Editor's Note: Way back when we were pondering the new format of Aspects and what we would endeavour to present to our readers, the Monthly Forum column came up as an idea - the main thrust of which was ‘a space where we can share and discuss interesting topical issues around Astrology with our readers, AND more importantly, a place where they can discuss these issues with us'.

Now, more than a year later, we are in the glorious position where we don't have to find these topical interest subject - you, our readers, are the ones supplying them! Monthly Forum has come into its own and we look forward to sharing even more interesting discussions with you in future issues.

Remember to send your feedback, comments, questions & topics for discussion to

From Magsie Kohn:

Dear Isabella

Re: Horary article Aspects (31 August 2006)

I just wish to add something about the collection of light, or as Lilly called it in plain English: "Passing of the astrological buck." Sometimes the two significators of the horary question have already perfected the aspect which provides the wanted answer. The matter could have been answered so much better if the aspect were applying rather than separating. Usually past aspects can not provide the proper answer, because we are not allowed to use it in horary. However, the two significators are still in aspect and this is where the use of translation of light comes in handy.

A planet travelling faster than both significators can carry the light from the one planet to the other, thus reactivating the recently past aspect. In other words a “go-between” planet can bring the two significators into contact with each other. This fast travelling planet then acts as a courier, catching up with the second significator. In that way the energy of the first significator can be transported to the second significator, much like a relay race. This fast planet will then conjunct the second significator and eventually overtake it. This is only the valid if the fast planet comes from a position where it is dignified by the first significator. In other words the fast “go-between” must come from the same team of the relay race and hand the baton over to a member from the related team. It must also not make any other aspect to another planet before reaching the second significator. This will bring “interference” and is not productive for the conclusion.

When the fast planet touches the second significator, the light has been translated and the potency of the separating aspect is momentarily restored between the two significators. This role of courier often falls to the Moon or Mercury, because of the speed they travel at. Whichever energy this planet is coloured with, will be transported to the second significator and have an influence on the outcome. Suppose one or both significators make an applying major aspect to a third planet which will be completed before leaving the sign, this may indicate that at some later stage a third party will enter the situation surrounding the question on a voluntary basis with an option to bring the matter to completion. This third planet often represents the third party and points to a possible solution because it makes the energy available by completing the aspect. This is only valid if the aspect supports the ascendant and has some relevance to the Moon. However, if Mercury turns retrograde at this point, refranation takes place. According to Lilly this means a planet fails to complete an aspect. The matter can then not be brought to a conclusion.

There is a lot of confusion between reception, which is actually mutual reception and the essential dignity of a planet (significator) Take another look at the relay race. The baton can not be passed to anybody. It must be passed to a member of the same team. The same applies to this ”reception”. It must be of relevance to the host receiving it, in other words, the planet which comes into contact with the energy brought over from the “go-between” planet must be able to relate to it. This means simply that for instance the Moon understands the element of water better than fire. If she brings water to a fiery Mars the result will not be very helpful for a settlement and satisfactory answer. The host must be able to cater for the baton to safely deliver it. If Saturn wants to collect the light from Mars it will be successful if Saturn is in a dignified position to do so. This means that Saturn must be friendly towards Mars and cater for the fire by wearing a red cap. Saturn must be in some part of the zodiac where Mars has dignity.

Is it possible for you to give me some input on your nodal information or some version of your ASSA talk on the nodes?

Regards, Magsie Kohn

From Lynette Rens:

Hullo

If anyone is interested in this, the birth details of Winnie Mandela were in the Saturday Star, Sept 23, and included highlights of her life (which would make rectification possible - I hope).

• She was born in a village near Bizana on 26 September 1936.
• In 1945 her mother died.
• On 19 June 1958 she married Nelson Mandela.
• In 1959 her daughter Zenani was born.
• On 17 May 1977 she was banished to Brandfort in the OFS
• 1991 she was charged with kidnap and murder of Stompie Seipei
• 1992 separated from Nelson
• 1996 divorce finalised

There was far more to it of course, but these are the events I feel would show up in her chart, and other details would perhaps show up once the chart was correct.

Regards, Lynette