Declination in Astrology: The Steps of the Sun [English] By Paul F Newman

Author: Paul F Newman

Brand: The Wessex Astrologer

Edition: 2

Binding: Paperback

Details: 

**"Declination in Astrology: The Steps of the Sun"** by **Paul F. Newman** is a highly specialized book that delves into the concept of **declination** in astrology—a technique that is often overshadowed by the more commonly used tools such as **zodiac signs**, **houses**, and **aspects**. Declination, while sometimes seen as an advanced or niche technique, offers valuable insights into the **latitude** of celestial bodies (planets, Sun, and Moon) relative to the Earth's equator. 

This book is an in-depth exploration of the role **declination** plays in astrological interpretation, with a particular focus on the **Sun** and its movements, which are referred to as the **"steps of the Sun"**. Newman’s work is aimed at both experienced astrologers seeking to deepen their knowledge and beginners who want to understand the influence of declination in the broader context of astrology.

### Overview of the Book

In **"Declination in Astrology"**, Newman explains the concept of declination in simple terms, gradually building an understanding of how this element of astrology interacts with other astrological principles, such as **longitude**, **aspects**, and **house placements**. The **Sun's declination**, for example, reflects its position relative to the Earth’s equator and can offer important clues about a person’s **inner nature**, **psychological makeup**, and even the **timing of significant life events**.

The book details the techniques and importance of analyzing **declination** in combination with the more traditional aspects of astrology. By understanding the **solar declination**, astrologers can uncover deeper layers of a person’s **individuality**, **ambitions**, and **life journey**.

### Key Themes and Concepts in the Book

1. **What is Declination?**  
   - Declination is a measure of how far a planet is from the celestial equator, expressed in degrees (north or south). While the **longitude** of a planet is its position along the **ecliptic** (the Sun’s path through the sky), **declination** tells us how far above or below the ecliptic the planet lies.
   - In practical terms, the **declination** is used to analyze planetary **latitudes**. For example, when a planet’s declination is in the same or opposite direction of the **Sun's**, it can create a stronger or weaker effect in the individual’s life.

2. **The Importance of the Sun’s Declination**  
   - In astrology, the **Sun** symbolizes a person’s core identity, ego, will, and life force. The **Sun's declination** represents how an individual’s **self-expression** is manifested, and it can show an individual’s **ability to shine** in the world.
   - The book offers detailed explanations of how the **Sun’s declination** affects the way people express themselves in the world, such as through their **leadership style**, **career ambitions**, and **personal drive**.  
   - **Solstitial Points**: Special attention is given to the **solstitial points** (the points of maximum declination), as these are key turning points in a person’s life and personality development. The **Summer Solstice** and **Winter Solstice** are points of maximum declination of the Sun, and the book explains how these events in the **Solar cycle** are crucial in understanding an individual’s astrological makeup.

3. **How Declination Works in Combination with Longitude**  
   - One of the most powerful techniques explored in this book is how **declination** works in tandem with **longitude**. For example, a planet may be **in aspect** with another planet by **longitude**, but their positions may also interact in terms of **declination**.
   - **Parallel and Contra-parallel Aspects**: In declination, the key aspects are **parallel** (when two planets are at the same declination) and **contra-parallel** (when two planets are at opposite declinations). These aspects function in a similar way to conjunctions and oppositions, but they are considered more potent in specific situations.

4. **The Step of the Sun: Symbolism of the Sun’s Declination**  
   - The book explores the **symbolism of the Sun's declination** through its **annual cycle**. As the Sun moves from **Northern declination** to **Southern declination**, it metaphorically represents the journey from **outward expression** and **public visibility** (when the Sun is at its Northernmost point) to **inward reflection** and **spiritual growth** (when it moves to its Southernmost point).
   - By understanding the **"steps of the Sun"** in this way, astrologers can gain a deeper understanding of **cycles of growth** and **spiritual development** in an individual's life.

5. **Declination and Personal Growth**  
   - Newman explores the way **declination** affects an individual’s **spiritual path** and **psychological development**. He argues that the **latitude** of a planet influences how easily or challenging it is for someone to express certain traits or abilities.
   - For instance, someone with a **Sun parallel Moon** (a parallel aspect in declination) may find a natural ease between their conscious ego (Sun) and unconscious emotions (Moon). This can help them navigate challenges with a strong sense of internal harmony.
   - Conversely, challenging declinations (such as a **Sun contra-parallel Saturn**) can represent an individual who may struggle with issues of authority, self-doubt, or a sense of restriction or delay in self-expression.

6. **Declination in Predictive Astrology**  
   - In addition to understanding personality traits and psychological makeup, **declination** is also a tool for predictive astrology. The book delves into how **solar and planetary declinations** can be used to time significant events or transitions in an individual’s life. 
   - Declination is often used in combination with the **transits** and **progressions** of planets, giving astrologers additional insight into when a certain phase or life event might come to fruition.

7. **Declination and the Moon**  
   - The **Moon’s declination** is also examined in detail. Since the Moon governs emotions, instincts, and the subconscious, its declination can reveal a person’s **emotional rhythm** and how they respond to life’s challenges.
   - A **parallel Moon** might indicate someone who is **emotionally aligned** with their environment, while a **contra-parallel Moon** could indicate emotional **conflict** or **opposition** between internal needs and external circumstances.

8. **Practical Application of Declination in Natal Charts**  
   - One of the key sections of the book is dedicated to the **practical application** of declination in natal charts. It includes techniques for calculating **declination**, interpreting **parallel and contra-parallel** aspects, and integrating these findings into the overall chart reading.
   - The book provides guidance on how to incorporate **declination** into a **full astrological analysis**, especially for readers who are already familiar with traditional chart interpretation.

### Key Takeaways and Benefits

- **A Deeper Level of Chart Interpretation**: By learning to include **declination** in your chart analysis, you add an extra layer of depth to your understanding of planetary influences. This can help you gain a more nuanced understanding of how people will react to various life situations and why they may face particular challenges or experiences.
- **Timeless Symbolism of the Sun**: Understanding the **steps of the Sun** and its cycle of declination provides insight not just into **individual characteristics**, but also into broader themes of **spiritual evolution** and **inner transformation**.
- **Practical for Experienced Astrologers**: While **declination** is often overlooked by beginners, Newman's book is aimed at astrologers who want to move beyond the basics and incorporate more advanced techniques into their practice.
- **Improved Predictive Accuracy**: Using declination, alongside other astrological tools like **transits** and **progressions**, offers a more precise method for predicting life events, making timing predictions more reliable.

### Target Audience

- **Intermediate and Advanced Astrologers**: This book is particularly useful for astrologers who have a basic understanding of astrology and want to deepen their knowledge with a focus on a specialized technique like **declination**.
- **Astrology Students**: Anyone studying astrology who is ready to explore more complex techniques will find this book to be a great resource for advancing their practice.
- **Astrology Practitioners**: Professional astrologers looking to refine their skills and add more dimensions to their readings will benefit greatly from Newman's exploration of declination and its uses.
- **Those Interested in Solar Cycles and Symbolism**: Readers with an interest in the **symbolism** of the Sun, its **cycle**, and its influence on personal development will appreciate the focus on how the **Sun's declination** plays into a person’s life path.

### Conclusion

**"Declination in Astrology: The Steps of the Sun"** by **Paul F. Newman** is an essential read for astrologers interested in deepening their understanding of how the **Sun’s declination** and **planetary latitudes** shape an individual’s personality, life events, and spiritual journey. With its focus on **solar symbolism** and **advanced astrological techniques**, this book helps readers integrate the concept of declination into their practice, offering new insights into both natal astrology and predictive forecasting. Whether you’re an experienced astrologer or a dedicated student, Newman's book provides a valuable resource for mastering this often-overlooked but highly effective astrological tool.

Number Of Pages: 212

Release Date: 03-11-2006

EAN: 9781902405223

Package Dimensions: 9.3 x 6.1 x 0.5 inches

Languages: English