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Timing Events with the Moons Nodes

The North Node of the Moon, both in the natal horoscope and in its transit provides a positive influx of energy and power. It has been
identified with Jupiter and embodies a joining quality. The South Node is akin to Saturn, and may show a point of self-dissipation. It is of a
separating quality.

A planet in conjunction with one of the nodes in the birth chart has the influence of the appropriate node to be either an innate source of
fortune and honor or one of potential mishandling and self-undoing. The South Node points to a place where we perform at a somewhat
unconscious level, meaning the easy execution of natural abilities or taking the easy road and, occasionally reflecting moral deficiencies.

Since the opposing nodes hold different meanings, as they transit the horoscope, they create a double set of aspects. Their conjunction with
an angle or planet, and conversely, the conjunction of a transiting planet with a natal node place a great emphasis on the planet or angle
involved in the contact. The nodes provide timing, and their contacts can be relied on to forecast probable events in keeping with the nature
of the angle or planet transited. Some of the most significant life developments take place when the Moons nodes transit the angles of the
chart.

Following is an outline of nodal contacts and can be referred to whether found in the transits to the natal or progressed chart or in any return
chart.

By considering each of the nodal connections formed in return charts, a considerable amount of substantial material can be found in the nodal
factors alone. In fact, these will often lead the entire chart. Noteworthy contacts in the return chart include not only the transiting node to
natal planet, and transiting planet to natal node, but also transiting node to transiting planet. In the latter case, when the return house and
sign position of the pair is considered, the trend suggested will be quite a dynamic factor for the return period.

Of course, nodal contacts formed in the Solar Return are more powerful than in Lunar Returns, simply due to the length of time the aspect is
in force. Contacts of the transiting nodes to the progressed planets and angles also manifest quite dynamically, and should be considered.
Learn more about your Solar & Lunar Returns with my book, Predicting Events with Astrology. This new edition features four chapters on the
returns that will basically walk you through, one step at a time.

Nodes/Midheaven
As the nodes of the Moon transit across the MC/IC axis, there are usually countering themes involving the areas ruled by the 4th and 10th
houses. Since a conjunction of the North Node to the Midheaven automatically brings the South Node to the 4th house cusp, these transits
will usually show an increase in status and activity runs smoothly in the professional area. There are good relationships with superiors and
authorities and they tend to be especially beneficial at this time. This transit often closely coincides with a new professional position or
promotion. At the same time, things may not be going as smoothly within the domestic scene, thus an emphasis to the outlet of energies
through the professional arena. There may be concerns regarding the parents or family. This time period may coincide with additional
expenses or repairs around the house and could time the illness of one of the parents. Occasionally, this transit reflects a period of deep
introspection as the individual reassesses his or her security foundations.

The opposite transit with the North Node transiting the 4th house cusp and the South Node on the Midheaven suggests an opposing theme.
Here, it is the home front and familial relationships that are progressing smoothly and providing satisfaction, while the professional area is
lacking in some way. This transit often coincides with a fortunate relocation or move. This may be a direct result of the unfortunate situations
arising in the professional area or a lack of career opportunities. Superiors or authority figures may be frowning upon or dissatisfied with the
efforts of the individual at this time. Assistance is likely to come from one of the parents, who are likely to be enjoying fortunate
circumstances.

The 10th and 4th houses are traditionally representative of the parents, with the 10th usually identifying the more authoritative of the two.
However, research indicates that when it comes to the transits of the nodes, the 4th house relates to either parent, with other authority
figures represented by the 10th.

Nodes/Ascendant
When the North Node transits the Ascendant, the individual is in a coming out phase. Personal timing tends to be fortunate, and there is a
knack for being in the right place at the right time. Things begin to click, as there is an air of self-sufficiency, with others responding more
readily to any personal efforts undertaken by the individual. Those born with the North Node conjunct the Ascendant are always noticeable for
these dynamic qualities, and others are quite willing to follow their lead.

At the same time, the transiting South Node on the 7th house cusp shows that others may tend to be somewhat like extra weight to carry,
requiring the individual to take on added responsibilities or burdens. This transit occasionally times a health problem or unfortunate
circumstances surrounding the marriage partner or an intimate. Due to stressful conditions, partners may become moody or difficult to deal
with. Because the individual with this aspect is anxious to move forward on his/her personal interests and projects, any conflicting demands
are more taxing than usual.

With the opposite transit, the situation is reversed. With the North Node on the cusp of the 7th house, and the South Node on the 1st, others
seem to hold the winning hand for the time being. Whether or not the individual is undergoing some personality crisis, he or she finds that it
is not a time for going it alone. Others must be depended upon to a more elevated degree, and it is not unusual to find that there is a very
real dependency issue going on here. Whatever help or support needed by the individual at this time can be found easily, since there are
others around more that willing to lend themselves. This cycle often coincides with meeting a partner who can be of great benefit for some
time to come, and it is not uncommon for marriage to take place with this transit. In general, benefits to the individual will come via the
partner, and these are sometimes quite substantial.

Although these transits frequently bring an emphasis to the marriage partner as the one who either requires or offers the additional support,
this is not a hard and fast rule. It may be some other person or others in general who play this role.

These angular contacts of the nodes usually time the more important events happening in a lifetime, and while the foregoing describes the
general way they will manifest, there are exceptions in which a North Node transit will coincide with unfortunate events and vice-versa. At
such times, there will be other patterns showing in the chart, often involving the nodes themselves, describing this reverse order of things. If
the node is transiting with another planet when it makes one of these natal contacts, those factors must be considered.

Even in the return charts, the periods in which either the transiting or natal node fall on one of the angles suggest a dynamic trend. Events
tend to be more significant and personal than at other times. For example, if the transiting node aligns with the Ascendant of the Lunar
Return, it will be a particularly busy month. The individual is likely to initiate or follow through with a project that is time consuming and
personally rewarding. There will be a need for balancing personal needs with responsibilities to others. In fact, it is a good idea to prepare for
this transit if possible. Beyond this, if a node falls exactly on any other house cusp in the return, the events relating to that house will contain
deeper connotations for the period.

Nodes/Nodes
The conjunction of the transiting nodes to the natal nodes also typically times important cyclic events in the life. These connections reflect
cataclysmic points in time, similar to the previously described angular contacts. While all events linked to the nodes seem to contain an
undertone of karma, these especially point to matters in which others appear to have as much control as the individual in ordering up the
events taking place. It is notably preferable to have the nodes lined up on the natal nodal axis as they were at birth to having them
interchanged in position. The North Node conjunct North Node often reflects forming relationships and fortunate connections, while the South
Node conjunct the North Node indicates broken relationships and unfortunate connections. The latter combination frequently times mishaps,
accidents, and unusual circumstances.

Nodes/Part of Fortune
Aspects linking the nodes to the Part of Fortune are also noteworthy. The North Node with the Pars Fortuna reflects comfortable conditions
and meetings with those who can be of special benefit. It often times a change in trends brought about through this new and fortunate
connection. The individuals timing and choices tend to be right on target for bringing about improved conditions. The opposing South Node
transit usually shows less fortunate circumstances in the living conditions and environment. Support is not only lacking, there may be conflicts
arising that push the individual in a corner. In fact, caution should be applied in forming new relationships at this time since someone from
this group may be found to have major countering interests to those of the individual. Pressure builds in various areas, and the individual is
likely to complicate matters even more through inappropriate choices and unwise decisions.

Nodes/Vertex
The nodes with the Vertex have similar connotations. The nature of the Vertex implies that nodal connections to this point will manifest
qualities similar to those with the Ascendant axis as well as the Part of Fortune. This is because it is a sort of auxiliary Descendant, and
relates specifically to important and seemingly fated encounters, both with people and with circumstances.

Nodes/Midpoint
Another notable contact of the nodes are those that form with the Sun/Moon midpoint. Since this is a point reflecting a male/female
relationship, often the parents as a unit, and is a point of balance of the yin/yang qualities, it frequently signifies events taking place which
affects the family unit. Squares to this point frequently appear to be as significant as the conjunction/opposition.

Nodes/Planets
As the nodes transit the natal planets or transiting planet aspects the natal nodes, events take place according to the things ruled by that
planet and the area it rules in the natal chart. The nodes tend to excite any planet to manifest at its fullest potential and bring an extreme
amount of emphasis to such a planet. The transiting node conjunct transiting planets brings an emphasis to things ruled by that planet. If
transiting a natal planet, the inherent potential of the planet is given more freedom to operate. In this case, the potential of any natal planet
must be considered when judging probable manifestations. The Solar and Lunar Returns should especially be noted for any of these planetary
contacts. They offer valuable detail on the kind of activity that is upcoming, as well as identifying the area of life to be affected and how such
activity will take place. These nodal contacts can be combined with an evaluation of the progressed chart and current transits to determine
more specifically the events coming due.

Outside of the angular placements of the nodes, their conjunction with the planet ruling the natal horoscope is among the most notable of
any. Since the 1st house rules the physical body, a conjunction of one of the nodes to this ruler have been found to coincide with self-initiated
changes in appearance or style. They may also time an illness, operation, or accident.

Nodes/Pluto
Links of Pluto with one of the nodes is quite dynamic. Pluto is associated with new strength in confronting and overcoming limitations while
the nodes also time periods of exceptional strength in facing situations once and for all. Together, they show a time of reckoning with deep
and powerful psychological issues.

Because the nodes are reflective of lunar qualities associated with the domestic environment, paired with Pluto, they often translate into
literal transformations or reorganization taking place within the home or family unit. Circumstances are often somewhat tumultuous in the
home, and/or renovations are taking place. There is a coming to terms with inner needs.

This Pluto link also brings termination and times the closure of significant issues, especially if there have been conflicts of interest. Immovable
force meets with immovable force, and a collision of interests often results in a victory for one and defeat for another. A previous set of
circumstances is rearranged upon a new foundation. Pluto is often involved with the nodes when divorce occurs. Together, this pair is
significant of sexual issues of all kinds and it has been found linked to rape. There are death and rebirth situations, and an actual death could
occur. This combination has been found to be a significant factor in suicides, overdoses, and murder, as well as hold ups, shootings, and other
personal attacks.

These Pluto/node connections are also linked to both kidnappings and forced custodial changes. Relating to reproduction, the pairing may also
coincide with miscarriages, abortions, and vasectomies.

The link of the nodes with Pluto is significant also of new enterprise and of financial matters. The house ruled by Pluto should also be
considered in judging the probable area of life that comes into focus.

In addition to the changes initiated or encountered by the individual with a node/Pluto contact, on a larger scale it can be witnessed to
produce a change in consciousness by the masses when it is the transiting node upon the natal Pluto of a generation.

Nodes/Neptune
Neptune links to the nodes often times the rise of confusing issues, and there is a general lack of clarity over a particular situation. A previous
set of circumstances may have reached a point of dissolve, and new connections are taking place. There are frequently deceptive practices
taking place, and one should question the motives of anyone who comes into the life at this time, keeping in mind that he can only be
deceived who first deceives himself, a quote from Jean Jacques Rousseau. It is also a time when the individual is more likely to deceive
another, or to break the trust of another, even though the decision to do so may seem totally justified at the time. This is possibly the major
downfall associated with Neptune, and ones own judgment should be questioned and reviewed under this combination.

Neptune rules liquids and large bodies of water, and these aspects have been found involved with everything from serious roof leaks to living,
working, or vacationing on a beach front property. As noted earlier, the connections of the nodes with Neptune may time a period when drug
or alcohol issues come to the surface. This particular combination is also quite prevalent when thefts and robberies take place. A few years
ago, the two were transiting close together for some time. During that time period, it seems that all around, people were having their cars
stolen, they were getting robbed and/or losing valuable items.

Even with the foregoing, Neptune should not be considered an unfortunate contact, and it often times remarkable events in which important
dreams materialize. It means the erasing of boundaries between the real and the fantastic, which makes this possible. To quote St.
Augustine, Miracles are not contrary to nature, but only contrary to what we know about nature. The intuition is stronger, more reliable and
often right on target. These connections also show a time when inspiration acts as a catalyst to profound artistic accomplishments. This is a
spiritual combination, and may coincide with the transcendence to a higher spiritual level through meditation, dream work or other altered
states of consciousness.

Nodes/Uranus
A virtual plethora of possibilities exist when the nodes come together with Uranus. Events are always unexpected and come about suddenly or
out of the blue, in keeping with Uranus characteristics. There are brief encounters with those who can lift one to extraordinary heights, or
dash one into the depths, and these most frequently have their repercussions upon the public reputation of an individual. It is not a good time
to take unwise risks if it means subjecting the reputation to negative criticism or ruin, for this is quite likely to happen with this aspect. For
that reason, it frequently times the unexpected loss of a job or scandalous attacks to the reputation. Those who have been honest and
adhered to ethical codes in their actions and dealings need not worry about this. These configurations are often present when a freedom issue
arises. This may be the loss of freedom; literally, as in incarceration for a serious crime, or a black mark against one to reflect a lesser crime.
Conversely, the same pair has been found to time sudden popularity and fame.
Chance encounters are common, and they can usually be counted on to be quite significant, one way or the other. Typically, relationships
begun with this aspect tend to be temporary, erratic, a source of upset, or short-lived, but they have a definite purpose. Once this purpose is
carried out, the relationship comes to an abrupt end, although not necessarily on a sour note. Uranian activities are prominent with these
aspects, and an interest may develop or opportunities open up in areas such as astrology, electronics, or advanced technologies. The house
position of Uranus can help to pinpoint the area of focus.

Nodes/Saturn
Concerns and events may revolve around an authority figure or someone of advanced age when Saturn and the nodes are linked. This is
occasionally a parent, but more frequently there are issues with an authority figure. This may be a boss, judge, business associate or
someone else of advanced rank and knowledge. Such a person may be a source of loss, or impose delays and restrictions. Actually, the
limitations encountered are not nearly as serious as the individual takes them at this time, and situations tend to smooth out nicely in the
long run.

For purposes of stability, there is nothing better than the conjunction of Saturn and North Node. Both relationships and enterprises begun at
this time are likely to be durable and long lasting, and this is especially notable in marriage and professional areas. The individual is willing to
take on heavier responsibilities and the added commitments will prove favorable. The Saturn conjunction to the natal North Node is said to be
particularly karmic in nature, bringing due rewards for past efforts. There is much truth to this, and it often coincides with terrific upward
professional progress, as well as stabilizing influences in general. If Saturn turns retrograde and passes over this point two or three times,
these rewards can be expected at each contact. The alternate transit of North Node to Saturn works in a similar fashion. If rewards do not
transpire, it may be time to scrutinize ones previous efforts.

Saturn with the nodes may time extensive dental work, periods of colds or flu and bowel problems.

Nodes/Jupiter
Jupiter, as the greater fortune does indeed time the periods of greater material assets when combined with the nodes. This combination is
often noted when material and financial increase occurs. However, these contacts usually time a period of additional expenditures as well, and
the added income is sometimes necessary to cover these. Over-expansion is also a notable characteristic of Jupiter, and this contact may
time a cycle of exceptional monetary risks. Heavy financial losses may be the result, although there is usually someone nearby who is willing
to bet on the abilities of the individual to pull through and will often lend a helping hand. Even when facing the material setbacks occasionally
signified by this contact, the individual will usually make fortunate strides in his or her philosophical beliefs as a direct result of the
experience. If one does not benefit materially, then benefits will be of a spiritual nature. This combination also tends to be somewhat social in
nature and generally brings one in contact with those of an honorable reputation who will act as a catalyst to spiritual or financial growth.

Weight loss or gain has been associated with this pairing, with much depending on which of the nodes are involved and any linking
configurations. Jupiter with the nodes has been noted in horseback riding accidents and leg injuries. It has also been found to time long
distance moves and long distance travel, and to be influential in publishing ventures.

Nodes/Mars
Mars with the nodes is the most dynamic for action of any other planet. Mars holds some similarities to Pluto in regards to new enterprise,
except with Mars, the individual initiates the activities taking place. An example of the type of new ventures is seen in our recent exploration
of the planet Mars itself. During the time that the US surface scanner, Sojourner, was on its way to Mars, Mars itself turned retrograde,
spending several months within a conjunction to the transiting North Node. At the time that Mars again reached its original stationary
retrograde position and formed a conjunction to the North Node of the Pathfinder enterprise chart, the scanner landed on Mars. The entry into
new territories and the pioneering activity of Mars is quite evident in this historical event. The fact that it was Mars itself being explored is
exemplary!

Mars with the nodes give the courage to follow through on new ideas, and striking out one ones own, however there is more of a tendency to
take risks. Caution should be applied to the types of risks taken since the combination also attracts law enforcement officers. The recent
Mars/node conjunction timed numerous citations for speeding and reckless traffic violations for many individuals in whose chart the pair
contacted the natal Mars. For several personal acquaintances, two or more citations were received within days of each other. With these
contacts, tremendous energies come bursting forth in an effort to maintain the personal identity. Mars is also the most often noted link to the
nodes at the times of accidents, due almost exclusively to sudden careless actions. Confrontations are very likely to surface with this
connection and there are increased mechanical breakdowns and malfunctions, also notable in the recent Pathfinder exploration.

Nodes/Venus
Venus combinations with the nodes usually time pleasant events of a social nature, celebrations, meeting with friends and fortunate
circumstances in general. They are exceptional timers for childbirth and any related social events, such as baby showers, and post birth
visitations. Since Venus signifies affections and attachments, these combinations also reflect a focus on ones children in their later years.
They reflect an involvement with women and their interests, including finery, beauty salons, bridal preparations, flowers, and all things
feminine and lacy. They may signify romance, marriage, and they frequently time the concern for a loved one.

Nodes/Mercury
Mercury with the nodes usually promises an accent on movement. It may signal an actual move, but more frequently times either major or
minor concerns with vehicles, occasionally coinciding with a traffic accident. Travel plans are made and tickets purchased. A secondary theme
suggested by the pairing is issues surrounding communications and agreements. These tend to take on added importance, and there is an
increase of important news personal in nature. Important discussions and negotiations take place. In relation to both these themes of
Mercury, it is a good idea to check the overall chart and to consider which of the nodes is involved in the contact to Mercury. Before issuing a
statement in writing or signing papers of any kind, think things over at length first. Extra awareness in any communications at this time can
help to prevent serious misunderstandings. Mercury sometimes signifies events relating to young people, and for that reason may sometimes
reflect issues surrounding children; either ones own or others.

Nodes/Sun
The nodes combined with the Sun hold a similar meaning as the nodes on the angles of the chart, especially the Midheaven axis. There are
frequently locations or job changes. If it is the South Node on the Sun, this change may be due to lack of opportunity in the current location
and a phase of bottoming out. Relocation taking place at this time frequently work out very well.

Unless there are conflicting themes, the contacts of the nodes with the Sun can generally be counted on to bring favorable conditions,
benefits and the potential for progress and promotion. This is more likely with positive North Node contacts to the Sun. Important
acquaintances are made and anyone coming prominently into the life at this time should prove to be quite beneficial, often leading the
individual in the direction of bigger and better things. There are fortunate encounters and other discoveries, and financial matters usually
improve. The nodal contacts to the progressed Sun are just as dynamic as to the natal Sun.

Nodes/Moon
The Moon partakes somewhat to the nodal contacts to the Ascendant axis, and signifies events quite personal in nature. Similar to the
Ascendant tie, this frequently times a period of favor, popularity, and an exceptional amount of support from others. It is especially noted
when public support is received. Just as important as a nodal contact to the natal Moon is its contact to the progressed Moon. In fact, the
latter contact sometimes appears as the more dynamic of the two.

Events centering on the home and family take on added importance and these contacts especially relate to qualities of nurturing and
mothering. Often someone enters the life at this time that plays a nurturing role. This is likely to be a woman and relationships with women
tend to be most significant. At other times, this contact may show a time when a nurturing individual leaves or the relationship comes to an
end. These node/Moon links also coincide with the birth of children and events surrounding offspring. This contact has been noted as a factor
in various accidents and in cases of drowning. As in all the nodal contacts, the North Node will more often reveal a joining quality in these
matters, while the South Node indicates a separating quality.

If you liked this article, youd probably enjoy my book Lunar Nodes, which is a complete reference on the lunar nodes; from aspects in the
natal chart, to transiting aspects, to finding compatibility between two people based on nodal aspects. Predicting Events with
Astrology includes more about the Nodes of the Moon as well as Eclipse factors. My book, Identifying Planetary Triggers includes a table of
nodal positions to 2050.
This article was first published in the April 1998 issue of Dell Horoscope. Dell Horoscope, all rights reserved.

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