The excruciating Saturn/Uranus opposition will be with us for a few years. I call this problematic Outer Planetary Configuration, the Purge for Change Effect or the Recession Effect.
“You’re probably wondering what this all means? Saturn represents permanence and Uranus represents change. In opposition they indicate that some permanent changes are going to take place, but that they will be difficult. It will be necessary to purge yourself of the comfort and security of long-term patterns to make the move. … Face the challenges and move rather than sitting back and waiting. If you wait you will be wrenched out of your comfort zone. Better to be proactive about changes when the opportunities present themselves rather than being told to leave when you are unprepared. Move on your own accord into new land or be forced to move.” (written January 2008)
Two individuals, a radical and a conservative, obviously opposites in many ways, are thrown together. Although uncomfortable in each other’s company, they know they must work together if they are to survive.
This opposition reflects the general economic and political situation – people losing jobs, homes, and insecure from dropping income – seemingly endless tensions and wars between diverse cultures. This is why this influence is also referred to as the Depression or Recession Effect.
Some of these Outer Planetary influences only occur once; many occur 3 times; only a few occur five times. This challenging opposition is one of those that will be with us for an extended period of time. It hit first in November of ’08, will occur again in February and September of ’09, & then again in April and July of ’10 – a full two and half years of this wrenching influence.
At present Uranus and Saturn are separating from each other as both are moving forward. However Saturn turns backward on December 31 to return to their second confrontation on February 5, 2008. However don’t get too obsessed with exact dates. Because this is a continuing Configuration, the Inner Planets regularly trigger the opposition on a weekly level and the Moon on a daily level.
Because this aspect is an opposition, some sectors of the Zodiac aggravate the problems of the relationship, others choose one side or another, others are neutral, and some actually problem solving sectors, resolving differences, rather than pouring gasoline on the fire.
Presently the opposition is occurring at the end of their respective Signs. The last decan of Pisces is where Uranus is; so this sign is ready to change, but is trapped. Virgo is Saturn’s Sign, so wants to remain, but is being forced to change. The last third of Gemini and Sagittarius are fighting both planets – presently the worst spots in the Zodiac. The last decan of Taurus, Cancer, Scorpio, & Capricorn are in the position to harmonize the opposition by helping out those who are in need. Although the last third of Aires, Leo, Libra & Aquarius are neutral, they will be engaged, just as those who are born in the first two thirds of any Sign because of the interconnectedness of Life.
Jupiter was acting to resolve differences, but is now moving out of the zone, although he is still in range.
“Jupiter, which represents expansion and growth, [symbolized by Obama] is providing the opportunity for these permanent changes.” [written January 2008]
Currently aesthetic Venus, ruler of Beauty, is leading the rest into Aquarius, a neutral Sign. The Sun and Mars, both at the end of Sagittarius are fighting it out from the worst possible angle. Attempt to temper your aggression and be very tolerant, as everyone is a bit on edge due to the difficulties of the time. Mercury has finished his battling and has moved into Capricorn, a Sign that can work to harmonize the opposition.
To check the current relations of the Inner Planets and the Moon click on the respective links.
The Radical & the Conservative are having difficulties. There is tension between them. A Powerful Person & the Warrior briefly join them and stir up trouble by emphasizing differences and/or irresolvable problems between them. Attempt to avoid being the ones stirring up problems or the ones reacting to the trouble making. Simply refuse to play the game.