this triple eclipse season is an extended period of accelerated change. As often is the case during eclipses, events unfold more rapidly, and inner changes happen more readily. Eclipses also correlate with the amplification of developing events, taking things to a deeper and intensified dimension.
This lunar eclipse symbolizes a more dramatic culmination, breakthrough, crisis, or resolution involving ongoing, developing themes. In tropical Sagittarius, there is an atmosphere of expansion, despite Jupiter (the eclipse ruler) in Capricorn and conjunct Pluto. Yet, we cannot deny the imprint of the Saturn/Pluto conjunction on this lunation, a challenging period of structural disintegration and rebirth.
Jupiter's closeness to Pluto inflames cultural blindspots and toxic baggage relating to issues of power. In many ways, Jupiter transiting between Saturn and Pluto symbolizes collective hope and faith perceivably beleaguered. Despite the inherent optimistic thrust of Sagittarius, there can be a sense of futility moving through the archetypal field. Optimism can also give way to the Sagittarian underbelly--fanaticism and reckless audacity.
With the eclipse in opposition to Venus retrograde in Gemini, we are back to a place we've been before (though altered along the spiral). The Venusian fate weaver dredges up karmic residue in several relational dynamics, but it also opens our hearts to realities unfamiliar. Sagittarius, in its positive face, seeks foreign perspectives and holistic integration. Therefore, a new understanding can collect and solidify alongside this lunation, allowing comprehension of a differing point of view.
Perhaps that is the point of opening our hearts. Without diversity, our species would die. Yet, a heart-opening conversation or a desire to seek understanding can be either catalyzed or severed by volatile, emotional forces. Mars and Neptune in Pisces square the eclipse, creating a potentially violent break in the surface of events. Mars' approaching conjunction with Neptune, however, can obfuscate, dissipate, or misdirect the target. But it can also symbolize the emergence of a unified tsunami of anger, frustration, and fear, all struggling for communicative expression.
At heart, as astrologer Jason Holley (2019) suggests, the square "defeats the part of you that wants to be isolated and asks you to become relational." That wisdom feels deeply pertinent for the moment of this eclipse. While tensions can be inflamed, and rage can seep through the unconscious abyss, there is ultimately the desire to break through barriers that have kept us divided. With this eclipse, we can find the relational path-- authentic, soulful dialogue, and a strong assertion of boundaries.
Mars' approach to Neptune (exact June 13/14), can symbolize the warrior's energy motivated by strong ideals and unity. Perhaps it speaks to the uncomfortable truth that unity must sometimes be fought for. However, in Pisces' vast sea, the enormity and complexity of the enemy can seem overwhelming and evasive. Be mindful of your inner Mars, that is to say, your inner warrior. Listen to, open your heart to, but don't get lost in the sea of rage.
Sources
Holley, Jason. 2019. Psychologizing the Ancient Doctrine of Sect. Astrology University.