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Mars reborn in Scorpio: a new synodic cycle begins 18th November 2023



About Scorpio


Key characteristics associated with Scorpio:

  1. Ruler: Mars: This planetary influence lends Scorpio its assertive, passionate, and intense nature.

  2. Water Sign: Scorpio is one of the three water signs in the zodiac, alongside Cancer and Pisces. Water signs are known for their emotional depth, intuition, and sensitivity. Scorpio's water element adds a profound emotional and psychic dimension to its nature.

  3. Fixed Sign: Scorpio is a fixed sign, along with Taurus, Leo, and Aquarius. Fixed signs are known for their stability, determination, and resistance to change. Scorpio's fixed nature manifests in a determined and tenacious approach to achieving its goals.

  4. Feminine Sign: Scorpio is classified as a feminine or receptive sign. Feminine signs are associated with qualities such as receptivity, introspection, and nurturing. Scorpio's femininity adds a depth of emotion and intuition to the sign.

  5. Keywords and Themes: Scorpio is often associated with keywords such as intensity, passion, secrecy, power, transformation, and regeneration. Individuals with strong Scorpio influences in their chart are believed to be perceptive, investigative, and have a keen ability to delve into the hidden aspects of life.

  6. Challenges and Growth: The intense and transformative nature of Scorpio can also pose challenges, such as a tendency towards jealousy, possessiveness, or the potential for being overly secretive.


About Mars


In Hellenistic astrology, Mars is considered one of the malefic planets, along with Saturn. The malefic planets were traditionally associated with challenges, difficulties, and adversity. Mars is the ruler of both Aries and Scorpio, and its influence is characterised by its fiery and assertive nature. Here are some key points about Mars:

  1. Nature and Sect: One of the most fundamental concepts in Hellenistic astrology is the distinction between day and night charts, which is known as "sect". From a practical standpoint, sect is a qualitative distinction that primarily alters the way that the benefics (Jupiter and Venus) and malefics (Saturn and Mars) function in a given chart. According to this concept, the planets are divided into two teams, or "sects". There is a day team led by The Sun and a night team led by The Moon. Mars is the malefic assigned to the night (or nocturnal) sect alongside the benefic Venus.

  2. Temperament: Mars, the 'fiery one', is characterised by qualities such as heat, dryness, and assertiveness and is active, dynamic, and goal-oriented. Mars' temperament aligns with His fiery and hot qualities, emphasising His assertive and sometimes aggressive nature.

  3. Martial Symbolism: Our best source for the significations of the planets is Vettius Valens (b. 120 CE - c. 175 CE) whose Anthology begins with a long chapter on the meanings of each of the planets. According to Valens, Mars signifies violence, wars, robbery, banishment, captivity, rape, abortions, sex, anger, fighting, hatred and lawsuits. He brings about those who work with fire or iron, those who work with their hands, leaders and military service, soldiers, sovereignty. He rules over the head, the buttocks, and the genitals. He rules iron, and wine and is the colour red and pungent in taste. Mars represents the principle of separation and division, as opposed to the unifying and cohesive nature associated with Venus.

  4. House Placement: The placement of Mars in a specific house in the birth chart will indicate the area of life where the individual is likely to express their assertive and energetic qualities. For example, Mars in the seventh house might suggest a dynamic approach to relationships, while Mars in the tenth house could indicate assertiveness in career matters.

  5. Aspects: The aspects that Mars makes with other planets in the birth chart are also significant. Challenging aspects, such as squares and oppositions, may indicate potential areas of conflict and tension, while harmonious aspects, such as trines and sextiles, can signify a more easeful expression of Mars' energy.


About the Mars Synodic Cycle

An astrology chart of the transits 18/11/23
Mars in the heart of The Sun 18th November 2023

The Mars synodic cycle refers to the recurring pattern of conjunctions between Mars and the Sun as observed from Earth. A synodic cycle is the time it takes for a planet to return to the same position in the sky relative to the Sun and Earth. For Mars, this cycle is approximately 780 days or about two years.

Here's a breakdown of the Mars synodic cycle:

  1. Conjunction (Mars-Sun Alignment): The Mars synodic cycle begins with the conjunction, where Mars aligns with the Sun in the same zodiacal position. This marks the start of a new cycle.

  2. Mars' Retrograde Motion: As Mars continues its orbit, it periodically appears to move backward in the sky due to the differing orbital speeds of Mars and Earth. This is known as retrograde motion. Mars goes retrograde roughly every 26 months, and during this time, it appears to move backward through the zodiac.

  3. Opposition (180-Degree Separation): About halfway through the synodic cycle, Mars reaches opposition, where it is directly opposite the Sun in the sky. This means Mars is visible throughout the night and is at its brightest. Opposition occurs roughly every 15 to 17 months.

  4. Direct Motion and Return to Conjunction: After the period of retrograde motion, Mars resumes its normal, direct motion and continues its orbit until it returns to conjunction with the Sun. This completes the synodic cycle, and a new cycle begins.

Astrologically, these phases of the Mars synodic cycle can be considered in interpreting the energy associated with Mars at different times. For example, the conjunction is seen as a new beginning or initiation of Mars related themes, while the opposition may represent a time of culmination or heightened Mars energy.


The Conjunction: Mars Reborn in Scorpio A new cycle begins


A new cycle means a new opportunity:

  1. Mars in Scorpio: This combination can intensify the Martian qualities. Mars in Scorpio is often associated with a deep, passionate, and transformative energy. It suggests a focus on profound changes and a willingness to delve into the depths of one's emotions and desires.

  2. Feminine Sign: The idea of Mars in a feminine sign might suggest a more receptive or internalized expression of Martian energy. Rather than the more overtly assertive or aggressive Mars, there could be a focus on harnessing Mars' energy in a more introspective or emotionally connected way.

  3. Inner Trust and Faith: Scorpio is a sign associated with trust and transformation. With Mars in Scorpio, there may be an emphasis on trusting one's inner instincts and navigating the transformative process with courage and faith. This could involve embracing change from within, recognizing that personal growth often requires facing and overcoming deep-seated fears or challenges.

  4. Awareness of Change from Within: The notion that "as within, so without" aligns with the transformative potential of Mars in Scorpio. The emphasis here is on inner change influencing external circumstances. This period may encourage a focus on personal empowerment, self-love, and the understanding that one's actions and attitudes can shape external realities.

Plato’s notion that changing our thinking can influence our reality echoes the concept:



The power of perception, mindset, and consciousness is a common theme in spiritual and self-development teachings.


In the context of Mars in Scorpio, changing our mind involves not only altering thought patterns but also transforming deep-seated beliefs and emotions. The transformation journey is about navigating the internal landscape, facing shadows, and embracing the potential for renewal. By doing so, we can influence our external reality through a harmonious alignment of inner intentions, emotions, and assertive actions. And,


Harmony within = harmony without


Mars through the houses

In Hellenistic astrology, the use of whole sign houses is a traditional approach. In this system, each house encompasses an entire sign, starting from the Ascendant. The concept of houses plays a crucial role in understanding how planetary energies manifest in specific areas of life. The houses represent different spheres of human experience and provide context for the expression of planetary energies. Let's explore how the principle of "as within, so without" in the context of Mars in Scorpio might relate to each house placement:

  1. First House (House of Self): With Mars in Scorpio in the first house, there may be a heightened focus on personal transformation and self-discovery. The individual's assertiveness and energy may be directed toward cultivating a deeper understanding of their own identity. Inner trust and faith can influence how the person presents themselves to the world, potentially leading to a more magnetic and intense presence.

  2. Second House (House of Finances and Values): Mars in Scorpio in the second house could manifest as a passionate and intense approach to financial matters. The individual might be driven to transform their financial situation and values. The principle suggests that inner trust and faith in their abilities to manage resources could influence positive external shifts in financial matters.

  3. Third House (House of Communication): Mars in Scorpio in the third house may indicate a communicative style that is deep, intense, and assertive. The person may feel compelled to express themselves with emotional depth and passion. The principle implies that trusting in their ability to communicate authentically and assertively from within can impact external relationships and interactions.

  4. Fourth House (House of Home and Family): Mars in Scorpio in the fourth house may signify a transformative energy within the home and family sphere. There could be a focus on intense emotional connections with family members and a desire to create a secure and transformative home environment. Trusting in the process of emotional depth and transformation within the family dynamics can influence the external harmony of the home.

  5. Fifth House (House of Creativity and Pleasure): Mars in Scorpio in the fifth house may bring a passionate and transformative approach to creative pursuits and pleasures. The individual might express themselves with intensity and depth in artistic endeavours. Trusting in their creative instincts and having faith in their ability to manifest joy and pleasure can influence external experiences in this area.

  6. Sixth House (House of Work and Health): Mars in Scorpio in the sixth house suggests an intense and transformative energy in matters of work and health. The individual may approach daily tasks and routines with deep passion. Inner trust and faith in their ability to navigate challenges in work and health can impact external well-being.

  7. Seventh House (House of Relationships): In the context of relationships, Mars in Scorpio in the seventh house may indicate a passionate and transformative approach to partnerships. The individual may seek deep emotional connections and transformation through relationships. Trusting in their ability to navigate the complexities of partnerships can influence the dynamics of external relationships.

  8. Eighth House (House of Transformation and Shared Resources): Mars in Scorpio in the eighth house is a powerful placement, as both Mars and Scorpio are associated with transformation. This suggests an intense focus on shared resources, deep emotional bonds, and transformative experiences. Inner trust and faith in the process of shared transformation can influence external outcomes in joint ventures and shared resources.

  9. Ninth House (House of Philosophy and Higher Learning): With Mars in Scorpio in the ninth house, there may be a passionate and transformative approach to philosophical and higher learning pursuits. The individual might seek profound insights and experiences in their quest for knowledge. Trusting in their inner wisdom and having faith in their philosophical beliefs can influence external experiences in this realm.

  10. Tenth House (House of Career and Public Image): Mars in Scorpio in the tenth house suggests an assertive and transformative approach to career and public image. The person may pursue a career path with intensity and depth, seeking transformation and recognition. Inner trust and faith in their career pursuits can influence external success and public perception.

  11. Eleventh House (House of Friendships and Community): Mars in Scorpio in the eleventh house may indicate an intense and transformative approach to friendships and community involvement. The person might seek deep, meaningful connections within social circles. Trusting in their ability to contribute passionately to collective goals can influence external dynamics in friendships and community endeavours.

  12. Twelfth House (House of Spirituality and Endings): In the twelfth house, Mars in Scorpio suggests an intense and transformative connection to spirituality and a willingness to confront subconscious patterns. Trusting in the process of inner transformation and having faith in the spiritual journey can influence external outcomes, leading to a more profound connection with the unseen realms.

It's important to note that the interpretation of Mars in Scorpio in each house is a general overview, and individual charts may vary. Additionally, other factors, such as aspects and the overall planetary picture in the natal chart, can provide further nuances to the analysis.


If you don't know the house where Scorpio lands in your chart I can provide you with a free digital picture of your birth chart. Get in touch with your details here and I'll send it to you as soon as I can.


If you'd like to delve deeper into your chart and look at this Mars cycle or just have a more general reading about who you are and what your life journey may entail, then book a one to one consultation with me here. There is loads of information on my website including what to expect from a reading with me and the story of my journey. Explore.


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