The fixed stars are a vital part of the astrological delineation. On the first level of our astrological art, the practice of horary astrology, the fixed stars have limited use. Within this frame, a horary judgment can be determined solely by the significant positioning of a fixed star on a crucial point in the horary horoscope. On the next level of astrological practice, natal astrology, fixed stars play a critical role, and overlooking them would mean overlooking a significant aspect of a person’s life.

For a fixed star to significantly impact someone’s life, it has to be closely linked to a planet, a cusp, or a part of one’s birth chart. This connection allows the star’s unique qualities and the mythological story associated with the constellation it belongs to, to merge with the individual’s life through the astrological factor it interacts with. The star’s effect on a person’s life can be at all levels of existence; the physical, the psychological, and the spiritual.

Different parts inside the constellation carry a different theme and significance. For instance, fixed stars located in the head of the constellation are associated with the thought process. Every fixed star is associated with one or two planetary forces, and its impact on an individual’s life depends on the essential strength of the associated planet in the person’s horoscope. For instance, a fixed star of the nature of Mercury will manifest negatively if Mercury is placed in Pisces.

From the list of the most notable fixed stars used in horary and natal astrology is Vindemiatrix. Vindemiatrix is one of the fixed stars with a malefic essence. Before we delve into its meaning, it would be great to approach the myth of the constellation where Vindemiatrix is located; the constellation of Virgo.

Virgo is mythologically associated with Astraea, born to the titans Astraeus and Eos (The Dawn), who embodied the celestial virtues of justice, purity, and innocence as a virgin goddess. Her name literally means ‘Starry Maid’. Astraea was disheartened by humanity’s wickedness, withdrawing from the earthly realm and leaving behind the concept of justice to be replaced by Crime. Eventually, she ascended to the night sky, transforming into the constellation of Virgo.

Astria’s essence embodies purity, a quality immortalized as she transforms into a constellation, eternally preserving her virginity. Depicted with symbolic imagery, she holds a balance scale and a palm branch in her right hand, symbolizing the triumph of justice, peace, and harmony. In her left hand, she grasps an ear of corn, representing the act of discernment (a mercurial process) during harvest, in keeping only what is beneficial. The tale of the Starry Maid finds resonance in Christian culture through the figure of the Virgin Mary, who embodies the epitome of purity. Mary was selected from among humanity to serve as the Mother of God, hinting at the dual nature of mortality and divinity, often seen in the double-bodiedness of Virgo.

The Grape Gatherer

Vindemiatrix, a fixed star with the nature of Saturn and Mercury, resides in the right arm of the constellation Virgo, known as the Virgin. Its Latin name translates to “Grape Gatherer.” The name is linked to the mythological figure Ampelos, a charming satyr who earned the affection of Dionysos. Ampelos suffered a fatal fall, breaking his neck. In tribute to their former bond, Dionysos immortalized Ampelos by placing him among the stars, thus becoming one of the luminous entities within the constellation Vindemitor or Vindiatrix.

Vindemiatrix sends a clear message: do not proceed assuming you know it all, or else your actions will backfire. It warns against acting without the proper knowledge, which eventually can lead to foolish mistakes with harmful consequences for yourself and those around you. Likewise, don’t bite off more than you can chew, or you will end up harming yourself. Vindemiatrix points to avoid overextending beyond one’s capabilities, for such ventures will result in breaking your neck. With Vindemiatrix, there is the essence of self-undoing and self-inflicted harm. It points to the stupid things you are about to do and result in messing up your life. Do not do this.

Spiritually, Vindemiatrix embodies the danger of presuming perfection, suggesting that believing oneself is flawless and beyond improvement halts spiritual growth. By embracing this notion of perfection, one may hinder their journey towards spiritual fulfillment. Instead, Vindemiatrix urges introspection and encourages humility as essential elements on the path to spiritual enlightenment. Vindemiatrix is the Widow Maker; if you are perfect as you falsely presume you are then you don’t need someone beside you.