Introduction to Sectors

A PROVISIONAL GUIDE BOOK TO THE FIRST LEVEL OF

THE OPERATIVE TRAINING IN ASTROSHAMANISM

INTRODUCTION TO THE SECTORS

“In my Father’s house are many mansions” (John 14:2)

The following introduction describes the content of the literature that you are going to receive during the voyaging part of the First Level of the Operative Training in Astroshamanism. For each Sector you will find a list of correspondences derived from various traditions and sources. Such indications do not constitute a complete survey and are only meant to provide some examples. The need to find correspondences between what is perceived by human beings and what is unseen and belongs to non-ordinary dimensions is very ancient. Its basic motivation comes from the awareness of the underlying unity of all existence. This unity is an obvious fact that can be observed at all levels of life. Yet most human beings seem to reside in a split reality based on the identification with an autonomous entity (ego) aimed at supporting the belief in separation. In the course of its evolution the ego has shaped a complex collective hallucination. Its form is spread into a myriad of fragmented pieces, each one purporting to stand on its own and refusing to acknowledge the whole to which it belongs. As the ego reality is based on separation, the best way to explain to human beings the nature of unity seems to be that of starting from separation itself. This is the essential strategy of the work with correspondences. During human history it has adapted to various cultures and undergone several modifications, though its inner motivation has always been the same: to connect the illusive reality of separation (that causes me to perceive something as separate from myself) with the true dimension of unity (where I experientially acknowledge everything as part of me). In astroshamanism the Sectors and their Totem Spirits are the key archetypal representations of all that exists according to human perception.

The associations given in the Text are gathered from many sources. You will notice that some correspondences apply to more than one Sector. This means that they have characteristics related with various Sectors. It can also mean that they are ascribed to different Sectors according to sources and traditions. Please be aware that there are many divergent views on the topic. The correspondences given in this text do not purport in any way to be better or more significant than others and are merely provided as examples.

In the first page of each of the next Lessons, under the name of the Sector, you will find the icon of the related Totem Spirit and a first list of basic correspondences: i.e. Sign, House, Planets, Element, Quality, Direction, Season. Indications of the Totem Spirit and Epic States,[1] according to the Epic of the Sacred Cone and of Rays[2] are also given.

The Planets are grouped into the following categories:

1) the exoteric rulers. They include: the contemporary rulerships employed by most astrologers after the discovery of Uranus (1781), Neptune (1846) and Pluto (1930); the rulerships used in Ptolemaic astrology and based upon the Sun, Moon and the five traditional planets (Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn); an additional rulership, used by some astrologers in the past 20 years, which considers the four major asteroids (Ceres, Vesta, Pallas, Juno) and the planetoid Chiron. The exoteric rulers represent the major focus of the First Level of the Training.

2) the esoteric rulers. They consist of the rulerships which, according to esoteric astrology and the teachings received by Alice Bailey, apply to advanced individuals and initiates. Please be aware that these rulerships are given merely for astrological reference and do not necessarily mean that astroshamanism is connected with the ideas of esoteric astrology.

A second list of correspondences covers a wider spectrum and includes the following categories:

Animals: these associations are significant as for many traditions the Sectors or Spirits were designated by the name of an animal. The word zodiac itself comes from the Greek zodiakon (pertaining to animals). Some correspondences derive from ancient myths and indicate the emblems or the animals used as a sacrifice to the planetary gods.

Plants: the vegetable kingdom was the major field of research for traditional astrological correspondences. To trace the original vibration and find the planetary correspondence, medieval people considered colour, form, smell and other characteristics of the plant. In Europe this practice was called Signatura Rerum and became the basis for identifying healing remedies. Up to the 18th century it was inconceivable for a doctor not to have astrological erudition. The plants that had affinities with a planet or a part of the body were used to treat the ailments related with that specific planet or part of the body. The shamanic approach is different as it tends to disregard the physical form of the plant and focus instead on its inner vibration. The purpose is that of connecting and establishing a relationship with the Spirit or Deva of the plant. Plants can be used in different ways to evoke or connect with the qualities of a Sector. They can be employed as smudging herbs, ornaments, food, beverages and for building ritual tools or shamanically relating to their energies. Please be careful when using plants and make sure that what you do is appropriate and respectful both for the plant and yourself. Also, as some plants could be poisonous or dangerous for your health, it is essential to consult a competent herbalist before attempting to use them.

Minerals: associations here differ considerably according to tradition.

Spirits: included in this category are just a few examples of gods, demigods, heroes, immortals, apostles, angels, nature spirits and other mythical entities who are traditionally associated with the Sectors. They are given with the indication of their culture or tradition of reference written in brackets. The following abbreviations are used: Aztec (Azt.), Babilonian (Bab.), Briton (Brit.), Christian (Chr.), Egyptian (Eg.), Etruscan (Etr.), Greek (Gr.), Japanese (Jap.), Persian (Pers.), Roman (Rom.), Sumerian (Sum.). Also the characters of the Italian Commedia dell’Arte[3] are included.

Tarots: the correspondence of the major arcana and some minor arcana.

Anatomy/Physiology: the anatomical parts and physiological functions of the body according to traditional astrological correspondences.

Associations: a general list of sundry associations.

Calendar: a list of days that mark spiritual or social events, special Christian patron saints’ commemoration, ancient festivals according to various traditions on this planet, with particular reference to the Western world. The dates of some ancient or tribal festivities given here may be approximate. Some ceremonies change their date every year. They may be scheduled to fall on the closest weekend to permit wide participation or to the nearest Full or New Moon. Please inquire further for exact dates. Being aware of the calendar is a way of honouring/acknowledging traditions at Level 1 and retrieving/healing whatever is deeply associated with them in the context of your own journey.

Cinema: a list of actors and directors with relevant traits of their charts connected with the Sector involved. Information on the sign position of the Moon (MO), the Ascendant (AS) and other astrological information (such as the presence of a stellium, i.e. more than three planets in the sign or house of the related Sector) is given in brackets (see Abbreviations). Titles of movies associated with the energy of the Sector are also given with the name of their director. Please be the aware that although these titles are not necessarily movies that the author recommends, they can be useful for stimulating both qualities and grievances of the Sector involved.

Colours: the colours of the spectrum are associated with specific planets and signs. There are many models according to traditions. The given correspondences represent a general consensus of opinion.

Countries and Places: the first documented attempt to give astrological rulership to countries is in the Astronomica by Manilus. Another set of correspondences was given by Ptolemy in the Tetrabiblos. He divided the planet into four parts, each ruled by one triplicity and subdivided into smaller regions ruled by one of the 12 signs. At the centre of the known world was an area of overlapping influences where each sign ruled an additional territory. The list in the Guide Book is derived from the information given by the above astrologers and more recent ones such as Lilly, Raphael, Sepharial, Carter, Green. Some of the correspondences on this list are controversial. The indications in brackets refer to Alice Bailey’s esoteric astrology and identify what follows: (1) the countries governed by the sign as personality ruler or Sun sign of the specified country, i.e. the one which conditions the masses and Level 1; (2) the countries governed by the sign as egoic ruler or Ascendant of the specified country, i.e. the one influencing advanced beings and Level 2.

Detectors: these are detailed categories of projections and correspondences, based upon the astrological system of the derived houses,[4] which disclose information about the state of each Sector and all its related associations. Their function is that of showing from the outside the state of particular areas in life as represented by each Sector. These detectors, as they are met both in dreams, thoughts or in the outer reality, operate as links to specific sectors and astrological houses. They comprise virtually anyone or anything: from my closest relations up to a distant third cousin or even the dog of my neighbour and the car of my sister’s employer. The detectors are a useful device to bring awareness as regards projections and to help the mind to get acquainted with the web of life and the sectors of the Sacred Circle. The way in which I perceive the detectors of a sector also shows me the quality of my relationship with the related Totem Spirit and all the corresponding associations. Examples of detectors are listed for each sector, together with combinations of numbers identifying the derived houses. For example, Sector 12 includes the combination 10-3. This means that any correspondence to Sector 10 or detector of the tenth house combined with any of Sector 3 can be a detector for Sector 12, i.e. the career (10) of my first brother (3), the knee (10) of the partner of my third son (3), etc. Please be aware that these details are provided only for the astrology-minded reader and are not considered essential in order to work with astroshamanism. This information may be useful at a later stage and, for the time being, you are not required to fully understand its meaning and implications. For further information on detectors see “Sector Detectors and Shamanic Forms” in Franco Santoro, Astroshamanism: A Journey Into the Inner Universe, Findhorn Press, 2003.

Esoteric Astrology Keynote: the seed thought employed for the zodiac meditations according to Alice Bailey’s esoteric astrology.

Famous People: a list of individuals with significant traits of their charts connected with the Sector involved. Information on the sign position of the Moon (MO), the Ascendant (AS) and other astrological information is given in brackets (see Abbreviations).

Grievances: these are any physical, emotional, mental or spiritual attitude, situation or addictive behaviour, past life experience, even of apparent well-being, that supports the ego and the illusion of separation. A term which is often employed in the text to indicate grievances is Graha which, according to the Epic of the Sacred Cone, represent the key material of multidimensional exchange that, when consciously acknowledged, experienced and released for this purpose, contribute to the undoing of the illusion of separation and the perception of unity. If this is not the case, Graha operate as antagonistic forces bolstering up the hallucination of separation, blocking the portals to the territories of the Sectors and preventing the connection with the Spirit Guide. Graha can also be considered as inner aspects connected with shadow sides in ourselves that prevent the access to key strategic operative areas. Here Graha hamper the development of our powers until we find clarity about the purity of our Intent and are willing to connect it with our Function. In the context of the Epic, there are various categories and expressions of Graha. Basically they articulate according to the traditional scheme of Totem Spirits. The list of grievances briefly mention excesses, deficits and physical manifestations for each Sector.

An excess occurs when the energy of a Sector is overemphasised and becomes the major form of identification or condensation of the subject. This condition is bound to support the generation of Graha. Astrologically it may be identified by the prevalence of a certain Sector in the natal chart (for example, many planets or factors in a sign, house, strong aspects or transits on the ruler of a Sector or its proximity to an angle or mid-point). These excesses can often be balanced by employing healing tools related to the opposite Sector (for example, excesses in Aries can be healed through Libran tools). A deficit exists when the energy of a Sector is lacking or denied, repressed and projected. Astrologically this may be represented by a lack, inhibition or disturbance of a Sector (for example no planets or relevant factors in a sign or house, detrimental aspects or transits of Saturn on the ruler of a Sector, the sign and house of Saturn, and even an excess of planets and factors in a sign or house). Deficits are often healed through the use of tools related to the energy of the Sector which is lacking. Physical grievances manifest through physical illness and ailments which correspond to the specific physical pathology of the Sector involved. They also include the material aspects of life (money, work, possessions, land, houses, etc.). Emotional, mental and spiritual grievances are not treated in details in the text, though some of them are mentioned in the excesses and deficit lists.[5]

Hours: the corresponding hour of the day given for both polarities of the Sector.

Incense/Smudge Herbs: Incense and herbs used in ceremonies and astroshamanic work related to each Sector.

Labour of Hercules: The twelve missions completed by Hercules or Heracles.

Letters: Greek: the corresponding Greek alphabet letter given for both polarities of the Sector. This is part of a Gnostic astrological code embracing the 24 letters of the Greek alphabet. Here the Zodiac describes the naked body of a celestial woman (Sōma Sophia), floating in the sky above the Earth. The physical associations of the 12 pairs of astrological signs identify the zones of her body, with the first and the second polarity corresponding to the right and left side of the boy respectively. Roman: the corresponding Roman alphabet letter given for both polarities of the Sector. This system considers the main western current alphabet and is strategically devised for astroshamanic work.

Literature: a list of authors with significant traits of their charts connected with the Sector involved. Information on the sign position of the Moon (MO), the Ascendant (AS) and other astrological information is given in brackets (see Abbreviations). Titles of works associated with the Sector are also listed. Please be the aware that although these titles are not necessarily books that the author recommends, they can be useful for stimulating both qualities and grievances of the Sector involved.

Music: a list of musicians with relevant traits of their charts connected with the Sector involved. Information on the sign position of the Moon (MO), the Ascendant (AS) and other astrological information is given in brackets (see Abbreviations). Titles of works associated with the energy of the Sector are also given. Please be the aware that although these titles are not necessarily piece of music that the author recommends, they can be useful for stimulating both qualities and grievances of the Sector involved.

Note: the corresponding musical note.

Occupations: a basic list of professions associated with the Sector.

Physiognomy: a brief and very general description of some physical characteristics of human beings displaying prominent traits of the Sector.

Qualities: these include the higher qualities of the Sector.

The text of the Lessons continues with the image of the astroshamanic traditional seal and a description of the general characteristics of the Sector, its Sign, House and Planets. In these sections the astrological glyphs[6] and the planetary references to some deities are briefly described. The Lesson also contains topics and teachings related to its Sector, Healing Tools, the Work Guide and an Appendix containing examples of astroshamanic journeys or experiences.

Healing Tools: a variety of practices are given in this section. The invitation is to use three of these practices at least once, then choose one and do it preferably daily, every other day or three times per week minimum (achieving a total of at least 12 practices), either for 21 days or for a cycle of the Moon (28 days). The healing tools derive from different traditions and are generally divided into two basic categories: stimulating, to compensate deficits in the Sector, and balancing, to deal with excesses. General indications about the more appropriate tools can be gathered by referring to the list of grievances. Yet be aware that in astroshamanism the individuation of healing tools and remedies require a careful assessment of the dynamics involved prior to an experiential session and exam of the astrological chart. In this context the purpose is not that of getting rid of grievances and problems. The aim is to consider the multidimensional nature of all experiences and to identify their true Intent. Astroshamanism gives essential priority to the spiritual dimension of grievances. In this context it does not involve any medical diagnosis or psychotherapeutic analysis. All healing tools are here used for the health of the soul and the expansion of human awareness. Please be aware that the Training is designed to stimulate and develop your unique connection with the many healing tools available. There is no one particular healing tool which works for everybody and you are encouraged to explore your own path in this field within the structure provided by the Training and your relationship with the Guide. As you practice the exercises provided in this section please firmly keep in mind that the aim here is taking up and embodying the power, energy and teaching of Totem Spirit of the Sector involved. Secondly – from a physical, emotional and mental standpoint – there should be no straining in the practice. The recommendation is that you do the exercises according to your capacity. The practices provided in this book have been safely used in the course of many workshops and sessions. Yet, any application of the practices, ideas and suggestions of the Training is at the participant’s sole discretion and risk. If you have relevant physical or psychological problems, consult your physician or therapist before exercising with the Training. The instructions presented are in no way intended as a substitute for proper medical or psychological treatment. The author disclaims any liability or loss in direct or indirect connection with the practices and topics described in this work.

Appendix: it includes the partial description of examples of shamanic journeys, practices and other non-ordinary experiences related to the Sector involved. They constitute a short anthology of my early voyages and reflect initial traits of my apprenticeship, which do not necessarily coincide with my current experience and understanding.

Work Guide: it contains exercises, questions and practices aimed at helping you ground some of the major topics of the Training. They do not mean to test your ability, trick or quiz you. You are not going to be judged or given a grade according to the way you reply. Their function is to allow you to embody the lessons and become available to their inner or hidden meaning. They are a way to honour the relationship with this work. Use them with gentleness as a sacred act to acknowledge the different parts of your journey. You are invited to employ these practices and submit the answers to the questions monthly or quarterly (should this not be feasible, please find an alternative agreement with your Teacher). This is a requirement only if the First Level Certification is desired. The Training may be attended also without receiving certification.

In the Work Guide you will also find a section devoted to Astrological Data and Exploration of the Chart. This allows you to trace the basic astrological alphabet in your own natal chart. Please be aware that in the First Level of the Training you are not required to study astrology. A course in Astrology is offered either with the Second Level or at a later stage within the First Level.

Abbreviations

AQ – Aquarius, AR – Aries, AS – Ascendant, CA – Cancer, CP – Capricorn, GE – Gemini, JU – Jupiter, LE – Leo, LI – Libra, MA – Mars, ME – Mercury, MO – Moon, NE – Neptune, PI – Pisces, PL – Pluto, SA – Saturn, SC – Scorpio, SG – Sagittarius, st – stellium[7], SU – Sun, TA – Taurus, UR – Uranus, VE – Venus, VI – Virgo

Notes

[1] The Epic States refer to the correspondent denomination of the Sectors in Handor and Rodnah respectively.
[2] According to the esoteric astrology of Alice Bailey, the seven Rays are the particular forces or types of energy that underlie the entire functioning of the universe.
[3] A form of popular comedy based on free improvisation and originating in Italy in the 16th century. It relied on stereotypical characters usually performed by actors wearing masks. A major way in which shamanism managed to survive in the Western world was through theatre actors and their healing performances disguised as entertainment.
[4] The technique of derived houses consists of examining each of the 12 astrological houses as the Ascendant of a further cycle of 12 houses, making a total of 144 houses. This traditional method was introduced by Eudes Picard (see: Eudes Picard, Astrologie Judiciare, Leymarié, Paris, 1936). It has also been used by Edwin C. Steinbrecher (see: Steinbrecher, op. cit.), though with some differences in the allocation of houses.
[5] For a more detailed list see: Franco Santoro, I Dodici Settori: corso operativo di astrosciamanesimo, SCP, 1997.
[6] Each planetary glyph is defined by a combination of three basic symbols: cross, circle and semi-circle or crescent. The cross depicts both the cosmic axis (the convergence of the vertical and horizontal planes) and the four directions. It is often interpreted as matter and the manifested world. The circle represents totality, wholeness, infinity, the unmanifest or spirit and also the horizontal axis. The semi-circle corresponds to the soul or the unintegrated, limited consciousness.
[7] A cluster of several planets in the same sign or house.