Vedic Astrology Forecast: November 2023
Saturn Goes Direct, the Festival of Lights (Diwali), the Full Frost Moon, and More
Who's ready for a new month? In this November 2023 Vedic astrology forecast, I analyze and describe many of the major events that will occur during the next thirty days. November will be filled with some powerful planetary shifts, including Mars continuing under stress, Saturn stationing direct, and several planets passing through Scorpio.
These and other celestial changes may impact your relationships, finances, mindset, and other aspects of your life in November.
Let's discuss the major astrological events that will occur in November 2023:
October 31 to Sunset on November 1: Samhain - Honoring the End of Harvest Season
November always begins with the ancient Gaelic festival of Samhain, which extends from sunset on October 31 to sunset on November 1. Samhain, pronounced “Sow’in,” means “Summer’s End.” Samhain is the autumnal cross-quarter point halfway between the fall equinox and the winter solstice in the northern hemisphere. It marks the end of the harvest season and the beginning of the darker and colder part of the year.
At Samhain, Mother Nature withdraws her green mantle from the Earth, and with a last stunning flourish of color, her power withdraws into the ground. The ancient Celtic goddess named Cailleach oversees this transformation. She is the one who watches over the culling of old growth. She is the Death Goddess who lets die what is no longer needed. She is the guardian of the seed and the keeper of the essential life force. She holds the very essence of power. (Gail Faith Edwards, Prayers for the Wild Heart Tribe, p 95)
Cailleach Biera by Dromna, in Queen of Air and Darkness by Maria Ede-Weaving, September 14, 2021: Druidry.org
November 1 to 3: Jupiter's Perigee and Annual Opposition with the Sun
On November 1 and November 2, Jupiter will be at its closest to the Earth in 2023, known as Jupiter’s perigee. This occurs when Jupiter passes the Earth in its orbit while the Sun, Earth, and Jupiter lie in a straight line, with the Earth in the middle, and Jupiter appearing to move retrograde from the Earth’s view. On November 3, Jupiter will reach its annual opposition, when it lies exactly opposite the Sun.
Since Jupiter will be very bright and strong now, this is an important time to pray for grace and miracles. The house that Jupiter (in Aries) occupies in your birth chart will indicate where you need to focus and align with deeper purpose and faith in order to gain new perspectives and make other important changes.
Some will experience good fortune during the Sun-Jupiter opposition, but this transit can also intensify negative tendencies and behaviors like arrogance, self-indulgence, and pushiness. Seismic events and dramatic economic reversals are also quite possible around the Jupiter-Sun opposition.
November 2 to 29: Venus Will Transit in Virgo - Time to Mind the Heart
Venus will transit in Virgo from November 2 to 29. In Virgo, Venus is in its fall or debilitation (known as “neecha” in Vedic astrology). With Venus in this position, you may feel physically or emotionally drained, become prone to critical or negative thinking, experience a sense of alienation, or become frustrated. This is an especially important time to mind the heart and cultivate compassion for oneself and others.
In early November, Venus will be in opposition with Neptune and in a quincunx (6-8 aspect) with Rahu. Later in November, Venus will conjoin Ketu and be in a quincunx with Uranus. Therefore, wishful thinking, self-delusion, deception, or financial or relationship concerns may arise throughout this month, so stay grounded and be realistic.
November 4: Saturn Stationary Direct - Be Ready for Change
On November 4 at 3:03 AM EDT, Saturn (the lord of karma) will station direct at six degrees and nineteen minutes of Aquarius. Saturn has been retrograde since June 17. This means that, from our perspective on Earth, Saturn will appear to slow down and stop before changing direction. Things can feel wobbly and intense for five days or so before and after a retrograde or direct station of Saturn. This may be even truer for those with natal planets or chart points in close aspect to transiting Saturn.
Significant world events typically occur around the retrograde or direct stations of Saturn. During this time, we should cultivate peace, maintain equipoise, go with the flow, minimize risk, and be prepared for change. For more information about Saturn’s transit, please see my previous article about the retrograde transit of Saturn, and another article about Saturn’s current transit in Aquarius.
As Saturn starts gaining forward momentum, certain aspects of your life may also start to ease up and move forward. You may come to realize and appreciate what has been achieved during Saturn's more internalized and subjective retrograde phase since last June. Some may feel a slight improvement in mood even though the chaos of the outer world does not change.
November 6 to 26: Mercury Will Transit in Scorpio - An Especially Good Time for Protection Prayers and Rituals
Mercury will transit in Scorpio from November 6 to 26. On the positive side, Mercury in Scorpio may signify high intuition, passion, a love of philosophy and mysteries, excellent research skills, and healing gifts. In its lower expression, Mercury in Scorpio may suggest a secretive, moody, and obsessive nature, emotional reasoning, a tendency to exaggerate the truth, financial difficulties, or neurological/neuro-endocrine disorders.
Classically in Vedic astrology, Mercury transiting in Scorpio has been associated with grief and troubles. This is because Mercury is an enemy to Mars, the ruler of Scorpio. In the world of politics and international relations, this transit can tend to amplify Machiavellian power plays, intrigue, plots, corruption, and lies.
Mercury will square Saturn on November 10 (and will be in range of aspect from November 8-13). For some, this could activate pessimistic and depressive thoughts. From November 26 to 27, Mercury will transit through the gandanta, a sensitive edge between a water and a fire sign (Scorpio and Sagittarius in this case), which may trigger literal storms or troubling world events.
Daily protection prayers and rituals for yourself, your loved ones, and the world will be especially important during the transit of Mercury in Scorpio. As we manage our own emotional state by cultivating calm, positivity, patience, and tact, we can make the most of challenging conditions.
November 9 to 14: Diwali (Dipavali), the Festival of Lights - Celebrating the Victory of Light over Darkness
Diwali or Dipavali is the Festival of Lights celebrated by those who follow India’s Hindu/Vedic, Jain and Sikh cultural traditions. This year, Diwali will take place from November 9 to 14. It is a miraculous festival that celebrates the victory of good over evil, knowledge over ignorance, and light over darkness.
On November 10, the holy day of Dhanteras will start the Diwali celebration. On this day, people will clean their houses, light lamps, and make special paintings. This day commemorates Lord Dhanvantari who first emerged during the Samudra Manthan, the epic Churning of the Great Ocean elaborated in the Vishnu Purana.
Known as the God of Medicine, Lord Dhanvantari imparted the wisdom of Ayurveda to help rid humanity of disease. Dhanteras is a special day to pray for the protection and blessings for all beings, and to invoke Lord Dhanvantari to assist those who are in need of healing. This is also a good day for healing treatments or medical procedures.
On November 12, the Lakshmi Puja will take place. This is the most important day of Diwali, a sacred celebration commemorating the birth and blessing of Lakshmi Devi, the goddess of love, wisdom, beauty, progress, and prosperity. The Lakshmi Puja day is an Abuj Muhurta when whatever positive action that we set into motion has the potential to bring successful results in the long term. Lord Ganesh is often worshiped alongside Lakshmi on Diwali, and thus brings his added blessings to the devotees.
Diwali celebrations in Sri Lanka by Amila Tenakoon
November 9 to 13: Balsamic Moon - Time to Rest and Clear Your Thoughts
The Balsamic Moon phase occurs when the Moon begins transiting within 45 degrees behind the Sun. This deepest waning cycle of the Moon happens every month. It is a time for rest, healing, clearing, and letting go in preparation for the New Moon ahead. This month’s Balsamic Moon is very special as it is also the time of the Diwali festival, mentioned above.
November 13: The New Moon in Libra - Possibly a Very Difficult Crisis Point
According to Vedic astrology, the New Moon in Libra is one of the darkest days of the year. A New Moon is always dark and can feel emotionally empty as the Moon is hidden by the Sun. However, as the Sun is debilitated in Libra, the New Moon in Libra is more enervated than usual.
This means that the light of the outer world may feel absent around this time, so we should turn deeper within to connect with and celebrate the Divine Light that shines from within us and all of life. This is the true purpose of Diwali.
The New Moon (Moon + Sun) will occur on November 13 at 4:27 AM EST (9:27 AM UTC), at 27 degrees of Libra in the bellicose Vishakha nakshatra, and under some very unfavorable aspects including a conjunction with Mars, opposition with Uranus, and quincunx (6/8) with Rahu.
These difficult transits in the New Moon chart suggest an erratic and potentially violent and hazardous time in certain parts of the world, particularly in the Middle East. I say this as the New Moon and warrior Mars are culminating on the upper meridian (MC/midheaven) over the Middle East while Uranus lies opposite on the IC (homeland). Additionally, Pluto (which acts like Mars) is rising in the New Moon chart there. All this could indicate a turning point in mid-November. Truly, the prayers and blessings of Diwali are needed at this time more than ever.
November 16 to December 16: The Sun Will Transit into Scorpio - Increased Power and Confidence
The Sun will transit in Scorpio from November 16 to December 16. The entry day of the Sun into Scorpio is known as Vrishchika Sankranti. In classical astrology, Scorpio is ruled by Mars, the fiery Sun’s similarly incandescent friend. The Sun can be very strong in the warrior sign of Scorpio, where this luminary reflects potential for self-improvement and empowerment. Additionally, Vrishchika Sankranti is welcomed as it marks the Sun’s movement out of its weakest sign of debilitation (Libra).
The Sun in Vedic astrology represents power, authority, confidence, self-esteem, vitality, immunity, bones, and the spine. Leaders (“kings”) are said to act more effectively when the Sun transits in Mars-ruled Scorpio, versus in Venus-ruled Libra. For anyone who may have recently suffered acute back issues or who has felt otherwise exhausted, irritated, or off-balance, the shift of the Sun into Scorpio may bring some relief.
November 16 to December 27: Mars Will Transit in Scorpio - Potential to Feel Courageous, Strong-Willed, and Determined
Mars will also enter Scorpio on November 16, and will remain here until December 27. As Mars transits in his own sign of Scorpio, our warrior nature can become quite courageous, strong-willed, and determined. On the less positive side, Mars in this sign (if afflicted) can be jealous, agitated, manipulative, proud, or arrogant. Self-discipline and loving kindness are important to help counter any of the less constructive features of this Mars placement.
November 17 to 19: Mars Will Conjunct the Sun in Scorpio in Vishakha Nakshatra- Possibly A Fiery Time!
I previously wrote an article about the fact that Mars will be combust (too close to the Sun and invisible to us) until January 16, 2024. When Mars is combust, it can be associated with frustrations, impatience, aggression, conflicts, and power struggles.
During this time of its extended combustion cycle, Mars will exactly conjoin the Sun on November 18 at one+ degrees of Scorpio in the fiery Vishakha nakshatra and in the sensitive Cancer navamsa. This exact conjunction of Mars and the Sun in this specific area of the zodiac has not occurred since the early 1700s. In in its lower expression, this aspect can be aggressive, restless, volatile, fanatic, or dominating.
Mars will be within 17 minutes of longitude with the Sun on November 17 and 18. This is known as Cazimi, meaning “in the heart of the Sun,” which makes a planet like Mars very strong. In its positive expression, Cazimi Mars in Scorpio can indicate great vital force, tenacity, and decisiveness.
However, Mars and the Sun will square Saturn from November 18 to 26, which can manifest as tension, discouragement, arrogance, negligence, or recklessness. In mundane astrology, this aspect has been associated with storms and floods. Generally, the best way to manage this transit is by avoiding haste and dangerous situations, and making sure to get vigorous physical exercise.
November 21, 2023 to March 5, 2024: Uranus and Ketu In a Quincunx - New Challenges and Opportunities
From November 21, 2023 to March 5, 2024, the Moon’s South Node/Ketu in Virgo will be in a quincunx (6/8 relationship) with Uranus in Aries. Depending on how this transit interfaces with a natal or mundane horoscope, it may indicate a tendency for forceful, erratic, or rash behavior. It may also signify intolerance, impatience, or accidents. This period could suggest a heightened chance of uprisings and violence. On the plus side, this aspect between Ketu and Uranus could awaken new interests in the metaphysical realm including alternative healing.
From November 23 to 27, Venus in Virgo will conjoin Ketu and will form a 6/8 quincunx with Uranus in Aries. This can indicate anxiety, restlessness, or frustration in relationships or with social groups. Many in the United States will celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday on November 23. At this time, the Moon will be transiting in Pisces and conjoined Rahu and opposite Ketu and Venus (and in the 6/8 with Uranus). This suggests potential for some stress or drama, so take it easy, be helpful, kind, and flexible, and maybe plan to go for a long walk (weather permitting), or perhaps to see a movie!
November 26 to December 28: Mercury in Sagittarius - Time to Free Your Mind
Mercury will transit in Sagittarius from November 26 to December 28. Some may begin to feel more optimistic during this time. You might also become eager to expand your mental horizons, release the beliefs and worries that are holding you back, and even have an adventure.
November 26 to 27: Kartika Purnima - Om Namah Shivaya!
Kartika Purnima will be celebrated on November 26 in the western half of the world, and on November 27 in the eastern half. Also known as Tripuri Diwali (the Diwali of the Gods), this Vedic/Hindu, Sikh, and Jain cultural festival is observed for several days around the fifteenth lunar day of the Kartik lunar month (which falls in November or December every year). Kartika Purnima commemorates Lord Shiva’s victory over the demon Tripurasura, and so it is a special time of worship for Shiva devotees.
November 27: The Full Frost Moon in Taurus and Rohini Nakshatra - Blessings Abound
The Full Frost Moon will occur on November 27 at 4:16 AM EST (9:16 AM UTC) at 10 degrees of Taurus opposite the Sun and Mars in Scorpio. In Native American tradition, it is called the Frost Moon because it ushers in the wintry weather in the northern hemisphere.
The Full Moon will occur in its exalted sign of sidereal Taurus, and in the section of Taurus known as Rohini nakshatra, the Moon's own fruitful and creative abode. This is generally quite favorable for passionate and creative ventures as well as fun social activities. At the same time, the Full Moon will square Saturn, suggesting a time when some may feel dispirited. If this is the case, then it may be time for introspection. Saturn represents personal responsibility, Taurus is down-to earth, and a Full Moon is always a very good time to look within and regroup.
In all locales, the night of November 26 will be the best one for performing Full Moon rituals and practices. This will be an excellent time to clear your crystals or gemstones and to make Moon water and other kinds of elixirs. The Moon will still be overflowing with luscious crystal-clear lunar nectar through the night of November 27.
November 29-December 24: Venus in Libra - The Goddess of Love and Harmony Comes Home
Venus will transit its own sign of Libra from November 29 to December 24. The planet of diplomacy, money, love, relationships, beauty, comfort, harmony, and peace is in dignity here, so this transit can generally give some positive results. At the same time, Pluto, Neptune, Ketu, and Rahu will all be aspecting Venus in the last few days of November and the first few days of December. Because of these aspects, some will have to face self-doubt, insecurity, financial concerns, relationship conflicts, or issues related to security and safety. If and when you feel any of these challenges, remember first and always to tend to your inner heart and just breathe love in and breathe love out.
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Conclusion
As you can see, the first half of November may be filled with global unrest and personal challenges. Mars, the Sun, and Venus will all be under some stress during the beginning weeks of November, so it will be important to stay calm and avoid making impulsive decisions. A difficult New Moon could also bring its own challenges and ongoing worldwide conflict on November 13.
Fortunately, we should see some relief as November draws to a close. In particular, the auspicious Full Frost Moon and Venus' transit into Libra may bring us some positivity and happiness.
I hope that you have a wonderful November!