Mercury, the planet of thought and commerce, comes close to the Sun between December 6th and January 23rd, where it moves from Scorpio through Sagittarius, on to Capricorn and is ‘combust’ or burnt up in the solar rays.

This phase affects your decision-making and state of mind, as you may be overwhelmed by too much information or a large personality who has undue influence. Combustion is rather like Mercury being eclipsed by the Sun and brings the same sense of unease and highly subjective thinking. The Sun and Mercury also make Budhaditya Yoga, promising commercial skills and academic success, where you can study and research effectively.

Mercury in Scorpio initially gives you intense mental focus, and you confront an underlying issue or atmosphere you would otherwise overlook, though entering Sagittarius by December 22nd gives your thought process greater complexity. The Sun and Mercury are both impacted by inspiring, protective Jupiter at this point, where the opportunity to study and travel may arise, or a guru figure is on hand to guide your explorations. Broaden your scope and embrace a new outlook if possible, as this is a moment to think positively and have a good, constructive point of view.

You combine Mercury’s eye for detail with an appreciation of the bigger picture and have the promise to become an inspiring teacher in your own right. This transit reaches a peak in Sagittarius over the New Year period from December 27th, 2026, to January 6th, 2027, when it’s helpful to get an outside point of view or even consult a professional counselor or negotiator. Any worthwhile agreement has a life-enhancing and possibly international flavor, where you may take on a teaching or advisory role.