by The evolutionary phases of planetary transits.
The transit cycle is a process that considers the various aspects that a transiting planet forms with a sensitive point in the birth chart. This methodology has an inherent advantage in allowing for the insertion of events into their natural birth, growth, and decay cycles. The resulting overall perspective is often quite helpful in framing events within an individual’s life span, particularly in the case of slow-moving planets or in the maturation of a single psychic instance during cyclic transits of a fast planet. However, the validity of the cycles can vary depending on the circumstances. For example, the cycles of the Sun and Saturn are generally considered to be very revealing.
Examining the process of transit as a whole, rather than focusing solely on individual aspects, is also a matter of taking advantage of opportunities contingent upon specific needs. If the investigation is being conducted over a limited time frame, examining the cycles may add unnecessary complexity to the interpretation. However, if the objective is to study the evolutionary processes of the individual, then the cycle reveals its full range of meanings.
Another important consideration when studying individual transits and planetary cycles is that the nature of the transited planet, both celestial and terrestrial [1], determines the event’s meaning. The transiting planet brings a way of expressing events that conform to its inherent nature. For instance, the transit of Neptune over natal Mars in the seventh house suggests that any actions and decisions made (Mars) in the context of one’s relationships (7th house) will be characterised by a confused and unrealistic approach and that the results obtained will be inconsistent (Neptune).
Transit stages
Conjunction
During the conjunction stage, an event is initiated that gives rise to the birth of an internal seed or signifies the point at which one of the psychic nodes comes into contact with the external world, thereby commencing a process. As the conjunction is inherently unconscious or unaware, the precise significance that can be derived from it is not immediately definable (before the event’s occurrence); instead, it becomes increasingly apparent as subsequent transit aspects gradually complete the cycle that begins with the conjunction.
Separating sextile
The sextile that follows the conjunction puts into effect the process initiated by the latter. Following the planting of the seed, this phase involves understanding the forces at work and transforming the idea into action. In light of future efforts to achieve balance, this stage may be viewed as preparatory; by recognising the necessary steps and taking advantage of present opportunities, we may avoid future crises of adaptation.
Separating square
During this phase, one may encounter obstacles that hinder the development of ideas in the intended environment. This period is traditionally defined as a crisis resulting from events incongruous with our conception of happiness or well-being. In reality, it is imperative to understand that the situation arises from the inability to adapt psychologically to the event or the difficulty in accepting the transformation opportunities presented. This phase can provide a creative stimulus if one is willing to confront the challenges inherent in a new condition. However, suppose one attempts to endure the weight of an unresolved situation without acting to effect change. In that case, the crisis will be deferred to the next stage of opposition.
Separating trine
While similar to the previous sextile in terms of the balance it brings, the aspect of separating trine reveals multiple facets when interpreted organically. If the last square aspect triggered a creative process, this trine aspect refers to a preparatory period of gathering forces for the subsequent opposition phase. If the square aspect has been challenging, it is appropriate to consider reorienting one’s goals at this time. However, if we remain in a condition of imbalance, without the precise awareness of the error on our part, then the trine aspect may lead to the persistence of confusion and illusion generated by a state of affairs far from positive.
Opposition stage
The opposition stage represents the culmination of events and circumstances that have arisen from the conjunction and subsequent steps. Similar to the square aspect, the polarity of this aspect is determined by the quality of the maturation process that has taken place in the growth hemicycle. If the process concludes harmoniously, the opposition marks a period of positive confrontation between the parties involved. This is a moment of revelation, recognition, and objective completion of what was previously present within us on a potential level. However, negative and sometimes even painful effects may be experienced during an opposition due to a conflictual relationship with a part of ourselves that we have not yet welcomed and integrated. From the perspective of destiny, this unacknowledged aspect tends to manifest as frustrating or even destructive.
With the opposition, the hemicycle of birth, growth, and maturation draws to a close, marking the beginning of the hemicycle of consolidation, transformation, and rebirth. It is important to note that despite representing a pinnacle of evolutionary development, this aspect is not a point of arrival. Instead, it is the culmination of an ongoing process that will continue to unfold with future developments.
Applying trine
Considering the opposition as a new starting point can be regarded as the apotheosis of a cycle upon which we can build the fruit of our efforts. In such a scenario, we may observe that the applying trine adopts the qualities of the separating sextile. It is not a question of interpreting the aspect based on the traditional model of the trine, which is characterised by harmony and static balance. Instead, we find ourselves in a phase where our accomplishments provide further opportunities for development following the opposition. However, if the opposition has been unfavourable, we cannot build on it, and the significance of the period is that of a pause for reflection and rest following a setback.
Applying square
If one observes the separating square as a symbol of the crisis that arises during a growth phase, the applying square represents the potential hazards of the collapse of an existing structure. It is a fact of life that every entity undergoes a cycle of growth and decay, and accepting this reality implicitly conveys an awareness of the temporal limits of one’s accomplishments. This requires adjusting one’s mindset to accommodate the changed state of affairs and learning how to revitalize oneself without the fear of abandoning one’s prior efforts. However, in the absence of constructive models developed by the previous opposition, this transit may signify a more or less profound detachment from reality, a crisis of discouragement, self-doubt, and depression.
Applying sextile
We have now approached a new beginning. In its positive connotation, this aspect is akin to a separating trine, indicating a moment of preparation towards renovation, much like organising one’s belongings before moving into a larger residence. However, in the event that this cycle occurs in a critical context, the applicative sextile denotes the acknowledgement of one’s mistakes and responsibilities, which are crucial prerequisites for capitalising on the opportunities that the emerging conjunction presents by revitalising creative concepts.
[1] The determination of a planet’s celestial state is predicated upon its position relative to the zodiac. In contrast, its earthly state is determined by its position in domification or the planets in the houses.
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