Türkiye's modern political development has been marked by a transition from Ottoman rule to a secular republic under Mustafa Kemal Atatürk's leadership in the 1920s. The country adopted a Western-oriented, secular constitution, embracing democratic principles. However, it faces significant challenges due to its unique geographic and cultural position, straddling both the Muslim world and the West. Key challenges include maintaining a balance between secularism and religious influences, managing its independence-striving Kurdish minority issue, navigating regional conflicts, and preserving democratic institutions in a politically polarized environment. Striking this balance remains essential for Turkey to fulfill its potential as a bridge between East and West.
As for its Western aspirations, it is a NATO member and an applicant for membership in the EU. Simultaneously, it is engaged in the affairs of the tumultuous Middle East, necessitating a delicate balance between its Western commitments and emerging Middle Eastern engagements.
A History That Stretches Into The Hoary Past
Over time, Türkiye has been shaped by a diverse array of cultures, religions, and political forces. It has existed under many names. Anatolia is one of the oldest names for the region, deriving from the Greek word "Anatole," meaning "east" or "sunrise." It has been used for millennia to refer to the Asian part of modern-day Türkiye. It was known in Greek and Roman times as Asia Minor. The name, also of Greek origin, was commonly used by ancient Greeks and Romans to describe the western part of Anatolia. It was also known as the Byzantine Empire during the Roman Empire. However, upon its division, the eastern half became the Byzantine Empire, with its capital in Byzantium, later known as Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul). It was also referred to as the Eastern Roman Empire due to its continuity with the Roman Empire. Following the conquest by the Ottoman Turks, who migrated to Anatolia in the 13th century, they established one of history's most powerful empires, the Ottoman Empire, encompassing Anatolia, Southeastern Europe, and the Middle East. Following the collapse of the Ottoman Empire after World War I, the region was briefly known as the Asia Minor Republic before the establishment of the modern entity, the Republic of Turkey. In 1923, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk founded the new entity, adopting the name the Republic of Turkey to emphasize the nation's new beginning, distinct from its imperial and Ottoman past. In 2022, the spelling of the name was changed from Turkey to Türkiye.The amazing discovery of Göbekli Tepe is reshaping views of Anatolia in a profound way. This archaeological site, located in southeastern Türkiye, challenges conventional beliefs about the region's history. Built around 9600 BCE, it predates Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids, making it one of the world's oldest known religious structures. The discovery has forced scholars to reconsider the capabilities of ancient societies, as it suggests a level of social organization and architectural sophistication previously underestimated. Additionally, it implies that complex religious and symbolic rituals existed much earlier than previously thought
Horoscope for the New Nation
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| Turkey's Lausanne Conference delegation |
This time precedes the founding of the secular republic, which happened on October 29 of that same year. Its importance lies in the act of constituting a new nation. The republican form of government, as embodied in a new constitution, is different. According to the late V. K. Choudhry, the preceptor of Systems' Approach astrologers, a new constitution is not as important as the founding of a nation, in terms of giving birth to the collective entity.
This treaty had momentous implications, as it officially ended the state of war between the Allied Powers and the Ottoman Empire, which had been ongoing since World War I. The treaty then redefined the borders of modern-day Turkey and established the boundaries of several neighboring countries. It also recognized the sovereignty of the new Republic of Turkey, led by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, and marked the end of the Ottoman Empire.
Jayant Kalawar chose the time 11:30 a.m. giving 18° Virgo rising. However, further work relocating the event to the pre-capital city of Ankara, which is 2 hours ahead, resulted in adjusting the time to 11:15 a.m. there, to yield 25° Virgo rising. The range of possible ascending degrees is likely bookended by these degrees. Further observation is needed to clarify the exact degree. The 25° Virgo rising degree is easier, however, as it moves the nodes out of the MEP in malefic houses, which otherwise brings more serious problems under nodal period and transit duress.
The 25° Virgo rising chart suggests the final agreement on the Treaty was reached at 9:15 a.m. in Lausanne. There are reports that the chief representative of Türkiye in Lausanne, Ismet İnönü (center of front row in photo), telephoned Mustafa Kemal Atatürk in Ankara that morning to inform him of the signal event. In any event, a late Virgo rising chart has shown promise in prediction since.
Republic of Türkiye
11:15 a.m. on July 24th 1923
Ankara, Türkiye
11:15 a.m. on July 24th 1923
Ankara, Türkiye
25° Virgo rising
"1. The proposed chart with Virgo Ascendant is currently in Saturn / Saturn period. 6th lord Saturn is in the Ascendant. Its general signification is of leadership by the non-elite is borne out by the result, while at the same time the 6th lord signification of disharmony in body politic (due to its placement in Ascendant).
2. Further, current transit Saturn is currently under:
- affliction by the 8th aspect of transit most malefic planet (MMP) Mars
and
- influence of 5th aspect of transit Rahu.
This indicates obstructions and confusions to the non-elite leadership represented by Saturn."
Authoritarian leader and weak currency
Recep Tayyip Erdoğan is the President of Turkey since 2014. He is considered as something of an authoritarian ruler, by repressing his political opponents. As such, he also enjoys a strong position to push eclectic economic policies, such as keeping interest rates low for too long. Clearly, Erdogan was trying to engineer faster growth before the election in 2023, but reaped a rapid depreciation of the lira and horrendous inflation.
Fact: In the past 10 years, the Turkish lira has fallen from 0.5 lira to the dollar to 0.03 lira. In other words, in 2013 it took two lira to buy one US dollar. In 2023, the price has gone up to 33 lira!
In Systems' Approach astrology, the Sun and Moon become general indicators for currency strength. The Sun, in particular, signifies the power of the state and the leader. For Virgo ascending countries, 2nd lord Venus and 11th lord Moon are also important.
Deadly 2023 Turkey–Syria earthquake
"On 6 February 2023, at 04:17 TRT (01:17 UTC), a Mw 7.8 earthquake struck southern and central Turkey and northern and western Syria. The epicenter was 37 km west–northwest of Gaziantep. The earthquake had a maximum Mercalli intensity of XII (Extreme) around the epicenter and in Antakya. It was followed by a Mw 7.7 earthquake at 13:24. This earthquake was centered 95 km (59 mi) north-northeast from the first." There was widespread damage and almost sixty thousand people perished with twice that many injured."
There are numerous connections in the 25° Virgo rising chart for Turkey suggestive of this. First is the affliction of Ketu in the 6th house to 4th lord Jupiter in the 2nd house. Second, there is an affliction involving the 8th lord Mars to both 1st lord Mercury in the 11th house and 4th lord Jupiter in the 2nd house. So, both these conditions are satisfied in this chart.
The Saturn - Mercury period was operating at the time. Transit Ketu was conjunct 4th lord Jupiter in the 2nd house. Transit 2nd lord Venus was conjunct natal Ketu in the 6th house. Transit 8th lord Mars was in the 9th house from where it aspected natal Rahu in the 12th house and natal 11th lord Moon was in the 3rd house. Transit 12th lord Sun was afflicting the 5th, 11th house MEPs, as well as transit 11th lord Moon. Finally, transit 4th lord Jupiter was in the 7th house in aspect to natal 8th lord Mars in the 11th house. In short, the bases were loaded.
2016 Turkish coup d'état attempt
Another important event happened on July 15th, 2016, when a faction within the Turkish Armed Forces, organized as the Peace at Home Council, attempted a coup d'état against state institutions, including the government and president Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. They attempted to seize control of several places in Ankara, Istanbul, Marmaris and elsewhere, such as the Asian side entrance of the Bosphorus Bridge, but failed to do so after forces loyal to the state defeated them. The Council cited an erosion of secularism, elimination of democratic rule,[ disregard for human rights, and Turkey's loss of credibility in the international arena as reasons for the coup. The government said the coup leaders were linked to the Gülen movement, which is designated as a terrorist organization by the Republic of Turkey and led by Fethullah Gülen, a Turkish businessman and scholar who lives in Pennsylvania. The Turkish government alleged that Gülen was behind the coup (which Gülen denied) and that the United States was harboring him. Events surrounding the coup attempt and the purges in its aftermath reflect a complex power struggle between Islamist elites in Turkey.
The Jupiter - Rahu period was operating. Rahu is an indicator of manipulation and deceit. Moreover, transit Rahu was conjunct natal Rahu in the 12th house -- the Rahu transit-to-natal return - one of the most painful aspects. Transit 6th lord Saturn was in the 3rd house in aspect to natal and transit Rahu in the 12th house. Tr 1st lord Mercury and transit 2nd lord Venus were conjunct 12th lord Sun in the 11th house. Transit 12th lord Sun was in old age in the 10th house. Finally, transit 6th lord Saturn was in the MEP of the 1st house, in aspect to natal 2nd lord Venus in the 10th house MEP.
Challenging period and transit combination ahead
In the late Spring or early Summer of 2024, the dual malefic period of Saturn - Ketu will be operating. This is difficult as Ketu afflicts Jupiter in the chart, suggesting setbacks for the borders or status of the country. This period is made more difficult as a number of malefic transit-to-natsl aspects are seen at that time that will be challenging for the country:
- A transit nodal station will form over natal 6th lord Saturn in the 1st house MEP, with transit Ketu conjunct, suggesting conflict involving sudden, serious and explosive developments, that adversely impact the image of the country.
- Transit 6th lord Saturn will become conjunct natal Ketu in the 6th house. This has much the same result, but is more focused on areas of conflict.
With triple such influences at work (including the period combination), a sudden explosive event associated with conflict should be regarded as very likely if this chart is indeed authentic.
Moreover, as 6th lord Saturn is involved, financial stability and health matters also become important. Meanwhile, Ketu's manifold aspects suggest a separative or isolating influence is involved. This time early next year offers a good predictive test of the authenticity of this chart.
Finally, around April 4th, the Sun, as 12th lord, and general indicator of the leader of the nation, will be in the 7th house, ruling foreign affairs, where it becomes conjunct transit stationary Rahu and opposite natal 6th lord Saturn. A few days later, transit 8th lord Mars will become conjunct Ketu and transit 6th lord Saturn in the 6th house. It is quite possible, in addition to the problems mentioned above, that there may also be change of government at that time.
Happy Centennial Birthday, Türkiye!!
The Turkish people have made invaluable contributions to the world throughout history, leaving an indelible mark on various fields. Their rich culture, blending Eastern and Western influences, has given birth to exquisite art, captivating music, and delicious cuisine. In science, the groundbreaking work of Turkish scholars has advanced our understanding of medicine, mathematics, and astronomy. The Turkish spirit of hospitality and unity shines through their ability to bridge cultures and build lasting friendships. As a nation at the crossroads of continents, they have historically facilitated trade, dialogue, and cooperation. The Turkish people's enduring legacy is a testament to the power of cultural diversity, innovation, and the strength of the human spirit.
This year is the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Republic of Türkiye and there is reason to be hopeful for this very special and important nation going forward. It's continued success is important for Europe, the Middle East and the world.
