The Saturn-Pluto Conjunction: Endings & Extremes

Saturn conjunct Pluto [22 Capricorn 46]

– January 12, 2020

Do not be dismayed by the brokenness of the world.

All things break. And all things can be mended.

Not with time, as they say, but with intention.

So go. Love intentionally, extravagantly, unconditionally.

The broken world waits in darkness for the light that is you.

L. R. Knost

There’s some heavy astrology coming our way this week as the Saturn-Pluto conjunction in Capricorn (January 12) takes place two days after a Full Moon/Lunar Eclipse (January 10) cutting across the Cancer/Capricorn axis of the zodiac.

The Saturn-Pluto conjunction is the most important planetary event of the two. A rare occurrence in astrology, these two major planets only meet once every 35 years or so.

Together, Saturn and Pluto conjure up themes of darkness, both planets linked to the colour black. They represent absolute power, dictatorship, tyranny and the dark side of power and control.

World Events

At their bleakest, they are a symbol of death and destruction. The conjunction often coincides with times of hardship and war and here we stand on the brink of a major world conflict. An assassination in Iran, threats and bravado, men playing a dangerous game.

The symbolism tragically fits the apocalyptic scenes coming out of Australia too, as millions of animals are wiped out and human beings mourn the loss of life, their homes & possessions, their countryside left black and desolate.

Major planetary events often show clearly in the world as the movement of the planets mirrors life on earth. Yet, they work differently on a personal level. And, if astrology is to be of any value, then we must learn to work with the symbolism of the planets, to heed their lessons.

Personal Lessons

Saturn rules time and karma in astrology, the planet of self-discipline and authority. Pluto rules all things hidden & the underworld, the planet of extremes linked to annihilation and transformation. Here are some ways the Saturn-Pluto conjunction may be calling you in your own life:

Get real and deal with the facts. Look at the truth of the situation and confront whatever’s in front of you. We need to do this in our world right now but it’s also valuable on a personal level. This is not the time to hide your head under the sand. Acceptance and truth are the ways to deal with Saturn-Pluto as it lays bare the reality of your/our situation.

Notice what in your life is coming to an end or where you’re ready to stop and move on. You might give up a project or job that’s going nowhere, you could decide to drastically alter your life if you’ve been working too hard or you’ve been unemployed. Think of this major astrology as a reality check and a positive time for facing up to your situation and making decisions.

Detox, declutter, release and let go. If you want to give up a bad habit, this would be a great time to do so. If you want to pare back your life to essentials, go for it. Full Moons are ideal for shedding and releasing what’s no longer needed. Pluto likes to purge, Saturn’s great for self-discipline. Together, these key planets are packed full of will-power and resilience.

Be ruthless & claim your power. The Saturn-Pluto combination is fantastic if you need to be persistent in your life, issue an ultimatum or refuse to put up with bad behaviour. Pluto is the planet of extremes, so decide where in life you need to up the ante and take a stand. If someone’s trying to control your fate or you’ve lost charge of a situation, step up your game.

Bring something to completion. Saturn moved in to Capricorn two years ago and is in its sign of rulership, a symbol of the empire builder. Saturn’s premise is that hard work reaps reward and that self-discipline and endurance pay off. Pluto adds laser focus to the mix and it’s an ideal time to knuckle down and complete what you started. Make that deadline. Alternatively, accept defeat or cut your losses so you can move on.

Flex your survival instinct. If life has ‘razed you to the ground’ in true Saturn-Pluto style, take your time and build from the ground up, slowly, one step at a time. One of Pluto’s zodiac symbols is the phoenix who rises from the ashes. If or when you reach the end of the road, find a new path. Don’t look back and move on.

Ditch the fear. Saturn is the planet most closely linked to fear and doubt. Pluto transits take you on a journey in to the dark night of the soul. Therefore, it’s important to remember that in most cases worrying helps no-one. Yes, it’s wise to be cautious and keep yourself safe and away from danger. Rather than allow yourself to be waylaid by fear, however, get practical, deal with the reality of your situation and crack on.

Saturn-Pluto Planetary Aspects

Find out where the Saturn-Pluto conjunction falls in your horoscope. If the conjunction falls close to a planet or angle between 22-24 degrees, then it’s personal.

The square and opposition (i.e. the cardinal signs – Aries, Cancer, Libra, Capricorn) are most challenging, whereas the conjunction – Capricorn – could go either way. A breakdown, a finale or a transformation, a final push.

If the Saturn-Pluto conjunction makes a trine or sextile aspect to your horoscope (i.e. the earth and water signs; Taurus & Virgo; Scorpio & Pisces), this symbolises a positive force for you. Notice who or what’s supporting you, who’s got your back and where you have super human strength.

If you want to know what the Saturn-Pluto conjunction is calling forth in your horoscope, regardless of whether it triggers your key planets/angles, this article is for you: Saturn-Pluto Conjunction Through The Star Signs. I hope you’ll find it helpful as an additional read.