Good Heavens!
By Sylvia Lief
Of the limited choice of successors to the leadership vacuum created by the assassination of prime minister Yitzhak Rabin, Ariel Sharon stands out as the leader whose astrological chart is most compatible with that of the State of Israel.
Given a better planetary combination in Israel's horoscope, he could by now have presented considerable changes for the population to enjoy.
Unfortunately, it is not so much the leaders who create the situation but the stars.

"PM Ariel Sharon stands out as the leader whose astrological chart is most compatible with that of the State of Israel."
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However, it is in the hands of the leaders, like cooks, to make the best of any ingredients at their disposal. Considering what they have had to work with, current affairs could have been far worse.
A comparison between Israel's chart and some leading government members shows that a majority of them and Defense Minister Benjamin Ben Eliezer (Fuad) in particular, are astrologically beneficial to the country and their successes or failures depend mostly on the correct timing of events rather than on capability.
STATE OF ISRAEL THE PAST YEAR:
The most critical moments indicated in Israel's astrological chart were between September 2000-2001. War between Israel and the Palestinian Autonomy was imminent when in April 2001 astrological aspects were formed between planets Mars, Saturn and Pluto, bringing hostilities to a heightened pitch.
These aspects are now dispersing and although an all out war is now unlikely to occur, this country still has to wait until March 2003, when Saturn finally completes its transit of the 1st house in Israel's horoscope. Until then, she will continue to be confronted by her past and present mistakes and her leaders in the government, the army and police force, compelled to reconsider methods of dealing with problems.
Among the many things ruled by Saturn and it's numerological equivalent, the number 4, are, on the negative side, isolation, hardship, dryness, restriction, limitation, structural collapse and a decrease of the population. On the positive side Saturn indicates regeneration and rebuilding, once the necessary lessons have been learned.
FUTURE PREDICTIONS:
September-October 2001 are the point at which Saturn's negative influence starts easing up, leading to a significant improvement as from May 2002. Due to Mercury's entrance on the scene, a 'rehabilitation' process will begin to gather momentum, despite the rough, uphill Saturnine path.
Planet Mercury, whose numerical equivalent is 5, will affect every aspect of life in Israel, giving her leaders some sort of leeway to maneuver the country out of her present predicament. Mercury's rulership over change and all forms of communication, will mean transformation in a variety of spheres. Authorized ideas and plans which were delayed or abandoned due to Saturn's interception, will be reintroduced and implemented.
Israel's leaders will find the appropriate words to convey her position to the world, largely through the international media, which by then will tend to be less biased. New ways will be sought by her, to establish and generate mutual goodwill and to draw up a peace plan acceptable to both sides.
World opinion will be more sympathetic towards Israel.The growing criticism and lack of solidarity that Israel has been subjected to will continue for a short period and then there will be a turn of events. Those countries that abandoned her will revise their attitudes. She will be less isolated and a gradual renewal of diplomatic exchange is indicated.
Yasser Arafat's power is on the decline and he will not be our ultimate negotiating partner. A younger forum, which has not yet made it's mark, perhaps a new movement, will express it's desire to pave the way to a new type of coexistence, possibly based on financial cooperation. Social workers on both sides of the fence will be involved.
TREASURY & UNEMPLOYMENT
Unemployment and austerity, another of Saturn's trademarks, will succumb to the innovative energy of Mercury. Nevertheless, the real pay off to the treasury's struggles to establish a sounder financial structure won't come this year. Only from 2003 will there be considerable strides forward in the right direction and a new and better phase begin to manifest.
TOURISM
Attempts to encourage tourism will bring about a renewed influx of tourists to the region. With the emphasis on communications, there is bound to be some new invention or achievement connected with computers, telephones, transport and the media. Strikes are also strongly indicated in these arenas.
MEDICINE - Medical research teams will reveal some new techniques to treat throat chest and lung diseases. In the Cardiology and Pediatric departments there will be more breakthroughs this year and Geriatrics will receive special attention with some original ideas suggested.
EDUCATION - Education Minister Limor Livnat will be putting additional focus on reorganizing the educational system. Most schools and universities will undergo radical changes. A new realization of the importance and vulnerability of the country's youth will lead to increased concern for their security, safety in schools on the road and at home.
WATER SHORTAGE - Some positive remedial steps will be carried out to counteract the water shortage. However, the water issue will continue to arouse concern. The situation will be slightly less severe in the approaching winter months, but only in the winter season of 2003 will there be a noticeable improvement.
ROAD SAFETY - The Mercury cycle will also place transport issues on top of the list of priorities. Debates in a variety of forums, will lead to the application of drastic measures, to curtail traffic offences and lower the accident rate.
INFLUENCE OF PLANET JUPITER IN YOUR LIVES THIS YEAR -Jupiter's transit in the astrological sign of Cancer until August 2002 has a different meaning for each individual according your personal birth sign. Here's a spot of advice on how to use this positive influence most effectively.
Aries: 21st March - 21st April
Some recent experiences (or future ones,) may have inspired a radical change of outlook helping you to better understand yourself, your qualities and your preferences.
This year it is advisable to make long term decisions regarding where you'd like to be stationed for the next few years.
Taurus: 21st April - 22nd May
It should become easier for you to find the right answers and solve problems connected with capital and any documents that need to be dealt with. This year is the time to settle matters concerning your home, car and any dealings with neighbors. Any misunderstandings with siblings or in-laws can be resolved and your relationship with them enhanced.
Gemini: 22nd May - 22nd June
Your financial affairs and working life can be greatly improved this year if necessary. Seek any opportunity to forge forward and don't hesitate to apply any bright ideas
You may have to increase your income and popularity at work. With Saturn in your first house, guard against overwork and allergies.
Cancer: 22nd June - 23rd July
Jupiter transiting your birth sign engulfs you with lots of good fortune. It enables you to
cope with and overcome any problems that may have burdened you lately.
It induces optimism and in turn helps you draw to yourself the good things mainly through a positive attitude. Watch out for a tendency to put on weight this year!
Leo: 23rd July- 23rd Aug
It's a year to clear up any psychological ticks that have been hampering your progress.
This placing serves to safeguard you against pending dangers. It's useful, to keep you out of trouble, but shouldn't be taken for granted. Any connection with behind the scenes environments or closed institutions such as hospitals etc. will be beneficial.
Virgo: 23rd Aug - 23rd September
Friends can be of great assistance this year so take advantage of any offers extended to help you on your way. This year, if you get into a squeeze, the first thing to consider is sharing your thoughts and needs with another person. Your circle of friends should be expanding.
Libra: 23rd Sept- 23rd Oct
Whatever your station in life, your image has been taking a turn for the better and this year is the time to plan any rise in status whether social professional or personal.
This can mean marriage or parenthood for some, or a promotion. There is no place for indecision and delays.
Scorpio: 23rd Oct - 23rd Nov
Your financial affairs can take a turn for the better if you play your cards right. All matters concerning study will work out to your advantage. So don't get upset if at first things go wrong .
Your luck is now connected with distance and in order to achieve the best results you yourself may need to go far afield; out of town/country or to stay in touch with people who are at a distance.
Sagittarius: 23rd Nov - 23rd Dec
You'd be wise to concentrate on ways to increase your assets. If you are entitled to compensation, or need a loan, study grant, or just more cooperation from the bank until you settle your overdraft, you'll probably get them.
There will be a sympathetic attitude towards your needs.
Capricorn: 23rd Dec - 23rd Jan
Be on the lookout for a chance to cooperate with others, professionally or socially, This can be a solution to any obstacles that may stand in your path. Since partnerships work in your favor this year, you can meet and marry, improve relations with a spouse, or finally separate from an undesirable relationship in order to make a fresh start.
Aquarius: 21st Jan - 19th Feb
Health matters come to the fore. If there has been any cause for concern, this can easily be alleviated providing steps are taken to do so. Guard against an excessive intake of sugary foods, anxiety and overeating. There's a tendency to gain weight this year without much effort.Your home environment becomes more pleasurable and long awaited renovations finally take place.
Pisces: 19th Feb - 21st March
Develop an increased interest in creativity and all things connected with the younger generation. These can be the source of good tidings.
This year, time spent in the company of young people on a personal or professional basis and in fun environments ( clubs, sports) will be beneficial.