2026 IS "THE YEAR OF MERCURY"

FROM an astrological viewpoint, the Year 2026 is ushering in an opportunity to enhance these areas of our lives: Mind. Communication. Intellect. Reason. Language. Intelligence.

According to a rather obscure astrological text called the "Galendarjum Oeconomicum Practicum Perpetuum," the Year 2026 is the "Year of Mercury."

The Year 2022 was the "Year of Jupiter" and 2023 it was Mars's turn to take over, then 2024 was the "Year of the Sun." That was followed by 2025 the "Year of Venus."

While political upheaval and emotional turmoil were the themes of 2024 and 2025, Mercury ushers in a year of verbal and mental gymnastics in 2026 ... remember that Mercury-Hermes is the Classical god of rogues, thieves and con-men ... as well as of commerce, communications and travel.

Of major importance during this Year of Mercury will be the three RETROGRADE MERCURY periods when Mercury appears to go "backwards" (as seen from the Earth) for about three weeks.

Here are the three Mercury Retrograde periods in 2026:

• February 26th to March 20th 2026
• June 29th to July 23rd 2026
• October 24th to November 13th 2026

Mercury is the planetary ruler of Gemini and Virgo, so if you were born under those signs, then 2026 is your year. But all of the signs benefit from Mercury's cunning and slyness during this year. Here are a few pointers:

ARIES: Be alert for new opportunities to fulfill your heart's desire. Your dreams won't wait. Mercury will help you make them a reality.

TAURUS: Get out of that comfortable rut you have been living in and wallowing in. Mercury is eager to put wings on your feet and help you to fly.

GEMINI: Mercury rules your birth sign and rules this year, so this is your year to shine. In business and in personal relationships you will make lots of new contacts.

CANCER: Look deep within your heart to see what is truly important to you to achieve this year. Mercury will give you the insight and perspective to see clearly.

LEO: It's time to devote yourself to your career, because nothing can hold you back. Mercury will shine the spotlight on you as you step onto the stage.

VIRGO: Stop fretting and be proud of your ability to bring order and discipline out of the chaos of life. Mercury will help you make sense of the chaos around you so you can focus on helping others.

LIBRA: Charm your way into the good graces of important people you can advance your projects. Mercury will giving you the articulate phraseology (lies if necessary) to sweet-talk others into doing what they should do anyway to start with.

SCORPIO: Those thorny problems which have been hampering you need to be eliminated. Mercury will give you the ingenuity to find a way around them ... or through them.

SAGITTARIUS: Go ahead and allow your imagination to be fired up by new impressions all around you. Mercury will give flight to your fantasies and turn them into realities.

CAPRICORN: How about further education? Or perhaps you want to learn another language? Mercury loves people who like to learn.

AQUARIUS: You hate sameness and you love change. Mercury is ready and eager to help you discover totally new avenues of communication and ways of thinking ... and will introduce you to lots of new people too.

PISCES: Your career has been in the doldrums too long. Starting in April you can expect a big boost. Mercury will gladly give you a boost ... but you can't be shy ... be bold!

ASTRO FORECAST: JULY 9th—19th, 2020

Antinous Astrology Forecast

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JULY 9th to 19th, 2020

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THURSDAY, JULY 9th, 2020

This week, Mercury is at right angles to Mars. Some astrologers say this is when people sharpen their swords, but we prefer to say it is when people sharpen their tongues to use as weapons! Remember that lovely line from "The Importance of Being Earnest" by Oscar Wilde (who is a Saint of Antinous, by the way): "On an occasion of this kind it becomes more than a moral duty to speak one's mind. It becomes a pleasure." This is an aspect which encourages people to say vicious and intentionally hurtful things. People are overly persnickety and bitchy and downright mean. You'll be amazed how true this is.

FRI-SATURDAY, JULY 10th-11th, 2020

This weekend, 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.

SUNDAY, JULY 12th, 2020

Aren't you tired of all the computer glitches, "lost" files, travel delays and snafus of recent weeks? Take heart! Today Mercury does an about-face and starts going forward again as seen from Earth, ending three weeks of Retrograde "backwards" travel. So you can safely message friends and co-workers a prediction that certain "lost" computer files or parcels will show up by the time they go to work tomorrow morning. Mercury going backwards creates this sort of impish mayhem with matters concerning communications, documents and money. Misplaced tickets, keys, "lost" computer files, letters and packages which vanish into postal limbo ... all are typical of Retrograde Mercury. The "lost" things turn up again as if by magic when Mercury goes Direct again. A skilled astrologer, Hadrian no doubt amazed his courtiers by accurately predicting when some "lost" document or wayward courier message would finally re-appear out of no where.

MONDAY, JULY 13th, 2020

Overnight Sunday-Monday, 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. 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.

TUES-SUNDAY, JULY 14th-19th, 2020

This week, is highly volatile because the Sun is in 180-degree opposition to Jupiter, Pluto and the Star of Antinous (See: PLUTO ALIGNS WITH THE STAR OF ANTINOUS). This causes a sense of over-reaction, over-exuberance, over-exaggeration and over-exertion in all areas. Not that that's necessarily a bad thing ... but the coming weeks will show whether you bit off more than you can handle. The good news is that both Jupiter and Pluto and Retrograde, so their mischief is understated and undercover. But the bad news is that Capricorn Jupiter and Pluto opposite the Sun means trouble for major corporations and political and religious institutions. And in your personal life, of course, this is definitely not a good week to pick a fight with your lover — not if you don't want to be locked out of the apartment all week. And for everyone: Please drive carefully and vigilantly.

SNEAK PREVIEW OF NEXT WEEK:

Another exciting week lies ahead between July 20th and 26th when 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 ... for the benefit of yourself and for others ... More details next time ....

ASTRO FORECAST: MAY 21st—31st, 2020

Antinous Astrology Forecast

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MAY 21st to 31st, 2020

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THURSDAY, MAY 21st, 2020

This week love and money are in the air when Mercury aligns in conjunction with Venus in Gemini and both form a 90-degree square aspect to foggy Pisces Neptune. On the positive side: you can trust your intuition to buy a lottery ticket. But on the negative side, you don't know when to stop and squander your hard-earned money on a bad bet ... in money and love.

FRIDAY, MAY 22nd, 2020

On Friday we come to the Gemini New Moon — a good time to set a goal for the coming four weeks. And given the presence of Gemini energy, it's an auspicious time to begin gathering the information you will need to set this mission in motion. In Antinous Moon Magic we call the Gemini New Moon the MERCURY/HERMES MOON because the mercurial and seemingly fickle energy of Gemini is in the spotlight during this New Moon period, amping up agitation and nervous energy.

SAT-SUNDAY, MAY 23rd-24th, 2020

This weekend, the Sun forms a brilliant and glowing trine aspect with Saturn which empowers you with perseverance and clear vision to make some serious long-term plans for the future.

MON-WEDNESDAY, MAY 25th-27th, 2020

This week, dreams really can come true when ambitious Mars forms a positive sextile aspect with impulsive, anything-goes Uranus. This powerful configuration throws open all the doors and windows so that a breath of fresh air comes blowing through your life on all levels ... at work and also in your interpersonal relationships. Uranus throws everything up in the air and opens new possibilities.

THURSDAY, MAY 28th, 2020

On Thursday, Mercury leaves its home base of Gemini and enters emotion-oriented Cancer, so that your Conscious Mind will find itself engulfed in emotions during an extended visit until August 5th ... unusually long owing to Mercury going Retrograde. This is the time to give voice to your emotions.

FRI-SUNDAY, MAY 29th-31st, 2020

This weekend, 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.

SNEAK PREVIEW OF NEXT WEEK:

Another exciting week lies ahead between June 1st and 7th 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 ... More details next time ....

ASTRO FORECAST: FEBRUARY 13th—23rd, 2020

Antinous Astrology Forecast

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FEBRUARY 13 to 23, 2020

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THURS-FRIDAY, FEB. 13th-14th, 2020

This week, Jupiter blesses Neptune — Jupiter-sextile-Neptune is a configuration that occurs only rarely — so this is your best chance this year for big change! Are you afraid of failure? Are you trapped in a vicious circle of fear and doubt? Remember Icarus! Right now Jupiter Sextile Neptune encourages you to take a big risk, just as Icarus did. We call this configuration the ICARUS ASPECT. Priests of Antinous say: Don't condemn Icarus for flying too high. Praise him for daring to escape the imprisoning labyrinth of darkness and despair.

SAT-SUNDAY, FEB. 15th-16th, 2020

This weekend, we come to the Scorpio Third Quarter Moon. This is the Lunar Phase in Antinous Moon Magic which we call the PERDITION MOON of coming to terms with loss and diminishment. Meditations and rituals carried out during this Lunar Phase are best suited for seeking to come to terms with loss and finding areas in your life where you may unconsciously be causing yourself loss or sadness. This Lunar Phase is NOT about giving in to loss and grief, but rather it is about moving through them to find new ways towards growth and fulfillment.

Also this weekend, you will be more determined than ever to take care of business from now through March 30th, as action-planet Mars is exalted in efficient Capricorn. If you've been putting off important duties, the guilt is unbearable now, and you'll experience renewed focus to get things done. Capricorn is ruled by Saturn, which rules time. Now you will be more aware of how precious passing moments are, and thus more likely to make a structured schedule. When you schedule your days, time expands. When you just leave it up in the air, time dissolves. Therefore, schedule everything, even — and especially — leisure time so you'll have more of it during this phase. It's also easier to get your priorities straight under this influence, as Capricorn has a tendency to get the most out of what's useful.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 17th, 2020

On Monday, Mercury does an about-face and goes "backwards" as seen from Earth until March 9th. This RETROGRADE MERCURY phase is a time of confusion in communications and commerce. About three times each year, Mercury the communications wizard turns into Mercury the fast-talking con man. This is the RETROGRADE MERCURY phase, and it lasts about three weeks. RETROGRADE MERCURY will be serving up glitches and snafus in communications, computers, transport, travel and social media. If you are buying a new mobile phone, be sure to read the fine print about hidden costs. Planning to move into a new apartment? Check the kitchen and bathroom for tell-tale signs of mold before signing the lease. Remember over the next three weeks that MERCURY wants you to play his sly game to win — not to be a whining victim. Make him proud of the way you play his game!

TUES-FRIDAY, FEB. 18th-21st, 2020

This week, it is high time to break free of chains which have bound you for far too long when Capricorn Mars forms a liberating trine aspect with Taurus 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 Earth signs, this aspect can spawn a sudden rupture or disruption of global consequences ... with long-lasting consequences. Mars in determined Capricorn says it is time to break the chains, and Uranus in bull-headed Taurus says the chains must be broken with no regard for danger or peril.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22nd, 2020

This weekend, we come to the PISCES NEW MOON. In Antinous Moon Magic this is the lunar phase we call the DOG MOON of fidelity, friendship and faithfulness. The Spirit of the Dog Moon is loving and supportive friendship. This Spirit is loving and faithful, comforting you with familiarity when you see yourself reflected in this Spirit. It is the perfect combination of comfort and stimulus to grow and provides a wonderful companion that walks with you through life, helping you define and refine who you are and who you choose to be every day.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 23rd, 2020

On Sunday, indulgent Venus squares off against excessive Jupiter. If you are planning to go to an all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast ... then you will pig out because it's easy to fall victim to temptation during this configuration. We need to be wary of overdoing it with rich food, intoxicating drinks and other "vices." It will be difficult switching gears and getting back to work. There's even a possibility we'll forget responsibilities altogether. This isn't a good time to make luxury purchases. A sports car could require costly repair, a gourmet meal may be less than satisfying or an expensive outfit may be made with inferior materials. Wait another day to splurge. Getting good value for money will be very difficult under this configuration.

On the bright side, luck smiles on you when the dreamy Pisces Sun forms a fortuitous sextile aspect with winner-takes-all Taurus Uranus. Your mind will be brimming with creative ideas and new solutions for stubborn old problems.

SNEAK PREVIEW OF NEXT WEEK:

Another exciting week lies ahead between February 24th and March 1st when we come to the Gemini First Quarter moon ... the lunar phase we call the JACKAL MOON in Antinous Moon Magic. Each Lunar Phase represents a Divine Spirit or Archetype. The Spirit of the Jackal in Antinous oracular arts is the embodiment of cunning and skill and sleight-of-hand and being slightly dodgy and sneaky but also being incredibly adept and learned in the ways of the world. The Gemini First Quarter Moon is the March moon of the Trickster, who taunts and teases, who plays tricks, who leads the soul through dark and treacherous passages ... who is more treacherous than any Underworld foe ... but whose cunning enables him to bring his charges to their goal. Meditations and rituals carried out tonight are best suited for looking beyond the the veil of lies and deceit that others (or we ourselves) throw over our eyes to prevent us from seeing clearly. This is also a very good night for finding canny and cunning solutions to difficult problems ... strategies for out-smarting those who seek to pull the wool over our eyes ... More details next time ....

ASTRO FORECAST: FEBRUARY 6th—16th, 2020

Antinous Astrology Forecast

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FEBRUARY 6th-16th, 2020

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 6th, 2020

This week, you will really want to get together with good friends when caring-sharing Venus forms an exceedingly fortuitous sextile aspect with insightful Saturn. We're talking about long-term friends, people you have known and loved the longest — or people with whom you really want to form a long-lasting friendship.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 7th, 2020

On Friday, Venus leaves dreamy and romantic Pisces and charges into hot and horny Aries. Sitting in front of your computer wistfully fantasizing about Mr. Right suddenly gives way to the urge to go out and find him ... and not stop until you have found him. Aries Venus can be overly assertive and me-firsty in relationships. But if you are congenitally shy and retiring, this means you may finally work up the audacity to stand up for yourself ... and about time, too. But move fast because Venus leaves Aries on March 5th to settle down in placid and docile Taurus, where Venus prefers the comforts of home.

SAT-SUNDAY, FEB 8th-9th, 2020

This weekend, we come to the lunar phase we call the LION HUNT MOON, the LEO FULL MOON. It is a reminder that Antinous slew a man-eating lion in Egypt. Antinous peered out into the barren wilderness with all its deep and hidden dangers. He charged forth, his bridle-reins in one hand and an adamantine-tipped spear in the other, and he faced the beast unafraid. For Antinous knew he would triumph over death. The Spirit of the Lion Hunt is the bravery of Antinous the Lion Slayer.

MON-FRIDAY, FEB. 10th-14th, 2020

This week, Jupiter blesses Neptune — Jupiter-sextile-Neptune is a configuration that occurs only rarely — so this is your best chance this year for big change! Are you afraid of failure? Are you trapped in a vicious circle of fear and doubt? Remember Icarus! Right now Jupiter Square Neptune encourages you to take a big risk, just as Icarus did. We call this configuration the ICARUS ASPECT. Priests of Antinous say: Don't condemn Icarus for flying too high. Praise him for daring to escape the imprisoning labyrinth of darkness and despair.

SAT-SUNDAY, FEB. 15th-16th, 2020

This weekend, we come to the Scorpio Third Quarter Moon. This is the Lunar Phase in Antinous Moon Magic which we call the PERDITION MOON of coming to terms with loss and diminishment. Meditations and rituals carried out during this Lunar Phase are best suited for seeking to come to terms with loss and finding areas in your life where you may unconsciously be causing yourself loss or sadness. This Lunar Phase is NOT about giving in to loss and grief, but rather it is about moving through them to find new ways towards growth and fulfillment.

Also this weekend, you will be more determined than ever to take care of business from now through March 30th, as action-planet Mars is exalted in efficient Capricorn. If you've been putting off important duties, the guilt is unbearable now, and you'll experience renewed focus to get things done. Capricorn is ruled by Saturn, which rules time. Now you will be more aware of how precious passing moments are, and thus more likely to make a structured schedule. When you schedule your days, time expands. When you just leave it up in the air, time dissolves. Therefore, schedule everything, even — and especially — leisure time so you'll have more of it during this phase. It's also easier to get your priorities straight under this influence, as Capricorn has a tendency to get the most out of what's useful.

In addition this weekend, Mercury does an about-face and goes "backwards" as seen from Earth until March 9th. This RETROGRADE MERCURY phase is a time of confusion in communications and commerce. About three times each year, Mercury the communications wizard turns into Mercury the fast-talking con man. This is the RETROGRADE MERCURY phase, and it lasts about three weeks. RETROGRADE MERCURY will be serving up glitches and snafus in communications, computers, transport, travel and social media. If you are buying a new mobile phone, be sure to read the fine print about hidden costs. Planning to move into a new apartment? Check the kitchen and bathroom for tell-tale signs of mold before signing the lease. Remember over the next three weeks that MERCURY wants you to play his sly game to win — not to be a whining victim. Make him proud of the way you play his game!

SNEAK PREVIEW OF NEXT WEEK:

Another exciting week lies ahead between February 17th and 23rd when we come to the PISCES NEW MOON. In Antinous Moon Magic this is the lunar phase we call the DOG MOON of fidelity, friendship and faithfulness. The Spirit of the Dog Moon is loving and supportive friendship. This Spirit is loving and faithful, comforting you with familiarity when you see yourself reflected in this Spirit. It is the perfect combination of comfort and stimulus to grow and provides a wonderful companion that walks with you through life, helping you define and refine who you are and who you choose to be every day ... More details next time ....

ASTRO FORECAST: NOVEMBER 7th—17th, 2019

Antinous Astrology Forecast

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NOVEMBER 7 to 17, 2019

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 7th, 2019

This promises to be one of the unluckiest weeks of the year when aggressive Mars is in a tight, 90-degree square angle to death planet Pluto, which is aligned with the star of Antinous in the sign of Capricorn. This is the textbook recipe for armed conflict, terrorist attacks and economic collapse. One the one hand, there is a powerful yearning for a dramatic new beginning. That is a good thing, in general. But on the other hand, there are ruthless people who take advantage of that yearning to push their own agendas for changing the world to fit their own selfish ends. Quite aside from global politics and economics, you will sense these tensions in your own domestic life and on the job. Remember to keep your head and strive for compromise while others lose their heads or ram their heads through the wall! More on how Capricorn Pluto and the Star of Antinous can change your life: PLUTO ALIGNS WITH THE STAR OF ANTINOUS.

FRI-SATURDAY, NOV. 8th-9th, 2019

This weekend, the Sun forms beneficent configurations with Saturn and Neptune which enable you to unblock many blocked situations. A Sun trine Neptune aspect, as well as Sun sextile Saturn and Saturn sextile Neptune aspects enhance 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.

For instance, you could seek higher understanding and meaning in your life through a guide, mentor, or spiritual person or increase your inner knowledge by means of educational processes, religion, or meditative practices during this period.

An urge to travel to far-away places (real or imaginary) may also be experienced. You may discover new perspectives on your beliefs, faith, and sense of hope.

Restoring peace and harmony in your personal life and relationships is possible now through your interest in healing your own wounds, as well as extending compassion and generosity to others.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 10th, 2019

On Sunday, Mercury sextile Pluto (which is aligned in conjunction with the Star of Antinous) facilitates negotiations with authority figures. At last, you can expect answers to some questions which have been plaguing you for the longest time. It may take a little digging, but Mercury sextile Pluto means that the answer will be found.

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 11th, 2019

On Monday a rare and spectacular cosmic event occurs when Mercury crosses the face of the Sun. Ordinarily, Mercury is above or below the solar disc, but when Mercury transits the Sun, it can be observed as a black dot moving across the face of the sun. This is not only an awesome sight, it strikes awe and foreboding into the hearts of many people, particularly because Mercury is Retrograde right now. 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.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 12th, 2019

On Tuesday, we come to the TAURUS FULL MOON. That is the lunar phase which, in Antinous Moon Magic, is called the HADRIAN's VILLA MOON. This is a way for Antinous the Gay God to help you find your spiritual home, the celestial palace you have made for yourself. This Moon is aimed at helping you focus and center your spiritual heart.

WED-SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 13th-17th, 2019

This week, conflicting energies are at work when the Sun, Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn and Pluto form a cluster of forces in just four adjacent signs. First of all, you may feel like a "noble knight" when Mars forms a sextile aspect with the Jupiter. Unfortunately, during Mars-sextile-Jupiter many people may become deluded that they are superheroes, using others as kindling to start fires — not always literally often metaphorically. Either way, it is just so they can be seen to be the hero and put it out and destroy the lives of others in the process. Beware of crusaders who urge you to take part in some sacred battle. And beware of demagogues who insist they are fighting a holy war, sacrificing the lives of many innocent men women and children in the name of war or competition for basic/personal needs, just so they look like the hero.

Second of all, Mercury wings his way to the rescue with two beneficent configurations: Mercury sextile Saturn and Mercury trine Neptune. You find exactly the right imaginative and inspirational words for that important email, post or tweet when Mercury forms a positive sextile aspect with precise Saturn. A Mercury 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 both Mercury and Neptune are retrograde (going "backwards" as seen from Earth) you can delve into past-life incarnations.

Furthermore, the Sun forms a sextile aspect with Pluto and the Star of Antinous which brings you recognition, success and amazing abilities to make your wishes come true.

And finally, love and money are in the air when Venus forms a 90-degree square aspect to foggy Neptune. On the positive side: you can trust your intuition to buy a lottery ticket. But on the negative side, you don't know when to stop and squander your hard-earned money on a bad bet ... in money and love.

SNEAK PREVIEW OF NEXT WEEK:

Another exciting week lies ahead between November 18th and 24th when we come to the Leo Third Quarter Moon, which is called the BACCHANALIA MOON in Antinous Moon Magic for its gifts of transcendence ... This Lunar Phase reflects those festivals of peering into other worlds and states of being ... a restless time of high-spirited indulgence, sometimes fun, sometimes slightly scary and always capable of unleashing powerful spirits ... On a mundane level, it refers to putting on a disguise and "having a good time". On a spiritual level, it refers to entering an altered state to commune with the divine, thus this Lunar Phase is the best time of the year for trance visions ... More details next time ....

ASTRO FORECAST: JULY 11th—21st, 2019

Antinous Astrology Forecast

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JULY 11th to 21st, 2019

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THURSDAY, JULY 11th, 2019

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.

But on the brighter side Thursday, a Sun trine Neptune aspect enhances your ability to lift the veil between the worlds and to perceive spirits in other realms. This is the second Sun-Trine-Neptune configuration for 2018, the other one having been on 7th July 2018. 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.

For instance, you could seek higher understanding and meaning in your life through a guide, mentor, or spiritual person or increase your inner knowledge by means of educational processes, religion, or meditative practices during this period.

An urge to travel to far-away places (real or imaginary) may also be experienced. You may discover new perspectives on your beliefs, faith, and sense of hope.

Restoring peace and harmony in your personal life and relationships is possible now through your interest in healing your own wounds, as well as extending compassion and generosity to others.

FRI-MONDAY, JULY 12th-15th, 2019

This is the most explosive weekend of the year when Mars, which has recently entered Leo, squares off against TAURUS URANUS. This weekend's 90-degree square configuration will show us what we can expect from both planets in the months and years to come until Uranus leaves Taurus in 2025 — there might literally be explosions or at least volcanic eruptions when the warrior god is at odds with unpredictable Uranus. Pent-up anger bursts out into all-out armed conflict. This is a classic textbook recipe for assassinations and terrorist attacks. It definitely spells trouble for the world's hot spots such as the Mideast and Korea. And it does not bode well for health and environmental issues either. On the personal level, you need to be on guard for outbursts of rage. The important thing is to be aware where your rage is coming from. Don't vent your rage on innocent victims. Instead, be consciously aware of the source of your anger so that you can harness the powerful energies of Mars/Uranus to carry out constructive projects you have been stalling on for way too long.

This weekend is also highly volatile because the Sun is in 180-degree opposition to Pluto and the Star of Antinous (See: PLUTO ALIGNS WITH THE STAR OF ANTINOUS). The good news is that Pluto is Retrograde, so its mischief is understated and undercover. But the bad news is that Pluto opposite the Sun means trouble for major corporations and institutions. And in your personal life, of course, This is definitely not a good day to pick a fight with your lover — not if you don't want to be locked out of the apartment all week. And for everyone: Please drive carefully and vigilantly.

TUES-WEDNESDAY, JULY 16th-17th, 2019

Overnight Tuesday-Wednesday, there is a Lunar Eclipse as 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.

THURS-SATURDAY, JULY 18th-20th, 2019

This week, the Earth will shake (perhaps literally in the form of earthquakes) when Venus is in dramatic configurations with Saturn, Neptune and Pluto. On the negative side, this means upheavals in personal relationships, in business transactions and in financial speculation. But let's stress the positive aspects. Venus opposition Saturn is volatile unless you are flexible and willing to learn hard lessons. You should look for guidance from an older person in financial and relationship issues ... or offer guidance to a younger person ... when Venus is in opposition to Saturn. This is a time when maturity triumphs over youthful zeal. Sit back and heed the guidance of an old soul ... who can also be a spirit guide. And if you see a younger person blundering into a trap, this is the day to intercede and offer a wise word of advice based on personal experience.

Then Venus trine Neptune means you see the world through rose-colored glasses. This is a good day for smooth-talking gigolos who pay fanciful compliments to you — and you find yourself actually believing them ... And why not? Is that such a bad thing? Why not enjoy the fantasy as long as it lasts ... and as long as you know it's a fantasy?

Also, Retrograde Mercury reverses out of show-off Leo and re-enters emotion-oriented Cancer, so that your Conscious Mind will find itself engulfed in emotions for the next three weeks until Mercury goes direct and re-enters Leo. This is the time to give voice to your emotions.

And finally, the Earth may shake for you when Venus moves into opposition with Pluto and the Star of Antinous (See: PLUTO ALIGNS WITH THE STAR OF ANTINOUS). Venus opposition Pluto is something that happens only once a year. There is equally the possibility of making a profound commitment at this time, particularly in a sexual relationship. Power struggles are also possible in this phase. Venus opposition to Pluto can also literally cause the Earth to shake ... in the form of earthquakes.

SUNDAY, JULY 21st, 2019

On Sunday, 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.

SNEAK PREVIEW OF NEXT WEEK:

Another exciting week lies ahead between July 22nd and 28th when we come to the Taurus Third Quarter Moon — the LUCIUS MOON OF BROTHERS — when we honor Lucius Aelius, who was like a brother to Antinous in the imperial court of Hadrian. This night is when we celebrate our gay brothers ....

ASTRO FORECAST: APRIL 4th—14th, 2019

Antinous Astrology Forecast

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APRIL 4th to 14th, 2019

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THURS-FRIDAY, APRIL 4th-5th, 2019

Overnight Thursday-Friday, ANTINOUS THE MOON GOD aligns with his heavenly father Ra-Herakhte for the Aries New Moon which we call the FASCES MOON. The Aries New Moon is the moon of abrupt beginnings which may not be followed through, and of things said which are later regretted, of capricious actions — shoot first, ask questions later. If you have been stalling on starting something new ... now is the time to go for it. Others will warn you that you should exercise caution ... but the Fasces Moon says "no pain, no gain" and urges you to press forward.

SAT-SUNDAY, APRIL 6th-7th, 2019

This weekend, you find exactly the right imaginative and inspirational words for that important email, post or tweet when Mercury forms a positive sextile aspect with precise Saturn. And because Mercury has switched from Retrograde to Direct in the past week, you can review, revise or reiterate statements that may have led to misunderstandings the first time this aspect occurred in March.

MON-TUESDAY, APRIL 8th-9th, 2019

This week starts out romantically when love goddess Venus and emotionally deep Neptune align in conjunction in dreamy Pisces. Passion and compassion are the bywords — but watch out for over-indulgence in Neptunian party drugs and alcohol.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 10th, 2019

On Wednesday, problems arise out of no where when the Sun squares off against Saturn, as it does twice a year. Saturn is the cosmic teacher, focusing the rays of the impulsive Aries Sun on problems in your life which need to be corrected ... and giving you insights to solutions to those problems. Also on Wednesday, Mercury and Pluto form a sextile aspect. Mercury sextile Pluto facilitates negotiations with authority figures. At last, you can expect answers to some questions which have been plaguing you for the longest time. It may take a little digging, but Mercury sextile Pluto mean that the answer will be found.

THURSDAY, APRIL 11th, 2019

On Thursday, two major events occur involving Jupiter. First, Mercury is in a tight, 90-degree square angle to Jupiter. Beware of online websites that promote gross exaggerations or promises that sound too good to be true — because most likely they aren't true. Or on a whim, you might take on a large assignment on the mistaken belief that you can easily manage it, when in fact it overwhelms you. Moderation and caution are the keywords for Mercury square Jupiter. On the other hand: don't be so cautious that you fail to buy a lottery ticket — because Mercury square Jupiter can sometimes favor the underdog with unexpected good fortune.

But more importantly on Thursday, Jupiter turns around in space and goes "backwards" (as seen from Earth) from now until August 11th. Retrograde Jupiter occurs once every 13 months and last about four months. Retrograde Jupiter shines a spotlight on areas of the world ... and on people ... who have become consumed with greed, gluttony, megalomania and addiction. Everyone becomes aware of these vices and now there is an opportunity to remedy them Overall, Jupiter retrograde 2019 is very promising for achieving growth and happiness in a particular area of life that is important to you now. Unexpected good fortune is at hand with work, travel, education or a new relationship. Whatever your hopes for the future may be, this years Jupiter Retrograde is an opportunity to make great leaps towards living out your dreams. If your goals are unrealistic, deceitful or greedy, then the Jupiter direct phase from August 2019 to May 2020 may result in disappointment and loss. Even if you are travelling on the right path at this stage, you will be reminded how important it is to be happy and content with what you have. Jupiter retrograde 2019 requires introspection and an awareness that inner, spiritual growth is necessary for your hopes and dreams to materialize.

FRIDAY, APRIL 12th, 2019

On Friday, we come to the Cancer First Quarter Moon. It is the Lunar Phase of reflection and insight which we call the NARCISSUS MOON in Antinous Moon Magic ... Narcissus is the Spirit which tunes out all distractions and all other people in order to focus on the Divinity within. This Lunar Phase is the Spirit of Self-Love and Same-Sex Love. It is forever gazing into its own reflection and whispering to itself: You are Divine! The reflection and the viewer are one and the same. The Spirit of Narcissus is the Divinity which holds a mirror up to ourselves.

Also on Friday, you will really want to get together with good friends when caring-sharing Venus forms an exceedingly fortuitous sextile aspect with insightful Saturn. We're talking about long-term friends, people you have known and loved the longest — or people with whom you really want to form a long-lasting friendship.

SAT-SUNDAY, APRIL 13th-14th, 2019

On weekend,This week batten down the hatches because storms and earthquakes are in store when the Sun forms a 90-degree right angle with Pluto — a configuration which happens twice a year and which invariably spawns strife, conflict, warfare and even bad weather. The good news is that this configuration lasts only about 48 hours. But don't despair! A beneficent trine aspect between the Aries Sun and Sagittarius Jupiter comes to the rescue. This is a bright spot amidst doom-and-gloom moodiness. Jupiter has been Retrograde since April 11th, 2019, and you have experienced introspection and review. You may have felt you were spinning your wheels much of the time. And because Retrograde Jupiter is retrograde in gloomy Sagittarius, you have to rely more upon hard work than upon luck, despite the fact that Sagittarius Jupiter is the luckiest planet in the Zodiac. When Jupiter turns retrograde, the action of Jupiter is reversed so that the emphasis is upon inner awareness and inner growth. When opportunities arise while Jupiter is retrograde, they are the result of seeds planted in the past from people met or connections made in the past. This weekend's Sun-trine-Jupiter aspect represents a bright spot for this difficult period.

SNEAK PREVIEW OF NEXT WEEK:

Another exciting week lies ahead between April 15th and 21st when we come to the Libra Full Moon ... the lunar cycle we call the ORATOR MOON of diplomacy and balanced thinking. This is the perfect time for fulfilling dreams of finding just the right partner, the person who balances out your needs and desires perfectly. But remember that diplomacy is the key. Each Lunar Phase represents a Divine Spirit or Archetype. The Spirit of the Orator Moon is the embodiment of articulate expression in all forms and in all media, whether spoken, written or visual ... More details next time ....

ASTRO FORECAST: MARCH 28th—APRIL 7th, 2019

Antinous Astrology Forecast

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MARCH 28-APRIL 7, 2019

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THURS-FRIDAY, MARCH 28th-29th, 2019

Aren't you tired of all the computer glitches, "lost" files, travel delays and snafus of recent weeks? Take heart! Now Mercury does an about-face and starts going forward again as seen from Earth, ending three weeks of Retrograde "backwards" travel. So you can safely message friends and co-workers a prediction that certain "lost" computer files or parcels will show up by the time they go to work the next morning. Mercury going backwards creates this sort of impish mayhem with matters concerning communications, documents and money. Misplaced tickets, keys, "lost" computer files, letters and packages which vanish into postal limbo ... all are typical of Retrograde Mercury. The "lost" things turn up again as if by magic when Mercury goes Direct again. A skilled astrologer, Hadrian no doubt amazed his courtiers by accurately predicting when some "lost" document or wayward courier message would finally re-appear out of no where.

SAT-SUNDAY, MARCH 30th-31st, 2019

This weekend, Mars leaves stodgy Taurus and charges into Gemini. Gemini Mars is very reckless with little details like the truth, preferring ham-fisted propaganda and outright lies instead. Mars is in Gemini from now until May 16th. This is the period of the year with the most energy, enthusiasm and determination.

MON-TUESDAY, APRIL 1st-2nd, 2019

This week, your mind shifts into visionary mode when Mercury aligns with Neptune in dreamy Pisces ... for the second time in two weeks ... last week Retrograde Mercury was going "backwards" when it aligned with Neptune ... this week it is surging forwards. Pay special attention to your dreams ... and that includes day dreams. And because Mercury is transitioning from Retrograde to Direct, you can expect to dream about a person from the past ... and then receive a message from that person. You can also delve into past-life incarnations for lessons from the past that may benefit you now ... and in the future.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 3rd, 2019

On Wednesday, healing energies get a sudden and dramatic boost when the Mars forms a sextile aspect with CHIRON IN ARIES ... reinforcing the Sun conjunction Chiron aspect in mid-March. This is a good time for health checkups and medical treatment ... also, you can expect a positive and expansive outlook, which can benefit your well-being at this time. You may be more open-minded with regard to experiencing new things, which will allow healing of your mind, body, and spirit. For instance, you could seek higher understanding and meaning in your life through a guide, mentor, or spiritual person or increase your inner knowledge by means of educational processes, religion, or meditative practices during this period. An urge to travel to far-away places (real or imaginary) may also be experienced. You may discover new perspectives on your beliefs, faith, and sense of hope. Restoring peace and harmony in your personal life and relationships is possible now through your interest in healing your own wounds, as well as extending compassion and generosity to others.

THURS-FRIDAY, APRIL 4th-5th, 2019

Overnight Thursday-Friday, ANTINOUS THE MOON GOD aligns with his heavenly father Ra-Herakhte for the Aries New Moon which we call the FASCES MOON. The Aries New Moon is the moon of abrupt beginnings which may not be followed through, and of things said which are later regretted, of capricious actions — shoot first, ask questions later. If you have been stalling on starting something new ... now is the time to go for it. Others will warn you that you should exercise caution ... but the Fasces Moon says "no pain, no gain" and urges you to press forward.

SAT-SUNDAY, APRIL 6th-7th, 2019

This weekend, you find exactly the right imaginative and inspirational words for that important email, post or tweet when Mercury forms a positive sextile aspect with precise Saturn. And because Mercury has switched from Retrograde to Direct in the past week, you can review, revise or reiterate statements that may have led to misunderstandings the first time this aspect occurred in March.

SNEAK PREVIEW OF NEXT WEEK:

Another exciting week lies ahead between April 8th and 14th when we come to the Cancer First Quarter Moon. It is the Lunar Phase of reflection and insight which we call the NARCISSUS MOON in Antinous Moon Magic ... Narcissus is the Spirit which tunes out all distractions and all other people in order to focus on the Divinity within. This Lunar Phase is the Spirit of Self-Love and Same-Sex Love. It is forever gazing into its own reflection and whispering to itself: You are Divine! The reflection and the viewer are one and the same. The Spirit of Narcissus is the Divinity which holds a mirror up to ourselves ... More details next time ....

ASTRO FORECAST: FEB. 28th—MARCH 10th, 2019

Antinous Astrology Forecast

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FEB. 28-MARCH 10, 2019

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 28th, 2019

On Thursday, the Sun and Mars cause unrest. Sun sextile Mars encourages people to believe they can do anything ... and get away with anything. On the negative side, people run amok and even the weather can be more than usually unpredictable and destructive. On the positive side, however, you might accidentally run into the new love of your life ... while running for shelter.

FRIDAY, MARCH 1st, 2019

On Friday, it's make-up or break-up time when Venus squares off against Uranus. You can be sure that unanticipated upheavals will occur in interpersonal relationships. Misunderstandings and arguments come from no where. This is the sort of day when seemingly stable relationships break up for a minor reason. And at work, you sense that people are conspiring against you. And quite possibly they are.

SAT-SUNDAY, MARCH 2nd-3rd, 2019

This weekend, Venus leaves stodgy Capricorn and enters socially interactive Aquarius, so you may feel an irresistible urge to check your social network even before you get out of bed. The coming month is idea for exploring the vastness of cyber worlds in search of the ultimate interactive relationship. You sense a yearning for new and interesting places, things and friends as Aquarius Venus opens your heart to adventurous new ideas and people. It will be easy for you to overcome your shyness and meet new people. But you may get bored quickly and may have a hard time focusing on any one subject — or person.

MONDAY, MARCH 4th, 2019

Overnight Monday-Tuesday, Mercury does an about-face and goes "backwards" as seen from Earth until March 28th. This RETROGRADE MERCURY phase is a time of confusion in communications and commerce. About three times each year, Mercury the communications wizard turns into Mercury the fast-talking con man. This is the RETROGRADE MERCURY phase, and it lasts about three weeks. RETROGRADE MERCURY will be serving up glitches and snafus in communications, computers, transport, travel and social media. If you are buying a new mobile phone, be sure to read the fine print about hidden costs. Planning to move into a new apartment? Check the kitchen and bathroom for tell-tale signs of mold before signing the lease. Remember over the next three weeks that MERCURY wants you to play his sly game to win — not to be a whining victim. Make him proud of the way you play his game!

TUESDAY, MARCH 5th, 2019

On Tuesday, we come to the biggest sign-change of the year when Uranus leaves Aquarius, where it has been since 2011, and enters Taurus, where it will remain until 2025. With TAURUS URANUS, we can expect revolutionary changes in technology, political institutions and financial affairs, and we most certainly must reckon with increased earthquakes and natural disasters. To give you an idea of what to expect, the last time Uranus was in Taurus was from 1934 to 1942 &mash; and that period was generally marked by chaos worldwide. In the wake of the economic difficulties which lingered after the 1929 crash, many extremist regimes came to power: Franco, Mussolini, Hitler, then the establishment of the Vichy regime. Japan launched a war of aggression in the Pacific and Germany attacked its neighbors in Europe and, after a policy of isolationism, the United States went to war after the Pearl Harbour attack in 1941. We must keep in mind that some key-areas which underwent Uranian upheavals linked to Taurus may be on the agenda again: finance, agriculture, and the temptation of totalitarianism, for example.

WED-THURSDAY, MARCH 6th-7th, 2019

Overnight Wednesday-Thursday, we come to the PISCES NEW MOON. In Antinous Moon Magic this is the lunar phase we call the DOG MOON of fidelity, friendship and faithfulness. The Spirit of the Dog Moon is loving and supportive friendship. This Spirit is loving and faithful, comforting you with familiarity when you see yourself reflected in this Spirit. It is the perfect combination of comfort and stimulus to grow and provides a wonderful companion that walks with you through life, helping you define and refine who you are and who you choose to be every day.

FRIDAY, MARCH 8th, 2019

On Friday, the Sun has its annual rendezvous with intuitive Neptune. It is as if a theatrical stage spotlight is fitted with a greenish filter which casts a dreamy light onto the stage which bathes everything in watery pastel greens. This can make it difficult for you to make important decisions. But it can also help you to look deeper into your heart to help you make those decisions on a deeply intuitive basis.

SATURDAY, MARCH 9th, 2019

On Friday, the Sun forms a cozy sextile aspect with Saturn, which provides an opportunity to slow down and stand back and review what plans you have in store for the year. No matter how fast and furiously (and destructively) things have been occurring so far this New Year, you now have a chance to analyse and study what needs to be done to ensure things are smoother the rest of the year.

SUNDAY, MARCH 10th, 2019

On Sunday, Mars sextile Neptune creates a magical moment. 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.

SNEAK PREVIEW OF NEXT WEEK:

Another exciting week lies ahead between March 11th and 17th when we come to the Gemini First Quarter moon ... the lunar phase we call the JACKAL MOON in Antinous Moon Magic. Each Lunar Phase represents a Divine Spirit or Archetype. The Spirit of the Jackal in Antinous oracular arts is the embodiment of cunning and skill and sleight-of-hand and being slightly dodgy and sneaky but also being incredibly adept and learned in the ways of the world. The Gemini First Quarter Moon is the March moon of the Trickster, who taunts and teases, who plays tricks, who leads the soul through dark and treacherous passages ... who is more treacherous than any Underworld foe ... but whose cunning enables him to bring his charges to their goal. Meditations and rituals carried out tonight are best suited for looking beyond the the veil of lies and deceit that others (or we ourselves) throw over our eyes to prevent us from seeing clearly. This is also a very good night for finding canny and cunning solutions to difficult problems ... strategies for out-smarting those who seek to pull the wool over our eyes ... More details next time ....

2019 IS "THE YEAR OF MERCURY"

FROM an astrological viewpoint, the Year 2019 is ushering in an opportunity to enhance these areas of our lives: Mind. Communication. Intellect. Reason. Language. Intelligence.

According to a rather obscure astrological text called the "Galendarjum Oeconomicum Practicum Perpetuum," the Year 2019 is the "Year of Mercury."

The Year 2015 was the "Year of Jupiter" and 2016 it was Mars's turn to take over, then 2017 was the year of the Sun. That was followed by 2018 the "Year of Venus."

While political upheaval and emotional turmoil were the themes of 2017 and 2018, Mercury ushers in a year of verbal and mental gymnastics in 2019 ... remember that Mercury-Hermes is the Classical god of rogues, thieves and con-men ... as well as of commerce, communications and travel.

To understand fully how the Year of Mercury affects our lives, it is important to understand the other major celestial event dominating the year 2019 ... the STAR OF ANTINOUS aligned in conjunction with both PLUTO and  SATURN IN CAPRICORN.  

It is highly ironic that the German alchemist and astrologer Dr. Mauritius Knauer devised his perpetual calendar based on planetary rulerships in the late 18th Century. His "Galendarjum Oeconomicum Practicum Perpetuum" was published just as the planet Pluto was entering the Sign of Capricorn.

And now Pluto is again in the Sign of Capricorn for the first time since the 18th Century.

Pluto in Capricorn is about revolutionizing age-old political and economic structures and replacing them with completely new and different structures.

Just look at the changes which occurred in the late 18th Century ... the French Revolution and the American Revolution, for starters.

Look at all the political turmoil in the world since Pluto entered Capricorn in early December 2008.

And just look at all the turmoil on the global financial markets, the Arab Spring, uprisings and warfare around the world ... and a horrific resurgence of Islamic terrorism.

Pluto will remain in Capricorn until the year 2024 ... by which time many cherished and time-honored political and economic institutions will have been swept aside forever.

Ironically, the planet Uranus was also discovered in the 18th Century, and many astrologers consider its discovery to have marked the first faint Dawning of the Age of Aquarius, the sign which Uranus rules.

Uranus, Saturn and Pluto have been in tense aspects to each other on and off for the past several years ... exacerbating all the global tensions forcing renewal and renovation.

It is going to be a very tumultuous and frightening year for many people, and it is very fitting for you to feel fear and panic in this "Year of Mercury 2019".

But there is also hope ... because Mercury is a playful trickster. He plays tricks on you and forces you to play his game ... but he does not do this in order to defeat you ... no, Mercury wants you to win at his game ... by employing all your wits and all your cunning and all your skill ... to win his game.

Of major importance during this Year of Mercury will be the three RETROGRADE MERCURY periods when Mercury appears to go "backwards" (as seen from the Earth) for about three weeks.

Here are the three Mercury Retrograde periods in 2019:

• March 5th to March 28th 2019
• July 7th to August 1st 2019
• October 31st to November 11th 2019

Mercury is the planetary ruler of Gemini and Virgo, so if you were born under those signs, then 2019 is your year. But all of the signs benefit from Mercury's cunning and slyness during this year. Here are a few pointers:

ARIES: Be alert for new opportunities to fulfil your heart's desire. Your dreams won't wait. Mercury will help you make them a reality.

TAURUS: Get out of that comfortable rut you have been living in and wallowing in. Mercury is eager to put wings on your feet and help you to fly.

GEMINI: Mercury rules your birth sign and rules this year, so this is your year to shine. In business and in personal relationships you will make lots of new contacts.

CANCER: Look deep within your heart to see what is truly important to you to achieve this year. Mercury will give you the insight and perspective to see clearly.

LEO: It's time to devote yourself to your career, because nothing can hold you back. Mercury will shine the spotlight on you as you step onto the stage.

VIRGO: Stop fretting and be proud of your ability to bring order and discipline out of the chaos of life. Mercury will help you make sense of the chaos around you so you can focus on helping others.

LIBRA: Charm your way into the good graces of important people you can advance your projects. Mercury will giving you the articulate phraseology (lies if necessary) to sweet-talk others into doing what they should do anyway to start with.

SCORPIO: Those thorny problems which have been hampering you need to be eliminated. Mercury will give you the ingenuity to find a way around them ... or through them.

SAGITTARIUS: Go ahead and allow your imagination to be fired up by new impressions all around you. Mercury will give flight to your fantasies and turn them into realities.

CAPRICORN: How about further education? Or perhaps you want to learn another language? Mercury loves people who like to learn.

AQUARIUS: You hate sameness and you love change. Mercury is ready and eager to help you discover totally new avenues of communication and ways of thinking ... and will introduce you to lots of new people too.

PISCES: Your career has been in the doldrums too long. Starting in April you can expect a big boost. Mercury will gladly give you a boost ... but you can't be shy ... be bold!

ASTRO FORECAST: JULY 26th—AUG 5th, 2018

Antinous Astrology Forecast

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JULY 26th to AUG 5th, 2018

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THURSDAY, JULY 26th, 2018

On Thursday, Mercury does an about-face and goes "backwards" as seen from Earth until August 18th. This RETROGRADE MERCURY phase is a time of confusion in communications and commerce. About three times each year, Mercury the communications wizard turns into Mercury the fast-talking con man. This is the RETROGRADE MERCURY phase, and it lasts about three weeks. RETROGRADE MERCURY will be serving up glitches and snafus in communications, computers, transport, travel and social media. If you are buying a new mobile phone, be sure to read the fine print about hidden costs. Planning to move into a new apartment? Check the kitchen and bathroom for tell-tale signs of mold before signing the lease. Remember over the next three weeks that MERCURY wants you to play his sly game to win — not to be a whining victim. Make him proud of the way you play his game!

FRIDAY, JULY 27th, 2018

This weekend promises to be one of the darkest and most tragic times in human history when the Sun is in 180-degree opposition to Retrograde Mars during a Total Lunar Eclipse even as Mercury is standing still in space and turning from Direct to Retrograde. Because Mars is Retrograde (going "backwards" as seen from Earth), long-buried conflicts and resentments from the past will flare anew. The Cold War could return with a vengeance. The threat of nuclear annihilation could take on new life. In your personal life, an old dispute with your neighbors or with your ex-lover could come home to visit you again. This configuration occurs while Mars is at its closes to the Earth, meaning the War God's energies are at their strongest. Meanwhile, this Total Lunar Eclipse occurs during the AQUARIUS FULL MOON. This is the summertime moon of generous gifts which we associate with Antinous/Vertumnus, the shape-shifting God of summertime bounty and generous gifts. We call this the DONUM MOON when magical rituals are performed for fortuitous gifts.

SAT-SUNDAY, JULY 28th-29th, 2018

This weekend, love planet Venus is in a powerful trine aspect with Pluto. Virgo Venus is looking for someone to share a nurturing life with, while Capricorn Pluto is looking for a profound relationship which endures for all eternity. So this Venus trine Pluto configuration can help you find your soul mate. Venus trine Pluto is also very good for financial and business transactions which will provide long-term yields.

MON-FRIDAY, JULY 30th-AUG 3rd, 2018

This is the most explosive week of the year when Mars, which has just entered Aquarius (and has now turned Retrograde), squares off against Uranus, which has just entered Taurus. These are major sign changes and this week's 90-degree square configuration (the second Mars-square-Uranus since May 2018) will show us what we can expect from both planets in the months and years to come until Uranus leaves Taurus in 2025 — there might literally be explosions or at least volcanic eruptions when the warrior god is at odds with unpredictable Uranus. Pent-up anger bursts out into all-out armed conflict. This is a classic textbook recipe for assassinations and terrorist attacks. It definitely spells trouble for the world's hot spots such as the Mideast and Korea. And it does not bode well for health and environmental issues either. On the personal level, you need to be on guard for outbursts of rage. The important thing is to be aware where your rage is coming from. Don't vent your rage on innocent victims. Instead, be consciously aware of the source of your anger so that you can harness the powerful energies of Mars/Uranus to carry out constructive projects you have been stalling on for way too long.

SAT-SUNDAY, AUG 4th-5th, 2018

This weekend we come to the Taurus Third Quarter Moon — the LUCIUS MOON OF BROTHERS — when we honor Lucius Aelius, who was like a brother to Antinous in the imperial court of Hadrian. This night is when we celebrate our gay brothers.

SNEAK PREVIEW OF NEXT WEEK:

Another exciting week lies ahead between August 6th and 12th when we come to the Leo New Moon. That is the lunar phase we call the SACERDOTE MOON which spiritually kick-starts your life ... Take time to reflect on becoming who you were born to be ... Rather than focusing on a specific task, go to the center of your heart and meditate on the core strength of your soul ... Perhaps you are here to bring beauty, whether through art, justice, or fashion ... Perhaps you are here to help heal the offering of the world, whether through your writing, activism, or as a physician ... Or maybe you are here to bring insight and truth where there is confusion and ignorance ... More details next time ....

ASTRO FORECAST: JULY 12th—29th, 2018

Antinous Astrology Forecast

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JULY 12th to 29th, 2018

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THURS-FRIDAY, JULY 12th-13th, 2018

Overnight Thursday-Friday, the Sun and Moon are in opposition to both Pluto and the Star of Antinous AND there is a Partial Solar Eclipse. This is a highly volatile configuration because the Sun is in 180-degree opposition to Pluto. The good news is that Pluto is Retrograde, so its mischief is understated and undercover. But the bad news is that Pluto opposite the Sun means trouble for major corporations and institutions. And in your personal life, of course, This is definitely not a good day to pick a fight with your lover — not if you don't want to be locked out of the apartment all week. And for everyone: Please drive carefully and vigilantly. The Partial Solar Eclipse (visible over the South Pacific) occurs during 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.

SAT-SUNDAY, JULY 14th-15th, 2018

This weekend, social-minded Virgo Venus forms a productive trine aspect with Capricorn Saturn. Venus trine Saturn helps you perceive whom you can trust for the long run and it helps you remember that business can be a pleasure.

MON-WEDNESDAY, JULY 16th-18th, 2018

This week you will want to watch out for excesses in eating, drinking, spending money and falling in love when indulgent Venus forms an expansive sextile aspect with exaggeration-prone Jupiter. If you are a latent shopoholic, this is the one week of the year where you will max out on your addiction ... while maxing out on your credit card. This is a good day for smooth-talking gigolos who pay fanciful compliments to you ... and you find yourself actually believing them ... And why not? Is that such a bad thing? Why not enjoy the fantasy as long as it lasts ... and as long as you know it's a fantasy?

THURS-FRIDAY, JULY 19th-20th, 2018

Overnight Thursday-Friday, 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.

SAT-SUNDAY, JULY 21st-22nd, 2018

This weekend, the Sun enters Leo which will brighten and help inspire creativity and a sense of fun. Leo is the home sign of the Sun, which means the next four weeks encourage leadership and creative expression. The Sun is most comfortable in Leo, and helps those with genuine intentions step into the limelight. If you're looking to get ahead, now's the time to shine! Promote your talents and ensure higher-ups understand exactly what you're capable of — and what you're looking for. Progress is possible, especially if you're prepared to boldly express your desires. The Sun in Leo symbolizes royalty, so be firm as well as considerate now. Working with others helps you get ahead — but be upfront about your intentions, and don't be bossy.

MON-TUESDAY, JULY 23rd-24th, 2018

This week, be careful about the person you take home from the clubs because Venus is in 180-degree opposition to dreamy Neptune. The Venus/Neptune opposition means you may see romantic situations through lavender-colored glasses which blind you to unpleasant realities. You wake up the next morning to the stark and naked truth.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 25th, 2018

On Wednesday, the Sun and Uranus are in a 90-degree square aspect to each other. This aspect creates unreliability and betrayal amongst friends, allies and coworkers. Stress and rancour and lots of rage and unrest are the result.

THURSDAY, JULY 26th, 2018

On Thursday, Mercury does an about-face and goes "backwards" as seen from Earth until August 18th. This RETROGRADE MERCURY phase is a time of confusion in communications and commerce. About three times each year, Mercury the communications wizard turns into Mercury the fast-talking con man. This is the RETROGRADE MERCURY phase, and it lasts about three weeks. RETROGRADE MERCURY will be serving up glitches and snafus in communications, computers, transport, travel and social media. If you are buying a new mobile phone, be sure to read the fine print about hidden costs. Planning to move into a new apartment? Check the kitchen and bathroom for tell-tale signs of mold before signing the lease. Remember over the next three weeks that MERCURY wants you to play his sly game to win — not to be a whining victim. Make him proud of the way you play his game!

FRIDAY, JULY 27th, 2018

This weekend promises to be one of the darkest and most tragic times in human history when the Sun is in 180-degree opposition to Retrograde Mars during a Total Lunar Eclipse even as Mercury is standing still in space and turning from Direct to Retrograde. Because Mars is Retrograde (going "backwards" as seen from Earth), long-buried conflicts and resentments from the past will flare anew. The Cold War could return with a vengeance. The threat of nuclear annihilation could take on new life. In your personal life, an old dispute with your neighbors or with your ex-lover could come home to visit you again. This configuration occurs while Mars is at its closest to the Earth, meaning the War God's energies are at their strongest. Meanwhile, this Total Lunar Eclipse occurs during the AQUARIUS FULL MOON. This is the summertime moon of generous gifts which we associate with Antinous/Vertumnus, the shape-shifting God of summertime bounty and generous gifts. We call this the DONUM MOON when magical rituals are performed for fortuitous gifts.

SAT-SUNDAY, JULY 28th-29th, 2018

This weekend, love planet Venus is in a powerful trine aspect with Pluto. Virgo Venus is looking for someone to share a nurturing life with, while Capricorn Pluto is looking for a profound relationship which endures for all eternity. So this Venus trine Pluto configuration can help you find your soul mate. Venus trine Pluto is also very good for financial and business transactions which will provide long-term yields.

SNEAK PREVIEW OF NEXT WEEK:

Another exciting week lies ahead between July 30th and August 5th when we come to the Taurus Third Quarter Moon — the LUCIUS MOON OF BROTHERS — when we honor Lucius Aelius, who was like a brother to Antinous in the imperial court of Hadrian. This night is when we celebrate our gay brothers ... More details next time ....

ASTRO FORECAST: APRIL 5th—15th, 2018

Antinous Astrology Forecast

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APRIL 5th to 15th, 2018

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THURSDAY, APRIL 5th, 2018

On Thursday, Mercury boosts tensions by squaring off against both Saturn and Mars. Mercury square Saturn means some stubborn issues offer you the challenge of facing them without procrastinating. On the positive side, though, you find you have the tenacity and determination to face them. Mercury square Mars is a textbook case for trouble in communications. Some astrologers say this is when people sharpen their swords, but we prefer to say it is when people sharpen their tongues to use as weapons! Remember that lovely line from "The Importance of Being Earnest" by Oscar Wilde (who is a Saint of Antinous, by the way): "On an occasion of this kind it becomes more than a moral duty to speak one's mind. It becomes a pleasure." This is an aspect which encourages people to say vicious and intentionally hurtful things. People are overly persnickety and bitchy and downright mean. You'll be amazed how true this is.

FRIDAY, APRIL 6th, 2018

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

SAT-SUNDAY, APRIL 7th-8th, 2018

This weekend we come to the Capricorn Third Quarter Moon which, in Antinous Moon Magic, we call the HADRIAN'S WALL MOON of stubborn intransigence and immovable barriers. Each Lunar Phase represents a Divine Spirit or Archetype. The Spirit of the Hadrian's Wall Lunar Phase is the embodiment of hindrances and blockages. It represents the barriers that stand in your way. It is all barriers and obstacles to progress. Meditations and rituals conducted on this night are best suited for focusing on blockages in your life, situations and issues which prevent you from moving forward. These can be manifested by persons or situations around you. But most often, we find during meditations on this night that we have erected prison walls around ourselves, we are blocking ourselves from the freedom we so earnestly desire. This Lunar Phase is saying it is time to break out!

MON-TUESDAY, APRIL 9th-10th, 2018

This week batten down the hatches because storms and earthquakes are in store when the Sun forms a 90-degree right angle with Pluto — a configuration which happens twice a year and which invariably spawns strife, conflict, warfare and even bad weather. The good news is that this configuration lasts only about 48 hours.

WED-FRIDAY, APRIL 11th-13th, 2018

At mid-week Venus trine Mars and Venus sextile Neptune create a magical moment. 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.

SATURDAY, APRIL 14th, 2018

This is one of the most dramatic weeks of the astrological year ... a time when you must be very careful in traffic ... avoid public places where terrorist attacks could occur ... and when reckless rules could cause global havoc. Suspicious Scorpio Jupiter is in a sextile aspect to Capricorn Pluto. This aspect heralds disaster on the global political and financial markets — a restructuring of the world's political and economic systems. The arrogance of unbridled growth (Jupiter) will be put into question by thorough and deep-seated structural reordering (Pluto) for the benefit of all humanity, not just for a few. This configuration is warning you — no, ordering you — to reassess your assets. Money and property are transitory things. Reflect on what is truly valuable to you. Now for the good news: Mars forms a beneficent sextile aspect to intuitive Neptune. Not only are you lucky, but you find the right words to say at the right time ... and take the right actions ... to make your good fortune come true

SUNDAY, APRIL 14th, 2018

On Sunday, you find that lost or delayed parcels and letters have finally arrived in your mailbox. Computer files you "lost" three weeks ago suddenly turn up in a folder you hadn't checked. Your "lost" credit card turns up between sofa cushions. You finally get a job interview offer on a job application you submitted a month ago. That is because Mercury is moving forward again after having ended its three-week-long RETROGRADE MERCURY period. Now is the time to sign contracts, commit yourself to major expenditures and make big travel plans.

SNEAK PREVIEW OF NEXT WEEK:

Another exciting week lies ahead between April 16th and 22nd when ANTINOUS THE MOON GOD aligns with his heavenly father Ra-Herakhte for the Aries New Moon which we call the FASCES MOON. The Aries New Moon is the moon of abrupt beginnings which may not be followed through, and of things said which are later regretted, of capricious actions — shoot first, ask questions later. If you have been stalling on starting something new ... now is the time to go for it. Others will warn you that you should exercise caution ... but the Fasces Moon says "no pain, no gain" and urges you to press forward .... More details next time.