Friday, June 30, 2017

LOVELY LARIMAR FOR THE VENUS MOON
By Our Crystal Meditation Advisor Martin Campbell



OUR venerable astrological adviser Hernestus has informed me that this moon phase is the Libra First Quarter Moon when the Roman Emperors honoured Venus Genetrix (Venus Universal Mother). 

As such, we celebrate it as the "Venus Moon" of Antinous. This moon helps you to be nurtured or be nurturing to yourself. In doing so, blockages can be removed. 

With all of this in mind I suggest that you meditate with the following crystals during this moon phase:

Blue Lace Agate - These stunning, pale blue, stones (above right) are the best for nurturing and supportive yourself. They also help you to dissolve old patterns you may have of self repression. In particular these stones help men to embrace their more feminine aspects.

Larimar (AKA Dolphin Stone) - These beautiful, pale turquoise coloured stones (top photo) have only recently been found and mined in the Caribbean. They help to remove self-imposed blockages.

Red Calcite - Red Calcite - These crystals help remove blockages emotionally and shift negative energies.

Love and Light,
MARTIN 

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

THE VENUS MOON OF ANTINOUS
THE LIBRA FIRST QUARTER MOON


TONIGHT's Libra First Quarter Moon is the beautiful moon of balance and equilibrium at right angles to the emotional Cancer Sun which we call the VENUS MOON in Antinous Moon Magic.

The Libra First Quarter Moon is about flexibility and seeking balance between extremes enroute to the stability of the Capricorn Full Moon. This is the Lunar Phase which enhances nurturing and maternal instincts. It brings out the "inner mother" in each of us and reminds us that maternal love can be fierce and fearsome.

Each Lunar Phase represents a Divine Spirit or Archetype. The Spirit of the Sabina Moon is the Spirit of Motherhood and also the Spirit of the Caduceus. It is the Maternal Spirit which is soullessly devoted to its offspring and which will do anything to protect its babies.

It is at the same time the Spirit of the Serpent Goddess who writhes and coils. It is the Spirit which stops at nothing to achieve its aims. It is poison. And it is medicine.

It is the most slippery Lunar Spirit, the one which is most difficult to grasp. And it is quite possibly the most influential because it is the mother of all the others.

We remember Venus Genetrix (Venus Universal Mother), who was honored by every emperor after Julius Caesar as the Mother of Rome. In the time of Antinous, Venus Genetrix was identified with Empress Sabina Augusta, wife of Emperor Hadrian.  Much has been said over the centuries about how the marriage was a "sham" and that Hadrian and Sabina did not care for each other.


But the historical record shows that Hadrian cared a great deal ... he severely punished those who besmirched her name.

Flamen Antonyus Subia goes so far as to say there was genuine love between Hadrian and Sabina, and that Hadrian's respect for his wife was the prime reason why he was not more upfront about his relationship with Antinous.

Antonyus says: "Hadrian was very, very discreet about his relationship with Antinous .... That's why there is no direct evidence that the Religion of Antinous was a Gay or Homosexual religion, and there is no irrefutable evidence that Hadrian and Antinous even had a sexual relationship at all.

"Hadrian maintained discretion, for Sabina's sake...why would Hadrian want to shame Sabina? What had she done or said?" Antonyus asks. "Hadrian wanted to hold his love for Antinous up to the celestial sphere, but he would never push Sabina down into the mud...Hadrian had class."


Rituals and meditations tonight are best suited for questions about your mother or your "inner mother" and also about finding flexible solutions to problems. The serpentine qualities of the "Snake Goddess Moon" offer insights into how to slither around or through seemingly impervious barriers in life.

Tuesday, June 27, 2017

ASTRO FORECAST: JUNE 22-JULY 9, 2017

Antinous Astrology Forecast

JUNE 22-JULY 9, 2017


THURSDAY, June 22nd, 2017

On Thursday you will begin to feel all emotional now that both the Sun and Mercury are in Cancer. In particular, Mercury has left its home base of Gemini and entered emotion-oriented Cancer, so that your Conscious Mind will find itself engulfed in emotions during its brief visit of only two weeks to Cancer. This is the time to give voice to your emotions.

FRI-SATURDAY, June 23rd/24th, 2017

Overnight Friday-Saturday things get really romantic when Venus and Pluto bring good fortune to long-term relationships by means of a gentle trine aspect which cements relationships. In addition, we come to the CANCER NEW MOON. In ANTINOUS MOON MAGIC we call this the ADONIS MOON ... the lunar phase which enhances relationships ... Antinous has always been identified with Adonis, the god of beauty and desire, and a central figure in various mystery religions ... Adonis is the divine ideal lover ... Rituals and meditations tonight are best suited for focusing on your lover ... or how to find a lover ... or simply a good night for being with your lover.

SUNDAY, June 25th, 2017

On Sunday Mars gets all crabby and antagonistic when the war god is in a square-off against exaggeration-prone Jupiter . You might even feel a bit crab-like yourself. With Mars in Cancer, we are emotional, easily offended and defensive. Mars in Cancer can be passive-aggressive and manipulative and unforgiving! Jupiter intensifies these energies to the max.

MONDAY, June 26th, 2017

On Monday moody Cancer Mars is in a 120-degree trine aspect to dreamy Pisces Neptune. Imagine yourself barreling down a freeway at high speed ... and suddenly being enveloped in a fog bank which cuts visibility to zero. If you don't reduce speed immediately, you are bound for disaster. Cancer Mars is the fast sports car thundering down the highway ... and Pisces Neptune is the fog bank ... and you are in the driver's seat. This astrological configuration spells trouble for people who proceed full speed through life without any regard to their surroundings. They will come a cropper this week. However, this Mars/Neptune trine configuration is excellent for people who have latent intuitive, artistic or spiritual talents ... like Antinous-Dionysus. Mars invigorates and enlivens these talents. So the answer is: Proceed with caution, but keep your eyes open for brilliant new opportunities and insights which otherwise would have flashed past you unseen at high speed.

TUE-FRIDAY, June 27-30, 2017

This entire week is dominated by Gemini Mercury, which engages in some challenging aspects which will set the course for the coming six months of the year. First off, beware of online websites that promote gross exaggerations or promises that sound too good to be true — because most likely they aren't true. That's because Mercury and Jupiter are at right angles on Tuesday. Then Wednesday promises to be a gossipy sort of day when pouty Cancer Mercury is in a trine with vague and dreamy Neptune. On Thursday communications wizard Mercury aligns in perfect conjunction with war god Mars in emotional Cancer. This configuration is ideal for giving you convincing arguments for defending your fortress or your territory or just your rented room. If someone is trying to push you out ... Cancer Mercury and Mars will give your voice the eloquence ... and the volume ... you need to make yourself heard. But try not to over-do things, because Mercury/Mars are in at tight, 90-degree square angle to exaggeration-prone Jupiter. You might even feel a bit crab-like yourself. With Mars in Cancer, we are emotional, easily offended and defensive. Mars in Cancer can be passive-aggressive and manipulative and unforgiving! Jupiter intensifies these energies to the max. In addition, on Friday and all through the weekend Mercury and Mars are in opposition to Pluto, which is an age-old recipe for destruction, war, conflict and even earthquakes and volcanoes. For "normal" people this means Friday will be a day of unexpected and even cataclysmic upheaval. For spiritually minded gay people, Friday is a fine opportunity for working some startlingly effective Antinous Moon Magic.

SAT-SUNDAY, JULY 1st-2nd, 2017

This weekend we come to the Libra First Quarter Moon, the beautiful moon of balance and equilibrium we call the VENUS MOON in Antinous Moon Magic ... This is Venus Genetrix, the Mother of Rome ... Rituals and meditations tonight are best suited for questions about your mother or your "inner mother" and also about finding flexible solutions to problems. The serpentine qualities of the "Snake Goddess Moon" offer insights into how to slither around or through seemingly impervious barriers in life.

MON-TUESDAY, JULY 3rd-4th, 2017

On Tuesday Venus leaves dependable Taurus and enters flirty Gemini. If you have been thinking about spreading your wings and diversifying your love life, the coming weeks is the time to do it. Gemini Venus is also a good time to diversify money matters. Love and money will be "up in the air" for the next month, so be flexible and in order to take advantage of the airy opportunities.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 5th, 2017

On Wednesday get ready for surprise revelations when Mercury forms a 90-degree right angle to Uranus. Mercury square Uranus means that you can expect to hear the unexpected ... wholly surprising and even shocking things will bombard your ears. On the global level, these configurations produce highly volatile statements. On the personal level, you can expect amazing disclosures.

THURSDAY, JULY 6th, 2017

On Thursday big cosmic changes are in store when, first of all, Mercury leaves Cancer, the one Sign where Mercury feels really bored. Starting now, Mercury fast-forwards through fiery Leo in just two weeks, exiting on July 26th. This will be an exciting two weeks of tweeting, chatting, messaging, emailing, blogging and vlogging for sure. Also on this thrilling Thursday, a Sun trine Neptune aspect enhances your ability to lift the veil between the worlds and to perceive spirits in other realms. You can also receive messages from the beyond and communicate more effectively with your higher self and with spirit guides during this profoundly spiritual configurations. Because Neptune is retrograde (going "backwards" as seen from Earth) you can delve into past-life incarnations. Meanwhile, the Sun is in a 90-degree right angle to Jupiter. These configurations provide great opportunities for success but also some tests of character. You can be very fortunate but also have to make your own luck. Lucky breaks and popularity can lead to an inflated ego and other excesses in life. For example, you may have a tendency to over-estimate your own abilities or resources. This could lead to a scattering of energy or wasting money on unnecessary luxuries. There may also be a tendency to accumulate possessions such as collections of a special thing, coins, figurines etc. It may be that your beliefs and morals become over the top and cause difficulties with others. Excessive behaviors are most problematic because these are more likely to affect your close relationships. Overconfidence can get in the way of making lasting friendships. The key to dealing with the excessive nature of Jupiter is moderation. You can still maintain a healthy ego but you won’t want to let excess and pride damage your standing in the world. Jupiter is testing your ego. Any arrogance or boastfulness may actually be covering for a wounded ego, or a lack of self-confidence. Yes, you do wish to be of importance, to be famous or wealthy and to receive the praise and ovation you deserve. They key to dealing with this aspect, apart from moderation, is to not get ahead of yourself. Focus your energy on doing the groundwork, the daily grind needed to perfect your special gifts.

FRIDAY, JULY 7th, 2017

On Friday expect a message from someone special when we enjoy a Mercury sextile Venus aspect which enhances communicative skills. You may get a message from a business partner or from a friend or lover who ignites interests that quicken your pulse just in time for the weekend.

SAT-SUNDAY, JULY 8th-9th, 2017

This weekend we come to the Capricorn Full Moon, which is the lunar cycle we call the TOWER MOON in memory of the observatory tower which Emperor Hadrian built at his Villa to study the stars. This is the moon for reaching for the stars ... seeking job promotions ... stretching on tiptoes to grasp something previously unattainable.

SNEAK PREVIEW OF NEXT WEEK:

Another exciting week lies ahead between July 10th and 16th when we come to the Aries Third Quarter Moon, which is the lunar phase of the determined warrior we call the TRIBUNE MOON in Antinous Moon Magic ... This lunar phase is particularly powerful this year because it occurs precisely when the Mercury is in an impulsive sextile aspect with Uranus and love goddess Venus is in a dreamy trine with Neptune. If you are someone lacking in self-assertiveness, then ANTINOUS THE MOON GOD is sending assertiveness your way on his moonbeams tonight ... so that you can forge ahead in with determination and vigor ... The Tribune Moon is about confronting your fears ... above all, your fear of baring your true self to others. It is about turning your weaknesses into your strengths. It is about transforming destructive energies into constructive ones. It is about finding ... and fulfilling ... your destiny ... Meditations and rituals this night are best suited for finding ways to assert your will constructively ... for the benefit of yourself and for others ... More details next time ....


Friday, June 23, 2017

THIS NEW MOON RITUAL WORKS WONDERS
By Our Crystal Meditation Advisor Martin Campbell



TONIGHT is the Cancer New Moon, the Adonis Moon of Antinous honouring our spouses, partners and significant others.


From the start, Antinous has always been identified with Adonis, as with the breath-taking Farnese statue of Antinous/Adonis above.


If you want to meditate with his image in mind or that of a loved one or lover then I would recommend holding some Onyx.

Typically black (although can be found in other colours) Onyx is a powerful stone which can help you to recognize and integrate the dualities we often have within us such as homotheosis - man = god, god = man. 

This will lead to better self-control. Onyx can also improve stamina..!

Every New Moon my love Soman and I write down our intentions and aspirations for the coming moon phase. 

We stand under the moon and read an incantation over them asking for the blessing of the goddess.

We then place them under the pillows we sleep on until the next Full Moon ... in two weeks' time.

Then we read an incantation of thanks and offering while burning the intentions in a cauldron. I then soak the ashes in water and sprinkle them around the base of our roses. 

Our intentions almost always come true and our roses are magnificent. Last year, one orange rose was still flowering in mid November!

So tonight might be a very good night to start such a cycle for yourselves folks!

Love and Moon Light
MARTIN 

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

THE CANCER NEW MOON
THE ADONIS MOON OF ANTINOUS



TONIGHT's Cancer New Moon is the moon of romantic renewal which we call the ADONIS MOON in Antinous Moon Magic ... the lunar phase which enhances partnerships.

Each lunar phase represents a Divine Spirit or Archetype. The Spirit of the Adonis Moon is the Perfect Lover.

This is the Spirit which dwells in each gay heart. It is the ultimate friend, partner, soul mate and lover.

This Spirit embodies the perfection of a gay relationship, the perfect friend, the perfect companion.

This Spirit defies all conventions and may not conform to societal formats for partnership, but it nonetheless constitutes the perfect partner.

To paraphrase a classic Grace Jones song, this  Spirit may not be perfect, but this spirit is perfect for you.

Throughout history, Antinous has always been identified with Adonis, the god of beauty and desire, and a central figure in various mystery religions. The statue shown here is of Antinous in his guise as Adonis.

Adonis is one of the most complex figures in classical times. He has had multiple roles, and there has been much scholarship over the centuries concerning his meaning and purpose in Greek religious beliefs. He is an annually-renewed, ever-youthful vegetation god, a life-death-rebirth deity whose nature is tied to the calendar.

His name is often applied in modern times to handsome youths, of whom he is the archetype. Adonis is often referred to as the mortal god of Beauty.


Rituals and meditations tonight are best suited for focusing on your partner ... or how to find a partner ...  or simply a good night for being with your partner.

Friday, June 16, 2017

ORANGE CALCITE FOR THE LOTUS MOON
By Our Crystal Meditation Advisor Martin Campbell



OUR astrology adviser Hernestus has prompted me that today's moon phase is the Pisces Third Quarter - the Antinous Lotus Moon.

Hernestus describes this moon as being about wish-fulfilment through determined faith.

Now crystals are mostly there to help you to focus on your needs in the moment rather than helping you to achieve anything ahead of time.

However there are some crystals which are attuned to the future so will attune you to it too.

I recommend that you write down your wishes/desires and hold them as you meditate (with or without crystals).

Focus your attention through the paper and crystal/s and back into your heart.

I recommend using:

Orange Calcite - These pretty stones (top photo) remove fear and balance the emotion so that you are open and ready for positives to enter your life. 

Apatite - These are the best crystals to use for manifesting your desires. They are both attuned to the future and past lives so you can consider the spectrum of your lives and set out your wishes for your future and your future selves. They are typically blue or yellow. Choose the blue for manifesting your desires.

Love and Crystalline Light,
MARTIN

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

THE LOTUS MOON OF ANTINOUS



THE LOTUS MOON is what we call the PISCES THIRD QUARTER MOON which occurs at this time of year around the time when we celebrate the rise of the STAR OF ANTINOUS.

Tonight's LOTUS MOON means the next week will be a time of joyous anticipation of something big which is just beyond the horizon.


In ANTINOUS MOON MAGIC each phase of the Moon represents a Divine Spirit or Archetype. The Spirit of the LOTUS MOON is the Spirit of Yearning. It is the Spirit which lives in the hearts of people who sit and wait by the phone for their lover to call, or who look out the window in anticipation of the arrival of their beloved. It is the Spirit of the child who cannot sleep on Christmas Eve. 

It is perhaps the most spiritual of all the Lunar Phase Spirits because it knows that its wait will not be in vain. It is waiting for something it knows must and will come to pass.

It is what the Portuguese call "SAUDADE," a bitter-sweet longing for someone or something just out of reach. Waiting for your ship to come in — and knowing it WILL come in. It is the anticipation of waiting at an airport arrivals lounge for a special friend you have met online in a chat room, but never met in person — the inexpressible joy/anxiety of knowing something big is about to happen. 

This is a very special emotion that every gay knows how to savor. It is like putting off unwrapping the birthday present from your sweetheart as long as possible, just so you can savor the anticipation a bit longer. 
  
This is the SACRED ANTINOUS LOTUS which rises from the surface of the Nile and which slowly opens its blossoms during the day — yearning for sunlight — and closes its petals again at night in anticipation of the next sunrise.

The key to understanding the LOTUS MOON in your life, and working with it in ANTINOUS MOON MAGIC, is that it represents a yearning for something you are certain will most definitely occur. It is not an illusion. You are not waiting in vain. Like waiting for the lotus to open its petals again, you know it will happen and you yearn for it to do so.


ANTINOUS LOTUS MOON SPELL

TO OBTAIN YOUR HEART'S DESIRE


You Will Require: A candle of the color symbolizing your heart's desire.



Choose a pink candle for love, sex and passion; red/orange for energy; a Nile green candle for health; gold/yellow for confidence, attraction or persuasion; turquoise for serenity, vision dreams, clairvoyance; lapis-lazuli blue for success, luck; a white candle for purification and protection from enemies.

Light the candle during the LOTUS MOON phase tonight or tomorrow, depending on your local time zone. The "CURRENT MOON" box in the right-hand column on this page is calibrated to your local time. When it displays "Third Quarter" and shows the left-hand half of the moon's face illuminated while the right-hand half is dark — then you can light your candle and concentrate on your wish, believing wholeheartedly that it WILL come to pass.

Call out to ANTINOUS THE GAY GOD to see into your heart to fulfill the wish that resides there. Continue meditating on the flame until the candle burns about halfway down, or until your heart tells you to extinguish the flame.

Re-light the candle on succeeding evenings until the Gemini New Moon seven nights later — which is the MERCURY MOON of wish fulfillment. Don't worry if the candle burns all the way down prior to the New Moon. It means your wish has been heard. Remember ALWAYS to follow your gay spiritual heart. Do that, and the Archetype Spirit of the LOTUS MOON ensures that your yearning will not be in vain.

Thursday, June 15, 2017

ASTRO FORECAST: JUNE 15th—25th, 2017

Antinous Astrology Forecast

JUNE 15th to 25th, 2017


THURSDAY, June 15th, 2017

On Thursday obstacles may suddenly arise out of no where when Saturn makes its annual 180-degree opposition aspect to the Sun. This is a time for about two days every year when you are forced to stop and take stock of what progress you have made so far this year and to recalibrate and possibly change your course for the rest of the year. It can also be a weekend when you literally find yourself stuck in traffic. So plan accordingly.

FRIDAY, June 16th, 2017

On Friday two big events occur. First, Neptune turns Retrograde and begins retracing its steps through dreamy Pisces from now until November 22nd. Retrograde Neptune in intuitive Pisces means there will be an atmosphere of nostalgia and yearning for a return to the "good old days" — which were maybe not all that good to start with. Nostalgia reigns during Retrograde Neptune in Pisces! On the negative side, Retrograde Neptune in Pisces causes addictive behaviour to resurface. But on the positive side, Retrograde Neptune shines a spotlight on the arts and spirituality. Don't be surprised when recurring dreams revisit you in coming weeks and months. ANTINOUS THE MOON GOD is using Retrograde Neptune to remind you of unfinished dream work. This is your chance to practice Dreamscaping ... consciously manipulating your dreams. You are the dreamer. You can do anything you want to do in your dreams.

Also on Friday, we come to the Pisces Third Quarter Moon, which is what we call the THE LOTUS MOON in Antinous Moon Magic. The LOTUS MOON means the weekend will be a time of joyous anticipation of something big which is just beyond the horizon. It is perhaps the most spiritual of all the Lunar Phase Spirits because it knows that its wait will not be in vain. It is waiting for something it knows must and will come to pass. It is a perfect night for casting the Antinous Moon Magic "Lotus Moon Spell" to obtain your heart's desire.

SATURDAY, June 17th, 2017

On Saturday luck smiles on you when the convivial Gemini Sun forms a fortuitous sextile aspect with winner-takes-all Aries Uranus. Your mind will be brimming with creative ideas and new solutions for stubborn old problems.

SUNDAY, June 18th, 2017

On Sunday Mercury-opposite-Saturn brings serious thinking and conversation, but also negativity and sadness. Poor self-esteem can lead to communication difficulties and isolation.There is the possibility of some bad news or very challenging situations arising, especially if you have been neglectful in some way earlier. However, it is likely that you will be seeing the worst in every situation. This is not a day for making important decisions, especially about relationships. Also avoid signing contracts or making big investments. You may have a critical eye can are liable to make mistakes.

MONDAY, June 19th, 2017

On Monday is a great time to take in an art exhibit ... or create art yourself ... when Taurus Venus is in a creative sextile with Retrograde Pisces Neptune. Trust your intuition on all matters of money and love. And when you go out this week, you can expect old-fashioned romance because Retrograde Pisces Neptune loves nostalgia.

TUESDAY, June 20th, 2017

On Tuesday you may want to break loose and go off alone on some impromptu adventure when Mercury forms a sextile aspect with Uranus. If you are stuck at home with family or people you would rather avoid, this can create intolerable tensions and the desire to walk out and jump in the car and speed away. But if you have the week to yourself, this creates the perfect atmosphere for doing something new and different without anyone holding you back.

WEDNESDAY, June 21st, 2017

On Wednesday the Solstice occurs at just about 3:33 a.m. British time — beginning a day of revelry for the throngs at Stonehenge. This is also a great day as far as communications are concerned when the Cancer Sun aligns with Mercury in perfect conjunction. This is the best day of the year to make deals and sign agreements. For those of you in the Northern Hemisphere this is the Summer Solstice and the days start getting shorter. For those of you in the Southern Hemisphere this is the Winter Solstice and spring will soon be on the way.

THURSDAY, June 22nd, 2017

On Thursday you will begin to feel all emotional now that both the Sun and Mercury are in Cancer. In particular, Mercury has left its home base of Gemini and entered emotion-oriented Cancer, so that your Conscious Mind will find itself engulfed in emotions during its brief visit of only two weeks to Cancer. This is the time to give voice to your emotions.

FRI-SATURDAY, June 23rd/24th, 2017

Overnight Friday-Saturday things get really romantic when Venus and Pluto bring good fortune to long-term relationships by means of a gentle trine aspect which cements relationships. In addition, we come to the CANCER NEW MOON. In ANTINOUS MOON MAGIC we call this the ADONIS MOON ... the lunar phase which enhances relationships ... Antinous has always been identified with Adonis, the god of beauty and desire, and a central figure in various mystery religions ... Adonis is the divine ideal lover ... Rituals and meditations tonight are best suited for focusing on your lover ... or how to find a lover ... or simply a good night for being with your lover.

SUNDAY, June 25th, 2017

On Sunday Mars gets all crabby and antagonistic when the war god is in a square-off against exaggeration-prone Jupiter. You might even feel a bit crab-like yourself. With Mars in Cancer, we are emotional, easily offended and defensive. Mars in Cancer can be passive-aggressive and manipulative and unforgiving! Jupiter intensifies these energies to the max.

SNEAK PREVIEW OF NEXT WEEK:

Another exciting week lies ahead between June 26th and July 2nd when we come to the Libra First Quarter Moon, the beautiful moon of balance and equilibrium we call the VENUS MOON in Antinous Moon Magic ... This is Venus Genetrix, the Mother of Rome ... Rituals and meditations tonight are best suited for questions about your mother or your "inner mother" and also about finding flexible solutions to problems. The serpentine qualities of the "Snake Goddess Moon" offer insights into how to slither around or through seemingly impervious barriers in life ... More details next time ....


Sunday, June 11, 2017

THE RISE OF THE STAR OF ANTINOUS


ON JUNE 11th, the Religion of Antinous celebrates the Rise of the Star of Antinous.  This is the date in our Liturgical Calendar when the Constellation of Antinous begins to rise over the horizon at sunset. It is visible on the eastern horizon along the banks of the Milky Way.

Wherever you live on Earth, you can see the Constellation of Antinous on starry nights from mid-June through late October when, in synchronicity with the Death of Antinous in late October, the Star of Antinous descends below the western horizon in the glare of the setting sun.
 

The Constellation of Antinous is no longer recognized by astronomers (just as Pluto has been demoted to the rank of "dwarf planet"). But it is still visible from any point on Earth nestled between Sagittarius and Capricorn and in the talons of Aquila (the Eagle Constellation) representing the Imperial Eagle which carried Antinous to lofty heights.

The most visible identifiers are the three bright stars of Aquila — Altair at the crown of his head, Tarazad, and Alshain. Alshain is derived from Arabic for "Two Friends" which astrologers have cited as a hint as to how to interpret the Sign of Antinous.

The Star of Antinous is however difficult to see. Most people cannot see it at all. You won't find it on any star chart. Like the Star of Bethlehem, it is a mystery and a conundrum about which many theories have been written.

And even if you could see it, the light which reaches your eyes would have left the star thousands of years ago — perhaps about the time that Emperor Hadrian discovered the star.

The simple truth of the matter — and the most beautiful facet of all — is the fact that Hadrian discovered the Star of Antinous with his own tear-filled eyes as he looked skyward in grief after the death of his beloved Antinous. Distraught and weeping, the emperor stood under the canopy of the star-studded heavens and looked up the River Nile towards the spot where his Beloved Boy had died. And he saw a new star which he recognized as a celestial sign that the gods had taken Antinous to be one of them.


You have to realize that Hadrian was a keen astronomer/astrologer himself. He knew the heavens like the back of his hand and he was so adept at casting horoscopes that it was said he had determined the exact hour of his death. He built an observatory at his sumptious villa outside Rome. And the tour of Egypt had brought him into contact with the finest Egyptian magician/priests, one of whom taught him how to cast a binding spell which could give him dream-visions and could also cause someone to fall hopelessly in love with him or — depending on how it was cast — even cause that person to die in agony.

Hadrian was that sort of control freak. Despite the fact that he was the mightiest man on Earth who could send a man to death on a whim (and did so, on occasion), he also wanted control over the future. And he wanted to be able to force someone to love him and never, never leave him.

Much has been theorized about those fateful final days leading up to the death and deification of Antinous and Hadrian's discovery of the STAR OF ANTINOUS.

Yes, much has been written about these events and about Hadrian's obsession with magic and astrology and soothsayers. One of the more fanciful versions was published in a novel in the mid-1950s by the German author Ernst Sommer. Entitled simply Antinous, the novel suggests Antinous sacrificed his own life to save his beloved emperor during the imperial tour of Egypt in the year 130 AD.


The dramatic climax of the plot has Hadrian lying in a villa in Hermopolis, feverish and at death's door after having been bitten by a mosquito. The emperor writhes in bed, calling out Antinous's name. The Empress Sabina and heir-apparent Lucius, jealous but also fearful that the presence of Antinous might further agitate the emperor, issue orders that the boy be kept away from the emperor.

After several daring attempts to sneak into the villa, Antinous is finally put under house arrest aboard an imperial vessel anchored a few miles upstream near the fallen-down Temple of Bes (the future site of the Sacred City of Antinoopolis). Lucius has ordered that he be put in irons to prevent him from sneaking off to visit Hadrian. But the guards cannot bring themselves to place the beauteous boy in irons, in defiance of Lucius's orders. Instead, they merely confine him to his quarters below deck with a single porthole overlooking the nighttime waters of the Nile.

Sensing that the emperor is dying, Antinous realizes his love for Hadrian is boundless and that nothing can keep them apart. Thinking back to his discussions about life and death with Jewish Rabbis, Christian clerics and Egyptian priests of Osiris, he realizes that the day has come. The hour has arrived. It is time to surrender everything he has — in a pure act of love that will transform everything.

He opens the porthole hatch and sees an unusually bright star which seems to beckon. He steps out of his clothes and leaves them (his last earthly possessions) lying in a heap on the floor. He climbs deftly out the porthole and slips quietly into the water.

At the same moment, Hadrian breathes his last breath, to the horror of Sabina and Lucius and the others who are gathered at his bedside. In a state now beyond physical life, Hadrian opens his eyes to see Anubis standing before him with outstretched hands, lifting him out of bed and guiding him away down many dark corridors. At last, Hadrian is taken through a massive portal and into a chamber where Thoth is waiting beside scales placed before Osiris.

Thoth begins the Weighing of the Heart ceremony as Osiris asks who this person is who seeks admittance to his realm. In the midst of the solemn proceedings there is a loud banging at the portal and Anubis announces that someone has arrived to offer his own heart in exchange for the emperor's heart, so that Hadrian might live and walk the earth again. That person is standing unseen just outside the portal. After brief discussion, the Egyptian deities acknowledge that the Law of Maat specifically envisions such an exchange and that, indeed, it is the most sacred and powerful of covenants — surrendering one's own heart on the Scales of Truth for that of a loved one. Such love cannot be denied. The offer cannot be denied.

Genesthoi — So Be It Done!

Back at the death bed in the Hermopolis villa, Hadrian gasps suddenly and his eyelids fly open, to the amazement of everyone who thought he had just expired. Sensing what has happened, he speaks hoarsely of a vivid dream involving deities. He looks around and demands to know where Antinous is.

"Where is he? What have you done with him? I know he would be here at my side if he were physically able. Bring him to me at once!"




But as Sabina and Lucius stammer excuses, and before the runners can summon Antinous, a boat crewman bursts into the room with the news that Antinous is missing and presumed to have drowned in the Nile.

Hadrian suffers a relapse, but the Egyptian magic is well done. So he cannot die this time. As the search for Antinous continues, with hope waning each day, Hadrian retreats to the rooftop observatory of the villa in Hermopolis which has been placed at his disposal by a wealthy Hermopolite. The emperor stares into the heavens night after night, refusing to give up hope that Antinous might yet be alive, perhaps dazed and confused and lost somewhere along the river.

Then one night he looks into the heavens and sees the proof that he has been looking for since the disappearance of Antinous. He summons the empress and Lucius and the entire court and also calls for the chief astrologer of the Temple of Thoth in Hermopolis to come quickly.

He informs them that a new star has appeared in the heavens and that it is a celestial sign that Antinous has left this earthly existence to ascend to the pantheon of the gods. He has surrendered everything on behalf of his beloved emperor, just as he had always said he would. Everyone thinks Hadrian has suffered another relapse and is delusional with fever. But the astronomer arrives and swiftly confirms that the sharp-eyed emperor has indeed discovered an uncharted star.

As Hadrian leaves to issue orders for the deification of Antinous, construction of the city at the spot where he drowned and erection of temples throughout the world, the astronomer remains behind in the rooftop observatory with the wealthy owner of the house. Where precisely is this new star, the owner asks. "I know quite a bit about the stars for an amateur, but I can't for the life of me see anything at the spot in the heavens where Caesar was pointing just a while ago."

The astronomer says that the new star is definitely there and that astronomers throughout the world will confirm its existence and it will be recorded duly in all the star charts.

"Yes, but can't you point it out to me?" the wealthy man pleas. "I'm straining my eys looking, but I just can't see anything."

The astronomer answers, "And that is why you will never be a good astronomer. You scan the heavens with your eyes, but not with your heart."

So Hadrian looked into the nighttime skies and discovered a new star to point the way to that new religion. As a scholar and man of science he was able to see it with his own two eyes. Perhaps it was a super-nova which flared and then went out — who knows? He saw it and his court astronomers confirmed it and the Constellation of Antinous was recorded in the star charts for 19 centuries to come.

But more importantly, Hadrian discovered the Star of Antinous shining in his heart. The Death of Antinous showed him a way to make his vision of the perfect religion a reality on Earth. It was the Light he was seeking. It was the Light of Antinous.

So when you look up into the nighttime skies tonight in search of the Star of Antinous, don't be surprised if you can't find it with your physical eyes. You can't find it in physical space, which is why Flamen Antinoalis Antonius Subia calls it the Dark Star of Antinous. Look inside your heart and you will find it shining there with all the beauty of a dream of perfection ....

Lumen Antinoi Adiuva Nos!

(Light of Antinous, Sustain Us!)


Thursday, June 8, 2017

GOLDEN CITRINE
FOR THE DENARIUS MOON

By Our Crystal Meditation Advisor Martin Campbell


OUR astrology advisor Hernestus has reminded me that today's moon is the Antinous Denarius Moon (Sagittarius Full Moon).

With its focus on finding wealth in your pocket, life, experience, health and people, I would recommend that you meditate using the following crystals:

Aventurine - These beautiful stones are typically pale blue but can be found in other colours/colors. They have many attributes but, for this full moon, the key aspect is that they are very positive stones for prosperity. They also bring mental clarity to help you achieve your prosperity.

Citrine - These beautiful yellow/gold crystals have been well known for centuries as stones of abundance. They help you achieve the wealth you seek in any aspect of your life. A joyful crystal, Citrine also helps you to share your wealth thus bringing other aspects of wealth to you such as the trust, love and friendship of those you help but also building an abundant respect and love of yourself for doing so.

Place a Citrine in the left corner of every room in your home and allow it/ trust it to bring wealth/abundance into your life.

In Light and Life,
MARTIN 

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

THE SAGITTARIUS FULL MOON
THE DENARIUS MOON OF ANTINOUS



TONIGHT's Sagittarius Full Moon is the Lunar Phase which we call the DENARIUS MOON in Antinous Moon Magic.

This the classic "Money Moon" of ancient lore. This is the best time to fulfill dreams for achieving the riches you have always sought ... and remember that "riches" are not counted in terms of money, but in terms of the wealth of love and warmth you give to others.

The Sagittarius Full Moon is the "lucky" moon of jovial excess and exuberant spending.

Each Lunar Phase represents a Divine Spirit or Archetype. The Spirit of the Denarius Moon is the Spirit of Wealth and Abundance. It is the embodiment of largesse and of all material and spiritual riches. It is the Spirit of Richness in all its many meanings.

It is symbolized by a Roman coin bearing the profile of Antinous. In ancient times, Antinous coin/medallions were prized by his worshipers as a sort of portable Sacred Token or Pocket Shrine.

In ancient times many followers of the Blessed Youth felt it was necessary to have a tangible representation of Antinous with them at all times for protection and for blessings.

The rich had small, light-weight traveling busts or bronzes made to accompany them on their journeys. Poor people made do with more crudely made representations, such as coins and figurines and medals made of lead, clay and other base materials.

People of modest means who were lucky enough to get their hands on one of his commemorative coins would carry it with them for protection, often even wearing them.

Many were pierced by holes and hung from the neck as talismans: Antinous' image offering protection against evil, sickness and death. Other such medallions were mounted in frames to adorn household altars, and others were buried with the dead to invoke the god's aid on the perilous journey into the unknown.


Meditations and rituals tonight are best suited for delving into matters concerning material wealth, as you might expect. But on a far more sublime level, this is an ideal night for delving into the true treasures in your life ... the things you value most.

Saturday, June 3, 2017

ASTRO FORECAST: JUNE 1st—18th, 2017

Antinous Astrology Forecast

JUNE 1st to 18th, 2017


THURSDAY, June 1st, 2017

On Thursday social-minded Taurus Venus forms a productive trine aspect with Sagittarius Saturn. Venus trine Saturn helps you perceive whom you can trust for the long run.

FRIDAY, June 2nd, 2017

On Friday we come to the Virgo First Quarter Moon. This is the Lunar Phase we call the MOON OF MELANCHOLY ... but don't worry ... it can be your "lucky" moon ... In English-speaking countries, "Melancholy" is almost a dirty word. Puritan upbringing has conditioned us to grin and bear it, to adopt a stiff-upper-lip attitude ... Other cultures are not so uptight about acknowledging this feeling of sadness. They realize it is a necessary part of life. It is what the French call "larmoyant" — a lovely word which suggests there is great beauty in sadness ... For example, crying at the movies is very beautiful and cleansing for the soul ... it is cathartic and healthy ... Meditations and rituals on this night are best suited for identifying the source of sadness in your life. If you find the source of sadness in your life, then this Lunar Phase provides you with the energy to effect changes which will move you out of melancholy into the next lunar phase.

SATURDAY, June 3rd, 2017

On Saturday Venus aligns with Uranus even as the Sun is in a trine aspect to Jupiter which means this may be your lucky day when Mr. Right steps into your life. Anything is possible in love and money today: a hot new love affair, a lucrative business deal or a sudden financial gain.

SUNDAY, June 4th, 2017

On Sunday Mars enters Cancer, where the war god feels slightly uncomfortable and tends to pout. Whereas Gemini Mars was all about asserting yourself through action, Cancer Mars is all about asserting your emotions. Instead of engaging in intellectual exchange of opinions, we find ourselves taking remarks the wrong way and snapping at others like the Cancer crab. Mars remains in Cancer until 5th September, when it will enter duty-obsessed Virgo.

MON-TUESDAY, June 5th-6th, 2017

Overnight Monday-Tuesday Venus enters the earthy and sensual realm of Taurus, The flirting of the past few weeks Venus spent in Aries is now over. Taurus Venus loves romantic cuddling with good food, good wine, flowers, candles and soft music. Venus in Taurus brings the need for reliability, steadfastness and loyalty. Having a partner whom you can lean on and rely on when the going gets tough is high on the priority list.

WED-THURSDAY, June 7th-8th, 2017

Overnight Wednesday-Thursday mental clarity shines bright and clear once again when Mercury leaves plodding Taurus and sweeps into Gemini — Mercury's astrological home sign. This shift dramatically improves communications for the next three weeks. And since Mercury also watches over commerce, the coming weeks will also be an ideal time for financial and career decisions.

FRI-SUNDAY, June 9th-11th, 2017

This weekend is special when Venus trine Mars when Venus and Mars form a powerful sextile configuration. This magical Venus-sextile-Mars moment occurs only twice a year. It is possible now to take a balanced approach to conflict, problems and projects that require effort. This can combine both a gentle touch and firm action, sensitivity and forcefulness. Negotiation and interaction with others could be aggressive and determined now, but also balanced with sensitivity and style. Any expressions of anger, frustration or discontent are more likely to be tempered with fairness, moderation and composure. On the spiritual level, you are able to balance the masculine and feminine energies of your soul to create a beautiful whole. It all starts off on Friday when we come to the SAGITTARIUS FULL MOON which we call the DENARIUS MOON because it focuses its light on treasures in your life. This Full Moon is the best time of the year to use ANTINOUS MOON MAGIC to open your heart to ancestral spirits, guardians, spirit guides or past-life soul mates. They have a "treasure" of experience which they will lovingly impart to you.

MON-TUESDAY, June 12-13, 2017

Overnight Monday-Tuesday Mercury forms a fortuitous trine aspect with lucky Jupiter. Even if you usually never play the lottery, you might want to consider buying a lotto ticket for this week.

WEDNESDAY, June 14th, 2017

On Wednesday avoid making any sort of contractual agreement when a Mercury-square-Neptune aspect creates an epidemic of misunderstandings and subterfuge. You may think you are absolutely certain about a situation or a relationship ... then suddenly discover you have been led astray. Whether intentionally or unintentionally is unimportant. The result is that you feel cheated and used.

THURSDAY, June 15th, 2017

On Thursday obstacles may suddenly arise out of no where when Saturn makes its annual 180-degree opposition aspect to the Sun. This is a time for about two days every year when you are forced to stop and take stock of what progress you have made so far this year and to recalibrate and possibly change your course for the rest of the year. It can also be a weekend when you literally find yourself stuck in traffic. So plan accordingly.

FRIDAY, June 16th, 2017

On Friday two big events occur. First, Neptune turns Retrograde and begins retracing its steps through dreamy Pisces from now until November 22nd. Retrograde Neptune in intuitive Pisces means there will be an atmosphere of nostalgia and yearning for a return to the "good old days" — which were maybe not all that good to start with. Nostalgia reigns during Retrograde Neptune in Pisces! On the negative side, Retrograde Neptune in Pisces causes addictive behaviour to resurface. But on the positive side, Retrograde Neptune shines a spotlight on the arts and spirituality. Don't be surprised when recurring dreams revisit you in coming weeks and months. ANTINOUS THE MOON GOD is using Retrograde Neptune to remind you of unfinished dream work. This is your chance to practice Dreamscaping ... consciously manipulating your dreams. You are the dreamer. You can do anything you want to do in your dreams.

Also on Friday, we come to the Pisces Third Quarter Moon, which is what we call the THE LOTUS MOON in Antinous Moon Magic. The LOTUS MOON means the weekend will be a time of joyous anticipation of something big which is just beyond the horizon. It is perhaps the most spiritual of all the Lunar Phase Spirits because it knows that its wait will not be in vain. It is waiting for something it knows must and will come to pass. It is a perfect night for casting the Antinous Moon Magic "Lotus Moon Spell" to obtain your heart's desire.

SATURDAY, June 17th, 2017

On Saturday luck smiles on you when the convivial Gemini Sun forms a fortuitous sextile aspect with winner-takes-all Aries Uranus. Your mind will be brimming with creative ideas and new solutions for stubborn old problems.

SUNDAY, June 18th, 2017

On Sunday Mercury-opposite-Saturn brings serious thinking and conversation, but also negativity and sadness. Poor self-esteem can lead to communication difficulties and isolation.There is the possibility of some bad news or very challenging situations arising, especially if you have been neglectful in some way earlier. However, it is likely that you will be seeing the worst in every situation. This is not a day for making important decisions, especially about relationships. Also avoid signing contracts or making big investments. You may have a critical eye can are liable to make mistakes.

SNEAK PREVIEW OF NEXT WEEK:

Another exciting week lies ahead between June 19th and 25th when when the gentle and romantic CANCER NEW MOON soothes the tensions of recent days and weeks. In ANTINOUS MOON MAGIC we call this the ADONIS MOON ... the lunar phase which enhances relationships ... Antinous has always been identified with Adonis, the god of beauty and desire, and a central figure in various mystery religions ... Adonis is the divine ideal lover ... Rituals and meditations tonight are best suited for focusing on your lover ... or how to find a lover ... or simply a good night for being with your lover ... More details next time ....


Thursday, June 1, 2017

RED RUBIES FOR THE MELANCHOLY MOON
By Our Crystal Meditation Advisor Martin Campbell



PUT on your ruby slippers because our astrological expert Hernestus tells me that this moon phase is the Moon of Melancholy. Don't despair though, sadness can be lessened in many ways ... and red rubies help. 

This Moon will help you to identify your sadness and find solutions to it. Crystal mediation will definitely help you to achieve this.

We all experience sadness even if it is over something trivial. Don't be afraid to embrace the emotion. Each emotion is the gate to a different emotion. 

If you constantly block out your sadness how can you ever expect to open the door to happiness? Observe your sadness and understand it. 

I suggest using any of the following crystals to assist and guide you as you meditate on your sadness:

Red Jasper - these stones will help you see problems before they affect you too directly. They also help you to be insightful about your current situation/s.

Sodalite - these dark blue stones are sometimes flecked with white and have a strong intensity. They will help release you from the emotional conditioning that you have imposed upon yourself (I am too fat, too skinny, too old, too ugly etc. etc.). They will help to bring you to the objective truth about yourself and will help you to communicate that truth to yourself and others.

Ruby - these much prized crystals (top photo) can help you to reach a positive and creative state of mind. It will protect you during times of conflict or dispute.

Love and Light
MARTIN

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

WHY ANTINOUS LOOKS SO SAD
ON SUCH A 'LUCKY' DAY



TONIGHT's Virgo First Quarter Moon is the Lunar Phase we call the MOON OF MELANCHOLY ... but don't worry ... it can be your "lucky" moon.

Each phase of the Moon represents a Divine Spirit or Archetype in ANTINOUS MOON MAGIC. The Spirit of the Moon of Melancholy is the Spirit of Despondency and Despair. It is the worrier, the pouter, the Spirit which feels guilty and inadequate.

It is the negative side of Virgo, not the caring and dutiful side, but rather the side which frets and mopes and feels inadequate for the task at hand. It is sadness for the sake of sadness, without cause. It is the Spirit of Chronic Depression.

In English-speaking countries, "Melancholy" is almost a dirty word.  Puritan upbringing has conditioned us to grin and bear it, to adopt a stiff upper lip attitude. But suppressing this feeling is as bad as wallowing in it. 

Other cultures are not so uptight about acknowledging this feeling of sadness. They realize it is a necessary part of life. It is what the French call "larmoyant"  a lovely word which rolls off your tongue so languidly. It describes a lack of joy, a vague feeling that life is not what it should be. It is Peggy Lee singing that minor-key ballad "Is That All There Is?" 

This moon signals those areas of your life where things are not going well and you have a right to sing the blues. But it also signals those moments when we wallow in self-sorrow and almost enjoy brow-beating ourselves  for no good reason.  

Don't suppress this sadness, but don't wallow in it. Instead, savor it for a moment and discern what your gay spiritual heart is trying to tell you. 

ANTINOUS THE MOON GOD uses this lunar phase to invite you to reflect on those parts of your life or your living and job environment which may be making you sad. 

You may come to the realization that the sadness you are feeling is not coming from within yourself, but rather that it is originating elsewhere — coming from someone else or from some other situation.

As you know, many gay people are highly sensitive to the emotions of others, and to the "vibes" of a location or situation. You know how you can enter a space, such as a room or a house, and you immediately sense whether it is a cheerful or a sad place. You know how the sadness of others can affect you — even at great distances.

You may be feeling sadness and then the phone rings and it is a special person who needs consolation, and you realize that the melancholy you were feeling had its origins with that person, not with yourself.

Most people ignore such "coincidences." But this sensitivity is an integral part of ANTINOUS MOON MAGIC. That is why the "Moon of Melancholy" is important. It is the best time of the year for meditation and rituals concerning sadness — in yourself and in others.

Examine your own life and see if where the source of your sadness lies.

If you find the source of sadness in your life, then this Lunar Phase provides you with the energy to effect changes which will move you out of melancholy into the next lunar phase.