Pluto in Astrology: Meaning and Significations Explained

The Astrology Podcast・2 minutes read

Astrologer Richard Tarnas discusses Pluto's significance in astrology, covering topics like historical events, cultural movements, and planetary transits. The podcast delves into themes of transformation, power, and rebirth associated with Pluto, emphasizing the importance of understanding the astrological influences on individuals and society.

Insights

  • Richard Tarnas, author of "Cosmos and Psyche," discusses Pluto's significance in astrology on Chris Brennan's Astrology Podcast.
  • The Saturn-Pluto conjunction in early 2020 is linked to the pandemic, showcasing astrology's relevance to global events.
  • Uranus signifies change and revolution, while Pluto intensifies and liberates archetypes, impacting historical movements like women's rights and civil rights.
  • Saturn-Pluto alignments historically correlate with significant events like World War I and the Cold War, emphasizing themes of contraction and confinement.
  • Astrologers blend mythology, empirical observations, and historical context to establish the meanings of newly discovered planets like Pluto.
  • Pluto's discovery in 1930 coincided with intense transformative events like World War II, symbolizing upheaval, decay, and regeneration in various realms.
  • The film "Changing of The Gods" explores patterns and meanings related to Uranus and Pluto alignments, offering insights into historical cycles and astrology's accuracy.

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Recent questions

  • What is the significance of Pluto in astrology?

    Pluto holds immense significance in astrology due to its association with transformation, intensity, upheaval, and regeneration. It symbolizes the underworld, representing deep psychological processes, power dynamics, and the cycle of death and rebirth. Astrologers view Pluto as a planet that brings hidden truths to light, forces individuals to confront their shadows, and catalyzes profound changes in personal and collective spheres. Its influence is often linked to themes of power struggles, destruction, and renewal, urging individuals to delve into the depths of their psyche and embrace profound transformation.

  • How do Saturn-Pluto alignments impact historical events?

    Saturn-Pluto alignments have a profound impact on historical events, often coinciding with periods of intense challenges, transformation, and significant societal shifts. These alignments are associated with themes of contraction, confinement, and the exposure of deep-seated power dynamics. Throughout history, Saturn-Pluto conjunctions and oppositions have correlated with events like World War I, the Great Depression, the Cold War, and the 9/11 attacks, highlighting the gravity and seriousness of these periods. They bring about heightened awareness of environmental issues, moral dilemmas, and life-and-death issues, shaping the course of nations and civilizations.

  • What are the key themes explored in the documentary series "Changing of The Gods"?

    The documentary series "Changing of The Gods" delves into the correlations between Uranus-Pluto alignments and cultural movements throughout history. It explores themes like women's rights movements, the Civil Rights Movement, and technological revolutions tied to these planetary alignments. The series aims to shed light on the transformative power of Uranus and Pluto, showcasing how these celestial forces influence societal structures, individual freedoms, and collective consciousness. By examining historical cycles and significant events, the documentary provides insights into the profound impact of planetary alignments on human civilization.

  • How do astrologers establish the meanings of newly discovered planets like Pluto?

    Astrologers establish the meanings of newly discovered planets like Pluto by blending mythology, empirical observations, and historical context to develop their significations. By drawing on archetypal associations, cultural narratives, and symbolic representations, astrologers interpret the influence of these celestial bodies on human experiences. The naming of planets after mythological figures reflects a deeper connection to ancient wisdom and cosmic forces, allowing astrologers to tap into the archetypal energies associated with these planetary bodies. Through a synthesis of myth, observation, and historical context, astrologers construct a nuanced understanding of planets like Pluto and their impact on individual and collective destinies.

  • How do Venus-Pluto aspects manifest in personal relationships and artistic expressions?

    Venus-Pluto aspects manifest in personal relationships and artistic expressions through themes of intense passion, hidden desires, and transformative love experiences. Individuals with Venus-Pluto aspects may navigate complex dynamics of power, obsession, and emotional depth in their relationships, leading to profound experiences of love and loss. Artists like Janis Joplin and Frida Kahlo exemplify the passionate and transformative nature of Venus-Pluto aspects in their creative works, showcasing the raw intensity and emotional depth associated with these planetary combinations. Taboos, hidden elements, and power struggles often characterize relationships influenced by Venus-Pluto aspects, highlighting the complex interplay of love, desire, and transformation in personal and artistic realms.

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Summary

00:00

"Pluto's Astrological Significance Explored in Podcast"

  • Chris Brennan hosts the Astrology Podcast, Episode 336, featuring astrologer Richard Tarnas discussing Pluto's significance in astrology.
  • Richard Tarnas authored "Cosmos and Psyche" in 2006, a notable astrology book.
  • The podcast delves into various topics related to Pluto, including a digression on the Saturn-Pluto conjunction in early 2020 and its link to the pandemic.
  • Tarnas previously appeared on Episode 84 in 2016, marking the 10-year anniversary of "Cosmos and Psyche."
  • The discussion transitions from historical research on Saturn-Pluto alignments to broader significations of Pluto in astrology.
  • Timestamps for the episode are available for easy navigation.
  • Tarnas participated in a documentary series, "Changing of The Gods," focusing on the Uranus-Pluto cycle and cultural correlations.
  • The series explores themes like women's rights movements, the Civil Rights Movement, and technological revolutions tied to Uranus-Pluto alignments.
  • Uranus signifies change, revolution, and innovation, while Pluto intensifies and liberates archetypes it interacts with.
  • The Saturn-Pluto conjunction historically correlates with significant events like World War I, the Great Depression, and the Cold War, showcasing contraction and confinement themes.

17:04

Saturn-Pluto Alignments: Impactful, Environmental Awareness, Consequences

  • Saturn-Pluto alignments have long-lasting consequences and bring about a heightened awareness of environmental issues and potential apocalyptic scenarios.
  • Greta Thunberg, born during the Saturn-Pluto opposition from 2001 to 2004, emerged as a prominent advocate for global ecological awareness.
  • Saturn-Pluto periods are characterized by a sense of gravity, seriousness, and moral focus, with an emphasis on life-and-death issues.
  • Events like the 9/11 attacks occurred during Saturn-Pluto alignments, showcasing the heavy, impactful nature of these periods.
  • Saturn-Pluto alignments can lead to confinement, as seen during the COVID-19 pandemic when people were isolated in their homes or on the front lines as essential workers.
  • The Saturn-Pluto opposition in the mid-60s led to the start and fall of the Twin Towers, highlighting the significant events that can occur during these alignments.
  • The Saturn-Pluto energies manifest in various ways, from facing mortality and social inequalities to experiencing solitude and separation.
  • The Saturn-Pluto conjunction in the early 80s coincided with events like the AIDS epidemic and heightened nuclear tensions during the Cold War.
  • The Pluto archetype requires conscious reflection and awareness to navigate its extreme and raw energies effectively.
  • Astrologers establish the meanings of newly discovered planets like Pluto by blending mythology, empirical observations, and historical context to develop their significations.

35:43

Enslaved Rebellion, Astrological Naming, and Mythological Symbolism

  • The first rebellion by enslaved people occurs, marking a significant event.
  • Around 15 years before and after the year of discovery, significant astrological phenomena take place, providing insights into the planet's astrological significance.
  • Modern astronomers, unlike ancient astrologers, name planets without considering archetypal or astrological meanings.
  • Planets like Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto were named after Greek mythology figures, reflecting a patriarchal narrative.
  • Ancient astronomy and astrology were intertwined, viewing stars and planets as gods and celestial powers.
  • The naming of planets by astronomers lacked archetypal or astrological intentions.
  • Uranus symbolizes the sky, space travel, and cosmic exploration, reflecting its astrological significance.
  • Neptune's name relates to water, symbolizing fluidity, mysticism, and the oceanic realm.
  • Pluto's name was influenced by a young girl's suggestion, connecting it to the underworld in Greek mythology.
  • Astrologers recognize the synchronistic connection between a planet's name and its astrological meaning, emphasizing the importance of cultural context and individual birth charts.

54:15

Pluto's Astrological Influence Explored in Depth

  • The current astrological alignment includes Pluto-Venus conjunction, Mercury, and Moon square Pluto at the Midheaven.
  • The chart discussed features late Taurus rising with a triple conjunction of Mercury, Venus, and Pluto in Capricorn.
  • Jupiter is transitioning into Pisces on the same day as the chart discussion.
  • Saturn has recently moved out of conjunction with Pluto, being around 5/10 degrees past the 15-degree mark.
  • There is a tight semi-square between Mars and Pluto, considered significant by some astrologers.
  • The assignment of Pluto to Scorpio won out after debates on assigning it to a zodiac sign.
  • Reinhold Ebertin's 1940 book, "A Combination of Stellar Influences," influenced the development of Pluto's meaning in Western astrology.
  • Dane Rudhyar and Charles Harvey also played influential roles in shaping the understanding of Pluto.
  • Ebertin's delineation of Pluto includes themes of power, influence, and mass movements, reflecting the darker aspects of the archetype.
  • Robert Hand's book, "Planets in Transit," from 1976, provides detailed delineations of Pluto transits, emphasizing transformation, destruction, and regeneration in one's life.

01:09:39

"Rob Hand's Astrological Insights on Pluto"

  • Frances Sakoian and Louis Acker wrote detailed delineations of planets and their natal aspects and transits in booklets before Rob's "Planets in Transit" in 1976.
  • These booklets were later combined into a single volume called "Predictive Astrology" along with the "Astrologer's Handbook."
  • Rob Hand was influenced by Frances Sakoian, Dane Rudhyar, Charles Carter, and Marc Edmund Jones in his astrological work.
  • The discovery of Uranus in the 18th century led to a period of revolution and technological advances, while Neptune's discovery in the 19th century brought romanticism and compassion.
  • Pluto's discovery in 1930 coincided with World War I, World War II, the atomic bomb, and the rise of fascism, representing intense transformative energies.
  • Pluto is associated with elemental power, depth, intensity, and transformative forces, including birth, sex, death, and rebirth.
  • Pluto symbolizes upheaval, breakdown, decay, and regeneration, representing the underworld in various aspects like geological, social, and psychological.
  • Pluto's archetype is linked to myths of dissent and transformation, with associations to deities like Dionysus, Hades, and Kali.
  • Rob Hand's work on Pluto differentiated its significance with different planets, signs, and houses, advancing the understanding of this celestial body.
  • Rob Hand's astrological insights were influenced by a trance-like state during Neptune's transit through his Sun, Venus, and Mercury conjunction, leading to profound teachings on planetary influences.

01:26:18

Pluto's transformative power in spiritual growth

  • Surrender to Shiva leads to the final destruction of the ego, opening up to the cosmic pantheon of gods and goddesses.
  • Astrology deeply intertwined with experiences of golden white light, insights, and recognition of planetary archetypes.
  • Inner journeying aids in breaking free from a materialistic worldview, embracing the depth and mystery of the cosmos.
  • Pluto's role transitions from terrifying to transformational and redemptive, requiring guidance from mentors and wise elders.
  • Historical context of Pluto's discovery in the 1930s linked to the rise of fascism, emphasizing mass will to power and collective suppression.
  • The United States undergoing its first exact Pluto return, symbolizing a significant 248-year cycle and deep transformation.
  • Pluto's influence evident in the rise of authoritarianism, violent populism, and the need to confront the shadow aspects of society.
  • Facing the shadow is crucial for spiritual and psychological growth, leading to a potential rebirth and realization of noble ideals.
  • The interconnectedness of life and death, as seen in Greek and Indian mythologies, underscores the transformative power of Pluto.
  • Collective awakening and engagement with wisdom traditions and rituals are essential for navigating the intense Pluto transits and potential rebirth of civilization.

01:45:07

Pluto's Influence on Depth Psychology and Transformation

  • Pluto signifies a deeper connection to the earth and cosmos, emphasizing intelligence and spiritual mystery.
  • Pluto's significance is seen in birth charts, personal transits, world transits, and the Pluto return for the United States.
  • Pluto transits often bring forth darker aspects of history, leading to a struggle to confront and deal with them.
  • Depth psychology, born in the late 19th century, is closely related to Pluto, with Nietzsche being a key figure.
  • Nietzsche's philosophical expressions, influenced by his Sun-Pluto opposition, reflect Pluto's depth and transformative nature.
  • Jung's chart shows a powerful anima, with the Moon tightly square Uranus and Pluto, emphasizing the importance of facing the shadow and integrating the anima.
  • Depth psychology, including the work of Freud, Jung, and Grof, is crucial for spiritual discovery and civilization's transformation.
  • Jung and Freud's charts show different approaches to psychoanalysis, with Jung focusing on integrating the anima and feminine aspects of life.
  • Jung's emphasis on the anima and feminine archetypes contrasts with Freud's focus on solar deities and the egoic hero.
  • The integration of the anima and feminine side of life, as advocated by Jung, is seen as essential for wholeness and redemptive transformation.

02:03:08

Intense Pluto Aspects: Love, Transformation, and Art

  • Freud and Jung experienced a significant falling out during a Sun-Moon conjunction transit, influenced by their Plutonic synastry.
  • The falling out occurred primarily in 1910-1911, with the relationship deteriorating due to extreme negative aspects of their synastry.
  • Jung underwent a transformative period from 1913 to 1917 or 18, marked by intense transits of Uranus and Neptune affecting his work and psyche.
  • Pluto intensifies and magnifies phenomena, often taking them to extremes, as exemplified by the development of the atom bomb.
  • Plutonium, discovered in 1941 and named after Pluto, symbolizes the intense and secretive nature of Pluto's influence.
  • Pluto's combination with other planets can lead to extreme manifestations, such as obsessive love when combined with Venus.
  • Artistic examples like Janis Joplin and Frida Kahlo illustrate the intense and passionate nature of Venus-Pluto aspects.
  • Venus-Pluto aspects can signify hidden or taboo forms of love, as seen in the tragic story of Alan Turing.
  • Pluto's association with the shadow side of the psyche can lead to shame and persecution, especially in relation to hidden aspects of love.
  • Using art and culture to explore archetypes, such as Venus-Pluto, provides a deeper understanding of the intense and transformative nature of these planetary combinations.

02:20:38

"Pluto Aspects: Wealth, Betrayal, and Power"

  • Taboos and hidden elements often accompany a Pluto aspect in relationships or personal life.
  • Example of Maurizio Gucci with a Venus-Pluto conjunction inheriting the Gucci empire but facing betrayal and murder by his ex-wife.
  • Venus-Pluto and Venus-Jupiter-Pluto in high fashion charts indicate wealth, power, and intense dynamics, including betrayal and power struggles.
  • Greek mythology distinguishes between Pluton and Plutus, representing the lord of the underworld and the god of wealth respectively.
  • Notable wealthy individuals like Bill Gates and Warren Buffett have Jupiter-Pluto conjunctions, leading to extreme wealth.
  • Jupiter-Pluto conjunctions manifest differently in individuals, with some focusing on knowledge or information rather than wealth.
  • Abraham Lincoln's Jupiter-Pluto conjunction influenced his powerful speeches and drive for significance in life despite personal struggles.
  • Jupiter-Pluto aspects are common in influential leaders like George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, and Franklin Delano Roosevelt.
  • Expansion of orbs in planetary aspects is crucial for understanding their interactions and influences, as seen in historical events like the Uranus-Pluto conjunction of the '60s.
  • Visualization tools like Archetypal Explorer help in understanding the range and influence of outer planet transits, including historical events like the 1918 pandemic and COVID-19 in 2020.

02:38:55

"Planetary Alignments During Pandemic Spark Interest"

  • The Jupiter-Pluto conjunction was complexified by Saturn, forming a triple conjunction during the pandemic.
  • A talk titled "What's Happening in the Stars Right Now" was conducted early in the pandemic to address public inquiries.
  • Graphs were utilized to illustrate the intricate interactions between Jupiter, Saturn, and Pluto during the pandemic.
  • Mars was also involved in the planetary alignment during the initial stages of the pandemic in February and March 2020.
  • A significant alignment of multiple planets in Capricorn and Aquarius was identified as crucial by André Barbault for predicting pandemics.
  • Barbault emphasized the clustering of planets within a narrow range of degrees as a key factor in predicting significant events.
  • Charles Harvey, influenced by Barbault, became a prominent figure in mundane astrology in the UK.
  • The younger generation of astrologers has seen a resurgence in interest in astrology, contrasting with a decline in skepticism.
  • Astrology is viewed with disdain by academia and scientists, leading to challenges in dealing with skeptics and changing their perspectives.
  • Balancing skeptical rigor with disciplined imagination and empirical evidence is crucial for astrologers to gain credibility and communicate effectively.

02:57:33

Astrology's Evolution: From Skepticism to Sophistication

  • The goal of the book "Cosmos and Psyche" was to introduce people to the power of the astrological perspective and empirical data.
  • The book aimed to provide a philosophical and historical context for readers to understand astrology.
  • "The Passion of the Western Mind" was written as a precursor to "Cosmos and Psyche" to prepare readers for an astrological worldview.
  • Astrology faced skepticism in the 70s despite statistical support, leading to a protective insular mode.
  • Statistical research in astrology was considered reductive and not nuanced enough to capture astrological correlations.
  • Recent years have seen an increase in interest in a more sophisticated approach to astrological research.
  • Dean Radin suggested using fuzzy categories for statistical analysis to encompass archetypal multivalence.
  • Transformation of epistemology is necessary for individuals to open up to astrology and expanded forms of knowing.
  • The human senses are crucial in astrology for accurately understanding correlations and symbolic importance.
  • There is a movement in higher education to elevate the importance of humanities alongside the sciences for a more holistic education.

03:16:30

Pluto's Dwarf Planet Classification Sparks Debate

  • Owen Gingerich, an expert on Copernicus and Kepler, disagreed with the decision to classify Pluto as a dwarf planet.
  • The criteria for a dwarf planet include the ability to clear its neighborhood of other bodies.
  • Planetary scientists view the decision as temporary and possibly erroneous.
  • Planets were originally defined as wanderers, including the Sun and Moon.
  • Pluto's classification as a dwarf planet did not diminish its astrological significance.
  • Eris was initially thought to be larger and more massive than Pluto, but Pluto is slightly larger.
  • New discoveries in the solar system reveal its permeable nature and connection to the galaxy.
  • Pluto's demotion in 2006 led to more scientific interest, revealing a rock core and water beneath its surface.
  • Astronomers and astrologers have differing perspectives on Pluto's classification.
  • The discovery of new celestial bodies like Sedna and potential future discoveries may reshape our understanding of the universe.

03:34:55

"Changing of The Gods" Film Launches Feb 22

  • The film "Changing of The Gods" is set to be launched on February 22nd, 2022, with a pre-launch period in February where one episode will be shown daily for free before the full launch.
  • The film is based on Richard Tarnas' book "Cosmos and Psyche" and examines the patterns and meanings set out in the book in relation to Uranus and Pluto alignments.
  • Kenny Ausubel conceived the film, which was a collaborative effort involving Max DeArmon, Theo Badashi, and Louie Schwartzberg, aiming to keep the astrology accurate.
  • The film features major thinkers, visionaries, and activists, including Stan Grof, and will provide insight into historical cycles related to Pluto.
  • The director of the film, Kenny, will be interviewed on an upcoming episode of the astrology podcast, offering more in-depth understanding of Pluto's meaning through historical cycles.
  • The podcast, hosted by Chris, is supported by patrons on Patreon, offering bonus content, early access to episodes, and access to live recordings of monthly forecasts.
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