A total eclipse of … the Sun in Sagittarius
This week brings our last eclipse of the year. We will see a total solar eclipse on the 14th December 2020 at 11:16:26 (4:16pm UK time) at 23° Sagittarius 08′. A total solar eclipse is created by the perfect alignment of the Sun, Moon and Earth causing the Moon to completely block the Sun from Earth. When this occurs, Earth is engulfed in a shadow cast by the moon. The alignment also coincides with a new moon and indicates that the moon is closest to the ecliptic plane. Because this alignment is so rare, we only experience one to two total solar eclipses a year. While this solar eclipse will only be visible only in parts of South America, there's a good chance you'll feel it. During the temporary block of the sun’s light, we can feel a sense of disconnection from our reality, within ourselves and the world at large.
Considered both awe-inspiring and terrifying in the past, our ancestors simply could not fathom how the sun could vanish from the sky. Legends to explain the phenomenon typically revolved around the idea of the sun being eaten by some unearthly figure. In Ancient China, a story from 2136BC tells of giant dogs or dragons that would appear in the sky to eat the sun. In an attempt to scare them off, the people would bang drums and try to make enough noise to make the creatures scarper away. The Vikings had a similar noise-making tradition. In their version, the wolves, Hati and Skoll, appeared to devour celestial beings. Scaring the wolves away was crucial to their survival as it was believed in that Ragnarok, the end of days, would would take place once Hati and Skoll had eaten both the moon and sun.
Astrologically, the Sun represents our truest selves at the core. As we mature, the years slowly reveal our solar-driven qualities. As such, the sun acts as a personality organisation tool; our sun signs filter all of our experiences, both internal and external. The moon on the other hand is the organiser of our instinct and our opinion of self. When these forces come together in a solar eclipse, the light of the sun (or life force in this instance) is blocked by the moon (our instincts) to reveal the consequences of past actions and decisions. Open and honest reflection may be the only way to move forward once faced with the challenges of disruption that the eclipse brings to the forefront. With the eclipse taking place under Sagittarius, it will be one to celebrate with an optimistic and resilient vibe. Combined with the moon in Mercury, the planet of communication, at this time, this eclipse is marked by a combination of mental and emotional energy. Put your passions into words and explore the personal growth Sagittarius so highly values.
Eclipses have been referred to as Cosmic Change Agents. Given the infrequency of the total solar eclipse, we feel its presence sharply when in our midst. Whereas lunar eclipses take place under a full moon, the solar eclipse is only experienced under a new moon, signifying this chance for a fresh start. These events activate the unexpected and force us into action. This is the chance to clarify your intentions, long-term plans and goals. A ritual during the eclipse is the perfect way to kick those into gear. Visualisations, journaling, articulating your ideas to someone you trust are simple ritualistic practices to make this happen. If you need a little inspiration and guidance though, you can always check out our Moon Ritual Kit for the perfect solar eclipse celebration.
Words: Holly Westwood