By Debra Infante
December brings several significant and powerful astrological events, many highlighting the sign of Scorpio. A total solar eclipse occurs on December 4, 2021 in the sign of Scorpio. Later that same day, Mars moves into its own sign of Scorpio. Later, on December 15, 2021, Mars will conjunct exalted Ketu in Scorpio, a tense combination. Venus, the planet of relationship and finance, goes retrograde from December 19, 2021 until January 29, 2022.
A total solar eclipse occurs on December 4, 2021 at 12:42 AM MST at 18 degrees Scorpio in the nakshatra of Jyeshtha. This eclipse is the second of a pair, as the first eclipse occurred on November 19, 2021. Solar eclipses happen at a New Moon, and with this highly sensitive solar eclipse the Moon is debilitated, so watch for increased emotional intensity, drama, or upheaval. Instead, practice presence and neutrality. This Scorpio eclipse also indicates the deep need for greater self-awareness, positive transformation, and rebirth. Eclipses present us with opportunities for change and awakening. Meditation, prayer, and retreat are positive remedies.
The star Antares, one of the brightest stars in the night sky, is connected to the nakshatra of Jyeshtha where this solar eclipse occurs. The deity associated with Jyeshtha is Indra, the King of the Gods, and Jyeshtha means “the eldest” and is also called the “chief star.” We are developing a direct connection to our inner authority, which allows us to rise above problems with great courage and confidence. This eclipse motivates us to tap into our “inner hero” and work on any inner challenges or themes connected to self-responsibility and truth.
Later at 5:30 PM MST on the evening of December 4, eclipse day, Mars moves into its own sign of Scorpio and joins a stellium of planets there – the Sun, Moon, Ketu, and Mercury. Mars, the planet of action, assertiveness, courage, and frustration, is extra strong in Scorpio, a sign it rules. Mars in the fixed sign of Scorpio can increase our determination, force, and persistence, but can also indicate power games, manipulations, and conflicts. Direct this increased energy into positive channels and inspirational activities for the good of all.
On December 15, 2021, Mars will conjunct exalted Ketu in Scorpio at 7 degrees, a day to be extra careful physically and emotionally. These two fiery, pitta planets can be quite combustible. Ketu is more instinctive and relates to the past, so in combination with Mars, can give rise to old conflicts or differences of opinion that can become quite heated or combative. So instead calm down, and direct the Mars/Ketu heightened energies to noble causes and authentic leadership. Accept how powerful you really are.
The Sun shifts to Sagittarius on December 15, 2021 (the same day as the Mars/Ketu conjunction) and goes through the gandanta degrees of 29 Scorpio and 0 Sagittarius. This indicates an opportunity to break old patterns and to connect deeply to our soul’s true destiny.
Venus, the planet of relationship, love, creativity, and diplomacy, goes retrograde at 2 degrees Capricorn from December 19, 2021 until January 29, 2022. Venus starts its retrograde phase in Capricorn, but will eventually move back into the sign of Sagittarius on December 29, 2021. Venus retrograde is usually a time of re-examining or reconsidering our love relationships, as well as being a positive time to heal old wounds or traumas. Ultimately we see the value in forming or keeping relationships that are genuine and trustworthy. We desire deeper connections with our loved ones. Creative endeavors are favored. Use this period to generate love and kindness within, and not look outside of yourself for validation. It becomes apparent that working in harmony with nature and all life is crucial now.
Debra Infante is a practicing Vedic astrologer and teacher. She began her studies of Vedic astrology in 1995, and was certified by The American College of Vedic Astrology as an approved teacher (Level I) in September 1999. She has taught Vedic astrology to the students in the yoga teacher trainings at 7 Centers Yoga in Sedona, AZ from 2002 to 2020. Debra can be reached at (928) 639-0623 or dinfante108@gmail.com for astrological consultations by phone or in person. Contact her to receive her monthly Vedic astrology article. You can also find her at http://ayurveda-sedona.com/yoga-and-vedic-astrology/about-vedic-astrology/
