As Christians all over the world prepare to celebrate their most important festival of the year, I thought it might be interesting to take a look at the dominant symbol of Christmas from an astrological perspective - the Christmas Tree.
Long before Christianity, evergreen plants and trees had a special meaning during winter. Just as people today decorate their homes during the festive season with pine, spruce, and fir trees, people of the past hung evergreen boughs over their doors and windows. In many countries it was believed that evergreens would keep away witches, ghosts, evil spirits, and illness.
In the Northern hemisphere, the shortest day - and longest night - of the year falls on December 21st/22nd and is called the Winter Solstice. In ancient times it was believed that the Sun was a god and that winter came every year because the Sun God had become weak. They celebrated the solstice because it meant that at last the sun god would begin to get well. Evergreen plants symbolised hope and the eternal life force which would bring new growth when the Sun God was strong again.
The ancient Romans marked the Winter Solstice with a feast called Saturnalia in honour of Saturn, the god of agriculture. Interestingly, the Winter Solstice happens when the Sun enters Capricorn - the sign ruled by Saturn.To celebrate the occasion, they decorated their homes and temples with evergreen branches. In Northern Europe the Druids, priests of the ancient Celts, also decorated their temples with evergreen boughs as a symbol of everlasting life.
The Christmas tree tradition as we now know it began in the 16th century when devout Christians brought decorated trees into their homes. Some built pyramids of wood and decorated them with evergreens and candles. It is a widely held belief that Martin Luther, the 16th-century Protestant reformer, first added lighted candles to a tree after walking home one winter evening and being inspired by the brilliance of the stars twinkling amongst the evergreen trees.
The Christmas Tree is an amalgam of many cultures and religious beliefs. Interestingly, there are no actual symbols of Christianity on a traditional Christmas Tree - unless you place an angel on the top to represent the messenger of God who announced the birth of Jesus. A star at the pinnacle of a Christmas Tree is said to be the Star Of Bethlehem - but even now, in the 21st century no-one can say for sure what the Star of Bethlehem actually was. A comet? A supernova? Perhaps a conjunction of the two 'kingmaker' planets Jupiter and Saturn? Good theory, except for the fact that Jupiter Saturn conjunctions happen every 20 years - so why would that one over 2,000 years ago have been particularly relevant? One thing is certain. The Three Wise Men - who were astrologers called The Magi - knew that what they were looking at was something very special.
Most of what we do at Christmas is not a Christian tradition but something which has its origins in nature and astrology. A Christmas tree is a Pagan symbol, the lights are stars, the baubles are planets, and the star at the top probably represents the Solstice Sun.
Merry Christmas 🎄
SYNASTRY
Harry and Meghan's synastry (comparing both natal charts to each other) is outstanding. They have the astrological hallmarks of a very strong relationship. If you are a regular visitor to this blog, you'll have read my comments about Polarity. This combination is present in over 80% of committed partnerships and it occurs when one partner's Sun, Moon, or Ascendant is directly opposite the other partner's Sun, Moon, or Ascendant. Harry's natal Ascendant is in the sign of Capricorn and Meghan's natal Ascendant is in Cancer. Although their Ascendants are not opposite by degree, they do have Rising Sign Polarity.
Another indicator of a solid, stable and committed partnership is Saturn in one person's chart forming an aspect to the Sun, Moon, or Venus in the other's. Once again, this is present in the synastry of Harry and Meghan with his natal Saturn in a square aspect to her natal Sun, as well as in a positive sextile to her Venus.
Harry's natal Sun and Moon are both trine Meghan's natal Descendant (the point of partnerships) creating a beautifully balanced connection between them which is likely to have had a very powerful impact. Not only a strong physical attraction but also a very powerful emotional bond. Deja Vu is a common experience with the Moon in one chart aspecting the other's Descendant, so when these two met for the very first time, it's highly likely that they felt they already knew each other. They definitely 'hit the ground running' with this relationship! No second thoughts, no doubts.
With Harry's Venus conjunct Meghan's Pluto there is a lot of passion between them. There will be intense feelings of love, perhaps tinged with obsession, resentment or jealousy. But, nevertheless, a dynamic, dramatic, and loyal union. Harry's natal Mars in a positive sextile aspect to Meghan's Pluto shows that working with each other will enhance their personal lives. These two have great confidence and courage, and together they will achieve some remarkable feats.
Mars in Harry's natal chart is in a positive trine to Meghan's natal Sun. This indicates that she feels energised by him and he felt compelled to pursue a relationship with her. With Harry's natal Mars square Meghan's natal Venus there is phenomenal chemistry between them. The magnetism pulling these two together must have been impossible to resist. Harry's natal Ascendant is opposite Meghan's Mars and this influence produces a very powerful physical attraction to one another. This couple are hot stuff!
Harry's natal Uranus makes more aspects to Meghan's chart than any other planet with no fewer than seven connections to her Sun, Moon, Jupiter, Saturn, Mercury, Vertex, and Midheaven. In synastry, Uranus in aspect to the Sun brings 'love-at-first-sight' and a sudden, magnetic attraction. In their first television interview, Harry said that he knew Meghan was 'the one' from the very first time they met. Uranus aspecting the Moon supercharges the emotions in a very exciting way! You can almost feel the electricity between them.
Harry's Uranus in a trine to Meghan's Mercury indicates a strong mental rapport with many shared interests. His Uranus is also conjunct her Vertex - an indication that their first meeting was a fated encounter which will change their lives forever. Harry's Uranus in a positive trine to Meghan's Midheaven shows greater independence through mutual support for each other. Setting up new ventures together and humanitarian work will be extremely important to both of them.
Harry's Pluto is in a square aspect to Meghan's Nodes. With this aspect between their charts this couple will alter each other's lives in a big way. This is a traditional symbol of star-crossed lovers' and in synastry indicates an instant feeling of familiarity and attraction to one another. It would have been very difficult for them not to begin a relationship. It was meant to be.
Comedian, musician and actor Billy Connolly - and as from 31st October 2017 Sir William Connolly - was born on Tuesday 24th November 1942 at 4:30 am in Glasgow, Scotland, UK.
It comes as no surprise that Billy is a Sagittarian as this is very much the sign of optimism and having a positive outlook on life. This is also the sign of philosophy which sums up very accurately his own particular style of comedy. When he hit the big time, comedians stood in front of an audience and reeled off a succession of jokes. Not Billy. He used observational humour to really connect with his audience. This put him ahead of the game professionally, and to this day, new comedy acts still aspire to be like him. Billy's great gift is the ability to laugh at himself and in turn to make us laugh at ourselves too. Through his own experience he can shine a light on the absurdity of life. Sagittarius is the sign of adventure, exploration, and going beyond boundaries. Billy has certainly achieved that.
Billy's natal Sun makes several aspects to other planets in his chart. The Sun in conjunction to Mercury and Venus shows his independent thinking. He is a very intelligent man, mentally alert, talkative, and forthright with his opinions. All done with humour - which is why people actually listen to him - and it's the reason for his popularity. The Sun is in an opposition aspect to Uranus which indicates rebellion and anarchy. This was certainly true in his younger years when he shocked people with his radical views on life as well as his 'colourful' language. This planetary combination brings a tendency to question tradition and authority which is probably why Billy hates politics and does not trust politicians. He has probably always felt like he didn't fit in with the rules and structures of society. Billy has an intense dislike for superficiality and pretentiousness. He speaks with honesty and expects it in return.
With his natal Moon in the sign of Gemini Billy is witty and charming. He is always interesting company, naturally curious and in tune with what's happening in the world. Reading, talking and thinking more than the average person, he is a consummate communicator. With the Moon in sector nine of his chart, Billy is interested in other people, countries, cultures and travelling - all of which enable him to understand and identify with many different types of people. He has a craving for things he has never experienced before and needs to completely immerse himself in the atmosphere and environment of a new place.
People are often surprised that Billy's rising sign is Libra. But think about it...... Everybody seems to like Libra Ascendant people.and even those who don't like Billy's stage performances are always enchanted by him in reality. He is a lovely, charming, pleasant man with an easygoing manner, so much so, that people who don't even know who he is go away singing his praises after they meet him. The Hippy/Flower Power Era, of which Billy was a part, is indicated in astrology by the sign of Libra - in particular Neptune in Libra. This is also in his chart.
Natal Mercury in the sign of Scorpio indicates that Billy is quite possibly on an eternal quest to get to the truth. Totally fearless when it comes to delving into what nobody else wants to talk, or even think about, he will happily explore. Blessed with exceptional observation skills, he will get to the core of everything. Passionate in his speech, sometimes to the point of lecturing, his judgement is second to none. Billy's intelligence is absolutely instinctive and it would be very hard to win an argument or debate with him. It is impossible to deny that his thinking is really logical and the energy in his performances produces both impassioned speech and much respect. His take on people often has to do with motivations - he has an insatiable interest in what makes people tick.
With his natal Mercury in a positive trine to Jupiter, Billy is excellent at seeing the big picture, drawing conclusions, problem solving, and making accurate assessments. He loves to learn, and is good at absorbing information. He is very at ease conversing with people from all walks of life. Tolerant, generous and optimistic, he always sees the positive side of situations and is very respectful of the traditions and opinions of others.
Billy's natal Venus in Sagittarius brings smiles, laughs, jokes, and an amicable nature. With an open mind, he is attracted to people who share his love of life. He wants people to join in debates and discussions without taking offence. He hates - and is the antithesis of - 'Political Correctness'. Venus in opposition to Uranus shows that he has a strong attraction to anything that is different, and his taste in clothing and art is unusual, original, and unique. Who else could think banana boots were a good idea? In public and in private Billy loves defying convention.
With his natal Venus in a trine aspect to Pluto, Billy's observational skills are highly tuned. He senses what others are thinking and has a strong feeling of their true motivations. With razor-sharp perception he can quickly size up a person or situation, and deal with them accordingly. He is highly devoted and loyal towards the people he loves. Above all, Billy has the ability and talent to truly connect with everyone.
Happy Birthday to Sir William Connolly CBE - The People's Philosopher.
Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Cambridge was born Catherine Elizabeth Middleton on Saturday 9th January 1982 in Reading, Berkshire, England, UK. During my recent break I was able to catch up with a lot of people I don't normally have time to talk with, and chatting to fellow astrologers, I discovered that there has been a correction of the Duchess' time of birth. Apparently, a very reliable source claims she was born at 7pm. So, using this information, here is an updated astrological profile.
As a Sun sign Capricorn, Kate is no stranger to hard work and ambition. She has enormous staying-power and perseverance. This lady knows what she wants. She has a strong sense of self-discipline and a deep respect for tradition. In sector five of her natal chart, the Sun brings a need for intellectual stimulation, travel and a love of adventure and sporting activities. With her natal Sun in this position, she has an inner desire to prove her strengths and abilities. The Sun is in an opposition aspect to the Moon in Kate's chart - just before a Lunar Eclipse. This indicates that in her private life she may experience inner tension and conflict, causing her to become argumentative. There is also a sense of striving to break free from the past. The Sun in a square to Saturn suggests that Kate may be - or have been - very cautious, self-conscious, serious and perhaps even pessimistic. This planetary configuration often shows the tendency towards an inferiority complex. The Sun in Kate's natal chart is conjunct her South Node giving her strength of will, good self-expression, and leadership qualities. On the negative side, a sense of entitlement, or bossiness could hamper her progress.
With her natal Moon in the sign of Cancer, Kate has great emotional strength and sensitivity. Highly responsive to the moods of other people, she can sometimes be easily offended by over-reacting emotionally to what is said or done. In sector 11 of her chart, the Moon will bring emotional investment to good causes and charities. She will be a true supporter as she cares about others and genuinely wants to help in any way she can. The Moon is in a square aspect to Saturn in Kate's natal chart, and this indicates a fear of failure. She wants to be taken seriously as a member of the royal family - both by the public and the royals themselves. With her natal Moon conjunct the North Node her need for home, family and emotional security is very strong.
The Duchess's natal Ascendant is in the sign of Leo. Interestingly, not only is Leo the sign of royalty, but it's also a very prolific influence within the astrological charts of the British Royal Family. Her father-in-law Prince Charles also has a Leo Ascendant, as does his wife Camilla, so Kate should fit in rather well. With Leo rising, she knows what she wants and will be very focused on her goals. People who have a Leo Ascendant are obsessed with success and they are very ambitious. She is very self-aware, body-conscious and mindful of her own image. She wants to excel in everything she does, to achieve the highest level possible whilst at the same time be seen as a generous, magnanimous, and honourable person. On the negative side, she may want to out-do everybody else and be 'special'.
Mercury and Venus conjunct each other in the sign of Aquarius in sector six of Kate's natal chart indicates that she is very charming, sociable and humorous. With Mercury and Venus there is always an air of insincerity and superficiality, so to a certain extent - probably because of the circles she moves in and her public duties - her personality will be pleasant and friendly but non-committal. Having said that, this planetary combination gives her an elegant way with words. She is an excellent public speaker - indeed, making speeches is definitely one of her special skills. Her natural gifts - intelligence, beauty, style, charm - will be used in order to advance her career.
The Duchess has Mars in the sign of Libra in sector two of her natal chart. This suggests that she is a very good mediator, a peacemaker who has a talent for handling other people's disagreements and quarrels. Although she has already attained a lofty position and a high social status, Kate will be keen to continue learning new skills which will enhance her pride in her work and royal duties. Mars in a square aspect to the Vertex shows that she loves a challenge and is fiercely determined. However, there is a risk of being over-worked, making hasty decisions, and possible disputes with people in positions of authority.
In 1981, the year when Diana became engaged to - and married - Prince Charles, there was a conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn. In ancient times the cycle of these two planets was used to predict events of great importance, particularly those associated with rulers and royalty. Because this conjunction occurred in Libra, love and relationships were the centre of attention and took on a particularly important role in the public psyche. None more so than the wedding of HRH Charles Prince of Wales and Lady Diana Spencer. The Jupiter Saturn conjunction was positioned in sector 10 of Diana's natal chart indicating a rise to great prominence over the next 20 years. On 24th February 1981 this conjunction was in a square aspect to Diana's natal Sun when her engagement was officially announced and the whole world knew that she was about to become the wife of a future king.
In 1981 transiting Pluto was in conjunction to Diana's natal Midheaven indicating a dramatic change in the direction of her life and the subsequent fame and fortune this brought. This planetary influence also showed that her family would be affected by the events in her professional or public life. Her Solar Arc Sun was in opposition to her natal Saturn, indicating a change in status. This was when she became the Princess of Wales. Solar Arc Jupiter in a positive trine aspect to her natal Midheaven showed that the marriage would make Diana extremely popular with the public. Solar Arc Neptune in a trine to Juno indicates the fairytale atmosphere of this marriage.
The Solar Arc Ascendant in a trine to Pluto indicated the wealth and power she would be exposed to which would influence her personal image. And the Solar Arc Midheaven opposite Ceres showed her commitment to her country. Interestingly, Saturn and Pluto are both in hard aspect to Lilith - an indication of the 'other woman' involved in the marriage?
During the wedding month, Diana's Progressed Moon was in a happy and positive trine aspect to her natal Sun, as well as another 'fairytale' influence - Moon conjunct Neptune. Progressed Juno was conveniently positioned on a World Point showing that this marriage was a global phenomenon. It was, and would continue to be, of great interest to millions of people across the world.
For the year 1981, Diana's Solar Return Ascendant was conjunct her natal Neptune giving her a fantasy like outlook, while her Solar Return Midheaven was conjunct her natal Uranus indicating major changes to her domestic environment, family, career, and public image. Uranus also symbolises glamour and this was certainly a big factor in Diana's life.
In Diana's Annual Degree Projection chart the Sun was conjunct her natal Midheaven. This represented her growing prestige and public recognition. The Sun in a trine aspect to her natal Moon symbolised a process of inner change which would gradually turn outwards, and we witnessed this as she became more confident and sophisticated as the years passed.
The ADP Ascendant in a square aspect to her natal Mercury indicated unhappy changes of residence and domestic conflict. It also indicates slander and libel - and of course many dishonest things were said and written about her in the media. On the positive side, there would be increased opportunities for travel and communication with the wider public.
The Projected Midheaven for 1981 was in a square aspect to Diana's natal Neptune. When Neptune is prominent in a chart, it often means that a situation is shrouded in mystery or deception. Although by marrying Prince Charles and becoming the Princess Of Wales, Diana was realising a long-cherished dream, and capturing the popular imagination, she was also making a huge personal sacrifice for what she thought was to be her ideal life. In the long-term, the dream was shattered, she was surrounded by scandal and dishonesty, and her fairytale marriage was exposed as a sham. In many ways, looking back at the wedding with the benefit of hindsight, it was the beginning of the end for Diana, and no-one could have realised just what would unfold over the coming years.....
On Sunday 31st August 1997 millions of people around the world were left in a state of shock and emotional devastation. The reason? The sudden and untimely death of a beautiful, compassionate, and charismatic young woman called Diana. Now, 20 years later, here is my analysis of The People's Princess.
Diana Frances Spencer (she did not become Lady Diana until the age of 13) was born on Saturday, 1st July 1961 at 7:45pm in Sandringham, England, UK.
Diana's natal Sun was in the sign of Cancer making her sensitive, emotional, and intuitive. Naturally caring and protective, she wanted to reach out to people and help wherever, whenever, and in any way she could. On a personal level, her family - particularly her children - were the love of her life. The Sun was situated in sector seven of her chart making her diplomatic, idealistic and romantic. This position of the Sun also showed that being in a partnership would enhance her individuality, and when she got married, this was indeed the case as she blossomed from a shy teenager into a sophisticated young woman. Among other things, this position of the Sun indicated that the person she married would be very dignified, and that professional progress and personal success would come about through that relationship.
Her natal Sun in conjunction to Mercury brought Diana an independent mind and the need to express her thoughts and opinions. She loved meeting people and not just talking to them, but listening too. Forming a good mental rapport with people and exchanging ideas was very stimulating for her. Her insight and perception were razor-sharp. Diana's natal Sun in a sextile aspect to Pluto made it easy and natural for her to find and pursue things which interested her. Many people with this aspect feel they have a special calling, vocation or destiny, and Diana probably felt this too - first as the mother of a future king, and then later as a humanitarian ambassador. She had an eagerness to experience more than just an ordinary life, and was quite ambitious.
With the Sun in a trine aspect to Neptune in her natal chart, Diana had a dreamy, inspired, and sensitive side. An appreciation for music and the arts is represented by this planetary combination and of course Diana loved dancing, especially ballet. Naturally compassionate, she was sensitive to those who were suffering. She had an attraction to spirituality and metaphysical subjects, and it's a well-known fact that Diana regularly consulted psychics and astrologers.
With her natal Moon in Aquarius, Diana became an icon of style, beauty and glamour, and had her life continued, she would have been an icon of humanitarian work too. Many famous people have this planetary influence in their charts as it tends to produce someone who is 'different' in some way. Out of the ordinary, charismatic and unique, Diana was a trailblazer. She was very sociable and extremely sensitive to the opinions of others. Yet at times she could be impulsive, rebellious and unconventional. Intuition, empathy and a sense of humanity came naturally to her.
The Moon in sector three of her natal chart shows that Diana was very responsive, communicative, and curious. This position of the Moon suggests a talent for imitating others and being able to communicate on an emotional level. Her decisions would often have been made from a 'gut feeling' or instinctive standpoint. Intuition and sensitivity influenced her thoughts a great deal and this made her comfortable when talking about feelings and sharing confidences, which in turn enabled others to express their own. Diana had tremendous psychological insight.
With her natal Moon in an opposition aspect to Uranus with both squared by Venus and thus forming a planetary configuration called a T-square, she will have tended to be emotionally impulsive. Her early upbringing may have been unusual and unstable. As a result, her desire to be cared for and her need for emotional independence brought inner psychological conflict. This configuration symbolises Diana's quest for motherhood and also her sudden rise to fame and popularity. The Moon trine her natal Midheaven gave her an instinct for what the public wants, a powerful link with family tradition (her own family as well as the royals) and an innate sense of history. Above all, this planetary influence brought the urge to nurture.
Diana's Ascendant was in the sign of Sagittarius at the time of her birth. Sagittarius is one of the four Dual signs (also called Mutable Signs) and they tend to bring a double life of some sort. Sagittarius symbolises travel, profound subjects, and philosophical thoughts. With this sign on her Ascendant, Diana was drawn to social and moral issues. She led by example - who could forget the groundbreaking scenes of her shaking hands with AIDS patients. At that time, this was a huge deal and totally unprecedented. She took the initiative and inspired others with her faith in people from all walks of life.
With her natal Venus in the sign of Taurus, Diana was imbued with beauty and charm. She was passionate and loyal in love, a touch possessive, and had very powerful emotions. In sector six of her natal chart, Venus is a wonderful planetery placement for finding happiness through work and the daily routine. Diana loved her royal duties, particularly after the breakdown of her marriage when she received love and appreciation from the public that was no longer present in her private life. Also as the planet of attraction, Venus in the sixth sector indicates work involving beauty and you could almost say that Diana's beauty became part of her work. Venus in a trine aspect to Saturn in Diana's natal chart shows her strong sense of duty and commitment as well as her traditional views of love and marriage.
Diana's natal Mars was in conjunction to Pluto - a planetary combination that produces explosive or destructive energy. On the positive side, it shows great courage and remarkable achievements against all the odds. It's easy to say that Diana had a wonderful life - wealth, beauty, fame, etc - but she was virtually abandoned just three years into her marriage. Her husband, whom she adored and wanted to spend the rest of her life with, resumed his affair with his former girlfriend. Diana's in-laws shunned her, and even her own family didn't want to know. On top of that, she had to attend official functions with her husband, smile and pretend that everything was normal. So, she showed tremendous resilience and courage by 'going public' about everything which had happened, and exposing the truth about the British Royal Family.
It is my firm opinion that this particular planetary aspect in Diana's birth chart was a major - although not the only - astrological factor in her death. When she died, Pluto had moved by transit to form a square aspect to her natal Mars, triggering the effect of the natal Mars Pluto conjunction. Another astrologer told me many years ago that astrology charts often reveal literal information and to look for symbolism. The symbolism here is 'violent death'. It's important to remember that violence is not always a deliberate act perpetrated by another person. It is physical damage to the body by great force. Which is exactly what occurred during the car crash in Paris.
As a rule, I hardly ever include Fixed Stars in someone's chart unless that person is very high-profile. In Diana's natal chart the North Node was conjunct the 'Royal Star' Regulus. This indicated that she would be connected in some significant way to royalty - it was in her destiny. Another Fixed Star which made an impact in Diana's natal chart was Spica in a conjunction to her natal Midheaven. It brought success, fame, wealth, and unexpected honours. This star has the nickname 'Queen of Heaven' but also 'The Lonely One'. I think both of these are highly appropriate descriptions of the woman we all came to admire and adore as the unique, dedicated, inspiring and breathtakingly beautiful Princess Diana.
The Great American Total Solar Eclipse taking place on Monday 21 August 2017 will be seen across the USA, but this eclipse hits a degree of the zodiac - 28° Leo - which will make it a global event as he late degrees of Leo are present in the charts of many countries and leaders. Eclipses occur regularly around three or four times a year, but they appear in cycles and this particular one happens approximately every 18.5 years. It was last seen on 11th August 1999.
This Solar Eclipse pattern also occurred in 1945 when America was attacked by the Japanese at Pearl Harbour; in 1963 when President John F Kennedy was assassinated; and in 1981 - the year of an attempted assassination on President Ronald Reagan. This Solar Eclipse will be in a conjunction to President Trump’s natal Mars and Ascendant. This could bring anger, arguments, and aggression - at the very least he'll probably be accident-prone and very stressed. This Solar Eclipse could also be in opposition to the USA Moon (depending upon the actual start time of the USA). If that's the case, there will be a huge amount of social unrest during the months after the eclipse.
Do eclipses influence the birth chart of individuals? Yes, they do. Any planet or point in your natal chart which is being aspected - especially a conjunction or opposition - by the eclipse will be influenced for the next 12 months. You should expect major changes depending upon which planet or point is triggered. For example, if the eclipse connects to the Sun in your natal chart, your physical vitality, creativity, or anything to do with children could become an important issue. This year's Solar Eclipse will be in opposition to my natal Moon. That means I can expect some dramatic situations concerning my family, home, and emotional life. An eclipse brings a turning point usually involving some sort of cover-up or exposure.
Eclipses often coincide with happy events or experiences, but because the energy of an eclipse symbolises a sense of drama, or being at a crossroads in our lives, it tends to have a shadow side, so there is always a hidden element or some unexpected consequence. In ancient times, and throughout history, eclipses were symbols of fear and dread. They were thought to be portents of doom, in much the same way as comets were. A Solar Eclipse actually looks like a giant eye glaring down on everyone, so it's understandable that ancient civilisations believed it to be the 'Evil Eye' - particularly as many people became blind after seeing an eclipse of the Sun. Of course we now understand that the Sun's radiation can destroy the retina, causing a loss of sight, and that's why, in modern times, we are warned to use protection when looking at a Solar Eclipse. As for Lunar Eclipses, they take on a red hue which can look like a face covered in blood - hence the nickname 'Blood Moon'.
People also believed that certain misfortunes would occur in the months after an eclipse: war, drought, famine, etc. Interestingly, it has been discovered that eclipses do make earthquakes more likely in the geographical locations within the eclipse shadow. There is actually a scientific reason for this. The Earth's crust is actually not as solid as it's name suggests. Relatively speaking, it is quite thin and 'floats' on the surface of a layer called the Mantle which is mainly composed of magma - molten rock. When the combined gravitational force of the Sun and Moon takes place during an eclipse, it actually pulls the crust upwards and makes it bulge by more than 50 cm (20 inches). It doesn't sound much but this pulling and stretching can weaken the structure of the crust allowing molten magma to seep through at certain points making those areas more susceptible to seismic eruptions.
In the 'old days' eclipses were believed to have a detrimental effect upon people of high status and in positions of power and authority - especially kings and queens. In modern times, this came to include not just royalty, but prime ministers, presidents and religious leaders too - anyone at the top of the social pyramid. Particularly in the case of members of the British Royal Family, many important events happen on, or around, an eclipse. For example, The Prince Of Wales was born two days before a Lunar Eclipse. He married Lady Diana Spencer on 29th July 1981 - two days before a Solar Eclipse. His elder son, Prince William was born on a Solar Eclipse. On 31st August 1997, Diana, Princess Of Wales died two days before a Solar Eclipse and this year's eclipse is about to make some powerful connections to her chart, so prepare for a revelation.
Remember that you don't have to see an eclipse for it to have an effect on your life, but if you can see it, take precautions and wear protective eclipse goggles. In 2015, there was a Solar Eclipse visible across the UK. I saw it and it was one of the most amazing experiences ever. Happy Eclipse Gazing! 🌕🌑
