(8 December 2024) This week could bring further fallout of the retrograde cycle of Mars. Mars stationed retrograde last Friday, December 6, at 12 degrees of sidereal Cancer. The absence of any forward motion may have intensified Mars’ energy and thus provided the planetary spark to the collapse of the Assad government in Syria this weekend. Mars is the bringer of war, of course, so it is not surprising that its stations should coincide with clear expressions of military action and open conflict.
Mars is debilitated in Cancer and this may be another reason why its more violent side may come to the fore during this retrograde cycle. More conflict is likely this week as Mars will oppose Venus on Thursday, Dec 12 and align closely with Mercury on Sunday, Dec 15. The Venus-Mars opposition suggests intense relationship dynamics which may or may not involve conflict. Sometimes this pairing can produce lively social interaction, and in romantic contexts, can heighten sexual activities. Since Venus-Mars aspects are often positive for athletics and sports, recreational activities may be especially rewarding this week.
A more constructive Mars-Mercury alignment will be within range through the week although it will be closest next weekend just as Mercury stations direct. Mars-Mercury tends to accelerate thinking and speaking and is a good pairing for many kinds of analytical and intellectual ventures. The late week Mars-Mercury influence could therefore prove beneficial for all manner of business meetings and appointments.
There remains some underlying tension as Jupiter approaches its square alignment with Saturn. While Jupiter isn’t fully aspected by Saturn according to Vedic aspecting rules, there is nonetheless some damage inflicted on Jupiter as the repository of optimism, trust and confidence. With this square due to be exact on Dec 24, we could see continued uncertainty surrounding the foundational assumptions of society. In a more positive alignment, Jupiter and Saturn complement each other as faith in the future is rooted in strong sense of tradition. When Jupiter and Saturn form more tense aspects, however, these opposing energies do not work harmoniously. Thus, Saturn’s need for order and permanence may be at odds with Jupiter’s self-confident, open-mindedness. The result is often a loss of tolerance and empathy and a greater emphasis placed upon traditional values and personal responsibility.
As I’ve noted previously, this Jupiter-Saturn tension is an apt reflection of the new agenda of the incoming Trump administration. Trump wants to usher in a more radical approach in Washington, although many of his cabinet picks have been opposed by centrist Republican Senators would prefer to do business-as-usual. It remains to be seen how many of Trump’s nominees will receive enough votes to be appointed. For now, RFK Jr, Tulsi Gabbard, and Pete Hegseth are looking like longshots.
For example, RFK Jr’s horoscope is very afflicted in early January as Mars moves back across his Ascendant and opposes his Mercury, just as it lines up opposite Pluto. His nomination may come under even more intense scrutiny in the first week of January as his Mercury gets hammered by both Mars and Pluto. And to make matters worse, Ketu will cast its 5th house/120 degree aspect to his Mercury at the same time. Frustration and hostile actions are likely to coincide with a setback for him at this time. I would not be surprised if he is forced to withdraw his candidacy.
