As the moon grows darker, an inner light is growing stronger. In the next days (until Nov 13) a sacred portal to peace and prosperity opens with Diwali, the Festival of Lights and the New Moon on Nov 13.

The power of light is at a low point in the northern hemisphere, as the nights grow longer, and the moon reaches its darkest phase in the lunar cycle. This new moon marks the end of the harvest season, and the approach of winter’s introspective phase.

Diwali signifies the triumph of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and hope over despair.  In India it’s a time of celebration, social gatherings and the welcoming of a new year with glowing diyas, candles and fireworks.

Lakshmi, the goddess of abundance, Ganesha, the remover of obstacles, and Kubera, god of wealth are honored during Diwali.

According to Vedic Astrology, the new moon is in the area of the sky known as Vishaka, “the star of purpose.” Vishaka is a fierce and potent Vedic sign that intensifies the power of focus, fire, and light. Ancient rites of fire, employed to dispel obstacles, enhance concentration, and unlock new levels of insight, are empowered by this nakshatra.

Know your birth Nakshatra?  Calculate yours and get a free guide.

The Diwali New Moon symbolizes the fire of light and truth in our lives, and the celebration of the upholding of a cosmic order—dharma.

On Nov 10 the birth of the goddess of wealth, Laksmi, is celebrated, along with Lord Dhanvantari, who brought Ayurvedic healing and wisdom to the earth. This is an auspicious time for commencing health rituals and remedies.

Take heed, amid the Diwali blessings, a tense and difficult astrological alignment is occurring.  Warrior Mars joins this new moon and opposes violent and erratic Uranus. Impulsivity and sudden energy shifts are likely, and it’s not advisable to take risks, or be pushy with yourself or others. This conflict prone energy does not bode well for the war in the Middle East, and a dangerous threshold could be reached around this time.

A sense of hopelessness or frustration can go hand in hand with this intense astrological weather, so take advantage of the spiritual power of prayer during Diwali.

It’s said that in dark times, the power of light grows, just as candlelight seems to brighten when the lights go out. The new moon of Diwali glows with an inner light of hope, determination, and courage. Light a lamp on the New Moon of Nov 13 to offer a light of peace and prosperity into the world.

How these planetary transits affect you personally depends on your birth chart.  Book a Vedic Astrology reading to learn more.