Sunday, March 14, 2010

Next Exams

The next FAA Exam is the ADVANCED TECHNIQUES EXAM

This is a 4 week at home exam

May 25th - Jun 22nd 2010

The closing date for applications is: 17th May 2010
(A $10 late fee will apply to applications received after this date)

The fee for the Examination is $140.00
Payment must be made by Cheque or Money Order or by Direct Credit
The APPLICATION FORM can be downloaded from the FAA website - http://www.faainc.org.au

The Exam System includes:

FAA Exam Board
FAA Diploma of Astrology upgrades
FAA Advanced Diploma of Astrology.

There are Four exams that make up the FAA Diploma of Astrology. Each exam may be attempted in any order and there is no time limit to complete all four exams. It is not necessary to successfully complete one assessment in order to do another. Any person may apply to sit an exam, the only requirement is that the candidate must be a financial member of an affiliated FAA association. More exam information -

1. Interpretation - offered February
2. Advanced Techniques - offered May
3. Calculation - offered August
4. Dynamic - offered October

Awards

The FAA Exam Board Silver Medal (Allan Johnson/Doris Greaves award) is awarded to the candidate achieving the highest national aggregate mark in each exam. In December each year, the Board reviews the results all four exams completed by the recipients of the FAA Diploma of Astrology (formerly FAA Practioners Certificate) in the previous 12 months. The person with the highest national aggregate mark attained over all four exams (80% or higher) will receive the Board of Examiners Gold Medal for Excellence.

Exam Papers

All exams are presented in draft form to exam board members for proof reading and comment. Every attempt is made to ensure errors or inconsistencies are removed and that the standard of papers is maintained.

Review System

Candidates will be given 30 days from receiving notice of their results to request a review of their papers. Such requests should be addressed to the coordinator in writing via post, email or fax. The fee for the review of the first question of each paper will be $50. Any further questions will be reviewed at a cost of $40 each to the candidate. The questions to be reassessed will be reviewed by a marker other than the one who originally marked the question. The reviewing marker's results will be final, and no further appeal allowed

Confidentiality

Candidates are issued with a candidate number when their application for an exam is processed by the Exam Board Director. All completed exam papers are forwarded to examiners for marking using candidate numbers only so that full anonymity is maintained between candidate and examiner. At no time will the person marking the exam know the identity of the candidate's paper being marked.

Sunday, March 7, 2010

Australian Exam Dates

Interpretation

22/02/10 to 22/03/10

12 February 2010

4 weeks at Home



Advanced

25/05/10 to 22/06/10

15 May 2010

4 weeks at Home


Calculation

22 August 2010

26 July 2010

3.5 hr Supervised


Dynamic

05/10/09 to 02/11/09

04/10/10 to 01/11/10

25 September 2009

24 September 2010

4 weeks at Home

Application forms will be available on the Exam Board Website approximately 2 months before each examination commences.
Applications close approximately 2 weeks prior to Exam commencement, except the Calculation Exam which closes at least 3 weeks prior.
A $10 late fee applies to applications received after the closing date.
Closing dates are indicated on the respective application form.

FAA Exam History

The Foundations

The Federation of Australian Astrologers was founded on 8th July 1970* and became an incorporated association on 16th January 1995**. At the time of founding, there were many astrology schools across Australia, but no consistent syllabus for astrological study or examinations and no nationally recognised standards.

The FAA’s Constitution lists under the heading ‘Objects’ (Purpose) the following statement to ‘conduct (astrological) examinations and award diplomas or other documents evidencing the performance of candidates in those examinations.’ The inclusion of this purpose was due to the aspiration of the FAA to develop nationally recognised astrology qualifications towards the advancement of professionalism within astrology.

Among those leading the founding of the FAA were two highly esteemed Australian astrologers Doris Greaves and Allan Johnson who were both highly dedicated to astrological education. In 1971 Allan Johnson, with the approval of his FAA colleagues undertook the creation of an astrological examination system that would be available to student astrologers across Australia. There became an increasing number of students keen to sit these exams and Allan worked tirelessly and single-handed for over ten years to set and mark the FAA Certificate and Diploma exams.

The Next Advances

In 1983, in Sydney NSW, there was a meeting of many of Australia’s prominent astrology teachers, including Allan. They came together with the aim to begin to develop a standardised FAA teaching syllabus as the FAA Exam System had highlighted the differences in terminology and teaching methods across Australia. The outcome of this meeting was that Allan presented the new syllabus outline to the FAA National Executive as the basis for the FAA Certificates in Astrology. The FAA National Council approved the syllabus outline as the standard for the FAA Exams and qualifications.
A second outcome from the same meeting was that two established teaching astrologers joined Allan to assist him to set and mark the FAA exams. In 1985 this group became known as the FAA Board of Examiners and by 1986 there were seven members. The Exam Board (the abbreviated term commonly use today) included astrology teachers from each Australian State and a coordinator who assisted the FAA Exam Board with administration and coordination.
During 1986 there was some fine-tuning of the Exam syllabus to clarify terms and finalise the standards resulting in a nationally recognised and agreed syllabus. With the syllabus finalised the first FAA Exams were set and marked to this new standard in 1987.

At this point, the Exam Board also began to meet regularly and to pool their collective knowledge with a view to continue to develop and refine the FAA examination system.

By 1992 the levels of qualification were the:

FAA Basic Certificate
Attainment of the Basic Certificate meant the student had a good basic working knowledge of astrology but needed to gain more experience and knowledge to be qualified as a practitioner of astrology. The exam consisted of Part A the supervised 3.5 hour calculation exam and Part B of short essays on interpretation of a birth chart for which 3 weeks at home completion was allowed.

A condition was placed that once students gained the Basic Certificate they needed wait at least 12 months before sitting for the next level of Practitioner so they could gain adequate experience and knowledge before attempting the Practitioner’s Exam.

FAA Practitioner’s Certificate (prerequisite FAA Basic Certificate)
Attainment of the Practitioner’s Certificate indicated that the person had a depth of knowledge and experience to provide astrological consultations. The exam was an 8 week at home exam requiring essays to be written to cover dynamic chart interpretation plus advanced techniques.

FAA Diploma (prerequisite FAA Practitioner’s Certificate)
When these qualifications were put into place, a ‘grandfather’ clause that expired in 1992 was agreed to allow for those who had obtained a Basic Certificate but wished to still complete the FAA Diploma could do so without also completing the Practitioner’s Certificate.

Accredited Astrology Teacher (AAT)
A qualification created in 1989 that was awarded to teachers who on application could evidence that they were teaching to the FAA syllabus and had a set number of students who had passed the FAA Basic Certificate.

Awards

In 1993 the Allan Johnson Silver and Gold medals for exam candidates were introduced and named in recognition of Allan’s many years of dedication to the development of the FAA Exam System. The Silver Medal was awarded for the Basic Certificate and Gold Medal for the Practitioner’s Certificate with the medals being presented to the student with the overall highest aggregate marks for the relevant examination each year.

2000 and onwards
In January 2000 the FAA Examiners Board, based on student feedback, their experience as Examiner’s plus input from many teachers presented to the FAA National Council a proposal to change the FAA Examination System. The concept was to create an exam system that was more flexible with the introduction of four exam modules, Calculation, Interpretation (together the equivalent of the Basic Certificate), Dynamics and Advanced Techniques (the equivalent of the Practitioner’s Certificate). This system would allow students to complete the examination modules in any order as they gained experience and knowledge. Once all four modules were successfully completed, the student would gain the FAA Practitioner’s Certificate.
This proposal, that coincided with the first Saturn return of the original FAA Exam System (the Exams began in 1971 with Saturn in Gemini), was accepted by the FAA National Council in January 2000. The implementation began with a ‘grandfather clause’ included for all those holding a FAA Basic Certificate allowing these members to only complete the Dynamics and Advanced Techniques modules by December 2003 to gain their FAA Practitioner’s Certificate (originally the ‘grandfather’ clause was until Dec 2002 but this was extended for 12 months).

Awards 2000
At this point as there were now four examinations it was agreed that the following awards or Silver Medals, be presented for the highest aggregate mark in each examination (all modules are now officially called examinations).

The Allan Johnson Silver Medal to be awarded for the highest aggregate marks in the Calculation Examination and the Dynamic Examination.

The Doris Greaves Silver Medal to be awarded for the highest aggregate marks in the Interpretation and the Advanced Techniques Examinations.

The Allan Johnson Gold Medal became the FAA Examination Board Gold Medal of Excellence to be awarded each year to an exam candidate who had gained their Practitioners Certificate during the past 12 months and achieved the highest aggregate marks for all four examinations (aggregate 80% or above). If no candidate achieves an aggregate mark of 80% or above for the four examinations then the Gold Medal is not awarded.

The FAA Examination Board continued with the FAA elected examiners rotating the role of Chair of the Exam Board and a coordinator who provided the administrative role to support the Exam Board.

In 2004 there were changes within the Exam Board and the position of the Coordinator became the Exam Board Director. The Exam Board Director’s role had increased responsibilities and became the person who interacted directly with exam candidates on all counts allowing the Examiners to concentrate on setting and marking the exams.

In 2007- 2008 the FAA Exam Board began to research national educational standards for qualifications within Australia and overseas and how these related to the standards of the FAA Examinations.

The result was a proposal to the FAA National Council in January 2008 to revise the names of the current qualifications in line with established educational standards. The FAA Practitioners Certificate became the FAA Diploma of Astrology [Dip Astro (FAA)] and the FAA Diploma became the FAA Advanced Diploma of Astrology [Adv Dip Astro (FAA)].

These changes were widely welcomed and stand as evidence of the growth and development of the FAA Examination System over the past 38 years that now provides nationally, and internationally recognised astrological qualifications that promotes professionalism within astrology.

For the current qualifications and more information on the FAA Exam System and the FAA Examiners Board, please refer to the FAA website http://www.faainc.org.au. Under the FAA Exams on the same site, you will also find a downloadable copy of the FAA Exam Book that outlines all the qualifications and how to apply for the examinations.


Anita Ings
FAA President
August 2009

References
FAA Journals Vol 22 Number 1 March 1992, Vol 22 Number 4 December 1992, Vol 23 Number 2 June 1993, Vol 30 Number 1 March 2000, Vol 37 Number 3 September 2007, Vol 38 Number 1 March 2008

Transneptunians

In the early 20th century, German Astrologer Alfred Witte along with Friedrich Sieggruen discovered a method of obtaining further information in the Horoscope by placing eight hypothetical 'planets' or points within the natal chart. These planets are referred to as TransNeptunians, 'Trans' meaning outer and Neptunian refers to these bodies being located in the region of the solar system, beyond Neptune, Neptune was used because at the time the two outermost planets, Uranus and Pluto were not yet discovered. The history of how Alfred Witte discovered these hypothetical planets is rather vague but it 's said that whilst in World War II, Witte compiled a list of birth dates and transit times for soldiers at war in order to determine factors such as probable times of injury or even death and other appropriate times like when a soldier went home to his family or received a transfer. Unfortunately, Witte could not relate any planetary activity to these important moments or find anything particularly interesting in the Natal charts that would indicate these events either.

Eventually over several years Witte hypothesised that there were eight planets that he could not see but felt he knew were there. Witte began to plot the orbit of these planets by studying his comrades and the events of war around him, until ultimately years later an Ephemeris was born with the exact Zodiacal Longitudes of these points. Witte named these TransNeptunians Cupido, Hades, Zeus, Kronos, Apollon, Admetos, Vulcanus and Poseidon. These eight TransNeptunians represent valuable additions to the language of astrology and below is a list of these planets and their astrological meanings and symbols. Cupido The glyph for Cupido is defined by the combination of the planets Jupiter and Venus, representing happiness and love. Cupido represents social ties and group affiliations and the art world is symbolised by this point.

Family units are a good example of how Cupido is represented; it gives us the innate desire to find a partner to be able to develop the family group. Cupido also represents the corporate family or business group dynamic. A good example of the effects of Cupido is in the chart of the wedding between Princess Diana and Prince Charles in 1981. In this chart there is a conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn at 5 degrees of Libra semi sextile Venus at 5 degrees Virgo also semi sextile the Sun at 6 degrees of Leo. Cupido was at 5 degrees of Scorpio at the time, enhancing the matrimonial and family symbolism of Cupido. The Royal family underwent changes in the 1990's when Transiting Cupido and transiting Pluto were in conjunction indicating the major reconstruction of this royal couple and other separations and marriages within the entire royal family. Hades The second hypothetical planet to be named was Hades and is symbolised by a crescent moon joined with a hanging cross, indicating emotional and spiritual concerns. In ancient mythology, Hades was the son of Kronos and Rhea. Hades symbolises burden, the underworld and the deceased. It represents the dark, sordid side to life, crime, waste illness and sorrow. Hades though is not completely merciless, it has a beneficial side as through these times of darkness and grief, Hades can help us gain understanding of the correlations from the past and helps us to grow through these issues and learn from past grievances. Hades also represents our deep subconscious and our spirit that watches over us while we sleep.

This planet indicates astral planes and dreams as well. To the conscious individual, this point can release the soul to the higher regions of Hades, giving resolution of grief, fear and eradicating the feeling of destruction and damage to the individual. Hades within the natal chart often gives the need for in-depth psychotherapy to dig out their own, internal 'garbage' that is festering within them. A Hades person can go through endless cycles of destruction and renewal; time after time, in their lives but this can offer a fast track, spiritually for ultimate growth. A pertinent example of Hades energy within a natal and transiting chart is the horoscopes of Timothy McVeigh, the Okalahoma Bomber. McVeigh's Natal chart has Hades at 16 degrees of Taurus and Mars is conjunct at 19 degrees, both hidden in the 12th house. This combination of Mars and Hades Witte indicates as: "Atrocity and vulgar acts. To cause damages sudden attacks, murder and homicide. Unusual death and faulty or bad actions." At the time of the Bombing that killed hundreds of people, Hades was at 13 degrees of Gemini in the 1st house forming an opposition with Jupiter at 14 degrees of Sagittarius in the 7th house of open enemies. Hades is also in sextile with Mars at 16 degrees of Leo. Furthermore, in the chart of McVeigh's execution on the 11th of June 2001 Hades was opposing Mars at 20 and 23 degrees respectively in Gemini and Sagittarius. The Sun is exactly conjunct Hades at 20 degrees of Gemini and just 2 degrees away is excessive Jupiter. As you can see Hades was a significant part of McVeigh's life and it seems he was unable to escape the destructive qualities that Hades can represent. Zeus Zeus's glyph symbolises 'controlled energy' represented by four open bottomed triangles which converge at their apex and give rise to an upward pointing arrow. Zeus in mythology was a free spirited, adventurous and resourceful young man. He rebelled against all decrees and subjugation from authority figures. He gathered warriors around him and promised them victory if they followed him thus emphasising his leadership qualities.

Zeus signifies creativity and pro-creativity for the reason that he climbed Mount Olympus, where he sought many women with whom he sired a large number of children. The nature of this transneptunian is active and fiery, has controlled power and directs purposeful activity. Zeus adds drive to whatever it touches. Zeus symbolises all things military: machinery, mechanisms, firearms, fuel and industrialisation. Zeus in combination with Kronos and Vulcanus has been found to have strong connections to the weapons and destructive power of warfare, all three planets were closely linked throughout the entire period of World War II. Zeus's creative energy and focused drive though, normally finds more positive and less destructive outlets in the natal chart. Quite often Zeus is seen in the charts of sports stars as it gives drive, persistence and the motivation to achieve their ultimate goals. Michael Jordan has Zeus in his natal chart conjunct Uranus at 3 and 4 degrees of Virgo respectively, in the 5th house, the natural house of creative expression and vitality. Zeus in Jordan's chart is also inconjunct Mercury at 2 degrees of Aquarius in the 10th house of career and social prominence. Mohamed 'The Greatest' Ali has Zeus at 18 degrees of Leo in opposition to Venus with an orb of 2 degrees, squaring Kronos at 16 degrees of Taurus and trine Hades and Admetos in the 9th house. Furthermore, it is located exactly on his ascendant at 18 degrees of Leo. Kronos The next TransNeptunian is Kronos. The glyph that represents Kronos is an upright cross under a crescent moon, symbolising the assistance of souls above and recognition of our upper limits. Superiority, authority, high levels of expertise and a high standard of excellency is represented by Kronos. We are encouraged to recognise our limits and we are taught not to be over-bearing in our own self-confidence with Kronos. Reaping what you sow is a good example of the cause and effects of Kronos. In ancient mythology Kronos was mothered by Gaia- the Earth and fathered by the powerful and forceful Uranus.

The domination of Uranus encouraged Kronos's drive for self-preservation and independence, however, he was weakened by unconsciously reflecting the malice of his father when he killed him with his own hands, by doing so he sowed the conditions of his own death as well. Kronos therefore can be seen to symbolise the recurring events of life, beginnings and endings. Kronos can indicate someone who has risen to the top of their chosen profession and it can often be seen in the charts of royalty and/or government, and presidents, prime ministers, and corporate directors, especially when combined with the Sun. Queen Elizabeth has Kronos conjunct the Sun at 6 degrees of Taurus, squaring Zeus in Leo and semi sextile Mercury and Hades at 4 degrees of Aries. Prince William has Kronos exactly Trine Saturn at 16 degrees Gemini and 15 degrees Libra 30 minutes respectively, and forms a semi sextile to his natal North Node. Princess Diana who was loved by millions and was considered to be the favourite royal has Kronos at 1 degree of Gemini exactly square Mars at 1 degree of Virgo, it also forms a square to Pluto within a 6 degree orb. . Apollon Apollon in the natal chart represents expansion and distribution, progression and growth. The glyph is a combination of Jupiter and Gemini, a vertical line reinforced by a second one, linked together by a support above and below. This symbolises 'all-embracing harmony'. Apollon has close affiliations with science and commerce, education, success and far away or foreign places. Astronaut Buzz Aldrin has natal Apollon at 7 degrees of Virgo exactly inconjunct Uranus, Hades and Admetos. It also forms an exact Trine with his North node at 7 degrees of Taurus.

Scientist Albert Einstein has a highly aspected Apollon in his natal chart. Located in the 2nd house at 4 degrees of Leo, Apollon is trine Saturn, Mercury and Kronos located in the 10th house and all within an orb of 1 degree. Apollon symbolises understanding and brilliance that leads to increase in awareness, amplification of perception and the amassing of experiences in many areas. Apollon infers that harmony, understanding, and evenness of temperament is essential in order to be able to carry out one's goals successfully. Einstein once said " Our task must be to free ourselves from this prison by widening our circle of compassion to embrace all living creatures." This is very fitting considering Einstein's natal Neptune in the 11th house is square Apollon with an orb of less than 3 degrees. There is a close opposition from Apollon to the natal North Node and Mars in the 8th house. Einstein's incredible natural ability for science and his utopian outlook, led to the Theory of Relativity, this and his general fascination with Space and Time is an excellent example of Apollon at work within the natal chart. Admetos Admetos is related to all that is stable, permanent, and uncompromising, as well as anything that has stopped or remains defunct. The glyph that represents Admetos resembles the Earth on a pole. The crescent of the moon rests on the globe, upwardly receptive. The effects of Admetos surface from the depths of the past, originating from primal sources. The influence of Admetos can trigger deep transformations, which leads to persistence and helps develop endurance. Admetos is about laying foundations and groundwork. Anything that comes from deep below the soil or ground, such as minerals, crystals and rocks are related to this point. Gravity is another good example of the effects of Admetos. Einstein has Admetos located in his 9th house at 9 degrees of Pisces sextile Neptune in the 11th and widely opposing Uranus in the 3rd at 2 degrees of Virgo. Einstein was obsessed by the theory that nature was harmonious, this led him to believe that electromagnetism and gravity had a common origin. Whilst Einstein was researching and seeking support for his ideas during this time, he travelled the world and gave lectures for hours on end, his students claimed he had remarkable endurance and persistence. His work was not easily accepted by scientists at first but Einstein followed through with his beliefs and used his intuition (9th), he continued to persevere with them (Admetos) and his diligence paid off because in 1922 he won a Nobel prize for his contributions. Vulkanus Vulkanus represents tremendous energy and strength in the natal chart and this is symbolised by the glyph.

A triangle from whose peak rises an upward arrow indicates the energy that boils to the surface, like a volcano. Vulkanus in the horoscope conveys compulsiveness and extreme physical force. It also lends itself to emotional intensity as well as physical. Mohamed Ali has natal Vulkanus at 18 degrees of Gemini trine Venus on the descendant. It is also semi square Mars in Taurus in the 9th, with an orb of 18 minutes and semi square Pluto in the 12th in Leo with an orb of 1 degree 26. It is no wonder he was considered the greatest fighter in the world. Ali is also prominent because of his strong emotional views and beliefs on racism; he joined the Nation of Islam although born American and thus was the beginning of his social and political activism. In the birth chart of Timothy McVeigh, Vulkanus is located close to the Ascendant at 2 degrees of Cancer Sextile the Sun and Mercury in Taurus and it is also squaring Apollon in the 4th. Vulkanus is also semi square Hades in the 12th house. Interestingly at the time of the bombing of the Okalahoma building, Vulkanus was again squaring Apollon with an orb of only 26 minutes. Poseidon The final Transneptunian is Poseidon the God of the Sea. Unlike Neptune who is represented by the god holding a trident capped staff, Poseidon is depicted as in animal form. Poseidon is the god who provided a clear passage to death thus representing the spiritual ideology of this point. The glyph for Poseidon is the sign of Pisces standing on its end. It symbolises spiritual and intellectual receptivity to all points of view. Poseidon relates to spirit, understanding, enlightenment, truth, philosophy, wisdom and clarity. It also represents a need to develop in the area of higher conscious awareness. All matters Esoteric relate to Poseidon and if well aspected can make for a talented healer. Poseidon is the planet of ideas and ideals, and is frequently associated with psychics, mystics, and mediums. Famous Psychic and spoon bender Uri Gellar has natal Poseidon at 8 degrees of Libra in the 12th house closely conjunct Neptune. It is trine the North Node in Gemini in the 8th, sextile Mercury in Sagittarius in the 2nd house and also sextiling Saturn in the 10th, all within a 2 degree orb of one another! Psychiatrist Elizabeth Kubler Ross whose book 'On Death and Dying' brought comfort to millions of terminally ill patients has natal Poseidon at 27 degrees of Virgo in the 7th house trine Jupiter at 26 Aquarius in the 12th with less than a 1 degree orb, signifying her ability to help expand (Jupiter) other peoples (7th) thoughts and perceptions on death, dying and grieving (Poseidon). Kubler Ross did most of her work within the walls of hospitals (12th) by insisting patients be heard and by letting them explore their feelings openly. Kubler Ross also has Poseidon in close opposition to Uranus in Pisces in the 1st house thus indicating why people perceived her as being somewhat different. It took society a while to accept her radical beliefs and views on life and the afterlife because previously to Ross's pioneering work, terminally ill patients were left to pass away alone without any reassurance to their families and loved ones and more importantly to the patients themselves.

Mercury is semi- square Poseidon in Ross's chart in the 6th house of health; this would strengthen her ability to communicate on such a spiritual and emotional level with her patients. Famous pioneer of person centred Astrology; Dane Rudhyar also has a prominent Poseidon in his birth chart. Located at 12 degrees of Virgo in the 9th house closely squaring Mars, Neptune and Pluto in Gemini in the 6th. Poseidon in the 9th house in his chart gave Rudhyar spiritual and emotional insight into the heart of astrology and the square to Mars, Neptune and Pluto gave him the passion and desire to push past the boundaries of the 6th and explore his spirituality and intellect further (9th). There still is a lot of research that needs to be done on the TransNeptunians but it is without doubt there are very strong indications that these 'hypothetical planets' are highly effective points of interpretation. They add depth to the natal horoscope and give a whole new perspective to the chart in particular areas, especially when in major configuration with natal planets and angles.

The Sun

So, your life has no direction, Lost your Identity?, do you feel like you are not on your intended pathway? Or, need help gaining a sense of purpose? By using astrology you can get on the right track and pursue your dreams with a solid sense of identity and self-worth. Most of us know our Sun Signs but unfortunately do not know much more than the basic stereotyped description of them. Yes, the Leo native is proud and creative, sometimes bossy and the centre of attention and the Gemini individual is witty, intelligent, studious and dare I say two faced! But, how do these things influence the direction of our lives? How does it give us our own identity? The Sun in Astrology represents where we gain a greater sense of our power, purpose and how we distinguish ourselves from others. The Sun is what we seek to become.

Not only does the Sun fall into a sign of the zodiac at our time of birth, it also falls into one of Twelve Houses in the horoscope. A house is just one 30-degree segment of the 360-degree horoscope; giving 12 houses all together. Briefly, the 12 houses represent the following areas of your life: 1st - Who you are and how you appear to others. 2nd - Self-worth and material possessions. 3rd - Study and communications. 4th - Home life and family responsibility. 5th - Creativity, children and speculation. 6th - Employment/Health and service to others. 7th - Relationships and commitment. 8th - Sex, rebirth and other people's money. 9th - Religion and higher level learning. 10th - Career and social status. 11th - Friendships, goals and social interaction. 12th - Hidden matters, subconscious and intuitive.

To be able to determine which house your Sun was in at your Time of Birth you must know roughly what time you were born and then look at the following table. Time of Birth Corresponding House Between 6am and 8am 12th house 8am and 10am 11th 10am and 12pm 10th 12pm and 2pm 9th 2pm and 4pm 8th 4pm and 6pm 7th 6pm and 8pm 6th 8pm and 10pm 5th 10pm and 12am 4th 12am and 2am 3rd 2am and 4am 2nd 4am and 6am 1st Sun in the 1st house: With this position, you are meant to be the centre of attention! Others are attracted to you as long as you meet life with enthusiasm and determination. You require a position in life, which allows you to exercise your power of natural authority and fulfils your desire for recognition. You should express your individuality and personal desires albeit being careful not to become to overbearing. Sun in the 2nd house: You have a great need to develop personal skills, values and resources to achieve a sense of identity and security. You probably feel as though your sense of security comes from acquiring material and monetary possessions. Your life should be met with vitality and strength. You need to define what constitutes security to you, not rely on others to provide your safety and sanctuary for you. Sun in the 3rd house: With the Sun in this house, you have the desire to be heard and recognised for your mental contributions to the world. You gain your sense of power and self-worth from strengthening your intellect and communicating abilities. You feel most alive when you are learning and exchanging ideas with others. Be careful not to allow your environment to reflect your attitude and influences. Sun in the 4th house: Those with this position tend to reflect on life inwardly, you need to evaluate your self-worth through contemplative practice. You have a deep need to express your own unique identity and this is what the foundations of your life are built on. You may feel like you need to separate yourself from your family background in order to establish this sense of distinctiveness.

Sun in the 5th house: If you have the Sun in this position, how lucky you are! Being the natural domain of the Sun this position gives you the desire to engage in activities that make you feel alive. When you feel like you are not living up to your creative standards, you have the tendency to become depressed or ill. Artistic expression is advised with this position. Maintaining hobbies, recreational pursuits and entertainment such as the theatre or art galleries are a great way to improve the richness of your life. Sun in the 6th house: With this position, your sense of identity comes from health status, daily rituals and working conditions. It is important that you develop a good relationship with your body and understand the body is a vehicle. If it is not cared for, you will ultimately suffer. Your self-worth, personal value and power comes from being of service to others, whether via the health environment or just in your everyday life. You must accept boundaries and routines as this will refine your experience of living. Sun in the 7th house: With the Sun in this house you find that your sense of self-power and purpose is found through having a partnership or relationship. By involving yourself in joint activities and raising issues between you, you can clearly define who you are. This does not mean finding a partner to take all of your responsibilities leaving you to be free, it is important that you define who you are on a personal level. Sun in the 8th house: Those of you with the Sun in this position will feel the need to reconnect with something greater than the self, in order to feel like an individual. You seek to expand yourself through some form of union or interchange with others. You may feel your sense of self and individuality from studying the occult or subjects that are taboo to others. Sun in the 9th house: Those of you with this placement should strive to expand your understanding and perspective on life. You feel the need to perceive deeper insight into philosophical pursuits, the whys and hows and perhaps even religious spheres of life. You gain a sense of power and worth from knowing what the "bigger picture" is. Sharing your insights on the philosophies of life will help you to distinguish yourself. Be careful though, not to become so concerned with the overall picture that you lose sight of everyday reality. Sun in the 10th house: If your Sun is in this position, you may feel as though your identity is integrated with career or professional requirements. You want to be recognised as someone who has contributed to your chosen field. You tirelessly work yourself to the ground in order to be "Somebody" and to be admired. You must be careful not to rely too much on your title or position held in the world though because you may feel totally devoid of purpose and defeated if life does not live up to your expectations. Sun in the 11th house: With the Sun in the 11th, you will be able to establish a sense of identity through social, humanitarian or political actions. You should incorporate yourself with a larger unit or group involvement in order to gain a feeling of self-worth and personal power. You must be careful however to make sure you are identifying with a particular group and not just falling into the trap of believing what a group tells you to believe.

You should set yourself feasible goals toward which to aim in life and if possible surround yourself with like-minded individuals. Sun in the 12th house: The 12th house transmits forces, which threaten to dissolve or undermine the boundaries of the ego and the nature of the Sun is to establish these boundaries, so there is a contradiction here. Therefore, with this placement you need to be aware of the differences between conscious and unconscious thoughts. You have a sensitivity about you that can act as a channel between these two extremes so it is important to be open minded and aware of the subconscious drives of your personality. Take time out to reflect on your buried thoughts and feelings. In some way, your personal identity is evolved through understanding issues much larger than yourself, more universal.

Pluto and Saturn and Transformation

Saturn/Pluto - Growth and Transformation

The Saturn-Pluto cycle is one of the most important and visible cycles in astrology. Completing a cycle approximately every thirty-three years, during specific times under this cycle, when Saturn and Pluto make significant angular relationship to each other, themes and patterns emerge. The Saturn-Pluto cycles can be associated with military crises, world wars, economic downturns and cultural confrontations throughout history. In brief, the difficult Saturn/Pluto periods of the past century, when these two bodies were either in square, conjunction, or in opposition, have coincided with major events. These include the commencement of World War I in 1914 and the conjunction of 1946 coinciding with the end of World War II.

The height of the Great Depression, the beginnings of the Cold War and in the mid-1960s the Vietnam War coincided with the opposition. In order to get a proficient understanding of the energy of these two planets with each other, we need to understand the meanings of the individual planets in question. Pluto deals with extremes in astrology; it is all encompassing, uncontrollable, at times ruthless, fundamental and deep in its capacity to shift blockages. Its passage through the signs of the zodiac produces different generations of people with essentially different perspective. In history, the effects of Pluto force radical change because of what has already been sown. Pluto restructures and demolishes old worn out patterns and paths the way for new thought forms and actions. Any clutter or disorder encompassed from previous experience is suggested via the sign Pluto is in at any given time. Aside from the sweeping changes and abolition of Pluto, regeneration and rejuvenation is also manifested. Pluto either exposes or reinforces underlying patterns in the human and collective psyche dependant on the position and angular relationship of Pluto in relation to the other planets and house cusps.

Pluto can be ruthless in its capacity to push the limits of whatever situation that arises. The harder we try to hold on, the more ruthless the energy of change becomes, and the change gets out of control. Socially Pluto concerns oppression and breakthroughs in terms of societal reputation; it exposes truths, lies and possible corrupting influences of the social order. Pluto's outcome is intended to manifest as complete transformation and resurgence, but whether it is or not is dependent on the profound choice humanity makes or does not make as a whole. Saturn, on the other hand is the planet of restrictions and limitations, structure and from. It has a solidifying nature and stabilises everything it touches. Tradition and organisation is Saturn's territory, therefore the foundations of a nation, its governmental system, authority, institutions and the basic structure of the society is represented by it. The moderating effect of Saturn influences conservatism within a community and it emphasises the traditions and values the society has largely. It is through Saturn that man learns how to shape his being in order to live in the material world he teaches us to break free from our instinctual appendages.
In most astrological texts, Saturn is considered to be the 'greater malefic', indicating sorrow, ruin and devastation to all it touches although this is not always the case. Saturn forces us to face our past illusions and misconceptions in order to give us the liberation we require to live an individual and free existence. The blocks that are set up by Saturn are often due to the fear of giving up and changing ideals, images or material possessions. It is far easier to block the pain than confront it and go through the process. Saturn can be looked upon as the wise old man that informs us of aspects of ourselves that require change and development. By listening to Saturn, we can strengthen ourselves individually or collectively and ultimately we will be led to fulfilment and freedom of spirit. Difficult aspects between Saturn and Pluto in the natal chart (of a person or nation) are intense. The Conjunction, square and opposition of these planets ask us to take a good look at our position at present. It wants us to recognise the foundations upon which we stand and dig out the dark, unproductive aspects of ourselves in order to grow. Aspects between transiting planets do not differ, they ask us to recover, rebuild and regenerate existing structures and foundations. Saturn and Pluto, over the last 100 years have been through several cycles beginning with a conjunction of the two planets, moving on to a square to an opposition until returning to the conjunction approximately 35 years later. The conjunction of two planets interblends the energies of the individual planet together. Power and intensity are the key words of the conjunction. The conjunction is the most powerful aspect in a horoscope as the energies of the planets completely interconnect with each other. The conjunction of Saturn and Pluto brings together the destructive, releasing and powerful force of Pluto with the restricting, consolidating effects of Saturn. It can be an aspect of tremendous frustration and tension.

The urge we have to free ourselves from the limitations and restrictions of Saturn becomes very strong with Pluto included. Saturn-Pluto change is likely to impose restrictions on our freedom of movement or upon our resources. With this much tension it can be difficult, because eventually the frustration can bring about violence and anger. Historically, the Saturn/Pluto conjunction ties in beginning of World War 1. At 2 degrees of Cancer on the 4th of October 1914, both planets aspected Mars by square when the War began. The First world war was a breakdown of the political organisation of the 19th century, empires and sovereignties were overthrown and new nations came to exist, this is typically the effect of Saturn and Pluto in conjunction. On 9th of October 1922 Saturn formed a square to Pluto, although nothing remarkable accompanied this aspect, restructuring is evident with a period of mass inflation and economic recession in Europe leading to the rise of Mussolini.
The cycle continued through the century to eventually form an opposition from February 17th 1931 until December 13th 1931. This opposition between Saturn and Pluto in Capricorn and Cancer respectively occurred during the period of the Great depression. Major structural changes and destruction was initiated at this time with Nazi Germany becoming prominent and the rise of Adolf Hitler's dictatorship. All matters pertaining to government and civilisation (Saturn-Capricorn) were under a tremendous amount of strain due to mass unemployment and starvation. On 26th of March 1940 a square between Saturn and Pluto formed. This was after the start of World War II. World War II was considered to be the final battles of what had began in the first war. Again, it was the catalyst for major restructuring of historical precedents. At the same time, the republican government was established in Spain, laying the groundwork for the Spanish Civil War. August 11th of 1947, the cycle began again with Saturn and Pluto forming a conjunction in the sign of Leo. By this time, the war had altered direction and the political players had changed from Europe to the US and the USSR. The Cold War began at this time and the NATO alliance was formed. This time also marks the period of division between India and Pakistan. Saturn squared Pluto from December 27th 1955 to October 7th 1956 coinciding with the Eisenhower period in the US. The cold war was raging but economics were increasing. The war between nations went over to the Middle East in October 1956, the Israelis invaded Egypt, and the French and the British bombed the Suez Canal. The opposition between Saturn and Pluto again formed on April 23rd 1965 to February 20 1966 in the signs of Pisces and Virgo. Pluto conjoining Uranus while it was opposing Saturn made this combination more intense. This three-planet configuration is a sign of revolutionary upheaval. The Vietnam War "escalation" became significant during this time and the US committed large numbers of troops in an atmosphere of Cold War suspicion. Race riots became prevalent with Black power taking the spotlight at this time. Institutions (Saturn) of all sorts suffered, including marriage: divorce rates in the U.S. began to soar. Saturn forms a square with Pluto again on the 28th of May 1974, after this aspect the war between Israel and the Arabs became prominent, leading to the economic crises of the US around the same time. After the square between these two planets occurred in 1974 the opposition followed on the 8th of November 1982 beginning a new cycle of Saturn and Pluto. The conjunction occurred in the sign of Libra. This aspect consisted mainly of economic stagnation before the economic boom of the late 1980s. The war between Iraq and Iran wagered on and the USSR was crumbling with a new financial order emerging. The U.K. went to war with Argentina over the Falklands and the escalation of terrorism began to occur. Suicide Bombers were emerging, with Iran using waves of suicide troops in battle. This conjunction in 1982 marked the beginning of the cycle that we are now experiencing.

The beginning of the cycle in 1982 marked the rise in terrorism and suicide bombers, so it is interesting to see the events of the opposition taking place at present and how they compare to the previous cycles of Pluto and Saturn. Saturn in Gemini and Pluto in Sagittarius have formed an opposition since August 5th 2001 and will continue to make three passes until the final hit on the 26th of May 2002. With the theme of death, war and economic repression prominent previously throughout the last century it is no surprise that again these areas are under scrutiny. Just after the exact opposition in August the world watched as a tragedy unfolded on their TV screens and in front of their very eyes. Thousands of people were killed at 8:53am in New York City when Islamic suicide bombers hijacked several aircraft and ploughed them into the World Trade Centre and the Pentagon. Interestingly, Israel was formed under a Saturn/Pluto conjunction. Reeling from this terrible tragedy Americans have vowed to fight terrorism throughout the world and eradicate any threat of this ever happening again. With Pluto in the freedom loving Sagittarius, it is no wonder people will not tolerate tyranny and oppression any longer and feel compelled to break free from the cycle of violence. War is again within our midst with the essential players being Afghanistan and the US. The signs that Saturn and Pluto occupy at present also show us appropriate themes and symbols. Gemini and Sagittarius represent domestic travel, foreign relations, commerce, religion, international treaties, communication, trades and exchanges, all pertinent considering the physical actions of the event. The chart for the moment of the attacks on the WTC in New York shows us in more detail the effects of the planets in relation to Saturn and Pluto, the houses that they fall in give us the area of significance. The 3rd and 9th houses are highlighted in the chart for the moment emphasising the Gemini/Sagittarius polarity. Religion, travel and foreign relations therefore were enhanced here. Mercury is located on the Ascendant in the WTC attack chart and forming a Grand Trine with Saturn and Uranus in Air, this implies the success of the mission on behalf of the terrorists but ultimately it may also be the catalyst for success by America and the world on the War on Terror.

The chart for the Inauguration of America has Sagittarius at 12 degrees. This indicates the personal nature of the incident to America. The attack on New York effectively gave rise to the beginning of an end of an era of terrorism throughout the world, The President of America, George Bush declared a War on Terrorism, a very relevant reference to Pluto and Saturn in aspect. Other fears have risen around the world since the opposition of August, such as the Anthrax scare in America and the manufacturing of chemical warfare in the Middle East and other parts of the world. The opposition of Saturn and Pluto not only emphasises the War factor of previous cycles but it has triggered off economic depression as well. Stock markets were on the decline and there has been a large increase on energy prices. The price of oil is on the rise and with foreign relations in such a rocky position this may increase.
It is obvious to see the correlation of the Saturn Pluto cycle with significant periods in history, there are common themes and patterns that emerge each time these two planets make contact, with war, economic strain and restructuring of society prevalent. We have been given a chance to look back on the last 20 years, since Saturn's conjunction with Pluto in Libra. If the planets at the start of this cycle shape the basic nature of what we are enduring, optimistically we can envisage peace and harmony between the world's Countries and Nations with the restructuring of our ideas of justice.

With the emphasis on Gemini and Sagittarius, it is easy to see what we need to evaluate in our lives. Our religious stances are being tested and tried. Our beliefs are being evaluated and we are being pushed into deep self-assessment. The best way we can assist in allowing the energy flow easier on a personal level is to take a good hard look at where we are at and abolish past habits. We need to evaluate our spiritual value system and make the appropriate changes necessary. The same applies for the collective. By weeding out the bad and getting to the root of the problems we have, we can begin to rebuild and regenerate society into the freedom loving and united place it should be. The effects of Saturn opposing Pluto are likely to remain for a long period of time, with Father time and the slowest moving planet in the universe together we cannot expect sudden sweeping changes. It will be a slow process but a worthy one. We all have the will to choose between the lower and higher expression of these planets and ultimately we can all participate in creating a new world vision.

Interestingly this article was written just after 911 and is now just as relevant as ever. Since this article we have had the first pass of Saturn squaring Pluto on November 15, 2009, and the last pass will be in August 2010. From October 2009 through September 2010 this aspect will be asserting its influence in our lives again. How will it surface? What indications of this aspect have shown themselves? The current economic challenges we face are the shifting of world power to the east and China and India; the powder barrel of “freedom fighters”/”terrorists” all show us the restructuring of our world system. Lets keep are eyes open for any other Saturn/Pluto themes and enjoy the fact that it is a regular and necessary transit that clears our pathways and builds new ones.