Day: January 29, 2023

Spell for Today -Moonstone Travel

When dealing with a weekly spell guide, Mondays are thought to be the logical day for money, love, time and meditation spells. Since Mondays are thought to be the start of the work week, it gives plenty of time for a Monday spell to gain strength throughout the rest of the week.

Moonstone Travel Spell

This spell will call on Meness, the patron moon god of travelers. We met Meness earlier, in the meditation for Monday. I suggest setting up this spell in the evening. Find a spot that faces east or that is illuminated by moonlight. Or try setting this up under the moon, in the garden, or on the porch or your outside deck. Get some atmosphere going! Try using a scented candle, such as jasmine or gardenia, to coordinate the fragrance with the moon’s energies.

Gather the following items:

• A photo of your destination, your travel itinerary, or your airline tickets

• 4 small tumbled moonstones

• A scented white votive candle and holder

• A lighter or matches

Set up this spell on a safe, flat surface. Light the candle and place it in the holder. Place your paperwork/tickets or itinerary to one side of the candle. Arrange the four stones in a circle around the holder. Place your hands on the travel paperwork, and ground and center. Then repeat the following spell three times:

Meness, patron of travelers, watch over me

Whether I travel in the air, on land, or sea

Like a talisman in my pocket a stone will I tuck

Moonstones do encourage a safe journey and bring good luck. Take one of the stones and keep it in your pocket while you travel. You may close the spell by saying:

For the good of all, with harm to none

By the moon and stars, this spell is done.

Gather up your papers and tuck them away for your trip. Allow the candle to burn out on its own. If you performed this outside, then move your candle and the remaining stones indoors to let the candle safely finish burning. Never leave your candle unattended.

Source

Book of Witchery: Spells, Charms & Correspondences for Every Day of the Week
Ellen Dugan

*All of Ms. Dugan’s books used on the WOTC are available for purchase on Amazon.com. 

The Various Paths of Witchcraft: Celtic Witchcraft

Celtic Witchcraft

 

The History of Celtic Magic

Celtic witchcraft has as its basis a strong sense of spirituality and a love of the earth. Central to this love are the Goddesses and Gids, who play a strong role in Celtic worship. The Celtric religion recognises two main deities; the Earth Mother Goddess and the Horned God. But Celtic Wiccans also worship many othre minor deities who each represent specific qualities important to Celtic individuals. Celtic worshippers celebrate the same Sabbaths, perform rituals and magic, and have a strong faith in their spirituality, just like any member of the Craft. The main differences between Celtic witchcraft and other forms of the Craft is that with Celts, magic is everywhere. Magic is woven into their jewellery, their tattoos and all their artwork and everyday items such asclothing and cutlery.

The Druids are the religious leaders of the Celtic people,the wise and magical priestd and priestesses whose special blend of wisdom and magic provided a powerful role model for all the Celtic people. The Druidic priesthood was orginally all-female, which male initiates only becoming accepted after many years.

According to Laurie Cabot, Druidesses were divided into three levels, or classes: the highest class were celibate and lived in convents, and were eventually assimilated into Christianity as nuns. The other two levels could be married and lived either with their husbands, or in the temples. With the onset of Christianity these wise women were called witches.

Spirituality is of primary import to Celtis, and their devotion to the earth, their goddesses and gods and the effeort which they put into their worship is proof of their highly spiritual nature. Although the names of the deities worshipped and the titles of the SAbbats may be different to other Pagan practices, despite the regional dialects which occur in the Celtic rituals, there are strong similarities between Celtic witchcraft and Wicca practiced elsewhere on the globe.

Faerie Magic

Despite the interest in the Celts, there is a great deal of confusion as to who the Celtic people actually were, and where they came from. DJ Conway in her book Celtic Magic explains that the Celts were not only inhabitants of Wales Ireland and Scotland, as is commonly thought, but resided in much of Western Europe. They were a strongly spiritual, artistic and creative people, with a distinctive artwork, orginal alphabet (the Ogham) and a deep respect for faeries, elves, pixies and gnomes.

One need not be of Celtic heritage to practice Celtic magic. Each person who is interested in Paganism will follow a basic set of guidelines, but will adapt the rituals and spells to suit her/himself. One aspect which sets Celtic magic apart from others is their respect for the “little people”: faeries, elves and gnomes, whom the Celts called “Good Neighbours” and treated with honour. Much of the Celtic magic calls for the assistance of their Good Neighbours, with those who were familiar often using the little folks’ fairy circles of mushrooms found in fields, rather than casting their own magic circle. However the Celts realised that it is very important to use another’s circle with respect, and with permission, they are aware that you should never encroach upon another’s magic.

The Warrior Goddess

The Celts were unique in the level of power they attributed to their female Gods. Warrior Goddesses were relatively common, and it was not unusual for Celtic women to fight alongside the male warriors during wartime. Subsequently, women were highly regarded in the Celtic community, with children taking their mother’s name, and daughters inheriting the mother’s property upon her death.

Celtic magic is rooted strongly in the four natural elements: earth, air,fire and water, with many spells and rituals corresponding to at least one of these elements. As in all Wiccan magic, each of the elements is associated with a colour, and with certain powers. For the Celts the colours were North, black; South, white; East, red and West, grey. The Celts also placed a great deal of faith in stones and plants and in their ability to heal. Therefore any practitioner of Celtic magic would be well versed in plants and herbal medicine.

Ritualsinterwined the use of colours, stones, incense and elements representing the natural elements, which are all extremely powerful tools in Celtic magic.

Magical Lives

With the Celts, magic was a common part of everyday life, completely accepted and never questioned. In order to practice Celtic magic one needs to suspend disbelief, turn around the conventional ideas and accept magic into your life. Magic becomes s natural as breathing, sleeping and smiling : a completely normal part of life. As one becomes more familiar with magic, the more accepting one becomes, until there’s not even a second thought about the magic in one’s life.

The White Moon Goddess and the Honrned God are the two deities which personify nature for the Celts, and while the Celts, like Wiccans, believe that all Gods and Goddesses are one God united, is is these two which are the most prominent. Celts worship the triple Goddess: the deity recognised as the maiden, mother, crone. The maiden is Anu, the mother Badb and the crone Ceridwen: each representing woman at three important phases of her llife cycle.

Just as the lunar calendar is important to all witches, it plays a strong role in the Celtic lifestyle. The thirteen lunar months in the Celtic calendar are all named after certain plants and trees. The new year for the Celts starts the day after Samhain (on November 1, its origins being in the Northern hemisphere). Nights were counted, not days, and feasts, rituals and celebrations were always based around the moon. The Celtic day began at midnight.

The Celts were an extremely spiritual people, so when Christian leaders looked down upon their magical tradition, the Celts moved underground: or more specifically to the nearest forest. The Celts were not a sexually repressed people, sexuality was encouraged, and women with children were paid a higher dowery than virgins to become wives – so much was fertility prized. Beltane was considered a most auspicious festivals were often held during this time.

Celtic Rituals

In Celtic witchcraft, rituals honour the essential elements of earth, air, fire and water, and the deities that personify them. Rituals are held in honour of the seasons, the Sabbats and to celebrate auspicious moments in pagan history. Numbers are extremely important to the Celts, with three, five, seven, nine and thirteen holding special significance. Therefore it is auspicious to repeat rituals or affirmations a specific number of times.

Ritual is vital for Celtic magic. The wearing of ceremonial robes, the burning of incense and candles, and the tools on the ceremonial altar – all play an important role in setting the scene for magic. Magic is an oft overused term, but those in the Craft know that it works. With spellcraft one can practice and see the results of magic, constantly gaining strength with each day that passes.

Candle magic was greatly favoured by the Celts, although they preferred tallow lamps and bonfires using specific woods to modern candles we use today. Candle rituals are specific to the individual, but there are a few simple rules to follow unless the ritual specifies otherwise. To perform a spell to increase or obtain, burn during a waxing moon (the period leading up to the full moon). To decrease or remove, burn during a waning moon (the period after the full moon).

Use candles of a specific colour relevant to your spell. Anoint the candle with incense or oil, working from bottom to top for a spell to increase or from top to bottom for a spell to remove. You may also wish to etch words, such s your desires or the name of the deity to whom you are appealing, along the side of the candle to strengthen the purpose of the spell. When performing a ritual with a candle, unless otherwise stipulated, allow the candle to burn out to the end.

 

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Celtic Witchcraft – A Distinct Tradition

In the last decade or so, people have been obsessed with anything that is Celtic, from myth to music.

While witchcraft based on the Celtic tradition has been increasing in popularity, there are many followers who are still not very sure about how this kind of witchcraft is different from the other types of Pagan worship.

This is the kind of witchcraft that loves the earth and it also believes strongly in theology. As such, Gods and Goddesses are important to the followers of this form of Wicca.

The Celtic witchcraft identifies two chief deities. These are the Horned God and the Mother Goddess. Celtic Wiccans do worship other deities as well apart from these two deities, but these are by far the most prominent figures in this tradition.

The Celtic Wiccans are of the opinion that all goddesses and gods are one – but that the Horned God and the Earth Mother Goddess possess real authority. Another deity who is worshipped to a similar degree the Triple Goddess who is identified as the maiden, the mother and the crone. This underlines the female aspect to Celtic Mythology.

The followers of this religion carry out the same magic/rituals as other Wiccans. They tend to celebrate the same holidays or sabbats and they are also very dedicated to spirituality – just like any other Craft member.

Perhaps the main difference between the Celtic followers and other Wiccans is that when it comes to the Celtic tradition, their brand of Magick pervades everything, and it has a very ancient sense of history. Celtic-themed tattoos, jewelry, everyday items and artworks have the presence of magic and they hark back to an ancient but much cherished past.

The religious leaders of the Celts were the druids, a profession that now has a strong modern follower. Those were intelligent priestesses and priests that possessed the perfect blend of magic and wisdom. Only the most respected members of Celtic society rose to the level of becoming a druid. There was a time when the priesthood of the druids included only the females. However, this changed later on and the druidic orders started to accept males too. Again, this points to the very strong female basis that underpins the Celtic outlook on life.

Druidesses were said to be of three classes or categories.

DruidsThe first class was the celibate class and the priestesses of this class lived in convents. The other two levels of Druidesses had the freedom to marry and live with their husbands. They could also live in the temples.

The Celtic Wiccans of today are extremely spiritual people and you will be able to see this when you see how much work they put in to their worship. They are also very dedicated to earth as well as their gods and goddesses. While at first glance there seems to be very little difference between the Celtic followers and other Wiccans from all over the world, they have an outlook and a world view that is quite unique.

However, the fact remains that the Celtic Wiccans have a lot in common with non-Celtic Wiccans worldwide. The philosophy and ‘world view’ which emphasizes the power of nature remains central amongst all Wiccans.

When it comes to Magick, the Celts have woven it into each and every aspect of their lives. This outlook often has complete acceptance amongst all followers. If a person wishes to become a Celtic Wiccan then he or she will have to completely believe in magic and accept it into his or her life. People consider magic as normal as smiling, sleeping and breathing.

The Celts honor the earth’s essential elements like air, water, earth and fire in their rituals and they also pay respect to the deities that represent these elements. Rituals are held by the Celtic Wiccans to pay respect to the Sabbats, the different solstices and the various seasons. Harking back and celebrating the ancient past in a constant in these ceremonies.

The Celts believe that numbers are of vital importance to them and some of the numbers that have special meaning. These include 13, 9, 7, 5 and 3. The Celts are also of the opinion that rituals are of vital importance for their magic.

They pay attention to each and every minute aspect when it comes to creating a setting for Magick, such as using candles and incense, the necessary tools and wearing the correct ceremonial robes.

What you may not know is that the Celts are very religious people. In the ancient Celtic nations, women who had children were given a higher ranking in society than women who were virgins. This was because the Celts prized fertility.

For many, the Celts represent a freedom and an alternative society to the modern day one. The ancient Celts of northern Europe strongly resisted the advance of ‘civilization’, in the form of the Roman Empire, upon their lands.

They were outsiders and connected directly to the land, so the idea of instead aligning themselves with a foreign emperor clashed directly with their beliefs. It is this free-spirited nature that still attracts people to the Celtic ideal.

 

Reference

Cormac O’Dwyer, Librarian and Senior Witch
7 Witches Coven

A Laugh for Today

Spell for Today – Banishing ritual

This Banishing Ritual is very intense and powerful like many of my other Rituals such as the Full and Dark Moon Rituals. This ritual should be done as close to the Dark Moon as possible. This ritual is for someone(s) who has done you harm by gossip, lies, deceit, etc. Because you are calling on the Goddess Hecate and Her powers to aid you, please make sure that you are completely innocent of the situation.

This ritual is for someone(s) who has done you harm by gossip, lies, deceit, etc. Because you are calling on the Goddess Hecate and Her powers to aid you, please make sure that you are completely innocent of the situation.

If you do not know who the person is, or are not positively sure, do not mention any names. Leave that to the Dark Goddess, as She knows.

This ritual deals with the use of parchment paper (or regular paper, if you do not have it). Gather all your material that you need for this ceremony. If using a lit charcoal in the cauldron of Hecate, make sure that the charcoal is hot enough to burn your parchment paper. If you are going to light the parchment paper from the Goddess candle to put in the cauldron, then there is no need to worry about any charcoal after you cleanse the temple room. You will need piece of parchment paper, patchouli oil or clove oil to sprinkle on the parchment paper. (If you do not have any of these oils, that is fine. But I would suggest perhaps ordering some of these oils from a Witchcraft supply store for future use. ) You will also need Dragon?s Blood ink or your magickal pen. Before ritual, on a small piece of parchment paper, write down what has been done to you either with Dragon?s Blood ink and a feather or your magickal pen which you have only used for magickal workings. Then put a few dabs of Patchouli or Clove oil on the parchment paper. Fold the parchment paper in half and put a banishing pentagram on top and bottom of the folded paper.

RITUAL

After meditating and getting yourself focused and centered, cast and cleanse your circle in the manner you are accustomed to, or you can use the Circle Casting chant either from the Full or Dark Moon Ritual which I prepared. In casting a Circle and calling in the Watchtowers, I go deosil no matter the time of the Moon. When I take the ritual down, I go widdershins in dismissing the Watchtowers and calling back the Circle. To me, when when “closing” a bottle, you go deosil. So, in casting a circle you are closing and making it air tight; when opening a bottle, you go widdershins. So in opening the circle, you are once again letting anything back in. Also, since this is a Dark Moon ritual, and you are working with the Crone and Her energies, there is no need to call in any God. Moon rituals are sacred and for the Goddess only. You call in the Goddess and God at Sabbats, as the Sabbats are the interaction between the Goddess and her Consort…between Earth and Sun. And the Moon……is for the Goddess only!

Calling in the Dragon Watchtowers. (Dragons are great protectors and are also the ones who pulls Hecate?s Chariot.)

Move to the East – raise your wand and say

Hail, Great Dragon of the East

Whose yellow eyes see all in the Element of Air

I do summon, stir, and call thee up to attend this rite

and call upon your forces to protect and defend me this night!

(Light the candle and draw an evoking pentagram into the air)

Move to the South – raise your wand and say

Hail Great Dragon of the South

Whose red eyes see all in the Element of Fire!

I do summon, stir, and call thee up to attend this rite

and call upon your forces to protect and defend me this night.

(Light the candle and draw an evoking pentagram into the air)

Move to the West – raise your arm and say

Hail, Great Dragon of the West,

Whose blue eyes see all in the Element of Water

I do summon, stir and call thee up to attend this rite

and call upon your forces to protect and defend me this night

(Light the candle and draw an evoking pentagram into the air)

Move to the North – raise your arm and say

Hail, Great Dragon of the North

Whose green eyes see all in the Element of Earth

I do summon, stir, and call thee up to attend this rite

and call upon your forces to protect and defend me this night.

(Light the candle and draw an evoking pentagram into the air)

Go back to the East and make an envoking pentagram and say:

The Circle is sealed and I am

completely cut off from the outside world

in order to perform my magickal workings in

sending back all the evil that has been sent against me

Lighting of the Triple Goddess Candles – (optional)

Three Candles do I light

In Honor of Thee, O Goddess this Dark Moon Night

White for the Maiden pure as snow

Red for the Mother full within

Black for the Crone, old and wise.

(Light each candle as you address each Gddess)

Evoke the Goddess – raise your hands up high

Oh Great Goddess of Darkness, the Sorceress

who will not be ruled, the Weaver of time,

The teacher of Mysteries.

O Hecate, you who slit the throats of the cruel and drink

the blood of the heartless, yet are the shining sword

that protects us from harm.

You are the healer of wounds;

the Warrior who rights all wrongs.

You make the weak strong and the arrogant humble,

and you are Justice tempered with Mercy.

I call upon you Dark Goddess Hecate to attend this rite

and to send back all the evil that has been sent against me.

(Light the Dark Goddess candle)

Prayer to the Dark Goddess Hecate of your plight

Dark Mother, Queen of the Night, there are

those who stand against me.

Let their efforts fail. Let them go down into darkness

Let them stand in your Courts

May their efforts always be lost in the darkness

with no light to guide them.

I am your child Dark Mother, protect me!

Dark Mother, help me to reach my goals, live my life to the fullest,

and walk the path of the Goddess.

Sweep away all barriers built by those who want me to fail.

(Now…..your intent – holding your parchment paper over your cauldron say with total conviction and emotion from deep within your heart. Poor the anger into your words for the injustice done to you. Do not just say the words, but feel the words)

Crush the evil sent against me!

Sweep its evil remains back int the bodies and brains of those who sent it!

The evil is dead…the attackers taste their just rewards!

The mouths are full of ashes, their thoughts of nightmares

their lives of unfulfillment!

Hecate, Dark One, hear my plea,

Bring justice now, I ask of Thee!

Right the wrongs that have been done,

Avenge me now, oh Mighty One

Light your parchment paper by the Goddess candle and then put it in the Cauldron of Hecate and release you requests to Her and watch it burn. As you are watching it burn, envision the darkness/negativity being lifted from you and returning to the sender. If you know how it is, fine. If you do not, then just see the shadow of the person receiving what they had sent out. After the parchment paper is done burning say:

It is finished! (In saying this, you are now allowing the Dark Goddess Hecate to handle the situation. It is in Her hands now!)

Then say:

Oh Great Goddess, wrap me in your dark cloak and

protect me from Dark Moon to Dark Moon.

May your Dragons guard me from Dark Moon to Dark Moon.

If you have prepared for Cakes and Wine/Juice (which is in your chalice), bless them both by saying:

I bless thee of Creature of Wine and Cakes

knowing that as I drink and eat of thee

I partake in the power of the mysteries of You,

Great Goddess Hecate, the three and the one.

Libation: (Take the chalice of wine/juice in both hands and hold it up and say:)

In Honor of Thee O Great Goddess Hecate,

Do I pour this Libation and drinketh this Toast.

All life is your Own

All fruits of the Earth, your power, your wisdom

your liberation

I thank you for your blessings, strength and protection.

(Remember eating of the cakes and wine help to ground you. So it is important to eat and drink.)

If you wish to do any sort of divination and/or meditation, now is the time.

Thanking the Triple Goddess –

Wise Crone, who face is hidden from the starlit night,

Thank you for attending and witnessing my rite

on this most my sacred night.

(Put out the Crone Candle)

Mother, nurturer and giver of life

Thank you for attending and witnessing my rite

on this most sacred night.

(Put out the Mother Candle)

Maiden, bringer of new ideas and inspiration

Than you for attending and witnessing my rite

on this most sacred night

(Put out the Maiden Candle)

Thanking the Dark Goddess – Hecate

O Hecate, My Queen, My Goddess

You who awaits for me at the end of Life.

I thank you for thy blessings and of your spirit

from Your cauldron of the sacred fire this night of the Dark Moon

I bid thee farewell.

(The Goddess Candle is put out)

Releasing of the Dragons

Dragon of the East of gentle breezes and of winds

Who protected this Circle and witnessed my quests

of magick performed and all blessings poured out

Thank you for attending this rite

I release you back to your windy realm

I bid thee hair and farewell

(Put out candle and draw a banishing pentagram in the air)

Dragons of the West, of Oceans, streams and rainstorms

Who protected this Circle and witnessed my quests

of magick performed and all blessings poured out

Thank you for attending this rite

I release you back to your watery realm

I bid thee farewell

(Put out candle and draw a banishing pentagram in the air)

Dragon of the South of bright dancing flames

Who protected this Circle and witnessed my quests

of magick performed and all blessings poured out

Thank you for attending this rite

I release you back to your fiery realm

I bid thee farewell

(Put out candle and draw a banishing pentagram in the air)

Dragon of the North of forests, mountains, and land

Who protected this Circle and witnessed my quests

of magick performed and all blessings poured out

Thank you for attending this rite

I release you back to your fertile realm

I bid the farewell

(Put out candle and draw a banishing pentagram in the air)

Go back to the East and once again draw an banishing pentagram to break the seal.

Calling back the Circle – (I go widdershins to open circle, since I went deosil to create my sacred circle)

Power cast and then forgotten is power wasted

Wherefore do I call ye back O circle of Power

into my holy staff (or whatever you use)

By the holy flame, this circle disappears and becomes no more

Everything is as it was since the beginning of time.

Circle is now opened once again.

Some of the Witchcraft/Magickal Correspondence for Sunday

Magickal Intentions: Growth, Advancements, Enlightenment, Rational Thought, Exorcism, Healing, Prosperity, Hope, Exorcism, Money

Incense: Lemon, Frankincense

Planet: Sun

Sign: Leo

Angel: Michael

Colors: Gold, Yellow, Orange and White

Herbs/Plants: Marigold, Heliotrope, Sunflower, Buttercup, Cedar, Beech, Oak

Stones: Carnelian, Citrine, Tiger’s Eye, Amber, Clear Quartz and Red Agate

Oil: (Sun) Cedar, Frankincense, Neroli, Rosemary

The first day of the week is ruled by the Sun. It is an excellent time to work efforts involving business partnerships, work promotions, business ventures, and professional success. Spells where friendships, mental or physical health, or bringing joy back into life are an issue work well on this day, too.

January 29 Divination Journal

Tarot Card

From Tarotx.com

2 of Disks – Minor Arcana

Instinct Change.
Purpose Transfer.
The Light Flexibility is the positive side of change.
The Shadow Unstable.
Quality Polarity (at a higher level, all opposites are just illusions or different natural products of the same energy stream)

Menu of Contents

I. Analyze and describe 2 of Disks Thoth Tarot

II. Interpretation of 2 of Disks Thoth Tarot

1. Energy

III. Similar correlations of 2 of Disks Thoth Tarot

IV. 2 of Disks Thoth Tarot symbolism

V. 2 of Disks Thoth card in the upright and reverse

Rune

From white-magic-help.net

PERTH

Initiation, Something Concealed, A Secret Thing

Deep, inner trans formative powers are interacting, but what you are going to get out of them isn’t easy to recognize. An integrity – concealed, disguised, secretly hidden. After all, what is going to heal us and our soul is a deep mystery. On the side of the material world there probably will be surprises; unexpected profits are nothing to be excluded. Nothing less than a renewal your spirit is the risk you take. The old way found its end: You simply cannot repeat the old things any longer without suffering. However, you always have a chance: Either you see all negative as a “misfortune”, or you recognize the entire as a hindrance stretch, an inaugural way that you have to follow at this moment.

Witch’s Rune

From psychic-revelation.com

The Moon

Keywords: Change.

Meanings: The “x” marks represent the four main phases of the moon and so you can expect changes to happen within the next 28 days. This is a particularly feminine stone and often appears in response to questions about women’s issues. The Moon rune is a messenger. It is telling you to be aware that major changes are coming to your life. Consult the runes closest to it to determine whether those changes are negative or positive.

Ogham

From LearnReligions.com

Coll

C, sometimes read as K, is Coll, which is the Hazel tree. August is known as the Hazel Moon, because this is when Hazel nuts appear on the trees–the world Coll translates to “the life force inside you”, and what better symbol of life than the nut itself? Hazel is associated with wisdom and creativity and knowledge. Sometimes it is connected in Celtic lore with magical springs, sacred wells, and divination.

Hazel was a handy tree to have around. It was used by many English pilgrims to make staffs for use upon the road–not only was it a sturdy walking stick, it also provided a modicum of self-defense for weary travelers. Certainly, it could have been used as well for ritual. Hazel was used in weaving of baskets by medieval folk, and the leaves were fed to cattle because it was believed this would increase the cow’s supply of milk.

In the Irish myth cycles, there is a tale that nine hazel nuts dropped into a sacred pool. A salmon came along in the pool and gobbled up the nuts, which then imbued him with wisdom. A variation of the story appears in the legend of Finn Mac Cumhail, who ate the salmon and then took on the knowledge and wisdom of the fish. Note that Mac Cumhail is often translated as Mac Coll.

Coll Correspondences

Mundane Aspects: Take advantage of your own artistry or creativity, and share your knowledge with others so they too can practice these arts. Lead by example, and teach those who wish to learn. Find inspiration for your creative gifts, whatever your talent may be.

Magical Aspects: Let the divine guide you in your creative journey. Speak to the gods through your art, and be rewarded with inspiration. If you’re stuck in a creative rut, call upon the Divine to send you a Muse.

I Ching

Numerology

Angel Number

Animal Spirit Guide or Animal Spirit Helper

 

January 29, 2023 Daily Horoscopes

Click here to read Georgia Nicols Daily Horoscopes

Moon Alert

Avoid shopping or important decisions after 9:30 PM PST tonight. The Moon is in Taurus.

Aries (March 21-April 19)

This is a high energy day for you! You will enjoy schmoozing with friends and being busy with clubs, groups and organizations. You might have an unexpected and unusual conversation with someone in a position of authority – a boss, parent, teacher or even the police. Be careful. (Busted!)

Taurus (April 20-May 20)

You make a great impression on others today, especially people in authority. They admire your energy, your enterprise and your ambition. Meanwhile, unexpected plans to travel might suddenly appear. Others might be surprised by news in the media or changes related to medicine and the law.

Gemini (May 21-June 20)

You’re keen and energetic today! In particular, you will love to travel or do something different so that you can expand your horizons. At least, be a tourist in your own town. Do something different! You will be persuasive and convincing in discussions about politics, religion or racial issues.

Cancer (June 21-July 22)

There is an unpredictable element to today, especially when talking to close friends, partners or spouses. You have strong opinions about how to divide or share something, or deal with the resources of someone else. They might not agree. Or you might convince them to see your point of view?

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22)

You feel sociable today because you have lots of energy to talk to others. In particular, you will enjoy dealing with members of the general public. You will also be persuasive with friends and groups. Meanwhile, unexpected events at work (or with your health) might surprise you. Watch your pets.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

You have strong drive and ambition, which is why you will get a lot done today. You are also full of creative, original ideas, which you might spin to others. Social plans might suddenly change. Meanwhile, parents should know what their kids are doing.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

This is a fabulous day to socialize! Accept all invitations to party. Enjoy sports events, playful activities with kids, long luncheons, the theatre, meeting friends for Happy Hour, social outings with friends, the arts and fun times on vacations (if you can swing it). Entertain!

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

Family discussions will be vibrant and lively today. This could be due to something unexpected happening with siblings or neighbours. One thing is certain – today there is high energy and unexpected plans and events swirling around you. Stay light on your feet so that you can play this right.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

You’re persuasive and convincing today! No one will resist your charms or your rhetoric. This is also a great day for a short trip, or to learn something new and share ideas with others. You might also have great moneymaking ideas. (Keep an eye on your assets.)

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

Today Mercury is in your sign dancing with unpredictable Uranus, which makes you feel alive and mentally alert. Any bright shiny object will interest you. You would love to travel to exciting, foreign places and meet people who are different. (You might spend money to do this.)

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

Today you feel physically vigourous! You might be excited about making a new beginning in some area of your life. This is a good day to take stock and decide what projects you most want to accomplish. You feel upbeat and happy to just be yourself.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20)

You might meet a friend, especially someone younger, who is unusual today. They might influence you to change your goals. Meanwhile, you have lots of energy to pursue a secret project or something that you are working on behind the scenes.

If Your Birthday Is Today

TV host, actress Oprah Winfrey (1954) shares your birthday today. Although you can appear tough and driven on the upside, you are actually a warm, caring, sensitive person. You are loyal, philosophical and a good friend. This year is the first year of a new nine-year cycle for you. Be open minded. Be courageous. Open any door!

January 29, 2023 Moon Goddess Current Phase

You can use this link to go forward or backward in time for Moon phase information. If you are curious, you can even find out what phase the Moon was in when you or anyone else was born.

From MoonGiant.com

The Moon’s current phase for today and tonight is a Waxing Gibbous phase. Visible through most of the night sky setting a few hours before sunrise. This phase is when the moon is more than 50% illuminated but not yet a Full Moon. The phase lasts about 7 days with the moon becoming more illuminated each day until the Full Moon. During a Waxing Gibbous the moon rises in the east in mid-afternoon and is high in the eastern sky at sunset. The word Gibbous first appeared in the 14th century and has its roots in the Latin word “gibbosus” meaning humpbacked.

Visit the January 2023 Moon Phases Calendar to see all the daily moon phase for this month.

Today’s Waxing Gibbous Phase

The Waxing Gibbous on January 29 has an illumination of 59%. This is the percentage of the Moon illuminated by the Sun. The illumination is constantly changing and can vary up to 10% a day. On January 29 the Moon is 8.19 days old. This refers to how many days it has been since the last New Moon. It takes 29.53 days for the Moon to orbit the Earth and go through the lunar cycle of all 8 Moon phases.

Phase Details

Phase: Waxing Gibbous
Illumination: 59%
Moon Age: 8.19 days
Moon Angle: 0.51
Moon Distance: 389,489.47 km
Sun Angle: 0.54
Sun Distance: 147,356,695.72 km

The 8 Lunar Phases

There are 8 lunar phases the Moon goes through in its 29.53 days lunar cycle. The 4 major Moon phases are Full Moon, New Moon, First Quarter and Last Quarter. Between these major phases, there are 4 minor ones: the Waxing Crescent, Waxing Gibbous, Waning Gibbous and Waning Crescent. For more info on the Moon Cycle and on each phase check out Wikipedia Lunar Phase page.

Useful Moon Resources

Check the weather before a night of Moon gazing at weather.com

For a list of all the current meteor showers visit American Meteor Society

January 29, 2023 Northern Hemisphere’s Planetary Positions

If you need to calculate the planetary positions for a specific use and time, click on this link

Currentplanetarypositions.com

To figure out GMT (Greenwich Mean Time) to your local time use this link  

For Your Local Time and Date 

Northwestern Hemisphere

The time for these Custom Planetary Positions is from the local time in Los Angeles, California, USA

January 29, 2023
11:00 pm GMT 3:00 PM PST
Zodiac: Tropical (Standard Western)

Sun:09 Aquarius 46
Moon:25 Taurus 04
Mercury:14 Capricorn 50
Venus:03 Pisces 33
Mars:09 Gemini 52
Jupiter:05 Aries 40
Saturn:25 Aquarius 37
Uranus:14 Taurus 58
Neptune:23 Pisces 32
Pluto:28 Capricorn 36

True Lunar Node:08 Taurus 49 Rx
Mean Lunar Node:08 Taurus 40 Rx

Lilith (Black Moon):02 Leo 24

Chiron:12 Aries 34
Ceres:06 Libra 53
Pallas:12 Cancer 10 Rx
Juno:08 Aries 04
Vesta:25 Pisces 59

Eris:23 Aries 57

Fire:5
Earth:6
Air:4
Water:4
Cardinal:8
Fixed:7
Mutable:4

Northern Hemisphere

The time for these Custom Planetary Positions is from the local time in Chicago, Illinois, USA

 

January 29, 2023
09:00 pm GMT 3:00 PM CST
Zodiac: Tropical (Standard Western)

Sun:09 Aquarius 41
Moon:24 Taurus 02
Mercury:14 Capricorn 45
Venus:03 Pisces 27
Mars:09 Gemini 51
Jupiter:05 Aries 40
Saturn:25 Aquarius 36
Uranus:14 Taurus 58
Neptune:23 Pisces 32
Pluto:28 Capricorn 36

True Lunar Node:08 Taurus 49 Rx
Mean Lunar Node:08 Taurus 40 Rx

Lilith (Black Moon):02 Leo 23

Chiron:12 Aries 34
Ceres:06 Libra 53
Pallas:12 Cancer 11 Rx
Juno:08 Aries 02
Vesta:25 Pisces 57

Eris:23 Aries 57

Fire:5
Earth:6
Air:4
Water:4
Cardinal:8
Fixed:7
Mutable:4

Northeastern Hemisphere

The time for these Custom Planetary Positions is from the local time in Frankfurt, Germany, Europe

29 January 2023
02:00 pm GMT 3:00 PM CET
Zodiac: Tropical (Standard Western)

Sun:09 Aquarius 23
Moon:20 Taurus 24
Mercury:14 Capricorn 27
Venus:03 Pisces 05
Mars:09 Gemini 47
Jupiter:05 Aries 36
Saturn:25 Aquarius 34
Uranus:14 Taurus 58
Neptune:23 Pisces 32
Pluto:28 Capricorn 35

True Lunar Node:08 Taurus 50 Rx
Mean Lunar Node:08 Taurus 41 Rx

Lilith (Black Moon):02 Leo 21

Chiron:12 Aries 33
Ceres:06 Libra 53
Pallas:12 Cancer 15 Rx
Juno:07 Aries 53
Vesta:25 Pisces 49

Eris:23 Aries 57

Fire:5
Earth:6
Air:4
Water:4
Cardinal:8
Fixed:7
Mutable:4

Flashback 2011 – The Rise of Wicca and Neo–Paganism in the United States


Author: Govannon Thunderwolf

Wicca is becoming the fastest growing religion in the United States. This statement was something I was hearing and reading more and more. Being a member of the Pagan community, I didn’t really notice any of this growth happening. The more books and articles on the Internet that I read, the more I kept seeing this statement. The research into this declaration became my focus of interest. What fascinated me the most about this account was the fact that Wiccans and neo – Pagans do not go around with the specific intent of finding converts. In the teachings and ideas of Wicca and Paganism, the idea of looking for converts is not encouraged and is looked down upon. Anyone seeking converts into Wicca or Paganism is breaking a cardinal rule.

Even though Wicca is generally a female dominated religion, there are men involved as well. Wicca is a religion that recognizes women and men as equals, but it does put a slight emphasis on women and the Goddess. Female witches out number males two to one in the United States, according to the Covenant of the Goddess’s estimates. Covenant of the Goddess is one of the oldest and largest Wiccan groups in the United States. They also state that much of the recent growth in Wicca and neo – Paganism has been among women. (Sanders xiv)

Where would someone look to find followers of Wicca and Pagans? They can be found anywhere and everywhere. The actual number of Wiccan and Pagan followers in the United States changes constantly, but in 1999 Helen Berger, a sociologist who spent ten years as a member of the neo – Pagan community, estimated that there are between 150, 000 and 200, 000 Pagans in the United States. It is suspected that there are many more among the ranks of Pagans today. Berger’s census also found that California has the highest amount of Pagans living within its boundaries at 15.7 percent, followed by Massachusetts at 7.6 percent, and New York at 7.3 percent. (Sanders xiv)

While there were many contributors to the construct of Wicca since the 1890’s, there was one man, who in 1954 wrote and published Witchcraft Today, and that man was Gerald Gardner (1884 – 1964) . Even though Druidism, Witchcraft, and other forms of Paganism were originally oral traditions, their revival is attributed to written text. (Clifton 14 – 15)

Very little is known about Gerald Gardner except for what is public record. He was a civil servant for the United Kingdom, and spent most of his career in Britain’s Asian colonies before he retired and settled in southern England. Gardner was one of the many who thought it more prestigious to have learned the “craft”, a term used for Witchcraft, an elder of one’s own family. Gardner didn’t claim to have learned Wicca from an elder of his own family, but did claim to have learned it from elders with family ties that went way back many generations. For most people in the Pagan community, it was well know that Gardner was considered a bit of a pervert due to his tendency toward bondage and ritualized punishment. It came through in his writings and ideas of practice, but the resurgence of “the craft” is mainly attributed to him. The people of Britain have always made changes to religions to try and make them their own, but Wicca is the only religion that originated in the United Kingdom. (Clifton 14 – 15)

Wicca is generally a solitary religion and seventy percent of its followers are solitary, taking personal responsibility for their own religious practice, rather than following an authority figure. Without a strict set of beliefs, “each practitioner can add or subtract beliefs at will, ” this is a part of what makes Wicca so popular. (Sanders 5)

Now I will continue this paper on three main reasons that I found the most compelling reasons for people of all walks of life to be drawn to Wicca and Paganism, beginning with a concern for the Earth.

The fear of Global Warming and preserving what we now have for future generations is a major common concern among contemporary Pagans. Most of modern society has lost an important connection with nature. In some cases there is even a fear of nature. To be fearful of the natural world, in which we as human beings came from, just as all life has, is quite a cause for alarm. When the system of Wicca was originally developed, its focus was on fertility, just as the ancients were focused on fertility. As history has shown, fertility was a main concern for all people in ancient times.

Life was hard for our ancient ancestors and fertility of the land, animals, people, etc. was the only way for them to continue life and surviving. With human fertility becoming less of a concern in modern times because of improvements in science, the focus has now shifted to nature. This change is another way in which Wicca and Paganism can remain a positive religion. It is a religion that recognizes change and changes with it. If something can’t change with the times, it will get left behind and become history.

The American mainstream religions have done very little to foster concern for nature. Never, have I heard of any sermons given on how people should be encouraged to care for the environment, be good caretakers of nature, and preservation of natural resources. This again, leads many to view Paganism and Wicca more approvingly. (Sanders 22)

Paganism also acknowledges nature by following the cycles of the seasons and life. Pagans and Wiccans are encouraged to live their lives by looking to nature as their guide. They live in the here and now as opposed to living and planning for the end of life. Through this view of nature, Wiccans and Pagans acknowledge their connection to all life and the greater cosmos. Many mainstream religious writers believe that honoring nature is not enough for religion or life because it contains violence and brutality. (Harvey 187) This worldview on life and nature is the basis for Wiccans and Pagans to believe in no absolute good or evil. All things in nature are good and evil at the same time and therefore it applies to life as well.

The second reason for the attraction to Paganism and Wicca is empowerment for women. The Christian church has treated women like “second – class citizens” for much of its history. This treatment of women is also prevalent in much of the Western world as well. (Sanders 22) Many women have become quite discontent with the Christian church. When women have expressed an interest in becoming more involved in the church, they are usually directed to make coffee and teach Sunday school. With the concerns of equal rights coming more and more to the forefront in our society, how do the patriarchal religions expect women to remain subservient? (Sanders 22)

For the last several thousand years of patriarchal religions domination of the Western world, large numbers of women have been searching for a spiritual existence free from the patriarchal dogma. With Wicca’s emphasis on Goddess worship, it attracts those women who want to find a spiritual side to their feminism. (Adler 207 – 24)

The feminist views of women have been the main driving force pushing Wicca to be accepted as a religion. Not all Wiccan groups are feminist though. Most Pagans and Wiccans have a more moderate view of the feministic ideas. Feminist Wiccan groups have dropped a lot of common beliefs in the Pagan community in favor of an all female belief system. By doing such things as only recognizing the female deities and eliminating the male deities, they are alienating themselves from the rest of the Pagan and Wiccan community. (Adler 180 – 81)

Many women have become quite discontent with the Christian church. When women have expressed an interest in becoming more involved in the church, they are usually directed to make coffee and teach Sunday school. With the concerns of equal rights coming more and more to the forefront in our society, how do the patriarchal religions expect women to remain subservient? (Sanders 22)

One doesn’t need to look very hard to see the atrocities that have been committed against women in history by patriarchal societies. One common saying in modern Pagan communities that can be found imprinted on t – shirts and bumper stickers is, “Don’t forget the burning times.” This refers to the days of the infamous witch-hunts. Malleus Maleficarum (The Hammer of Evildoers) published in 1486/87 by Jacob Spenger and Heinrich Krämer was the authoritative witch hunter’s manual. One key phrase from this manual that modern Pagan writers like to quote is: “All witchcraft comes from carnal lust, which in women is insatiable.” (Clifton 100) This “authoritative” work also stated that women were created from the bent rib of Adam, therefore women are “imperfect animals” if they are even animals at all. (Pearson 302)

In the Malleus Maleficarum, inquisitors, the ones who were authorized to verify involvement in witchcraft, were informed that guilty women would make sexual pacts with Satan. Therefore, after this pact was made, any event in the local community that disrupted the well being of the people was most certainly caused by a witch in their ranks. (Pearson 302 – 3)

When the inquisitors were in search of a “witch”, one could be found quite readily. More often than not, the accused was just a woman that someone had a grudge against. Many also speculated that these “witches” might have been highly learned women, such as early scientists. Because of the ridiculous information contained in the Malleus Maleficarum on how to proceed with the “trials” of the accused, there generally was “no mistake” of finding them guilty. Guilty women and a few men as well, were relatively few in the colonies of America. On the other hand, in Europe the numbers of the accused were astronomical. Imagine the amount of people that lost their lives due to the feelings of resentment of some sort or other, such as the amount of land they owned or a person’s general success. Many Wiccans and Pagans feel that the amount of people who were actually true witches during these “trials” was closer to none. (Gibson 112 – 18)

The final main reason that I would like to point out for the attraction of Wicca and Paganism is the attraction of the supernatural. While Pagans and Wiccans accept the belief in an unseen world, forces, and entities, many, if not all, Christian churches, in these modern times, ignore this belief. In many cases, a person could stir up quite a bit of trouble for themselves by stating a belief in an unseen world in the Christian church. (Sanders 23 – 26)

Reading ones future by using tarot cards and runes are very popular forms of divination among Pagans and Wiccans. There are many other popular forms of divination and occult sciences such as the use of crystals. Even though many of these beliefs forms were allowed by Christianity in their early years of development, now these systems have no place in Christianity. Many people have speculated when and why this shift occurred. Modern science has been trying to validate these occult sciences for quite some time now, but with limited success. The simple fact that the occult sciences are being tested gives valid support in their existence. (Handbook of Contemporary 425)

There are still many things in the world that can’t be explained by modern science. In the acknowledgement of this fact is where modern Pagans revel. It still gives room for belief in the ideas of fairies, mythical beings, and other such beliefs.

Discussions of the supernatural will quickly conjure up visions and ideas in relation to recent popular movies such as Harry Potter, The Seeker, Lord of the Rings, and many, many other movies. While these movies and books quickly catch the imagination, their similarities to actual supernatural occurrences are very, very limited. For the most part, these movies and books are purely fantasy. Even so, there have been some Christian based groups that are in opposition of these forms of entertainment. They believe that it sways people, especially children, to take an interest in Wicca and Paganism. (Handbook of New 459 – 60)

As Catherine Edwards Sanders, a Christian journalist, points out, “most Wiccans [and Pagans] have thought more seriously about spirituality and some of life’s big questions than many in the secular and even Christian cultures. They have not been content to skate through life seeking the gods of fashion, peer pressure, or materialism, reserving religion for weekends and special holidays.” (30)

Most Pagans and Wiccans actually view their lives as being interconnected with the rest of the world as a whole. They realize that there are, in fact, fewer events in their lives through this interconnection with the rest of the world.

With the impending end of the Mayan calendar in 2012, there have been many theories in reference to the end of the world. In fact, recently the “dooms day” movies have been coming out more and more frequently. One can only speculate that as 2012 draws nearer, the apocalyptic world movies and theories will by coming out at a frantic pace.

In the Wiccan and Pagan groups though, ideas of the world coming to an end are not so prevalent. Many think that the date of 12 December 2012 will be a beginning of a ‘New World Age.’ Many experts believe that this will be an age of peace and interconnection with the rest of the world and beyond for the next 5, 200 years. The experts are also saying that the ‘veil’ that separates our world from the spirit world will be lifted. The descendents of the Ancient Mayan’s say that we are already in the twenty – five year timeline of this change. (Rennison np.)

This information of the coming change according to the Mayan calendar is something that modern Pagans and Wiccans are looking forward to.

In conclusion, is there a rise in the Wicca and Pagan belief system? Given the research, the answer would definitely be a resounding yes. The movement is very broad and difficult to pin down, but it has been noticed. Many authors and professionals are calling on others to try and do research on the subject. With others taking an interest in the movement, maybe someone or maybe a group of individuals will come forward with some new views or theories on this movement. With these new views and theories we can only hope to find a definite reason for this shift.

Until then, there will be many I’m sure who will take on this daunting task. There are hundreds of theories already studied or in the process of being studied. I’m sure that there are many other ideas out there that have not yet been discussed or found in the public forum. With the case of the ancient Mayans, their descendants have said that there is plenty more information that they are in possession of, but have yet to let the rest of the world know about it. Whether there is more information yet to come remains to be seen.

I’m sure that there other ancient civilizations out there that have possessed knowledge or information, now lost. Unfortunately, just as these civilizations have disappeared, so has their immediate knowledge of this information. They did leave behind recordings of information that are in the processes of being deciphered and theories investigated. The only problem is that many individuals in the modern world have a very difficult time believing what the ancients were saying. This in turn leads to very different ideas in what is being told, many times the information is right there, but many misinterpret the information only because the obvious is just too difficult to comprehend.

 


Footnotes:
Works Cited:

Adler, Margot. Drawing Down the Moon Witches, Druids, Goddess-Worshippers, and Other Pagans in America. New York: Penguin (Non-Classics) , 2006. Print.
Berger, Helen A., Evan A. Leach, and Leigh S. Shaffer. Voices from the Pagan Census A National Survey of Witches and Neo-Pagans in the United States (Studies in Comparative Religion) . New York: University of South Carolina, 2003. Print.
Clifton, Chas S. Her Hidden Children: the Rise of Wicca and Paganism in America. Lanham: AltaMira, 2006. Print.
Gibson, Marion H. Witchcraft Myths in American Culture. New York: Routledge, 2007. Print.
Handbook of New Age (Brill Handbooks on Contemporary Religion) . New York: Brill Academic, 2007. Print.
Handbook of Contemporary Paganism (Brill Handbooks on Contemporary Religion) . New York: Brill Academic, 2009. Print.
Harvey, Graham. Contemporary Paganism Listening People, Speaking Earth. New York: NYU, 2000. Print.
Pearson, Joanne. Belief Beyond Boundaries Wicca, Celtic Spirituality and the New Age (Religion Today-Tradition, Modernity and Change) . Grand Rapids: Ashgate, 2002. Print.
Sanders, Catherine. Wicca’s Charm Understanding the Spiritual Hunger Behind the Rise of Modern Witchcraft and Pagan Spirituality. Wheaton: Shaw, 2005. Print.
“Susan Rennison’s Website.” Susan Joy Rennison’s Website. Web. 18 Dec. 2009. .

A Thought for Today

Dear sisters, brothers, and honored guests may the Great Mother and Great Father, Lord and Lady, bless you and your family with all things positive!

Why No Regular Posts Some Days?

In case you have or are wondering why Lady Beltane does not post some days, I am here to explain that.

I am a firm believer that if my energy is not positive due to mental or physical or spiritual unease and is therefore negative. So, I will not post as that negative energy will go into whatever I am typing and posting which would bring negativity into everyone who reads the posts lives.

My personal life like so many peoples does not stay on a smooth even flow, I have ups and downs just like all other humans and even our magickal companions or our non-magickal  pets. So please understand it is not because I am just being lazy and saying, “People can wait for the birthday horoscope or whatever else posts to I am good and ready to sit at my desk and put the work into WOTC.”

I thank each and every one of you that follows and reads my posts daily. I whole heartly thank you for the support and understanding given to me when I am not up to sitting at my desk for 4 to 6 hours to research and post every day.

Weekly Horoscope Sunday, January 29 to Saturday, February 4, 2023

Click here to read Georgia Nicols Daily Horoscopes

All Signs

This is a lovely, laid-back week with lots of positive energy. It’s an excellent time for creative projects because we will more easily think out-of-the-box and be open to fresh ideas. At the end of the week, power struggles and manipulations are possible, so steer clear of bossy types. On Thursday, (Feb. 2.) it’s Groundhog Day. I find it curious that no one ever calls it Woodchuck Day, even if they didn’t know how much wood would a woodchuck chuck, if a woodchuck could chuck wood. But really, it’s a heart-warming tradition based on the odds that if a groundhog pops his head out of the ground and sees a Maple Leaf, we get six more weeks of hockey.

Aries (March 21-April 19)

This is a popular week for you, which means you’ll be out there flying your colours! Everyone wants to see your face because lucky Jupiter is in your sign (something that happens only once every 12 years). This makes you exuberant, enthusiastic and feeling lucky! This is a lovely blessing because Jupiter in your sign will boost your self-confidence and increase your self-poise. Be smart and make the most of this blessing until Jupiter leaves your sign to move into Taurus mid-May. Enjoy schmoozing with others this week but be aware that at the end of the week, a friend or a group will surprise you. They will say or do something you least expect. “Ladies and gentlemen, start your engines.”

Taurus (April 20-May 20)

The Sun is still at the top of your chart casting you in a symbolic spotlight that is flattering. This means you look good to others, especially authority figures. Obviously, you will be approached by others to take on increased responsibilities because they see you as competent and capable. (Smile and take a bow, especially when the spotlight of the Sun is helping you. Always take credit when you can.) Nevertheless, a boss, parent or someone in a position of authority might throw you a curveball at the end of the week. You might feel angry, surprised or rebellious. Ready to flip the bird. Don’t do this because you gain nothing by burning bridges. (You never know when you might need to cross them again.)

Gemini (May 21-June 20)

It’s amazing that fiery Mars has been in your sign since mid-August! (It will stay until late March.) This pumps your energy! Surely, you have noticed. (“Don’t call me Shirley.”) This is another week of high energy for you. With fair Venus at the top of your chart, you look charming and diplomatic to everyone. Your urge to travel and do anything to expand your world continues to be strong. However, towards the end of the week, travel plans might suddenly change. They could be delayed, cancelled or alternatively, you might have to travel. Likewise sudden and unexpected news related to legal matters, your health or publishing and the media might also catch you off guard. Nevertheless, this is a strong, pleasant week!

Cancer (June 21-July 22)

You continue to look fabulous in the eyes of others because lucky Jupiter is at the top of your chart where it will stay for some months. This makes you look successful in the eyes of others. Even affluent! (What they don’t know is none of their business.) Travel opportunities favour you now, especially travel for pleasure. Some of you will discover new love or an exciting flirtation with a person who is “different.” Do be aware that something sudden and unexpected will happen toward the end of the week that affects inheritances, wills, estates, shared property and possibly your debt. Stay top of red-tape paperwork so that you know what’s happening. You snooze, you lose.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22)

Gifts and goodies from others continue to come your way. In fact, all kinds of financial negotiations will favour you now because discussions about wills, inheritances and shared property will be resolved in a way that benefits you. Romance is also sweet and passionate this week. Small wonder that your primary focus is on your closest relationships – partnerships, spouses and friends. In a curious way, you have more objectivity and ability to see how you react with others, which gives you a chance to improve your people skills. This is also a productive week because you are taking a hands-on approach to things.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

Your desire to be productive, efficient and effective is still strong. This is why you feel proud of your accomplishments this week. Not only do you want to excel in what you do, you would also like to improve your health as well. Meanwhile, relations with partners and close friends are warm and friendly; while relations with kids and romantic partners are playful and intellectually stimulating. Get ready for some kind of interruption to your work (and possibly your health) at the end of the week. This could include a breakdown of equipment or a breakdown with authority figures. You will handle this smoothly because Venus is opposite your sign honing your diplomatic skills.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

This continues to be play city for you, which is why you’re enjoying restaurants, movies, the theatre, sports and accepting invitations to socialize more than usual. You are a social sign but this month it’s over-the-top! Make an effort to look good because when you feel good about how you look, you’re more charming than ever. (Looking good boosts your confidence.) Be prepared for unexpected changes to social plans at the end of the week. Likewise, parents should be extra vigilant because Friday and Saturday are accident-prone times for your kids. Keep an eye on them. This is an excellent week to make your workspace more attractive. It’s also a good time to be friendly with work colleagues. “Hey guys, I brought bagels!”

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

Home, family (and perhaps a parent) are your focus now. Nevertheless, socializing, sports events and opportunities for romantic delights are exciting. Plus, your sex drive is amped! These are positive influences, plus the fact that you can improve your job – and your health – in the coming year! Meanwhile, if you want to think back to 1994, you might see that you are in a similar time loop. Much of what was occurring in 1994 might be coming your way again. Be patient with family members at the end of the week. Yes, they can be frustrating; nevertheless, family is gold. When things are tough, family is where you turn for help and support. (For most of us.)

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

You are a futuristic sign who likes to plan ahead. It might help you to know that you are now entering a window that is similar to what you experienced in 1994-1995. But this time, the change is that you are more playful and fun-loving. You want to enjoy yourself. In particular, you want to escape on vacations this year! This week is busy with short trips, errands and appointments. You will enjoy redecorating and entertaining at home. However: be careful because on Friday and Saturday, you are in an accident-prone window. At the least, your daily routine will change. At the worst, you might encounter a serious upset. Pay attention to everything you say and do.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

Thoughts of financial security are on your mind. Many of you are organizing your possessions to be more efficient. What to keep. What to recycle. What to give away. In fact, you are entering a similar window to the time back around 1994-95 when many of you had job changes or residential moves. This influence has returned once again. However, one difference is that this year, home and real estate are beautifully favoured. Enjoy conversations with others because your words are sweet and charming. In fact, not only do you enjoy the company of everyone around you, you also have a great appreciation for the beauty of your daily surroundings. This is a blessing.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

You have so much to look forward to because life will get so much better for you this year. (Wait until spring before you feel this shift in a big way.) Meanwhile, this is a lovely time for you because the Sun is in your sign, which happens for four weeks only once a year. This is why you feel energized and confident! Money, gifts and goodies will come your way. Quiet research behind the scenes appeals to you. You have lots of energy to play, flirt and enjoy sports and fun activities with children. Nevertheless, do be aware that by the end of the week, you might feel rebellious about something. An event will shake up your routine!

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20)

In many ways, this continues to be a low-key time for you as your personal year comes to an end and you wait for your birthday to arrive. Nevertheless, with Venus in your sign, you’re schmoozing with everyone. You will also enjoy buying wardrobe goodies, boots and shoes. Since late summer, your home routine has been interrupted by chaotic activity, which has been challenging. It makes you feel that you are out of control in your private world. Fear not. In two months, you will start to take charge once again. In fact, you’re entering a two-year window very similar to what began in 1994-95. Thoughts?

January 23 to January 29 Astronomy Pictures of the Day

These are the Astronomy Picture of the Day for the proceeding week starting on the past Monday through this Sunday. Just click on the hyperlink next to the date for the pictures you want to see.

2023 January 29: Barnard 68: Dark Molecular Cloud
2023 January 28: Comet ZTF over Mount Etna
2023 January 27: Comet ZTF: Orbital Plane Crossing
2023 January 26: Active Galaxy NGC 1275
2023 January 25: LDN 1622: The Boogeyman Nebula
2023 January 24: LHS 475 b: Earth Sized Exoplanet
2023 January 23: The Colliding Spiral Galaxies of Arp 274