BLOOD OF THE LIGHTNING MOON By Our Flamen Antinoialis Antonius Subia

There is a Mountain waiting behind the mist

In the wilderness of the soul

Halfway between here and death.

The last of the Blood Moons is rising to the summit

And the young storm bringer is climbing higher. 

We go to meet him there

Following the path of the beautiful god.

Everything has changed,

The wheels of the cosmos turn again as

A flash of fire descending from the sky

...both the priest and his offering are consumed.

Blood of the Lightning Moon

~ANTONIUS SUBIA

METEOR GLASS FOR THE LIGHTNING MOON By Our Crystal Therapy Adviser Martin Campbell

THE Aries Full Moon ... the "Lightning Moon" in Antinous Moon Magic ... ushers in a period of potentially intense and/or sudden change.

Tonight's Lightning Moon is special because it is also a Super Moon and a Total Lunar Eclipse ... the first time a Super Total Eclipse has occurred in three decades. 

So, I recommend the following:

Moonstone - this is absolutely the best crystal at this time. It helps accepting change as part of a cycle of moon phases. 

Bloodstone - helps you to act in the present moment, and deal with change. It is also meant to help you control the weather!

Clear Calcite - Helps you accept new beginnings.

Aqua Aura - my favourite suggestion for this lunar cycle. (Photo top of this entry.) It is clear quartz crystal fired in an oven with gold dust. So not dissimilar to being struck by gold lightning! The process creates a magical blue crystal. 

Friends of mine comment on the 'point' I often wear with a deep blue Iolite mounted in silver with it (one of the attributes of Iolite is supporting the body in improving physical health). 

Aqua Aura creates space for something new to come into your life. Of course, being 'created' by man made processes may mean that some people get sniffy about it! 

I usually only recommend crystals that are readily available. The above are all readily available although the Aqua Auras can be expensive.

As this is an unusual moon, however, I thought it might be interesting to mention two other crystals which are ‘striking’ in that they came about via massive strikes on the earth. Not from lightening though…

Moldavite – Thousands of years ago a huge meteorite struck earth in Europe. The impact site is now covered by regions of Moldova, the Czech Republic and Germany. 

The intense heat of the impact turned the trees, soil and rocks into a deep green "glass" tektite crystal called Moldavite which was scattered for many miles around the impact crater. Most of the central crater has now been mined of the tonnes of Moldavite it once contained.  It is much harder to find the crystals blown many miles away from that central point. So Moldavite can be very expensive – especially the delicate, tree-like, ones found in the Czech region of Besednice.

Due to its origins, Moldavite is ‘high vibrational’. Its energies flow at a level of vibration above virtually all other crystals. It will put you in touch with your higher self and ‘higher’ beings – especially if placed over your third eye. Be careful though! Many people can’t cope with the sudden head rush that Moldavites can create. I have brain damage so find I can’t go near them – especially the Besednice ones. I get very disorientated. My partner loves them so I always carry grounding crystals in case I come to near him if he is using one!

Libyan Gold/Libyan Glass Tektite - Thousands of years ago a huge meteorite struck earth in north Africa. The impact site is now covered by regions of Libya and Egypt. The intense heat of the impact turned the desert sands into a yellow ‘glass’ tektite crystal called Libyan Gold or Libyan Glass.

I usually just refer to it as Libyan Glass. 

These crystals can be very beautifully and jewellers can turn them into amazing pieces to wear. 

The Egyptian pharaohs sought out chunks of Libyan Glass to adorn their jewellery – they also knew of its magical attributes… Libyan Glass was said the bring the sun god – the Aten - to earth.

The Aten was the god who the heretical pharaoh Akhenaten worshipped and tried to make all Egyptians worship. 

It is interesting, therefore, that his son Tutankhamum (under whom Egypt was returned to its old gods) has a Libyan Glass scarab beetle carved as the central piece to the strings of jewels lain across his chest for burial (photo at the top of this entry).

Libyan Glass will help protect you on any journey, physical or spiritual. It will also help you to put the past behind you, to separate you from any negativity you have previously experienced. It is also high vibrational but the energy is smoother, less dramatic. I love it and have several pieces including a spear probably a thousand years old.

Love and Light until next week,

MARTIN

MARTIN CAMPBELL is an author living in Britain who is adept at Antinous Moon Magic in its special forms of pendulum, card reading and crystal magic. He is the author of THE LOVE GOD, a historical novel tracing the life of Antinous from the moment his tousle-haired head emerges from his mother's womb under auspicious stars in Asia Minor to the moment his head sinks beneath the swirling waters of the Nile on a starry evening in Egypt.

THE LIGHTNING MOON OF ANTINOUS THE ARIES FULL MOON

TONIGHT's Aries Full Moon is the moon when surprises occur which can change your life in the blink of an eye.

In Antinous Moon Magic, we call this Lunar Phase the LIGHTNING MOON. Each Lunar Phase represents a Divine Spirit or Archetype. The Spirit of the LIGHTNING MOON is the Spirit of Suddenness. This Spirit is immediate, spontaneous, abrupt, instantaneous. It is all things that are as fast as lightning, quick as a flash, operating at the speed of light.

We call it the LIGHTNING MOON because of the bolt of lightning which nearly killed Hadrian and Antinous atop Mount Casius near the mouth of the Orontes River in Asia Minor. 

It was at the season of the Autumnal Equinox in the year 129 AD that the imperial court ascended Mount Casius as it was called by the Greeks and Romans. It was called Zaphon in biblical accounts and is called Mount Aqraa today, situated on the border between Syria and Turkey.

Atop this mountain overlooking the sea was a Temple of the Sun dedicated to Jupiter. A storm broke while they made their ascent, and Hadrian had the priests conduct the Equinox ceremony in the rain.

During the sacrifice at the altar, a bolt of lightning struck with a horrific, earth-shattering clap of thunder, killing the priest and the sacrificial animal together.

This was taken as a very significant portent, one that Antinous alone comprehended, the darkness of the coming death and transfiguration were presaged.

Hadrian took it as a sign that the gods of Syria had turned against him, thinking it was Baal-Zeus who struck down the priests as a warning to Hadrian of what lay ahead during the fateful journey which would end in the tragic death of Antinous.

The LIGHTNING MOON is the most impetuous and accident-prone moon of the year.

However, it is not a Lunar Phase to fear. Abrupt change can be frightening, but this Lunar Phase reminds us that change is a necessary part of life. And sometimes we need to be shocked out of lethargy in order to move in a new direction. 

In magical rituals, this Lunar Phase is ideal for effecting speedy and immediate results. In spiritual meditation, it is suited for bringing out inspiration which comes out of no where, like a bolt out of the blue.

And in mundane, everyday life, it reminds us to watch our step, keep our eye on the road and don't stand exposed on a mountain top during a thunderstorm -- unless, of course, you are prepared to undergo a dramatic transfiguration.

ASTRO FORECAST: SEPT. 24 — OCT. 4, 2015

Antinous Astrology Forecast

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SEPT. 24 to OCT. 4, 2015

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THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 24, 2015

On Thursday casual conversations turn into ugly arguments which can end in tears when lying Libra Mercury squares off against stubborn Capricorn Pluto. Mercury is deceptively smooth-talking in Libra and Pluto is eager to dismantle established structures in Capricorn (which explains what is happening in global finances and politics). Because Mercury is currently Retrograde, this means old crises suddenly boil over again. Mercury square Pluto is an aspect which encourages con men to try to pull a fast one on gullible souls. If you are gullible, then watch out. If you are a con man, then this is your day to shine.

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 25, 2015

On Friday don't be surprised when "conflicts" dissipate overnight ... when Mars leaves drama-queen Leo and enters caring-and-sharing Virgo starting Tuesday (til 13th November) ... where Mars energizes healing while soothing the heart ... Virgo Mars empowers you to act in a responsible and supportive way to help others ... and yourself! Martian ambition will be channeled into productive avenues from now until November 13th. That means some protracted disputes will seem to resolve themselves almost literally overnight.

SATURDAY/SUNDAY SEPT. 26/27, 2015

This weekend things get intense when Mars forms a 90-degree square right angle to Saturn. It is like driving down a highway with one foot on the brake and the other on the accelerator because Mars wants to press the pedal to the metal, while Saturn wants a cautious, go-slow approach. The result is pent-up frustration which boils over into rage. Open warfare breaks out not only in crisis regions of the world, but also in street traffic, in your work place and in your domestic relationship. Cold-blooded, vengeful wrath strangles out rational thought.

MONDAY SEPTEMBER 28, 2015

On Monday the ARIES FULL MOON reminds you that the calendar may say it is autumn, but you can still sow some wild oats! But be careful: In Antinous Moon Magic we call this the LIGHTNING MOON for the bolt of lightning which nearly killed Hadrian and Antinous atop Mount Cassius in autumn of the year 129 AD. The LIGHTNING MOON is the most impetuous and accident-prone moon of the year.

TUES.-THURS. SEPT. 29-OCT. 1, 2015

On Tuesday through Thursday your brain is ablaze with often confusing and conflicting ideas when Retrograde Mercury aligns with the Sun. Old astrology texts dating back to Ancient Rome call this a potentially hazardous time, and speak of a "Scorched Mercury" which impairs communications and judgment. But in ANTINOUS MOON MAGIC, we see that very differently. This Sun/Mercury conjunction is indeed intense, but in a positive way. Antinous/Mercury focuses the gay spiritual light of his heavenly father Ra-Herakhte right at you. Open your spiritual heart to the light and joy and permit it to burn away all doubt and all fear and trepidation. Most people live in spiritual darkness. They are like people who live in caves and are afraid of sunlight because it hurts their eyes. But should we shun the light and stay in the cave with them? Antinous/Mercury says it's safe to open your spiritual eyes — and spiritual heart — and become accustomed to the light.

FRIDAY OCTOBER 2, 2015

On Friday the work week ends in a flurry of activity when ANTINOUS THE MOON GOD forms positive aspects with Mercury and the Sun, but rather more challenging aspects with Mars, Neptune and Jupiter. You can expect high tension, but in a generally good-natured manner.

SATURDAY OCTOBER 3, 2015

This is a definite party weekend for sure when ANTINOUS THE MOON GOD engages in a sexy sextile with impetuous Uranus and also with hot aspects with Mercury, Sun, Mars, Neptune and Jupiter. Invite friends over, move the furniture out of the way, and start dancing.

SUNDAY OCTOBER 4, 2015

On Sunday the Earth will shake and conflicts will rumble around the globe ... and throughout your own household when ANTINOUS THE MOON GOD is at right angles to the Sun. This is the Cancer Third Quarter Moon, which is the DISCORDIA MOON in Antinous Moon Magic ... The goddess Discordia can be a powerful friend ... or deadly foe. Many gay men have assertiveness problems. On a gay spiritual level, the Discordia Moon shines its light on problem areas where you need to stand up and assert yourself. Anger is one of the most cathartic emotions, and it can also be a very effective cleanser of the emotional system. However, when it becomes a habit, it actually loses its power to transform and becomes an obstacle to growth. Meditations and rituals during the Discordia Moon can help you in identifying the role anger plays in your life and restoring it to its proper function so that it can bring new energy and expansiveness to your emotional life.

SNEAK PREVIEW OF NEXT WEEK:

Another exciting week lies ahead between October 5 and 11 when Mars is in opposition to Neptune to spawn fears, worries and paranoiac delusions on the global level. On the personal level, you may experience sexual inadequacy doubts. Don't worry: this will only last a day or so and won't happen again for about two years. The last time Mars and Neptune were in opposition was in October 2013.... More details next time ....

IT'S YELLOW JASPER & AMETHYST FOR THE EQUESTRIAN MOON By Our Crystal Meditation Advisor Martin Campbell

OUR well traveled astrological expert Hernestus has prompted me that the coming moon phase is theEquestrian Moon (Sagittarius First Quarter Moon). It will bring thoughts of  travel - both physical and spiritual journeys.

There are some among us who have traveled in the footsteps of Antinous and Hadrian. 

Right now our companion in Antinous,  Andriy Bendyna, is following our gods Antinous and Hadrian through Greece - keeping us up to date via Facebook as he sees each divine place and relic. Blessed be to him. 

I have trodden in those same footsteps and also followed my gods across Britain, Italy and Egypt. An epic journey but worth every penny/cent and every step.

Of course we spiritual folk also take spiritual leaps of faith and journeys into our hearts and those of our gods. These are perhaps the hardest of all journeys at the outset. We may need guidance to start or to understand what it is we see, think or feel as the journey unfolds. They can be epic too. 

We are all on the path - enjoy the ride!

To help you to meditate on these journeys and during this moon, I recommend that you use the following crystals to enhance your experience:

Yellow Jasper - These attractive stones protect you during journeys and helps to feel energized to do so. 

No doubt that is one reason the artesans of Ancient Egypt created the breath-taking head of a queen or princess (shown above) out of yellow jasper. This fragment was found in the ruins of "heretic" Pharaoh Akhenaten's city ... a scant 20 km south of Antinoopolis.

Amethyst - Yes my old favourite again! One of its many attributes is to help you to have out of body experiences and intuitive dreams if you sleep with it under your pillow. 

Love and Light,

MARTIN

To get more advice from Martin Campbell and to find out how to contact him CLICK HERE.

THE EQUESTRIAN MOON OF ANTINOUS THE SAGITTARIUS FIRST QUARTER MOON

TONIGHT Antinous the Moon God is in his first quarter in the lofty sign of Sagittarius, the sign of travellers, voyagers, pilgrims and those who embark on Gay Spiritual Quests.

In Antinous Moon Magic, each lunar phase represents a spiritual archetype. We call this First Quarter Sagittarius Moon the EQUESTRIAN MOON.

The Equestrian Moon is the best night of the year for blessings involving travel. 

Bless your faithful car, bike, boat -- or your beloved horse! 

This is the day to meditate or do a ritual involving a house move, change of jobs or relocation. 

On a deeper level, this lunar phase speaks of your spiritual movement, astral travel and astral projection -- this Moon says: "Try it, you can do it!"

Here's a lovely depiction of the Equestrian Moon symbolism from Italian artist Giorgio Tavaglione's L'ORACOLO DELLA SIBILLA oracle cards.

ASTRO FORECAST: SEPTEMBER 17 — 27, 2015

Antinous Astrology Forecast

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SEPTEMBER 17 to 27, 2015

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THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 17, 2015

On Thursday two momentous things happen: First, Mercury does an about-face and goes "backwards" as seen from Earth until October 9th. Click here for details on how RETROGRADE MERCURY can create confusion in communications and commerce.

But the second celestial event on Thursday prompts you to go for the gold when Virgo Jupiter and Pisces Neptune are in 180-degree opposition to each other ... for the first time since the California Gold Rush days of 1849! Key words: Amazing grace. Delusions of grandeur. Dreaming the impossible dream. Mirages sparkling seductive in the desert, unobtainable. Invincible souls and susceptible bodies. Boom or bust, or maybe both. The opposition between Jupiter in Virgo and Neptune in Pisces at 7 degrees of each sign this September (exact on Thursday, September 17, but will be in effect September 12-21) is larger than life and yet shifty, hard to pin down or define. The possibilities are endless, for better and worse.

Note this date: August-October 1849. That was the last time Jupiter was in Virgo opposing Neptune in Pisces. That period offered up a few nuggets of gold we can glean some meaning from. It was a time quite literally awash in gold nuggets galore. The Gold Rush had begun the year before and hit its peak in 1849. California transformed from mostly rural, podunk towns into a booming gold hub in a very small time frame. Jupiterian excess and growth. It was a land of opportunity (Jupiter) for anyone willing to roll up their sleeves and get their hands dirty (Virgo). The rapidly expanding population came from every corner of the globe (Jupiter), making California into the melting pot (Neptune in Pisces) that it still is.

On the downside, however, are concern here regarding health matters. Neptune in Pisces tends to weaken the physical constitution and can get sloppy with sanitation; Jupiter in Virgo really exaggerates this. It is hard to say if this will play out stronger in individuals charts or on a broader scale, but there is potential for big outbreaks here, so take extra precautions regarding hygiene, environmental safety and the like. Respiratory infection — fluids in the lungs is a Neptune/Pisces thing — might be a particular concern.

Another concern is safety around bodies of water. Rain and storms can take on a life of their own, so pay attention to weather warnings if any are issued and avoid being around water if possible.

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 18, 2015

On Friday Saturn — the ruler of maturity, growth and challenges — leaves watery Scorpio for fiery Sagittarius, where it will stay for two years — until December 19, 2017. Saturn visits each zodiac sign every 28-30 years, so its arrival heralds a definitive two-to-three year period that reveals where our toughest lessons will be. Actually, Saturn entered Sadge last December, but then slipped backwards into Scorpio last March. Now it is in Sagittarius for good. Saturn’s last tour of Sagittarius was November 1985 until November 1988, so if you were born then, dial back through your personal history. You may see recurring themes, or issues that resurface. Saturn spotlights your "life's work," so stand tall and get cracking on the next round of this soul assignment.

Saturn and Sagittarius are strange bedfellows, because Sagittarius is the sign of optimism and expansion, while Saturn is all about restriction and harsh reality checks. But this blending of opposites could actually strike a healthy balance. Under Saturn’s measured approach, we may see the combustible global politics and uprising settle down again. Saturn can influence leaders, or leadership style, and with philosophical Sagittarius here, we may see some fascinating people rise through the ranks. Of course, as a brash fire-sign, Sagittarius can be rather dogmatic and outspoken, so we might also see a few grandstanding “armchair philosophers” who are more talk than action.

On the personal level, get ready to see major structures in your personal and/or professional life take on a whole, mature new shape. For the past two years, Scorpio Saturn was all about the little details, but now for the next three years you will find yourself focusing on the big picture as Saturn moves through Sagittarius.

Another concern is safety around bodies of water. Rain and storms can take on a life of their own, so pay attention to weather warnings if any are issued and avoid being around water if possible.

SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 19, 2015

On Saturday you morph into Crabby McGrumpypants when ANTINOUS THE MOON GOD aligns in conjunction with Saturn on the cusp of Sagittarius while squaring off against the historic Jupiter/Neptune opposition configuration which began on Thursday. During the course of the day, the Moon moves away from Saturn, enabling you to exit the shadow of grouchiness and assume a party mood for Saturday evening.

SUNDAY/MONDAY SEPT. 20/21, 2015

Overnight Sunday/Monday we come to the Sagittarius First Quarter Moon, which we call the EQUESTRIAN MOON in Antinous Moon Magic ... the Lunar Phase we associate with spiritual movement and progress, astral travel and astral projection ... On the material level, this Lunar Phase is excellent for making travel plans and for carrying out rituals for a safe journey with bountiful spiritual rewards ... or at least for washing that vehicle of yours.

TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 22, 2015

On Tuesday expect an unexpectedly spontaneous and surprise-filled day because Venus is in a rosy trine aspect to Uranus. This is a recipe for impromptu meetings with unexpected guests. You encounter strangers who turn out to be long-lost soul mates ... or at least they are people you would like to become your soul mate.

WEDNESDAY SEPTEMBER 23, 2015

On Wednesday the Sun leaves anxious Virgo and sails into laid-back Libra for the Equinox. This is when we celebrate the PERSEPHONEA when the Sun enters the first degree of Libra. In the Northern Hemisphere this is the Autumnal Equinox ushering in autumn. For our brothers in the Southern Hemisphere, this is the Vernal Equinox and spring is on the way — the jacarandas will soon be in bloom. Wherever you live, this is one of two days each year when daytime and nighttime are equal. It is time to reflect on balance in your own life.

THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 24, 2015

On Thursday casual conversations turn into ugly arguments which can end in tears when lying Libra Mercury squares off against stubborn Capricorn Pluto. Mercury is deceptively smooth-talking in Libra and Pluto is eager to dismantle established structures in Capricorn (which explains what is happening in global finances and politics). Because Mercury is currently Retrograde, this means old crises suddenly boil over again. Mercury square Pluto is an aspect which encourages con men to try to pull a fast one on gullible souls. If you are gullible, then watch out. If you are a con man, then this is your day to shine.

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 25, 2015

On Friday don't be surprised when "conflicts" dissipate overnight ... when Mars leaves drama-queen Leo and enters caring-and-sharing Virgo starting Tuesday (til 13th November) ... where Mars energizes healing while soothing the heart ... Virgo Mars empowers you to act in a responsible and supportive way to help others ... and yourself! Martian ambition will be channeled into productive avenues from now until November 13th. That means some protracted disputes will seem to resolve themselves almost literally overnight.

SATURDAY/SUNDAY SEPT. 26/27, 2015

This weekend things get intense when Mars forms a 90-degree square right angle to Saturn. It is like driving down a highway with one foot on the brake and the other on the accelerator because Mars wants to press the pedal to the metal, while Saturn wants a cautious, go-slow approach. The result is pent-up frustration which boils over into rage. Open warfare breaks out not only in crisis regions of the world, but also in street traffic, in your work place and in your domestic relationship. Cold-blooded, vengeful wrath strangles out rational thought.

SNEAK PREVIEW OF NEXT WEEK:

Another exciting week lies ahead between September 28 and October 4 when the ARIES FULL MOON reminds you that the calendar may say it is autumn, but you can still sow some wild oats! But be careful: In Antinous Moon Magic we call this the LIGHTNING MOON for the bolt of lightning which nearly killed Hadrian and Antinous atop Mount Cassius in autumn of the year 129 AD. The LIGHTNING MOON is the most impetuous and accident-prone moon of the year.... More details next time ....

SOMETIMES A CHEAP EBAY BARGAIN TURNS OUT TO BE A WORK OF ART

I had a huge surprise during tonight's PLOTINA MOON. 

I bought a new KYLIX for the ritual ceremonies at the HOLLYWOOD TEMPLE OF ANTINOUS. 

I found it on eBay for $15. This was supposed to replace the pewter kylix which we have been using for a few years. 

I thought this one looked good, it had little lion head handles, and it was silver plated ... or so I thought ....

But even when I was cleaning it I could tell that something was different. 

And then I saw the 925 mark which means it's Sterling. 

This thing is solid silver!

It turns out that this is probably one of the fabulous items I have ever found. 

It is from Thessalonica Greece. 

I don't know the age, but as far as I am concerned and how I feel, this cup is elevated to an exalted status ... the most beautiful object Antinous has given to me to elevate his cult.

Flamen Antinoialis

~ANTONIUS SUBIA

IT'S SERPENTINE FOR THE PLOTINA MOON By Our Crystal Meditation Advisor Martin Campbell

OUR scintillating astrology expert Hernestus has advised me that this moon phase is the Virgo New Moon, the Plotina Moon in the Antinous faith. This moon puts us in mind of our grandmothers, older wise women or the Pagan 'Crone'. 

Many women display great wisdom - we have all met such women or grown up with them.

Trajan's wife, Empress Plotina, was a guiding force behind Hadrian as he waited in the wings to become Emperor. She was not so much a mother figure as a wise and forceful guide who put his feet on the path to lofty heights.

My maternal grandmother was the 'Plotina' in my life. She was worldly, strong, indomitable and totally understood me. 

When my Dad tried to get me to do 'manly things' it was she who took Dad aside and explained to him that I was a 'sensitive' boy who should not be troubled with such nonsense!! Blessed be to her in her next life.

Embrace your feminine aspects - they are part of you and help to balance your more driven masculine and sexual nature. 

Crystals, are of course, often perceived as a 'girl' thing. I am studying to be a crystal healer and have met very few men who study this art. 

As I work with my crystals I call in guidance from my spirit guides and angels. My angels are male but my guides are female. It is nice having the balance - I think I do better work having this approach.

For this moon I would recommend that you meditate holding or being with an image of the following crystals:

Howlite - these are typically greenish white but can be artificially coloured/colored. They help prepare your mind to receive wisdom and insights. Women are often very patient and this is a crystal which helps to embody this in you.

Serpentine - these many coloured/colored crystals (top photo) help you to understand the spiritual aspects of your life and help you to receive or retrieve insights and great wisdom from various sources.

Ametrine - these lovely crystals are a natural blend of Amethyst and Citrine crystal. They help you to unite your feminine and masculine aspects to overcome prejudice and take control of your life - just like my late grandmother did for me!

In Light and Life,

MARTIN

To get more advice from Martin Campbell and to find out how to contact him CLICK HERE.

THE PLOTINA MOON VIRGO NEW MOON

TONIGHT's Virgo New Moon is the lunar phase which, in Antinous Moon Magic, is called the PLOTINA MOON in honor of Emperor Trajan's wife, the Empress Plotina, who lobbied on Hadrian's behalf, ensuring he would be Trajan's successor.

Hadrian was a favorite of Plotina's and she did everything in her power to further his career and to position him to succeed her husband Trajan as emperor. Indeed, it is said that, upon Trajan's death, Plotina forged his signature on a will naming Hadrian as his successor.

It has been speculated that she and Hadrian were lovers, though his preference for males and their age difference (she was old enough to be his mother) may make that speculation seem a bit far-fetched.

Whatever the case, Plotina showered Hadrian with love, favors and the wealth of her insights into the machinations and workings of the inner coterie surrounding the Emperor.

Thanks to Plotina's tutelage, Hadrian was well-equipped to become emperor.

Each lunar phase represents a Divine Spirit or Archetype. The Spirit of the Plotina Moon is the Spirit of the Crone, the Wise Woman, the White Witch, the Great Mother Isis. She is a Spirit Guide.

She is not maternal like a mother, but instead she is more of a doting grandmother or great aunt. This Spirit has seen everything, been everywhere and experienced everything.

Life has few surprises left for this Spirit, and yet she marvels anew at each bright new day of discovery. There is always something yet to be discovered, some new secret to be unveiled, some riddle to be solved.

The Spirit of Plotina is ever seeking to reveal all and to share her vast grimoire of secret knowledge with her favorite protege.

The Virgo New Moon comes at the end of summer in the Northern Hemisphere when crops have been harvested and leaves are beginning to fall and the heat of summer wanes. In the Southern Hemisphere, this is the New Moon signalling a time to put away winter clothes and plant for spring with the knowledge you have gained during the winter.

It is the same New Moon, and ANTINOUS THE MOON GOD gazes down on both hemispheres. The days are getting shorter and the days are getting longer. Yet, our Lunar Deity invites us to look beyond the calendar to seek the wisdom that the PLOTINA MOON has to offer us, wherever we live.

The key words for the PLOTINA MOON are: Wisdom. Experience. Magnanimity. Old Age. Wise Woman. Vast Intelligence.

This lunar phase represents deep inner wisdom that comes from the "school of hard knocks".

This is the wise old "curandera" (white witch) who needs no books or rituals because the magic is deep down inside her soul. She and the magic are one and the same.

On a superficial level, this lunar phase is a time to honor to an older person, an old gay wizard, for example, who is influential in your life. On a deeper level, it is inviting you to become better acquainted with the ancient "curandero" (gay wizard) in your soul.

ASTRO FORECAST: SEPTEMBER 10 — 20, 2015

Antinous Astrology Forecast

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SEPTEMBER 10 to 20, 2015

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THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 10, 2015

On Thursday casual conversations turn into ugly arguments which can end in tears when lying Libra Mercury squares off against stubborn Capricorn Pluto. Mercury is deceptively smooth-talking in Libra and Pluto is eager to dismantle established structures in Capricorn (which explains what is happening in global finances and politics). So Mercury square Pluto is an aspect which encourages con men to try to pull a fast one on gullible souls. If you are gullible, then watch out. If you are a con man, then this is your day to shine.

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 11, 2015

On Friday unexpected last-minute assignments pile up on your work desk when ANTINOUS THE MOON GOD is at right angles to Scorpio Saturn ... possibly resulting in your having to stay late at work.

SATURDAY/SUNDAY SEPT. 12/13, 2015

Overnight Saturday/Sunday a partial Eclipse of the Sun occurs when we come to the Virgo New Moon, which is the lunar phase in Antinous Moon Magic we call the PLOTINA MOON in honor of Emperor Trajan's wife, the Empress Plotina, who lobbied on Hadrian's behalf, ensuring he would be Hadrian's successor ... The Spirit of the Plotina Moon is the Spirit of the Crone, the Wise Woman, the White Witch, the Great Mother Isis ... But "she" is a Spirit Guide who transcends gender — she is the ancient gay wizard in your soul. This Super New Moon signals the beginning of the last third of the calendar year. It is time to start wrapping up your projects for this year ... and making good on those bold and ambitious New Year's Resolutions.

MONDAY SEPTEMBER 14, 2015

On Monday the work week gets off to a business-like start when ANTINOUS THE MOON GOD forms a productive sextile aspect with Saturn to ensure that everyone rolls up their sleeves and gets to work.

TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 15, 2015

On Monday you might want to take a "mental health day" off from work when ANTINOUS THE MOON GOD forms stressful aspects with Pluto and Uranus along with high-energy configurationswith Mercury and Venus. This is a recipe for rage issues which come out of no where and then evaporate as quickly as they appeared. Lots of stress with little to show for it.

WEDNESDAY SEPTEMBER 16, 2015

On Wednesday you can forget about getting any work done when ANTINOUS THE MOON GOD goes VOID OF COURSE for 12 hours for all time zones around the world — causing delays, rescheduling, lost messages and missed opportunities. Remember we always say you should think of ANTINOUS THE MOON GOD as your favorite rock or pop star giving a concert. The VOC MOON is the break between sets. The singer goes back stage for a costume change and psychs themselves up for the next set. Meanwhile, the audience is waiting impatiently out front while video projections and doo-wah girls fill the interlude. That's what a VOID OF COURSE MOON feels like. Nothing much will happen during this VOC period — nothing bad, but nothing good either, just nothing. But on the plus side, a VOC is perfect for meditation, dream-scaping and contacting the spirit world.

THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 17, 2015

On Thursday you should go for the gold when Virgo Jupiter and Pisces Neptune are in 180-degree opposition to each other ... for the first time since the California Gold Rush days of 1849! Key words: Amazing grace. Delusions of grandeur. Dreaming the impossible dream. Mirages sparkling seductive in the desert, unobtainable. Invincible souls and susceptible bodies. Boom or bust, or maybe both. The opposition between Jupiter in Virgo and Neptune in Pisces at 7 degrees of each sign this September (exact on Thursday, September 17, but will be in effect September 12-21) is larger than life and yet shifty, hard to pin down or define. The possibilities are endless, for better and worse.

Note this date: August-October 1849. That was the last time Jupiter was in Virgo opposing Neptune in Pisces. That period offered up a few nuggets of gold we can glean some meaning from. It was a time quite literally awash in gold nuggets galore. The Gold Rush had begun the year before and hit its peak in 1849. California transformed from mostly rural, podunk towns into a booming gold hub in a very small time frame. Jupiterian excess and growth. It was a land of opportunity (Jupiter) for anyone willing to roll up their sleeves and get their hands dirty (Virgo). The rapidly expanding population came from every corner of the globe (Jupiter), making California into the melting pot (Neptune in Pisces) that it still is.

On the downside, however, are concern here regarding health matters. Neptune in Pisces tends to weaken the physical constitution and can get sloppy with sanitation; Jupiter in Virgo really exaggerates this. It is hard to say if this will play out stronger in individuals charts or on a broader scale, but there is potential for big outbreaks here, so take extra precautions regarding hygiene, environmental safety and the like. Respiratory infection — fluids in the lungs is a Neptune/Pisces thing — might be a particular concern.

Another concern is safety around bodies of water. Rain and storms can take on a life of their own, so pay attention to weather warnings if any are issued and avoid being around water if possible.

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 18, 2015

On Friday Saturn — the ruler of maturity, growth and challenges — leaves watery Scorpio for fiery Sagittarius, where it will stay for two years — until December 19, 2017. Saturn visits each zodiac sign every 28-30 years, so its arrival heralds a definitive two-to-three year period that reveals where our toughest lessons will be. Actually, Saturn entered Sadge last December, but then slipped backwards into Scorpio last March. Now it is in Sagittarius for good. Saturn’s last tour of Sagittarius was November 1985 until November 1988, so if you were born then, dial back through your personal history. You may see recurring themes, or issues that resurface. Saturn spotlights your "life's work," so stand tall and get cracking on the next round of this soul assignment.

Saturn and Sagittarius are strange bedfellows, because Sagittarius is the sign of optimism and expansion, while Saturn is all about restriction and harsh reality checks. But this blending of opposites could actually strike a healthy balance. Under Saturn’s measured approach, we may see the combustible global politics and uprising settle down again. Saturn can influence leaders, or leadership style, and with philosophical Sagittarius here, we may see some fascinating people rise through the ranks. Of course, as a brash fire-sign, Sagittarius can be rather dogmatic and outspoken, so we might also see a few grandstanding “armchair philosophers” who are more talk than action.

On the personal level, get ready to see major structures in your personal and/or professional life take on a whole, mature new shape. For the past two years, Scorpio Saturn was all about the little details, but now for the next three years you will find yourself focusing on the big picture as Saturn moves through Sagittarius.

Another concern is safety around bodies of water. Rain and storms can take on a life of their own, so pay attention to weather warnings if any are issued and avoid being around water if possible.

SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 19, 2015

On Saturday you morph into Crabby McGrumpypants when ANTINOUS THE MOON GOD aligns in conjunction with Saturn on the cusp of Sagittarius while squaring off against the historic Jupiter/Neptune opposition configuration which began on Thursday. During the course of the day, the Moon moves away from Saturn, enabling you to exit the shadow of grouchiness and assume a party mood for Saturday evening.

SUNDAY/MONDAY SEPT. 20/21, 2015

Overnight Sunday/Monday we come to the Sagittarius First Quarter Moon, which we call the EQUESTRIAN MOON in Antinous Moon Magic ... the Lunar Phase we associate with spiritual movement and progress, astral travel and astral projection ... On the material level, this Lunar Phase is excellent for making travel plans and for carrying out rituals for a safe journey with bountiful spiritual rewards ... or at least for washing that vehicle of yours.

SNEAK PREVIEW OF NEXT WEEK:

Another exciting week lies ahead between September 21 and 27 when the ARIES FULL MOON reminds you that the calendar may say it is autumn, but you can still sow some wild oats! But be careful: In Antinous Moon Magic we call this the LIGHTNING MOON for the bolt of lightning which nearly killed Hadrian and Antinous atop Mount Cassius in autumn of the year 129 AD. The LIGHTNING MOON is the most impetuous and accident-prone moon of the year.... More details next time ....

THE ANTINOUS MOON OF CONSOLATION THE GEMINI THIRD QUARTER MOON

TONIGHT's Gemini Third Quarter Moon is the lunar phase of serendipitous good fortune called the CONSOLATION MOON in Antinous Moon Magic.

Each Lunar Phase represents a Divine Spirit or Archetype. The Spirit of the Consolation Moon is the Spirit of the proverbial Cloud with a Silver Lining.

This Spirit calms and soothes and says it will all be better ...  and manages to work minor miracles which do in fact make things better.

This is the Spirit of the little things in life that make one smile ... a chance encounter, a pleasant discovery, a little something that brightens one's day.

This Spirit cannot solve all problems, but it can offer rest and refreshment and a word of encouragement and a kiss which invigorates and restores faith.

Remember Hermes, who rustled the beloved cattle herd of Apollo and initially denied any wrongdoing. Apollo was disillusioned and wrathful ... until Hermes/Mercury gave him his personally hand-made tortoise-shell lyre as a consolation.

Apollo was overjoyed. He had lost his cattle, but he had gained the most wonderful lyre on Mount Olympus. And the myth says that, together, Apollo and Mercury made beautiful music together forever after ... and that all music originated with this small consolation prize.

It is called the Consolation Moon because it is the Lunar Archetypal energy of serendipity and fortuitous misadventures. You win the Silver Medal (but not the Gold). You win $20 in the lottery (but not the jackpot of $20 million).

You open an email from an online bank expecting bad news ... but instead you find that your old Aunt Minnie has transferred a little money to you. 

Or you suddenly find $50 in an old wallet.

We associate this Lunar Phase with Antinous/Eleusis as depicted in the statue at the top of this entry. 

We remember the initiation of Antinous into the Eleusinian Mysteries in Greece at the outset of Emperor Hadrian's Imperial Tour of the Eastern Provinces.

It represents the spiritual illumination which Antinous received during the initiation ceremonies in the dark labyrinth ... his personal assurance that he could triumph over death, that death is not the end.

Meditations and rituals tonight should focus on finding ways to change a dire situation into a more positive one ... or turning a seemingly coincidental encounter into a serendipitous opportunity for gain.

IT'S CINNABAR FOR THE CONSOLATION MOON By Our Crystal Meditation Advisor Martin Campbell

OUR inimitable astrology expert Hernestus has advised me that tonight is the Antinous Consolation Moon (Gemini Third Quarter Moon).  

It is the lunar phase of small gifts - count your blessings even if they are small.

We can get complacent. We are surrounded by so much comfort, good health, friendship, family and social stability. 

We forget that so many gay people would be unbelievably grateful for such things in parts of the world where they are poor, persecuted or worse.

We must be thankful for all the blessings in our lives however small. 

If you would like to meditate holding a crystal to help you to count your blessings then I would suggest using:

1. CINNABAR - These crystals (top of page) help you to accept everything just as it is.

2. CELESTITE  - They attract good fortune and trust in the infinite wisdom of the divine to meet your desires.

Love and Light,

MARTIN

To get more advice from Martin Campbell and to find out how to contact him CLICK HERE.

ASTRO FORECAST: SEPTEMBER 3 — 13, 2015

Antinous Astrology Forecast

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SEPTEMBER 3 to 13, 2015

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THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 3, 2015

On Thursday ANTINOUS THE MOON GOD forms pleasant aspects with Neptune, the Sun and Pluto which enable you to fly through work. But a lover's tiff is pre-programmed for Thursday evening when the Moon is in challenging aspects with Leo Venus and Leo Mars. Because Venus is Retrograde right now, that argument may involve someone from your past.

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 4, 2015

On Friday you feel as if you will never get through the pile of work on your desk when ANTINOUS THE MOON GOD is at odds with stubborn Saturn and over-eager Jupiter. The mood lifts very late in the day, when it is finally party time.

SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 5, 2015

On Saturday ANTINOUS THE MOON GOD squares off against the Sun for the GEMINI THIRD QUARTER MOON which in Antinous Moon Magic is called the CONSOLATION MOON because it is the Lunar Archetypal energy of serendipity and fortuitous misadventures. You win the Silver Medal (but not the Gold). You win $20 in the lottery (but not the jackpot of $20 million). It is about finding a $50 bill in an old wallet.

SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 6, 2015

On Sunday the Sun is in a positively profound trine with Pluto that enables you to get down and dirty and show what is really inside of you ... deep ... down ... inside. This is a good day to grow beyond yourself ... shed your old shy image the way a snake sheds its skin ... and present your shining inner self to the world.

MONDAY SEPTEMBER 7, 2015

On Monday the new work week gets off to a very gentle start when ANTINOUS THE MOON GOD forms sweet aspects with Jupiter, Neptune and the Sun along with energy-filled configurations with Mercury and Pluto. Harmony and good will are the hallmarks of the day.

TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 8, 2015

On Tuesday it is high time to break free of chains which have bound you for far too long when Leo Mars forms a liberating trine aspect with Aries Uranus. In Antinous Moon Magic we call this the "Stonewall Configuration" because the Stonewall Riots best demonstrate what can happen ... an explosive and wholly unexpected rebellion. Because both planets are in fire signs, this aspect can spawn a sudden rupture or disruption of global consequences ... with long-lasting consequences. Uranus is Retrograde right now, which means these chains have been restraining us for much longer than necessary. Mars in selfish Leo says it is time to break the chains, and Uranus in impulsive Aries says the chains must be broken with no regard for danger or peril.

WEDNESDAY/THURSDAY SEPT. 9/10, 2015

On Wednesday/Thursday casual conversations turn into ugly arguments which can end in tears when lying Libra Mercury squares off against stubborn Capricorn Pluto. Mercury is deceptively smooth-talking in Libra and Pluto is eager to dismantle established structures in Capricorn (which explains what is happening in global finances and politics). So Mercury square Pluto is an aspect which encourages con men to try to pull a fast one on gullible souls. If you are gullible, then watch out. If you are a con man, then this is your day to shine.

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 11, 2015

On Friday unexpected last-minute assignments pile up on your work desk when ANTINOUS THE MOON GOD is at right angles to Scorpio Saturn ... possibly resulting in your having to stay late at work.

SATURDAY/SUNDAY SEPT. 12/13, 2015

Overnight Saturday/Sunday a partial Eclipse of the Sun occurs when we come to the Virgo New Moon, which is the lunar phase in Antinous Moon Magic we call the PLOTINA MOON in honor of Emperor Trajan's wife, the Empress Plotina, who lobbied on Hadrian's behalf, ensuring he would be Hadrian's successor ... The Spirit of the Plotina Moon is the Spirit of the Crone, the Wise Woman, the White Witch, the Great Mother Isis ... But "she" is a Spirit Guide who transcends gender — she is the ancient gay wizard in your soul. This Super New Moon signals the beginning of the last third of the calendar year. It is time to start wrapping up your projects for this year ... and making good on those bold and ambitious New Year's Resolutions.

SNEAK PREVIEW OF NEXT WEEK:

Another exciting week lies ahead between September 14 and 20 when we come to the Sagittarius First Quarter Moon, which we call the EQUESTRIAN MOON in Antinous Moon Magic ... the Lunar Phase we associate with spiritual movement and progress, astral travel and astral projection ... On the material level, this Lunar Phase is excellent for making travel plans and for carrying out rituals for a safe journey with bountiful spiritual rewards ... or at least for washing that vehicle of yours.... More details next time ....