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In this part of the course, we will start by examining the astrological planets as they relate to the system of subtle internal energies called the chakras—a branch of esoteric astrology. Also called occult or secret astrology, esoteric astrology is by definition somewhat difficult to study. It is occult not because it is some deep dark secret, and not because some person or group is trying to keep it from us, but because it is by its very nature, subtle and hard to grasp with the mind. It might be more helpful to say, as the Tibetans do, that it is self-secret; it hides itself from us. We can’t grasp it.

This knowledge is hidden in the one place we might never think to look and, that is: in plain sight. In other words, the secret heart of astrology (esoteric astrology) is hidden by the fact that it is so obvious and present to us that we have no way to grasp it or keep it in mind. Although it is with us and present all the time, our mind has trouble grasping or maintaining an awareness of it.