October 2023: Tarot spread for the solar eclipse in Libra

Plus some journaling questions, an astro-tarot forecast and an exploration of the Sabian symbol for the new moon and solar eclipse in Libra.

The October 2023 new moon falls in the sign of Libra. The Libra archetype is closely associated with justice and maintaining balance in social interactions and within the self. They are the true diplomats among the zodiac archetypes, and focus on fair dealings in all their relationships.

Spiritually, the Libra archetype teaches the principle of intimate balance, of the ability to remain centered and true to yourself no matter what may be going on around you. This is a skill that can be particularly helpful for those of us who turn up our noses at societal expectations as we dance to the tune of our own drum beat. Being able to remain centered is also an important skill to have if you’re surrounded by toxic people – and in these times, even toxic politics! One of the easiest ways to remain centered is through the breath, and by being able to distinguish between the things that are in your control, and those that aren’t.

We are also entering eclipse season, with a solar eclipse in Libra. Solar eclipses typically lend extra oomph to the new moon, helping us to break habitual patterns, bringing in an awakening of sorts, and offering us a cosmic reboot.

The October 2023 solar eclipse in Libra focuses on our relationships and how we choose to show up for the people in our lives.

This Libra solar eclipse can also bring the thoughts we engage with into sharp focus, helping us shed those patterns and blocks that keep us stuck and small. It’s a good time to work on enhancing our inner strength and confidence, as it reminds us that we already have what we need to lead our best lives.

Astro-tarot influences for the October 2023 new moon and solar eclipse in Libra

To throw some more light on the astrology of the new moon in Libra, let’s take a look at the astro-tarot influences of this lunation. The new moon falls in decan 3, which is represented by the 4 of Swords. This is to be interpreted in conjunction with Justice, which is associated with Libra.

Themes of balance, rest, and restoration are strong under this Libra moon. And in the always-on environment in which we live, these themes are gaining even more urgency.

Already, we are starting to see a shift away from the crazy allure of technology — especially social media. Many of us are starting to re-evaluate our relationship with and attachment to platforms like Instagram, and are taking a step back as we look for more sustainable, humane ways of sharing our vision and voice.

Read: Why focus on the numbers may be the worst advice for creatives

Added to this is the capitalistic drive to produce more and consume even more, as a result of which our homes are stuffed with things that bring us but a momentary “shopping high”, but then clog up our spaces and our energy. This solar eclipse in Libra can be just the catalyst we need to declutter, donate, and re-evaluate our relationship with mindless consumption.

This is also an excellent time to undertake a healing journey, especially around our ancestral lines or family of origin. You can design a small ritual to heal or bless your ancestral line — there is a deeply healing and restorative energy around this Libra new moon solar eclipse that is very supportive for such a ritual.

Sabian Symbol for the October 2023 new moon

The Sabian Symbol for Libra 21 degrees is A Child Giving Birds A Drink At A Fountain.

This is such an innocent, giving, nurturing symbol that offers a beautiful snapshot of the energies of this lunation. As Lynda Hill explains in 360 Degrees of Wisdom: The Sabian Oracle, “The interaction of the ‘Child’ and the ‘Birds’ can bring joy and wonder. ‘Birds’ represent spiritual messages, the ‘Child’ is the physical presence of innocence, naivety and fun, and the water represents the flow and empathy of emotional energy.”

There’s a generosity of spirit and a beautiful flow of energy, messages, and support in this symbol. A reminder, perhaps, to embody some of that delightfully innocent spirit of giving, which can so easily get buried in our adult “what’s in it for me” attitude.

Linda Hill writes, “If you, or another, have the resources to nourish or to help someone or something, the effort required will be minimal, but the rewards may be well worth it. Show some unconditional generosity and enjoy the resulting experience.”

Tarot spread for the October 2023 solar eclipse in Libra

Here’s a tarot spread to tap into the energy of this Libra new moon.

1. What needs to be healed: A pattern or block that is related to your family lineage
2. What old ancestral trauma needs to be released: A block or energy that is related to your ancestral line
3. What needs to be blessed: Use this card to devise a blessing for your ancestral/family line. Pay attention to the suit and any symbols that stand out to you.
4. Mamma moon says: This is always an encouraging message.

If you share your spreads on Instagram, please use the hashtag #moontarotstories or tag me @moderngypsy.in so we can connect with each other.

Journaling questions for the October 2023 solar eclipse

Not a cardslinger? No problem. Here are some reflection questions for you instead.

What needs decluttering — in your home and in your digital life?

What outmoded beliefs do you need to shed?

What patterns are no longer serving you?