The phases of the moon are among most fascinating astronomical behaviors we can observe with the naked eye, and deeply rich sources of thought and interpretation in Astrology. Among the 9 phases – New, Waxing Crescent, 1st Quarter Half, Waxing Gibbous, Full, Waning Gibbous, Last Quarter Half, Waning Crescent, and Balsamic – the New and Full Moons capture most of the attention.
This article will look at the current New Moon and suggest a “creation activity” associated with the sign of this New Moon, based on the work of Jan Spiller, from her book: New Moon Astrology: The Secret of Astrological Timing to Make All Your Dreams Come True.
New Moon – Let’s Start Something!
The Sagittarius New Moon will occur on December 12th at 20 degrees and 40 minutes; in my Eastern Standard Time zone, it will happen at 6:32 pm.
It takes 29.5 days from one New Moon to the next, spending approximately 2 and ½ days in a sign. Just before the New Moon begins, the last period (3 days) of the previous moon phase (Waning Crescent) is known as the Balsamic Moon. That period is ideal for meditating, reflecting, and releasing; all in preparation for the New Moon.
The first 12 to 24 hours after the New Moon begins is an ideal time to initiate energy. We will explore each New Moon using Jan Spiller’s suggested actions to see how best to take advantage of this period of inspiration and creation.
The energy of the New Moon is perfectly suited for embarking on a first date, exploring novel experiences, visiting uncharted places, or expressing your creativity through art and words. It’s an opportunity that unfolds each month, inviting you to synchronize your actions with the fresh beginnings symbolized by the Moon’s presence in its current zodiac sign. By keeping track of the New Moon, you can make a deliberate effort to engage in something new or initiate a project that aligns with the Moon’s unique energies as it travels through different signs.
New Moon in Sagittarius
The New Moon in Sagittarius, a sign celebrated for its adventurous spirit and expansive energy, inaugurates a phase of exciting new beginnings. This lunar cycle prompts exploration of diverse ideas, a thirst for knowledge, and a pursuit of truth. It’s a great time for setting intentions related to personal growth, expanding horizons, and embracing a philosophical approach to life. Sagittarius’ energy invites us to embark on a journey of discovery, fostering a sense of optimism and a desire for greater understanding. With the New Moon in Sagittarius, we can manifest aspirations that align with our experienced and visionary spirit.
This New Moon will occur at 20d40m of Sagittarius, making its Sabian symbol 21 Sagittarius, “A child and a dog with borrowed eyeglasses.” Jones says, “This is a symbol of man’s unimpeachable universal spirit, and of his realization that there are no absolute lines of demarcation between higher and lower life or between the varying stages of competency to be found in each. Self-consciousness requires a supplementation of its capacities in the structures and materials of each particular plane of being, and individuality develops as it enters into reality through its own characteristic modes of insight.” The key word is: EXAMINATION.
The Numbers of This New Moon
This New Moon will occur on 12/12/2023, so the number for this day is 13, which reduces to 4. The New Moon, aligned with the number 4 and gracing Sagittarius, infuses our relationships with transformative and regenerative energies. The number 4 prompts us to build sturdy foundations, compelling us to strengthen our bonds. Sagittarius’ expansive influence encourages exploration of the broader aspects of our connections, making this lunar phase ideal for healing and releasing old patterns. It presents an opportunity to set intentions for the complete renewal of relationships, diving into the depths of emotional connection, and addressing hidden issues to foster greater intimacy and growth.
The Major Arcana cards for this number are the Emperor (4) and the Death (13), which represent leadership and transformation, respectively. The Emperor teaches the Fool how to bring order to the world. Death teaches the Fool about the impermanence of life.
The number for the day of this New Moon is 12, which reduces to 3. The New Moon, coinciding with a numerology 3 day in Sagittarius, marks a dynamic period for transformative inner work in relationships. It prompts exploration of emotional depths, addressing hidden issues, and setting intentions for complete healing and transformation. This lunar phase aligns with Sagittarius’ expansive energy, emphasizing the pursuit of risks and liberation from old patterns.
New Moon Wishing (A Tribute to Jan Spiller’s Work)
I deeply appreciate the practical applications of astrology, and one gem I stumbled upon is Jan Spiller’s book, “New Moon Astrology: The Secret of Astrological Timing to Make All Your Dreams Come True.” Spiller emphasizes that wishing is not mere idle desire but a conscious act of responsibility. To harness this energy, you must be aware of the New Moon’s timing in your time zone and act within 8 to 24 hours after its activation.
Once the New Moon’s energy is underway, it’s essential to take pen to paper, whether using a note card or a leather-bound journal. Though digital options abound, handwriting your wishes and intentions is integral to the energy ritual.
Spiller advises crafting up to 10 wishes, as an excess of requests may dissipate energy. Personally, I vary between 3 to 7 wishes, depending on the specific New Moon and my life circumstances at the time. Aligning your statements with the New Moon’s sign on the day you write your intentions adds an extra layer of potency to the process.
Wishes/Intentions
Knowing your chart will help you understand which New Moons will be stronger, while others may be weaker. So, here’s the “nuts and bolts”. Sit down somewhere you can be comfortable, get your favorite pen, and write your wishes/intentions. Wording is very important, and Spiller suggests starting each sentence with, “I wish/want …”.
Here are some sample wishes when the New Moon is in Sagittarius:
- I wish to embark on a journey of exploration and expand my horizons.
- I want to manifest a sense of adventure and spontaneity in my life.
- I wish to release limiting beliefs and embrace a more optimistic perspective.
- I want to let go of routine and welcome exciting opportunities for growth.
- I wish to manifest a deeper understanding of diverse cultures and philosophies.
- I want to dive into learning experiences that broaden my worldview and enrich my life.
After jotting down your wishes, find a meaningful place for safekeeping and revisit them periodically. Placing them in a journal or a special box by your bedside can be a wonderful choice. Remember that the choice of paper, the pen you use, and the location you select all play a role in this process. Being deliberate in every detail is key.
Furthermore, delving deeper into this subject, consider exploring Jan Spiller’s book. This article serves as an introduction, but if you want to truly uncover the richness of her insights, there’s no substitute for reading all 312 pages of her book.
Happy New Moon Wishing!
By Philip Young, PhD
Philip Young, PhD, is a spiritual adviser located in Cary, North Carolina. He provides spiritual guidance using different tools: astrology, tarot/oracle cards, numerology, and past life regression (using muscle testing).
