Planetary Transits for May 2008
(All times are GMT, London, and U.K.)
All month: Jupiter in Sagittarius (Dhanus) direct and retrograde, Mercury in Taurus direct and retrograde, Mars in Cancer (Karka) debilitated, Saturn in Leo (Simha) direct and retrograde, Rahu in Capricorn (Markar) & Ketu in Cancer (Karka) (True & mean). Krittika is the monthly celebrations for Kartikeyan.
May 2008 Panchanga
2nd 23:23 Pradosh***
3rd 03:04 Saturn becomes direct in Leo
4th 17:02 Amavasya Tithi begins**.
5th 13:19 New Moon in 21º 24', in Aries, Bharani nakshatra. (Moon joins Sun at 21º 23' at almost exact point creating a yudh avastha)
Krittika, special day for Mars*.
6th 18:33 Moon enters Rohini and becomes exalted on 6th May at 18:33 and stays exalted until 7th May until 15:38.
7th Akshaya Tritiya where the Sun and Moon are exalted at the same time. (More on this special transit above.)
9th 12:33 Jupiter becomes retrograde in Sagittarius in Uttara Ashadha Nakshatra.
10th Krittika, special day for Mars* (from 20:18 on 9th May).
12th 10:54 Moon in exact conjunction with Ketu at 29º 21' in Ashlesha Nakshatra. 14th 10:54 Sun enters Taurus and joins Mercury.
16th 20:40 Pradosh***
17th 22:40 Poornima Tithi begins
19th 00:52 Full Moon in 22º 25' Libra, Vishaka nakshatra.
20th 16:45 Mercury becomes retrograde at 27º 33', Taurus Mrigashirsha nakshatra.
26th 02:15 Venus enters Taurus.
27th 00:34 Moon in exact conjunction with Rahu at 28º 34', in Dhanistha Nakshatra.
Akshaya Tritiya on 7th May 2008
The word "Akshaya" means imperishable or eternal - that which never diminishes. Initiations made or valuables bought on this day are considered to bring success or good fortune. Buying gold is a popular activity on Akshaya Tritiya, as it is the ultimate symbol of wealth and prosperity. Gold and gold jewelry bought and worn on this day signify never diminishing good fortune. Indians celebrate weddings, begin new business ventures, and even plan long journeys on this day.
Akshaya Tritiya is a holy day and is also known as "Akha Teej", is traditionally the birthday of Lord Parasurama, the sixth incarnation of Lord Vishnu. People conduct special Pujas on this day, bathe in holy rivers, give charitable donations, offer barley in a sacred fires, and worship Lord Ganesha & Devi Lakshmi on this day.
Hindus believe in the theory of "mahurats" or auspicious timings in every step in life - be it to begin a new venture or making an important purchase. Akshaya Tritiya is one such momentous occasion, which is considered one of the most auspicious days of the Vedic Calendar. It is believed, any meaningful activity started on this day would be fruitful. Akshaya Tritiya falls on the third day of the bright half of Vaishakh month (April-May), when the Sun and Moon are in exaltation; they are simultaneously at their peak of brightness, which happens only once every year.
The day also marks the beginning of the "SatyaYug" or the Golden Age - the first of the four Yugas. In the "Puranas", the holy Hindu scriptures, there is a story that says that on this day of Akshay Tritiya Vedavyas along with Lord Ganesha started writing the great epic Mahabharata. Ganga Devi or Mother Ganges also descended to earth on this day. It is also believed that people born during this time shine bright in life. Many luminaries were born during this period: Basaveshwara born on May 4, Ramanujacharya and Adi Shankaracharya on May 6, Swami Chinmayananda on May 8 and Lord Buddha on May 16.
Thursday, May 1, 2008
Friday, April 18, 2008
Magic Cosmic Time
This is a magic time! The cosmos aligns itself into special configurations over the next couple of days, freeing you to accomplish almost anything you desire -- all while working in harmony with the universe!
On April 17, communicative Mercury enters practical and down-to-earth Taurus, forming a Grand Trine on April 18 with Pluto and Saturn.
Then, expressive Sun follows Mercury into Taurus, on April 19, immediately enhancing the beneficial grand trine on April 20 and 21, with hard-working Saturn in Virgo and intense Pluto in achievement-oriented Capricorn.
A grand trine occurs when you have three celestial bodies that are all separated by a span of 120-degrees. Trines favor focus on high ideals, insight, vision, creative expression and well-being. Grand trines specifically promote self-confidence, self-assurance, optimism, expectation, a sense of pleasure, an easy flow of energy, inspiration, expansion of creativity and a sense of inner hope and faith.
Because this trine is happening in earth signs, expect people with valuable advice and experience to come out of the woodwork. These people will help you accomplish your aims -- whether you want to pitch your latest creative project, start a business or set up a savings plan for retirement. You can do more now to make your life secure and stable than you have for a long time.
On April 17, communicative Mercury enters practical and down-to-earth Taurus, forming a Grand Trine on April 18 with Pluto and Saturn.
Then, expressive Sun follows Mercury into Taurus, on April 19, immediately enhancing the beneficial grand trine on April 20 and 21, with hard-working Saturn in Virgo and intense Pluto in achievement-oriented Capricorn.
A grand trine occurs when you have three celestial bodies that are all separated by a span of 120-degrees. Trines favor focus on high ideals, insight, vision, creative expression and well-being. Grand trines specifically promote self-confidence, self-assurance, optimism, expectation, a sense of pleasure, an easy flow of energy, inspiration, expansion of creativity and a sense of inner hope and faith.
Because this trine is happening in earth signs, expect people with valuable advice and experience to come out of the woodwork. These people will help you accomplish your aims -- whether you want to pitch your latest creative project, start a business or set up a savings plan for retirement. You can do more now to make your life secure and stable than you have for a long time.
Sunday, April 13, 2008
Propitiating the Planets
When any planet starts giving negative results in a person's life, it is best to pacify them by donating the items symbolized by these planets, and chanting their mantras.
Sun
Moon
Mars
Mercury
Jupiter
Venus
Saturn
Rahu
Ketu
Sun
Moon
Mars
Mercury
Jupiter
Venus
Saturn
Rahu
Ketu
Mantras as Remedies
Astrological mantras are Sanskrit phrases, the effects of which (when chanted) are known. The meaning of each mantra is given below, and because they appear quite devotional, one could think that they work due to the faith of the person practicing. However, this is not the case. It is primarily the vibration of the sounds on the human nervous system which will cause the subtle positive effects on the person and neutralize the harmful energy indicated by an afflicted planet.
Sanskrit is the language of the Vedas, the Indian body of knowledge which predates religion and is said to have been cognized by ancient enlightened beings. It is revered as a pure language because there is essentially no difference between a particular word and the object it describes. This is called "name and form." These prayers of a sort invoke the grace of a planetary energy to lessen its negative effects as revealed in the horoscope.
Mantras are commonly used in India,and have also withstood the test of time. Regarding proof of their power, it is simply up to the reader to test these practices and draw conclusions based upon experience. It is noted that Indians generally accept such matters on faith and also have great patience, the latter being a necessity for the use of mantras. Their behavior is not without reason, as anyone having been to India for any length of time may understand.
Mantras, in India, are not closely guarded secrets despite what many people think. They are widely available in common print. In recent years, as Hindu teachers have come out to the West to spread their knowledge, many have through experience seen fit to attach a great privacy to the techniques they have given out. The West is an entirely different culture than the East, and their actions were likely quite appropriate. However, it should not be concluded that because these mantras are in print they are not effective, ancient, or genuine. They are a standard body of knowledge passed on from generation to generation. Many mantras considered highly esoteric or secretive in the West are found quite openly in Indian scriptures on the subject.
Regarding the procedure of chanting, one may be sitting, standing, or walking while practicing, but the best effects are gained when the chanting is done softly and gently. Although the instruction of chanting does not include dwelling on the meaning of the mantra, the process should be a conscious one. During the practice one may notice his attention easily focusing on the vibration of the sound within the body. A very peaceful and relaxing state will result when this is done properly. The chanting should be smooth and repeated somewhat in a monotone to fully appreciate the vibrations, but the rate of speed may be as quick as desired.
Each mantra has a designated number of times it must be repeated. Although some peace of mind may immediately result from chanting, the desired effects connected to the significations of the planet and the houses that it rules are supposed to be realized after the allotted number of chantings have been performed. In India, beads similar to a rosary are used to count the chanting. During the practice, one bead is kept between the thumb and middle finger to keep track of the number of repetitions. The most desirable beads, according to many Hindus, are rudrakshas, which are found In India or Nepal and are considered somewhat sacred. The next best are tulst beads, which are also sacred but easier to come by. A string of 108 beads is used for the counting, and one bead, known as the Guru bead, is slightly protruded from the others so one knows when the mantra has been chanted 108 times. This is called one mala. At the conclusion of one mala the person either stops or turns back, so the Guru bead is never crossed. One may chant as many or as few malas as desired during each sessiorl In any case, it is the chanting, not the beads, which is important. Therefore, any means of counting will do. A rosary, though, is probably the simplest way.
NOTE: Mantras should be given to a person during the waxing phase of the Moon and on the day ruled by the planet whose mantra is employed. E.g., give out a Sun mantra on Sunday and let the person begin chanting on that day. The ideal time to chant one of these mantras Is In the early morning when all is quiet.
MANTRA FOR THE SUN - - To be chanted 7,000 times (not necessarily in one sitting):
PRONUNCIATION:
Japa kusuma sankarsham kashya-peeyam maha-djutim, tamorim sarva pahpagnam pranato smee divahkaram.
Let us chant the glories of the Sun god, whose beauty rivals that of a flower. I bow down to him, the greatly effulgent sun of Kasayapa who is the enemy of darkness, and destroyer of all sins.
MANTRA FOR THE MOON - - To be chanted 11,000 times:
PRONUNCIATION:
Dadee shanka tusha-rabam ksheero darnava sambhavam na-mahmee shasheenam somam samboor mookuta booshanam.
I offer my obeisances to the Moon god, whose complexion resembles curds, the whiteness of conch shells, and snow. He is the ruling deity of the soma-rasa, borh from the Ocean of Milk and he serves as the ornament on top of the head of Lord S’ambhu.
MANTRA FOR MARS - - To be chanted 10,000 times:
PRONUNCIATION:
Daranee garbha sambootam vidyut-kahntee sama-prabam koomahram shaktee hastam-cha mangalam prana-mam mya-ham.
I offer my obeisances to Sri Mangala, god of the Planet Mars, who was born from the womb of the earth goddess. His brilliant effulgence is like that of lightning, and he appears as a youth carrying a spear in his hand.
MANTRA FOR VENUS - - To be chanted 16,000 times.
PRONUNCIATION:
Heema-kunda mri-nala-bam deyt-yanam para-mam gurum sarva-shastra pravak-taram barga-vam prana-mam mya-ham.
I offer my obeisances to the descendant of Bhrigu Muni (Venus), whose complexion is white like a pond covered with ice. He is the supreme spiritual master of the demoniac enemies of the demigods and has spoken to them all the revered scriptures.
MANTRA FOR MERCURY - - To be chanted 4,000 times
PRONUNCIATION:
Preeyangava guleekash yam roopeyna prateemahm budam, sowmyam sowmya goono-peytam tam boodam prana-mahm mya-ham.
I bow down to Buddha, god of the planet Mercury, whose face is like a fragrant globe of the priyangu herb and whose beauty matches that of a lotus flower. He is most gentle, possessing all attractive qualities.
MANTRA FOR JUPITER - - To be chanted 19,000 times:
PRONUNCIATION:
Deva-nancha rishee-nancha gurum-kanchana saneebam boodee bootam treelo-keysham tam na-mamee brihas-pateem.
I bow down to Braspati, god of the planet Jupiter. He is the spiritual master of all the demigods and sages. His complexion is golden and he is full of intelligence. He is the controlling lord of all three worlds.
MANTRA FOR SATURN - - To be chanted 23,000 times.
PRONUNCIATION:
Nee-lanjana sama-basam ravee-putram yema-grajam chaya-martanda sam-bootam tam namahmee sanee-charam.
I bow down to slow moving Saturn, whose complexion is dark blue like nilanjana ointment. He is the elder brother of Lord Yamaraja born from the Sun-god and his wife Chaya.
MANTRA FOR RAHU - - To be chanted 18,000 times.
PRONUNCIATION:
Arda-kayam maha-viryam chandra ditya veemar-danam seeng-hee-ka garba sambootam tam rahum prana-mam mya-ham.
I offer my obeisances to Rahu, born from the womb of Simhika, who has only half a body yet posses great power, being able to subdue the Sun and the Moon.
MANTRA FOR KETU - - To be chanted 17,000 times.
PRONUNCIATION:
Palasha-pushpa-sankasham taraka-grahu masta-kam rowdram row-drat makam goram tam keytoom prana-mam mya-ham
I offer my obeisances to the violent and fearsome Ketu, who is endowed with the potency of Lord Shiva. Resembling in his complexion the flower of a palasa plant, he serves as the head of the stars and planets.
Sanskrit is the language of the Vedas, the Indian body of knowledge which predates religion and is said to have been cognized by ancient enlightened beings. It is revered as a pure language because there is essentially no difference between a particular word and the object it describes. This is called "name and form." These prayers of a sort invoke the grace of a planetary energy to lessen its negative effects as revealed in the horoscope.
Mantras are commonly used in India,and have also withstood the test of time. Regarding proof of their power, it is simply up to the reader to test these practices and draw conclusions based upon experience. It is noted that Indians generally accept such matters on faith and also have great patience, the latter being a necessity for the use of mantras. Their behavior is not without reason, as anyone having been to India for any length of time may understand.
Mantras, in India, are not closely guarded secrets despite what many people think. They are widely available in common print. In recent years, as Hindu teachers have come out to the West to spread their knowledge, many have through experience seen fit to attach a great privacy to the techniques they have given out. The West is an entirely different culture than the East, and their actions were likely quite appropriate. However, it should not be concluded that because these mantras are in print they are not effective, ancient, or genuine. They are a standard body of knowledge passed on from generation to generation. Many mantras considered highly esoteric or secretive in the West are found quite openly in Indian scriptures on the subject.
Regarding the procedure of chanting, one may be sitting, standing, or walking while practicing, but the best effects are gained when the chanting is done softly and gently. Although the instruction of chanting does not include dwelling on the meaning of the mantra, the process should be a conscious one. During the practice one may notice his attention easily focusing on the vibration of the sound within the body. A very peaceful and relaxing state will result when this is done properly. The chanting should be smooth and repeated somewhat in a monotone to fully appreciate the vibrations, but the rate of speed may be as quick as desired.
Each mantra has a designated number of times it must be repeated. Although some peace of mind may immediately result from chanting, the desired effects connected to the significations of the planet and the houses that it rules are supposed to be realized after the allotted number of chantings have been performed. In India, beads similar to a rosary are used to count the chanting. During the practice, one bead is kept between the thumb and middle finger to keep track of the number of repetitions. The most desirable beads, according to many Hindus, are rudrakshas, which are found In India or Nepal and are considered somewhat sacred. The next best are tulst beads, which are also sacred but easier to come by. A string of 108 beads is used for the counting, and one bead, known as the Guru bead, is slightly protruded from the others so one knows when the mantra has been chanted 108 times. This is called one mala. At the conclusion of one mala the person either stops or turns back, so the Guru bead is never crossed. One may chant as many or as few malas as desired during each sessiorl In any case, it is the chanting, not the beads, which is important. Therefore, any means of counting will do. A rosary, though, is probably the simplest way.
NOTE: Mantras should be given to a person during the waxing phase of the Moon and on the day ruled by the planet whose mantra is employed. E.g., give out a Sun mantra on Sunday and let the person begin chanting on that day. The ideal time to chant one of these mantras Is In the early morning when all is quiet.
MANTRA FOR THE SUN - - To be chanted 7,000 times (not necessarily in one sitting):
PRONUNCIATION:
Japa kusuma sankarsham kashya-peeyam maha-djutim, tamorim sarva pahpagnam pranato smee divahkaram.
Let us chant the glories of the Sun god, whose beauty rivals that of a flower. I bow down to him, the greatly effulgent sun of Kasayapa who is the enemy of darkness, and destroyer of all sins.
MANTRA FOR THE MOON - - To be chanted 11,000 times:
PRONUNCIATION:
Dadee shanka tusha-rabam ksheero darnava sambhavam na-mahmee shasheenam somam samboor mookuta booshanam.
I offer my obeisances to the Moon god, whose complexion resembles curds, the whiteness of conch shells, and snow. He is the ruling deity of the soma-rasa, borh from the Ocean of Milk and he serves as the ornament on top of the head of Lord S’ambhu.
MANTRA FOR MARS - - To be chanted 10,000 times:
PRONUNCIATION:
Daranee garbha sambootam vidyut-kahntee sama-prabam koomahram shaktee hastam-cha mangalam prana-mam mya-ham.
I offer my obeisances to Sri Mangala, god of the Planet Mars, who was born from the womb of the earth goddess. His brilliant effulgence is like that of lightning, and he appears as a youth carrying a spear in his hand.
MANTRA FOR VENUS - - To be chanted 16,000 times.
PRONUNCIATION:
Heema-kunda mri-nala-bam deyt-yanam para-mam gurum sarva-shastra pravak-taram barga-vam prana-mam mya-ham.
I offer my obeisances to the descendant of Bhrigu Muni (Venus), whose complexion is white like a pond covered with ice. He is the supreme spiritual master of the demoniac enemies of the demigods and has spoken to them all the revered scriptures.
MANTRA FOR MERCURY - - To be chanted 4,000 times
PRONUNCIATION:
Preeyangava guleekash yam roopeyna prateemahm budam, sowmyam sowmya goono-peytam tam boodam prana-mahm mya-ham.
I bow down to Buddha, god of the planet Mercury, whose face is like a fragrant globe of the priyangu herb and whose beauty matches that of a lotus flower. He is most gentle, possessing all attractive qualities.
MANTRA FOR JUPITER - - To be chanted 19,000 times:
PRONUNCIATION:
Deva-nancha rishee-nancha gurum-kanchana saneebam boodee bootam treelo-keysham tam na-mamee brihas-pateem.
I bow down to Braspati, god of the planet Jupiter. He is the spiritual master of all the demigods and sages. His complexion is golden and he is full of intelligence. He is the controlling lord of all three worlds.
MANTRA FOR SATURN - - To be chanted 23,000 times.
PRONUNCIATION:
Nee-lanjana sama-basam ravee-putram yema-grajam chaya-martanda sam-bootam tam namahmee sanee-charam.
I bow down to slow moving Saturn, whose complexion is dark blue like nilanjana ointment. He is the elder brother of Lord Yamaraja born from the Sun-god and his wife Chaya.
MANTRA FOR RAHU - - To be chanted 18,000 times.
PRONUNCIATION:
Arda-kayam maha-viryam chandra ditya veemar-danam seeng-hee-ka garba sambootam tam rahum prana-mam mya-ham.
I offer my obeisances to Rahu, born from the womb of Simhika, who has only half a body yet posses great power, being able to subdue the Sun and the Moon.
MANTRA FOR KETU - - To be chanted 17,000 times.
PRONUNCIATION:
Palasha-pushpa-sankasham taraka-grahu masta-kam rowdram row-drat makam goram tam keytoom prana-mam mya-ham
I offer my obeisances to the violent and fearsome Ketu, who is endowed with the potency of Lord Shiva. Resembling in his complexion the flower of a palasa plant, he serves as the head of the stars and planets.
the Celestial Nodes: Rahu and Ketu
The Mythology
Understanding Rahu & Ketu in Our Natal Charts
Vedic Hymn to Rahu
Rahu and the Nakshatras
Ketu
Vedic Hymn to Ketu
Ketu and the Nakshatras
Kal Sarpa Yoga
Transitions
RAHU-KETU
Rahu Ketu is the name given to the Nodes of the Moon. Rahu is the North Node and Ketu is the South Node. They are points on the ecliptic where the Moon is in alignment with the Sun and the Earth. They indicate the precise point of the harmony with the three most important influences in our life- the Sun, the Earth and the Moon. This relationship plays an important part in the unfolding of individual consciousness.
Their role as Karmic indicators of our life is connected with their power to cause eclipses. The eclipses occur in the vicinity of Rahu Ketu during the Full Moon and the New Moon. (During New Moon when it is +/- 18 degrees from Rahu Ketu, the Solar eclipse takes place. At the full Moon +/- 11 degrees 15' from the nodal position, the Lunar eclipse takes place.) As they symbolically eclipse the Sun (consciousness) and the Moon (the Mind), they have a great part to play in darkening our perspective in order to bring in new light. They deal with the concept of death and re-birth, transformation and regeneration. During the eclipses the light from the Luminaries is darkened. The energies created are powerfully psychic, pregnant with new information and occult power. The period after the eclipse is considered a rebirth of the Sun and the Moon. The role of Rahu Ketu in this powerful alignment of the Sun Moon and the Earth gives them the role of the ultimate controllers of the destiny.
The prime importance given to Rahu Ketu in Vedic Astrology is one of it's key features. They have been given the status of Planets to emphasise their significance and the importance placed on eclipses. They are known as Chayya Grahas (shadow planets). They have no substance and are physically non-existent. Yet their influence is full of potency and spiritual significance. They work in unison 180 degrees apart, two opposite points in the zodiac with a mission to churn our lives in order to externalise hidden potential and wisdom. In keeping with their shadowy nature, they work on a psychological level. It is always difficult to gauge their effect because their main concern is with our emotional makeup. They effect us internally. We are unaware of what exactly is happening to us at the time.
In Vedic Astrology, the concept of the Soul's journey through different lifetimes is central to it. The final goal of the soul is to break this cycle of life and death. Like the beads on a necklace, various lifetimes are joined together to form a necklace, each life being different but interconnected by an invisible thread. The invisible thread is Rahu and Ketu. The purpose of the soul in this life to act out his given Karma, destroy the illusions of the materialistic life and move towards the pursuit of self realisation. To live on the astral planes where pleasure and pain do not have the capacity to hurt, the mind is still and at peace. The soul's journey in a particular life time and it's connection with eternal life is indicated by the position of Rahu and Ketu. Ketu deals with the past Karma and Rahu with the future.
The five instincts that keep us attached to the materialistic purpose of life are Kaam (Desire, passions) Krodh (Anger) Madh (intoxicants- drugs, alcohol etc) Moh (Attachment) Lobh(Greed) and Matsaya(Jealousy). We need to control our instincts rather than allowing ourselves to be controlled by them. Both Rahu and Ketu have the ability to keep our mind focused on these instincts- Rahu by exaggerating and Ketu by obscuring or blocking. We are tied down to the cycle of unhappiness and dissatisfaction as we cannot break away from our lower selves. We are born again and again to experience the pleasures and pains of the earthly life until we recognise them to be the illusions that they are. On a subconscious level we are afraid that if we give up these desires, we will lose out. Once we start understanding the principle of letting go, enjoying what life has to offer but not getting attached, then we are able to grow spiritually. Rahu Ketu deals with the inner fight within us, the moral and the social choices we have to constantly make and the inner dilemmas.
The Mythology
There are many Myths and legends attached to Rahu Ketu. The most well known one is of Rahu Ketu as the Naga Vasuki- the ruler of the Patala Loka (the nether regions of the earth). Nagas in Vedic literature are not ordinary snakes but Serpents with much hidden knowledge and wisdom. There was a great war between the gods and the demons for the control of the universe and at the centre of it was the ocean which was being churned to find the hidden treasures and the Amrita- the nectar of immortality. Vasuki helped the gods in their mission. He was the rope tied around the spiritual mountain Mandara, which was the rod, used by the gods to churn the ocean.
When the Amrita was found the gods wanted to keep it for themselves as they felt that the demons would use it for the wrong purpose. Vasuki being a demon, his instincts were for personal glorification and materialistic happiness rather than universal good. (Sacrificing self for others is considered the godly impulse). Vasuki, was more intelligent than the other demons, he was not willing to be distracted by the gods. He drank the nectar of immortality secretly. The Sun and the Moon complained to Lord Vishnu, the creator of the Universe, who was very angry at this deception. In anger he threw the Sudharshan Chakra at Vasuki and cut him into two. Vasuki had drunk the Amrita and was immortal, therefore could not be killed. He remained in the skies as Rahu(the head)Ketu (the lower half), a permanent reminder to the other planets(gods) of the darker side of life which we have to defeat in the pursuit of immortality.
Rahu Ketu are considered great enemies of the Sun and the Moon because they told Lord Vishnu about them. They symbolically swallow the two luminaries during the eclipses. Their capacity to darken the Sun and the Moon make Rahu Ketu the most powerful influences in the Zodiac. The Sun around whom the other planets and the solar system revolves, the Moon which controls life on earth, are obscured by Rahu Ketu during eclipses. Rahu Ketu represent Cosmic Law which everyone including the Sun and the Moon have to obey.
This allegory has to be understood as life. The Gods without the help of Vasuki (Rahu Ketu) could not find the secret of immortality. In the same way we as humans cannot find our higher selves without understanding the lessons of Rahu and Ketu. They represent the darker side of our nature which we need to overcome. Our inner emotions are like the ocean being churned. Within this ocean lie a number of treasures as well as poisons and nasty things. We have learn to recognise the precious from the dross and finally find Amrita- the secret of immortality or true happiness. The conflict between our attachment to materialistic achievements (this gives us momentary happiness which is a fantasy as it has no real basis, the domain of Rahu) and liberation of the soul, finding bliss and tranquillity which is eternal and everlasting (Ketu is the Moksha karaka significator for spiritual realisation). The gods needed the help of Vasuki in the Amrita manthan and in the same way we need the knowledge provided by the wise nodes to give direction.
Understanding Rahu and Ketu in our Natal Charts
To understand the influence of Rahu Ketu in our chart we must learn about their shadow nature. This is the most important factor in when dealing with the influence of the nodes. They are only points in the Zodiac therefore they are unable to enact their effect on their own. The nodes take on the characteristics of their dispositor as they have no substance themselves. It is very important to study the sign, position and placement of the depositor. Here it is important to understand that although the nodes are influenced by their depositor, the depositor itself carries forward the influence of the nodes. The basic results of Rahu- Ketu are modified by their location in your chart. The signs/ houses they are placed in. The aspects they receive and the aspects they throw out. Also if they are in conjunction with another planet (note in Vedic Astrology a planet in the same house is considered conjunct. The closer the conjunction the stronger the influence.) they will throw out it's influence. For example if Rahu is in conjunction with Mars it will throw the aspect of Mars along with that of it's depositor.
Rahu Ketu are the personal eclipse points. Therefore they are areas where you need to work out your Karma, past as well as future. They are our Karmic responsibilities. We have to learn to look beyond the momentary darkness that Rahu Ketu represent. They highlight the negative side of our nature which we need to overcome to move towards the spiritual growth. They work psychologically, therefore it is hard to pin- point their effect. They are the axis of life which indicates the path of spiritual growth from past life ( Ketu) to the Future (Rahu). Knowledge of both the past and present are needed for true understanding of life. The past shapes the personality we are now, the negative and the positive Karma we are going to experience. It shades our psyche to how we are going to tackle the present. The future is always uncertain therefore can seem like darkness and carry fear and uncertainty within it. We have to really come to terms with our past to be able to not get afraid of the future. Rahu is showing this direction, Ketu is sometime blocking due to our actions of the past.
Rahu Ketu have twin purpose, one in the mundane life and another in the spiritual life but it is intertwined, like their shadowy nature. Their actions in the material realm are meant so that we change our thoughts and ideas about what we want and desire. What is darkness to a person enmeshed in materialistic ambitions can be powerful spiritual energy for those on the path of Moksha and spiritual enlightenment.
The nodes always serves opposing purposes- good and bad, lots and nothing, give and take. Rahu gives, Ketu takes back. The are no straight rules about them. They operate in so many different colours which can lead you to the highest spiritual pinnacle to the greatest financial achievements or vice versa. They can give contrary results. You can never give predictions dealing with surety.
They can create fear of the unknown. They can create sudden and unexpected results.
The saying is that Rahu Ketu always take away what they give because they have a special reason for granting you your wishes. To realise that what they give is not necessarily what you want once you have achieved it. They highlight dissatisfaction within ourselves.
RAHU
Vedic Hymn to Rahu
'Rahu is snake shaped, born of a lioness and a devourer of the Sun and the Moon'
Rahu is the head part of the celestial snake. This hymn refers to Rahu being snake shaped. The snakes are given great importance in Vedic mythology. Lord Shiva has a snake around his neck, Lord Vishnu's throne was Shesh Naga - the Eternal Serpent. Shesh Naga represents the cycles of time and space which the seed of cosmic creation. The Nagas are shaped like snakes but stand tall. The Nagas are highly evolved beings. They are wise, but their wisdom can be used for both good and bad. The Naga sheds his skin, this symbolises transformation,re-birth. The snakes in Vedic literature remind people of their mortality.
The 'devouring of the Sun and Moon' are when Rahu eclipses the luminaries. This shows the important part Rahu has to play in changing the course of our life. The Sun and Moon are Royal planets under whose dictates the universe and life on earth revolves. But Rahu can darken this light, therefore it controls the process of life. The Sun is the Soul and Moon the Mind, when they are eclipsed, they go through regeneration, transformation and death.
Rahu takes people off their Dharmic past path to tempt them on the road of self destruction. But Rahu has a very definite purpose in doing so. It wants you to learn, taste and feel everything so that from the full satiation of your senses you turn a new leaf on the path of self realisation and find their true enlightenment. Rahu on a physical plane gives you insatiable desire to achieve, to conquer. Once you have reached the pinnacle of achievement, you realise this success you have achieved has not brought with it happiness because you were in fact chasing an illusion. There are many cults in India which preach satiation of all your mundane and carnal desires so that we can learn the important lesson of fulfilment of all your desires do not give you the true happiness.
Rahu signifies foreigners in all fields- people, countries, tastes.
Rahu behaves like Saturn. It deals with drugs, poisons, over ambition, power play, hidden knowledge,
Rahu's element is air. It deals with all aspects of air related activities air travel, Air accidents, Aviation, Pilots etc. Other significations of Rahu include students of Astrology, metaphysical knowledge, witchcraft, skin diseases, small pox, deception, politics, political manoeuvre, inventions, scientists, execution, diseases, disenchantment etc.
Rahu and the Nakshatras
Rahu Ketu rule 3 Nakshtras (fixed stars) each. Rahu rules Ardra ( 6 degree 40' to 20 degrees 00' Gemini), Swati ( 6 degrees 40' to 20 degrees 00' Libra) and Shatabishak (6 degrees 40' to 20 degrees 00'Aquarius), all in the Air triplicity . Mercury, Venus and Saturn represent intellectualism, pleasure and righteous behaviour. Rahu has the capacity to bestow in all these areas.
As the ruler of the fixed star Ardra( 6 degree 40' to 20 degrees 00' Gemini), Rahu represents the highest thinking, Ardra is the Nakshatra where we begin our learning about the nature's law. Ardra is in 6 degree 40' to 20 degrees Gemini a sign ruled by Mercury. At the cosmic stage of Ardra, there is conflict on the outer level where we are dissatisfied with our present surrounding, so we start looking for answers. This can be through knowledge, occult and communication The duality of Gemini as well as the celestial powers of Mercury are present. Ardra's symbol is of a head or a single jewel. both symbolising ideas, mind and thinking. Rahu is always about matchless ambition and in Ardra it combines it with the capacity for knowledge. Planets in Ardra get motivated towards greater occult learning. Rudra, the God of Destruction is Ardra's presiding Diety.. Rudra is a form of Shiva. Rudra's mission is to destroy ignorance, therefore he directs the consciousness towards knowledge and finding the answers for ourselves about this manifestation. At Ardra we start to study or learn about the Law of Nature. The first time we become dissatisfied with the materialistic nature of our lives and start towards expanding the horizons of our spiritual selves..
The Second Nakshatra ruled by Rahu is Swati ( 6 degrees 40' to 20 degrees 00' Libra) Planets in Swati indicate the depth of the soul's involvement in Materialism. The indicator of the soul in our chart, the Sun, is debilitated here and Saturn the worker of the Zodiac is exalted here. Under Swati, the impulse is all about material gain. Venus rules the earthly needs in an individual. Combining it with Rahu it adds further to the desire for success, wealth and finance. Many millionaires are born with their Moon's or Saturn in Swati. The presiding diety is Vayu (air).The Symbol is Coral. The location of this Nakshatra in Libra indicates that the experience of full involvment into earthy, materialistic pleasures will bring with it dissatisfaction because the scales will be heavy to one side. Once success is achieved we feel empty, alone and dissatisfied with our achievement, many try for more success but the correct thing would be to look towards your higher self at this time. Libra is a stage of life when we start thinking about the spiritual meaning of life but only once the other urges have been fulfilled.
Shatabishak( 6 degrees 40' to 20 degrees 00'Aquarius) is the final Nakshatra ruled by Rahu. Aquarius is ruled by Saturn and Rahu's rulership of the Nakshtra makes a very difficult combination where life has to have a purpose and the total direction is about learning lessons. Rahu gives results like Saturn but on a psychological level. This double Saturnine influence on planets placed here is difficult to handle unless our activities are directed towards service to humanity. Here both Rahu and Saturn are concerned about changing our purpose of life, giving us the final answers. Rahu on the internal level and Saturn on an external level offers restrictions, obstacles and transformation. The need to understand the final lessons of life as well as duty to others are two of the important aspects of Shatabishak. Its symbol is the thousand petalled flower, Shatabishak is where the Kundalini flowers and we reach towards the full awareness of our consciousness. This is the stage in life where we activate the Sahasara (Crown) Chakra. Rahu brings forth its full power as the teacher of cosmic law. When the Moon is in Shatabishak, its materialistic tendencies are shed completely and we moves towards the true purpose of life. We are ready to transcend to the next phase of spiritual development.
All the quarters of Rahu's Nakshatra are ruled by Jupiter and Saturn, the significators of spirituality and occult initiation. They are Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius and Pisces. Each pada (quarter) represents the ninth harmonic of the natal chart. Together these four signs represent the final stages of spiritual development. As the Rahu Nakshatras represent a point in cycle of life where we are starting to change, these padas further indicate that life on an internal level remain the same again. Sagittarius is the level when man learns to control the base emotions,changes from animal to human, at Capricorn we learn about the duties and responsibilities to others, Aquarius represents the stage of development where we are now privy to full knowledge. At Pisces we are able to make the final change, sow the seeds for future growth. So although the stages of the soul's journey are different in Ardra ( Gemini) Swati ( Libra) and Shatabishak( Aquarius) the underlying urge, represented by the quarters, is still the same- to evolve. The ending of one way of life and the beginning of another.
KETU
Vedic Hymn to Ketu
' Decked with silk, flowers, garlands, sandal paste and an umbrella, of variegated colour, born of Jaimini's family under Abhijit Nakshatra…'
Ketu is the lower part of the celestial snake.
This hymn shows the main difference between Rahu and Ketu, Rahu is dark in colour but Ketu has a variegated colour. Therefore it has the capacity to shine a light on you suddenly, bring about enlightenment.
Ketu is born to the Jaimini family who followed the Mimasa school of philosophy. Their main concern was the correct interpretations of the vedic rituals and settling any controversies about the Vedic texts. Ketu himself is guiding towards meditation of the nature of creation, intuitiveness, the true understanding of universe and the guidance of the soul towards it's final salvation or Moksha.
Ketu causes great impediments in your paths. It sets up roadblocks, traffic jams, boulders in your journey of life. It causes pain. It wants to change your psyche. You learn to leave your excess baggage of past Karma behind. Travel lightly into your this existence so that you can understand there are areas of your life which need to address and some left behind. Those unable to harness the power of Ketu or understand its karmic path can be lead to a sorrowful existence. Sometimes it is difficult for any one do stand in the way of Ketu power. We need to accept and understand the divine plan which is part of our destiny and Ketu is doing its work to produce in you the enlightenment which would lead to true enlightenment and honour. The effect of the Ketu problems are like the going through the ritual of fire from which one comes out stronger more powerful to be able to take on the problems thrown at us
Ketu will act like Mars and so will it's dispositor. Fiery in nature, it signifies accidents or injury specially due to fire.
Ketu rules 7 years in the planetary life cycle. Ketu always has a sting in it's tale. So the ending of Ketu Maha Dasha one has to be vary of unexpected happening
Ketu is considered the keeper of the book of our life- past and present Karmas.
Ketu is known as Dhwajah- flag. It's association with in dignity with a planet has the capacity to boost it's capabilities- good or bad beyond recognition for lotteries and windfall. Ketu in conjunction with a benefic can give beyond your wildest expectations.
Some of the signification of Ketu are Ascetics, assassinations, trouble through cats, calirvoyance, contemplation, desire for knowledge, deep thinking, imprisonment, poison, intrigues, magical powers, poverty, mysticism etc.
Ketu and the Nakshatras
The Nakshatra's Ketu rules are Ashwini (Aries), Magha (Leo) and Mula (Sagittarius), the fire triplicity. These are the beginning stages in the cycles of life. Mars, Sun and Jupiter the rulers of Aries, Leo and Sagittarius are friends with each other. Together they represent strength, the soul and wisdom, Ketu has the capacity to give in these areas. A proper blending of these three planets in our natal charts direct us towards seeking Moksha- the final liberation from the cycle of life and death.
Aries deals with birth, a new life, freshness of approach and start of the cycle of Life.
0 degrees to 13 degrees 20 is Ashwini, the first Nakshatra ruled by Ketu. Ashwini indicates the beginning of the soul's journey into the earthly life. Ketu's rulership of this part of the Zodiac is full of occult significations. Ketu is the significator for Moksha. The beginning part of life indicated by Aries ruled by Ketu Nakshatra shows that the true reason of our manifestation on earth is to find the Moksha- the final salvation from the cycles of life and death. This is the stage where mind is pure and we have not yet entangled ourselves into knots which represent the attachment to life. Sun, the signifactor of the soul, our inner consciousness is exalted in Ashwini. Ashwini is in Aries ruled by Mars. Ketu acts like Mars but on a psychological level so the purity of Martian action, courage and protection of humanity is powerfully indicated by the planets located here. The past life connection is very strong as Ketu, specially if the Moon is located here.
Magha is the second Nakshatra ruled by Ketu. Magha is in the sign of Leo ( 0 degrees to 13 degrees 20' Leo) ruled by the Sun. Magha is the beginning of the second cycle in the soul's Journey. The signs Leo to Scorpio indicate the soul's full involvement into the pleasures and pains of the earthly life. Ketu, the significator of spiritual realisation ruling the commencing point of the materialistic journey shows the importance of the experience of the realities of life in fulfilling the divine mission of the Soul. Magha's ruling deity is Pitris, who are the fathers of humanity whose mission is to guide their children to the right course of life. The father's only interfere if you are going off the right path. Ketu and Pitris both guide the soul towards it's special mission in life. Planets in Magha are idealistic even if their mission is to fulfil their materialistic needs. This does create misunderstandings at times. Others suspect their honour and sincerity. Magha gives a lot materially, but the person ruled by Magha knows intuitively that the material happiness is only an experience, he still needs to follow the inner purpose of life and move towards Moksha.
Mula is the third Nakshatra ruled by Ketu. Mula is 0 degrees to 13 degrees 20' Sagittarius. This is the start of the final part of the Soul's mission towards finding the answers that will lead to his breaking away from the cycles of life and death. This is one of the most difficult Nakshatra for planets to be situated in specially the Moon. The deity that rules Mula is Nittriti, the goddess of death and destruction. This personifies the destruction of the material sheaths and the foundation on which the spiritual enfoldment can be undertaken. The pain experienced by the influence of Mula changes the personality. Attachment to the lower nature and material tendencies have to be severed so that a new spiritual beginning can happen. This is the Nakshatra of initiation towards spiritual realisation. Ketu fulfills it's role as Moksha karaka by arousing the soul towards it's ultimate destination. Mula means root and it also is Muladhara chakra (Base Chakra) where the Kundalini power lies dormant and has to be activated. Ketu rules this and Rahu with it's rulership of Shatabishak- the Crown Chakra indicate the real spiritual insight provided by the nodes. At times they create powerful negativity to focus your mind towards the absolute knowledge.
The quarters of Ketu's Nakshatras are ruled by Mars, Venus, Gemini and the Moon. Mars is courage, Venus- the guide to material fulfilment, Mercury the pure intellect and Moon, the emotional Mind. The signs these planets rule are Aries, Taurus, Gemini and Cancer- the four sign that lead the soul towards experiencing the life on earth. Each pada (quarter) represents the ninth harmonic of the natal chart. Together these four signs represent the beginning stages of spiritual development. As the Ketu Nakshatras represent a point in cycle of life where we have to move towards the divine mission of the soul. They always indicate a beginning and an ending at two different levels. Aries is about discovery of new ideas and the courage to explore them. Taurus is where we nurture the creative potential of our new beginnings. Gemini develops the mind and the recognition of time, space, the working of the universal law. Cancer makes time and space possible. It is ruled by the Moon and Water which also leads us towards purification of mind and harmonising the spiritual and the material. The stages of the soul's journey are different in Ashwini (Mars) Magha (Leo) and Mula (Sagittarius) the underlying urge, represented by the quarters, is still the same- to evolve. The ending of one way of life and the beginning of another.
Kal Sarpa Yoga
Kala Sarpa Yoga is formed when Rahu Ketu hem in the planets in the natal chart i.e. if Rahu is 10 degrees Leo and Ketu 10 degrees Aquarius and all the planets are within these degrees, either from Leo to Aquarius or Aquarius to Leo (Vedic Astrology does not use the outer planets Uranus, Neptune and Pluto). For this yoga to be complete, no planet should conjunct Rahu or Ketu. It restricts completely any indications of the charts. However capable the person, his life is impeded due to past Karma. Important lessons have to be faced in this life, where no amount of effort is rewarded, obstacles are encountered at every junction for inexplicable reasons.
The Yoga does not suggest either success or failure, but a person caught up in Karmic forces so great that they restrict his/ her destiny. It acts mysteriously, without other indications in the birth Chart. A heavy price is paid for past Karma in this life. Understanding and counter- acting the effects of Kala Sarpa Yoga needs a person to move towards his higher self. As Rahu and Ketu act on the inner self, the need to understand the psychic implications and the inner blocks created by this combination is important.
Transits
To judge the transits of Rahu Ketu we have to look at the planets they conjunct during their transit. The Sun and Moon being the most important planets. In 1998 when Rahu Ketu are transiting through the Leo Aquarius Axis, people with Leo Sun, Moon, Ascendant and Aquarius Sun, Moon, Ascendant are feeling the transforming effect of Rahu Ketu. The transit of Rahu Ketu gives clues to their unpredictability. They normal travel in a retrograde motion, the opposite to other planets. They will suddenly go direct and backwards again, representing the churning process. They can churn up your life, your inner emotion, force you to transform yourself, create unpredictability in your life. To know exactly how powerful their influence will be, you will have to study the eclipses. If the eclipses are taking place within 1to 2 degrees of your natal planets then they will be indicating a time for change. Here it is important to remember that the eclipses work on a psychological level, some of these influence may not be immediately obvious but will reveal themselves in time.
The transit of Rahu also needs to be seen through their Dashas- planetary cycles. They are each assigned a Mahadasha. Rahu has an 18 year period and Ketu a 7 years period. They also have sub- periods in planetary cycles of other planets through which they exercise their power and influence. Whenever the life cycles come into our life they have the overall control over factors which dictate what we are going to be doing.
(Written by Komilla)
Understanding Rahu & Ketu in Our Natal Charts
Vedic Hymn to Rahu
Rahu and the Nakshatras
Ketu
Vedic Hymn to Ketu
Ketu and the Nakshatras
Kal Sarpa Yoga
Transitions
RAHU-KETU
Rahu Ketu is the name given to the Nodes of the Moon. Rahu is the North Node and Ketu is the South Node. They are points on the ecliptic where the Moon is in alignment with the Sun and the Earth. They indicate the precise point of the harmony with the three most important influences in our life- the Sun, the Earth and the Moon. This relationship plays an important part in the unfolding of individual consciousness.
Their role as Karmic indicators of our life is connected with their power to cause eclipses. The eclipses occur in the vicinity of Rahu Ketu during the Full Moon and the New Moon. (During New Moon when it is +/- 18 degrees from Rahu Ketu, the Solar eclipse takes place. At the full Moon +/- 11 degrees 15' from the nodal position, the Lunar eclipse takes place.) As they symbolically eclipse the Sun (consciousness) and the Moon (the Mind), they have a great part to play in darkening our perspective in order to bring in new light. They deal with the concept of death and re-birth, transformation and regeneration. During the eclipses the light from the Luminaries is darkened. The energies created are powerfully psychic, pregnant with new information and occult power. The period after the eclipse is considered a rebirth of the Sun and the Moon. The role of Rahu Ketu in this powerful alignment of the Sun Moon and the Earth gives them the role of the ultimate controllers of the destiny.
The prime importance given to Rahu Ketu in Vedic Astrology is one of it's key features. They have been given the status of Planets to emphasise their significance and the importance placed on eclipses. They are known as Chayya Grahas (shadow planets). They have no substance and are physically non-existent. Yet their influence is full of potency and spiritual significance. They work in unison 180 degrees apart, two opposite points in the zodiac with a mission to churn our lives in order to externalise hidden potential and wisdom. In keeping with their shadowy nature, they work on a psychological level. It is always difficult to gauge their effect because their main concern is with our emotional makeup. They effect us internally. We are unaware of what exactly is happening to us at the time.
In Vedic Astrology, the concept of the Soul's journey through different lifetimes is central to it. The final goal of the soul is to break this cycle of life and death. Like the beads on a necklace, various lifetimes are joined together to form a necklace, each life being different but interconnected by an invisible thread. The invisible thread is Rahu and Ketu. The purpose of the soul in this life to act out his given Karma, destroy the illusions of the materialistic life and move towards the pursuit of self realisation. To live on the astral planes where pleasure and pain do not have the capacity to hurt, the mind is still and at peace. The soul's journey in a particular life time and it's connection with eternal life is indicated by the position of Rahu and Ketu. Ketu deals with the past Karma and Rahu with the future.
The five instincts that keep us attached to the materialistic purpose of life are Kaam (Desire, passions) Krodh (Anger) Madh (intoxicants- drugs, alcohol etc) Moh (Attachment) Lobh(Greed) and Matsaya(Jealousy). We need to control our instincts rather than allowing ourselves to be controlled by them. Both Rahu and Ketu have the ability to keep our mind focused on these instincts- Rahu by exaggerating and Ketu by obscuring or blocking. We are tied down to the cycle of unhappiness and dissatisfaction as we cannot break away from our lower selves. We are born again and again to experience the pleasures and pains of the earthly life until we recognise them to be the illusions that they are. On a subconscious level we are afraid that if we give up these desires, we will lose out. Once we start understanding the principle of letting go, enjoying what life has to offer but not getting attached, then we are able to grow spiritually. Rahu Ketu deals with the inner fight within us, the moral and the social choices we have to constantly make and the inner dilemmas.
The Mythology
There are many Myths and legends attached to Rahu Ketu. The most well known one is of Rahu Ketu as the Naga Vasuki- the ruler of the Patala Loka (the nether regions of the earth). Nagas in Vedic literature are not ordinary snakes but Serpents with much hidden knowledge and wisdom. There was a great war between the gods and the demons for the control of the universe and at the centre of it was the ocean which was being churned to find the hidden treasures and the Amrita- the nectar of immortality. Vasuki helped the gods in their mission. He was the rope tied around the spiritual mountain Mandara, which was the rod, used by the gods to churn the ocean.
When the Amrita was found the gods wanted to keep it for themselves as they felt that the demons would use it for the wrong purpose. Vasuki being a demon, his instincts were for personal glorification and materialistic happiness rather than universal good. (Sacrificing self for others is considered the godly impulse). Vasuki, was more intelligent than the other demons, he was not willing to be distracted by the gods. He drank the nectar of immortality secretly. The Sun and the Moon complained to Lord Vishnu, the creator of the Universe, who was very angry at this deception. In anger he threw the Sudharshan Chakra at Vasuki and cut him into two. Vasuki had drunk the Amrita and was immortal, therefore could not be killed. He remained in the skies as Rahu(the head)Ketu (the lower half), a permanent reminder to the other planets(gods) of the darker side of life which we have to defeat in the pursuit of immortality.
Rahu Ketu are considered great enemies of the Sun and the Moon because they told Lord Vishnu about them. They symbolically swallow the two luminaries during the eclipses. Their capacity to darken the Sun and the Moon make Rahu Ketu the most powerful influences in the Zodiac. The Sun around whom the other planets and the solar system revolves, the Moon which controls life on earth, are obscured by Rahu Ketu during eclipses. Rahu Ketu represent Cosmic Law which everyone including the Sun and the Moon have to obey.
This allegory has to be understood as life. The Gods without the help of Vasuki (Rahu Ketu) could not find the secret of immortality. In the same way we as humans cannot find our higher selves without understanding the lessons of Rahu and Ketu. They represent the darker side of our nature which we need to overcome. Our inner emotions are like the ocean being churned. Within this ocean lie a number of treasures as well as poisons and nasty things. We have learn to recognise the precious from the dross and finally find Amrita- the secret of immortality or true happiness. The conflict between our attachment to materialistic achievements (this gives us momentary happiness which is a fantasy as it has no real basis, the domain of Rahu) and liberation of the soul, finding bliss and tranquillity which is eternal and everlasting (Ketu is the Moksha karaka significator for spiritual realisation). The gods needed the help of Vasuki in the Amrita manthan and in the same way we need the knowledge provided by the wise nodes to give direction.
Understanding Rahu and Ketu in our Natal Charts
To understand the influence of Rahu Ketu in our chart we must learn about their shadow nature. This is the most important factor in when dealing with the influence of the nodes. They are only points in the Zodiac therefore they are unable to enact their effect on their own. The nodes take on the characteristics of their dispositor as they have no substance themselves. It is very important to study the sign, position and placement of the depositor. Here it is important to understand that although the nodes are influenced by their depositor, the depositor itself carries forward the influence of the nodes. The basic results of Rahu- Ketu are modified by their location in your chart. The signs/ houses they are placed in. The aspects they receive and the aspects they throw out. Also if they are in conjunction with another planet (note in Vedic Astrology a planet in the same house is considered conjunct. The closer the conjunction the stronger the influence.) they will throw out it's influence. For example if Rahu is in conjunction with Mars it will throw the aspect of Mars along with that of it's depositor.
Rahu Ketu are the personal eclipse points. Therefore they are areas where you need to work out your Karma, past as well as future. They are our Karmic responsibilities. We have to learn to look beyond the momentary darkness that Rahu Ketu represent. They highlight the negative side of our nature which we need to overcome to move towards the spiritual growth. They work psychologically, therefore it is hard to pin- point their effect. They are the axis of life which indicates the path of spiritual growth from past life ( Ketu) to the Future (Rahu). Knowledge of both the past and present are needed for true understanding of life. The past shapes the personality we are now, the negative and the positive Karma we are going to experience. It shades our psyche to how we are going to tackle the present. The future is always uncertain therefore can seem like darkness and carry fear and uncertainty within it. We have to really come to terms with our past to be able to not get afraid of the future. Rahu is showing this direction, Ketu is sometime blocking due to our actions of the past.
Rahu Ketu have twin purpose, one in the mundane life and another in the spiritual life but it is intertwined, like their shadowy nature. Their actions in the material realm are meant so that we change our thoughts and ideas about what we want and desire. What is darkness to a person enmeshed in materialistic ambitions can be powerful spiritual energy for those on the path of Moksha and spiritual enlightenment.
The nodes always serves opposing purposes- good and bad, lots and nothing, give and take. Rahu gives, Ketu takes back. The are no straight rules about them. They operate in so many different colours which can lead you to the highest spiritual pinnacle to the greatest financial achievements or vice versa. They can give contrary results. You can never give predictions dealing with surety.
They can create fear of the unknown. They can create sudden and unexpected results.
The saying is that Rahu Ketu always take away what they give because they have a special reason for granting you your wishes. To realise that what they give is not necessarily what you want once you have achieved it. They highlight dissatisfaction within ourselves.
RAHU
Vedic Hymn to Rahu
'Rahu is snake shaped, born of a lioness and a devourer of the Sun and the Moon'
Rahu is the head part of the celestial snake. This hymn refers to Rahu being snake shaped. The snakes are given great importance in Vedic mythology. Lord Shiva has a snake around his neck, Lord Vishnu's throne was Shesh Naga - the Eternal Serpent. Shesh Naga represents the cycles of time and space which the seed of cosmic creation. The Nagas are shaped like snakes but stand tall. The Nagas are highly evolved beings. They are wise, but their wisdom can be used for both good and bad. The Naga sheds his skin, this symbolises transformation,re-birth. The snakes in Vedic literature remind people of their mortality.
The 'devouring of the Sun and Moon' are when Rahu eclipses the luminaries. This shows the important part Rahu has to play in changing the course of our life. The Sun and Moon are Royal planets under whose dictates the universe and life on earth revolves. But Rahu can darken this light, therefore it controls the process of life. The Sun is the Soul and Moon the Mind, when they are eclipsed, they go through regeneration, transformation and death.
Rahu takes people off their Dharmic past path to tempt them on the road of self destruction. But Rahu has a very definite purpose in doing so. It wants you to learn, taste and feel everything so that from the full satiation of your senses you turn a new leaf on the path of self realisation and find their true enlightenment. Rahu on a physical plane gives you insatiable desire to achieve, to conquer. Once you have reached the pinnacle of achievement, you realise this success you have achieved has not brought with it happiness because you were in fact chasing an illusion. There are many cults in India which preach satiation of all your mundane and carnal desires so that we can learn the important lesson of fulfilment of all your desires do not give you the true happiness.
Rahu signifies foreigners in all fields- people, countries, tastes.
Rahu behaves like Saturn. It deals with drugs, poisons, over ambition, power play, hidden knowledge,
Rahu's element is air. It deals with all aspects of air related activities air travel, Air accidents, Aviation, Pilots etc. Other significations of Rahu include students of Astrology, metaphysical knowledge, witchcraft, skin diseases, small pox, deception, politics, political manoeuvre, inventions, scientists, execution, diseases, disenchantment etc.
Rahu and the Nakshatras
Rahu Ketu rule 3 Nakshtras (fixed stars) each. Rahu rules Ardra ( 6 degree 40' to 20 degrees 00' Gemini), Swati ( 6 degrees 40' to 20 degrees 00' Libra) and Shatabishak (6 degrees 40' to 20 degrees 00'Aquarius), all in the Air triplicity . Mercury, Venus and Saturn represent intellectualism, pleasure and righteous behaviour. Rahu has the capacity to bestow in all these areas.
As the ruler of the fixed star Ardra( 6 degree 40' to 20 degrees 00' Gemini), Rahu represents the highest thinking, Ardra is the Nakshatra where we begin our learning about the nature's law. Ardra is in 6 degree 40' to 20 degrees Gemini a sign ruled by Mercury. At the cosmic stage of Ardra, there is conflict on the outer level where we are dissatisfied with our present surrounding, so we start looking for answers. This can be through knowledge, occult and communication The duality of Gemini as well as the celestial powers of Mercury are present. Ardra's symbol is of a head or a single jewel. both symbolising ideas, mind and thinking. Rahu is always about matchless ambition and in Ardra it combines it with the capacity for knowledge. Planets in Ardra get motivated towards greater occult learning. Rudra, the God of Destruction is Ardra's presiding Diety.. Rudra is a form of Shiva. Rudra's mission is to destroy ignorance, therefore he directs the consciousness towards knowledge and finding the answers for ourselves about this manifestation. At Ardra we start to study or learn about the Law of Nature. The first time we become dissatisfied with the materialistic nature of our lives and start towards expanding the horizons of our spiritual selves..
The Second Nakshatra ruled by Rahu is Swati ( 6 degrees 40' to 20 degrees 00' Libra) Planets in Swati indicate the depth of the soul's involvement in Materialism. The indicator of the soul in our chart, the Sun, is debilitated here and Saturn the worker of the Zodiac is exalted here. Under Swati, the impulse is all about material gain. Venus rules the earthly needs in an individual. Combining it with Rahu it adds further to the desire for success, wealth and finance. Many millionaires are born with their Moon's or Saturn in Swati. The presiding diety is Vayu (air).The Symbol is Coral. The location of this Nakshatra in Libra indicates that the experience of full involvment into earthy, materialistic pleasures will bring with it dissatisfaction because the scales will be heavy to one side. Once success is achieved we feel empty, alone and dissatisfied with our achievement, many try for more success but the correct thing would be to look towards your higher self at this time. Libra is a stage of life when we start thinking about the spiritual meaning of life but only once the other urges have been fulfilled.
Shatabishak( 6 degrees 40' to 20 degrees 00'Aquarius) is the final Nakshatra ruled by Rahu. Aquarius is ruled by Saturn and Rahu's rulership of the Nakshtra makes a very difficult combination where life has to have a purpose and the total direction is about learning lessons. Rahu gives results like Saturn but on a psychological level. This double Saturnine influence on planets placed here is difficult to handle unless our activities are directed towards service to humanity. Here both Rahu and Saturn are concerned about changing our purpose of life, giving us the final answers. Rahu on the internal level and Saturn on an external level offers restrictions, obstacles and transformation. The need to understand the final lessons of life as well as duty to others are two of the important aspects of Shatabishak. Its symbol is the thousand petalled flower, Shatabishak is where the Kundalini flowers and we reach towards the full awareness of our consciousness. This is the stage in life where we activate the Sahasara (Crown) Chakra. Rahu brings forth its full power as the teacher of cosmic law. When the Moon is in Shatabishak, its materialistic tendencies are shed completely and we moves towards the true purpose of life. We are ready to transcend to the next phase of spiritual development.
All the quarters of Rahu's Nakshatra are ruled by Jupiter and Saturn, the significators of spirituality and occult initiation. They are Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius and Pisces. Each pada (quarter) represents the ninth harmonic of the natal chart. Together these four signs represent the final stages of spiritual development. As the Rahu Nakshatras represent a point in cycle of life where we are starting to change, these padas further indicate that life on an internal level remain the same again. Sagittarius is the level when man learns to control the base emotions,changes from animal to human, at Capricorn we learn about the duties and responsibilities to others, Aquarius represents the stage of development where we are now privy to full knowledge. At Pisces we are able to make the final change, sow the seeds for future growth. So although the stages of the soul's journey are different in Ardra ( Gemini) Swati ( Libra) and Shatabishak( Aquarius) the underlying urge, represented by the quarters, is still the same- to evolve. The ending of one way of life and the beginning of another.
KETU
Vedic Hymn to Ketu
' Decked with silk, flowers, garlands, sandal paste and an umbrella, of variegated colour, born of Jaimini's family under Abhijit Nakshatra…'
Ketu is the lower part of the celestial snake.
This hymn shows the main difference between Rahu and Ketu, Rahu is dark in colour but Ketu has a variegated colour. Therefore it has the capacity to shine a light on you suddenly, bring about enlightenment.
Ketu is born to the Jaimini family who followed the Mimasa school of philosophy. Their main concern was the correct interpretations of the vedic rituals and settling any controversies about the Vedic texts. Ketu himself is guiding towards meditation of the nature of creation, intuitiveness, the true understanding of universe and the guidance of the soul towards it's final salvation or Moksha.
Ketu causes great impediments in your paths. It sets up roadblocks, traffic jams, boulders in your journey of life. It causes pain. It wants to change your psyche. You learn to leave your excess baggage of past Karma behind. Travel lightly into your this existence so that you can understand there are areas of your life which need to address and some left behind. Those unable to harness the power of Ketu or understand its karmic path can be lead to a sorrowful existence. Sometimes it is difficult for any one do stand in the way of Ketu power. We need to accept and understand the divine plan which is part of our destiny and Ketu is doing its work to produce in you the enlightenment which would lead to true enlightenment and honour. The effect of the Ketu problems are like the going through the ritual of fire from which one comes out stronger more powerful to be able to take on the problems thrown at us
Ketu will act like Mars and so will it's dispositor. Fiery in nature, it signifies accidents or injury specially due to fire.
Ketu rules 7 years in the planetary life cycle. Ketu always has a sting in it's tale. So the ending of Ketu Maha Dasha one has to be vary of unexpected happening
Ketu is considered the keeper of the book of our life- past and present Karmas.
Ketu is known as Dhwajah- flag. It's association with in dignity with a planet has the capacity to boost it's capabilities- good or bad beyond recognition for lotteries and windfall. Ketu in conjunction with a benefic can give beyond your wildest expectations.
Some of the signification of Ketu are Ascetics, assassinations, trouble through cats, calirvoyance, contemplation, desire for knowledge, deep thinking, imprisonment, poison, intrigues, magical powers, poverty, mysticism etc.
Ketu and the Nakshatras
The Nakshatra's Ketu rules are Ashwini (Aries), Magha (Leo) and Mula (Sagittarius), the fire triplicity. These are the beginning stages in the cycles of life. Mars, Sun and Jupiter the rulers of Aries, Leo and Sagittarius are friends with each other. Together they represent strength, the soul and wisdom, Ketu has the capacity to give in these areas. A proper blending of these three planets in our natal charts direct us towards seeking Moksha- the final liberation from the cycle of life and death.
Aries deals with birth, a new life, freshness of approach and start of the cycle of Life.
0 degrees to 13 degrees 20 is Ashwini, the first Nakshatra ruled by Ketu. Ashwini indicates the beginning of the soul's journey into the earthly life. Ketu's rulership of this part of the Zodiac is full of occult significations. Ketu is the significator for Moksha. The beginning part of life indicated by Aries ruled by Ketu Nakshatra shows that the true reason of our manifestation on earth is to find the Moksha- the final salvation from the cycles of life and death. This is the stage where mind is pure and we have not yet entangled ourselves into knots which represent the attachment to life. Sun, the signifactor of the soul, our inner consciousness is exalted in Ashwini. Ashwini is in Aries ruled by Mars. Ketu acts like Mars but on a psychological level so the purity of Martian action, courage and protection of humanity is powerfully indicated by the planets located here. The past life connection is very strong as Ketu, specially if the Moon is located here.
Magha is the second Nakshatra ruled by Ketu. Magha is in the sign of Leo ( 0 degrees to 13 degrees 20' Leo) ruled by the Sun. Magha is the beginning of the second cycle in the soul's Journey. The signs Leo to Scorpio indicate the soul's full involvement into the pleasures and pains of the earthly life. Ketu, the significator of spiritual realisation ruling the commencing point of the materialistic journey shows the importance of the experience of the realities of life in fulfilling the divine mission of the Soul. Magha's ruling deity is Pitris, who are the fathers of humanity whose mission is to guide their children to the right course of life. The father's only interfere if you are going off the right path. Ketu and Pitris both guide the soul towards it's special mission in life. Planets in Magha are idealistic even if their mission is to fulfil their materialistic needs. This does create misunderstandings at times. Others suspect their honour and sincerity. Magha gives a lot materially, but the person ruled by Magha knows intuitively that the material happiness is only an experience, he still needs to follow the inner purpose of life and move towards Moksha.
Mula is the third Nakshatra ruled by Ketu. Mula is 0 degrees to 13 degrees 20' Sagittarius. This is the start of the final part of the Soul's mission towards finding the answers that will lead to his breaking away from the cycles of life and death. This is one of the most difficult Nakshatra for planets to be situated in specially the Moon. The deity that rules Mula is Nittriti, the goddess of death and destruction. This personifies the destruction of the material sheaths and the foundation on which the spiritual enfoldment can be undertaken. The pain experienced by the influence of Mula changes the personality. Attachment to the lower nature and material tendencies have to be severed so that a new spiritual beginning can happen. This is the Nakshatra of initiation towards spiritual realisation. Ketu fulfills it's role as Moksha karaka by arousing the soul towards it's ultimate destination. Mula means root and it also is Muladhara chakra (Base Chakra) where the Kundalini power lies dormant and has to be activated. Ketu rules this and Rahu with it's rulership of Shatabishak- the Crown Chakra indicate the real spiritual insight provided by the nodes. At times they create powerful negativity to focus your mind towards the absolute knowledge.
The quarters of Ketu's Nakshatras are ruled by Mars, Venus, Gemini and the Moon. Mars is courage, Venus- the guide to material fulfilment, Mercury the pure intellect and Moon, the emotional Mind. The signs these planets rule are Aries, Taurus, Gemini and Cancer- the four sign that lead the soul towards experiencing the life on earth. Each pada (quarter) represents the ninth harmonic of the natal chart. Together these four signs represent the beginning stages of spiritual development. As the Ketu Nakshatras represent a point in cycle of life where we have to move towards the divine mission of the soul. They always indicate a beginning and an ending at two different levels. Aries is about discovery of new ideas and the courage to explore them. Taurus is where we nurture the creative potential of our new beginnings. Gemini develops the mind and the recognition of time, space, the working of the universal law. Cancer makes time and space possible. It is ruled by the Moon and Water which also leads us towards purification of mind and harmonising the spiritual and the material. The stages of the soul's journey are different in Ashwini (Mars) Magha (Leo) and Mula (Sagittarius) the underlying urge, represented by the quarters, is still the same- to evolve. The ending of one way of life and the beginning of another.
Kal Sarpa Yoga
Kala Sarpa Yoga is formed when Rahu Ketu hem in the planets in the natal chart i.e. if Rahu is 10 degrees Leo and Ketu 10 degrees Aquarius and all the planets are within these degrees, either from Leo to Aquarius or Aquarius to Leo (Vedic Astrology does not use the outer planets Uranus, Neptune and Pluto). For this yoga to be complete, no planet should conjunct Rahu or Ketu. It restricts completely any indications of the charts. However capable the person, his life is impeded due to past Karma. Important lessons have to be faced in this life, where no amount of effort is rewarded, obstacles are encountered at every junction for inexplicable reasons.
The Yoga does not suggest either success or failure, but a person caught up in Karmic forces so great that they restrict his/ her destiny. It acts mysteriously, without other indications in the birth Chart. A heavy price is paid for past Karma in this life. Understanding and counter- acting the effects of Kala Sarpa Yoga needs a person to move towards his higher self. As Rahu and Ketu act on the inner self, the need to understand the psychic implications and the inner blocks created by this combination is important.
Transits
To judge the transits of Rahu Ketu we have to look at the planets they conjunct during their transit. The Sun and Moon being the most important planets. In 1998 when Rahu Ketu are transiting through the Leo Aquarius Axis, people with Leo Sun, Moon, Ascendant and Aquarius Sun, Moon, Ascendant are feeling the transforming effect of Rahu Ketu. The transit of Rahu Ketu gives clues to their unpredictability. They normal travel in a retrograde motion, the opposite to other planets. They will suddenly go direct and backwards again, representing the churning process. They can churn up your life, your inner emotion, force you to transform yourself, create unpredictability in your life. To know exactly how powerful their influence will be, you will have to study the eclipses. If the eclipses are taking place within 1to 2 degrees of your natal planets then they will be indicating a time for change. Here it is important to remember that the eclipses work on a psychological level, some of these influence may not be immediately obvious but will reveal themselves in time.
The transit of Rahu also needs to be seen through their Dashas- planetary cycles. They are each assigned a Mahadasha. Rahu has an 18 year period and Ketu a 7 years period. They also have sub- periods in planetary cycles of other planets through which they exercise their power and influence. Whenever the life cycles come into our life they have the overall control over factors which dictate what we are going to be doing.
(Written by Komilla)
Harmonize your life astrologically
“Astrology is an ancient Psychology”? The psychic astrologers are believed to communicate directly with the different planets. When we listen to the message of the planets, we can live a life of balance and harmony, just by tuning in to the rhythm of the planets which rule our lives.So,when we combine the overall message of the various planets
Let us start with the ruling planet that is the Sun. According to the astrology, the planet Sun demands from a kind of self-love, the egocentric love for the self. Besides this, the Sun is the royal planet amongst all the other planets and that is why it asks us to feel the same royalty. It wants us to feel like “the King of my own sphere. “ But what people often miss is the fact that the Sun also represents the Soul. Soul is that essential part of a human being that lives from one lifetime to another. Therefore, it is very necessary to be in touch with one’s Soul and as the Sun dominates the entire solar system, we should let our Soul dominate or lives.
The next on the list is the Moon. Moon represents a number of things at a time – the emotions, the mind and the entire feelings. It is very important for a human being to be in touch with the innermost feelings the level of finest feeling. What is that teaches us everything about the “Relative” life? Some people take it as the Absolute Self but instead of it, it is the first manifestation of the individual selves that is the ground rock of any individual’s essence. This helps us decide what is wrong and what is right. There is a Divine Voice within which we need to listen carefully. Here, by the innermost feelings I do not mean the crude emotions such as gluttony, arrogance, greed, lust or anger. These are nothing but mental junk and as soon as a person indulges in them, he/she is sure to be ruined. So, better do not allow these crude emotions to empower your decisions.
Mars is the planet that forces us to indulge in action. When you read the Bhagavad-Gita, you find Lord Krishna talking about the need of action. One has to be brave, strong and always a warrior. This does not at all refer to the physical strength or physical fight. The courage here refers to the courage of one’s convictions. One needs to act upon the thoughts. Do not just be a thinker, be a doer as well. You have to be useful for others so be active. Have this affirmation that God is with you. Trust yourself and your God and do what needs to be done. Inaction is worse than a wrong action.
Mercury, on the other hand, wants us to have fun and play. It asks from the individual to dance to his/her own tune. You should follow your heart, whatever gives you the greatest joy indulge in that. Moreover, Mercury is a talkative planet. It loves to schmooze, calculate, improvise, and make deals and talk. So, play!
The grandest of all the planets is Jupiter and it represents wisdom – religion, Law, philosophy, higher education, raising children and the Guru. Without the wisdom of the Jupiter, the fun, money and sex will turn us into mere animals. We are divine beings and we need to pray study and meditate as well and this is what Jupiter asks us to do. In addition, it is considered the most benevolent planet. When you surrender to its energy, you are sure to be benefited from it. You will get an inner balance and all the other skills required for a happy life. So, do not ignore Jupiter at all.
Next is Venus, which stands for all the greatest sensual enjoyments of life such as art, beauty, refinement, music, sex, and all other worldly sumptuousness. And this what makes her one of the most loved by all. Venus has a rule over things like fancy furniture and clothes and cars and also diamonds. But one should not just consider the lower aspects of Venus because then one might get sick of the venereal disease. According to me, Venus does stand for beauty, creativity and refinement as well. It demands 3 hours of pure creativity per week.
Saturn is considered to be a planet of work but I think it represents steadiness and discipline at its deepest level. If a person is disciplined in 3 areas he/she will be blessed by Saturn . It is 4 then Saturn will shower huge blessings on that person. The area in which one’s heart is one blessing will tend to manifest in that very area. Everybody resents Saturn because of his outer face but when one knows about the inner side, one gets to know he is a good guy! Saturn is the main planet of Karma. So, it is not just about work at all.
The next is Rahu, which demands from us an embracement of the foreign. This planet represents obsession as such. It asks us to accept the fact that we all are obsessed of some thing or the other and go for the useful things. We should be obsessed of success, career, or even accumulating knowledge. The obsession can be beneficial if obsessed for healthy things.
Ketu is similar to Rahu. It wants our Soul! It demands from us to know our Soul and let it be the ruler of our lives. In this age, this planet that the human being has least come to terms with. We should indulge in prayers, meditation or charity- something that can benefit the inner self – the Soul. Although, it will not enrich our bank balance but it will enrich our inner selves and that is the most important part of an individual. Therefore, we should take into consideration the importance of our Soul.
The psychic astrologers believe that on an average you need to give at least 3 hours per week to the qualities typified by each of the planets.
In a nutshell....
Sun: You need to spend time to commune with the inner self and celebrate the Divine self within.
Moon: You need to engage yourself in those very activities that can nourish the finest feeling level.
Mars: You need to exercise. Turn your thoughts into action. Taking actions is important.
Mercury: You need to have fun in life but in a manner that will enrich your intellectual.Jupiter: You need to do something wise. It could be to spend time in honoring the cultural or family’s traditions or to learn the teachings of the wise. You can also go for those wise books that can teach you how to live!
Venus: You need to spend time not just on beauty but also creativity.
Saturn: You need to have time for joyful discipline. A quote can help you for this which goes like “If it's boring to do something once, do it twice. If it is still boring, do it 4 times. If still boring, do it 8 times."
Rahu: You need to learn how to manage the obsessive tendencies so as to turn into Divine Obsession which is beneficial.
Ketu: You should let your Soul rule your entire life.
Author can be contacted at shankerstudy@gmail.com
Let us start with the ruling planet that is the Sun. According to the astrology, the planet Sun demands from a kind of self-love, the egocentric love for the self. Besides this, the Sun is the royal planet amongst all the other planets and that is why it asks us to feel the same royalty. It wants us to feel like “the King of my own sphere. “ But what people often miss is the fact that the Sun also represents the Soul. Soul is that essential part of a human being that lives from one lifetime to another. Therefore, it is very necessary to be in touch with one’s Soul and as the Sun dominates the entire solar system, we should let our Soul dominate or lives.
The next on the list is the Moon. Moon represents a number of things at a time – the emotions, the mind and the entire feelings. It is very important for a human being to be in touch with the innermost feelings the level of finest feeling. What is that teaches us everything about the “Relative” life? Some people take it as the Absolute Self but instead of it, it is the first manifestation of the individual selves that is the ground rock of any individual’s essence. This helps us decide what is wrong and what is right. There is a Divine Voice within which we need to listen carefully. Here, by the innermost feelings I do not mean the crude emotions such as gluttony, arrogance, greed, lust or anger. These are nothing but mental junk and as soon as a person indulges in them, he/she is sure to be ruined. So, better do not allow these crude emotions to empower your decisions.
Mars is the planet that forces us to indulge in action. When you read the Bhagavad-Gita, you find Lord Krishna talking about the need of action. One has to be brave, strong and always a warrior. This does not at all refer to the physical strength or physical fight. The courage here refers to the courage of one’s convictions. One needs to act upon the thoughts. Do not just be a thinker, be a doer as well. You have to be useful for others so be active. Have this affirmation that God is with you. Trust yourself and your God and do what needs to be done. Inaction is worse than a wrong action.
Mercury, on the other hand, wants us to have fun and play. It asks from the individual to dance to his/her own tune. You should follow your heart, whatever gives you the greatest joy indulge in that. Moreover, Mercury is a talkative planet. It loves to schmooze, calculate, improvise, and make deals and talk. So, play!
The grandest of all the planets is Jupiter and it represents wisdom – religion, Law, philosophy, higher education, raising children and the Guru. Without the wisdom of the Jupiter, the fun, money and sex will turn us into mere animals. We are divine beings and we need to pray study and meditate as well and this is what Jupiter asks us to do. In addition, it is considered the most benevolent planet. When you surrender to its energy, you are sure to be benefited from it. You will get an inner balance and all the other skills required for a happy life. So, do not ignore Jupiter at all.
Next is Venus, which stands for all the greatest sensual enjoyments of life such as art, beauty, refinement, music, sex, and all other worldly sumptuousness. And this what makes her one of the most loved by all. Venus has a rule over things like fancy furniture and clothes and cars and also diamonds. But one should not just consider the lower aspects of Venus because then one might get sick of the venereal disease. According to me, Venus does stand for beauty, creativity and refinement as well. It demands 3 hours of pure creativity per week.
Saturn is considered to be a planet of work but I think it represents steadiness and discipline at its deepest level. If a person is disciplined in 3 areas he/she will be blessed by Saturn . It is 4 then Saturn will shower huge blessings on that person. The area in which one’s heart is one blessing will tend to manifest in that very area. Everybody resents Saturn because of his outer face but when one knows about the inner side, one gets to know he is a good guy! Saturn is the main planet of Karma. So, it is not just about work at all.
The next is Rahu, which demands from us an embracement of the foreign. This planet represents obsession as such. It asks us to accept the fact that we all are obsessed of some thing or the other and go for the useful things. We should be obsessed of success, career, or even accumulating knowledge. The obsession can be beneficial if obsessed for healthy things.
Ketu is similar to Rahu. It wants our Soul! It demands from us to know our Soul and let it be the ruler of our lives. In this age, this planet that the human being has least come to terms with. We should indulge in prayers, meditation or charity- something that can benefit the inner self – the Soul. Although, it will not enrich our bank balance but it will enrich our inner selves and that is the most important part of an individual. Therefore, we should take into consideration the importance of our Soul.
The psychic astrologers believe that on an average you need to give at least 3 hours per week to the qualities typified by each of the planets.
In a nutshell....
Sun: You need to spend time to commune with the inner self and celebrate the Divine self within.
Moon: You need to engage yourself in those very activities that can nourish the finest feeling level.
Mars: You need to exercise. Turn your thoughts into action. Taking actions is important.
Mercury: You need to have fun in life but in a manner that will enrich your intellectual.Jupiter: You need to do something wise. It could be to spend time in honoring the cultural or family’s traditions or to learn the teachings of the wise. You can also go for those wise books that can teach you how to live!
Venus: You need to spend time not just on beauty but also creativity.
Saturn: You need to have time for joyful discipline. A quote can help you for this which goes like “If it's boring to do something once, do it twice. If it is still boring, do it 4 times. If still boring, do it 8 times."
Rahu: You need to learn how to manage the obsessive tendencies so as to turn into Divine Obsession which is beneficial.
Ketu: You should let your Soul rule your entire life.
Author can be contacted at shankerstudy@gmail.com
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