An Independent Research Report.
By Jonathan W. Martin.
12th June 2006.
CONTENTS
I. Abstract
II. Glossary
III. Introduction
IV. Belfast’s Image
V. The Heart of the Matter
VI. Planetary Transits & Riotous Outbreaks
VII. A Timeline of Troubles
VIII. Conclusion
IX. Appendices
X. References
I. Abstract
Many human civilizations in the past have held the belief that signs in the heavens can forewarn of impending and unfolding events on Earth. This report aims to identify cycles, trends and common themes in Belfast City’s astrological chart, by correlating planetary transits and aspects with several key dates, relating to the Troubles of the late 20th Century and into the first decade of the 21st Century. In doing so, we may identify any astrological indicators for potential increases in terrorism and violence, as well as those factors associated with the ceasefire and ongoing peace process.
II. Glossary
Ascendant: The astrological Zodiac Sign that is ascending, or rising, on the Eastern horizon at the moment of birth.
Aspect: a relationship, or link, formed between two Planets by specific angles of degrees, e.g. 60°, 90°, 180°, etc.
Birth Chart (also Natal Chart): an astrological chart created for the location and moment of birth, showing the positions of the Sun, Moon, Planets and Zodiac Signs, as seen from a geocentric viewpoint, i.e. Earth, acting as a blueprint to an individual’s life (see also: Event Chart).
Conjunction: one of the major aspects in an astrological chart, when Planets are between 0°-10° apart. Exact at 0°. Indicates fusion, joining, working together.
Event Chart: an astrological chart created to mark the beginning or birth of a place or event, similar to the chart drawn up at the moment of an individuals birth
Ecliptic: The apparent linear path that the Sun takes across the sky, as viewed from Earth. Constellations appearing along that path, extending a few degrees above and below the ecliptic line, are collectively known as the Zodiac. This is known today as the Sidereal Zodiac.
House(s): various systems used to divide an astrological chart into 12 distinct sections, each governing a particular area of life, which the Planets and Zodiac Signs occupy. Many different systems exist and the size of each House varies considerably based upon the system used and the latitude of the birth/event location.
Opposition: a major aspect formed between Planets that oppose one another, i.e. 172°-188° apart. Exact at 180°. Indicates opposing views and methods, with potential for reconciliation and compromise.
Sextile: a major aspect formed between Planets that are 54°-66°. Exact at 60°. Indicates easy flow of energy, support, effort required for a positive outcome
Square: a major aspect formed between Planets that are 72°-98° apart. Exact at 90°. Indicates tension, struggle, obstacles or challenges to be overcome.
Stellium: a group of three or more Planets in Conjunction, usually occupying one Zodiac Sign and House. Indicates a concentration of energy and a focus on the Sign(s) and House(s) occupied.
Transit: the apparent movement of the Sun, Moon and Planets through the Signs and Houses of a chart.
Trine: a major aspect formed between Planets that are 112°-128° apart. Exact at 120°. Indicates harmony, balance and a relaxed attitude.
Zodiac: a Greek word, meaning ‘band of animals’, referring to the imaginary belt that runs across the sky containing star constellations.
Zodiac Signs: referring to the 12 Signs that make up the Western Zodiac, which are Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius and Pisces. (Zodiac Signs are named after constellations but are different).
Planet Key for Chart Diagrams:
III. Introduction
From the late 1960's until the 1990's, Northern Ireland experienced an ethno-nationalist and political conflict, known locally as the Troubles, between Irish Nationalists/Republicans and British Unionists/Loyalists. Only at the end of the 20th Century did relative peace return with the signing of a multi-party agreement ( the Good Friday or Belfast Agreement), in April 1998 - a significant development in the peace process and a major turning point in the conflict. Consequently, 21st Century Northern Ireland is a vastly different place and now almost unrecognisable from its violent past. Belfast, its modest capital, is now back on par with other Irish and UK cities, indeed European capitals, improving at a vast rate courtesy of foreign investment, regeneration and a booming tourist trade because of the enduring peace. In the summer of 2005, however, Belfast experienced a rather unexpected outbreak of intense rioting.
In order to make astrological forecasts and identify patterns and correlations, a Birth Chart - or Natal Chart, is required. This is a chart of the heavens, or more precisely the Solar System, from a geocentric viewpoint at a specific time and location on Earth. This chart shows the positions of the Sun, Moon and planets, as viewed from Earth, in relation to 12 seasonal Zodiac Signs, always beginning with Aries on the Northern Hemisphere's Spring Equinox (around March 21st each year). This is known as the Tropical Zodiac - the most prominent zodiacal system used primarily in the Western world today, which derived from 12 constellations along the Ecliptic (also known as the Sidereal Zodiac, still primarily used in some Eastern astrological traditions). Astrological Charts are often calculated for the exact moment of an individual’s birth (Natal or Birth Chart), creating a personalised guide on character development and probable cycles and trends that may be experienced during that individual's lifetime. Similarly, Event Charts may also be created for specific incidents, places or the timing of events, such as the founding of towns and cities.
The Belfast Charter states that Belfast was bestowed City Status on 5th November, 1888, by Queen Victoria. The time of an event (or birth) is crucial for calculating accurate trends and cycles and for a city, this might be the moment its Charter is signed. However as this information is unknown for Belfast, it is common practice to take the time of 12-noon. Alternatively, the time may be rectified by considering different Chart possibilities for the day of the event and selecting the most accurate representation. Thus, having calculated a 12-noon Chart for Belfast followed by several others with varying times {See Appendix 1}, the 11:50 AM Chart appears most apt {See Figure 1}.
By studying the transits (movements) of each Planet in a chart, notable incidents can be identified and related to those Planets - and their aspects (the apparent relationship between Planets). Noting recurring transits and aspects can then be used to identify future trends and likely outcomes.
With an agreeable Astrological Chart for Belfast, the city's image and story quickly comes to light in its cosmic blueprint. But does it reveal the province's turbulent past?
IV. Belfast’s Image
Belfast City Astrological Chart. 5°55W, 54°5N; 5th November 1888, 11:50 GMT.
Fig.1. Belfast City Birth Chart
{The outer wheel depicts the 12 Zodiac Signs while the inner symbols represent Planets; the 12 divisions are the astrological Houses and the coloured lines show aspects formed between Planets. See Glossary.}
The 11:50 AM Chart for Belfast has a Capricorn Ascendant. In astrology, the Ascendant represents image, one's physical appearance or how something is presented to the world. Prior to conducting this research, a recurring motif had been identified on various buildings around Belfast with striking resemblance to a sea-goat - the mythical creature that depicts Capricorn in the Zodiac (half-goat, half-fish). Astrological themes have been incorporated into the architecture of other cities, most notably Washington D.C., therefore it could be possible that imagery of the sign of Capricorn had been included in the urban fabric of Belfast, representing the city's Ascendant. Furthermore, this motif appears on the Belfast Coat of Arms along with the Latin inscription: ‘Pro tanto quid retribuamus’ (‘What return shall we make for so much’). It is, in fact, the depiction of a seahorse, said to represent Belfast’s maritime heritage. {Appendix 2}. Although this may be mere coincidence, it is interesting to note that a seahorse - the closest living creature to Capricorn’s mythical sea-goat, features heavily in Belfast’s architecture when the city has a Capricorn Ascendant. Additionally, other astrological symbolism can be found in Belfast City Hall, including depictions of the Zodiac signs in the central dome.
Concisely, a Capricorn Ascendant can be said to denote a serious, traditional, sombre or hard-working image. In Belfast’s Chart, the planet Mars is also rising (conjunct the Ascendant angle). Mars’ fundamental astrological portrayal is the Planet of conflict and war, as well as passion and productivity. It is also related to anger, violence, competitiveness, risks and impulsiveness. So we could say that Belfast expresses a traditional, industrious image but one that is also solemn and quite stern (Capricorn) yet Mars adds a zestful and more youthful approach, coupled with entrepreneurship and competiveness, as well as the infamous traits of aggression and violence. Mars forms a telling Square aspect to Uranus, in the 9th House. The Square indicates tension, struggle and obstacles, while the 9th House governs many areas but most notably, in this case , religion; Uranus represents (amongst many other things) rebellion, freedom, independence and disruption. It is common knowledge that Belfast’s notorious Troubles are fuelled by religious rivalry, two passionate sides fighting for their perceived version of freedom and independence; the Mars-Uranus in 9th House Square captures this drama perfectly. Capricorn is Ruled by Saturn in astrology, which means it is the Ruling Planet for Belfast and a key factor in the Chart. We find Saturn in Leo and the 7th House, forming a Sextile aspect to Uranus (the Sextile is a supportive and encouraging aspect). Leo is something of a dramatist, with a tendency to exaggerate or embellish and so, combined with Uranus, this indicates the sensationalised depiction of Belfast as a war-like place, while the 7th House rules over all kinds of relationships, including known or open enemies.
Already, a clear picture is beginning to emerge of just how accurately the recent history and image of Belfast is portrayed in its Chart. This is the primary reason I elected the 11:50 Am time for the creation of Belfast's Chart, as this places Uranus in the more relevant 9th House.
V. The Heart of the Matter
Clearly, this is all but a perceived image of the city and its Troubles. To get to the heart of the matter, we must consider the placement of the Sun, which represents the inner nature and true character of an individual or place.
Belfast’s Sun falls in Scorpio, a sign related to many characteristics such as privacy, secrets, mystery, intensity and passion. The Sun also falls in the 9th House, so we could say that the general attitude of Belfast is one of discretion, a brooding and clandestine populace that is intensely passionate, especially where religious beliefs are concerned (shown by the 9th House emphasis). With Mercury (communication) also in the 9th House, religious themes are likely to permeate the higher mind of the population - a source of endless discussions and debate. This is a deeply ingrained subject in Northern Ireland, important and highly regarded amongst the people, even to the point of bigotry, fundamentalism and a rigid adherence to traditional views and practices, signified by Capricorn’s stern approach and its ruler Saturn (rigidity,) in boisterous Leo, supporting (Sextile) the explosive 9th House Uranus.
Scorpio's modern Ruling Planet, Pluto, will also play an important role in the Chart (as well as the traditional co-ruler, Mars, already significant by its placement next to the Capricorn Ascendant). Interestingly, Pluto can be found in a prominent configuration. Falling in sociable Gemini, it forms a series of Oppositions (another ‘harsh’ aspect) to a Stellium in the 11th House, that is, a group of close planets - in this case consisting of the Moon, Jupiter and Venus, in Sagittarius. The importance here is that Pluto is a ‘generational planet’ in astrology, so that its relevance extends over a longer period, signifying larger groups of people, as opposed to individuals. The fact that Pluto is involved in such hard aspects is imperative in making sense of the Troubles, as reflected in Belfast’s Chart.
Firstly, Pluto deals with major transformation and regeneration, powerful crises and extreme upheavals - the birth-death-rebirth cycle. The Opposition aspects formed to the Sagittarius Planets in the 11th House bring together community, politics, groups and organisations with the Sagittarian characteristics such as philosophy, religion, candidness, freedom and exploration, all very appropriate for a city that is heavily involved in complex political, societal and community issues. The Moon is also associated with the public and so is strongly placed in the 11th House and its opposition to Pluto reveals how the public image of Belfast, especially within the local community, is of intense Plutonian crises and upheavals, further supporting the war-like image of Mars on the Ascendant. Pluto’s placement in the 5th House does not initially appear very relevant, as the 5th governs areas such as children, games, sport, creativity, love affairs, risks and gambling. But we could say that Pluto here indicates continual and powerful transformations through the children of Belfast, that is, with each generation comes another upheaval, through their new perspective and different views, which contribute to the city’s continual regeneration. Pluto here could also be indicative of grave risks, with devastating consequences for the city, as a whole - or taking great risks to rejuvenate the city. These would likely be related to political issues, debates, elections, gossip and rumours, associated with the 11th House, but also Gemini, the sign, which Pluto occupies.
Next, let us incorporate the Chart Ruler, Saturn, into this configuration. It supports the 11th House Stellium of Planets by forming a Trine aspect. Typically, a Trine is interpreted as harmonious, however, when combined with Pluto's Opposition it can exacerbate tensions and conversely indicate unhelpful support. Saturn represents boundaries and limitations, sometimes literal, so it is not surprising that we find it supporting the 11th House of local communities in Belfast's Chart. Saturn sits in the 7th House of relationships and agreements, exchanges and enemies, bringing into focus the restrictions and difficulties felt by the people in making agreements and commitments with one another, as well as the severity of hostility between the various communities. In Leo, Saturn’s limits and restrictions become more rigid (a Fixed Sign) as well as exasperated and embellished by Leo’s dramatic tendencies. Leo is Ruled by the Sun, which forms a tense Square to Saturn from its 9th House residence, thereby presenting more innate challenges for Belfast, in tackling and overcoming the obstacles indicated by Saturn.
Belfast has an infamous history of being a religiously divided city, with vast and ironically named ‘peace walls’ erected in many areas to keep apart the warring communities. Initially, these walls (represented by Saturn) where put in place to support communities, by preventing attacks and retaliations. This is a prime example of how the Saturn Trine becomes unhelpful due to Pluto's Opposition. Jupiter, one of the 11th House Planets in Trine to Saturn, is related to greatness, expansion and drama and so coupled with Saturn’s position in Leo, is a good indication of the drastic actions that necessitated the walls and also their expansiveness across the city. Jupiter is also in Opposition to Pluto, contributing to problems related to Saturn’s dividing peace walls. Most of the walls were eventually torn down, as well as often being targeted in attacks (Pluto is associated with destruction). The Jupiter-Moon Conjunction, in Sagittarius and the 11th House, shows how this action deeply affected the local communities, some of whom preferred the walls for their sense of safety and protection. The city is still a divided one in places, even without most of the original walls. Paradoxically, Pluto’s Oppositions in Belfast’s Chart may actually signify the potential to destroy old and outdated methods, such as the peace walls, to be replaced by the new and improved.
Next, we will consider planetary transits in Belfast's Chart in relation to specific incidents.
VI. Planetary Transits & Riotous Outbreaks
When making astrological forecasts, the transits (or perceived motions) of the Sun, Moon and Planets are calculated and compared to the positions of the Natal Planets in a Chart. The aspects formed between these two sets are then interpreted. As the Sun takes one year to move through the Zodiac, it will occupy approximately the same position (or degrees) in a Chart at the same time each year. Consequently, we can expect to find repeating patterns, or themes, related to the Sun occurring around the same time each year. Of course, many other Chart factors are typically considered and making astrological forecasts based solely upon the Sun is very simplistic (such as the infamous ‘Star Sign’ columns in the media). However, it may be used for the purpose of more generalised forecasts, such as in the following example.
The 12th of July (and surrounding period) is perhaps the most notable annual event in Northern Ireland with potential for trouble (although not always on the same scale) Therefore we should expect to find recurring transits and aspects for this period, relating to the Sun's position. Indeed, every year on July 12th we find the transiting Sun in a significant position in Belfast’s Chart – occupying the Sign of Cancer and the 7th House. It forms a Square Belfast's natal Uranus position, in the 9th House. The 7th House, as mentioned previously, focuses on relationships and known enemies, while some negative Cancerian traits are clannish, pugnacious, defensive and capricious (the focus on negative traits is for the purpose of this example). Clannish is an ideal word for this case because Northern Ireland has a long history of warring clans, that is, the Protestant and Catholic divide. Combine this with a tense, challenging Square to Uranus and we have the rebellious and disruptive behaviour, sometimes sudden and shocking, concerned with religious issues (9th House) and the fight for justice (Uranus is in Libra, the Sign of fairness, equality and justice). And so, every year in Belfast, we have a sound astrological indicator of the 12th July and its potential for trouble.
Logically, one might then assume that Belfast is indefinitely doomed to experience trouble every year on the 12th July. However, we must remember that many other Chart factors come into play besides the Sun. The transiting Sun will always form a Square to Uranus, in Belfast's Chart, on July 12th - but in one particular year, Pluto could form a tense aspect to Mars, for example, creating greater disturbance, while in another year Venus could form a harmonious aspect to Saturn, thereby signifying less severity. There is also the matter of the Progressed Chart. Essentially, this is the evolution of a Chart over time, which coincides with natural growth, learning and a change in behaviour, attitudes, beliefs and so on. In a Progressed Chart, each natal position of the Sun, Moon and Planets is moved forward, or progressed, by one degree for every year following the date of the Chart’s creation. Therefore, although natal Uranus is in Libra and the 9th House for Belfast, it will gradually progress into following Signs and Houses, as the years pass - and the same for every Planet. In Event Charts, progressions coincide with key developments and changes and so perhaps, when the Planets in Belfast’s Chart have progressed out of orb for certain aspects, this will coincide with moving on from such recurring troubles. For now, let us consider some crucial instances of trouble and their astrological indicators.
Case Study A: The Ardoyne Riots, 12th-13th July 2005.
Fig.2. Belfast City Chart & Transit Chart for 12th July 2005 (The Ardoyne Riots)
{The innermost symbols show the natal positions of the planets, while the outer symbols show the positions of planets for the incident date. The outermost symbols are the Zodiac Signs.}
Referring to the Belfast riots of Summer 2005, which inspired this report, we'll consider the Transit Chart for the dates when most severe rioting occurred {See Figure 2}. Tense aspects formed by the transits of Mars, Uranus and Pluto are typical indicators of discord in an astrological chart. Together, these Planets and their harsh aspects suggest intensity, aggravation, conflict, power struggles, instability, revolt and so forth. In this particular case, Jupiter's association with amplification and excessiveness may also be highlighted. Therefore, transiting planets forming aspects to both Mars and Uranus, in Belfast's Chart, would signal the most likely incidents of rioting and violence, with transiting Mars suggestive of more fleeting, albeit ferocious, incidents (due to its faster orbit and therefore short-term aspects). Transiting Uranus would signal a rise in more rebellious and disruptive behaviour long-term, while Pluto in aspect to the Mars and Uranus would signify a major crisis or upheaval. As mentioned, Jupiter in aspect to these planets could indicate the embellishment of matters.
Uranus is prominently placed in Belfast's Chart, falling in the Sign of Libra, associated with justice, harmony, balance and diplomacy while occupying the 9th House of religious beliefs and concerns. It also forms a tense Square aspect to the prominently placed Mars. Together, they can be taken as a key indicator of the rebellious, anarchic and disruptive behaviour of the people - their primary driving force being freedom and independence from perceived oppressive authorities. The Uranus-Mars pair are therefore likely to indicate trouble when in aspect to, or activated by, transiting Planets. In Fig.2., we see transiting Jupiter is in Square to natal Mars (in the 1st House, Conjunct Capricorn Ascendant - Belfast’s image). This Square indicates anger, violence and conflict, while Mars’ conjunction to the Ascendant suggests the rioting will be visible or publicised. Furthermore, transiting Mars is travelling through its home Sign of Aries, related to impulsive action, careless risks, intense passion and so forth. It is also in the 3rd House of media and communication, forming an Opposition to natal Uranus. The Opposition aspect is a conflict centred on differing opinions and views, which invites a balance or compromise to be reached. However, with transiting Jupiter in Square to natal Mars, the likelihood of conflict is increased. Additionally, transiting Jupiter is moving into Conjunction with Uranus, suggesting a dramatic display of unruly and rebellious action, related to religious matters (9th House Uranus).
Meanwhile, transiting Uranus is in the 2nd House of values and feelings. Here it forms a Square to Belfast's Moon and Jupiter, in the 11th House. The 11th House governs community, politics and issues relating to society, groups and organisations – such as the divided communities and paramilitary organisations infamous throughout Northern Ireland. The Moon represents emotions, reactions and also the public and collective emotional displays (further emphasised here by its House placement and Conjunction to Jupiter). Jupiter, as mentioned, embellishes and inflates everything, good and bad. And so we can deduce that the political values of each community appear threatened or challenged now - and the impulsive reaction is to rebel, on a large scale, particularly the paramilitary organisations and local communities.
Pluto is associated with major crises and upheaval, usually resulting in death (both literal and metaphorical), transformations and rebirth. It is brought into play here by its natal Opposition to Jupiter (activated by the transiting Uranus aspect). Pluto, interestingly, is in the 5th House for Belfast and the Sign of Gemini, both related to children, young people and the joy of youth. This may seem unfitting at first, but rioting in Belfast is notorious for youth involvement and many are enthralled by the conflict, their riots almost akin to competitive sport. Even though transiting Uranus is in Square to Belfast's Jupiter, a long-term aspect, it is nonetheless a contributing sign when coupled with the more fleeting Mars transits.
Below is a summary of the relevant transits and aspects for this incident.
This produces a very apt depiction of the Ardoyne riots. The war-like image (natal Mars Conjunct Ascendant) was portrayed rapidly (transiting Mars in Aries) as severe and serious (Capricorn Ascendant) by the media (3rd House Mars in Gemini). The depicted was of a sudden escalation in frenzied rioting in the community (Jupiter-Uranus Conjunction and Uranus Square 11th House Jupiter). However, there are two sides to every story and indeed to every chart interpretation.
Let us now consider these transits from a positive perspective. Firstly, returning to the Mars-Uranus Opposition, although it indicates tension, this aspect also suggests a need to reach a settlement over the religious clashes. Uranus’ Sign placement, Libra, would not normally hold much weight in an individual’s Birth Chart (as it spends many years in one Sign, symbolising a generation), but it can be given greater emphasis here in relation to a specific event. Libra, then, supports the Mars-Uranus Opposition by representing the desire for justice and mediation. Next, consider transiting Jupiter; as well as challenging aspects, it also forms a Sextile to natal Jupiter, in the 11th House, which in turn receives a Trine from natal Saturn. These are supportive and harmonious aspects, suggesting that the local communities (11th House) are not going to tolerate such incidents and are very eager (Saturn in Leo) to resolve the issues through perseverance and commitment to forming stable relationships (7th House).
Transiting Uranus is in the 2nd House and Sign of Pisces, suggesting that the feelings and values (2nd House) of those involved in the rebellious action (Uranus) can be soothed by compassion, understanding and forgiveness (Pisces) to overcome the anger and frustration that fuelled the rioting (transiting Mars). This activates the natal Mars-Sun Sextile aspect, encouraging the people of Belfast to take this matter to heart (Sun) and put their energies into confronting (Mars) the religious issues (9th House), with integrity and harmony (natal Uranus in Libra). And finally, transiting Mars is also in Trine to natal Saturn (in 7th House), which also receives a Trine from natal Venus (in the 11th House). Saturn is one of the most stable Planets in astrology, representing endurance, permanence and perseverance. And so the harmonious Trine from transiting Mars shows how the relationships between the enemies (7th House) can be managed with these qualities in mind, in order to ease the tension and resentment over time (Saturn), coupled with the natal Trine from Venus, adding an affable element to the healing process.
From this example, it is evident that the transiting Planets indicative of unrest also form aspects declaring the potential for resolution. Uranus, Mars, Jupiter and Pluto are all key indicators of trouble in Belfast's Chart yet, through their positive aspects (and joined by natal Sun, Venus and Saturn), they may also indicate the potential for accord. This is not to invalidate one or the other but to show that the Birth Chart is merely a map of potential events and outcomes, brought into reality by our own actions, choices and free will – that is, ultimately we determine how events unfold.
Below, a summary of the positive aspects and placements for the Ardoyne riots of 2005.
Case Study B: The Whiterock Riots, 10th - 11th September 2005.
Fig.3. Belfast City Natal & Transit Chart for 11th September 2005 (The Whiterock Riots)
Again in 2005, a parade by the Orange Order (a Protestant institution) that was due to be held on the 25th July, was postponed until September 10th. This resulted in some of the most serious rioting Northern Ireland had witnessed in years, which brought Belfast to a standstill and sparked further widespread incidents. {See Figure 3}
Just two months after the July 2005 Ardoyne riots, transiting Jupiter had moved into an almost exact Conjunction with Uranus, thereby intensifying this aspect - a sign of the more severe violence that took hold. However, this moved Jupiter out of orb for the Square aspect to natal Mars. Interestingly, transiting Mars had moved into a Square with natal Saturn – replacing the previously harmonious Trine between these two Planets. In general, challenging aspects between Mars and Saturn often coincide with times of violence. And with Belfast’s Saturn in the 7th House of relationships and known enemies, this fuelled hostility and the notion of rivalry.
By extension, transiting Mars was beginning an Opposition to Belfast's Sun and thereby activating the natal Square to Saturn, intensifying the strain. Indeed the clashes at Whiterock were extremely ferocious, with many people seriously injured and the rioting appeared to have a greater effect on the heart of Belfast, with chaos brought to the city. Mars is associated with literal fire and countless arson attacks were part of this spate of rioting, with cars and shops burnt out across the city. Mercury rules everyday transport and in this chart, we can see that its transit during this period formed a Square aspect to the natal Jupiter and Moon, as well as a wide Square to chaotic and devastating Pluto (in the 5th House), indicative of the many young people again involved in the attacks. The harsh aspects to the Moon and Jupiter, in the 11th House of communities, is symbolic of the extensive destruction to buildings and vehicles across the province.
Again, transiting Uranus is also prevalent in this chart by forming a Square to natal Jupiter, indicating more dramatic upheaval. It has also moved into a tighter orb for a Square to natal Pluto, signalling the disruptive behaviour of the rebelling masses and greater destruction. Looking back to transiting Mercury’s square to Jupiter, from the 8th House of fears and death, there is also a Conjunction by the transiting Moon to natal Jupiter. The Moon represents the emotions and reactions of the public, exaggerated here by its close contact with dramatic Jupiter, while Mercury ruling transport and communication shows how both of these public services suffered gravely. Numerous protests and riots flared up across Belfast, in particular, creating blockages and delays along arterial routes and jamming mobile networks, as thousands became stranded and tried to contact family and friends, in a bid to get home or escape the city. It was also reported that several ringleaders had been using mobile phones to send text messages, with instructions to incite more violence amongst youths (Mercury Square Pluto in 5th House). Mercury’s Square to natal Jupiter also signifies the widespread use and reach of mobile phones to incite and spread violence, while transiting Saturn Square natal Mercury indicates obstacles (in this case literal), as the hindrance to transport and communication affected everyone, with many businesses forced to close early and the main shopping and leisure facilities in the city effectively shutting down.
Below is a summary of the main astrological indicators during this period; note Mars’ increased involvement in the more serious violence of this incident.
VII. A Timeline of Troubles
This timeline shows selected key dates of several more recent events in Belfast’s history, including rioting and ceasefires, as additional examples of astrological indicators in the Belfast Chart. The purpose of this timeline is to elucidate those specific aspects, Houses and Planets that recur at times of conflict and key turning points in the peace process. For example, it is evident that Uranus and Square aspects are always present during conflicts, while Venus and Trine aspects are prominent at times of peace; the 9th House is forever highlighted. A brief explanation is provided with each case.
VIII. Conclusion
It appears that several key Planets, aspects and transits recur in Belfast’s Astrological chart during times of conflict and violence, acting as indicators of civil unrest. Likewise, certain factors seem to be prevalent at times of peace and reconciliation. It appears that Belfast’s Chart repeatedly exhibits the potential for both positive and negative outcomes during these times, which imperatively confirms that people’s free will is the ultimate determining factor in the actual unfolding of events.
It is evident that the Planets Mars, Jupiter, Saturn and Uranus and Pluto all play a major role in Belfast's Chart, particularly in relation to forecasting times of upheaval and strife and when the Square and Opposition aspects are prevalent. Jupiter is also important for indicating harmonious times, as is Venus but also Saturn, Uranus and Pluto, when the positive Sextile and Trine aspects are formed. These Planets can signify the potential for constructive reforms, transformations and enduring peace. The 9th House is important for Belfast, as the House of religion and foreign lands, emphasised due to the Sun’s presence, the heart of Belfast, as well as the key indicator of the rebellious, freedom-seeking nature of the populace, Uranus. The 11th and 7th Houses are equally as important because they represent the strong community presence and the emphasis on paramilitary organisations (the 11th House, featuring a Stellium), as well as the relationships between enemies, the negotiations and agreements, all vital in aiding a peace process. Finally, the Zodiac Signs themselves lend insight. Scorpio is the Sign of Belfast, its characteristics manifesting in the city’s hidden past and intriguing culture, while the Ascendant Sign of Capricorn can literally be seen around the city itself - Belfast’s image. Libra, in the 9th House, shows the potential for peace, harmony, justice and diplomacy, while Leo (7th House) often expands upon situations and sometimes embellishes and exaggerates events. Sagittarius, in the 11th House, may represent the desired freedom and unwavering optimism of the two religiously divided communities in attaining their goals.
Ultimately, the Astrological Chart for Belfast is best used as astrology should be – a tool for insight, guidance and clarification. The Planets, Signs, Houses and aspects that make up an astrological chart produce a symbolic map, with many different routes, each having its own set of challenges and rewards. In this sense, astrology can be valuable for self-development, or in the case of Belfast, as a trustworthy guide to the city’s growth and progression. And perhaps as a means of preparing for potential trouble while encouraging hope and optimism for a brighter and more peaceful future.
IX. Appendices
Appendix 1.
(A) Midday/Noon Chart for Belfast City.
With a Midday Chart for Belfast, note how Uranus now occupies the 8th House while the Moon occupies the 10th. This would necessitate a vastly different approach to interpreting the Troubles in Belfast.
(B) 11:30 A.M. Chart for Belfast City.
Even varying the time by 20 minutes produces noticeably different results; the Sun is now in the 10th House and the Ascendant Sign borders on Sagittarius/Capricorn.
(C) Midnight Chart for Belfast City.
Casting a Midnight Chart for Belfast creates an entirely different horoscope. The Ascendant now borders on Leo/Virgo and most of the Planets occupy the lower Houses, including the Sun and Uranus. Interpreting this chart in relation to the Troubles would paint a very different picture and the significance of the Capricorn imagery would be irrelevant.
Appendix 2.
The ‘seahorse’ symbol and Coat of Arms can be found at the following locations in Belfast; note the resemblance to the goat-fish of Capricorn.
The Seahorse:
i) On pillars outside the Ulster Hall.
ii) Large mosaics on the ground in Corn Market.
iii) 8-meter tall stainless steel sculpture at Dargan Road.
iii) On various small ‘pillars’ around the main shopping district {commonly a small gold or silver relief}.
The Coat of Arms:
i) The logo for Belfast City Council; e.g. visible on litter bins across the city.
ii) Above the doors of the building on the corner of Waring Street & North Street (across from the Northern Whig).
iii) On the wall above the ground floor/first floor escalators in Boots the Chemist, Royal Avenue outlet.
{There are most likely other locations featuring the Seahorse symbol and Coat of Arms}.
X. References
The following list of books and websites may provide further reading and research on the subjects covered in this report.
Books:
Peter Whitefield (2001)
Astrology, A History.
London, The British Library
Richard Tarnas (2006)
Cosmos & Psyche: Intimations of a New World Mind.
London, Penguin Books Ltd.
David Ovason (1999)
The Secret Zodiacs of Washington D.C.
London: Arrow
Julia & Derek Parker (1991)
Parkers’ Astrology (New Edition 2001).
London: Dorling Kindersley Ltd.
Web Links:
END.
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