The Spiritual Meaning Of April's Rare Hybrid Solar Eclipse

On April 20, we’re going to experience a hybrid solar eclipse. This is a rare lunar event that’s a mix of an annular solar eclipse, where the sun looks like a ring of fire, and a total eclipse where the sun is completely blacked out by the moon, says astrologer Jill Loftis.

The lunar happening is so rare that the last hybrid solar eclipse occurred in November 2013 and the next won’t be here until November 2031. Astrologically speaking, this eclipse has a lot going on, says astrologer Sonia Geary, so it’s an extra spiritual moment for the zodiac.

Depending on where you are in the world, you’ll witness a different phase of the eclipse, astrologer Matthias Dettmann tells Bustle. But the lunation’s energy will impact everyone.

According to Loftis, the sun represents light, heat, and vitality while the moon represents emotions, feelings, and intuition. Since these two strong energies merge during the eclipse, it’s thought to represent a time of dramatic change — both within the world and yourself.

Since solar eclipses are new moons, they have the energy of new beginnings. And yet, with an eclipse, there’s also an acceleration of endings, Loftis explains.

This eclipse will be the second new moon in Aries in a four-week time period, Loftis says, and will bring a lot of the sign’s fire energy to the week — which is why it might feel tumultuous for some.

All eclipses bring about a range of emotions, but this one is extra intense. “Some may feel a sense of excitement and possibility, while others may feel anxious or overwhelmed,” says Dettmann. “The eclipse may also bring about changes in relationships, career, or personal beliefs.”

Loftis recommends making space during this solar eclipse to stay grounded, instead of trying to set intentions. “You can’t control this energy,” she says. “Think of what happens as being related to the seeds you have planted in the past.”

That said, you could take time for silence and meditation to more easily see the next steps you can take in life, especially if you feel a change. “Remember that whatever is removed or eliminated is just making space for you to grow,” Loftis says. “Endings are just beginnings.”

Changes just don’t happen during the eclipse, but in the days that follow. “Don’t walk away on Friday or Saturday thinking that nothing has happened,” Loftis says. “Carefully observe the symbols in your own life, and the collective as well.”

If you’re looking to lean into the spirituality of the eclipse, try to approach this time with an open mind and a willingness to embrace change and growth, Dettmann says. Connecting with nature and loved ones can also be beneficial.