2023: Fourth Quarter

Perhaps the most significant feature of this period is a solar eclipse which takes place on 14 October. Solar eclipses are more common than might be supposed: every year there are at least two, occasionally more, but some seem more important than others. Their effects often last for many months. This one is closely aspected by Uranus in a way that suggests a mixture of tension and the need for adjustment. 

The eclipse takes place in Libra; Uranus is in Taurus, both signs ruled by Venus. It is resonant because of the current world conditions, and what it illustrates at a global level is the ‘juggling act’ that is having to go on between trying to help/please everyone (Libra) and the need for economic common sense (Taurus). In its way, it serves as a warning not to go to extremes, and is not to be ignored. The challenge is to blend perfectly the two qualities of caring and common sense. 

This applies at all levels: globally, internationally, nationally, in communities and families and in individual life. As I write, this eclipse is already being foreshadowed by events; at the end of September Mars will have passed over the degree in which the eclipse will fall, which will emphasise it further.

Meanwhile, the heavy planets move but little during this period, Saturn in particular, which wll be hovering in the early degrees of Pisces for several months before moving further forward in the early part of next year. It tends to a rather ‘wintry’ feel, whether it’s winter or not, and enjoins to ‘keep on keeping on’ in faith, however difficult things may be.

On New Year’s Eve, Jupiter, having been retrograde for several months, turns direct again, hopefully a good omen for the new year!

Simon Bentley, Head of Astrology