Axis one: Taurus–Scorpio
Self-worth and shared worth: clearing emotional resistance to growth
Axis two: Leo–Aquarius
Defining the self; locating that self within the group/society
| Qualities: | Sensitivity, emotion, sympathies and responses |
|---|---|
| Method: | Crisis/intensification and conflict resolution |
| Personality aspect: | The emotions |
| Growth area: | Congruence of emotional life with deeper inner needs (‘second initiation’) |
| Related to: | The Second ray, Sirius |
| Planet of expression: | Saturn as a presenter of opportunity |
| Fixed cross rays: | Ray 1, Ray 4, Ray 5 |
| Symbol: | to follow |
Fixed Cross in detail
Related to the second of the three overarching principles of consciousness, this cross carries that principle as it emerges as self-awareness, to evolve and expand into a more inclusive quality in humanity.
A predominance of Fixed signs in the chart indicates a life where:
- First: the experience of inner states—often in conflict—becomes a driver towards an increasing inclusivity or heart that is able to accepts increasing differences and experience fewer fears,
- Eventually: the conflict between an established personality and the inner self or soul is felt as tension increases between (in Bailey’s terms) the “Dweller on the Threshold” and “Angel of the Presence” (see Scorpio).
“Before and After” through the Fixed Cross
The following list from Esoteric Astrology summarises theFixed Cross transmutation of each sign’s influence from the self-oriented to the soul-oriented, stating that The Fixed Cross is the cross of light
(EA 293):
- Taurus: Bull of Desire > Light of aspiration and knowledge
- Leo: Lion of Self-assertion > Light of the Soul
- Scorpio: Agent of Deception > Light of Liberation
- Aquarius: Chalice of Self-service > Light of the world
This progress through the Fixed signs is covered in more detail below (EA 143-4, 290) (and also in the Taurus-Leo-Aquarius triangle (EA 143-4)):
- Taurus
- The single eye (Ajna centre or “third eye”) takes over from the two eyes of the personal self. Initially, experience is sought in order to gain knowledge, but attention becomes focussed upon spiritual attainment and the
Path of Discipleship.
- Leo
- After the expression of experience being used to justify knowledge,
the personality… becomes the captive of the soul
. During preparation for the first initiation, we become “the Lion who seeks his prey” (as the soul gradually gains control over the personality) - Scorpio
- tests that enable the second initiation and
demonstrate that the desire nature is subdued and conquered and that the lower nature is … capable of reaching the goal for this world period, and that from the earthy foundations of Scorpio the personality can be so tested that it shows fitness for the world service demanded in Aquarius.
- Aquarius
the long effort of the soul is consummated and concludes… experience… upon the Fixed Cross
. Knowledge gained is put to use in service to humanity. After the third initiation we become free from personality control, taking the next two initiations “upon” the Cardinal Cross.
These summaries cover the general scheme of human progress through the crosses, although individually of course, personal experience under each sign (as Sun or Rising) depends on which phase of evolution or cycle of development is the current focus.