Via Combusta

Definition

Via Combusta, in classical tradition, is the zodiac's "burned path" — the 30° zone between 15° Libra and 15° Scorpio. The Moon is considered especially weakened in this area (the start of Scorpio = Moon in fall). Classical horary astrology reads "when the Moon is in Via Combusta, the question doesn't give reliable answer." Hellenistic in origin; modern psychological astrology had forgotten it, returned with the classical revival. Some traditions narrow the zone to the orb around the fixed star Spica (~23° Libra) — Spica is generally a fortunate star, but the influence of destructive stars like Algorab also falls in this zone. Moon in Via Combusta in a natal chart carries themes of emotional sensitivity and decisional difficulty.

In practice

For horary: when a question is asked, if the Moon is between 15° Libra and 15° Scorpio the answer isn't reliable — wait. For natal: planets in this zone run sensitive; especially the Moon carries emotional intensity and indecision.

Themes

• sensitive zone
• burned path
• lunar weakening area
• horary taboo