Astrological Insights for 22 September 2009

Today is the Autumnal Equinox, the first day of fall.

With Mercury conjunct Saturn today, compelling us to use our words constructively, it feels only fitting to point out what Equinoxes mean and some myths surrounding them.

* The Autumnal Equinox is the day when the Sun enters Libra, the sign known for fairness, equality, and diplomacy. (The Vernal or March Equinox is the day when the Sun enters Aries.)

* According to Greek mythology, it is the first day of fall each year that Persephone descends to the Underworld, from which she emerges on the first day of spring, when life flourishes again on earth.

* In pagan traditions, the Autumnal Equinox coincides with the holiday of Mabon. This is when the second harvest is celebrated and when thanks are given to the gods and goddesses to ensure protection during the winter months. Sacred scents during Mabon include  frankincense, myrrh, and benzoin.

* Even though the word Equinox derives from aequus (equal) and nox (night), except on the equator, the length of the day does not equal the length of the night. (It is the equilix which signifies the day when the sunset to sunrise period is of 12 hours in length.)

* Despite folkloric tales to the contrary, you likely will not have any better luck balancing an egg on its point on the Equinox than on any other day of the year.

Happy Autumn!!!