Chiron and the Healing Journey

Book excerpt: A CONTEMPORARY CLASSIC. This in-depth study of the minor planet Chiron traces the development of the archetype of the Shaman, or Wounded Healer, which accompanies the soul's journey of awakening. It also demonstrates how this theme is reflected in the astronomical picture, and in turn revealed in the individual horoscope. Chiron's story in Greek mythology is explored and illuminated with skilled interpretation, and there are two large sections detailing Chiron's symbolism and meaning through the signs and houses, and aspecting the planets. The chapter on transits describes the profound process which Chiron signals as it moves around the horoscope over time. This book is essential reading for anyone seeking to shed light on the astrological symbolism and meaning of Chiron. Chiron was discovered in 1977 as a celestial anomaly, but is now in a class of its own. In the early 1990s, exciting discoveries within astronomical science revealed a new category of objects, named the Centaurs'. Chiron is considered the major representative of this group which comprises short-orbit comets that cross the paths of the planets from Jupiter to Pluto. The symbolism of this is perfect, as Chiron stands for that luminous thread of consciousness which links the inner and outer dimensions of our human experience, helping us to make sense of our suffering in a deeply personal way, and thus to release our attachment to it. This book is a classic of original thinking, inspiration, depth of astrological experience and careful research. It has more than stood the test of time, and is appreciated by an ever-growing number of astrologers who focus on the soul's unfoldment through life experience, bitter or sweet. This book has addressed and accompanied the healing journey of many thousands of people all over the world. REVISION This edition of 'Chiron and the Healing Journey' represents a major revision of the best-selling previous editions, first published in 1989 and 1999 by Arkana, and in April 2010 in paperback by Starwalker Press. Changes include an entirely new section on the astronomy of Chiron, and how it is reflected in the mythology. The final section 'Spirit of the Age' has been rewritten to address more precisely our contemporary concerns. There is much new case material illustrating Chiron in the horoscope, and the reader is also briefly introduced to other Minor Planets in the same category as Chiron. The mythological base has also been expanded, and there is an in-depth exploration of the 'Chiron Return' which occurs at age 50, representing a major 'rite of passage' for everyone.