This New Moon in Libra we are celebrating Diwali, the Festival of Lights. Sun & Moon both come together in Libra, both really close to their debilitation points in the sky. Legend has it that Ram (embodiment of Sun) returned home on the day of Diwali after rescuing his wife Sita (embodiment of Moon) & killing Ravana. The citizens of Ayodhya (Ram’s kingdom) back then knowing that both the luminaries in the sky were dark, light the entire path back to the city with 
diyas
diyasThis is symbolic in our lives too. When both Sun & Moon are in difficult dignities astronomically, we can be more deliberate in bringing Sun’s light into our lives by lighting lamps. Diwali also comes after Fall equinox (in the northern hemisphere), where days are getting darker & there’s less access to Sun light as such. Ancient Indians were wise to celebrate this astronomical configuration with light (lamps), sharing desserts, bursting firecrackers & invoking Laxmi. That’s right, on Diwali people invite Goddess Laxmi (goddess of abundance) into their homes as Sita (incarnation of Laxmi) returned home on this day. This new moon also takes place in Libra – Libra is ruled by Venus whose overlord is Laxmi. Libra is also where the Sun has difficult time reigning its power as Libra represents distribution of power amongst the common people. Notice how asserting individuality & wanting power of oneself can lead actually lead to disintegration of power around this time. Notice how working in teams with equal distribution of power or balance of power yields better results around this time. Most presidential democratic elections in US happen around this time of year – which is symbolic because the power of the ultimate authority lies with the people – a Libra principle
In many cultures, Diwali is celebrated over 5 days. It’s starts with:
1. Dhanteras (2 tithis before the new moon) where people buy gold or anything expensive
2. Naraka Chaturdashi: celebration of Krishna, Satyabhama & Kali killing Narakasura
3. Laxmi poojan: inviting Laxmi home
4. New Year (fiscal) as after Ram’s return to Ayodhya, the new cycle of governance began
5. Bhai dhooj: Moon moves in Anuradha nakshatra on this day ruled by Mitra. Mitra represents friendship. The bond of love between siblings is therefore celebrated
When celebrating Diwali this year, remember the reason you are invoking the light & inviting Laxmi into your homes. Set your intentions accordingly. Happy Diwali
~ Malini
