Note: In this article, all planetary positions are in the sidereal Zodiac, which is currently 23 degrees 49 minutes and 30 seconds behind the Tropical Zodiac. Fixed stars or lunar mansions are referred to as nakshatras.
- In our natal charts, we need to understand Rahu and Ketu.
- Rahu’s Vedic Hymn
- The Nakshatras and Rahu
- Ketu’s Vedic Hymn
- The Nakshatras and Ketu
The Moon’s Nodes are referred to as Rahu Ketu. The North Node is Rahu, and the South Node is Ketu. They are ecliptic points on which the Moon is aligned with the Sun and the Earth. They show the exact point of harmony with the Sun, the Earth, and the Moon, the three most essential factors in our lives. In the unfolding of individual awareness, this link is crucial.
Their ability to create eclipses is linked to their role as Karmic markers in our lives. During the Full Moon and New Moon, eclipses occur in the area of Rahu Ketu. (The Solar eclipse occurs when the New Moon is +/- 18 degrees from Rahu Ketu.) The Lunar eclipse occurs when the full Moon is +/- 11 degrees 15′ from the nodal location.) They serve an important role in darkening our vision in order to bring in new light since they symbolically shade the Sun (awareness) and the Moon (mind). They are concerned with death, rebirth, transformation, and regeneration. The light from the Luminaries is dimmed during eclipses. The energies that are formed have a strong psychic quality to them, and they are full of new information and occult power. The period following the eclipse is regarded as the Sun and Moon’s rebirth. The role of Rahu and Ketu in this strong alignment of the Sun, Moon, and Earth makes them the ultimate destiny controllers.
One of Vedic Astrology’s distinguishing traits is the prominence accorded to Rahu Ketu. To emphasize their significance and the attention placed on eclipses, they have been awarded the rank of Planets. They are referred to as Chayya Grahas (shadow planets). They are devoid of substance and actual existence. Despite this, their influence is powerful and spiritually significant. They work in tandem 180 degrees apart, two opposed points in the zodiac with the task of churning our lives to reveal latent potential and wisdom. They operate on a psychological level, in keeping with their enigmatic character. Because they are primarily concerned with our emotional constitution, it is always difficult to assess their impact. They have an intrinsic impact on us. We have no idea what is going on around us at the time.
The concept of the Soul’s journey through different lifetimes is important to Vedic Astrology. The soul’s ultimate objective is to end the cycle of life and death. Various lifetimes, like beads on a necklace, are strung together to make a necklace, each one unique but linked by an invisible thread. Rahu and Ketu are the unseen threads. The soul’s aim in this life is to fulfill his karma, eliminate the illusions of the materialistic existence, and progress toward self-realisation. The mind is still and at peace on the astral worlds, where pleasure and anguish have no potential to hurt. The positions of Rahu and Ketu symbolize the soul’s path through this life and its relationship to everlasting life. Rahu deals with the future, while Ketu deals with the past.
The five impulses that hold us committed to the materialistic goal of life are Kaam (desire, passions), Krodh (Anger), Madh (anger), and Kaam (desire, passions) (intoxicants- drugs, alcohol etc) Matsaya, Moh (Attachment), Lobh (Greed), and Moh (Attachment) (Jealousy). Rather than letting our instincts to govern us, we must learn to control them. Rahu and Ketu both have the capacity to keep our minds focused on our instincts by magnifying or obscuring or suppressing them. We can’t break free from our lower selves, therefore we’re stuck in a circle of sadness and dissatisfaction. We are born again and again to experience the joys and sorrows of earthly existence until we recognize them for what they are: illusions. We are frightened, on some level, that if we give up these impulses, we would lose out. We can grow spiritually if we comprehend the notion of letting go, enjoying what life has to offer without being attached. Rahu Ketu is concerned with our inner conflict, the moral and societal choices we must make on a regular basis, and our inner conflicts.
In This Article...
The Mythology
Rahu Ketu is associated with many myths and stories. Rahu Ketu as the Naga Vasuki, the ruler of Patala Loka, is the most well-known (the nether regions of the earth). Nagas are serpents with a lot of secret knowledge and wisdom, according to Vedic literature. The gods and demons were fighting for control of the cosmos, and at the center of it all was the ocean, which was being churned in search of buried treasures and Amrita, the elixir of immortality. Vasuki was instrumental in the gods’ purpose. He was the rod used by the gods to churn the ocean, which was bound around the spiritual peak Mandara.
When the Amrita was discovered, the gods desired to keep it for themselves, believing that the demons would misuse it. Vasuki’s instincts were for personal glorification and financial delight rather than global benefit because he was a demon. (Sacrificing oneself for the sake of others is regarded as a divine impulse.) Vasuki was smarter than the other demons, and he refused to be distracted by the gods. He drank the immortality nectar in secret. The Sun and Moon complained to Lord Vishnu, the Universe’s creator, who was enraged by the trickery. He threw the Sudharshan Chakra at Vasuki and sliced him in half out of rage. Vasuki was eternal after drinking the Amrita and hence could not be slain. He stayed in the sky as Rahu (the head) and Ketu (the lower half), serving as a constant reminder to the other planets (gods) of the darker side of existence that humans must overcome in our quest for immortality.
Because they informed Lord Vishnu about the Sun and Moon, Rahu and Ketu are regarded tremendous adversaries of the Sun and Moon. During eclipses, they metaphorically consume the two lights. Rahu Ketu are the most potent influences in the Zodiac because of their ability to dim the Sun and Moon. During eclipses, Rahu Ketu obscures the Sun, which orbits the other planets and the solar system, as well as the Moon, which governs life on Earth. Rahu Ketu represents the Universal Law, which everyone, including the Sun and Moon, must follow.
This allegory must be interpreted as a metaphor for life. The Gods were unable to discover the secret of immortality without the assistance of Vasuki (Rahu Ketu). Similarly, we as humans cannot realize our better selves unless we understand Rahu and Ketu’s lessons. They symbolize the darker half of our nature that we must overcome. The churning of our inner emotions is like to the churning of the ocean. There are many treasures as well as poisons and unpleasant things in this water. We’ve learned to distinguish the valuable from the dross, and we’ve finally discovered Amrita, the key to immortality or ultimate bliss. The struggle between our commitment to materialistic successes (which offers us fleeting satisfaction with no actual basis, Rahu’s domain) and spiritual emancipation (finding peace and tranquillity that is eternal and everlasting) (Ketu is the Moksha karaka significator for spiritual realisation). In the Amrita manthan, the gods required Vasuki’s assistance, and we, too, require the knowledge offered by the wise nodes to provide direction.
Understanding Rahu and Ketu in our Natal Charts
To comprehend Rahu Ketu’s significance in our horoscope, we must first comprehend their shadow nature. When dealing with the influence of the nodes, this is the most crucial issue to consider. Because they are simply Zodiac points, they are unable to have an effect on their own. Because they lack substance, the nodes take on the features of their dispositor. It’s crucial to pay attention to the depositor’s sign, position, and positioning. It’s vital to remember that, while the nodes are impacted by their depositor, the depositor also takes the nodes’ influence forward. Rahu-basic Ketu’s effects are influenced by their position in your horoscope. The signs/houses in which they are put. The things they get and the things they throw away. Also, if they are conjunct with another planet (a planet in the same house is called conjunct in Vedic Astrology). The stronger the influence, the closer the conjunction is.) they will cancel it out. If Rahu is in conjunction with Mars, for example, the aspect of Mars as well as the aspect of its depositor will be thrown.
The personal eclipse points are Rahu and Ketu. As a result, these are regions where you must work out your Karma, both past and future. They are our karmic obligations. We must learn to see beyond the temporary darkness represented by Rahu Ketu. They bring to light the negative aspects of our nature that we must overcome in order to progress spiritually. Because they work on a psychological level, it’s difficult to pinpoint their impact. They are the life axis that shows the path of spiritual development from past lives (Ketu) to the future (Rahu). True understanding of life requires knowledge of both the past and the present. The past molds our current personalities, as well as the negative and positive Karma we will encounter. It casts a pall over our minds as to how we will approach the present. Because the future is constantly unpredictable, it can appear dark and entail anxiety and uncertainty. To be able to face the future without fear, we must first come to terms with our past. Rahu is pointing in this direction, but Ketu is sometimes blocking it due to our past acts.
Rahu Ketu has two functions, one in the mundane world and the other in the spiritual realm, but they are inextricably linked, much like their shadowy nature. Their actions in the physical sphere are intended to alter our perceptions of what we want and desire. For individuals on the path to Moksha and spiritual enlightenment, what is darkness to a person mired in materialistic goals can be great spiritual energy.
The nodes are always serving conflicting objectives, such as good and bad, a lot and nothing, and give and take. Rahu provides, and Ketu returns. They don’t have any hard and fast rules. They come in a rainbow of colors, and they can bring you to the summit of spiritual achievement or the zenith of financial success, or vice versa. They have the potential to produce unexpected outcomes. You should never make predictions based on certainty.
They have the ability to instill fear of the unknown. They have the ability to produce unexpected outcomes.
According to legend, Rahu Ketu always takes back what he gives since he has an unique motive for fulfilling your requests. Realize that what they provide you isn’t always what you desire once you’ve gotten it. They draw attention to our own discontent.
RAHU
‘Rahu is snake-shaped, born of a lioness, and a Sun and Moon devourer.’
The head of the cosmic serpent is Rahu. Rahu is described as snake-shaped in this song. Snakes play a significant role in Vedic mythology. Lord Vishnu’s throne was Shesh Naga – the Eternal Serpent, while Lord Shiva wears a snake around his neck. Shesh Naga is the cosmic seed that represents the cycles of time and space. The Nagas are snake-like in appearance, although they are tall. Nagas are highly advanced creatures. They are smart, yet their knowledge can be used for good or evil. The Naga’s skin is shed, symbolizing transformation and rebirth. Snakes in Vedic literature serve as a reminder of one’s mortality.
When Rahu eclipses the luminaries, it is known as the ‘devouring of the Sun and Moon.’ This demonstrates the critical role Rahu plays in altering the direction of our lives. The Sun and Moon are Royal Planets, and the universe and life on Earth revolve around them. However, Rahu has the ability to dim this light, and as a result, it has influence over the life cycle. When the Sun and Moon are eclipsed, they go through a process of regeneration, transformation, and death.
Rahu tempts people away from their Dharmic previous paths, leading them towards a path of self-destruction. However, Rahu has a very specific reason for doing so. It wants you to learn, taste, and feel everything so that you might turn a fresh leaf on the path of self-realisation and reach true enlightenment as a result of the full satiation of your senses. On a physical level, Rahu gives you an unquenchable desire to succeed and conquer. When you reach the height of achievement, you realize that your accomplishments have not brought you satisfaction because you were chasing an illusion. Many cults in India preach satiation of all mundane and carnal desires so that we can acquire the essential lesson that satiation of all cravings does not provide true happiness.
Rahu behaves similarly to Saturn. It deals with narcotics, poisons, egoism, power struggles, and secret knowledge.
The element of Rahu is air. It covers all aspects of air travel, air accidents, aviation, and pilots, among other things. Students of Astrology, metaphysical knowledge, witchcraft, skin illnesses, small pox, deception, politics, political maneuvering, inventions, scientists, execution, sicknesses, disillusionment, and so on are all associated with Rahu.
Rahu and the Nakshatras
Rahu Ketu is the ruler of the planets Rahu and Ketu. Each has three Nakshtras (fixed stars). Rahu controls Ardra (6 40′ to 20 00′ Gemini), Swati (6 40′ to 20 00′ Libra), and Shatabishak (6 40′ to 20 00′ Aquarius), all of which are in the Air triplicity. Intellectualism, pleasure, and righteous behavior are represented by Mercury, Venus, and Saturn. In all of these areas, Rahu has the ability to bestow.
Rahu represents the greatest thinking as the ruler of the fixed star Ardra (6 degrees 40′ to 20 degrees 00′ Gemini). Ardra is the Nakshatra where we begin our study about nature’s law. Ardra’s zodiac sign is Gemini, which is ruled by Mercury and ranges from 6 degrees 40′ to 20 degrees. On the outer level, there is conflict at Ardra’s cosmic stage, where we are unsatisfied with our current surroundings and seek answers. This can be accomplished through knowledge, the occult, or conversation. Gemini’s dualism as well as Mercury’s heavenly qualities are both present. Ardra’s symbol is either a single diamond or a head, both of which represent ideas, mind, and thinking. Rahu is always associated with unrivaled ambition, and in Ardra it is combined with the ability to learn. Planets in Ardra are inspired to discover more about the occult. Ardra’s reigning Diety is Rudra, the God of Destruction. Shiva takes the shape of Rudra. Rudra’s mission is to eradicate ignorance, therefore he guides consciousness toward knowledge and self-discovery of answers to questions about this manifestation. We begin to study or learn about the Law of Nature at Ardra. When we first grow dissatisfied with the worldly aspect of our existence, we begin to look for ways to broaden our spiritual horizons.
Swati (6 degrees 40′ to 20 degrees 00′ Libra) is Rahu’s second Nakshatra. The level of the soul’s involvement in Materialism is indicated by the planets in Swati. The Sun, the soul’s indicator in our chart, is debilitated here, while Saturn, the Zodiac’s worker, is exalted. Swati’s impulse is all about accumulating wealth. Venus is the planet that governs a person’s earthly wants. When combined with Rahu, it intensifies the desire for achievement, money, and finance. Many millionaires have their Moon or Saturn in Swati when they are born. Vayu is the reigning diety (air). Coral is the symbol. Because this Nakshatra is in Libra, it signifies that full immersion in earthly, materialistic pleasures will result in discontent because the scales will be tipped to one side. When we reach success, we feel empty, alone, and dissatisfied with our accomplishment. Many people search for more success, but the ideal thing to do at this time is to go to your higher self. Libra is a stage of life when we begin to consider the spiritual significance of life after all of our other desires have been satisfied.
The final Nakshatra controlled by Rahu is Shatabishak (6 degrees 40′ to 20 degrees 00′ Aquarius). Saturn rules Aquarius, while Rahu rules the Nakshtra, making for a tough combination in which life must have a purpose and the overall path is based on learning lessons. Rahu has the same effects as Saturn, but on a psychological level. This twofold Saturnine influence on planets positioned here is tough to deal with unless we focus our efforts on helping humanity. Both Rahu and Saturn are involved with changing our life’s purpose and providing us with the final solutions. On an internal level, Rahu brings limitations, hurdles, and transformation; on an exterior level, Saturn brings transformation. Shatabishak emphasizes the importance of understanding life’s last lessons as well as one’s responsibility to others. Shatabishak is where the Kundalini flowers and we gain complete awareness of our consciousness. Its symbol is the thousand petalled flower. The Sahasara (Crown) Chakra is activated at this point in life. As the instructor of cosmic law, Rahu unleashes its full power. When the Moon is in Shatabishak, its materialistic impulses fade away, and we begin to focus on the actual meaning of life. We’re ready to go on to the next level of spiritual growth.
Jupiter and Saturn, the significators of spirituality and occult initiation, dominate all four quarters of Rahu’s Nakshatra. Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, and Pisces are the signs of the zodiac. Each pada (quarter) reflects the natal chart’s ninth harmonic. These four signals together reflect the ultimate stages of spiritual growth. These padas also imply that life on an internal level remains the same, since the Rahu Nakshatras symbolize a time in the cycle of life where we are beginning to change. Sagittarius represents the stage of development when man learns to control his base emotions and transitions from animal to human, Capricorn represents the stage of development when we learn about our duties and responsibilities to others, and Aquarius represents the stage of development when we have complete knowledge. We can make the last shift in Pisces, sowing the seeds for future growth. So, while the stages of the soul’s journey alter in Ardra (Gemini), Swati (Libra), and Shatabishak (Aquarius), the underlying need to evolve, represented by the quarters, remains the same. The end of one way of life and the start of a new one.
Vedic Hymn to Ketu
‘Decorated with silk, flowers, garlands, sandal paste, and a variegated-colored umbrella, born of Jaimini’s family during the Abhijit Nakshatra…’
The major distinction between Rahu and Ketu is shown in this hymn: Rahu is black in color, whilst Ketu is variegated in color. As a result, it has the ability to throw a light on you unexpectedly, bringing illumination.
Ketu was born into the Jaimini family, who practiced Mimasa philosophy. Their principal interest was the right interpretation of Vedic ceremonies and the resolution of any Vedic textual disputes. Ketu himself is guiding people toward meditation on the nature of creation, intuition, genuine understanding of the universe, and the soul’s final liberation, or Moksha.
Ketu puts a lot of obstacles in your way. It creates obstacles, traffic jams, and rocks in your life’s journey. It creates discomfort. It wishes to alter your mental state. You learn to let go of your excess Karma from the past. Travel lightly through your existence so that you may recognize which aspects of your life need to be addressed and which should be ignored. Those who are unable to harness Ketu’s strength or comprehend its karmic path may be doomed to a life of misery. Standing in the way of Ketu’s might can be challenging at times. We must embrace and comprehend the divine plan that is a part of our fate, and Ketu is working to instill in you the understanding that will lead to true illumination and honor. The effect of Ketu difficulties is similar to going through a fire rite, where one emerges stronger and more powerful to face the problems that are thrown at us.
Ketu, like Mars, will act in a Mars-like manner, as will its dispositor. Its fiery character denotes mishaps or injuries, particularly those caused by fire.
In the planetary life cycle, Ketu dominates 7 years. Ketu’s stories are always stingy. As a result, the Ketu Maha Dasha conclusion has to be unpredictable.
Dhwajah-flag is Ketu’s name. Its honorable affiliation with a planet has the power to enhance its capabilitiesfor better or worsefor lotteries and windfalls. When Ketu is combined with a benefic, you can get more than you bargained for.
Ascetics, assassinations, trouble with cats, calirvoyance, contemplation, desire for knowledge, deep pondering, captivity, poison, intrigues, magical powers, poverty, mysticism, and so on are some of the meanings of Ketu.
