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A New Approach to Astrology

Black Moon Lilith in Astrology

Definition and Origin of the Black Moon

The Black Moon, often referred to as Lilith in astrology, is a symbolic point that represents a mysterious and shadowy aspect of our psyche. This concept is named after Lilith, a mythological figure who, according to some traditions, was Adam's first wife before Eve. Lilith symbolizes rebellion, independence, and the shadow of our instinctive nature.

The Black Moon is not a physical celestial body but a mathematical point, defined as the apogee of the Moon's orbit. This means it is the point where the Moon is farthest from the Earth in its elliptical orbit. The Black Moon is often associated with themes of transformation, power, and liberation from constraints.

It is one of the objects often depicted on the natal chart, like the planets, lunar nodes, or asteroids.

Astrology: horoscope and birth chart of Penélope Cruz (Placidus) Image taken from the horoscope, birth chart and astrological portrait of Penélope Cruz, born April 28, 1974, 7:00 AM, Alcobendas (Spain) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 03' 20° 11' 15° 49' 15° 52' 13° 28' 10° 47' 22° 42' 28° 48' 09' 32' 50' 42' 22° 53' 38' 25° 14'
In Penélope Cruz's chart, True Lilith is conjunct the Midheaven in Capricorn.

Methods of Calculating Black Moon Lilith

On Astrotheme, we use the True Black Moon by default. As an option, in certain applications of the site, it is possible to select the Mean Black Moon. These two calculations are the most used; the other two methods are hardly ever used.

To find out the sign and house position of the True or Mean Black Moon in your chart, use the free natal chart application.

Mean Black Moon (Mean Lilith):

Calculation: This is an averaged position, calculated by a uniform and regular motion of the Black Moon.

Usage: Often used in traditional astrology as it is more stable and less subject to fluctuations.

True Black Moon (True Lilith):

Calculation: Takes into account the actual variations and oscillations of the lunar orbit.

Usage: Preferred by some astrologers for a more precise and nuanced interpretation, although more complex due to its method of calculation.

Corrected Black Moon:

Calculation: Adjusted for specific anomalies in the lunar orbit.

Usage: Used by those seeking a balance between the stability of the Mean Black Moon and the precision of the True Black Moon.

Bérault-Harvey Method:

Calculation: A specific method developed by French astrologers Bérault and Harvey, offering a slightly different approach for greater accuracy in predictions.

Usage: Less common but used by some astrologers for specific analyses.

Reliability of Different Black Moon Positions

The reliability of the Black Moon in astrology is subject to debate, not only because of its calculation but also regarding its actual influence in the chart.

It should be noted that there can sometimes be, depending on the chart, a difference of up to twenty degrees between the position of the True Black Moon and the Mean Black Moon, which is considerable, nearly an entire zodiac sign.

The different calculation methods can yield slightly different positions, which can lead to varied interpretations. The Mean Black Moon is generally considered the most stable, while the True Black Moon is more precise but more complex due to its method of calculation. Discrepancies between these positions can sometimes complicate astrological analysis.

Interpretation of the Black Moon in Signs

The position of the Black Moon in an astrological sign reveals hidden aspects of our personality and deep desires. Here is a general overview in terms of keywords:

Astrology: horoscope and birth chart of Marilyn Monroe (Placidus) Image taken from the horoscope, birth chart and astrological portrait of Marilyn Monroe, born June 1, 1926, 9:30 AM, Los Angeles (CA) (United States) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 19° 06' 26° 50' 20° 44' 29° 00' 21° 44' 28° 45' 00' 47' 10° 27' 13° 23' 16° 54' 12° 50' 13° 04' 22° 13' 21° 26'
In Marilyn Monroe's chart, True Lilith is conjunct her Leo Ascendant.

Lilith in Aries

Need for independence and pioneering spirit, but also challenges with aggression and impulsivity.

Lilith in Taurus

Attachment to material pleasures, but also struggles around possession and sensuality.

Lilith in Gemini

Intellectual curiosity and need for communication, with tensions related to duality and dispersion.

Lilith in Cancer

Deep emotional connection, but challenges with security and familial attachments.

Lilith in Leo

Need for recognition and creativity, faced with issues of ego and authority.

Lilith in Virgo

Drive for perfection and analysis, but also difficulties with criticism and meticulousness.

Lilith in Libra

Quest for harmony and balanced relationships, with struggles related to indecision and compromise.

Lilith in Scorpio

Intense desire for transformation and power, but also battles with jealousy and possessiveness.

Lilith in Sagittarius

Thirst for knowledge and adventure, with challenges around commitment and exaggeration.

Lilith in Capricorn

Ambition and structure, confronted with issues of authority and rigidity.

Lilith in Aquarius

Need for independence and innovation, but tensions with conformity and rebellion.

Lilith in Pisces

Deep spiritual connection and empathy, but also challenges with escapism and illusion.

Interpretation of the Black Moon in Houses

The position of the Black Moon in an astrological house provides insights into the areas of life where these intense and sometimes troubling energies manifest.

Here is a summary in a few keywords:

Lilith in the 1st house

Issues of personal identity and self-assertion.

Lilith in the 2nd house

Struggles around material values and financial security.

Lilith in the 3rd house

Tensions in communication and sibling relationships.

Lilith in the 4th house

Challenges related to family and emotional roots.

Lilith in the 5th house

Questions of creativity, love, and pleasure.

Lilith in the 6th house

Struggles with work, health, and daily routines.

Lilith in the 7th house

Challenges in relationships and partnerships.

Lilith in the 8th house

Issues of power, transformation, and sexuality.

Lilith in the 9th house

Struggles with beliefs, education, and travel.

Lilith in the 10th house

Professional challenges and issues of authority.

Lilith in the 11th house

Tensions in friendships and collective goals.

Lilith in the 12th house

Struggles with the unconscious, isolation, illness, or trials in general.

Conclusion: Should the Black Moon be Included in Natal Chart Interpretation?

The integration of the Black Moon into the interpretation of the natal chart depends on the astrologer's approach and the goals of the consultation. The Black Moon can provide deep revelations about hidden aspects of the psyche and karmic challenges for those who are fond of this fatalistic branch of astrology.

However, its complex nature and the positional variations between different calculation methods require nuanced understanding and careful use.

In conclusion, for astrologers seeking to deepen their understanding of psychological dynamics and spiritual challenges, Black Moon Lilith can be a valuable tool.

It is important to approach it with discernment and integrate it as one element among many in the overall analysis of the natal chart.

On Astrotheme, we mention it briefly in the appendix of the comprehensive astrological portrait available in our store, and we take it into account, very slightly, in the calculation of compatibility rates for couple reports.