Cicero - Self Initiation into the Golden Dawn Tradition_Part 01

50 SELF-INmATION INTO THE GoLDEN DAWN 'fRADmoN
exaltation). When a Planet is in the Sign directly opposite to the one it rules, it is in
the Sign of its detriment. Also, when a Planet is in the Sign opposite of its exaltation,
it is in the Sign of its fall. Thus a Planet's dignity and its exaltation are harmonious
with its energy, while its detriment and its fall are contrary to the Planet's
energy. To get a better idea of the energies and associations of each Planet, the following
explanations are provided."
» LUNA (The Moon)
Rules: Cancer Exaltation: Taurus
Detriment: Capricorn Fall: Scorpio
Represents: domestic, nurturing urge
Key word: EMOTIONS
Luna is a Roman name identified with Diana, goddess of the Moon. The Moon
embodies the primary female principle and women in general. It encompasses
instincts, moods, feelings, habits, the subconscious, tides, phases, reflexes, reflections,
alternations, and receptivity. Luna rules needs, desires, personal interests,
magnetism, liquids, impressionability, fertility, and growth. The Moon's action
changes and fluctuates.
V MERCURY
Rules: Gemini, Virgo Exaltation: Aquarius
Detriment: Sagittarius, Pisces Fall: Leo
Represents: intellectual, expressive urge
Key word: REASONING POWERS
Mercury is named after the fleet-footed Roman messenger god. Mercury governs
communication, reason, intellect, rationalization, awareness, perceptions, adroitness,
opinions, transmission, words, speaking, writing, mailings, and means of
expression. In addition Mercury deals with family, children, siblings, social contacts,
day-to-day activities, travel, and transportation. This Planet's action is rapid,
unpredictable, and explosive.
<; VENUS
Rules: Taurus, Libra Exaltation: Pisces
Detriment: Scorpio, Aries Fall: Virgo
Represents: social urge, values
Key word: AFFECTION
Venus, the Planet of Love, named after the Roman goddess, was in ancient times
nicknamed the Lesser Benefic. It governs pleasure, natural love, sensuality, socia-
20 Note that here the Planets are given in the order of their speed, whereas in most other Golden
Dawn listings they are given in a reverse order according to their attribution to the Sephiroth
descending the Tree of Life.