New Moon in Ashlesha

by James Kelleher August 03, 2024

There will be a new moon in Ashlesha nakshatra on Sunday, August 4th, at 4:13am pacific time. Ashlesha is a nakshatra that is ruled by the Nagas, the deified serpents. In Hindu mythology, the Nagas are the inhabitants of the underworld, the realm that symbolizes the unconscious, so this is a very psychological nakshatra. Ashlesha has three modes of expression, from lower to higher. The first, and lowest, is related to its shakti, the power of poison. This expresses itself as the use of psychological insight, in order to point out the negative traits of other people, in order to drag them down. The second version is related to Ashlesha's desire to defeat its enemies. In this mode, Ashlesha gives the motivation to compete aggressively in order to vanquish opponents or competitors. The quality of this mode is in the middle. There is a time and place for fighting bravely for a legitimate cause, or against a legitimate enemy. On the other hand, warfare is easily perverted. This mode will also be seen in the Paris Olympics, as athletes compete on the playing fields and sports arenas. The third mode is the highest form of Ashesha's expression and is related to the King of the serpents, Shesha Naga, who is a partial incarnation of Vishnu. In this mode, Ashlesha symbolizes pure, awakened consciousness. It gives us the ability to extend unconditional acceptance to those around us, creating a supportive space so that the healing process can take place.

In the following lunar month, we will probably see an increase in the level of backbiting, mudslinging, and aggression between political and military enemies. On the other hand, you don't have to be drawn into those lower forms of activity. The recommendation is to remain detached and open. Cultivate equanimity in the mind and heart, through regular meditation. Extend a sense of healing compassion towards everyone. Don't crawl on your belly, hissing and spitting and injecting venom. Be a positive serpent, not a negative one!
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