Jupiter Enters Aquarius 2009
a more humane prospect

Every year, Jupiter, Lord of Fortune, moves from one sign to the next, setting the stage of human consciousness for the ensuing year. January 2009 sees the change from earthy Capricorn, the Goat, to airy Aquarius, the Water-Bearer, generating better chances for general success in life, but invoking a restless, nervous and erratic atmosphere in the collective, especially at a political, financial and religious level (these are the areas mainly governed by Jupiter). Rob Tillett, one of the founders of Astrology on the Web, discusses the effects this new transit will have on the various signs of the zodiac.

Click here to find out how it affects your sign!

On January 5th, 2009, Jupiter, the mighty lord of the ancient gods, moves from the sign of his Fall, Capricorn, the earthy sign of the Sea-Goat, to a somewhat less detrimental position in Aquarius, the Water-Bearer, an air sign. Whenever Jupiter changes signs, a new flavour is brought to the underlying experience of our lives. Bear in mind that Jupiter in the heavens remains in each sign of the zodiac for approximately twelve months, taking twelve years to transit the entire zodiac. At the end of each of these cycles, related matters must progress to a new level, or else they will fall away into obscurity and eventually oblivion.

This said, Jupiter's naturally expansive character is not so well expressed in Aquarius, a sign which is traditionally ruled by Saturn, a frugal, cautious influence. Jupiter in Aquarius is, notwithstanding, innately humane, optimistic, original and philosophical. Fond of friends and company, Aquarius is interested in science, mysticism, literature and music. Jupiter here improves our chances for general success in life, but can be restless, nervous and erratic, with a lack of inclination for serious work. Jupiter in Aquarius can operate efficiently within traditional ideas and institutions, while at the same time remaining receptive to ideas and activities that on the surface may seem fantastic or bizarre.

President Obama

Personal progress and growth under this influence are often achieved by dealing with situations that involve rebelling against tradition or the established order. Social attitudes are likely to become more broad-minded. The election of Barack Obama, a Leo, and the first African-American to achieve the presidency, fits in tightly with the astrology of change and of unconventionality. It's interesting that the first year of Obama's presidency will coincide more or less with Jupiter's transit of Aquarius, which can be an effective catalyst within various organisations and groups.

It is also worth noting that Obama has Aquarius rising and his natal Jupiter is placed in the first degree of Aquarius. At noon on the day of his inaguration, Jan 20, 2009, transiting Sun and retrograde Mercury are in the first degree of Aquarius (in the mid-heaven) in exact conjunction with his natal Jupiter, right on the fortunate fixed star, Tarazed, the Plundering Falcon! The keywords for this star are "spoil and plunder, imagination, strong passions, will, clairvoyance, fame, powerful mind". Gosh. Transiting Jupiter at this time is in the 4th degree of Aquarius, so still in a very close aspect and conjunct Prima Giedi, a harbinger of great good fortune. Transiting Jupiter is also in a fortunate trine aspect to his natal Moon, so this is the right time for a high point in his life! We should also note that the transiting Moon at noon is conjunct his natal Scorpio mid-heaven (power; public image; career; political leadership). It's also worth recalling that this inauguration occurs six days before the Solar Eclipse in Aquarius on the 26th January.

Saturn, the traditional planetary lord of Aquarius, is Obama's life-ruler and in his chart is strongly placed in ambitious Capricorn, conjunct the fixed star Terebellum, producing "Strength and power, rise in life, riches, cunning, disgrace". Interestingly, his Jupiter acts in terms of Saturn (restricting his optimism), and his Saturn acts in terms of Mars (increasing his readiness to use force of arms to impose structure). "Terms" is a traditional astrological dignity, little used these days, but still worth noting. His structured natal Saturn is tightly conjunct the mid-heaven (public image) at noon of the day in question. Since his natal Saturn is located in his twelfth house, this shows that, despite his Leonine ego, he is perhaps more reluctant to take the reins of power than might seem apparent at first glance. Saturn in the twelfth house gives him something of a preference for a secluded life and an occupation that involves secrecy, or concealed matters. In his chart, however, it is in a close trine to Mars (warfare) in Virgo (the military), bringing success in an official capacity in public institutions, asylums, hospitals or prisons. Good for presidency then. This position makes it difficult to receive recognition for his achievements, so he must confront any negative situations, learn from them, let them go and move forward with determination. The past can impose severe burdens on the present, as well as the future, for Barack Obama.

Under this transit, people will look for unorthodox, intellectual solutions to current problems. The tendency will be to gain understanding and wisdom through consultation, consensus, and a willingness to embrace what might seem to be outlandish solutions. Jupiter's transit through Aquarius in 2009 means our growth and expansion in life will require a reshaping of the collective to achieve a new level of consciousness that will focus on financial restructuring for the new Pluto-in-Capricorn era that is now beginning to unfold.

Opening a New Doorway

Jupiter's entry into Aquarius will shine a new light on the seemingly intractable problems of the past year or more, with a significant shift in consciousness emerging mid-year, as the Moon's Nodes change sign from Aquarius to Capricorn. Since Obama's Jupiter is in the first degree of Aquarius and the nodes travel in retrograde fashion through the zodiac, the Moon's North Node (karmic life-path) will be in conjunction with his Jupiter during much of June, July and August 2009. Remember this will be restimulating the Plundering Falcon... He will no doubt feel inspired to take action during this conjunction. The atmosphere after this period is likely to increase conservatism and incline people to cling to tradition, so the unorthodox solutions will have to prove themselves pretty quickly, or the world will be turning back to the tried and true!

Jupiter is a Time Lord

The cycles of Jupiter, in coordination with the cycles of Saturn, the other "Great Chronocrator", or "Time Lord", direct the energies that have significant effects on the collective being, marked especially by the conjunctions between these two massive forces, but also by the sign changes, hard aspects and retrograde periods. The cycles of astrology are reflected in our daily lives, as well as informing the patterns of our human creativity, whether artistic or musical, social, political or financial.

The last conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn occurred in May/June 2000 at 23° Taurus, the Fixed Sign of the Bull, which marked a number of major developments (see Jupiter's transit of Scorpio 2005). Jupiter next enters Taurus on June 4, 2011, but Saturn is not in aspect until this point (at 23° Taurus) is reached on May 16, 2012, when Jupiter and Saturn are exactly inconjunct by quincunx, just as Venus turns retrograde at 23° Gemini. 2012 marks the end of the Mayan Calendar, so mark that point in your diary...

In the even more distant future, Jupiter at 20° Leo is just prevented from reactivating the Fixed Sign Grand Cross via a square to Saturn at 23° Scorpio by the end of October 2014, due to slowing to a retrograde period just before catching up to Saturn, which then accelerates away leaving Jupiter in a cloud of cosmic dust. The next major hard aspect between the Time Lords is the square from Jupiter in the 15th degree of Gemini to Saturn in the 15th degree of Pisces on Christmas Eve 2025. It's a long way off, so don't lose too much sleep over it, folks.

Growth and Expansion

Jupiter rules our potential for growth and expansion on many levels: physical, intellectual, spiritual and cultural, along with the accumulation of material assets, power and status. He rules our optimism and aspirations, including our interests in faraway places, travel, foreigners, academic and artistic types, cultural endeavours such as publishing, higher education, structured personal development, healing, government and religion. Jupiter is a risk-taker, so also rules gambling and speculation, adventure – and moving into unknown territory.

Luck and wellbeing are primarily governed by Jupiter, known as the Greater Benefic (Venus is the Lesser Benefic). When well-aspected, the Thunder God brings superb opportunities for expansion and success. Poorly aspected, he generates over-confidence and foolhardy actions with little care for the consequences.

Here is a brief outline of the effects on each sign as Jupiter enters Aquarius for a period of twelve months. Remember to check the forecast for your rising sign too, for a more balanced reading. To calculate your rising sign, click here.

Aries, the Ram

Now that Jupiter is cruising through your house of friends, you'll feel so much more you. Set your sights high because at last you can realise your dreams and aspirations, make money from career-related activities and have serious fun with other people's children in your life. The income you gain from your career should expand and you can expect some financial assistance from friends and associates. Be content with what the world sends you, but if you owe friends money, make the effort to repay it. Watch out for bloodsuckers who, though incompetent themselves, may become envious and secretly work to bring you down. Matters connected with clubs or associations will pay dividends through positive action over the coming months, so join in and work towards the common goal.

Taurus, the Bull

As mighty Jupiter rolls into your mid-heaven, good fortune is heading your way in 2009. Your career and public image are in the spotlight and there's plenty of dumb luck about, so get your act together, Bulls, and shoot for the stars! You'll shine like a comet and so will attract the attention of prominent people who will be only too pleased to boost you into a better place, whether in the church, state, law or public affairs. You may even make a vast bundle through good luck rather than good judgement and if you are so inclined can feature in the stock exchange, banking, shipping, trade or trusts concerned with the public wellbeing. Keep a tight ship, as a misbehaving Bull will also show up in the glare of the cosmic footlights.

Gemini, the Twins

It's a fabulous year ahead for the Twins! Get to work and plan that vacation and make your decision about any cultural, religious, or educational involvement you have been thinking about. This year stimulates your optimistic nature and awakens your generous side. Religious or spiritual awakening is more than possible too, as the coming year has much potential for success and personal growth, especially as a result of decisions you take now. You'll be keen to travel and overseas contacts will feature strongly in your life. A second marriage, or anything to do with in-laws and your partner's relations can be satisfactorily organized now. However, you should avoid overdoing things and stay out of the law courts if you can.

Cancer, the Crab

This year brings some financial gain for the Crab through marriage and partnerships, but move with caution if taking on loans, mortgages or other forms of debt. Jupiter in the sign of the cool Water Bearer gives lenders the advantage. Your sexuality is likely to take a deeper form of expression than usual. Don't be surprised if you feel drawn to the occult and other hidden subjects related to the mysteries of life. Joint income, investments, collection of debts, taxes, insurance, inheritance and the settlement of estate matters are all areas that feature in the year to come.

Leo, the Lion

Jupiter cruising into your solar seventh house marks a year when you can form successful partnerships, alliances, or even tie the knot. Be sure to see and be seen, because the only way to take advantage of this potent energy is to get out and network. Court cases, legal decisions, partnership issues and any open conflicts are likely to be resolved in your favour. Lady Lions will be attracted to males who remind them of their fathers, but no matter what sex you are, partners and allies will bring stimulating experiences, broadening your store of knowledge and brightening your social life. Bear in mind, however, that those who come to you with grandiose ideas or the promise of some successful enterprise are unlikely to be able to deliver, no matter how well-intentioned they are. Of course, this is not to say you have no choice in the matter. Keeping a conservative attitude will serve you well in the months ahead.

Virgo, the Virgin

Jupiter's transit through the sign of the Water-Bearer gives a much more favourable outlook for your health and for relationships with co-workers and associated professionals. It's a good time to streamline your working routines; relations with subordinates can also be improved, though you'll be happiest when working unsupervised. Your work and responsibilities expand in scope during the year ahead and you may need to take on assistants, but don't believe that you are invincible, as pride often comes before a fall. Your job may require more travel, or advanced training – and, although your efforts will be rewarded, don't take any aspect of it for granted. A pet might enter your life, or perhaps you'll take more interest in small animals. Your interest in health and physical fitness may increase, but don't take your health too much for granted. Avoid procrastination and overeating.

Libra, the Scales

As Jupiter strides into attractive Aquarius, a year of romance, pleasure and creative, egoboosting fun is in the wind. This transit improves your lovelife, presents investment opportunities and creates happier relations with children. A good thing all round, really! Speculative opportunities will present themselves, so money can be made, as this is a period of excellent potential, even though partners may behave somewhat erratically from time to time. The watchword is forge ahead with confidence, but remember not to be over-confident, as Jupiter tends to excess. You will be inclined to take some judicious risks with gambling and speculative interests, but if you base these risks on a well-thought-through foundation, making use of your experience and expertise, you should do very well this year.

Scorpio, the Scorpion

The year ahead marks the beginning of a twelve-year cycle of learning and new experiences for Scorpio, as Aquarius symbolises your solar fourth house, the house of beginnings and endings. Your life must take things to a new level, or relationships, employment and other forms of personal interaction will likely fall away. Jupiter's transit of Aquarius brings comfortable, pleasant domestic relations and harmonious family surroundings, and you will greatly expand your personal, professional, and intellectual horizons. It's just the time for real estate and home renovation, or perhaps selling up and relocating to the home of your dreams. You will feel the call of higher education or a particular study, receive advanced training, or take on long distance travel, writing, publishing, or promotion. Decisions you make now, especially those influenced by people you meet, will be catalysts for new ventures that affect the next twelve years of your life.

Sagittarius, the Archer

New educational opportunities will arise for Archers in the coming year, with Jupiter moving through intellectual Aquarius. Your brothers, sisters, neighbours and the people you meet in your local environment will take up more of your time and attention. Communications and travel will widen your circle of contacts, exchanging and sharing ideas and information. Success comes through developing your mechanical skills, travel, or promotional activities that improve your status. It's the right time to acquire telephones, computers, answering machines, or other communication devices. Creative writing, publishing, or educational interests are highly favoured in coming months.

Capricorn, the Sea-Goat

You'll find that some of your cherished values and opinions will come under presssure, probably through the influence of philosophies or religions that are different to the ones you grew up with, Sea-Goats. Nevertheless, you'll do better this year through the proper allocation of your resources. Jupiter stimulates you to go for status to impress people, tempting you to spend on luxury items and status symbols. Your personal priorities and values are being redefined, but remember that under this influence money is the source of pleasure – which is fine if you can afford to spend it! How badly do you really need that new i-phone? Other expenditures concern higher education, political interests, religious or spiritual activities, travel, publishing and cultural pursuits.

Aquarius, the Water-Bearer

Jupiter is an optimistic and expansive influence, so in the coming year a good deal of benefit comes your way, as Jupiter transits your sign. Your unique way of presenting yourself to the world comes under the spotlight and it is a great time to push yourself forward and achieve your ambitions. It's the ideal period in which to pursue pleasure, advancement and executive honours. It's just the year to follow that urge to travel! As your health and physical appearance improves and your individuality comes into focus, you'll be uncharacteristically bullish and noticeably more outgoing and optimistic about the future. Pleasure is to be found just about everywhere! You should not hesitate to put your plans for advancement into action, as you will naturally attract attention and will exude confidence. Travel for pleasure, higher education or spiritual development is favoured, as people from distant parts or other religions and cultures to your own take the focus. You will benefit through interaction with them, so relax and enjoy the experience. Jupiter is expansive, but your expansion should not be mainly in the waistline! Avoid overindulgence in all forms, especially in food, drink and the pursuit of excitement, particularly gambling and speculation. Overconfidence will be the big trap.

Pisces, the Fishes

Aquarius marks your twelfth house of secrets, sorrows and sub-conscious motivation, but Jupiter, your life-ruler and the greater benefic, brings some advantage wherever he is cruising, even through the twelfth house. Benefit comes for the Fishes through fraternal or charitable institutions, connection with government departments, large corporations, hospitals, universities and the like. If you have the money, why not donate to institutions that aid the poor and needy? Even if you don't have much cash, you will be inclined to give of your time and energy to help the maimed, sick and otherwise unfortunate. In the coming year the focus turns to behind-the-scenes or otherwise solitary activities, even mystical or astrological studies. Any benefits or gains may be hidden, or at least not as obvious to others as might normally be the case, but you definitely need to pay attention to your spiritual development, issues connected with institutions, partner's health and concealed matters in general. Anything connected with the ocean may also attract you, either as a fascinating field of study or as a satisfying hobby. Avoid gambling and extravagance — though if you are in the entertainment business, you should do well.

Keep in mind that Jupiter turns retrograde on June 15, 2009, then returns to direct motion through the zodiac on October 13. The week or so either side of these dates will be excellent for making decisions about the matters outlined under your sign's forecast.

This concludes the article.

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