Moon - the Cosmic Mother

The Moon is the Cosmic Mother. Solar energy incubates under her care prior to its being concretized in material form. There is a close relationship between the Moon and the growth of life-forms on earth. The procreative processes of plants, animals, birds and human beings are deeply affected by the Moon. Our emotional responses and intellectual capabilities are intimately linked with it. In fact, in the psycho-physical constitution of human beings, its influence is so great that the Sun itself is subordinate to it. The practice of casting natal charts with the Moon as the Ascendant arises from this special significance. Water is the progeny of the androgynous Moon. The Sun is the giver of life to the whole universe while the Moon is the giver of life to our globe. Energizing life on earth, the Moon shines in the borrowed robes of her master. Astrologically, the Moon strengthens any planets associated with her except Saturn, which stifles the blossoming life-energy at every level.

She is passive, womb-like, protective, strengthening the growth of her progeny, taking interest in every action of her child. She is mortally afraid of the death of her child but proud of its blossoming in every aspect of life: sex, marriage, progeny, education, profession, social relations, illness, fame; nor is she interested for her own sake but for the sake of the child itself. When her attention is withdrawn or when Saturn's affliction becomes acute, we experience difficulties. The Moon is like the mind, difficult to define but essential for any kind of growth and development; it is like water, which, in association with heat from the Sun, nourishes the plants and enables them to bear fruit, Astrologically, the Moon represents the vital energy that provides the capacity for growth: it signifies the mind, mother, house, conveyances , pearls, and silver. Tranquility of mind as well as peace and harmony in human relationships and life in general are associated with a favorable disposition of the Moon.

The Moon, being associated with consciousness, has the gift of detachment even as it nourishes the emotions and strengthens the life-force and animal passions. When the Moon is strong, she radiates the sympathies of a mother: whatever the behavior of her children, she never feels humiliated by them. Individuals who are guided by the Moon encourage the growth of others and are very much concerned with the welfare and prosperity of human society as a whole. Their driving impulse comes from wisdom and love. They display the quality of self-illumination, a sense of oneness and universal brotherhood. Their philosophy is similar to Buddhism, exemplifying compassion for all. Such individuals get their principles well-coordinated without much difficulty. Their problems in life arise from the more personal aspect of the mind represented by Mercury, and from sloth and lethargy as indicated by Saturn.

The most important relationship of the Moon is with Jupiter. Under Jovian influence, the Moon can express its beneficial influence easily. An association with Mars enthusiasm and activity; with Venus, the Moon becomes refined, sociable and interested in a well-ordered existence. The Sun devitalizes the Moon, who is better when farthest away from the other luminary, i.e., during Full Moon. Rahu and Ketu inflict karmic impediments and much frustration.

The placement of a strong Moon in the Fourth house, which represents the heart, the depth of one's being and material comfort, is very beneficial. In other houses, its effect will be conditioned by any accompanying factors. Wherever one finds the Moon, its most important features are changeability, swiftness of motion, and an influence the psycho-physiological constitution of the individual. The Moon is concerned with the pure mind (as distinct from intellectual understanding) which harnesses Divine energy for worldly use while at the same time creating the veil of illusion which is Maya. It nourishes the earth its bosom like a mother.

The Moon has affinity with marshy places, clothes and jewels. It is associated with the rainy i.e., the middle of July to the middle of September. It likes salty flavors. Permanently dwelling on the subjective plane of existence, the Moon needs the influence of a concrete, practical planet to harness its energy and irrigate other levels of consciousness.