Aquarius is an air sign and the word Kumbha is associated with kumbhaka, a yogic practice of breath control. Breath is prana, the life within us. If we are able to retain and control our breath, we are able to control life. Symbolically then, we are able to understand the secret of life and death.
The symbol of Aquarius is the pitcher, representing the human ego. Water gives life and can turn base metal into gold. It is used in purification rituals. The Aquarian water-bearer symbolises the merging of the individual with the universal life force. It is at this stage in the cosmic cycle that the crown chakra is activated, giving knowledge of the cosmic plan. The individual finally understands the true meaning and purpose of this life; there are no more goals to be fulfilled. However, Aquarius is ruled by Saturn and is not an easy sign. There is still work to be done. As the individual starts to break free from his individual ego and work in accordance with cosmic law, traditional ideas and worldly attachments are inevitable destroyed. Saturn is ruthless in forcing you to recognise the final goals. The Aquarian impulse is on a thinking level not an emotional one. The pitcher can only pour forth its water of universal life if it is broken - symbolising the need for the final breaking down of the individual personality. In Aquarius you are forced to work for the good of all rather than for personal ambitions.
Saturn rules Aquarius
Again, Saturn acts like its true self in its own sign. Again, responsibility and duty are highlighted but this time it is the responsibility of the individual to work for the good of all. You have all the world's problems on your shoulders. However, there are rather fewer lessons to be learned in Aquarius than in Capricorn.
There are no planets in exaltation or in debilitation in Aquarius. It has moved beyond the personal to the universal and planets placed here will tend to act for higher causes, not for personal gain.
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