November New Moon

New Moon in Libra at 9:52 pm pdt.

A New Moon is the monthly conjunction of Sun and Moon that represents a time of new beginnings. Western astrology favors New Moons as a time for new projects related to the sign where the lunation occurs. Many western astrologers believe the New Moon is a powerful day in which one may set a goal that will come to fruition under the light of a Full Moon. In Vedic astrology the waxing moon is considered more favorable than the waning moon, and the brighter the moon the better. As the Moon gets brighter it becomes more favorable, at about 72 degree away from the New Moon position. So the New Moon sets the tone for the new cycle of illumination.

This evening the dark Moon ends the waning phase when conjoins a debilitated Sun in the constellation Libra. During the end of October and beginning of November the Sun transits Libra, its sign of debilitation. The Sun signifies the self or atman, authority, the government, and royalty. It is uncomfortable in the sign of Libra which confers an accommodating nature that is useful when dealing with groups and relationships, but not for taking its right place of authority. The Sun in Libra can be charming, alluring, and supportive, but it can also be out of balance and give too much causing a passive-aggressive polarity. During this week's waning moon, we certainly witnessed the shift in the scales of justice. Diplomacy was thrown out the window by Mitch McConnell and the GOP in their ardent rejection of the olive branch offered by President Obama.



This evening when the Moon joins the Sun and begins its journey of regrowth, there will be a better opportunity to feel the positive aspects of Libra. The Moon is more comfortable than the Sun in the sign of Libra which imbues the lunar field with a sweet, charming, gentle and seductive energy. The Moon is able to use this accommodating vibration which calms our minds and emotions. Moreover, tonight's new Moon is accompanied by a retrograde crescent Venus that is beginning to strengthen as it becomes established as the Morning star. Intriguingly the New Moon also occurs at the exact same degree as Venus' retrograde station of October 8, 2010. This is a powerful combination that begins a process of understanding the deeper meanings of Venus retrograde. It is a wonderful time to re-access and bring to balance of all of our relationships. Beautiful new beginnings are at hand.



November's New Moon takes place in the nakshatra of Swati which translates as: "self-going", "good goer", "self-blowing", "tender", "sword" or "priest". These terms seem to encompass all the qualities that this asterism evokes. Its symbol is a single plant shoot blown by the wind. Swati is ruled by Vayu, the demigod of air and wind. In Hinduism he is also known as Vata (air), Pavana (purifier), or Prana (breath). Astrologically air and wind symbolism reveals the quality that confers its restless nature. This nakshatra gives the power to "scatter like the wind," pradhvamsa shakti. It is ruled by Rahu, the north node of the moon, that has a vata, literally "blown", or airy, nature. Rahu is a manifesting force that can build like a gentle breeze, or wreak havoc and blow like a category five hurricane.



Rahu also rules politics and foreign lands, so it is intriguing that President Obama will depart today for his 10 day trip to Asia under the influence of Swati. After the loud and clear rebuke of the Democratic party in the latest US elections, a bruised and "tender" Obama is taking the opportunity to "scatter like the wind," and find relief overseas where he is still popular. He may be able to "breath new life" into his administration by focusing on foreign affairs.

In addition, India is celebrating Diwali or Deepavali (row of lamps), which according to Hindu belief, is celebrated to mark the return of Lord Rama to Ayodhya from his exile after vanquishing demon-king Ravana. As a fellow astrologer, Trishula Das, pointed out in her lovely musings about this New Moon,

"Diwali is when Ram returned to Ayodhya. Yudha means war. Ayudha means no war. Ayodhya is the place of perfect Peace. Ram means the manifestation of perfect Consciousness. This Friday may the Ram within you return to the place of perfect Peace," copied from 1008 Sri Sri Thakur Sita Ram Das Omkarnath ... one of Babuji's guru's.

Perhaps President Obama will absorb some of this peaceful vibration and reveal that he did indeed earn his Nobel Peace Prize last year.

Swati is also ruled by Saraswati, the goddess of learning, knowledge and wisdom. Let this New Moon be a time of reflection so we may we all tune into her sweet music and be blessed with understanding and grace.

Namaste!