LEO (ARIEH) – SHIMON – AV – TOPAZ
Leo is one of the three negative months of the year. Leo is ruled by the sun, and is the Left Column of the fire signs.
HOW TO READ & UNDERSTAND YOUR CHART
The wisdom gained by reflecting on your astronomical chart will help you realise your inner potential, gain profound self-awareness, and receive invaluable guidance for effective communication.
Each of us is blessed with unique gifts and challenged by specific obstacles that are intricately tied to the astronomical sign under which we were born. These signs, rooted in the sacred teachings of Kabbalistic astronomy (mazalot), serve as spiritual compasses, illuminating the obstacles we must transcend and unveiling our sacred life purpose. The ultimate aim is to empower yourself to rise above the celestial influences and seize control over the direction of your life.
The Kabbalah teaches us that the course of history transpires as a result of the cyclical energy processes of the year rather than because of physical events. Therefore, by looking at the time at which each moment in history occurs, we can better understand why it happened.
AV (LEO) – THE MONTH OF LiGHT
Arieh (Leo) is one of the three most negative months of the year. The other two are Tevet (Capricorn), because it is ruled by Saturn, which is a planet of harsh judgments, and Tummuz (Cancer), because it is ruled by the moon.
The month of Av is connected to the astronomical sign of Leo and is the only month ruled by the Sun. Av means father and is symbolized by the lion, one of four holy entities along with the bull, eagle and mankind represented on the chariot in Ezekiel’s mystical vision of G-d. Kabbalists explain that all energy from the upper world’s come through these entities.
The Midrash on Lamentations (Eichah Rabbah 1:51) states that the future King of Israel (Messiah), a descendant of King David, will be born on Tisha B’Av, the day the Temple is destroyed, symbolizing the potential for redemption amidst the greatest despair. King David, the second king of Israel, is closely connected to the month of Av and the sign of Leo. David was born and died on the 9th of Av (Tisha B’Av). Leo, symbolized by a lion, represents royalty, strength, and leadership—qualities attributed to David, who is often called “the Lion of Judah.”
The month of Av is considered a month of mercy. The Holy Temple, symbolized by Arieh (the Lion), was destroyed because of the actions of the people of Israel, known as Ariel, by Nebuchadnezzar, also represented as the Lion.
The nine days of mourning is equal to 216 hours which is Arieh (216).
Those born during Av (Leo) are confident, charismatic, and natural leaders. They are generous, warm-hearted, and highly ambitious. Their vibrant creativity and enthusiasm drive them. Fiercely loyal and protective of loved ones, they can also be proud and stubborn, often resistant to change but dedicated to their goals.
They often possess a complex blend of introspection and resilience. Influenced by the sombre observance of Tisha B’Av, they embody the ability to transform sorrow into strength and renewal. Av-born individuals are known for their deep emotional intelligence and their capacity for empathy. They excel in understanding human dynamics and often contribute to their community through healing, advocacy, and fostering connections that promote understanding and reconciliation.
Personality Traits
People born in the month of Av are associated with the following personality traits:
Strength and Resilience: Av is a month that contains both mourning and consolation in Jewish tradition. Individuals born in Av often possess inner strength and resilience, able to endure hardships and overcome challenges with determination and grace.
Emotional Sensitivity: Av is a time of heightened emotional intensity, marked by mourning for historical tragedies. People born in Av tend to be emotionally sensitive and empathetic, deeply attuned to their own feelings and those of others.
Creativity and Expressiveness: Despite its sombre associations, Av is also a month of creativity and expression. Individuals born in Av often have a strong creative streak, finding catharsis and inspiration through artistic outlets such as writing, music, or visual arts.
Spiritual Reflection: Av is a time for spiritual reflection and introspection. Those born in this month may possess a strong spiritual inclination, seeking meaning and connection through their religious or philosophical beliefs.
Connection to History and Tradition: Av is a month rich in historical significance, including the destruction of the Temples in Jerusalem. People born in Av often have a deep appreciation for history and tradition, feeling a sense of connection to the past and a responsibility to honour it.
Resilience in Relationships: The challenges associated with Av can strengthen interpersonal bonds. Individuals born in Av may demonstrate resilience and loyalty in their relationships, standing by their loved ones through difficult times.
Sense of Justice and Compassion: Av is a time for reflection on moral and ethical principles. Those born in Av may possess a strong sense of justice and compassion, seeking to uphold truth and fairness in their interactions with others.
Community-Mindedness: Av is a month that emphasizes communal mourning and support. People born in Av often have a strong sense of community and may be actively involved in supporting and caring for others within their community.
Hope and Healing: Despite the challenges of Av, it is also a month of consolation and hope. Individuals born in Av may embody a spirit of optimism and resilience, finding strength and healing in the face of adversity.
These traits reflect a blend of emotional sensitivity, creativity, resilience, and spiritual depth, making individuals born in Av compassionate, resilient, and deeply introspective. Their ability to navigate challenges with grace and their commitment to personal growth contribute to their strength of character.
The Cosmic Energy of the Month
As Leo falls under the influence of the Sun, the center of our solar system and source of infinite light, it is easy to see why Leos believe the world revolves around them and why they need to be the center of attention.
Kabbalists further explain that Av or Leo is the fifth month in the Hebrew calendar and is one of three “negative” months, along with Tammuz (Cancer) and Tevet (Capricorn), where the energy of judgement is more intense.
Leo is ruled by the sun, and is the Left Column of the fire signs. This indicates an added influence of fire, which is expressed as judgments – burning and consuming fire with no balance. This is the reason we experience a polarity of events, some negative and some positive. The Book of Formation says the letter Tet created Leo and the letter Caf created the sun. Together we get the energetic combination that controls the month of Leo.
At the center of our solar system, the sun brings each of the planets light and heat, without which organic life could not exist.
People born in this month are infamous for behaving like the sun. Their trademarks are leadership, determination, domination and power, and in full force, this combination can lead to the pitfalls of ego and pride. Leos easily take on leadership positions. But we must remember, the only control we have is self-control. Any feelings of ego, pride and superiority only prevent us from helping others.
The month of Leo is known for the massive occurrences of negativity that have transpired throughout history during this time; the Destruction of both Holy Temples in Jerusalem took place on the ninth of Leo. The systematic massacre of the Jews by Hitler’s Nazi regime was also ordered during Leo.
Point of Reflection
The number nine, represented by the Hebrew letter Tet, connects us to the Sefirah Yesod, which manifests all of the energy that is gathered from all the upper luminous emanations. Jerusalem was and remains the energy center of the world. When the people of Israel, and the residents of Jerusalem specifically, chose not to behave with human dignity toward one another – this energy was created and accumulated in Yesod – it had to manifest itself, and did so in an explosion of negativity on the ninth day of Leo, in a deadly short circuit.
CONNECTiNG THE DOTS
The Jewish calendar’s association of each month with a zodiac sign and a tribe of Israel is deeply rooted in Jewish mysticism, tradition, and symbolism. This system reflects the interconnectedness of time, spirituality, and the cultural heritage of the Jewish people.
Kabbalah
According to the Kabbalah, each month is linked to one of the twelve zodiac signs, which have divine influence. Each zodiac sign symbolizes specific qualities and energies that are particularly potent during its corresponding month.
Tribes of Israel
Each of the twelve months is also associated with one of the twelve tribes of Israel, corresponding to the twelve sons of Jacob. These tribes represent different aspects of the Jewish collective soul and the divine attributes (Sefirot). Each tribe has unique characteristics and a particular spiritual mission, which aligns with the energy of the corresponding month.
This system blends astronomy, theology, and Jewish tradition to offer spiritual guidance and cultural continuity. It provides meaning and direction, reflecting the holistic nature of Jewish spirituality and its cosmic perspective.
MONTH OF AV
Fire Element
Planet The Sun
Greatness/Presence
Embarrassing
Seeing the Light
Center of Attention
Forgiveness/Judgement
Sharing/Giving
Unconditional Love
Leadership
TRiBE OF SHiMON
(Kingdon, Lowliness, Hearing)
Summer fruit harvest
Grape harvest
Fig harvest
Olive harvest
Fatherly consoling and love
This is the month that the future King of Israel (Lion) will be born.
Arieh (216 Numeric Value)
Prune to shape shrubs during this month or cultivate and till the soil. This is the best month to weed or control pests. Avoid planting anything.
AV – LEO (ARiEH)
A person born during Av is ruled by the heart. Fun loving cheerful and generous. Leos play to an audience and thrive on response. They are loyal and devoted friends ask only for a bit of attention in return.
Leos put their heart into relationships and activities, often forgetting that the heart is one of the biggest muscles in the human body.
Getting adequate exercise, keeping all of the muscles in the body in tone.
SEFER YETZiRAH
The Sefer Yetzirah, or “Book of Creation” is one of the earliest works of Jewish mysticism, particularly within the Kabbalistic tradition.
Ten Sefirot
The Sefer Yetzirah introduces the concept of the Ten Sefirot, which are fundamental to Kabbalistic cosmology. These Sefirot are seen as ten attributes or emanations through which G-d interacts with the world. They are often described as both numbers and divine attributes.
Twenty-Two Hebrew Letters
The Sefer Yetzirah explains the importance of the twenty-two letters of the Hebrew alphabet, which it divides into three categories: three “mother” letters (Aleph, Mem, Shin), seven “double” letters (Bet, Gimel, Dalet, Kaf, Peh, Resh, Tav), and twelve “simple” letters. These letters are seen as the building blocks of creation, used by God to form the universe.
According to the “Sepher Yetzirah“, the Hebrew letters are spiritual frequencies that G-d used to create the universe. A different Hebrew letter controls or influences the constellation and planet of the month. By connecting to these letters through meditation we can draw down specific energy to empower and enlighten us.
LETTERS OF THE MONTH – Kaf and Tet
Av is a month of both mourning and comfort. The letter Tet (ט) represents goodness hidden within, signifying the potential for transformation and rebuilding following destruction. The letters for the month of Av are Kaf and Tet.
Kaf
Kaf created the Sun and rules over the month of Av. The Sun represents Zeir Anpin, the masculine aspect of the universe and a link to the infinite light.
Tet
The letter Tet created the constellation of Leo and is shaped like a womb. It represents the nine months of pregnancy condensed into the 9-day period from Rosh Chodesh Av through the Tisha B’av. It is said that Moshiach, a human leader and positive spiritual energy that will rule humanity with kindness and justice during the Messianic period, will be born on the 9th of Av, another example of Light being born from darkness.
Days of Connection in Av
Av is a month of duality, containing both the most negative day of the year (Tisha B’av) and the happiest day (Tu B’av). By sharing, maintaining certainty through hard times and trying to feel the pain of others, we are able to convert the energy of judgement found in the first half of Av into light and blessings.
There are two distinct aspects of the Creator that can be characterized in several ways:
- Male and female.
- Zeir Anpin and Malchut.
- The Holy One and the Shekhinah.
- The Sun and Moon.
By joining the two energies on the 15th of the month, we connect to the full Sun and full Moon and move from the pain and negativity of the first 9 days and Tisha B’av to a day of happiness and love on the 15th of Av, Tu B’av.
Have a great month and Rosh Chodesh Av! Be proactive and share with others to help join the two aspects of the Creator to reveal Light in the world – our true purpose in life.
WHAT iS A RULiNG PLANET
In Jewish astronomy and Kabbalah, the ruling planets are significant influencers of the spiritual and physical characteristics of time periods and individuals.
These planets are not just astronomical bodies but also spiritual entities that convey divine energy. Their influence can shape the spiritual atmosphere of a month and the innate characteristics of individuals. The interplay between these planetary influences and other Kabbalistic concepts, such as the Sefirot, contributes to a holistic understanding of personality and destiny within the framework of Jewish mysticism.
RULiNG PLANET – The Chamah (Sun)
The Book of Formation says the letter Tet created Leo and the letter Caf created the sun. Together we get the energetic combination that controls the month of Leo. At the center of our solar system, the sun brings each of the planets light and heat, without which organic life could not exist.
Leo is ruled by the sun, and is the Left Column of the fire signs. This indicates an added influence of fire, which is expressed as judgments – burning and consuming fire with no balance. This is the reason we experience a polarity of events, some negative and some positive.
Planets Attributes
Vitality, leadership, creativity, and confidence. The Sun represents the self, ego, and personal identity, promoting a sense of individuality and leadership qualities.
Birth Qualities of the Chamah
The Sun (Hama in Hebrew) symbolizes light, spiritual illumination, masculine energy, life-giving warmth, authority, unity, and eternal renewal. It embodies qualities of clarity, wisdom, power, and the sustaining force behind all life on Earth.
THE 12 GEMSTONES OF THE EPHOD (BREASTPLATE)
In Jewish tradition, there are specific associations between gemstones and each of the twelve Hebrew months.
In the Torah (Exodus 28:15-21), there is a description of the Breastplate (Choshen) worn by the High Priest (Kohen Gadol), which contained twelve gemstones, each representing one of the twelve tribes of Israel. These stones are mentioned as part of the priestly garments and represent the different aspects of the tribes and their virtues.
BiRTH STONE – Topaz – Gold/Brown
Shimon’s stone was a Topaz – pit’da, a shiny green stone, the color of the pools of the ocean. The Topaz cools down the body from excessive heat. Therefore, this stone is found in Africa where it is very hot and the people are hot-blooded and need to be cooled down.
Topaz Qualities
Topaz strengthens; Creativity, confidence, communication, mental clarity, emotional healing, and spiritual growth.
- Topaz stimulates creativity and inspire new ideas
- Strengthens confidence and self-assurance
- Instils a sense of pride and self-worth
- Enhances communication skills
- promote mental clarity and enhance focus and concentration
- Promotes emotional healing and well-being
- Alleviates stress, anxiety, and emotional turmoil
- Helps with spiritual growth and enlightenment
THE MONTH OF AV
The month of Av is connected to the astronomical sign of Leo and is the only month ruled by the Sun. Av means father and is symbolized by the lion, one of four holy entities along with the bull, eagle and mankind represented on the chariot in Ezekiel’s mystical vision of G-d. Mystics explain that all energy from the upper world’s come through these entities. As Leo falls under the influence of the Sun, the center of our solar system and source of infinite light, it is easy to see why Leos believe the world revolves around them and why they need to be the center of attention. Kabbalists further explain that Av or Leo is the fifth month in the Hebrew calendar and is one of three “negative” months, along with Tammuz (Cancer) and Tevet (Capricorn), where the energy of judgement is more intense. The negative energy of Av is evidenced in part by “The 9 Days”, a window of time beginning on Rosh Chodesh Av and culminating on Tisha B’av – the 9th of Av. These 9 days fall within a larger Three-Week period of semi-mourning which commenced on the 17th of Tammuz. The 9th of Av, known as Tisha B’av, is considered to be the darkest day of the year for the Jewish people. The day is associated with several calamities throughout history including the sin of the spies, and the destruction of the 1st and 2nd Temples in Jerusalem.
The month of Av is then transformed into a constructive month showing us the opportunity to convert darkness into light. Following the 9th of Av, the most negative day of the year, we have Tu B’av on the 15th, considered to be one of the happiest days of the year. On Tu B’av, both the Sun and Moon are full, connecting Zeir Anpin, the masculine energy of the universe represented by the Sun, with Malchut, the female energy of the universe represented by the Moon. The joining of Zeir Anpin and Malchut on the 15th of Av with the full Sun and full Moon is one of the highest forms of connection. It is for this reason that Tu B’av is considered the “day of love” and a perfect time to find your soulmate. Further support for the duality of negative and positive aspects of the month can be found in the Hebrew word for Lion – Aryeh. Aryeh has a numerical value of 216 which has the same numerical value as Gevurah or judgement and is 3x Chesed or mercy which has the value of 72. In Kabbalah, the concept of gematria states that words with similar numerical values have an affinity and connection to each other. Accordingly, we can see both judgement and mercy together in Leo.
WEEK 1
Av is the best time for planting Broccoli, Cabbage, Onions, Turnips, Beetroot, Carrots, Cauliflower, Lettuce.
WEEK 2
A night of destruction, spies, falsities and calamity.
Plant Radishes, Beans, Okra (Bamya), Tomatoes, Eggplant and Pumpkin.
WEEK 3
The future, consolidation, revelation and merit. The extending of days.
Plant Squash (Summer), and Squash (Winter).
WEEK 4
The end of the year for planting.
SiGNiFiCANT EVENTS OF THE MONTH
The ninth day of Leo is a fasting day, not because the two Temples were destroyed, but because it is a day that lends itself to calamity. The culmination of negative energy created by a lack of unity and human dignity between people accumulates and manifests on the ninth of Leo. What is the solution? A change of consciousness and behaviour. It is very easy to point fingers and blame others, but it is harder to transform oneself and change one’s attitude, be patient, forgiving, and loving. If each of us could perceive ourselves as though we were ticking time bombs, and any self-serving action would trigger the fuse, we would be much more careful with our actions and words. Where there is the greatest darkness, therein also lies the biggest potential to reveal tremendous Light, but it all depends on our actions.
The negative energy of Av is evidenced in part by “The 9 Days”, a window of time beginning on Rosh Chodesh Av and culminating on Tisha B’av – the 9th of Av. These 9 days fall within a larger Three-Week period of semi-mourning which commenced on the 17th of Tammuz. The 9th of Av, known as Tisha B’av, is considered to be the darkest day of the year for the Jewish people. The day is associated with several calamities throughout history including the sin of the spies, and the destruction of the 1st and 2nd Temples in Jerusalem.
To lessen the judgement of this month we also have two very positive events:
THE FIFTH DAY OF AV – the death anniversary of Rav Isaac Luria (the Ari). He chose to leave the world on the fifth day – which represents the luminous emanation of Hod – in order to transform daveh (poor and weak).The death of the Ari, which does not represent a physical death, provides us with an opening for Light that we can connect to by studying his writings on that night.
FIFTEENTH DAY OF AV – the happiest day of the year. On this day, both the sun and the moon are full. The sun – Zeir Anpin, the positive pole – represents the male aspect of our universe. The moon – Malchut, the negative pole – represents the female aspect of the universe. When the moon reflects the light of the sun, we receive this power to return Light, the strength to give, to care, and to love unconditionally. This is why our sages stated that there is no happier day in the year, and this rare cosmic opportunity allows us to find our soulmate. The same way the sun and the moon are in harmony on this day, so too can we draw this partnership to our lives.
THE 12 SPiES
Moses sent twelve spies to scout the land of Canaan. Upon their return, ten of the spies delivered a negative report, instilling fear and doubt among the Israelites about conquering the land.
God decreed that the Israelites would wander in the wilderness for forty years, until the entire generation that left Egypt had died out.
THE 9th OF AV
The Destruction of the First Temple: The destruction of the First Temple in Jerusalem by the Babylonians in 586 BCE.
The Destruction of the Second Temple: Destroyed by the Romans in 70 CE.
Expulsion of Jews from England: In 1290.
Expulsion of Jews from Spain: Similarly, on the 9th of Av in 1492.
KORACH REBELS
Korach was a member of the tribe of Levi who, along with Dathan, Abiram, and a group of followers, rebelled against the leadership of Moses and Aaron. They challenged Moses’ authority, claiming that all the people of Israel were holy and questioning why Moses and Aaron should have special leadership roles.
NEW YEAR SACRAFiCES
The offering brought by the Israelites during the celebration of Passover in the first year after the Exodus from Egypt. The offering brought by the Israelites during the celebration of Passover in the first year after the Exodus from Egypt.
INTERACTiNG WiTH A LEO
Understanding these traits and tailoring your interactions accordingly can help foster positive relationships with individuals of each mazal.
ASSETS OF Arieh (LEO)
Generous, paternal, honest, natural leader, charismatic, good conversationalist, socially adept, inner strength, self-worth, creative, independent, handles stress and responsibility well, physical strength, attractive, goal-oriented.
MAiN MOTiVATiON
Prideful – Ask the Light for help to control the ego, work on being a stronger vessel for the Light, not for selfish desires
CONTROL FREAK
Use strengths to help others, not dominate them.
Needs to be the center of attention.
Understand you are not the center of the universe – only the Light knows best. The Light is everywhere, all the time, so it’s important to listen to others.
LACKS MOTiVATiON
Ask for help to understand the pain and needs of others. Go beyond your own desires.
SELF CENTERED
Be more empathetic, try to understand others’ perspective.
Susceptible to flattery – Understand that talents are given by the Light to be used for the Light. They are not earned or deserved.
Generous, as long as they are recognized as the giver – Give in order to help others in their spiritual path, not in order to satisfy your own ego.
LACKS DiPLOMACY
Think before speaking. Be sensitive to other people’s feelings.
Sees the whole picture but overlooks the details – Slow down and take the time to see the details
THiNK THEY KNOW BEST
Leos see themselves as leaders and as someone who knows best and also loves the show and drama. If we challenge their leadership they will immediately put us in our place.
Their leadership can be hot and burning to their surroundings, in case of a dictatorship style of leadership. On that note, since their pride is their sensitive point, they are easy to calm by flattery and compliments.
AREAS OF IMPROVEMENT
- Control the ego
- Try not to dominate others
- Ask for help to understand the pain and needs of others
- Go beyond your desires and help others
- Be sensitive to other peoples feelings
- Slow down and take the time to see the details
GETTiNG ALONG WiTH AN LEO
- Show respect and trust
- Listen – don’t contradict
- Give feedback, help the Leo see the impact his words and actions have on others
- Don’t be judgmental
Fire Element
Assertion, Drive, Willpower
Air Element
Communication, Socialization, Conceptualization
Earth Element
Communication, Socialization, Conceptualization
Water Element
Emotion, Empathy, Sensitivity