Capricorn
~ The Dual Mountains of Human Life ~
Capricorn is the astrological sign that initiates humanity into each calendar year. As an earth sign, it encourages us to give grounded expression to the wisest aspects of ourselves. Remarkably, it is a zodiacal force that also impulses us to inwardly reach toward the subtle and lofty dimensions of awareness—the apex of consciousness. Capricorn is therefore a paradoxical sign. It emphasizes both the heights and the depths of human existence. It impels us to live a practical outer life while simultaneously holding an elevated state of consciousness.
Capricorn is symbolized by a mountain upon which a goat arduously climbs. Yet it is important to realize that there are two mountains pertaining to Capricorn, not just one. The mountain most emphasized in traditional astrology is referred to as the Mount of Ambition. When climbing it, personality motivation is the force that guides one’s outer life. Indeed, this is at the heart of many of the traditional astrological perspectives and assumptions about Capricorn. Essentially it is the mountain that shapes and influences those who have not yet awakened to the soul and its lofty promptings.
However, to the disciple it is the other mountain that he or she must ascend. Called the Mount of Spirit, it represents the mountain of consciousness. When on the Path, each of us is inwardly trying to climb an inner mountain, in that we are striving to polarize our consciousness at a subtler and wiser perch, deep within. This is the influential effect that Capricorn has in the life of the disciple. It emphasizes the essential need to live a grounded spiritual life while simultaneously extending ourselves to the mountaintop of consciousness—the place whereon form comes to an end and spiritual liberation is sure reward.
William Meader
Emergentlight.com