Between the border of Jerusalem and Jericho lies a valley that is known as the valley of the shadow of death, located parallel to the Jordan River to the south of Jericho in the Judean Hills, in an area that is more commonly referred to as the Judean desert, or wilderness. The name comes from what are admittedly extreme weather conditions, with temperatures often reaching well above 40 C/104 F during the long summer months. This place is known as Wadi Qelt.
It seems the term comes from that fact that for travelers passing through this area as a shortcut between Jerusalem and Jericho they are subject to such an acute environment and sweltering conditions. Interestingly, despite its fearsome name, Wadi Qelt, is a beautiful place. Descriptions include the presence of jagged rock cliffs carved out of millennia of watercourse, and a short-lived beauty each winter and spring following the rainy season. during this special period, wildflowers blossom, a trickle of water may run through the base of the valley, and birdsong can echo along the path.
Wadi Qelt has become a widely accepted metaphor for periods of life that are challenging and feel palatably harsh. It is a time when our souls face darkness, and it seems there is no end to the valley we find ourselves in. A thick sense of dread often accompanies this journey into what can truly be a figurative death of something, followed by a rebirth or renewal. Why do things like this occur? I do not claim to have the answer; however, they are without a doubt an integral part of the human experience.
In astrological terms, it is no surprise that the planets associated with valleys, shadows, and death are Saturn and Pluto. And so, it is that I now dub them, Brothers of Wadi Qelt! These two archetypal energies when transiting through an individual’s natal chart, more often than not are harbingers of tremendously transformational times; albeit often accompanied by stress, grief, and discomfort. The dark lords teach us things that can only be learned by a frightening disempowerment of the self that ultimately leads to maturity, wisdom, and a higher evolution of our soul.
Knowing where and how these brothers might be currently impacting your life can bring awareness and meaning to what you may be experiencing. An astrological reading can shine a spotlight on the potential effects their cosmic dance might correlate to in your life. Armed with this insight, I believe you can find more resources from within, seeing the trials and struggles through a more defined lens. This is the gift of astrology.
And so, it is in the ageless wisdom of the Psalmist, "Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me"… that we might find solace, trusting that the universe has a plan for each of us. Ever unfurling, timeless, wise, and there for our highest and best evolvement.
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