Sun In Leo and in Transition August 16-Sept 16th–Return of the King

EYE ON THE SKY: SUN MOVING TOWARD LEO

The Sun moves into the final degrees of Cancer on August 14th, entering the 27°–30° range—a vulnerable point known as the gandanta, or karmic knot. The most intense portion of this knot occurs August 16–17, between 29°20′ Cancer and 0°40′ Leo. In electional astrology, it is generally advised not to begin important activities during sign changes, as the Sun is considered weak at these transitions.

The Cancer gandanta (29°20′–29°59′ Cancer) lies within the constellation Hydra (Ashlesha, 16°40′–29°59′ Cancer), a place where the toxins of the past accumulate in a tangled knot that can feel difficult to untie. Deep unconscious patterns and daunting challenges often surface, sometimes accompanied by regrets. Remember—you have the power of free will in the present moment. You are not bound to live in the shadows of past mistakes. Let them go. They may seem knotted and overwhelming, but you have the strength to work through them.  Issues around power, self-esteem, self-confidence, and ego challenges may come up. 

The Leo gandanta (0°00′–0°40′ Leo) on August 17th falls in the constellation of Regulus (Magha, 0°00′–13°20′ Leo). Here, the focus is more material. The soul may wrestle with the decision to move into a more successful material life, beginning a journey through the more tamasic constellations that dominate until December 15th—those more concerned with money and security. As the Sun moves into Leo, it will be exalted in the navamsha, bringing renewed confidence and leadership ability—but also the potential for self-centeredness.

The Sun, heart of the Kala Purusha, is the source of vitality, courage, valor, royalty, fatherhood, victory, and success. In Leo—its sign—it is strong and at home. Leo represents individualization, majestic light, and power. As the natural fifth sign of the zodiac, it signifies the creative urge of the Cosmic Man to return to his Source. Leo is the Divine Child, holding the hand of the Father in the sky, yet leaping boldly into the world of matter. While material by nature, Leo always keeps one eye on the heavens. Its challenge—something we see reflected in our current Leo president—is overcoming entrenched ego and being willing to renounce personal attainments for the greater good of the planet.

This year, the Sun’s entry into Leo at the gandanta initiates a more material focus. This can be an energizing aspect—especially for Leo rising—leading to significant accomplishments. However, be mindful not to push others aside in pursuit of your goals, as disputes or irritability may arise. Sometimes it is necessary to stand your ground, but weigh carefully whether the conflict is worth the cost. 

The only primary affliction of this transit will be the conjunction with Ketu, which is exact on September 9th, but will create the Lunar Eclipse on September 8th.  Sun /Ketu conjunctions can bring up issues with father figures or authority, challenge self-confidence and self-esteem, and may lead to unexpected rounds of anger and rage, so be careful around Sept. 4-11th. 

If you were born with the Sun in Leo, you naturally possess strong leadership abilities, ambition, independence, and stamina. With the Sun mostly unafflicted during this transit, it regains strength after the summer eclipses. This is an excellent period to deepen your connection to your Divinity. Focus on helping others without seeking praise or attention. See yourself as the great royal soul that you are—like the Leo Lion gazing into the mirror. In Christian symbolism, the Lion represents the Divine King. Rise from the shadows of experience, move toward higher spirituality, and let go of the small ego. Jai Guru Dev—victory to the Big Mind—while releasing the little ego that chains us to the material world.

Leo is the Sun’s home, where it is stubborn and independent, yet highly organized in humanitarian efforts. Leos benefit most from this transit, restoring leadership, vitality, and confidence. The Sun does best when transiting the 3rd, 6th, 10th, or 11th house from your Moon or rising sign—so if yours is Gemini, Pisces, Scorpio, or Libra, you will feel the most benefit. Aries, Scorpio, and Sagittarius also tend to do well, thanks to the natural friendships between the Sun and Mars or Jupiter.

Special thanks to Komilla Sutton and for her profound insights into the nakshatras and the gandanta.

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