Power and Astrology

One of the dangers of astrology lies in the power imbalance between the astrologer and the client. This is often magnified in the Vedic context because of the prevalence of the concept of karma in the minds of both parties. The astrologer attempts to outline the karma of the client. Freewill is minimized or eliminated. The astrologer can outline the future or life purpose of the client and this can create a gratitude in the client. What else can it create? A fascination, a worshipping, and a dependence. The astrologer assumes an exalted pseudo-spiritual position. He alone can see what is best for the client.

This may have few effects in most balanced people, but in some types of people that frequent astrologers, balance may be lacking. Typically visit astrologers when they are in distress and are vulnerable. They are highly suggestible to a trusted source. They are therefore susceptible to falling for a charismatic person who takes them over and relieves them of their own autonomy. Of course, there is less likelihood of abuse if the astrologer is honorable. Even there, however, dependence can still be created. People dependent on astrologers live in fear, without joy and spontaneity.

Some people cannot cope with life. They need help from religion, from beliefs, from leaders. The search for security and escape from uncertainty and anxiety is a lifelong quest for most people. There may be a fine line, however, between the normal human need to minimize the anxiety of existence through bonds with others and spiritual beliefs and when these needs become too pronounced that they lead to an unhealthy dependence on astrologers and religious leaders.

Some people want to give up their power to others -- it is their only way to function. Voluntary submission. If these options for submission were removed, the liberal in us would be well pleased but it would force some people into a painful state of freedom. Freedom of choice and an unrestrained will are just not on for some people, although perhaps they should be given as much chance as possible to discover if they truly wish to relinquish their power.


Christopher Kevill
http://modernvedicastrology.com


---
Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free.
Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com).
Version: 6.0.714 / Virus Database: 470 - Release Date: 7/2/04

Saturn

How bad is Saturn? It's a frequent question, especially by people who have it prominently placed in their charts or who have it bearing down on their ascendant by transit. Like all the other planets, it changes it capacity for good or ill depending on the other factors that are influencing and influencing the other key points in the horoscope. It is widely believed that having transit Saturn conjoining one's ascendant is never a happy time and I think this is correct more often than not. However, not all Saturn's are created equal and not all ascendants have the same ability to roll with Saturn's punches. Without offsetting favourable influences on transit or natal Saturn, a Saturn transit to the ascendant can bring loss, isolation, failure and loneliness. As a default position, this is usually the best assumption to make, and then one has to elaborate a more nuanced and balanced interpretation from the other factors at work.

Perhaps that is how we should interpret the natural malefics: start with a default negative position of their effects, and then work backwards to incorporate more specific effects that can mute its bad side. At times, they will be influenced by so many positive factors, that the results will ultimately beneficial. The malefic becomes a benefic.


Christopher Kevill
http://modernvedicastrology.com


---
Outgoing mail is certified Virus Free.
Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com).
Version: 6.0.714 / Virus Database: 470 - Release Date: 7/2/04