There are two separate sets of aspects listed when considering a Progression: Those aspects which the Progressed Planets form with other Progressed Planets (which are listed in Diagram IV), and those aspects formed by the angular relationship between Progressed and "Radix Planets"* as listed in Diagram V. A major change in the relationship of a Nativity and a Progression is caused by the actual movement of the planets in the Zodiac. In this way a planet may move away from its natal location in the Zodiac and form new aspects to the other planets, also to its original place in the chart. The measure of time for a chart made by this seeming movement is one day for each year of life, i.e. the aspects formed during the first day define the phenomenon permeating the first 12 months and so on. After birth, the Signs and Planets all move away from the original places occupied in the birth chart, and because they all move at different rates, they form new aspects, not only to their various fixed places in the birth horoscope, but also among themselves as they advance. Therefore, a distinction must be made between a Radix Planet as it exists in the Nativity, and the same planet when being considered in relationship to a Progressed planet. In other words, a planet is considered to be Radix when studied in a Nativity, yet when evaluating the same planet in a Progression we refer to it as a Progressed Planet. We differentiate here simply so that you may understand thoroughly the concepts involved in a Progression. Throughout this lesson, whenever we wish to refer to planets from our sample birth chart, such as Mercury, we call it Radix Mercury, which means the position Mercury occupies in the Natal Chart. Mars will be Radix Mars; Moon, Radix Moon, etc.

   We contend that the 2nd group of aspects, namely Progressed, to the Radix Planets is of far more significance than the aspects formed between the Progressed Planets themselves. Therefore, the major part of our delineation, here, revolves around the Progressed to the Natal planetary aspects. The initial group of aspects also is considered, but only according to their measure of impact, which is slight. We also maintain that because of the essential nature of transits, only the major aspects will be considered. However, the basic minor aspects are also listed in Diagrams IV & V and their significance is mentioned.

   In the previous Lesson (XX) you were introduced to the basic precepts of a transit. Now we expand that knowledge so that the word "transit" becomes an integral word in your vocabulary. In light of the preceding statement sit back relax, and read carefully this fascinating concept. Remember what was said in Lesson XX; "When we say that a planet is transiting we are merely defining its motion through the zodiac. When we talk about a progressed planet we simply are referring to a transiting planet whose motion we have halted for a specific progressed time and place." (It would benefit you immensely if you would refer back to and restudy the section in Lesson XX concerning transits so this material is made fresh in your mind.) Within our present sample charts, both the Radix Chart and the Progressed Chart, let us define exactly what we have accomplished. When we erected the natal chart we stopped the motion of the transiting planets for the exact time, date, and place in question. The influences within this Nativity are of paramount significance as they stamp an indelible astrological pattern on our client. However, the pattern is not absolute and is subject to the changing nature of the universe. The transit of the planets and the signs through the Zodiac does not cease with the erection of the nativity but it continues, expanding and developing that pattern within the scope of the nativity. The workings of this expansion and development are the subject of a Progression. For our sample client we have chosen his 24th year to stop the transit (motion) of the planets and signs once again. We have done this to depict any major astrological changes which our client may be experiencing. Remember that the three major evaluations, in our nativity delineation were, in order, a detailed consideration of the Natal Sun, Moon, and Ascendant Signs. Our essential methods of procedure in estimating the impact of a Progression is similar. We commence with an investigation of the Progressed Sun and then continue into Progressed Moon, Ascendant and the aspects. There are several differences, however, within the basically same approach, when investigating a Progression. The major difference is within our appraisal of the Progressed Aspects and the transiting nature of the Progressed Planets through the set arcs of influence for aspects with Natal Planets.

   Remember that there are various methods of progressing a Birth Chart in order to discover the trends working in a life during future years. We use the "day for a year" method.

   The progression of the Sun from one sign to another correlates with a new upsurging of desires, feelings, and traits which were latent before. (Note: The Progressed Sun is of vital importance, hence a corresponding amount of time is devoted to its delineation.) It is similar to the culmination of something which has been developing inside all along. A change occurs, yet most often, it is in the sub-conscious, and most people are not aware of it. You are no longer part of this endless futility. From now on you will be able to understand people in light of the natural changes they experience. You can now identify and study the change itself and the astrological phenomena behind it. The wealth of your conversation will astound people. Events may seem to cause these changes, or they may seem to cause the events, however, they are a basic reality which must be accepted. The ideas of correlation and synchronization with the planetary pattern of the universe seems to grasp so much more of the reality of life than the mere "cause and effect" theory which is so limited. You are now capable of explaining to people that a change is imminent and can help them prepare for, and adapt to it.

   Our client's Radix Sun was positioned at 16 degrees of Gemini, however, for our Progressed date it has travelled to the 10 degrees of Cancer. Our client's Sun has progressed from the middle of Gemini (16 degrees) to the beginning of the middle of Cancer (10 degrees). This does not mean that our client loses his Gemini qualities, but simply that they are now modified by the Cancerian tendencies. Our quick-minded, adaptable, versatile Gemini is becoming very sensitive and emotional. Considering the elemental difference between the two signs is a most effective method of understanding the change. (Note: You can refer back to Lesson 8, pp 17 & 18 and renew your knowledge concerning the basic precepts of the elements of Air and Water.) Gemini is of the Air element and Air encompasses all that is intellectual and social. The Air Signs are most naturally associated with the channels of communication, thought, adaptability, and the gift of making and sustaining relationships with ease. Gemini is the epitome of the Air Signs. Referring back to Lesson 18 we can reconsider the potency of the Gemini impact on our client. He has a strong and evolved character with excellent intellectual powers. Gemini is extremely personable and finds it easy to communicate with almost anyone. The Radix Gemini Sun endows our client with a driving versatility, implying that he can appreciate that beautiful variety which is the spice of life.

   Cancer is of the Water element. The Water Signs are signs of heavy emotion, psychic power, and the soul development. It is of no small consequence that both Gemini and Cancer commence their respective triplicities. The emotion that is Cancer essentially concerns the domestic sphere of life. An atmosphere of tranquility permeating the home life is of paramount importance for the Cancerian person. Any domestic problems will upset the emotional balance, and incite corresponding anxiety and worry. He is a very delicate person and the slightest problem can incite his emotions to a dangerous level of instability.

   Can you identify now the vital change which our Radix Sun Gemini is undergoing? He is starting to settle down now, having usurped much of the restlessness which is Gemini. Whereas before his mind continually flowed from thought to thought, person to person without much concern, he is now becoming increasingly sensitive to the intensity of the world around him. His emotional makeup is undergoing a drastic alteration and he must condition himself to accept this and mold into it. His impressions of people and life in general are becoming more acute. The Gemini precepts are still very much a part of him, however he is now, in a sense, employing his Gemini powers to tackle the emotional and psychic world of Cancer. (Note: Because the impact of the Radix Sun is so powerful our client will experience the effects of the Gemini influence throughout his life. Nevertheless, the Gemini impact will be covered over by the influence of, in this case, Cancer.) His versatility, natural charm, and wit are still within him yet, now, he feels them more intensely. Because our emotional balance is so vital to us, it is always hard for Cancer (being a highly emotional sign) people to accept the world for what it is. Now more than ever before he must strive to understand the harsh realities of life. If he cannot accomplish this his nerves will shatter. It is fortunate for our client that he is of strong character because this enables him to take the transition somewhat easier.

   Before we can say any more about our client's Progressed Sun influence we must examine its aspects. As we have previously instructed you, we claim that the aspects listed in Diagram V, namely, those which Progressed Planets form with Radix Planets are of greater significance than those listed in Diagram IV, which concerns itself with the aspects between Progressed Planets themselves. In light of this principle we will delineate only those major aspects in Diagram V, yet mentioning the impact of the aspects in Diagram IV. Referring to Diagram V we discover that the Progressed Sun forms a semi-sextile aspect with Radix Mars, a square one with Radix Neptune, and a semi-sextile one with Radix Pluto. The applied application of your Aspect Interpretation Chart clearly unravels the secrets of any aspect. Hence, we apply the chart to the square aspect involving the Progressed Sun to Radix Neptune since it is the only major aspect formed by the Progressed Sun. However, the impact of the minor two aspects (the semi-sextile to Radix Mars, and the semi-sextile to Radix Pluto) will also be considered. The aspect in question is the square formed by the Progressed Sun in 10 degrees of Cancer and Radix Neptune is 13 degrees Libra, and through the conscientious application of the principles of our interpretation chart we can determine if the aspect creates harmony or disharmony within our client's life sphere. Remember that there are quite a few astrologers who automatically assume that the square is an evil aspect. This approach is an horrendous error and has been undermining the reality of aspects for many years. The application of our Aspect Interpretation Chart discloses the truth of the aspect. There is one additional principle which is necessary when considering aspects between Progressed to Radix Planets and that is the concept of transits. This simply involves the assessment of when the aspect in question occurs and how long it affects our client.

I) The Nature of the Aspecting Planets

   By referring to Lesson VI, pp. 7 & 28 we can establish the information necessary to define the fundamental precepts behind each planet. Since by now we assume that your knowledge of the planets is becoming fingertip, we simply describe some of the vital concepts of each planet. The Sun represents life itself, not only in the heart, but in each cell. It is the heaviest influence in Astrology, whether we are considering a Nativity or a Progression, and this is essentially why we spend so much time estimating the effect of its impact. It is of principle importance that you bear in mind that we are examining the Progressed Sun of our client which is transiting through a square aspect with Radix Neptune.

   The planet Neptune provides second sight, mediumistic power, and the knowledge of the past and the future. The effects of Neptune are the most eccentric of all the planets. It is pure fact that some of the most successful businessmen often have Neptune strongly accentuated in their horoscope. Such men have a mystic, uncanny knack of realizing the most effective way of making the corresponding right move. Neptune rules all things that are widely distributed, whether rumors or chainstore businesses.

II) Elemental and Sign Position of the Aspecting Planets

   The Progressed Sun is positioned in 10 degrees Cancer. Cancer is a sign of the Water triplicity. Natal Neptune is posited in 13 degrees of Libra. Libra is a sign of the Air triplicity. Cosmically, air and water do not mix, so the aspect ignites a certain amount of underlying elemental discord. However, we must journey deeper into the nature of the aspect before deciding on its potential. Granted that the elemental considerations of an aspect are most rewarding and enlightening, we still must examine the entire scope of the influence.

   Neither the Sun nor Neptune is in the position of its exaltation or dignification, nor in the position of its detriment or fall, so we may proceed.

Ill) The Nature of the Aspect

   We already determined the nature of the aspect in the preceding principle, having ascertained that the aspect contained some elemental imbalance. A precise contemplation of a House influence unravels some more of the mystery.

IV) House Influence

   The two planets in question are the Progressed Sun, which is posited in 10 degrees of Cancer, in the 10th House and the Radix Neptune, which is posited in 13 degrees Libra in the 2nd House. By simple reference to Lesson VII, pp. 11 & 29, we can depict the precepts of each House.

   The 2nd House of the Zodiac defines an individual's personal financial interests. It specifies an individual's attitude towards money and typifies the sources from which money can be obtained through personal effort. Remember the profession is indicated in the 10th House.

   It is imperative to stress here that when we talk about money gained or lost we do not mean as a result of speculation or investment, for that comes under the influence of the 5th House. When it is gained or lost through legacy or an inheritance it is through the influence of the 8th House. In the 2nd House we are concerned only with the gain or loss of money through personal efforts. Individual physical labor and any other similar means.

   Neptune in the 2nd House implies that the native has a strong urge to make money easily and quickly. He must exert extreme caution so that this urge does not interfere with his natural sense of discrimination between right and wrong. If matters are not going smoothly the temptation of crime and dishonesty may be too great for him to ignore. The prospects of easy money will always attract him and he has to watch himself.

   The transiting Progressed Sun occupies the 10th degree of Cancer in the 10th House. (Please note that the Radix and Progressed Sun for this Progression both occupy the 10th House.) Fundamentally, the 10th House is the House of profession. This House is assigned to all the ways through which your nature is revealed to the world. It signifies things such as parentage, social status, but most essentially, the profession which our client is best suited to follow.

   The Progressed Sun in the 10th House implies, just as the Radix Sun, that our client possesses a natural ability to run his own business. Fundamentally, the Sun is well placed, in the 10th House, strengthening the overall character development and indicating a tremendous capacity for organization and leadership.

   So we find that both the Progressed Sun and Radix Neptune are well placed as far as House Position is concerned. This lightens the negative effects produced by the essential elemental discord present within the aspect.

V) Other Aspects and Their Influence Here

   The Progressed Sun forms but two other minor aspects with a Radix Planet and they are a semi-sextile with Radix Mars in 28 degrees of Taurus in the 10th House and a semi-sextile with Radix Pluto in 14 degrees of Leo in the 12th House. Since they are not major aspects, we need only to treat them briefly, expounding on the essential principles of harmony or disharmony within the aspects. As we have said before, the Sun is in Cancer and Cancer is of the Water element, Mars is in Taurus, which is of the Earth element. Cosmically, Water and Earth mix and together the aspect produces an elemental harmony. This serves to modify the underlying elemental discord with the major square aspect under contemplation. Pluto is in Leo which is of the Fire element, producing discord. Therefore, these two minor semi-square aspects negate each other.

   Let's review exactly what originally is happening now. The Progressed Sun is transiting through a square aspect with Radix Neptune. The Sun is the transitor and Neptune is the planet being transited. We have evaluated this major aspect of the Progressed Sun and the minor aspects formed with Radix Mars and Radix Pluto. Before we conclude our study of the Progressed Sun through this square aspect with Radix Neptune, we must take a look at Neptune's position in the Nativity. Referring to Diagram II herein, we discover that Neptune is unaspected in the birth chart. Sometimes this occurs and it shortens our work. The nature and duration of the transit of the Progressed Sun through the arc of influence of a square aspect with Radix Neptune is our next consideration. We concentrate on this transit of the Progressed Sun, yet at the same time we depict the estimated nature of all transits.

   The first point we must consider is the duration of the transit. This depends on two things. (The following information we apply to this present transit, but it is applicable to all transits.) First, we note which planet is doing the transiting (Transitor) for, as you know, each planet moves through the Zodiac at its own rate of motion, the Moon being the swiftest and Pluto the slowest. Their order of speed is Moon, Mercury, Venus, Sun, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune, Pluto. In this case, the transitor is the Progressed Sun which transits the 12 Signs in approximately one year.*

   The following table provides some key information in connection with transits, as it defines the approximate period of time required for a planet to transit from its Radix position through the 12 signs and return to its original position in the natal chart.

   The Moon transits the 12 Signs in 27 days 7 hours 43 minutes.

   Our second consideration is whether or not the transits (Progressed Sun) turns retrograde before it moves out of the arc of influence for the aspect in question. As you know from Lesson XVII, the Sun and the Moon never appear in a retrograde position, but an explanation of this concept is necessary for the other planets. Frequently a transiting planet reaches a certain point, turns retrograde and recrosses that same point; then turning direct in motion crosses it for the 3rd time, thus affecting any Radix Planet within the Arc of Influence of that aspect much longer than usual. We can easily discover when a planet is in retrograde by a simple reference to the Ephemeris.

   The transit of the Sun through the Radix is the most decisive and influential of all transits. The good and adverse aspects which it forms to Radix Planets imply the favorable and unfavorable Solar periods in each year. We are now ready to define the duration of the transit of Progressed Sun through the Arc of Influence for a square aspect with Radix Neptune. The Sun moves forward about 1 degree each day in the Zodiac, hence it transits the square aspect with Radix Neptune for roughly 8 days because there is 8 degrees of influence here. For number of degrees of influence of each aspect see Lesson XV, p. 35. The period immediately preceding the actual formation of the aspect and that period immediately following are also important as the impact of the aspect is being felt. This period before or after amounts to about 2 days on each end, hence the overall length of the aspect is 12 days. In other words, for 12 days, during the Sun's travel from 5 degrees to 17 degrees of Cancer. The Progressed Sun transits the arc of influence for a square aspect to Radix Neptune.

   The aspect generates some essential elemental disparity, yet the Progressed Sun and Radix Neptune are fortified by Sign and House Positions. Radix Neptune is posited in the 2nd House of Finance. The period of this particular progressed aspect and transit is not a good time for our client to involve himself in financial matters. He should concentrate on domestic matters and delay finances for a later date. He can expect turmoil in his professional life during the duration of the aspect. It behooves our client to employ some sincere restraint in those areas mentioned whenever this phenomenon occurs. It will occur once a year for about 12 days.

   The Progressed Sun forms no other major aspects with Radix Planets in the Zodiac, so our work here is finished. Before we go on to an evaluation of the impact of the Progressed Moon we wish to cover briefly what is called the Solar Periods. They afford the serious-minded astrologer a vitally effective way of considering the transit of the Progressed Sun through the Radix each year.

   As the Sun, in its apparent daily motion, transits through the Zodiac, it moves away from the place it held at your birth, passing through one sign each month and at the end of a year returns to that place corresponding with your birth.

   From 78 to 97 days after birthdate

   From 48 to 65 days after birthdate

   The second major consideration we undertake in the delineation of our sample progression is an evaluation of the Progressed Moon Sign Influence.

   The position of the Radix Moon and its aspects implies that our client has a very bad habit of looking for too much from relationships and then crying when the reality of the situation comes to the fore. His nerves suffer simultaneously with his emotions. One is responsible for the other, and both must be understood. It is important to note that the potential to overcome such difficulties is provided and ought to be utilized. (Note: I recommend that before continuing, you refer back to Lesson XVIII, pp. 12-18, and reread the complete section concerning the Radix Moon Sign Influence.)

   The Moon has progressed to the 11th degree of Virgo in the 12th Home. The impact of the Moon in Virgo can be referenced in Lesson IX, p. 7. The essential precepts of the Moon in Virgo suggest that our client's normal approach to people and affairs is becoming more realistic, and in some respects, analytical in nature. He has conquered his basic phobia of the speech of others, and now realizes that the bitterness of someone's words is only a natural occurrence. Still, whenever the Moon transits (moves through) Sign Libra, he must be careful because this probability haunts him again. He now has a problem of controlling his own criticism and realizing when it is prudent and when it is foolish.

   The placement of the Progressed Moon in the 12th House is of particular interest. This position of the Moon insures a natural and thriving love of the occult and related subjects. It also provides our client with the potential to experience the higher levels of consciousness and touch the deeper levels of his nature. It is an unfortunate position of the Moon insofar as it creates much sorrow and suffering as a result of the back-handed activity of some close friends and associates. He must be very leery of enemies and potential enemies while the Moon is in this house of sorrow and suffering. They can be a source of agony and worry.

   An appraisal of the major aspects formed by the Progressed Moon to any Radix planet portrays the rest of the influence of the Progressed Moon's position. Referring back to Diagram V we discover that the first and most important aspect which the Progressed Moon forms is a square with the Radix Sun. The Progressed Moon is listed in 11 degrees of Virgo in the 12th House and Radix Sun is posited in 16 degrees of Gemini in the 10th House. The aspect can be written simply   11^o  R   16^o Progressed Moon Sign 11 degrees Virgo square to Radix Sun 16 degrees Gemini.

   An application of the Aspect Interpretation Chart enlightens us on the essential characteristics of the aspect.

1) The Aspecting Planets

   The Moon defines our emotional make-up and our reactions to the different situations with which we must deal during the course of our lives. Whereas the Sun is the giver of life, the Moon is considered to be the soul which takes care of that life. The Sun is the authority of our Solar System. It provides existence and energy for everything and without it we would not function. The Sun represents the creative energy and the will to lead.

II) The Sign Position of the Planets

   The Progressed Moon is posited in the Earth Sign Virgo, while Radix Sun occupies the Air Sign Gemini. Earth and Air do not mix cosmically, and therefore the aspect is permeated by elemental discord. The Radix Sun is well placed in Gemini, while the Progressed Moon is not too well placed in Virgo.

III) The Nature of the Aspect

   The vital characteristics of the aspect imply a troublesome period. There is basic elemental disagreement and one of the two planets involved in the aspect also has some singular positional difficulty. However, let us continue our investigation and estimate the significance of the two houses involved in the aspect.

IV) House Influence

   Radix Sun is in the 10th House, and the Progressed Moon is in the 12th House. Referring to Lesson VII we can recall the concepts which fall under the domain of each House.

   The 10th House begins at the point of noon. This House is assigned to all the ways through which our nature is revealed to the world. It signifies things such as parentage, social status, and most essentially the profession which our client will follow.

   The 12th House defines our foundations, together with the subconscious and all that hampers and restricts the power of expression. This is the most unfortunate House of the Zodiac and contains some of the difficulties which one can expect to encounter, particularly as a result of the enmity and unfair competition of others.

   Radix Sun in the 10th House strengthens the overall character development and indicates a tremendous capacity for organization and leadership, indicating that our client possesses a natural ability to successfully handle his own affairs.

   The Progressed Moon in the 12th House indicates that the native's life will be full of limitations and restrictions whenever the Moon transits this House.

   Hence, the Sun is well placed as far as House position is concerned. However, the Moon is not.

V) Influence of Other Aspects

   The Progressed Moon forms one other major aspect with a Radix Planet and two minor ones. First, it forms a major square aspect with Radix Mercury in 17 degrees of Gemini in the 10th House, then it forms two minor semi sextile aspects with Radix Neptune in 13 degrees of Libra in the 2nd House. We are only concerned with the major square aspect which reads P   11^o  R   17^o. As you can note very simply, this aspect is very close to the one which we have just considered for Progressed Moon to Radix Sun. The only difference now is that we are discussing Radix Mercury in 17 degrees Gemini. Here we are simply interested in the basic harmony or disharmony of the aspect, and the effect it renders on the present aspect of our study, Once again, the Progressed Moon is posited in 11 degrees of Virgo which is a Sign of the Water triplicity. Radix Mercury is posited in 17 degrees of Gemini, one degree away from the Radix Sun, which is a Sign of the Air triplicity. Hence, there is a basic elemental discord present within the aspect which further weakens the strength of an already drained Progressed Moon within the major square aspect with the Radix Sun. However, we also make note that Mercury is dignified in Gemini and that this contests the elemental disagreement and affords the Moon a much-needed outlet from the pressure of its present location in 11 degrees Virgo in the 12th House. Essentially it weakens the potential of the Progressed Moon, however, it is not as bad as was originally feared because of the dignification of Radix Mercury.

   The next point we must consider is the position of the Radix Sun, as far as aspect is concerned, within the natal chart. On pp. 10 and 11 in Lesson XVIII we can review the strength provided by the Sun within the scope of the nativity. Fortunately, the overall Radix Sun Sign positional structure is excellent. The complete picture surrounding this beneficial position of the Radix Sun can be easily re-studied, yet for our present purposes we need only note the positiveness of the position.

VI) Duration of Transiting Moon Within the Aspect

   Transits of the Moon are of considerable consequence in deciding fortunate and unfortunate days during the year. It moves quickly and its direct influence determines the daily benefits and problems which our client can expect within his heavenly pattern. When the Moon is passing through any Sign of the Zodiac it incites the prominent and important affairs which come under the rulership of that respective Sign. The result of the transit, on this precept, depends on the condition of that particular Sign in the Radix. If the Ephemeris dictates that the Moon receives adverse aspects, on the day in question, it is pure logic to assume that the tendencies toward the misfortune of that Sign increase on such a day. Thus, if a Sign contained adverse planetary aspect at the time of birth, the Moon transiting through it will always tend to be more or less unfortunate.

   As far as the present transit of the Moon under our consideration, (namely the transit of the Progressed Moon in Virgo through the Arc of Influence, of the square aspect with Radix Sun in Gemini) is concerned, it ignites a number of the negative Virgo characteristics. It causes our client some basic confusion as to when it is prudent to employ his critical faculties and when it is not. The overall strength of the Radix Sun in Gemini provides a substantial outlet for understanding and minimizing the problem. Our client need only employ the services of his fortified Radix Sun to overcome the inherent difficulties caused by the aspect.

   Based on the progression of our client's chart we may assume that this is a short-coming in his character. However, a chart never ceases its progression, and the realization of this incredible astrological phenomenon is a beautiful experience for you. (Since the transit of the Progressed Moon is so significant, it is imperative that you purchase a Moon Ephemeris. No serious astrologer can function without one. It renders the study of the Progressed Moon and its transits so much more illuminating. I recommends McCraig's Moon Ephemeris. It corresponds to the 200 Year Ephemeris and we hold high regard for its simplicity and comprehensiveness. With it you can study the present position of the Moon not only in relationship to the present Progression but also, more importantly, in light of the Radix.)

   It is assumed that by now you have completed and basically delineated your own chart, and that you are enjoying the beauty within your own astrological pattern. When you have your Moon Ephemeris note the Moon's current longitude for any day you wish. Find that place in your own Radix chart and then note what aspects it forms for you. (Remember then, that the transiting Moon moves at the rate of approximately one degree every two hours.)

   Do not confuse the transit of the Moon with the progression of the Moon which encompasses 2 1/2 years in each sign. This concept may seem a little confusing at first, but in actuality it is quite simple. Within the real motion of the Moon there are two separate movements to be considered. The Progressed Moon, which travels through the entire Zodiac once every 29 years spending 2 1/2 years in each sign, and the transiting Moon which takes roughly 2 1/2 days to travel each sign, or approximately 29 days through the entire Zodiac. (The reasons for this difference in motion are the subject of Astronomy. For your purposes just remember that the Moon has two motions - transiting and progressed.)

   When we speak of our client's Radix Moon having progressed into the Sign Virgo, we are talking about the Progressed Moon. The same principle holds true for the Progression of the Sun, Planets, and the Signs. A Progression of this type should be computed at least twice a year to define the major trends and changes within the scope of the Zodiac. The transit of the Sun, Moon, and Planets, however, is a different story and can be studied daily as they, especially the Moon, determine the fortunate or unfortunate days of the year, depending on the aspects.

   It is of no small consequence that you now can fathom the difference between progression and transit. We have expressed the reality of the concept to you very carefully so as not to confuse you. Just remember that there are two separate motions: 1. The progression, describing major changes in a horoscope, i.e. changing of Ascendant, or Sun and Moon Signs; 2. The transits which describe specific events or tendencies, on a daily, weekly or monthly basis. A progression, as we mentioned before, should be computed at least twice a year, while the transits should be studied daily.

   Before we move on to a consideration of the progressed Ascendant, let us briefly analyze the major square aspect between the Progressed Moon and Radix Mercury. Remember that this aspect is very similar to the square between the Progressed Moon and Radix Sun, as Radix Mercury is only 1 degree away from Radix Sun in Gemini in the 10th House in the Natal Chart. This shortens our work within the Aspect Interpretation Chart as we have already determined the positional strength, Sign and House of the Progressed Moon in 11 degrees Virgo. It is only briefly mentioned this time in our aspect consideration.

I) Aspecting Planets

   Since we have already described the basic tenets of the Moon, in the preceding aspect consideration, it is not necessary to repeat it again. The Progressed Moon is in 11 degrees Virgo.

   As to Aspecting Mercury, by referring back to Lesson VI, pp. 17, we can review the major precepts of the planet Mercury. Mercury is the closest planet to the Sun and also the fastest moving of all the planets, as it takes only 88 days to pass through the entire Zodiac. Mercury is the planet of mind, reason, and intellect - it implies intellectual movement and progress.

II) Elemental Sign Position of the Aspecting Planets

   The Moon, once again, is posited in Virgo which is a Sign of the Earth element, whereas Mercury occupies the Air Sign, Gemini. Cosmically, Earth and Air do not mix and hence the aspect creates some elemental problems. The Moon is not too well placed in Virgo whereas, once again, Mercury is in its position of dignification in Gemini.

III) Nature of the Aspect

   Elemental disharmony is structured by the contrasting elemental Sign position of each planet. The Moon is posited in the Earth Sign, Virgo, while Mercury occupies the Air Sign, Gemini. Cosmically, Earth and Air do not mix and thus the resulting disharmony.

IV) House Influence

   The influence of the 12th House, occupied by the Progressed Moon, has already been considered in the preceding aspect and the appraisal need not be duplicated.

   The I0th House, which is the home of Radix Mercury, fundamentally is the House of Profession. (It would do you no harm whatsoever to go back to Lesson VII and reread the entire section dealing with each House!)

   The effect of the Moon in the 12th House has previously been considered. Mercury in the 10th House merely implies that the profession best suited for our client would be one where he can exercise his endowed intellect.

V. Consideration of Other Aspects

   The Progressed Moon is weakened by the square aspect with Radix Sun which we have just considered. The Moon also forms two semi sextile aspects with Pluto in Leo and Neptune in Libra, but the effect of their minor aspects is too slight to affect the potential of the Moon within our present considerations.

   Not only is Radix Mercury in the sign of its dignification, but its plausible capacity is doubly augmented by the harmonious conjunction with Radix Sun in the Nativity.

   It is interesting to note that both of the square aspects formed by the Progressed Moon with Radix Sun and Radix Mercury (even though both have the same essential elemental difficulty) are challenged by the beneficial natal position of both Radix planets involved in the aspects. This shows us that, regardless of the fact that both aspects within the progression create problems for our client, he is most definitely afforded the character to minimize any adverse effects.

   For instance, within the present square aspect under our consideration, it appears that the aspect incites our client not only to misuse his critical faculties, but also to employ his intellectual capacity facetiously to thwart others on the professional level. Yet because of the dignification of Radix Mercury and the positive conjunction uniting Radix Sun and Radix Mercury he possesses the potential to modify and understand these tendencies. Whenever the transiting Moon passes through this aspect with these two Radix Planets this tendency intensifies and must be carefully watched. With your Moon Ephemeris the calculation for the precise days when this aspect occurs becomes a simple yet revealing task.

   At this time we feel that you have been exposed to enough material concerning progressions for one lesson. Your next and final Lesson treats the Progressed Ascendant, Progressed Ruler, and the Progressed elemental chart. The 22nd Lesson also instructs you in the business areas of your profession. How to set up shop, attract clientele, maintain it, and some suggested prices.

   Remember that serious, competent astrologers do not predict events, they merely assess and define the various trends operating at that time. When mentioning potential hazards or beneficial periods, you must always remember to put these matters carefully to your client. You should never state something like this: "You will have an accident on the 21st of the month", but you could say that; "On the 21st of the month you are likely to be somewhat prone to risks, so take additional care when handling hot dishes or sharp knives". Of course this is an extreme example, but you get the idea. You are defining potentials within an individual's astrological pattern; you are not predicting his future.

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