Astrology Karma & Transformation

Astrology Karma and Transformation by Stephen Arroyo, was published in 1978, and revised in 1992. The premise for this work is understanding astrology as a tool for spiritual awareness and especially emphasises the transformative power of astrology. The author writes in the first chapter how he was disappointed in the quality of thought and discrimination, objectivity and spiritual awareness exemplified in ancient writings and in modern day astrologers work.

Stephen Arroyo is inspired by astrologer Dane Rudhyar, and his philosophical and spiritual approach. The book has 12 chapters which nicely illustrate the twelve astrological signs. The first chapter discusses Karma and in closing he offers advice on astrological counselling.

The universal law of cause and effect is pondered and Arroyo says: "It's obvious that no one who plants thistles can expect to harvest roses. For each action there is an opposite and equal reaction." He also implies that the universe will fall into disarray without this state of balance. In this effect,  karma may relate to reincarnation, in order for mankind to learn spiritual lessons of love, patience and moderation.

The author looks at karma through ancient traditions and echoes Liz Greene's thoughts in 'Saturn a New look at an Old Devil', he too believes that self-knowledge is the key to freedom and decreases the effect of karma (Saturn). The water houses, in Arroyos view, deal with the deepest yearnings of the soul, and he quotes Richard Ideman, for his  pioneering concepts in relation to the water trinity, he says: "The water houses can be indicative of various types of fear: fear of returning to the helpless childhood state (IV), of social taboos (VIII), and of chaos (XII).

The following chapters look at transformation and Pluto along with an examination of all the outer planets. Aspects in the natal chart and the Asc and Midheaven are also studied. Overall, this a thought provoking and insightful piece of work. Astrology Karma and Transformation, focuses upon the harvesting and sowing aspects of astrology, and the key to transformation may begin when one takes responsibility for cultivating the astrological garden. Reap what you sow...