Transformation Sparks Hope

The Lunar Wheel of the Soul
In celebration of the New Moon in Leo on August 20, 2009, I have decided to share the magic and mystery of the sacred rhythm of the Moon phases. I have connected a Tarot archetype to each Moon phase so that you connect with an image associated with each Moon phase. Each month our Moon passes through eight lunar phases. These phases are named after how much of the Moon we can see, and whether the amount visible is increasing, or decreasing each day.

The phases the Moon cycle through are caused by two things: 1) the Moon revolving around the Earth, and 2) the Moon reflecting sunlight towards the Earth.  Half of the Moon is always lit, not just the portion we see;  however, sometimes we only see a profile of the lit portion of the Moon. The Moon’s orbit is responsible for the phase changes we see.

A New Moon phase offers the opportunity to begin watching the Moon gain light in the sky each night. Today the Moon is new and this means that it is at its darkest phase. It is like a giant seed planted in the heaven preparing to blossom into light and a new monthly cycle.

Each phase of the Moon is a mirror our human emotional needs. On a collective we note the New and Full Moon phases to gauge gardening and planting cycles. We can also use the Moon calendar for personal and career planning. The Moon phase reflects the timing of the lunar dance which opens the way for personal reflection and illumination.

The New Moon — August 20, 2009
During a New Moon we can see NO portion of the Moon’s surface that is lit.  We see only the dark side of the Moon.  This typically marks the beginning of the Lunar Cycle which lasts 29 ¹/₂ days.  The Moon is between the Earth and the Sun in its orbit.

Nurturing our Connection to the Primal Flow of Life
During this stage we are responsive and receptive to the soul of Gaia, The Earth Mother, as She offers a template for rebirth. We purify our emotions, re-align our bodies and reconnect with the living forces of dreams. This is a time to advance once again upon the Wheel of Life refreshed, cleansed and prepared for new choices and opportunities.
Tarot Archetype: The Fool

Crescent Moon
Extending Toward New Light

Waxing Crescent
During the Waxing Crescent phase, we see on the right side a small sliver of the lit Moon.
We begin this phase by recognizing our new ideas and impulses and prepare to plant the seeds of new potentials into the fertile terrain of our life. Our inner eye extends outward as clarity increases, showing the way forward. At this stage we can clearly see the beautiful crescent of light in the sky which, metaphorically, cracks open the seed of the Moon again.
Tarot Archetype: The High Priestess

First Quarter Moon
Building Visions and Dreams
During the First Quarter phase, we see the right half of the lit Moon.  The Moon and Earth are now “side-by-side” in their orbits around the Sun.

The First Quarter Phase of the Moon represents a time in life when one is beginning to fully manifest their work in the world and embody the grace of being alive. This phase develops courage, intention, discipline and focus. The trials of the physical body teach us to surrender, endure and accept. We literally come to our senses as we experience the joy of physical existence. Tarot Archetype: The Magician

Gibbous Moon Phase
Gathering and Preparing for Illumination
During the Waxing Gibbous phase, we see almost the entire right side of the lit Moon.
At this phase one is able to learn from the experiences of life, and by doing so, continue to evolve, adapt and transform. The mind grasps the basic lessons it needs to continue the quest toward fulfillment. One is gathering new information. The motive is to move outward, to extend the energies toward learning. This is not a time to waste time or procrastinate. You must continue forward with your goals and plans.
Tarot Archetype: Wheel of Fortune

Full Moon Phase
The Fulfillment
During a Full Moon, we see the entire half of the Moon surface that is lit.  The Moon is positioned behind the Earth and Sun.
The soul needs to listen to life purpose and shine the inner light of inspiration into studies, work, service and personal relationships. Finding life purpose often means breaking away from limiting beliefs in order to actualize a destiny. This phase addresses the ability to give back to family and to the world at large.
Tarot Archetype: The Sun and The Moon

Disseminating Moon
Offering the Gifts of Manifestations to Others
During the Waning Gibbous phase, we see almost the entire left side of the lit Moon. This is a time to develop a deep satisfaction with all that has been gained. The illumined light of the Full Moon is now pouring outward, giving and teaching all that has been found within. Share your gift, sing your song, stand in the world and be one with passion. Create ritual, join in ceremony and tip the chalice and let the joy pour out.
Tarot Archetype: The Star

Third Quarter Moon
Completions and Rewards
During the last Quarter phase, we see the left half of the Moon lit.  The Moon and Earth are now “side-by-side” in their orbits around the Sun. Life opened the door to a wide band of experiences in the previous phases. Now the soul must check into the terrain of the subconscious at yet another level of evolution and awakening. The descent into darkness is a necessary element in the soul’s evolution. One must face the inner truth of actions and life behaviors.
Tarot Archetype: Judgment Card

Balsamic Moon
During the Waning Crescent phase, we see on the left side a small sliver of the lit Moon. This phase offers an internal spiritual light that shines within. At this level one must veil the outer sense of self and take the time to explore the mystical regions of one’s true nature. It is a time of quiet receptivity… and endings. One nears the time when the New Moon will once again crack open the way for rebirth.
Tarot Archetype: The Hermit

This entry was posted on Thursday, August 20th, 2009 at 10:29 am and is filed under Planets, Tarot, Divination, Astrology. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.