The 10 Faces of Libra

Happy Autumnal Equinox! The seasons are changing -- nights are gradually getting longer than days. The Sun enters Libra, so let's take an in-depth look at the 7th sign.

In Elements & Evolution: The Spiritual Landscape of Astrology, I illustrate how each part of the system has an evolutionary relationship with all of the other parts. First off, each sign has its own evolutionary purpose. Then, in the great Evolutionary Cycle, every sign builds from its predecessor while providing a foundation for its successor. Therefore the evolutionary storyline follows a sequential order whereby each sign directly relates to the one before, and the one that follows. All of the remaining signs provide another “face” to the sign in question. Here’s how it works.

The evolutionary task of Libra is to develop the “I—Thou” connection, to be in relationship. In the Evolutionary Cycle, developing competence (Virgo/Stage 6) prepares us to enter equal relationships, which are necessary for us to hold our power (Scorpio/Stage 8) with others, and ultimately, in the world.

The opposition between Libra and Aries deals with the issue of behavior, how we conduct ourselves with others. The evolutionary purpose is for an individual (Aries) to learn through the
process of socialization (Libra). Others provide a mirror for self-reflection.

With the trine, the combination of Gemini and Libra produces communica­tion—sharing our thoughts (Gemini) with another (Libra). Information (Gemini) is transferred into interpersonal contexts (Libra). Libra’s other trine is with Aquarius; this pairing brings the interper­sonal dynamics of Libra to the collective level. The theme here is sociological—how we can all get along harmoniously on this planet. The integration of this trine produces culture—the collec­tive agreements, customs and behavioral norms that serve as social glue.

Next is the square. The integration of Libra and Capricorn produces civiliza­tion. Capricorn involves institutions, the structure of government, and other social systems. Libra adds laws to bring about fairness, social norms, diplomacy, and outreach. Capricorn cements Libran concepts (liberty, equity, and judicious­ness) into form. The square between Libra and Cancer addresses the issue of getting personal needs met (Cancer) in relationships (Libra). Cancer is emotional and wants depth and nourishment, while Libra calls for harmony, agreement, and cooperation—the integration is romantic love.

Through the sextile, Libra has a connection with Leo. These social signs pertain to engagement. Sharing (Leo) supports connecting (Libra), and this aspect lights up interactions in life-affirming ways. The territory here is not exclusively romantic, though the vibe could be like the energy experienced on a successful first date. Libra’s other sextile is with Sagittarius, the sign of direction. The integration is politics, using a broad definition. Collaboration (Libra) supports policy (Sagittarius)—this aspect deals with how people join together to achieve a purpose.

Finally, the quincunx connects Libra to Pisces, which asks us how we could humanly connect (Libra) in Spirit (Pisces)? How do we embrace each others’ souls? With this aspect we connect the scattered pieces of Spirit together through relating. The integration lies with the Sanskrit word Namaste, the common greeting that honors the light of divinity in each other. Libra’s other quincunx is with Taurus. Both of these signs are ruled by Venus, the goddess of beauty. Taurus relates to the senses, the body, and the beauty of the physical world. Libra is conceptual, addressing aesthetics and the airy world of social norms and civility. The meeting point is art. Integration is found through materializing (Taurus) ideals of beauty (Libra).

Using this approach, the 10 Faces of Libra are: relationship, behavior, communication, culture, civilization, romantic love, engagement, politics, Namaste, and art. All of the various components of Libra are represented. For more information on Elements & Evolution, or to purchase the book, please see our website (www.SoulVisionConsulting.com).

Eric Meyers, M.A.

Venus Retrograde: The Descent and Re-Emergence of Venus

This fall, Venus retrograde takes us on a 40-day journey (Oct. 8-Nov. 18, 2010) back through Scorpio territory. She’ll also take a short trip back into Libra for a few degrees. How we relate with others (Venus and Libra) and, in particular, how we relate intimately (Scorpio) is up for reassessment during this retrograde period. How deeply do we want to share with others and on what levels? How do we feel about our sexuality? In what ways do we feel empowered or disempowered? Are we feeling valued, appreciated, and supported? How are the unhealed wounds from the past impacting our current relationships? The deep waters of Scorpio are charged with tremendous power, emotional intensity, and passion. They also hold great potential for regeneration.

Venus retrograde, in Scorpio, can take us on a journey of descent...a descent into the dark shadows of our psyches. If we have hurt, or been hurt, through the abuse of power, the violation of trust, or the misuse of sexual energies, these wounds may be crying out for healing and forgiveness. If we carry feelings of shame, inhibition, or guilt about our sexuality, or if we struggle with issues of jealousy, fear of abandonment, or fear of merging, this retrograde period is an ideal time for inner work and emotional processing. And because Venus in Scorpio deals with intense interpersonal dynamics, our intimate relationships may be affected by what is revealed through this transit.

As Erin Sullivan writes, in her book Retrograde Planets, “More often than not, the area in the chart which is being examined by Venus retrograde has gone unattended for some time-certainly with this deep perspective. One tends unconsciously to withdraw, seeking hidden meaning in experience, hoping to draw value or deeper knowledge from one’s daily interactions.” Perhaps during this retrograde period, we may need some time for both our personal process and working on our relationships.

If we are willing to look within and shine the light of awareness into the shadowy places, Venus retrograde in Scorpio also holds the promise of rebirth and regeneration. She brings us opportunities to reclaim our power and passion, and our capacity for truth-telling. She opens us to the profound gifts exchanged through multi-leveled intimacy. A radiant Venus in Scorpio enjoys the sharing of sexual power and the beauty of the erotic arts. She values and appreciates herself and those she is in relationship with. She trusts in abundance and partakes in the eternal flow of resources between herself and others. As Venus dives into the depths of Scorpio, she may at first find herself swimming with sharks. But with a willingness to heal the past, she may ultimately discover a treasure-chest filled with jewels to share with those she loves.

May you be blessed with power, passion, and pleasure!
Sajit

Additional resources:
Empower Your Authentic Sexuality: A Movement Group for Women http://soulvisionconsulting.com/authentic.html

Laura Boomer-Trent blog: Venus in Scorpio & A retrograde dance of Magnetic Balance http://zodiac-heaven.blogspot.com/

Anthony Fiorenza article: The Venus Transits, The Pentagonal Cycle of Venus http://www.lunarplanner.com/HCpages/Venus.html