Jupiter Turns Direct
time to make decisions!

The cycles of astrology are reflected in our daily lives, as well as informing the patterns of our human creativity, whether artistic or musical, social, political or financial. The planets rule our moods and our environment. Jupiter's annual transformation from one sign to the next sets the stage of human consciousness for the ensuing year, but his annual switch between retro and forward motion through the zodiac is also highly significant.

On June 5, 2005, Lordly Jupiter, the ruler of the ancient gods, turns direct in motion through the heavens, after a lengthy period of retrograde motion that commenced at the beginning of February 2005. Each year, Jupiter turns retrograde for approximately 120 days and the periods when he is stationary in the zodiac, pausing at the beginning and end of these retrograde phases, are also highly signficant in terms of their effect on life on Earth. Thus, when Jupiter turns direct, the week or so either side of the date of turning (when Jupiter is "Stationary Direct") is ideal for making or implementing decisions regarding the year ahead in terms of the matters ruled by Jupiter, but the flavour depends on where the change happens in your personal chart. In this article I will briefly outline the influences for each sign, so check your Sun Sign in the box below – and if you know your rising sign, check that too, for a more comprehensive forecast.

Jupiter, one of the most potent forces in our solar system, has been retrograde in Libra since February 2005, creating all manner of issues connected mainly with finances, cultural pursuits, matters of the mind, communications, the law, politics, travel and interpersonal relationships.

Jupiter rules our potential for growth and expansion on many levels: physical, intellectual, spiritual and cultural, along with the accumulation of material assets, power and status. He rules our optimism and aspirations, including our interests in faraway places, travel, foreigners, academic and artistic types, cultural endeavours such as publishing, higher education, structured personal development, healing, government and religion. Jupiter is a risk-taker, so also rules gambling and speculation, adventure – and moving into unknown territory.

Lordly Jupiter, traditionally described as the Greater Fortune (or Benefic), governs luck and wellbeing. When Jupiter is well-aspected he provides superb opportunities for expansion and success. Poorly aspected, he generates over-confidence and foolhardy actions with little care for the consequences.

Here is a brief outline for the benefit of each sign as Jupiter turns direct again. Remember to check the forecast for your rising sign too, for a more balanced reading. To calculate your rising sign, click here.

Libra, the Scales

Your uniqueness as an individual comes firmly to the fore, as Jupiter strides forward in your first house. Your personal magnetism increases as you become more focused on the delights of your physical appearance and the complex facets of your personality. It's time to implement decisions regarding personal image and health.

Scorpio, the Scorpion

Jupiter turns direct behind the scenes in your twelfth house of secrets, sorrows and sub-conscious motivation. Any benefits or gains may be hidden, or at least not as obvious to others as might normally be the case, but you need to move forward on anything connected with spiritual development, institutions, partner's health and concealed matters in general.

Sagittarius, the Archer

The path to personal happiness is energized as Jupiter, your life-ruler, turns direct in your sector of personal goals. Now is the time to set those directions, especially towards the achievement of your hopes and wishes, career developments and matters to do with other people's children in your life. Friendships and matters related to clubs or associations you belong to will also benefit from positive action over the coming weeks.

Capricorn, the Sea-Goat

With expansive Jupiter in your mid-heaven, the increased energy and enthusiasm surrounding you as he turns direct can inspire you with greater ambition and more urgent desires to expand your career or other long range goals. Now is the time to implement those changes you have been considering in your career and public image, as this is a very fortunate time for you, when the cosmos is on your side.

Aquarius, the Water-Bearer

As noble Jupiter turns direct in your ninth house, now is the time to make those travel bookings, to plan vacations and to decide on any cultural, religious, or educational issues that you have been considering. A second marriage, or matters to do with in-laws and relatibves of your partner can be satisfactorily organized now. The next few months will be an interesting and fortunate period for you, one that includes much potential for success and personal growth, especially coming from decisions you set in motion now.

Pisces, the Fishes

Joint income, sexuality, investments, collection of debts, taxes, insurance and the settlement of estate matters are areas affected by the influence of Jupiter, your life-ruler, as he turns direct in your eighth house. Decisions you take now will have an effect for a long time ahead with regard to these issues.

Aries, the Ram

This is not a period to work or spend a lot of time alone and out of touch, as sociable Jupiter turns direct in your seventh house. Court cases, legal decisions, partnership issues and any open conflicts can be addressed at this time. People, especially a partner or other allies, will be a source of stimulation, broader knowledge and new experiences for you.

Taurus, the Bull

The nature and scope of your work and daily responsibilities can be improved and expanded as Jupiter turns direct in your sixth house. Your work may require more travel, or advanced training become necessary. Your health too may require more attention, so any decisions about health regimes or health professionals should be taken now for best results. The streamlining of working routines can be achieved and relations with subordinates can also be improved.

Gemini, the Twins

Your capacity for enjoyment is enhanced, as glorious Jupiter turns direct in your fifth house of romance, children, speculation and creativity. Now is the time to make investment decisions, move forward with romantic proposals and creative directions in general

Cancer, the Crab

Jupiter moving forward in your fourth house of home, family and domestic circumstances marks the beginning of a twelve-year cycle of learning and new experiences in one form or another. Decisions you make now, especially those influenced by people you meet will be catalysts that inspire you to start new ventures of one sort or another over the next twelve years. It's the best time for real estate and home improvement decisions, or perhaps selling up and relocating to a better residence.

Leo, the Lion

Communications and travel increase, as bold Jupiter swings into forward motion through your third house, widening your circle of contacts and encouraging the exchange of ideas and information. It's the ideal time to implement plans for creative writing, publishing, education and communicating with siblings.

Virgo, the Virgin

This may have been a tricky, even ruinous year so far but now that Jupiter turns direct your second house of personal finances, you can make sensible decisions about the proper allocation of your resources. Your personal priorities and values are being redefined, but remember that under this influence money is the source of pleasure – which is fine if you can afford to spend it!

Keep in mind that Jupiter changes signs on October 25, 2005, so decisions you make now will be most readily put into action before that date.