Fit for the Job Ahead
There is something almost fated about the rise of Barack Obama to the White House – almost as he is exactly the kind of person that the world now needs. A quick look at his natal chart tells us something of the kind of the man he is. And strangely enough, his chart describes an individual who is perfectly suited to the challenges ahead.
Obama was born with several planets in the sign of Leo, which is associated with confidence, charisma and the willingness to lead. He is happy to take a central role. These planets are found in what is called the 7th house, an area of the chart concerned especially with other people. Planets in Leo describe an individual inclined to follow his own heart, but the 7th house emphasis means he is equally concerned with the impression he makes on other people. This house is connected with matters of diplomacy, law, counsel, negotiation and debate. Those born when the Sun is placed here are often ideally suited to public mediation. Here we have the hallmarks of a charismatic leader, well-equipped in the skills of true statesmanship
What is more, his Leo Sun is found on a midpoint between Venus and Mars. This natural charm, often so abundant when the Sun is found in Leo, is greatly amplified by the union of Venus and Mars. Here we have a man who can appeal to many, possessing the right blend of both masculine and feminine qualities to make him immensely popular. In the art of politics, this is a precious thing.
Yet his ‘fit’ for the job goes far deeper than that. The Moon in his chart is found in Gemini, a sign known for its communication abilities. He is a natural orator, curious about people and gifted in writing and spelling out his ideas. What is more, the Moon is found conjunct his IC, at the bottom of his chart. This point signifies one’s roots and foundations, and when the Moon is found here it describes a strong emotional and intuitive bond to one’s homeland and past. Obama has the ability to speak with the voice of the people because these matters are in fact close to his own heart. He seems to truly care about the affairs of the people, and he can articulate this quite brilliantly.
Jupiter is also prominent in his chart, and this brings us closer to the real job that lies ahead. He was born with Jupiter in Aquarius in his 12th house, an area identified by French statistician Michel Gauquelin as especially powerful in the charts of successful people. Jupiter is in an air sign and connects strongly to his Moon. What is more, it is opposite Mercury, planet of communication and the mind. These three planets combine forces to describe a man of great moral or ethical intention, with a love of learning and ideas that are likely to be broad in their range. He will feel especially passionate about issues of justice and equality, and will look for far-reaching solutions that serve a purpose beyond the immediate. Aquarius was also rising at his birth, so we have a strong indication that his primary mandate is to look for practical but high-minded solutions to social reform.
These qualities seem to have been most powerfully called forth at his inauguration. On the day that he assumed the presidency, both the Sun and Mercury were at the exact same position in Aquarius as Jupiter was when he was born. Several other planets were in Aquarius on that day, implying that the term of this next presidency must involve dealing with reform and collective social issues as part of its’ mandate. Astrologers say that whatever is born of the moment will carry the qualities of that moment, and this presidency has been born with an absolute agenda to make progressive change. The administration must be prepared to incorporate at times radical social and ideological changes if it is to succeed. This may seem obvious, yet it is worth considering how perfectly Obama seems to fit the job ahead. Life has a way of giving us exactly what we need, and Barack Obama seems to be just the right person to lead the United States, and the rest of the world, through at least the next four years.
The real test of his ability should soon start to unfold. Already, (26/1/2009) we have seen a solar eclipse unfold that will have a powerful influence on the US chart. It signifies a separation from America’s past that is in fact embodied by this presidency. But in the middle of this year (July-August) we will experience another set of eclipses that will strongly impact Obama’s chart again. Eclipses come as a series, and their influence can last around 18 months. A powerful series of eclipses falling so soon into his term of office suggests that he must hit the ground running and respond to rapid external challenges if he is to succeed.
We all know the current financial crisis is one of his primary concerns, but 2009 looks set to be exactly the kind of year to test his willingness and true commitment to real social reform. Things are likely to worsen before they can improve. The emphasis on the sign of Aquarius says that the good-of-all must be made his primary objective. Environmental issues should also take centre stage. This presidency will be far from easy, but the current climate of instability is extremely useful for implementing change. In terms of crisis, real progress is made. Barack Obama is clearly a man with a vision, and it is his kind of vision that we in the 21st century so desperately need.
