On Restraint and Reverence in Times of Tragedy


On 26 November 2025, Hong Kong was struck by the tragic fire in Tai Po’s Wang Fuk Court, a calamity that has left many dead, injured, or still unaccounted for, while families remain in anguish as they wait for news of their loved ones. 

Even as rescue efforts continue and grief has scarcely begun to settle, social media across various platforms has already filled with commentaries, some appearing within hours or the very next day, that set forth metaphysical interpretations, offering Feng Shui or astrological reasoning as though the event were already distant and concluded, presenting these explanations in a lesson-giving manner even while the tragedy is still unfolding. Many speak with an air of authority, delivering their analyses with a detachment that overlooks the immediate grief surrounding them, as though the suffering of the present moment were merely the backdrop for a demonstration of skill. This is not to suggest that such insights lack value within the context of esoteric or metaphysical knowledge; rather, the concern lies in the timing and the manner in which they are offered.

It must be said that Feng Shui, divination, and astrology are all arts situated within the broader field of metaphysics. From an astrological perspective, these disciplines fall chiefly under the Twelfth House and, secondarily, under the Ninth. Yet anyone advancing in the metaphysical field of the Twelfth House must remember its fuller meanings, among them compassion and empathy. Likewise, those devoted to the Ninth House in their pursuit of higher understanding must take care not to become so fixated on intellectual certainty or the rational search for meaning that they forget the moral obligations that accompany such knowledge. The Twelfth and the Ninth form a square in their traditional relationship, which serves as a reminder that one should be mindful not to allow the quest for esoteric insight to obscure ethical responsibilities, nor permit the pursuit of supposed truth to suppress compassion. There are boundaries that should not be crossed, even in the pursuit of knowledge or attention, for those who engage in these arts also assume the obligations inherent in the Twelfth and Ninth Houses.

In times such as these, one ought to reflect with care upon what may rightly be spoken, when it may be spoken, and in what setting. It is worth recalling why the Sun resonates with the Ninth House and Saturn with the Twelfth, for these associations point toward moral clarity, spiritual discipline, and the sobriety of inward reflection.

The Birth of Singapore, 9 August 1965

Tomorrow, 9 August 2025, is Singapore's National Day. 60 years ago, the proclamation declaring Singapore's independence was announced on Radio Singapore at 10:00 am on 9 August 1965. 

You can say that the horoscope chart cast for this particular moment signifies the birth of Singapore. The planetary configurations in the sky at this important moment speaks about her DNA and evolution, which can be delineated and prediction of events timed by specialized timing techniques using the horoscope chart. In the National Horoscope Chart of Singapore, cast with the time of 10:00 am on 9 August 1965, the rising sign or Ascendant is Libra (Tropical Zodiac).  



As an introduction to the National Horoscope Chart of Singapore, I will briefly highlight two components of the chart—the 1st House and the Planet Moon—and outline key delineation points for the Planet-Sign combination that are observable, offering insights into the nation's unique identify.

It is 9 August 1965. The Birth of Singapore.

Mars in Libra, in the 1st House, the Ascendant

Take a moment to read and understand the background leading to the Independence of Singapore. 

Singapore separates from Malaysia and becomes independent

(https://www.nlb.gov.sg/main/article-detail?cmsuuid=dc1efe7a-8159-40b2-9244-cdb078755013)

The Ascendant or the 1st House is representative of not only the symbolic moment of birth, but also Singapore as a whole. Mars is the planet of Strife, Conflict, Tensions, Cutting and Actions. Libra is the sign of Justice, Equality, Negotiation and Balance. Together, Mars-Libra in the Ascendant plays out the background events of the Independence of Singapore, capturing the social mood of the nation at the birth moment, as well as being representative of the innate DNA of Singapore as a whole. Observable delineation of Mars-Libra in the Ascendant includes tensions, conflicts in the areas of justice and equality between different interests or groups, but also the zeal and fight for justice and equality, the latter's importance being often emphasized explicitly in Singapore over the years. Equality (Libra) does not come easy (Mars). Look up Singapore's National Pledge.

Moon in Capricorn, in the 4th House

The 4th House signifies Real Estate, Properties, Home, Infrastructure, End of Life. Moon is representative of the Public at Large, the Instinctive Needs and Moods. Capricorn is the sign of Regulation, Restriction, Stability, Practicality, Ambitious, Accumulation of Status and Wealth. Together, observable delineation of Moon-Capricorn in the 4th House includes the prominent—Moon near the Imum Coeli, IC—propensity and drive for housing/properties as a means of wealth and status accumulation for the public, also as a source of retirement asset. The sentiment (Moon) is pragmatic and conservative, with an emphasis on long term stability (Capricorn). Generally, rising property prices are characterized by a slow, deliberate pace, shaped largely by supply and policy constraints.

Now, in this Horoscope Chart of Singapore, both Mars and Moon are in "Detriment"; that is, they are in a sign that is inimical to their nature, which in traditional astrological texts or teachings, is a weakness/ problematic or debilitated condition for the planets (Jupiter and Venus likewise). However, as I have said in another article, a planet in a sign can be understood in a few layers, or rather, their influence can be expressed in a few layers. Above, the delineation for both Mars and Moon in their respective sign are simply a descriptive, literal expression of the planet in the sign. One should not attribute much positive or negative inclinations here.

What has been described above regarding for Mars and Moon in the National Horoscope Chart of Singapore is only a small slice or a simple facet of the interpretation of the chart, even if all the other planets are examined in the same way. This is so, as it is only Planet-Sign delineation. The individual life is complex, and even more so for a Nation. 

Beyond just the simple delineation of Planet-Sign combinations above, if we include the full gamut of astrological techniques in the chart interpretation, we can then bring in the nuances, differing perspectives, evolution, relationships into the chart, allowing us to understand the development of Singapore over different time periods, the national mood and major social movements.

Lastly, what do you think are the manifestations or the expressions of the "debilitated" condition of Mars, Moon, Jupiter and Venus—this other layer of influence—for Singapore? 

Mikey Madison and Anora Ani Mikheeva

Anora, 2024 by Sean Baker

In the birth chart below, Sun is in Exaltation. Moon, Mars and Venus are in Domicile. Jupiter is in Triplicity. Saturn is Peregrine. Most are high in dignity, with one in Peregrine. Sun is ruler of 7th House (Partner, Spouse). Jupiter is ruler of the 2nd House (Money) and 10th House (Status, Recognition, Career). Both of them are in the 2nd House of Money. Right-away, one basic symbolism from such configuration should come to your mind. Spouse or Partner is well-off, social status is pretty good. Can the native benefit from Spouse? In this chart, yes. 

Mikey Madison Horoscope Chart

Sun is with Mercury. Mercury is ruler of 5th House (Dating, Romance, Performance, Entertainment). In the beginning, I mentioned that most planets in this chart are high in dignity. With one exception; Mercury. Mercury is in Detriment. Some may add that Mercury is also in Fall. Not only that, Mercury is retrograde. Based on dignity condition alone, Mercury is not fantastic. Suffice to say, the dating opportunity, situation or partner may be controversial, unconventional or deviant. Nevertheless, the dating or romance relationship leads to Marriage; Mercury with Sun. But that's not the main point. Despite the less than stellar dignity condition, Mercury is actually important in this chart. It can bring benefits due to its configuration.

This is the birth chart for Mikaela "Mikey" Madison Rosberg, an American actress who won the 2025 Academy Award for Best Actress for her role in "Anora". The film Anora follows the story of Ani, a sex worker, engaging in a transaction where she is paid by a wealthy client, in this case, Vanya, for her services. 

Mikey Madison 2024 New York Film Festival

"Anora" began filming in 2023. From a Astrological Timing perspective, 2023 was the Jupiter Major Time Period and Sun Minor Time Period. Now, if you have seen the film, recall what I have just said about Mercury, Sun and Jupiter. Bearing in mind that so far, we have only looked at Mercury, Sun and Jupiter and their basic condition and symbolism. These are basic foundation of natal astrology. Yet, just from these, one cannot help but already have this thought: 

did she choose the role, or did the role choose her? 

Actors seemingly have this inherent advantage of allowing planetary energies, either by choice or not, an outlet to express themselves; to be played out in one's acting role. In some situations, when favorable planetary configurations manifest through an alternate persona—such as acting in a film or drama—this can bring out the positive benefits into real life. In this case, for Mikey Madison's Jupiter, ruler of her 10th House (Career, Recognition). Jupiter Major Time Period begins 2019. Rather similar for Brandon Fraser, which I have talked about in another post. If you catch on quickly, this "alternate manifestation" implies something significant.  

The planetary energies in our birth chart will inevitably manifest—it's only a question of who, what, where, and when. We can choose to respond reactively or take a proactive approach. Consciously, we can create circumstances that resonate with our planetary configurations, guided by deliberate intent and desired outcomes.

In any case, a planet in poor dignity does bring problems, but it can also bring benefits if configured appropriately; Mercury. Likewise, a planet in good dignity does bring benefits, but it can also bring problems if configured inappropriately. For example, Mars in Scorpio. Year 2031 marks the transition to Mars period from a Major Time Period perspective in this chart.

On a different note, if you are interested, look at the indicators pertaining to her parents in her chart. Her parents are both psychologists. 

Basic Symbolism in Astrology: The Planet Saturn in Salvador Dali

Salvador_Dalí_1939

When delineating Astrological Birth Charts, simplicity is the ultimate sophistication. 大道至简单. There really isn't a need for complex calculations of different Lots, the Various Chart Rulers, the use of Nautical Metaphors etc. Nothing comes closer to the truth than symbolism in Astrology. There are several layers of symbolism in Horoscopic Astrology, and the most fundamental ones one must first be familiar with when learning Astrology are the Planetary symbolism, Connection symbolism and House symbolism.

Let's take a quick look at this birth chart, that of Salvador Dali the Spanish Surrealist Artist, by peeling off the top few layers of the onion. I mean, the chart. 

Salvador Dali Horoscope Chart

1. Planetary and House Symbolism

The planet Saturn, naturally symbolizes Delay, Mature, Old, Rigid, Stubborn, Persistence. Saturn is Cold and Dry. The 7th House symbolizes the status, condition or affairs pertaining to Spouse (Wife, in this chart) and Marriage. Saturn rules the 7th House in this chart.

The wife of Salvador Dali, Elena Ivanovna Diakonova or known simply as Gala, was 10 years older than Salvador Dali and known for her strong will and determination, traits that some might perceive as stubborn. The marriage is enduring, but marked with tension and numerous challenges. Saturn by its natural symbolism alone, does not goes well with warmth and love. But it can persevere.

2. House and Connection Symbolism

The 9th House symbolizes Foreign and Travels. Sextile symbolizes a connection between planets that brings forth positive opportunities and luck. Jupiter, ruler of the 9th House, sextile Saturn, the Spouse. 

Salvador Dali's wife was from Russia. Salvador Dali traveled to Paris in 1929, during the premiere of the film 'Un Chien Andalou' which he had collaborated with, and during this period was introduced to Éluard, then husband of Gala.

Dali invited back Éluard, Gala, and their daughter Cécile to spend the summer of 1929 with him in Cadaqués, a coastal town in Spain. This visit was a turning point for Dali and Gala's relationship.

3. Planetary, House and Connection Symbolism

Sun naturally symbolizes the Father, especially in the Day Birth Chart. The 3rd House symbolizes Siblings. Mercury is the ruler of the 3rd House. 10th House symbolizes Public Image, Recognition. Mars is the ruler of the 10th House. Square symbolizes a connection between planets that brings forth difficulties, challenges and conflict. Sun, Mercury and Mars square Saturn, the Marriage.

Dali's marriage to Gala not only faced public criticism and resistance but also strained the ties with his Father and Sister.

Just from these top few basic layers, one already can have a quick surface understanding of certain events or circumstances surrounding the native. Certainly, from the marriage perspective, there are other circumstances one can also see merely from these basic layers, such as the affairs of Gala, amongst others.

And if one continues to peel off more layers, either through the expansion of the fundamental layers or through further understanding of other layers of deeper symbolism present in Astrology besides the fundamentals such as Movement symbolism, Configuration symbolism, Placement symbolism. etc., you can see why Gala is very significant for Salvador Dali personally and professionally; the growing fame and success of Dali's; the controversial and unconventional style of Dali's; the turbulent yet enduring and unconventional marriage, etc.