In astrology the Moon is a symbol for our changing moods, reactions, and ability to connect with the outer world. When we observe the moon over the course of the month, half the time it’s between the Sun and the Earth and the other half it’s between the Earth and the outer planets- so it’s a symbol for the connection between our inner world and the outer world.
The Moon moves through all of the signs of the Zodiac over the course of a month. As it moves through the signs it is also making aspects to the various planets. For example, when the Moon moves through Pisces it will (as of this writing) be making an aspect called an opposition to Saturn, which is in Virgo (remember that Virgo and Pisces are on opposites sides of the sky). The Moon moves through one sign in about two and a half days and between the time of its last aspect to one of the planets but before moving into the next sign it’s said to be “void of course.” A void of course Moon can last a few seconds, minutes, or a half a day or more; and it occurs a few times each week.
I liken a void of course (henceforth “VOC”) Moon to a trapeez artist who let’s go of one bar in mid-air and is reaching for the other bar- those moments when she’s disconnected from both and transitioning between the two. The VOC Moon is useful for somethings but not others. On the downside I see the VOC Moon as a time when things fail to take root. The Moon is disconnected and there are no channels or connections for it to imbue its energy. I’ve had several personal experiences where I’ve initiated something during a VOC Moon only to find that nothing really becomes of it- it never crystalizes and the outcome could not have been predicted.
As one astrologer describes it: “Decision making in such periods turns out later to be unrealistic. Creativity diverges into unpleasant directions, improvisations, false starts, error. Business moves fail to generate profits, or meet unexpected difficulties. If you buy any object it usually fails of its intended use.”
I recognize astrology’s usefulness and application in our lives, but I don’t see any need to obsess about it. However, if I were making a big decision or big purchase I would just check to see where the Moon was at that time. If you do find that the moon is VOC when you’re supposed to be in an interview, or on your first date be proactive and see if the time can be changed. This is what astrology is for- like a weather forecast- to inform your own decisions.
You can use the VOC Moon positively too. Things that are favored during a VOC Moon are meditation, completing things you started earlier, daydreaming, relaxing, and luxuriating in the present moment.
I use Jim Maynard’s “Astrologer’s Datebook” as a personal calendar and it lists the Moon sign for each day, major planetary aspects, and when the Moon is void of course. I also found another website that lists the dates and time of the VOC moon.
I believe astrology is about recognizing our connection to the world we live in and partnering with the cycles and the seasons around us instead of resisting it. I encourage you to observe your place in this world and how different times affect your growth and productivity. And should you need any help getting a handle on your cycles I’m always available for a consultation.
[...] for finishing up little tasks, engaging your imagination, and being more present. Read my article http://miamiastrology.com/2008/12/astrology-basics-the-void-of-course-moon/ for a more in-depth explanation of the void of course [...]
[...] Things Done coupled with astrology makes the daily choices even easier. For example, with the moon void of course today I found it a great time to finish up a few writing projects (like this newsletter) instead of [...]