Thankful for the Rain | Jupiter Retrograde in Aquarius

“You can’t truly appreciate the rain until you’ve been through the desert.”

Crossing the cusp, a retrograde Jupiter begins its backwards trek to 22’ Aquarius. We’ve had a taste of just how soothing the Greater Benefic in Pisces can be. The relief offered was akin to a brisk rain shower on an arid, summer day - greatly appreciated, but does little to relieve the constant heat.

As discussed in July’s forecast, this transit can highlight opportunities to re-frame one’s inner perspective. It’s less about the glass being half-full, and more about how grateful you are to have a glass in the first place. Experiences had between March and May of this year may resurface in some form as Jupiter transits these familiar degrees for a second time. This seems apt for considering how previous lessons have served to broaden our worldviews.

When Jupiter was last between 29-22 degrees of Aquarius, pandemic-borne anxieties were (and still are) prevalent. A new variant appeared, along with safety concerns made known by multiple countries. Social unrest stemming from the Myanmar coup continues, while Columbia and Berlin saw their own spate of protests and demonstrations.

Jupiter’s primary function is to elevate, and he does this excellently when in his domicile. He delights in being the “tide to lift all boats”, (even when they’re wedged in canals) extending hope and optimism to weary spirits. Bearing a warm and moist temperament, he expands and connects to the world through its faiths, cultures, beliefs and philosophies.

Aquarius on the other hand can be cold place: constricting and uncomfortable for some planets. Though deemed a social sign, it lacks the warmth and cohesion that Jupiter embodies. It favors human development, but from a distance. This can make it difficult for Jupiterean principles to adhere, doubly so with Saturn co-present and dignified. Though we won’t find Jupiter return to Pisces until late December, the revisit to this part of the sky might paint a clear picture concerning where we are and how societal improvements might be made.

With retrogrades, there’s a sense that prior unfinished business is nearing an end. Reform within the judicial and legal sector may be a prominent theme for most of it. But its possible this second trip could arrive with plenty lightning but not much rain. Think changes, but only after upheaval; sudden disruption preceding improvement.

Hopefully your spiritual rain barrels are already full, but if not don’t despair. I have a feeling Jupiter’s transit may come with a dowsing lesson or two.