Full Moon Total Solar Eclipse in Taurus/Scorpio

The Taurus lunar eclipse is a total eclipse, bringing brief moments of complete obscurity of the Moon. Whilst in ancient times eclipses were thought to be deeply ominous, we have a variety of interpretations open to us in modern times, partly thanks to the added focus of branches of psychological astrology. We could, for instance, interpret the eclipse as showing a respite from some of the regular concerns that grasp our attention — maybe Taurean-specific issues, such as worry about economic security. But relief may be on the way that improves a practical situation, or at least clears up some confusion about the matter.

Even so, we should not ignore that in this lunation, Mercury and Venus in Scorpio also oppose the Moon conjunct Uranus in Taurus. This feels quite weighty, with those planets alongside the Sun in intense Scorpio. The opposition adds a sense of “odd one out,” increasing an undertone of someone being singled out — or at least feeling that way.

Being different can be exciting, but at some basic level it can also mean that we fear exclusion. What if other people don’t get us or have an issue about whatever makes us unique? Yet the innovative sides of Uranus make it quirky and refreshing. Perhaps our task is to uphold value for what we don’t yet know intimately — whether towards others or for some aspect of our own nature.

In practical circumstances, the Moon–Uranus conjunction smacks of something coming out of the blue, and the surprise element is magnified because of the eclipse. There’s the bolt that we didn’t see coming! If Uranus is the planet of upheavals and innovations, though, what is it that merits a shakeup in our lives and the world? And where can we sense a glimpse of breakthrough? These facets are almost sure to become visible eventually — and the story to make more sense, even if we can’t quite take in every detail straight away.

With a Taurus Moon, comfort can be something we reach for automatically, perhaps through food, drink, sex, or affection. Yet there may be reasons why, under the total eclipse, this process cannot be fulfilled in quite the same way that we are used to. Since Venus is in opposition, it might be that a partner’s change of diet, for instance, affects the food choices we also make. Or that they are going through a process that makes physical contact tricky for a while. And even though it might be our habits that get a shakeup whilst alongside another — it’s the “for a while” part that is probably the significant factor to remember!

Mercury’s opposition to the Moon could mean that we really do have to put rational concerns above those that relate to our intuition and heart. We manage to let our head talk us in circles over a particular issue or we are persuaded by the engaging speech and arguments of another. Since Scorpio is occupied by Mercury, it could be that something quite crucial is at stake — and so we go with the popular argument, rather than rely on more personal instincts.

What mediates this set of oppositions is Saturn, squaring both ways from Aquarius, making this a fixed t-square (fixed signs Taurus, Scorpio, and Aquarius, all locked into this pair of 90° angles). Saturn is extra firm in that sign, underlining rules and regulations and outlining its boundaries — yet it’s fair and seeks to include the best interests for all. Maybe we can respect its age-old wisdom, alongside its keenness to include some facet of modernity. Basically, Saturn is trying to keep up with the times and harness the energy of new trends. Ultimately, we may be glad for how it has managed to do so, even if we must endure a wait or a sense of limitation for the time being.

This article is from the Mountain Astrologer by Diana McMahon Collis