Sun
Aries or Ascendant Aries
Combined with a Ray 2, Personality or Ray 2 Soul
Michael D. Robbins © 2003
II. Sun
Aries or Ascendant Aries, R2P or R2S (Plus Constellationally Transmitted
R1 and R7: (This, in general, is a somewhat contradictory indication.
No significant mutual reinforcement of ray and astrological energies
emerges either constellationally or through the rays usually
considered as transmitted through the ruling planets. A rather weak
reinforcement may be considered as present because the second ray is
transmitted through the Sun, the ruler of the second decanate of Aries.
Also, second ray Jupiter is a co-ruler of the first decanate {in esoteric,
counter-clockwise order} and the third decanate {in exoteric, clockwise
order}. Perhaps the exaltation of the Sun in Aries may, indeed, reinforce
second ray qualities, for those with this combination. The “Ram” must
become the sacrificial “Lamb of God”, slain, for the sake of others,
“from the foundation of the world”. The exaltation of the Sun can be
likened to the Resurrection Initiation {the seventh}, in which the second
ray energies of Love-Wisdom dominate. Perhaps, considering the sum of
all the various sub-influences, we could say that the overall R2 reinforcement
is mild.)
(a)
(Selfish, Self-Centered or Self-Serving Human Being):
i. The naïve narcissism of the selfish,
self-centered Aries person combines with the permissive
indulgence induced within the insufficiently spiritualized
personality by the second ray. (These undesirable qualities would be in
the nature of a relapse or reversion to a formerly bound condition, as it
is not possible to have a first or second ray personality unless one is
at least an aspirant. The first or second ray may, however, enter the personality
by other lines of influence.)
ii.
Naïve disregard of boundaries. One who “cannot contain” himself.
iii. Not knowing where one belongs. (Saturn too weak).
iv. Allowing
oneself any whim or pleasure.
v. Promiscuous—too eagerly affiliative. Indiscriminately rushing into
attachment: “Let form again be sought”. The ‘seeding’ tendency expressed
through lower love.
vi. Shameless and unrestrained “love of being loved”.
vii. Overestimation. “Biting off more than one can chew”.
viii. Thinking “too big”, too inclusively.
ix. Over-expenditure of personal energies. Profligacy.
x. Indiscriminately
active.
xi. Unreasoning positivity. Foolishly hopeful expectation.
xii. Conflicts between approach and avoidance. Desiring to rush in
and yet being afraid of the consequences due to second ray fear of impact.
(b) (Advanced
Human Being; Aspirant; Disciple)
i. Eagerness
for the new, characteristic of the advancing Aries individual
combines with the induced within the spiritually unfolding personality
by the second ray.
ii. Exuberant
positivity. Believing in the limitless potential of the human being.
iii. A winning optimism. The glass is always “half-full”. Life is
positive and invites immediate participation.
iv. “Good spirits”. Jaunty cheerfulness.
v. Trustingly embracing new experiences. A strong sense of the “goodness
of life”.
vi. Sometimes caught between sensitivity (second ray) and the urge
to rush forward (Aries).
vii.
Liberal expenditure of energy.
viii. Generously outgoing giving of oneself.
ix. “Hope springs eternal in the human breast”.
x. The “new” is always better than the “old”.
xi. A readiness to “forgive and forget” and thus move forward into
the future.
xii. On
the Path of Discipleship: eagerness for the light.
xiii. On the Path of Discipleship: the rising (Aries) of the Christ Force
(second ray).
xiv. On the Path of Discipleship: recognition that love renews all experience.
xv. On the Path of Discipleship: holding the possibility of the upliftment
and redemption of all beings. The attitude that everyone always has a
chance to be restored.
(c) (Advanced Disciple; the Initiate)
[Additionally,
where relevant, combine Ascendant Sign, Aries, with the second ray as
either the ray of the personality or soul. For initiates under
monadic impression and on the second ray in one of their periodical vehicles,
if the point opposite the Sun Sign is in Aries, it may be considered here]
i. A
dynamic radiation of the Life Aspect characterises the soul-infused
disciple/initiate born in or under the sign Aries, combines with
a great positivity induced within the soul or spiritualized
personality by the second ray.
ii. The bringer of new life and new light.
iii. Great generosity of spirit/soul.
iv. Willingly undertaking initiatives of love.
v. First to sacrifice for reasons of love.
vi. The
thrill of loving-being poured forth from the heavenly worlds—regardless
of circumstances and conditions.
vii. Inspiring and attractive magnetism—life and love
united. Symbolically, the Sun/Son of God is exalted.
viii. The ability to inspire people to see new possibilities. Persuasive
but not overbearing.
ix. Sacrificially offering oneself without hesitation. The joy of
sacrifice if love is sufficiently powerful.
x. Rising over all adversity because of love.
xi.
The triumph of love (and wisdom). “Love conquers all”.
xii. Loving all unconditionally. Seeing all united within a state of
being.
xiii. Love as the cause of resurrection into life.
Ray
Lord Names which may Apply to this Combination
1.
The Opener of the Door
2.
The Liberator from Form
3.
The Power that touches and withdraws
Because Aries is the sign/constellation through which the first ray is expressing
itself most powerfully at this time, many of the names for the First Ray
Lord do not correspond well with this combination of energies, involving
as it does the second ray.
Qualifications
which Relate
to the Combination of Aries and R2
1.
Inspirer
2.
Motivator
3.
Encourager
4.
Teacher of the New (bringing forth new perspectives and doctrines)
5.
Provider of Opportunity
6.
Scholarly Synthesizer
7.
Strengthening with Positivity
Directives
for Disciples and Initiates
Equipped with Aries and the Second Ray
(On
Behalf of Humanity and the One Great Work)
1.
Accelerate the Growth of Consciousness and Understanding2.
Act Immediately Upon Spreading the Ageless Wisdom
3.
Affirm Comprehensive inclusiveness
4.
Assert the Beauty of the Divine Pattern
5.
Be Assertive in Saving and Salvaging
6.
Be Daring in the Expansion of Consciousness
7.
Be First in Giving
8.
Be First to Bless
9.
Be the One
10.
Begin Building
11.
Burst Forth with Revelation
12.
Come Forth Expressing Love-Wisdom
13.
Come Forth with Compassion
14.
Declare the Value of Unity
15.
Direct the Dissemination of Spiritual Education
16.
Do Not Hold Back in the Expression of Empathy
17.
‘Enfire’ Attraction to the One
18.
Emerge, Sharing the inner Vision
19.
Emphasize Group Unity
20.
Enunciate Detailed Unity
21.
Expend Great Energy in Revelation
22.
Hasten to Initiate Loving interplay
23.
Immolate Attachments
24.
Incinerate the Bonds to Multiplicity (to All but the One)
25.
Initiate Blessings
26.
Initiate Relationship
27.
Insist Upon an Attitude of Caring
28.
Launch Educational initiatives
29.
Lead towards Group Unity
30.
Make Haste with Carefulness; “Make Haste Slowly”
31.
Pierce New Dimensions for the Sake of Illumination
32.
Pioneer New Methods of Expanding Consciousness
33.
Plunge into the Ocean of Light and Love
34.
Proclaim the Ageless Wisdom
35.
Promote Hierarchy
36.
Push Forward in Scholarly Endeavors
37.
Send Forth with Power—Loving Thoughts
38.
Sound the Keynote of Right Human Relations
39.
Spearhead the Development of the Teaching
40.
Smash Against the Forces of Darkness and Ignorance
41.
Start the Process of Sharing
42.
Thrust Forth the Light
43.
Undertake the Act of Blessing
Mantras for Aries and the Second Ray
Mantram
for the Disciple’s Consciousness:
I seek to see and then reveal the shining Oneness of All Being.
Mantram for the Initiate’s Consciousness:
I See the Greatest Light Ablaze within the Oneness of All Being.
Proposed Symbol/Image/Scene for R2/Aries: Focussed in the center
of a radiant Lotus, the Scholar/Teacher heralds to an ignorant and darkened
world a vigorously new, inspiring all-inclusive vision of the Oneness
of the Whole.
Discover Potentials to be Derived from
Energetic Contrasts Between Aries and R2
Utilize these contrasts
to understand how these two energies may contrast or conflict with each
other when they are found together within the human energy system.
| Aries |
In
Comparison With |
R2 |
| 1.
Transmits
R1 and R7 constellationally |
|
1.
R2 |
| 2.
Transmits
principally R6, R4, and R7 through its planetary rulers |
|
2.
R2 |
| 3.
Colors:
carmine red (or scarlet red) (given by D.K.) and possibly (on a
hypothetical color-scale incrementally related to the chromatic
musical scale) red, red-orange, orange. |
|
3.
Colors:
Indigo blue, sapphire blue, light blue |
| 4.
Note:
DO or C |
|
4.
Note:
SOL or G |
| 5.
Expresses
through the crown center, and secondarily, via Mars and Mercury,
through the solar plexus and ajna centers |
|
5.
Expresses
through the heart chakra; the “heart in the head” and also through
the spleen as solar prana on our planet |
| 6.
Creative
Hierarchy II, liberated |
|
6.
Creative
Hierarchy number II/VII, unliberated |
| 7.
Hypothesized
as especially expressive in relation to the Mineral Kingdom, the
Animal Kingdom and the Kingdom of Solar Lives. |
|
7.
Related
to the Vegetable Kingdom and the Kingdom of Souls |
| 8.
Identification
with Father and the Son |
|
8.
Identification
with the Mother and the Son |
| 9.
Full
of assertion |
|
9.
Full
of receptivity |
| 10.
Strenuously
forcing |
|
10. Magnetically
inviting |
| 11.
Conflictual |
|
11. Placating,
ameliorating |
| 12.
Active |
|
12. Passive
or more economical with motion |
| 13.
Full
of rapidity |
|
13. The
“wise use of slow action” (EP II 142) |
| 14.
Bursting
forward |
|
14. Steadily
moving ahead |
| 15.
Synthesizing |
|
15. Unifying |
| 16.
Identified
more with Electric Fire and Fire by Friction |
|
16. Identified
more with Solar Fire |
| 17.
Identified
more with the Life Aspect |
|
17. Identified
more with the Consciousness Aspect |
| 18.
Experiential—plunging
in |
|
18. Studential |
| 19.
Impatient |
|
19. Patient |
| 20.
Standing,
dancing, leaping |
|
20. Sitting |
| 21.
Scattering
seed |
|
21. Nurturing seed |
Discover Potentials to be Derived from
Energetic Similarities Between Aries and R2
Utilize these
similarities to further understand how these two energies may combine with
or reinforce each other (for better of for worse) when they are found within
the same energy system.
A. Connected to the “Son of God”:
While the energies of Aries and those of the second ray are highly contrasted,
they share a connection to the “Son of God”. The second ray, of which the
Sun is a strong transmitter, is always connected with “God the Son”—the
second aspect of divinity. Aries represents the “sacrificial lamb”
(also the “Son of God”), “slain from the foundations of the world” (cf. EXH 268-269). Further,
Aries represents the “scapegoat”—again, the one who is sacrificed, reviled,
and driven into the wilderness. The Christ (in the West, the great Representative
of the second divine aspect) is known as the “scapegoat”.
B. Exaltation of the Second-Ray Sun:
The Sun (distributor of the second ray—both through its soul and personality)
is exalted in Aries, thus revealing a powerful connection between this sign
and the second ray.
C. Connected to Sanat Kumara: Sanat
Kumara, the Lord of the World, has many names. When He is called the Eternal
Youth, a name suggesting the sign, Aries, is used. This Eternal Youth is
(despite his obvious first ray associations) a great Representative on our
planet of the second ray of Love-Wisdom, coming from the Solar Logos, of
Whom Sanat Kumara is a direct Disciple. The Eternal Youth, the ‘Aretian
Youth’ is the highest example upon our planet of the “Teaching Ray”, the
great second ray. (cf. LOM 302)
D.
Relation to the Monad: Both the second
ray and Aries have a strong connection to the monad. The monad
is focussed upon the second plane of the cosmic physical plane and,
by numerical affinity, has a strong connection with the second ray,
regardless of what may be its particular ray quality. A monad is a “lord
of ceaseless persevering devotion” (“The Monad is Life, the sustaining force, a Lord of persevering
and ceaseless devotion to the pursuit of a seen and determined objective.”)
(EP I 48)
Aries, of course, is associated with the spirit of man—again
the monad. The monad goes forth under an Aretian impulse, as a great
sacrifice to lower life forms. Its motive is divine love. Thus,
again, through the monad, we see the connection between Aries and the
second ray.
E. Related to the
Resurrection Initiation: The Resurrection Initiation,
most conceivably ruled by Aries, of all constellations/signs, the one
most associated with the theme of resurrection, is additionally
ruled by the second ray. Further, this initiation, focuses the
life of the initiate upon the first plane of the cosmic physical plane,
the “Sea of Fire”. It is reasonable to see this “Sea of Fire” associated
with the first sign, Aries. Aries, as well, carries the “sea”
symbolism, as its symbol is often the head of a ram with the tail of
a fish.
Well Known Individuals Hypothesized
as
Expressing this Combination of Rays and Signs
1.
Baba Ram Dass (Richard Alpert)
Author and Spiritual Teacher
April 6, 1941, Boston, Massachusetts.
(Source, LMR from Alpert’s autobiography, “The Only Dance There Is")
  

(Ascendant Cancer with Pluto conjunct the Ascendant and rising;
MC in Pisces; Sun conjunct Uranus, both in Aries and both conjunct the
NN, also in Aries; Moon is Sagittarius conjunct Vertex also in Sagittarius;
Venus in Pisces conjunct the Part of Fortune; Mercury in Taurus; Mars
in Leo; Jupiter in Cancer; Saturn in Capricorn, H7; Neptune in Virgo)
Richard Alpert, also known as Baba Ram Dass was one of the
more popular educators, authors and teachers of spirituality during the
latter part of the twentieth century. He was academically trained at various
universities in the United States and became a professor of psychology
at Harvard University. There, he and his friend Timothy Leary were involved
in psychological experiments with hallucinogens, for which both lost their
positions. Alpert and Leary continued their experimentation with psychedelics
but eventually ended their partnership. Alpert travelled to India where
he met a guru who influenced him deeply. He took a new name, Ram Dass,
which means “servant of God” in Hindi. From his new life-perspective he
began to see the use of psychedelic drugs as superficial and discontinued
such experimentation. As his knowledge of Eastern and Western spirituality
deepened, and as his books were published, Ram Dass, himself, became a
kind of ‘guru’ to those in the West who sought a deeper meaning in life.
A
Summary of Points to Bear in Mind when Interpreting
the Astrological Chart of Richard Alpert/Baba Ram Dass
a. From
the nature of his writing and teaching it is clear that Ram Dass is a
soul focussed on the second ray of Love-Wisdom. His writings radiate the
wisdom of the East and he speaks for deeper understanding, tolerance,
service and virtues which emerge from a realization of oneness.
b. The
major distributor for the second ray in his chart is the opposition between
Neptune (planet of the “Solar Flames”, in second ray Virgo) and sometime
second ray Venus in the sign of its exaltation, second ray Pisces. Pisces
and Virgo also distribute the sixth ray, contributing to his reputation
for activism.
c. The
Venus Neptune opposition confers great sensitivity and compassion and
would be a strong conduit for second ray soul energies.
d. The
second ray planet Jupiter is in the sign of its exaltation, Cancer and
in the twelfth house resonant with second ray/sixth ray Pisces. While
Jupiter is not rising in the conventional sense, it is fairly close to
the Ascendant and as the “soul ray planet” is powerful.
e. Jupiter
is in a reasonable trine aspect with Venus, emphasizing soul consciousness.
Venus is placed in a Jupiterian sign (Pisces) and in a Jupiterian house,
the ninth. This aspect contributes to Ram Dass’ exploration in the realms
of higher consciousness.
f.
Two planets of the heart, Jupiter in Cancer and Neptune
in Virgo are in a fairly close septile aspect, uniting them in a ‘fated’
relationship.
g. Clearly,
Ram Dass is well equipped to represent the second ray of Love-Wisdom
h. As
his Sun is in Aries, there are probably strong elements of both the fourth
and sixth rays in his personality demonstration. Sixth ray Mars (placed
if first ray/fifth ray Leo), is the exoteric ruler of Aries and fourth
ray Mercury (placed in fourth ray Taurus) is the esoteric ruler.
i.
Judging from his activism and his devotion to his guru and
to the cause of enlightenment, the sixth ray is a reasonable choice for
the personality ray, but it cannot be conclusively stated to be so as
there are many fourth ray elements also present.
j.
Significantly, the Sun is conjunct revolutionary, experimental
Uranus, contributing to Alpert’s early rebellion against conventionality
(especially in matters of consciousness). He defied Harvard’s policy
with respect to drug experimentation, and became a spokesperson for the
transformation of consciousness.
k. Aries
is the sign of pioneering and Uranus the planet of the “new and better
way”. Thus Richard Alpert/Ram Dass emerged as a leading pioneer in first
the American and later the global “Consciousness Movement”. As these two
planets are placed in his tenth house, this type of pioneering work became
his real profession. Someone less spiritually attuned could simply have
used a lower vibration of Uranus and continued with orthodox psychological
experimentation. It is likely that there is quite a bit of the fifth ray
in the mental body of Ram Dass. At least, it appears that that vehicle
was initially focussed on the fifth ray.
l.
As spiritual progress continued and as the buddhic plane
was accessed through Neptune (the esoteric rulers of the Cancer Ascendant),
there would naturally be more opportunity for the fourth ray to enter
the concrete mind. We note that Mercury (a planet associated with both
the concrete mind and the buddhi/intuitive mind, as well as the abstract
mind) is in the fourth ray sign Taurus.
m. The
Ascendant is Cancer, in Ram Dass’ case, ruled not only by the exoteric
Moon (in adventurous Sagittarius) but by transcendental Neptune in Virgo
in the third house. The Moon position, considered exoterically, gave him
an early taste for fast cars and, in general, speed. The exoteric interpretation
of Cancer leads to attachment (even attachment to the past as evidence
in his early love of antiques). But the Sagittarian Moon was also present
in the case of Einstein and other adventurers in consciousness and the
mind. It can be read as a spiritual position, giving an innate inclination
for spiritual quests—earlier interpreted in terms of psychedelic “trips”.
n. The
Moon, in this case, will be veiling transcendental Neptune or experimental
Uranus, and maybe both on various occasions. It is in a kind of grand
trine with Mars and Juno, and by “translation of light” the Sun/Uranus
conjunction is involved. All this conferred fire and enthusiasm in Ram
Dass’ pursuits—and first secular and later sacred. We do see the Sagittarian
Moon very “low” by declination (the planet most “out of bounds”, i.e.,
beyond the highest or lowest point in declination reached by the Sun).
This makes the Moon powerful and, therefore, a focus for transmutation.
o. The
“Lunar Lords” are ruled by Sagittarius and Mars. When, in an advanced
soul, the Moon is placed in Sagittarius, the possibility of harnessing
the Lunar Lords to the life of aspiration is very great. In the case of
Ram Dass, the elevation of these energies is a strong possibility. Issues
concerning the second initiation are involved in such dynamics. The revelations
for which he has been responsible, however, concern more the consciousness
of the third initiation.
p. The
Cancer Ascendant blended with the second ray soul is, of course, vitally
important, providing a strong streak of nurturance. This has been
demonstrated in Ram Dass’ attitude as a teacher (his book, “How Can I
Help”, 1985) and in practical living through his nurturing care of his
ailing father. Cancer is a major protective and protecting energy, especially
when combined with the second ray. Neptune is usually considered a sixth
ray planet, and Virgo is a sixth ray sign, so a powerful sixth ray is
thereby indicated. However, on a higher turn of the spiral, Neptune is,
monadically, a second ray planet and Virgo the most powerful constellational
distributor of the second ray at this time. So we see that given
the position of Neptune in Virgo, the second ray soul potentials have
an excellent instrument of expression.
q. The
placement of Neptune in the third house is important, because the third
house represents the lower mind, and Neptune, access to the intuitive
plane, fourth ray buddhi. In the charts of those of small mentality, Neptune
in the third can simply indicate confused perception and vague mental
expression. But Ram Dass' mentality is high (in both Western and Eastern
terms) and so it is likely than much buddhic-intuition energy expresses
even through his concrete thoughts and statements.
r.
Virgo is usually associated with the gestation of the “Christ
Consciousness”. Alpert is, perhaps, more Hindu or Buddhist by practice
and persuasion (though certainly very capable of realizing the meaning
of the Christ Consciousness and its relation to states of awareness promoted
in the classical Hindu and Buddhist literature. When looking at some of
the deeper results of his work, we can see it as the stimulation of soul-consciousness
(i.e., Christ Consciousness) within many spiritual seekers in the West.
s. The
obvious stream of nurturance which runs through his life demonstration
is furthered by the presence of the nurturing asteroid Ceres in Libra,
the sign of peace and right human relationships, placed in the fourth
house of home and parenting. Through this influence there is indicated
a capacity to bring peace and harmony to the lunar realm of personality.
t.
But, clearly there were also struggles, as a powerful T-Square
between the Cancer Ascendant, Saturn at the cusp of the seventh house
in Capricorn, and the Sun/Uranus conjunction in Aries (as the short leg
of the T-Square). It is clear that Ram Dass (presumably in his earlier
days) was possessed of considerable “ego”, self-assurance, the sense of
“being right”. Mars in Leo can confer personality authority and egoism
and the Moon in Sagittarius, impatience with slow movement. He would have
had the tendency to get carried away with his enthusiasms, moving forward
without being considerate. But Cancer and Capricorn call for quite different
virtues. Cancer is sensitive and receptive and Saturn in Capricorn at
the seventh would give a ready tendency towards cool abstraction in relationship—a
ready detachment (akin to a monkish approach).
u. This
T-Square would be hard to reconcile. Perhaps Saturnian detachment would
enter and check the urgent, inspired enthusiasms of Sun/Uranus in Aries,
tempering them, so that the greater sensitivity of the Cancer Ascendant
can emerge.
v. Saturn
in Capricorn seems reflective of earlier incarnations of detachment. It
is reported that Ram Dass has struggled with issues of sexuality, alternating
between celibacy (Saturn in Capricorn at the seventh) and bi-sexuality
(encouraged by Sun conjunct Uranus—planet of rebellion against the conventional,
and Juno in Aries {heated by the Leo Mars and Sagittarius Moon}, inclining
one to plunge into relationship). Ascendant, Pluto and Mars are all within
a few degrees parallel to each other (by declination), and so a powerful
complex of sexual energies is presented, but one, as well, which holds
deep transformative possibilities. Surely Ram Dass knows what is to be
done with the sexual energy in terms of the elevation of consciousness.
Pluto rising at the Ascendant can lead one deeply into those energies,
but also lead to their transmutation and elevation—their consecration
to higher purposes.
w. The
“fixed stars” tell an interesting story, but one would want to be very
certain of the birth time before association these factors (generally
given an orb of only a degree or so) with any of the “angles” of the chart.
The Sun is closely parallel Bellatrix which gives an outspoken nature
and also, according to Brady, “confrontation with the shadow”—in this
case, his own (as the shadows of spiritual teachers are usually considerable)
and that of others. Mercury parallels Denebola, called the “Changer”,
giving changes which are out of step with present social trends. This
we can certainly see. Jupiter, the planet of expanding consciousness,
is closely parallel to Hamal, star of strength, independence and even
aggression. We can read it as forcefulness in the field of consciousness.
Uranus is parallel the star Procyon—rapid action and short-lived opportunities.
Added to Aries this would give a vision of possibilities and a tendency
to act quickly on them. Gains, however would not abide. The MC is conjunct
the star, Scheat (considered by some unfortunate) but related to free-thinkers
and those who dare to think the impossible. Again this is a very suitable
placement.
x. Thus
far, a reasonable working hypothesis for Ram Dass’ rays is:
i.
Soul ray: second
ii.
Personality ray: six sub four or four sub six
iii.
Mental ray: five with a growing four
iv.
Astral ray: six with growing second
v.
Physical Etheric Ray: closer personal contact would be required to determine
this. Aries often inclines towards the third ray through its activism.
But all three signs holding the seventh ray are powerful and active (Aries,
Cancer and Capricorn), and so the seventh ray cannot be dismissed.
y. It
is always difficult to speculate about the monadic ray (which is the primary
ray). Most people are not in much position to express it, and only a Master
can really be sure. But Ram Dass' revelations do pertain
to monadic realization (at least in part). It is the task of the initiate
of the third degree (and those who are aspiring to the third degree) to
reveal oneness. This he has done, thus indicating the influence
of the monad somewhat significant.
z. The
Monadic Point is found opposite the Sun-sign, Aries, thus in Libra. Libra
has its third ray side, but, probably, a more advanced second ray side.
Ram Dass message seems very buddhic. Really it is a function of buddhi-manas.
He has transcended lower manas, per se. He is interested in the infusion
of manas with buddhi, as his writings demonstrate.
aa. The Libra position
of the Monadic Point (the heliocentric position of Earth) is capable of
expressing either the third ray or the second. Inherently, there is plenty
of intelligence evident in Ram Dass’ life. It would seem that the deeper
emphasis at this time is the expression of Love-Wisdom, or (in terms of
Libra), “Divine Love” and “Understanding” (EA 333).
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2.
Clara Barton
Founder of the Red Cross
December 25, 1821, Oxford, Massachusetts, 12:00 PM LMT or 11:40
PM (rectified), LMT (Source of 12:00 PM time Sabian Symbols.
Source of 11:40 PM, T. Pat Davis from Barton’s autobiography, Story
of my Childhood, “just before noon”.) These two times result in
either a Pisces or Aries Ascendant, and either a Sagittarius or Capricorn
MC—which are most significant differences. Died, on April 12, 1912,
Echo Glen, Maryland.

 


(Ascendant,
either Aries of Pisces with Jupiter conjunct Saturn in Aries in H1;
Sun conjunct Uranus conjunct Neptune all in Capricorn and conjunct either
the Sagittarius or the Capricorn MC, with the Moon also in Capricorn;
Mercury in Sagittarius; Venus in Aquarius; Mars in Virgo, a powerful
singleton in the sixth house; Pluto in Pisces conjunct Chiron in Aries)
There are many indications of character suggesting that the Aries-rising
chart is correct. At 11:44:33 AM the Ascendant moves to Aries, so the
case must be examined very closely. Barton’s words were “just before
noon”. Perhaps this means closer than 11:40 AM.
Clara Barton was the founder of the American Association of the Red
Cross. Her chart demonstrates that she had the initiative, power and
compassion to do this. As so many Capricorn individuals, she followed
her conscience (Sun, Moon and two synthesizing planets in conscientious
Capricorn at the “dharmic point”—the MC), and undertook the necessary
strenuous labor—Mars in Virgo, the exoteric ruler of her Ascendant in
the sixth house of labor and duty.
“The Tibetan Teacher interests himself very much
in the work of the Red Cross, and so there must, necessarily, be a connection
between Him and its founder, who, reasonably may be considered to be
on the second ray of Love-Wisdom, in her soul. “He works with those
who heal, and co-operates unknown and unseen with the seekers after
truth in the world's great laboratories, with all who definitely aim
at the healing and solacing of the world, and with the great philanthropic
world movements such as the Red Cross.” (IHS 57-58)
But
clearly, the first ray, sixth ray and seventh ray were also abundantly
present—at least they are conferred by the astrological positions. Aries
and Capricorn confer the first and seventh rays, and Mars, as a singleton,
emphasizes the sixth ray and also expresses through the sign Virgo, through
which the sixth ray expresses (as well as the second). This singleton
Mars is unusually powerful, focusing the considerable energies of the
chart into that area of the chart which governs caring for those who are
sick, disabled and in need of medical attention.
Clara
Barton was possessed of visionary qualities (Mercury in Sagittarius, Neptune
on the MC, both in the ninth house of vision and higher understanding).
The Sagittarian Mercury is the esoteric ruler of the Ascendant, Aries,
emphasizing its prophetic importance. She also had the power to transform
and reform (Uranus on the MC exactly conjunct the Sun). Note that two
of the synthesizing planets (Uranus and Neptune) conjunct each other and
the Sun—an unusually powerful blend of transpersonal, supra-personal energies,
conferring both a high level of innovative executive ability as well as
compassion. She could initiate activity (Aries) both carefully (Saturn
in Aries) and, yet, expansively (Jupiter in Aries). Hers was also the
power to produce group harmony and community (Venus in Aquarius). As well,
a deep karmic factor must necessarily have been at work with Pluto in
its own esoteric sign (Pisces) conjunct the healing planet Chiron, in
the sign of initiative, Aries, both in the twelfth house.
The
chart is balanced between hard line and soft line reinforcements. Six
major planets (Sun, Moon, Uranus, Neptune, Jupiter and Saturn) in the
two signs Capricorn and Aries certainly emphasize the first and seventh
ray potentials. Sun conjunct Uranus is powerfully organizational, and
a Saturn/Jupiter conjunction only reinforces these executive abilities.
However, the three signs which distribute the sixth ray are also emphasized
(Pluto and Chiron in Pisces, Mercury in Sagittarius and singleton, sixth
ray Mars in Virgo), all contributing significantly to a highly motivated
and intense idealism. Behind the scenes however, and permeating this unusually
potent collection of energies, one senses the presence of the compassionate
ray of Love-Wisdom, presumably the soul ray, for which an elevated Neptune
provides a means of expression.
All
in all, this is an extremely powerful and focussed chart through which
a strong and definite piece of work for humanity and Hierarchy could be
accomplished.
A
Summary of Additional Points to Bear in Mind when
Interpreting the Astrological Chart of Clara Barton
a. It
is possible to argue for either the Pisces-rising or Aries-rising chart.
Certainly Pisces is a sign of great compassion and selflessneshs, qualities
which could easily be applied to one who was known as the “angel of the
battlefield”. And there would still be plenty of the sign Aries to give
her the dynamism required for the strenuous life she lead.
b. In
seeking the Aries-rising chart, however, one must bear in mind that the
time loosely given, as 11:40 am, and producing a Pisces Rising Sign, would
change to Aries in just a little over four minutes. And she herself was
known to speak of her time of birth as “a little before noon”. The margin
therefore, is very slight.
c. Both
Virgo and Pisces and signs of healing and nursing. It is clear that Clara
Barton as a dynamic force in the field of battlefield nursing owed much
to the placement of a singleton Mars in Virgo, in Virgo’s own house, the
sixth. This placement contributed to her capacity for tireless, unrelenting
labor (greatly reinforced by her Capricorn and other Aries planets).
d. If
Aries were her Rising Sign, Mars would be the exoteric ruler and the connection
between soul orientation (as found at the Ascendant) and her singleton
Mars would be complete.
e. As
well, Chiron, a planet of healing, conferring direction and mission upon
those it influences strongly would be on the Ascendant and in the sign
of the Ascendant, strengthening it. Like Chiron, she was indeed one who
“went her own way”.
f.
From the very first, Clara Barton was an educator,
linking her to the second ray of Love-Wisdom even before she began her
work of seeing to the needs of those wounded in battle. The fact that
her particular focus was the battlefield, of course, emphasizes the importance
of Aries, with Scorpio one of the major signs of battle.
g. In
1852 she established a free school in Bordentown, New Jersey. It was so
successful that the powers that be decided no woman could be in charge
of it. She resigned rather than subordinate herself to a male principle.
This seems far more an act of defiant Aries than more accommodating, self-effacing
Pisces.
h. As
well, later in her career, once she had established the American National
Red Cross she was apparently difficult to work with, and “jealous of any
interference”. She supervised the work so closely that charges of authoritarianism
were brought against her by members of the executive council. Again, this
seems to be typical behavior related to Aries, which so often seeks to
do everything by itself. One could argue that the Sun in Capricorn and
Mars in Virgo could account for this behavior. Surely they would contribute
to it, but Aries on the Ascendant, with Mars in Virgo as the ruler would
add the “edge”. People do not usually find it difficult to work with a
Pisces-rising person. Apparently, however, relations became very confrontational
in this incident. She was known for the “arbitrariness “ of her way.
i.
There is also the question of stamina. She had stamina in
abundance and worked with great forcefulness. Is this more typical of
Pisces on the Ascendant, ruled by Jupiter, Neptune and Pluto, or of Aries
ruled by Mars, Mercury and Uranus?
j.
Another point worth exploring is the sign on the MC. Should
it be Sagittarius or Capricorn? Given the intensity of her labor and her
organizational ability, Capricorn seems the correct choice. But the solution
is not so simple, as Jupiter, the exoteric ruler of Sagittarius and Saturn
the exoteric and esoteric ruler of Capricorn are conjoined in Aries.
The optimism and “can do” attitude of Jupiter in Aries would be regulated
by the Saturn conjunction. Further, Saturn is also the ruler of the Capricorn
Sun, giving it weight even if Saturn were not the ruler of the MC. But
given the tremendous organizational work she performed, and the great
assumption of responsibility involved, a Capricorn MC seems the better
(if not decisive) choice. Let us remember that the MC would change to
Capricorn just a little after four minutes from the 11:40 pm time suggested
in the biography. One wonders at this 11:40 time. While it might be correct,
it almost seems as if it were placed there by someone determined to see
Pisces on the Ascendant. Really, no reasoning of this kind will be conclusive.
Only a study of chart timing will determine the most probably truth.
k. If
Pisces were the sign ascending, we could say that the chart of Clara Barton
would not belong in the midst of these Aries charts. But even so, Aries
is so strongly represented through Chiron, Saturn and Jupiter, that it
would not be entirely out of place.
l.
Our problem is further complicated by the fact that the
Ascendant is rising relatively fast in late Pisces and early Aries. A
short period of time can account for the rather fast passing of degrees.
But, perhaps we can use this fast passage as a discriminator.
m. It
should be noted that even if Pisces is the Rising-sign, the last decanate
of Pisces (in the chart of a persona traveling on the spiritual or counterclockwise
wheel is Mars.) Again Mars. It becomes clear that the ‘breath
of Aries’ can already be felt in the final degrees of Pisces.
n. Two
events which might be considered as speaking strongly for the Pisces-rising
chart are the eclipses in September 1903 and March of 1904 (the year in
which she retired from the organization she built.
Sun
SEcl (X) Tr-Tr Sep 21 1903 13:40
27°Vi01' D
Sun SEcl (X) Tr-Tr Mar 17 1904 00:53
26°Pi13’ D
These eclipses are on her Descendant first and her Ascendant in the actual
year. Of course, as might be expected, another complication arises, as
the Pisces solar eclipse falls exactly on Pluto, which could easily signal
the termination of that phase of her work. Of course, Pluto, would be
the esoteric ruler of Pisces, were it the Rising Sign.
We also note the presence of Uranus hovering around her MC in late Sagittarius,
which would not be the case in any of the Aries-rising charts.

o. Another
bit of timing which weighs in more in favor of the 11:40 chart, is the
transit (at the time of Clara Barton’s death) of Pluto in the 28th
degree of Gemini very close to the IC at the 29th degree of
Gemini yielded by the Pisces-rising chart. Pluto brings death. At the
same time the progressing Ascendant of the Pisces-rising chart is also
in late Gemini, very close to the Pluto. If we go in this direction. We
might even want to make the birth slightly earlier than 11:40 in order
to make transiting Pluto coincide with a slightly earlier IC and a slightly
earlier progressing Ascendant.
From a physiognomical point of view, we do notice a rather
strong dimple in the chin. This is frequently found in relation to Taurus
and Scorpio. If the last degrees of Pisces were rising, the third decanate
would be rising, and the third decanate is ruled by Scorpio. These physiognomic
features appear not only in relation to whole signs but in relation to
signs which rule decanates.
q. Perhaps
some quite conclusive evidence arises when we consider the year she resigned
her position from the free school she had started, rather than be a subordinate
to a male principle, for no other reason than that he was male. On January
21st 1852 there was a solar eclipse at one degree Aquarius,
the same degree in which her progressing MC was to be found. This is most
indicative, as the MC has to do with career and Aquarius with freedom.
Further just a little later, on June 17th, 1852, there was
another solar eclipse at 26°Gemini34’, very near the IC. If, as stated
above, the birth were even slightly earlier than 11:40 pm, the eclipse
would be even closer to the IC and (as stated above) the death chart for
an Ascendant of Pisces would work out even more closely.
Sun
SEcl (X) Tr-Tr Jan 21 1852 NS 16:11 00°Aq28'
D
Sun SEcl (X) Tr-Tr Jun 18 1852 NS 02:00
26°Ge34' D
The evidence is now weighing in for the Pisces-rising chart,
as much as the author had argued (qualitatively) for the Aries Ascendant.

r.
Of course, there is no need for us to go all the way to
noon to produce a chart with Aries Rising. We could have the chart
we need beginning at 11:44:33 pm. But the MC/IC would still be Capricorn/Cancer,
and the eclipses in late Pisces would touch the angular points acceptably,
but still be “out of sign”. Further at the end of her life, Pluto would
neither be touching the progressing Ascendant, which already would be
in Cancer, nor would it be near enough to the to the IC angle to make
the decisive difference.
s. The
author has left the argumentation (as it occurred to him) intact in this
analysis of Clara Barton, in part for heuristic purposes, in order to
demonstrate to readers how subtle the matter of deciding the correct Ascendant
and MC may be, and how easy it is to find justifications for either or
two contending possibilities. The matter is not yet solved, but there
is increasing ‘cyclic reason’ to accept the Pisces-rising chart as accurate,
rather than the Aries-rising chart (which has as strong a qualitative
appeal, if not stronger, that the Pisces-rising chart).
t.
If, indeed, Pisces is the Rising Sign, then the angular
Pluto in Pisces, the sign of saviorship, is very strong, indicating
one who is willing to make all manner of sacrifices (even of life) to
carry out a mission of salvation. Neptune and Jupiter will also be rulers.
Neptune will confer idealism for the humanitarian organizations she supported
and founded, and Jupiter, exoteric ruler, will make all things seem possible.
u. Of
course, these placements would still be effective no matter what the Ascendant,
but Pluto, Neptune and Jupiter are given greater weight in the case of
a Pisces Ascendant. As far as the exact extent of quantitative weight,
that cannot at this time be determined.
v. The
feel of this chart speaks of an initiate. There is something here
which resembles the life of Dr. Albert Schweitzer (almost certainly an
initiate of the third degree). As in the case of Schweitzer there is the
assumption of extreme responsibility followed by great renunciation and
selfless sacrifice.
w. We
can easily view Clara Barton as a “world disciple”. Even in her day (when
communication and travel was not so easy) she made her impact not only
in the United States but abroad, and was even awarded by the conservative
German government and the Kaiser for her selflessness and bravery. This
represents a tremendous evocation; there was a response even from that
group around Bismarck and the Kaiser which was responsible, a bit later,
for ‘opening the door where evil dwelt’.
x. If
we think of Clara Barton as essentially a second ray soul, and choose
Pisces for her Ascendant, we see an easy flow of second ray energy through
the soul-orienting Ascendant.
y. If
that is the case however, the personality ray is almost certainly the
first, and it would not surprise the author if the mental ray were also
the first. She was so determined, so practical and so executive
in her approach to the humanitarian responsibility she had undertaken.
A close study of her writings, perhaps, would reveal the story. Mercury
in “straight shooting” Sagittarius would contribute some first ray straightness
to the mental process, but the situation is complex as there are harmonious
aspects to Mercury from Venus, Saturn and Jupiter. No doubt she could
be very persuasive.
z. The
astral body would appear to be the sixth, especially in consideration
of the vigilance of her life, and the “jealousy” with which she guarded
her prerogatives and her control of the organization she founded.
aa. The physical body
would seem to be on the seventh ray, giving order and executive ability,
but strengthened by the first ray personality to withstand the rigors
of the battlefield.
bb. One senses the
presence of some form of greatness here, and yet of humility. There is
courage, sacrifice, a very strong will, persistence, compassion, selflessness—in
short the makings of an initiate.
cc. It would be reasonable
to view this chart and the life it represents in the same way one views
the life of Albert Schweitzer. It is the chart of a great humanitarian
who contributed immensely to the alleviation of human suffering. It is
very probably the chart of an initiate, not just of the threshold, but
an initiate in fact.
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