The abandoned soul

And Night bore hateful Doom and black Fate

And Death, and Sleep and the brood of Dreams …

HESIOD – THEOGONY

Italian version

The narrative of Lilith and the Black Moon holds a certain allure, both for its intriguing mythological origins, which trace back to certain Sumerian and Biblical passages, and for the debates and discussions that have emerged among astrologers.

The earliest recorded observation of Lilith, whose symbol consists of two crescents crossed with a slit in the centre, was made in 1618 by the Jesuit Father Giovan Battista Riccioli, an astronomer from Ferrara, who considered it the second terrestrial satellite. However, more ancient references trace Lilith’s knowledge back to the ancient Egyptians, who called it Nephthys. According to the astrologer Henry Gouchon’s “Dictionary of Astrology,” [1] the Americans “rediscovered” Lilith in 1971 and published its ephemeris, but the author considers the news unfounded.

The failure to detect the second satellite with the current technological possibilities raises doubts and renders it difficult to accept this phenomenon. Moreover, the daily pace assigned to it is three degrees, as per ancient texts, even though a planet’s orbit is never regular. However, it must be acknowledged that traditional interpretations have undergone numerous upheavals over the centuries. The Black Moon’s intricate genesis necessitates comprehensive explanations of certain astronomical notions.

ELLIPSE. The ellipse is a particular conic shape obtained by sectioning a cylinder with a plane inclined to its axis. The term “ellipse” comes from the Greek word “Ἔλλειψις,” which means “lack” (Figure 1):

Figure 1

V1 V2 = major semiaxis of the ellipse – V3 V4 = minor semiaxis of the ellipse – F1 F2 = focal ellipse axis.

The planetary bodies orbiting the Sun are characterised by an elliptical conic trajectory, as illustrated in the accompanying figure. This description is based on Kepler’s first law, which posits that “the path of each planet is an ellipse, with the Sun at one of its foci.” Similarly, the lunar orbit is also elliptical, with the Earth occupying one of the focal points, as shown in Figure 2.

Figure 2

Illustrated in Figure 2 is the perspective set of the Earth’s and Moon’s orbits. The plane of the lunar orbit intersects the ecliptic at two points known as lunar nodes. The lunar orbit is inclined to the Earth’s orbit plane by 5° 8′ 30″, with the Earth occupying one focus of the lunar orbit. The point of closest approach between the Earth and the Moon is known as perigee, while the point of maximum distance is called apogee. The two extremes of the major axis of the lunar orbit are referred to as apses, originating from the Greek term Apsis, indicating curvature or vault.

The Black Moon is still considered an immaterial point representing the second focus of the lunar orbit, contrary to the supposed physical reality of Lilith. Its definition required significant effort; it was first extrapolated in 1937 by Dom Néroman, also known as Maurizio Rougié, a Parisian occultist. However, the concept of the Black Moon faced hostility within the astrological community due to accusations of plagiarism against Rougié. Critics claimed he used studies already published in England without providing proper acknowledgement. Furthermore, the symbolism of the Black Moon, represented by the lunar apogee instead of the second focus of the lunar orbit, is a concept that cannot be mathematically expressed with precision. It requires approximately three hundred factors to determine the lunar path within a minute of arc.

Astrologers have proposed the concept of mean lunar apogee to explain the Black Moon, which is given by the mean movement of the major axis of the lunar orbit, nodes, apogee, and perigee with the theoretical ellipse described by the lunar orbit. However, other authors have defined the Black Moon more precisely as the second focus of the deformable ellipse described by the complex lunar orbit. It has a longitude close to that of the mean lunar apogee, and its opposite point, the mean perigee, is known as Priapus.

Mythology

The Black Moon-Lilith mythological structure can be traced back to ancient Sumerian-Akkadian sources, including the poem of Gilgamesh and other texts. The root LIL, which was present in names such as Enlil, Ninlil, Mullil, and Anlil, was used to denote deities as well as evil spirits. The demon Lulu, known for its nocturnal activities and ability to awaken lustful desires, was associated with libertinage.

The legend of Lilith in the Jewish tradition is a complex narrative that has captured the imagination of many. Drawing from various sources like the Torah, Genesis, Midrash, and the symbolism of the Fall, the story provides a profound insight into human nature and the duality of existence. Alongside Eve, Adam’s second wife and the feminine principle that completes the alchemical union of the Two who are One, lurks Lilith, Adam’s demonic first wife.

Male and female created He them, and blessed them and called their name Adam in the day when they were created.

— Genesis 5:2

Lilith represents the primitive, sensual, and instinctual aspects of humanity that are often repressed in favour of the rational and conscious mind. Her presence foreshadows Adam’s rejection of his unconscious shadow and descent into fear and isolation. This abandonment of the self leads Adam on a path of false glory and self-aggrandisement, ultimately leading him astray from his true purpose.

In both the Egyptian and Greco-Roman cultural traditions, the concept of the dark and mysterious duality of the Moon, which represents the opposing poles of existential experience, is clearly defined. The full Moon is viewed as a benevolent and accommodating entity, while the new Moon is considered to be a malicious and destructive force. This presage of the Moon’s invisible influence, which is even more terrifying due to its dominance despite its invisibility, has given rise to the symbolism of the Night. This symbolism has been embodied in various mythical figures, such as the Black Isis of the Egyptians, the Greek goddess Hecate, and the Roman goddess Proserpina, representing destruction and chaos.

With the rise of Christianity, the concept of dualism evolved into a complete dichotomy. The fallen angel, Lucifer, emerged as an adversary to the God of Good and Reason. Throughout the Middle Ages, the Malleus Maleficarum, an instrument of moralisation, was utilised to hunt and persecute individuals accused of witchcraft. The driving force behind this persecution was rooted in the will to eliminate the demonic from human consciousness.

On the threshold of the seventeenth century, we find ourselves in the Age of Enlightenment, which served as a precursor to modern aspirations of excellence. The wonders of reason have enabled us to relegate past nightmares to archaic beliefs of the soul. However, is this truly the case, or does it represent an attempt to eliminate what is instinctive and, therefore, irrational in our nature?

The two aspects of the feminine, Lilith-Eve and Hecate-Demeter, signify the painful transition of abandonment into contemporary human consciousness. The Soul’s Shadow, often misunderstood and regarded as a psychotic element of human personality, has been subjected to a harsh dualism that deems hidden aspects of the self as evil and undesirable. As a receptive complement to the positive nature of humanity, women take on the form of the fugitive Lilith in their rejection of patriarchal rule. Lilith, the first prevaricator companion, refused to accept the subordinate role dictated to her by Adam. In our inability to achieve the coincidentia oppositorum, we have created a dark goddess with terrifying and perverse features. Through a process of integration, we can recover the dark pole of our soul and dispel the demonisation of Lilith, who represents the most authentic, albeit imaginative and concealed aspect of our psyche.

The symbolism

Astrological exegesis considers Lilith and the Black Moon to have the same meanings. The discovery, whether actual or presumed, of an invisible satellite may be an attempt to give form to intangible fears in a time of increasing materialism, contributing in some way to a genuine exorcism effort.

The Black Moon’s astronomical symbolism is of greater relevance as the second focus of the lunar orbit. The binomial Lilith-Eve arises from an illusion of our distinctive mind that is unable to accept as its own what appears as opposing. This is especially true if the astronomical representation is a fictitious point that does not exist. Nevertheless, it is the centre of a complex balance of cosmic forces. From this perspective, the Black Moon is a kind of anti-Earth. It brings together fears for what is not visible, concrete, or stable, offering no support. It represents the forgotten soul attempting to restore space for the empty and formless. This is in contrast to human experience, defined by objects of perception. What is empty creates a sort of ambivalent attraction; it wishes to be filled, but it destroys the beliefs on which we affirm our individuality. In astrological interpretation, the Black Moon represents the spontaneous power of the sexual libido. It is not in the inferior sense that some understand it, but as a shadow element of the psyche, we must integrate into conscious dynamics. Its interpretation by sign, House, and aspects will indicate the area of experience where it will be necessary to confront one’s fears. Failure to do so may result in social rejection.

Symbol of the Black Moon: the crescent (the soul) dominating matter.
Daily motion6′ 30″

Lilith in zodiac signs

The presence of Lilith in the zodiac signs should be interpreted as the quality that the sign brings to the planet. As Lilith is a manifestation of the dark side of the psyche, we tend to underline the most problematic aspects of its expression, i.e., those that are most noticeable. However, it is essential to note that there is also an integration potential that combines sexual energy with the particular sensitivity of the zodiac sign. For instance, Lilith in Gemini can return a communicative ability that captivates and fascinates with words. These hints also apply to descriptions of Lilith in Houses and aspects of it.

Aries

Unrestrained instincts, which may be characterised by sexual excesses, especially if there are criticalities with Mars and Pluto. However, on the positive side, such scenarios may provide access to potent creative energies.

Taurus

The natives exhibit an outwardly calm demeanour, which may harbour latent impulses such as nymphomania or satyriasis. This is particularly true when such impulses are associated with the Moon and Venus. However, such individuals may also possess a strong inclination towards material production.

Gemini

The cerebralism leads to a detachment of sexual appetites, promoting curiosity over passion, as well as indulgence in autoeroticism and voyeurism. On a positive note, communicative ability is captivating and fascinating, characterised by articulate and expressive language.

Cancer 

A closed, suffocating, or corrupt environment can negatively affect these individuals, leading to inhibitions and deviations. Such individuals may exhibit Oedipus or Electra complexes [2]. However, they may be able to develop a strong artistic sense and find a positive outlet for their creativity.

Leo

Such individuals may exhibit egoistic tendencies that can overshadow their partner or children. This inclination towards domination is often driven by a solid creative power, which, if channelled positively, can serve high ideals. It is important to note that this placement can also stimulate an innate desire for recognition and a need for self-expression.

Virgo

Inhibition and sensory control can impede sexual function. Complex, intricate relationships may predispose individuals to neuroses. However, the capacity for research and analytical thinking can lead to significant success in the exact sciences.

Libra

These individuals show narcissistic and exhibitionist tendencies and tend to engage in intense and passionate relationships typified by morbid jealousy. However, they may also develop an innate judgement about persons and circumstances, which does not rely on logic but instead on instinct.

Scorpio

Individuals with Lilith in Scorpio may experience frustration in their sensual pursuits, which can lead to the transmutation of their primal instincts or, in some cases, destructive and self-harming relationships. However, this position can also offer a natural magnetism and charm in a positive sense.

Sagittarius

Individuals may be attracted to unconventional or artificially induced sexual stimuli. Additionally, some may experience a change in their sexual preferences during adulthood. Alternatively, individuals may engage in adventure-seeking behaviour or dedicate themselves to unorthodox activities.

Capricorn

Individuals with Lilith in Capricorn may encounter sexual conflicts leading to frigidity and repression of instincts, particularly in association with negative aspects of Venus and Saturn. This may result in erectile dysfunction or infertility. However, on a positive note, the ability to regulate the libidinal impulse can lead to social or spiritual accomplishments.

Aquarius

The placement of Lilith in Aquarius is associated with a sexual instinct that tends to be anarchic, with a corresponding lack of respect for taboos and a willingness to engage in daring or bisexual sexual experiences. However, if this instinct is channelled differently, it can translate into universalistic aspirations or humanitarian commitments.

Pisces

We are here in the presence of a concealed sexuality that is expressed through mystical fantasies and a preference for masochistic relationships. Despite these potentially negative attributes, mysticism can also take on a genuinely spiritual meaning and foster a sense of universality.

Lilith in the Houses

The presence of Lilith in the Houses signifies the human realm of experience in which the integration of concealed drives becomes apparent.

1st House

The astrological placement of Lilith in the first house is believed to have significant implications for an individual’s personality. For men, this placement may lead to tendencies towards narcissism, possessiveness, misogyny, sexual disorders, or chastity complexes. Women with this placement may develop an independent and authoritarian personality, a rebellious nature, and an unconscious refusal to breastfeed and care for their children while also being attracted to solicitation and seduction.

According to astrological tradition, the Black Moon-Ascendant conjunction, with an orbit up to 2-3 degrees, represents individuals with an extraordinary destiny.

2nd House

The presence of Lilith in the second house may impose limitations on the possibility of acquiring material goods. Furthermore, individuals with this placement may experience a lack of intuition, resulting in sacrifices and renunciations. The contempt for venal matters is also a common trait of such individuals. However, with positive planetary aspects, this position may foster a natural detachment from consumerist excesses.

3rd House

The placement of Lilith in the third house of an individual’s astrological chart may indicate an unhappy childhood, difficulties in academic pursuits, and challenges in forming and maintaining social relationships. Additionally, there may exist a morbid attachment to relatives, particularly siblings. However, on a positive note, this placement may foster the development of an individual’s ability to perceive the unspoken words and meanings underlying others’ speech.

4th House

Introversion, a restless nature, and feelings of torment and anguish often characterise individuals with Lilith in the fourth house. They may also experience issues related to family instability and problems with identification with their parents. However, a positive aspect of this placement is the potential to perceive primary causes clearly. This ability can provide a valuable foundation for self-awareness.

5th House

Lilith in the Fifth House can indicate a range of outcomes relating to romantic relationships and reproductive health. Adverse outcomes associated with this placement may include unstable romantic relationships, anomalous attitudes towards love, and the possibility of reproductive impotence for men, as well as vaginitis, infertility, and miscarriage for women. However, a heightened sense of inventiveness and artistic expression can manifest when Lilith’s influence is positive.

6th House

Individuals with Lilith in the Sixth House may exhibit a predisposition to psychosomatic disorders, a tyrannical superego complex, and a refusal of routine work. Despite the challenges mentioned above, individuals with this placement may benefit from honing their analytical abilities to overcome these obstacles and achieve success.

7th House

Individuals with Lilith in the Seventh House may encounter difficulties in selecting a suitable life partner, resulting in broken relationships, infidelity on the part of the partner, and possible legal complications. However, the positive aspect of this placement can emerge when one learns the art of discrimination and precise evaluation of life and relationship circumstances.

8th House 

Morbid imagination, erotic restlessness, a crisis of abandonment, financial problems related to inheritance or acquired assets, the tendency to self-destructive states and psychosomatic illnesses associated with the zodiac sign in which the Black Moon is located, if negative aspects are present.

9t House

The positioning of Lilith in the Ninth House is associated with a potential lack of ethical, artistic, or philosophical ideals and aspirations, as well as introversion and complexities in relationships with unfamiliar individuals. Notwithstanding, this placement may also bestow upon the individual a positive attribute of perseverance and dedication to one’s ideals despite facing numerous adversities.

10th House 

Individuals with Lilith in the Tenth House may experience atypical and unconventional professional endeavours. They may also encounter difficulties assimilating into both social and professional environments. However, this placement also has a potential upside, as it may develop a unique, innovative, and creative approach to professional and social life.

11th House

Individuals with Lilith in the Eleventh House may exhibit characteristics such as a lack of aspiration and projects, introversion, a love for closed spaces, poor social adaptation, and disappointment with friends. However, if experienced positively, this position can incline individuals towards social reforms or ethical and scientific revolutions.

12th House

Individuals with Lilith in the Twelfth House may exhibit a negative outlook on life, which can manifest as a propensity to use drugs or psychotropic substances, engage in secretive relationships, or experience chronic illnesses. However, these individuals may also possess positive traits, such as a profound sense of empathy and an innate ability to find their purpose in life, even without explicit reference points.

Aspects of Lilith

Before delving into the specifics of each planetary aspect, it will be helpful to briefly consider Lilith’s significance in the realm of human experience from a psychic, psychological, and behavioural standpoint. Such considerations can help provide a more insightful interpretation of Lilith’s implications. It is also worth noting that the aspects indicate the potential for interaction between the planetary dynamics involved; the descriptions provided reflect a tendency but do not necessarily represent factual reality.

When in aspect to the Sun and Moon, Lilith interprets, among other things, the dynamics between parents and children.

The aspects of Lilith with Venus and Mars describe the various manners in which sexual and emotional tendencies manifest.

Lilith-Jupiter aspects represent the major or minor critical issues concerning the individual’s integration into society.

The emergence of neurotic, paranoid and schizophrenic tendencies can coincide with the formation of critical aspects between Lilith and the planets Mercury, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune and Pluto.

Sun

When Lilith is favourably aligned with the Sun, it signifies a state of good harmony between reason and instinct, thereby creating a balance between the male and female attributes. This alignment indicates an individual’s ability to integrate these attributes, leading to a state of equilibrium.

When Lilith is negatively aspected to the Sun, individuals may experience a range of challenges. For men, this may manifest as a lack of identification with their father’s image, leading to a devaluation of their personality and a sense of betrayal from friends. The resulting overwhelming passions can ultimately lead to ruin. Women may struggle with a lack of a male role model to adopt as an ideal, leading to feelings of hatred towards men and attitudes of superiority. In general, Lilith’s negative influence may result in a lack of spontaneity and fickleness, as well as physical symptoms such as hyperhidrosis (abnormally excessive sweating) or ptyalism (overproduction of saliva).

Moon

Individuals with Lilith well aspected to the Moon may display a range of characteristics such as acceptance of one’s sexuality, attraction to the occult or issues concerning the sexual sphere, a predisposition to psychological studies, and a deep bond with the mother.

Lilith in a negative aspect to the Moon can have significant implications for both men and women. Men may experience a lack of an unconscious female model to emulate, resulting in feelings of psychic castration by the mother, fear or animosity towards women, and sometimes even impotence. On the other hand, women might experience a deficiency in identifying with maternal role models, endocrine disorders, predisposition to miscarriage, or sometimes nymphomania. These types of conditions can often result in feelings of guilt and self-punishment.

Mercury

Lilith, in conjunction or trine with Mercury, exhibits a favourable mental relationship with sex, an inclination towards sexual issues, and a tendency to stimulate creative elements related to sexuality.

Lilith, in a negative aspect with Mercury, has been associated with a tendency towards an odd or perverse mentality. The individual in question may exhibit excessive cerebralism, preferring abstract and complex thought patterns over practical, down-to-earth thinking. Additionally, their refusal to communicate may lead to difficulties in interpersonal relations and nervous imbalances.

Venus

When Lilith is positively aligned with Venus, individuals may experience a harmonious balance between love and eroticism. This alignment may foster internally fulfilling and formative relationships, as well as the ability to manage negative sexual impulses.

When Lilith has negative aspects with Venus, the result is the unconscious rejection of love or a tendency to voyeurism. In the case of men, there may be a rejection of women and sometimes impotence. On the other hand, women may experience a rejection of their femininity, leading to frigidity and inhibitions.

Mars

The presence of Lilith in a positive aspect with Mars may result in the heightened accentuation of sexual activity in an individual. It is important to note that there may be a risk of developing nymphomania in women or satyriasis in men due to this heightened sexual drive.

The negative aspects of Lilith with Mars can result in a lack of willpower, apathy, thyroid dysfunction, obesity, aphonia, and a higher likelihood of accidents. Lilith is often interpreted as representing the rejection of masculinity in men and castration tendencies towards men in women.

Jupiter

Lilith’s positive aspects with Jupiter are characterised by the impact of morality and religiosity on sexual expression. For men, this influence is often manifested through paternalistic and protective attitudes towards women.

Lilith’s unfavourable influence with Jupiter may result in various adverse effects, such as psychic instability, inconsistency, anarchic tendencies, dyspepsia, or aerophagia.

Saturn

Lilith’s positive aspects with Saturn are characterised by low sexual vitality, frigidity, or disinterest in sexual activities. In some cases, individuals who exhibit such traits may prefer celibacy.

The position of Lilith in negative aspects with Saturn may lead to various adverse outcomes. These include a propensity towards isolation, self-destructive tendencies, psychic disturbances, thwarted ambitions, moral misgivings, and physical discomfort such as abdominal or joint pains.

Uranus

The positive aspects of Lilith and Uranus can yield the best outcomes in terms of sexual expression. It can lead to the exploration of novel erotic experiences without the constraints of societal norms or taboos. This pairing can encourage sexual freedom and an openness to alternative forms of sexual expression.

The presence of Lilith’s negative aspects with Uranus could result in several undesirable outcomes, including a lack of discernment in identifying opportunities, a propensity towards capricious behaviour, abnormal emotional reactions, and sudden outbursts of aggression.

Neptune

The positive aspects of Lilith with Neptune manifest in the form of a romantic and idealised vision of eroticism. This configuration is characterized by voluntary renunciation of sexuality and a desire for a highly refined and spiritual experience.

The potential negative influence of Lilith on Neptune may result in various effects, such as the amplification of the imagination, the emergence of fanciful and sensual delusions, the loss of consciousness, and a tendency towards an immoral lifestyle. In some cases, this may even lead to more severe conditions, including schizophrenia and drug abuse.

Pluto

The positive interplay between Lilith and Pluto can give rise to outcomes such as intense and genuine love, profound sensuality, and an alluring physical appearance. These effects are typically associated with a heightened sense of passion and desire, leading to an overall sense of voluptuousness.

Lilith’s negative aspects with Pluto can produce critical traits such as a propensity towards deceit and betrayal, a lack of remorse, sadism, and the tendency for destructive and self-destructive behaviours in relationships.

Bibliography

  • Federico Capone – Luna Nera Lilith (Black Moon Lilith) – Turin 1978
  • Clara Negri – Lilith la Luna Nera in Astrologia (Black Moon Lilith in Astrology) – Naples 1985
  • Roberto Sicuteri – Lilith la Luna Nera (Black Moon Lilith) – Rome 1980
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