Transits - The Four Forms of Interpretation - Richard Swatton

Mondays, 14th, 21st, 28th February, 7th March 2005

Combining analysis and discussion of relevant chart examples, The Four Forms of Interpretation explores how interpretative technique varies its approach depending on the subject enquired about. For example, for general advice about ‘everyday matters’, it is often best to use judicial/horary and/or electional techniques. And yet, when applying astrology to matters of psychological and/or sociological development, natal or ‘genethliacal’ methods are more suitable. As for gaining astrological insight into political developments, it is “mundane interpretation” is best - beginning with interpreting charts of leaders and nations.

Each talk will cover one of the four types or methods of astrological interpretation – although each is also designed as a separate study so that it can be attended on its own. The first talk explores the method of divinatory or horary astrology. As well being directly helpful in matters of human concern, horary also trains the astrologer’s mind to recognise how astrological symbols accurately depict real life scenarios and situations in life - an essential skill that reveals both the mystery and magic of astrology. In week two we explore the national charts of the USA and the UK along with the charts of their leaders, G. W. Bush and T. Blair. Our exploration will include present and future developmental patterns through transits and (some) progressions. The third week begins with a talk on one of the most essential but often neglected elements of genethliacal (natal) astrological interpretation: giving pertinent and reliable advice that although based on the natal chart combines both natal and horary methodology. In the fourth talk we explore the capacity of natal chart to provide deep psychological insight and self-knowledge. In both the third and forth talk it is hoped that some on-the-spot work with the charts of those attending will be done using present transit patterns.

14th February 2005
Week One: Horary: a Perspective

Drawing upon examples from my practice, this talk explores the method I use when approaching interpretation of horary charts. Suitable not only for those wishing to improve their technique but for all astrologers wishing to learn about astrology's extraordinary capacity for divination and prediction.

21st February 2005
Week Two: Going Global

This talk explores the horoscopes of the USA and UK and those of it present leaders using a combination of both psychological and mundane methods of interpretation. Current transits and progressions that show current patterns of development are also explored.

28th February 2005
Week Three: Drawing Advice and Guidance from the Natal Horoscope

This talk demonstrates the capacity of astrology to give practical advice. Although much psychological astrology tends to inform us about inner meaning, the often ignored skill of translating that meaning into direct and clear practical advice is the "other end" of psychological astrology that, in my opinion, is often left wanting. Applying some horary methods and the key idea of symbolic participation we are helped to make interpretations that lead towards practical action. Using the natal placements and transits of those present we will demonstrate this principle both in theory and practice.

7th March 2005
Week Four: Psychological Astrology

Present day methods of psychological astrology vary in their complexity. It is true to say, however, that the most deep psychological understanding that comes from a birth chart cannot simply be arrived at without there already being some familiarity of the process itself. Astrology tends to support, add to, and enlarge upon insights gained through other methods of self-investigation and self-understanding. Bearing this in mind, this talk outlines an approach to interpreting the natal chart from a psychological perspective using basic and easily applied principles. Group members are encouraged to bring their own charts for discussion.