Exploring the Mesopotamian Tradition of the Substitute King Ritual

In episode 426 astrologer Madeline DeCotes joins Chris in the studio for a wide-ranging discussion about astrology that covers eclipses, fate vs. free will, and the future of astrological research. We open the episode by discussing the intense past month of astrology with eclipses and world events, the significance of eclipses in ancient times, and the origins of astrology. We also explore the broader topic of negative transits, and how tragic events can sometimes lead to positive outcomes or new beginnings. The conversation delves into the nature of transits and how their manifestation may not always be immediately obvious, but can have long-lasting effects on our lives. The discussion also touches on the personalized almanacs created by the Honeycomb Collective, which provide individualized astrological information and transits. Madeline shares her background in communication and information design, and how she aims to make astrology more accessible and digestible through visualizations and simplified data. Later we explore the different approaches and traditions in astrology, and the challenges faced by new students in navigating the vast array of resources available. The episode concludes with a thought-provoking discussion on the implications of astrology and its worldview. We explore the idea that the universe is alive and imbued with meaning and symbolism, contrasting it with the modern scientific view of a dead and meaningless universe. We also touch on the tension between fate and free will, and how astrology can provide comfort and guidance in navigating life's challenges. The conversation ends with a glimpse into the future of astrology research and the potential for innovation in studying personal charts and experiences. Find more about Madeline's work on the Honeycomb website: https://www.honeycomb.co This episode is available in both audio and video versions below. Timestamps 00:00:00 Introduction 00:01:33 Eclipses have historical significance 00:09:31 Astrology can reveal hidden influences 00:13:32 Personalized almanacs for individual transits 00:14:43 Astrology is a personal journey 00:19:44 Structure aids astrology learning 00:25:38 Astrology suggests a meaningful universe 00:31:15 Astrology challenges beliefs about fate 00:38:58 Fate and free will in astrology. 00:43:29 Revolution in astrological research 00:49:26 2020 as a Capricornian experience 01:00:17 Astrology school sparked transformative journey 01:07:10 Ethics of astrology in relationships 01:13:59 Astrology requires understanding and knowledge 01:19:29 Mundane transits can be relevant 01:20:24 Focus on personal chart significance 01:25:59 Astrology's complexity an obstacle to scientific study 01:31:01 Testing astrological correlations is complex 01:39:30 Astrology may face political pushback 01:49:19 Uranus in Gemini and events in the US 02:03:08 Astrology forecasts require responsibility 02:05:12 Finding balance between optimism and realism 02:14:26 Astrology as a code underlying reality 02:25:18 Specializing in multiple disciplines 02:27:29 Astrology broadens knowledge and empathy 02:33:53 Astrology evolved as a timekeeping technology 02:40:18 Relationship between humans and nature 02:45:05 Astrology's potential scientific validity 02:51:26 Astrology accessible to everyone 02:56:05 Astrology's historical importance is overlooked 03:01:13 Astrology reflects natural phenomena 03:06:34 Support the podcast and learn astrology Watch the Video Version of This Episode You can watch the video version of this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vIvg7-wWAh4 - Transcript A full transcript of this episode is available: Episode 426 transcript Listen to the Audio Version of This Episode Listen to the audio version of this episode or download it as an MP3: