Introduction to Chiron, The Wounded Healer
Today and the beginning of this coming week I’ll be posting on Chiron. Chiron is transiting out of Pisces (Feb. 8, 2011 to April 18, 2018) and into Aries (April 18, 2018 to April 14, 2027), bringing a shift in consciousness relating to inner wounds and healing. Here, I will look at Chiron’s mythology, astronomical definition, and brief astrological meaning.
In Greek mythology, Chiron was a Centaur and the son of the Titan Cronus (Saturn) and rejected at birth by his mother (a nymph named Philyra) at birth due to being raped by Cronus (the initial wounding). He was adopted and raised by the god Apollo (god of music, prophecy, poetry, and healing). Centaurs were portrayed as wild and lawless half-horse, half-human figures. Chiron, however, was drastically different in that he did not succumb to his savage nature and was very wise, particularly in teaching, medicine, and healing. Chiron became injured accidentally by one of Hercules (his friend) poisoned arrows (the second wounding) during a skirmish with a tribe of rowdy centaurs. Since Chiron was immortal, he could not die but the injury caused continuous unbearable pain. And though being a gifted healer, his healing powers would only work on others, not himself. Eventually, Chiron gave up his immortality to free Prometheus and Zeus then placed him amongst the stars as the constellation Sagittarius (or Centaurus).
Chiron in astronomy, was discovered on Nov. 1, 1977 and originally classified as an asteroid, about 125 miles (200 km) in diameter and travels in an unstable, unconventional orbit that crosses Saturn and passes just inside Uranus around every 50 ½ years. It now is believed to have the composition of a comet nucleus (a mixture of water ice, other frozen gases, and silicate dust) and is officially classified as comet.
Astrologically, Chiron is referred to as The Wounded Healer and representing one who has great healing powers but can not heal their own wounds. Interestingly, Chiron’s glyph looks like a key, which can be looked as another path to unlock towards Soul exploration and purpose.
In our natal chart, it illustrates core wounds we never overcome during this particular lifetime, but that we need to recognize, honor, and then utilize to heal and teach others. Sounds incredibly depressing, however our deepest wounds can become our biggest contributions to the human consciousness.
It is also worth noting the orbital connection Chiron has between Saturn and Uranus also translates in astrology with Chiron being the teacher (Saturnian trait) and enlightened self awareness (Uranus’ realm). And looking back on the mythology of Chiron, his first wound was created by his father (Saturn) and the second from accidentally being shot by a poisoned arrow (Uranus rules accidents).
Next post will dive into the current transit of Chiron moving into Aries and some generational traits of those born during his last time in Aries (1968-1977).
