Mercurial Conscious Commandment
The True Edmond Wollmann
http://www.astroconsulting.com/FAQs/mercuria.htm
Edmond H. Wollmann, original draft, November 20, 1995
Short version, June 1997 issue of Horoscope Magazine. Expanded
version January 15, 2000
A thorough understanding of the inherently subjective nature of
knowledge -- especially psychological knowledge -- is a prerequisite
and basic acknowledgment for the analytical discernment of any psyche
(analytical discernment refers to the comprehension of a persona or
psyche of an individual devoid of personal projection bias from
subjective beliefs from the observer). Secondly, without a thorough
and holistic awareness of the entire self (the observing self) we must
necessarily function from a value judgment perspective, simply because
we are not completely aware of the parameters of our own psyche, and
the subjective value judgments the observer may have internalized
through attachment or early environmental schema.
The word judgment will be defined as; the forming of an estimate,
opinion, notion, or conclusion as from circumstances presented to the
mind (generalized Webster dictionary definition). But there are many
levels of mind; Conscious, subconscious, unconscious, preconscious,
collective unconscious and finally, higher conscious mind. It is the
conscious mind that is the interface in physical reality for the other
"levels" of mind. The greater its awareness, acquiescence, and
participation with these other levels, the greater the individual's
capability for logic, critical thinking from objectivity, and
analytical discernment. Analytical discernment is the ability to
separate, discriminate, and discern the projection of one's own
beliefs and parameters of thought, from the accurate observation of a
belief system or parameter of thought of the observed psyche. This, in
part, occurs from the freeing of the individual from the collective
opinion that is achieved through a recognition of the identity's own
individuality, independent of convention (Uranus). We come to
recognitions of our definitions with the assistance of subjects such
as astrology and psychological testing. But it begins with critical
thinking and logic.
Mercury's sign, position, and aspects tell us much about the
identity's type of interface or conscious mindset that acts as the
lens through which physical reality is discerned. It is the lens
through which the levels of mind outlined above are focused and
refocused. The conscious approach reflected through Mercury's position
and condition is the direct line to the actions of the physical self
and will (Mars) and its ability for redefinition of belief parameters.
Hence, it is the key to reality creation redirection through conscious
commandment, meaning; I understand it, know it, I understand that I
have created it on some level, and thus, and will it to be so.
First, we must clarify some of the elements of logic, critical
thinking, and fallacious reasoning as there may be some untrained or
unfamiliar with this organized body of knowledge derived from
philosophy. Logic is the science of sound reasoning, and "logic
provides a fundamental defense against the prejudiced and uncivilized
attitudes that threaten the foundations of our democratic society."
For our purposes, logic provides an objective approach to analyzing
our belief structures that leads us to a more comprehensive
understanding of our reality experience; because it is "believing is
seeing", not "seeing is believing" from the self-empowered and
awareness oriented approach. This perspective or approach includes the
idea that we are the reality that it seems we exist within. With this
premise in mind, it is logical to infer that if we create our reality
by our definitions held by our psyche, that our psyche must extend
outward to encompass the Universe! (the extent of our reality). Also
it follows, we must logically assume, that the more we expand into the
physical universe, the more we must be expanding our psychic universe.
Because the constellations are just names for the area of space,
extending to infinity around the Earth, that reflect the definitions
held by the psyche either collectively or individually at any given
moment. When planets in transit trigger astrological configurations in
the horoscope, it is these definitions held (beliefs) that are being
triggered. Belief being seen!
A fallacy is a defect in an argument. A false premise for an argument,
is a defect. Acknowledging the logical flow above, the belief that
physical reality exists outside of us is a false premise. Therefore,
logically, if you argue from this world-view and belief, defective
arguments must follow. If the power that affects self definition and
the molding the clay of the psyche is outside of us, we cannot own it
or control it. Therefore, if the constellations and planetary
configurations affect us, it implies we cannot control them,
therefore, we are destined or fated to some degree to be such and
such. How? I ask, can we be aware of the potential to create and
change our destiny, if we cannot do so? Anything we can imagine, must
be real on some level of the psyche or its concievability would not
exist. Many counselors of astrology say -- in their zeal to prove
their craft -- "this is happening because Saturn is transiting" here
or there. This removes power from the individual and places it with
Saturn! This view dis-arms rather than empowers the client. To be
precise, a prediction of future probabilities and their unfolding is a
sensing of the momentum of the current definitions and their probable
outcome should the energy not change. Regardless of the methods used
by the person doing the perceiving. The horoscope provides us the
ability -- through its mirror-like reflectivity -- to see those other
levels of psychic momentum (that we might not be fully aware of) and
their probable outcome, so that if we do not prefer those definitions
we can redefine them! Therefore, to say that difficulties are arising
because Saturn is in such and such a position is a fallacious and
defective premise for the idea of counsel, empowerment, and service.
It is the individual's definitions that are being manifested in
experience and externalized reality, which is the self! Definitions
cause them, redefinition changes them. Redefinition starts then, by
owning reality, recognizing psychic definitions (which astrology has
no equal in providing the service of), and redefining and acting on
them through conscious commandment. This is what is meant by
"knowledge is power but it must be used"--not information that allows
us to manipulate the reality for self serving ends.
Each part of this process is either enhanced or made difficult by the
position of natal Mercury, which we are born with as the effect of our
belief in conscious command and discernment, that we defined in
previous incarnations. Everything we have and are is the result of
effort and definition. It always works this way, it never doesn't
work, there are no exceptions. We always create our reality 100% even
if we are using 90% to create the illusion that we have only the other
10%. The study of astrology allows us to view the psychic dynamics of
how and why we are creating the reality we are experiencing. Knowing
is not the same as controlling. All we can control is our own
definitions and effort. We must act on that knowledge with the
conviction revealed through willpower. Whatever ideas we trust, act as
the catalyst of reality creation, and brings the universe into
movement. We paint the picture, the universe is the infinite palette.
If trust is placed in the belief that life is most likely to be full
of things we don't prefer by acting on what we don't prefer because we
believe we "must", the Universe will bring us a multitude of
opportunities to do things we don't prefer.
The symbol of Mercury e represents the reception (crescent) of spirit
(circle) through matter (cross). Mercury is the antenna that receives
sense impressions and ideas that we create and project into
physicality. We see the world through our Mercury. As the natural
ruler of Gemini and Virgo (Dignity see Disposition) Mercury reconciles
the apparent duality of polarity in physical reality, and allows us a
choice to participate in one or more aspects of the focused dualistic
expressions, hence its dual rulership. The Sun (or any other star) is
the point in space/time where spirit is transformed and shines through
into the third dimension of physicality (black holes are the higher
octave of suns or star centers). Mercury is the Oculus or lens of the
observer of the dimension we inhabit. It observes facts, information,
logic, and other parameters of this reality.
Because Mercury is the lens of conscious perception, it functions best
in signs that deal with specificity, duality, and focus. It does not
function well in signs that deal with breadth of vision, ego focus, or
emotional subjectivity. These issues detract from critical assessment
and detached discernment. The clearer the lens, the less distorted the
picture.
In its Dignity in the Air element Gemini, the diversity and duality of
idea interaction takes on the qualities of a remote control with the
ability to jump from idea to idea, subject to subject, channel to
channel with no special bias to any of them, and a simple and clear
perception of all of them. Perception of the duality is comfortable
with little interference from belief. A good analogy is the computer
chip, swift and flawless diversification of information. The use of
that information is determined by the rest of the configuration
(chart).
In its Dignity in the Earth element Virgo, the duality and interaction
of ideas is applied to physical and pragmatic concerns. The
discriminatory functions enhance frugality, efficiency, and economy.
Gemini is the facile driver of the car, Virgo streamlines the assembly
line that builds it, and continually refines the smooth interaction of
the parts that decrease errors in functioning.
Planets in developmental tension with Mercury (square or opposition,
or in a lesser way semisquares and sesquiquadrates) distort the lens
with the issues and archetype of the planet involved. This condition
reflects bias. A heavily negatively aspected Mercury indicates that
the issues of the personality's conflicts are determining and coloring
the analytical and observational process (see projection). Positive
aspects (sextile and trine) indicate that the mental functions have
incorporated and integrated the positive functions of the planet
involved in the aspect into physical focus. That archetype is
understood well. When Mercury is retrograde the communication and
thought processes are in a state of reassessment because of insecurity
and/or repression.
In Aspect with...
Sun-a conjunction is the only major aspect and reflects a strong
preoccupation with the sign concept. If a superior conjunction, a
confidence and focus within the sign of occurrence. If inferior (m)
insecurity with the power of the intellect. When Mercury is ahead of
the Sun there is more eagerness and swiftness to the mentality,
behind, slower and more deliberate. With the Moon-a focus on beliefs
about image fulfillment and emotional security, Venus-values, social
worth and acceptance, Mars-identity concerns, ego importance and self
assertion, Jupiter-philosophical beliefs, abundance, and the ability
to expand, Saturn-fears, beliefs about limitation and powerlessness,
Uranus-individuality and creative interaction, Neptune-identity
dissolution, idealism, and God, Pluto-sex, perspective, personal
significance, and transformation.
Mercury's sign and aspects in the natal chart reflects the type and
quality of psychological approach to thinking and conscious
commandment the individual needs. The astrologer must be at or above
the vibrational level of awareness of the client in order to be of
service in increasing awareness through consultation. No one can
interpret or advise a life or level at which they themselves cannot,
or have not, functioned. One man's ceiling is another man's floor.
The following is a brief key of the psychological needs of Mercury
through the signs;
In Aries-Unless there are stabilizing configurations, the need to be
ego important and first stimulates temperament, impulse and
anxiousness. With stablizing connections (see Einstein) there can be
brilliant exploration. Your fears about being last or ignored,
accentuates impulsiveness and the quest, which may blind you to the
truth, and the benefits of wisdom gained over time.
Taurus-Values and issues of self efficacy interfere with Mercurial
flexibility. The individual needs to think in structured terms. If
less insecurity is shown through the rest of the horoscope a
remarkable value structure may be built. Your strong fear of losing
functional control may actually create that scenario because a fear is
a belief.
Gemini-A communication antenna. Sensitive and articulate with
information. When negatively aspected. nervousness, scattered
thinking, and rationalization. You fear a lack of appreciation for
your intelligence, and if you're not focused and apply the self
diligently-- you won't be.
Cancer-You need to think in romantic or intuitive terms. Whether this
intuition is accurate or not depends on the stability of the rest of
the identity. This stability would be reflected in an ability to
critically assess yourself and others without a fear of ridicule. Your
fear is that an advantage can be had through appeals to the emotions.
Leo-Mercury in Leo can be warm, but it can also be loud with the ego
blinded to its own inaccuracies. You can see large points of view as
long as they don't contain a critical assessment of yourself which you
don't like. This position is not especially objective. The ego needs
to be removed from logical analyses. Observation suffers. Your fear of
being ignored tends to detract from humility. He who thinks he knows,
doesn't, he who knows he doesn't, does.
Virgo-Your sense impressions are rarely taken at face value. You
realize the possibility of inaccuracy. This aids in analytical
discernment because you don't just see something, you categorize it,
which allows you an efficient method of thinking. Just make sure that
this is not the end of the significance, because through too much
categorization you can remove the spirit of living. You fear losing
control and may allow you to become judgmental and lose breadth of
vision.
Libra-You need to think in pleasing or perhaps artistic terms. This is
a fine reflective position that aids objectivity. If this is not taken
to extremes it can be a plus in balancing alternatives and ideas. Try
not to make seeing all sides an end in itself. You must then act on
the information. Your fear of not being socially appreciated is the
reason for your difficulty in taking a stand.
Scorpio-The need for emotional significance in your thoughts about
things, may color your thinking to such a degree that objective
analysis may not be possible. If you cultivate the objectivity, the
depth of your thinking may allow for profundity. Secretiveness is the
effect of a fear of being taken for granted emotionally. Realize that
significance can be implied as well as "real."
Sagittarius-Your opinions and ideas are broad, swift, and grand. The
greatest plan in the world will go nowhere without pilot programs to
find functional flaws. This is why Sagittarius is a difficult
placement for Mercury. Your fear is that your intellect will be
ignored or minimized and you try to be all-encompassing in your
presentation. If you know it is a good idea it will endure revisions
and testing, it'll fly with its own wings, and you don't have to make
sure by giving it some before hand.
Capricorn-You have a practical reaction to information and sense
impressions. This is excellent for practical and material matters, but
it may bog down philosophical or more diverse application to aesthetic
subjects. This stems from the fear of losing strategic control of
communication issues. If you can add imagination to your acute sense
perceptions, your mind will know no limits.
Aquarius-The need to think in individualistic terms adds much to
innovation and diversity, which is a necessary element of thinking of
things in any reality. But when the facts present themselves you could
learn from the above sign Capricorn, that your individual spin on it
does not necessarily make it so. Your fear of being pigeonholed is the
reason you may reject cold hard facts. On the other hand, are there
really any? You may be the one to change them.
Pisces-Unless there are mitigating aspects or you train your mind in a
more objective fashion (taking lessons from Mercury in Gemini or
Virgo), there is a strong tendency to feel your way through thinking
(allowing belief projection to dominate the lens). This doesn't mean
that your always wrong, but there is nothing wrong with knowing the
reasons for things. You fear that cold hard logic takes advantage of
sympathetic souls and you won't be the perpetrator of that. But if
someone is kept from the truth, it may be far more dangerous and cruel
than momentary intellectual readjustment on your part or theirs. A
word to the wise is sufficient.
In Analysis
In the horoscope of Carl Sagan we see a low count in the Air element
(a low threshold of belief in idea interaction).
The reigning need of the identity is to have the ideas and
intellectual opinions acknowledged with the Moon in Sagittarius.
Mercury is in Scorpio. The thinking needs are for emotional impact.
The retrograde state implies an insecurity with the thinking. Its
conjunction to Jupiter indicates that the expansion of emotional
significance is the driving force in the thought processes.
Overcompensation may be overconfidence. Mercury is disposed of by
Pluto in 3 (perspective alteration) which in turn is disposed of by
the moon in Sagittarius in 8 (more transformation and perspective/
significance acuity). There would be fixity and stubbornness (Taurus
ascendant, Scorpio emphasis). It is not immediately apparent but the
opposition to Uranus in twelve gives us the final clue that there is
little objectivity and a lot of personal bias toward "significance" in
the thought processes. Although the Scorpio planets are in 6, (the
natural house of discernment) transformation of projections would may
be difficult (A strong fixed sign momentum). Uranus reflects
unconscious forgotten knowledge and wisdom. Its opposition to Mercury
is reflective of the need to wake up this knowledge (of spontaneous
self trust), and implies rigidity in perspective (sixth and twelfth
houses) and is part of the reason for incarnation (twelfth). Mercury
opposed Uranus reflects a "know-it-all" attitude. A need to de-
structurize thinking. Mercury's dispositorship of the Neptune/Mars
(twelfth ruler) conjunction reflects a self-intoxication with his own
ideas, not unlike Charles Manson born 3 days later! He, of course has
channeled this energy more constructively with the moon in
Sagittarius, but still, the drive to alter and affect perspective
(personally and collectively) is evident. The difference between them
is only the application of energy (positive/negative), sense of power,
and flexibility. Powerless attitudes breed a lack of integrity. It
would have behooved him to study astrology to aid insight into the
psyche rather than denounce it. His denunciation without investigation
and study proves the subjectivity just outlined. He did know, absence
of evidence, is not evidence of absence, and positively rejected the
scientific denigration through bigotry of astrology by his peers:
Several years ago, at the instigation of astronomer Bart J. Bok, the
HUMANIST circulated it's famous anti-astrology manifesto. This
document wound up being signed by some 200 scientists and university
professors, some Nobel Prize winners. The idea being to put an end,
once and for all, to public interest and belief in the nebulous pseudo-
science (not very objective!). After all, these are scientists;
objective students of observation, right? Wrong!
The only one that made an intelligent response to the HUMANIST, was
Carl Sagan. In his letter to the editor, he stated:
"I find myself unable to endorse the "Objections to Astrology"
statement, not because I feel that astrology has any validity
whatsoever, but because I felt and still feel that the tone of the
statement is authoritarian. The fundamental point is not that the
origins of astrology are shrouded in superstition. This is true as
well for chemistry, medicine, and astronomy, to mention only three. To
discuss the psychological motivation of those who believe in astrology
seems to me quite peripheral to the issue of its validity. That we can
think of no mechanism for astrology is relevant but unconvincing. No
mechanism was known, for example, for continental drift when it was
proposed by Wegener. Nevertheless, we see that Wegener was right, and
those who objected on the grounds of unavailable mechanism were wrong.
Statements...that appear to have an authoritarian tone...confirm the
impression that scientists are rigid and closed-minded."
This may have been one of his yet-unrecognized, most powerful
statements based on real logic and objectivity, instead of over-
dramatized "billions and billions" statements designed to impact
rather than inform listeners. The Sun rules four and squares Saturn to
ten. There was tremendous ambition to establish (fourth) analytical
(six) status (ten) with others thinking (Saturn rules nine).
In the horoscope of Steven Spielberg we also have strong needs for
emotional significance (Moon, Jupiter, and Venus in Scorpio, and
square Pluto).
It is directed to creative extension (5th). Mercury in Sagittarius
tends to blurring, but here we have a double applying trine to Saturn
in two and Saturn disposes of Mars exalted in six in Capricorn. There
is comfort in execution of his work (six) to social issues (Mars rules
eleven). There is a strong need to prove worth (Sun/Moon blend, Saturn/
Pluto in two).
Here the Uranus opposing the Sun is meant to wake up self worth (two)
and innovative mental approaches (Close Encounters, Jurassic Park
etc.) and issues. This independent perspective has served him well,
although even with his Mercury trine Saturn some details missing have
been noted in his films. There is the need to merge the real and ideal
(Saturn sextile Neptune) that supports the collective consciousness in
this perspective alteration in his private search for the reassessment
of values (Saturn/Pluto conjunct and retrograde in two) through drama
(Leo) and film (sextile Neptune in four ruling ten). Interesting to
note that he was born right after the end of World war 2 (Saving
Private Ryan).
We see the (physical) world through Mercury, it rules the sense of
sight. It is the eyes of the spirit in the physical world. It is
reflective of the personified idea of the logos through the
individual. The Universe is the manifestation of all the different
ways that God has of thinking itself into existence, in its search for
its own source. We are those ideas, and a part of that search. Time
and space reflect the sequential experience of ideas that actually
exist all-at-once, therefore, thinking is not only the best way to
travel, it is the only way. Because nothing is really "going"
anywhere. All experience in physicality is observed through the lens
of Mercury as a film, frame by frame, appearing distinct and separate.
But the "film" is really all one story composed of many. Mercury is
our vehicle through which we view the film and choose our story. But
we determine the quality of our lens on that journey through conscious
commandment, and chose the reality we believe in, when we trust it.
Discerning what that reality actually is and owning it, allows us to
produce the film the way we prefer. Because there is no one film we
must be in, but rather an open theater to chose the one we prefer.
Only after knowing our choices in the current story, by standing back
and observing the limits of the production, can we will it to be a
different story if we so choose.
"He who knows others is clever, he who knows himself has discernment."
Lao-Tzu, 6th century B.C.
Edmond H. Wollmann P.M.A.F.A.
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