here are 3 ways in which planets give their effects in Signs:

1) Planets give the effects of the Rasi (Sign) in which they are deposited.
2) Planets give the effects of the number of signs they are away from their Moolatrikona sign. The Moolatrikona
sign is usually the masculine (Air or Fire) sign that a planet rules, except in the case of the Moon and
Mercury. The Sun only rules Leo, so naturally Leo is the Moolatrikona sign of the Sun. Moolatrikona means
root trine and is a source of tremendous power to the planet, second only to its exalted position. The planet
derives its power from its Moolatrikona sign.
3) Planets give the effects of the number of signs counted from the planet to the sign they rule, usually the
feminine sign, except in the case of the Sun, which only rules Leo.
To understand this concept, it is very important to realize the difference between male and female
energies. Each planet, except for Sun and Moon rule a male and female sign. The masculine energy is dynamic
and as said elsewhere on this site, it goes from a point of concentration to dissipation. On the other hand, female
energy is receptive, going from dissipation to concentration. Therefore, the energy BEGINS from the masculine
sign, which is the Moolatrikona sign, except of course for Sun, Moon and Mercury. The energy is then
RECEIVED by the female sign from the position of the planet.
To illustrate: If Venus is in Aquarius, it will give the character effects of Aquarius, but also the effects of a 5th
house Venus, because Aquarius is the 5th house counted from Libra, Venus Moolatrikona sign. AND, it will
give the effects of a 4th house Venus, because Taurus, the other sign of Venus rulership, is the 4th house from
Aquarius. So a person with Venus in Aquarius will have tremendous creative intelligence when it comes to ne
arts or performing arts, they will love to decorate their home, they will have a natural inclination to feel good
about themselves and grounded. They will have a kind and tender heart (4th house) and will forgive easily, all
other factors equal. They will like beautiful vehicles. All of the inclinations of a 4th and 5th house Venus will be
applied to the Venus in Aquarius.
The information given is derived not from the Signs themselves, which is explained elsewhere on this site in my
article on the Signs, but from the planets position from its Moolatrikona sign and the even (female) sign it
rules. Below each description is given two examples from the Classical texts, Saravali and Brihat Jataka. These
classical descriptions may appear very black and white to the reader and must not be taken literally. In some
cases, they do literally apply, but in most there is only some truth. These classical descriptions often just take
into account whether the Sign the planet is posited within is ruled by a benec or a malec.
The Sun is the Soul, Inspiration and Truth in the Astrological Chart.
The following descriptions are based upon the moolatrikona Sign of the planet and in applicable cases, the
additional sign ruled by the planet. There is commentary by the ancient texts, Saravali and Brihat Jataka, after
each description. Please take these with a grain of salt because they are mainly based upon the planetary
rulership of the Sign being benec or malec.
Sun in Aries: Aries is a moveable, Fire Sign. For the characteristics of Aries, see my article on the Signs. In
addition to Arian characteristics, the native with Sun in Aries will have the motivation to inspire and teach with
their natural charisma. They will also want to roam to spread their knowledge and ideas and to seek and
dispense Truth. This is because Aries is the 9th sign counted from Leo, the only sign ruled by the Sun. The
motivating, manifesting principle is based upon 9th house matters with the position of the Sun in Aries. How
will the native perpetuate their creative ability into the world? They will do so by teaching others and roaming
about, often to foreign or far away lands. He or she will follow a denite purpose and will naturally feel that
purposeful action will further their goals. A solid philosophy of life is also another way a Sun in Aries person
will feel that they are connected to the Truth. Counting from Aries to Leo, we get 5. 5th house connotations will
be the way the Sun in Aries person will receive inspiration, vitality and Truth. The person will be a pioneer and
need room to develop their creative ideas. He or she will derive pleasure and inspiration from learning and
sports. The native with Sun in Aries will be inspired by their children and creations. The Sun as power will
come from manifested ideas. The more the Aries creates, the more they are coming from Truth, which is the
Sun. The Sun being the only planet that produces light is representative of the Truth.
One who has the Sun in Aries will comment on the meanings of Sastras, be famous in arts, fond of war, erce,
attached to his duty, fond of roaming, will have strong bones, be good in deeds, will do valorous acts, will be
subjected to bilious and bloody disorders, be splendorous and strong. The native will also become a king.
Saravali, Chapter 22, verse 2-3- Kalyana Varma
One having the Sun in Aries: is famous, clever, widely traveled with loss of wealth, earns through weapons. This
is so when the Sun occupies a point other than its exaltation degree,(10th) in Aries (in case it occupies the
exaltation degree, the trait of lesser value such as loss of wealth etc. shall not be there) Brihat Jataka,
Chapter 18, verse 1 Varahamihira
Sun in Taurus: Taurus is a xed, Earth sign. For the characteristics of Taurus, see my article on the Signs. Sun
in Taurus will have 10th and 4th house connotations. Counting from Leo, Taurus is 10 houses away. So, the Sun
in Taurus person will be extremely motivated to advance their career and position within society. Their own
personal Truth and inspiration will be furthered this way. They will also gravitate to taking on more and more
responsibility and to acquiring power. The Sun as the only self-perpetuating light will give these allow these
natives to live out their inspiration through 10th house matters. The way a Sun in Taurus person receives
inspiration is through their home life and inner selves. They receive Truth through feeling grounded and through
their own emotions. Having a xed home life and stable personal life is directly correlated to their success,
power and responsibility they will project into the outer world.
The position of the Sun in the sign Taurus indicates that the native will have troubles from disease of face and
eyes, will endure difculties, will have an emaciated body, will not have many sons, will be beautiful, fortunate,
nice, handsome, etc, will possess decorum, be wise, will hate barren (or conned) women, be endowed with
eatables, garlands, robes and scents, will have knowledge of singing, playing musical instruments and dancing
and will face risk from water. Saravali, Chapter 22, verse 1011 Kalyana Varma
One having Sun in Taurus: earns his living through cloth scented goods, general merchandise. He is opposed to
women, is efcient is singing and instrumental music. Brihat Jataka, Chapter 18, verse 1 Varahamihira
Sun in Gemini: Gemini is a dual Air Sign. For characteristics of Gemini, see my article on the Signs. Sun in
Gemini will have 11th and 3rd house connotations. Counting from Leo, Gemini is 11 houses away. Sun in
Gemini people will project their inspiration and Truth through the medium of groups and societies. Friends and
social life will give them ample opportunity to distribute their inspiration and vitality. They will receive
inspiration and nd Truth through communications, travels, healthy competition and their own will power. Leo
is 3 houses away from Gemini.
One who has the Sun in Gemini will be a scholar, will be sweet in speech, affectionate (particularly to ones
offspring), will have good conduct, will be expert in profane knowledge (derived from worldly experience which
is opposite I.e. knowledge of Brahman or Supreme Spirit), and also in Sastras, be exceedingly afuent, liberal
skillful, be an astrologer, be mediocre in appearance, will have two mothers, be fortunate and modest.
Saravali, Chapter 22, verse 1819 Kalyana Varma
One having Sun in Gemini: is learned, knows Astrology and is wealthy. Brihat Jataka, Chapter 18, verse 1
Varahamihira
Sun in Cancer: Cancer is a moveable, Water Sign. For the characteristics of Cancer, see my article on the
Signs. Sun in Cancer will have 12th and 2nd house connotations. Counting from Leo, Cancer is 12 houses
away. Sun in Cancer people will project their Truth and inspiration through the medium of their subconscious. It
is somewhat of a paradox, as the Suns energy will be taken out of the world and put rmly into the realm of
secrecy, dreams, the subconscious and sexual pleasures, all 12th house connotations. Sun in Cancer natives will
have a natural inclination to get away from it all and meditate, pray or just reach alternate realities. There may
be some frustration in expressing their inner Truth and inspirations to others and they may lack vitality. They
will receive inspiration and nd Truth through the medium of their wealth, self-worth and immediate
family. Also, sensual pleasures like food, listening to music and all around comfort will inspire them. Counting
from Cancer, Leo is 2 houses away.
The Sun in Cancer indicates that the native will not be steady in mind in respect of his undertakings, will be
famous by virtue of his royal qualities, will hate his own men, be unfortunate in respect of wife (or have an ugly
wife unless full Moon), will be good looking himself, be troubled due to imbalances of phlegm and bile, be
distressed on account of labor (i.e. to hard work), will like intoxicants, follow virtuous principles, be honorable,
will be eloquent, will be a geographer and a scientist in the matter of atmosphere/space, will be very steady,
and will hate people from paternal side. - Saravali, Chapter 22, verse 2627 Kalyana Varma
One having Sun in Cancer: is erce in temper, without wealth, is engaged in doing jobs for others and spends
his time in troublesome travels and labour. Brihat Jataka, Chapter 18, verse 2 Varahamihira
Sun in Leo: For the characteristics of Leo, please see my article on the sign. Sun in Leo people project and
receive their inspiration and Truth directly from themselves because the moolatrikona of the Sun is Leo and Leo
is the only sign the Sun rules. This gives them a powerful aura and a strong inclination for leadership and a
reputation for being egocentric. They do not rely on any other houses to project or receive their Truth and
consequently, it can appear as if their whole world revolves around themselves and quite literally, it does. They
are vehicles for enormous creative intelligence and inspiration.
If the Sun occupies Leo, the native will destroy his enemies, be given to anger, will perform notable acts, will
wander in forests, hills and fortresses, be enthusiastic, valorous, bright in appearance, will eat meat, esh etc;
and will be formidable. He will be restive, strong in a lasting measure, talkative, be a king, be plentiful in
wealth and be famous. Saravali, Chapter 22, verse 34-35 Kalyana Varma
One having Sun in Leo: is fond of jungles, mountains, cowsheds, is powerful but foolish. Brihat Jataka,
Chapter 18, verse 2 Varahamihira
Sun in Virgo: For the characteristics of Virgo, please see my article on the signs. Sun in Virgo also has 12th and
2nd house connotations, however reversed from those of Sun in Cancer. Sun in Virgo people will project their
inspiration through 2nd house matters and receive inspiration through 12th house matters. They will project
their truth though making things comfortable and caring for their immediate environment. This gives them the
reputation of being fussy. Sun in Virgo will be interested in improving their self-worth through taking care of
themselves and those closest too them. Sun in Virgo people are receiving inspiration and nding their Truth
through self-negation and doubt. They are not really sure where their inspiration is coming from, because it is
originating in the 12th house, so they are doubtful and have a natural humility.
Should the Sun be in Virgo at birth, the person will possess a physique akin to that of a female, be a scholar, be
weak, be an expert writer, be learned and will render service to Gods and elders. He will be expert in repairs of
driven vehicles, will be skillful in Vedas, songs and playing instruments and will speak softly and kindly.
Saravali, Chapter 22, verse 42-43 Kalyana Varma
One having Sun in Virgo: is engaged in writing work, literature, mathematics. He is womanish in appearance.
Brihat Jataka, Chapter 18, verse 2 Varahamihira
Sun in Libra: For the characteristics of Libra, please see my article on the signs. Sun in Libra is projecting
Truth and inspiration through 3rd house connotations and receiving these things through 11th house
connotations. Libra is 3 houses away from Leo, thus, Sun in Libra projects its Truth through communications,
competition and self-will. Sun in Libra is receiving inspiration and its own Truth from friends, groups, societies
and status in ones social circle. Can one now see why the Sun is debilitated in Libra? The Sun, in Vedic
Astrology, represents the Soul. It is the closest to God that a person gets here on Earth. Its power comes from
the Divine, so projecting ones Truth and inspiration, which are divinely given, through the use of self-will,
which is the 3rd house, is at best contradictory and at worst, sacrilege. Truth and Inspiration are completely
independent and not reliant upon the group or peer pressure, however, the Sun in Libra is highly inuenced by
the Other not only as being the natural sign of the other being the 7th sign, but also receiving its inspiration
from ones place in society, which is the 11th house.
If the Sun is in Libra at birth, the native will face frustration, destruction and heavy expenditure, will be intent
on living in foreign places (out of distress), be wicked, mean, be devoid of affection, will live by selling gold and
other metals, be jealous, fond of doing others jobs, will co-habit with others wives, be dirty, will incur royal
contempt and be shameless. - Saravali, Chapter 22, verse 44-45 Kalyana Varma
One having Sun in Libra: Is engaged in preparing liquor, constant traveling, is a goldsmith, involved in
unbecoming deeds. Brihat Jataka, Chapter 18, verse 3 Varahamihira
Sun in Scorpio: For characteristics of Scorpio, please see my article on the signs. Sun in Scorpio is projecting
its inspiration and Truth through the realm of emotions and ones inner life. It is receiving Truth and Inspiration
from ones power, popularity and career. Hence the intensity with which Sun in Scorpio goes about
experiencing its emotions. Emotions and ones moods are receptive states of being. A Sun in Scorpio infuses the
light of Truth into their emotions, giving them sincere intensity. They will also project their truth through their
home life and that of the country in which they live. Often, the Sun in Scorpio person will be patriotic and
proud of his/her family lineage. Leo is 10 houses away from Scorpio, so Sun in Scorpio people will receive
their inspiration through the power they yield in the world. This is a natural 10th house matter. Also, the actions
they perform most of the day, every day, their karma if you will, will serve to give them their own personal
Truth. The 10th house is the karma bhava, this loosely translates as career but it mainly means ones actions that
one performs the most.
The native with the Sun in Scorpio will have an incompatible lust for war, be away from Vedic ((or religious)
path, be a liar, a dunce, will have a base and wicked wife (also means loss of wife), be cruel and be attached to
mean women. He will be irascible, will follow bad course, be a miser, be fond of promoting quarrels, be
troubled by weapons, re and poison, and be unfortunate in respect of parents. Saravali, Chapter 22, verse
46-47 Kalyana Varma
One having Sun in Scorpio: Is cruel, courageous and earns through the sale of poisonous articles. Brihat
Jataka, Chapter 18, verse 3 Varahamihira
Sun in Sagittarius: For the characteristics of Sagittarius, please see my article on the signs. Sagittarius is 5
signs away from Leo, so the Sun in Sagittarius person will project their inspiration and personal Truth through
their creative intelligence, through learning, through children and creations and through sports and
investments. They tend to be highly creative individuals and inspire others through their creations. Whatever
they are learning at the time is reecting their personal Truth. Leo is 9 signs away from Sagittarius. Sun in
Sagittarius people will receive inspiration and Truth through teaching others, through long distance travel and
through philosophy, diving law, and/or religion. Unless there are serious afictions to the Moon and/or 4th
house, these natives are a lot of fun to be around and very dynamic.
If the Sun at birth is in Sagittarius, one will be endowed with wealth, be dear to king, learned, will respect Gods
and Brahmins, be skillful in rendering training in use of weapons and arrows and breeding of elephants, be t
to deal with, be honorable, be always peaceful, be rich, will possess a broad and beautiful physique, be helpful
to relatives, and be energetic. Saravali, Chapter 22, verse 48-49 Kalyana Varma
One having Sun in Sagittarius: Is honored by good people, wealthy, erce, a doctor. Brihat Jataka, Chapter
18, verse 3 Varahamihira
Sun in Capricorn: For the characteristics of Capricorn, please see my article on the Signs. Capricorn is 6 signs
away from Leo. A Sun in Capricorn individual will be a workaholic, projecting their inspiration and personal
Truth through 6th house connotations. The daily grind, and destroying ones competitors and enemies will be a
major theme in their lives. They will be able to use Truth and Inspiration to do these things. This is the reason
this planetary position has a reputation for corporate ruthlessness and CEO membership. A Sun in Capricorn
will also take great pains to take care of their health. Leo is 8 signs away from Capricorn, thus, a Sun in
Capricorn will derive inspiration and personal Truth from breaks and changes, other peoples money and
resources, hidden, secret things, others psychology and research.
One who has the Sun in Capricorn will be base, interested in bad women, be greedy, will advance with mean
jobs, be endowed with various deeds, be timid, devoid of relatives, ckle-minded, fond of wandering, weak, will
lose everything due to conicts with his relatives, and will be a voracious eater. Saravali, Chapter 22, verse
56-57 Kalyana Varma
One having Sun in Capricorn: Acts in a manner unbecoming of his position, is foolish. Engaged in unbecoming
trade, has loss of wealth and is greedy. Brihat Jataka, Chapter 18, verse 4 Varahamihira
Sun in Aquarius: For the characteristics of Aquarius, please see my article on the Signs. Leo is 7 houses away
from Aquarius and there are 7 houses from Leo to Aquarius. Thus, a Sun in Aquarius person derives and
projects inspiration and their own personal Truth though other people. A Sun in Aquarius person will get ideas
from what other people have done and add their own avor to it. They will need and operate from input from
others. This will be very important. They will often want to help others and benet through helping them. As
often as they are inspired by others, they will inspire others. Relationships also serve to inspire their creative
intelligence and form their personal Truth. In return, they often inspire their partners to whatever they hold dear.
If the Sun is in Aquarius at birth, one will suffer from heart diseases, will have enormous strength (courage), be
very short-tempered, be fortunate through other housewives, be hated by the learned, be rm in his activities, be
miserable, will have little wealth, be fraudulent, be not rm in friendship, will have dirty body and be a miser.
Saravali, Chapter 22, verse 64-65 Kalyana Varma
One having Sun in Aquarius: Is engaged in unbecoming actions. He is bereft of sons and good luck. Brihat
Jataka, Chapter 18, verse 4 Varahamihira
Sun in Pisces: For the characteristics of Pisces, please see my article on the Signs. The Sun in Pisces projects
their inspiration and own personal Truth through hidden, secret channels. They are often interested in doing so
through New Age or Occult means. They do well through other peoples money and resources and often put
these things to good use. They are very adept at reading others psychology (8th house) and offering
constructive healing advice. A Sun in Pisces gets inspiration and personal Truth through hard work, healing and
health, karma yoga, discord and enemies. Since these things mentioned are considered to be self-negating, a Sun
in Pisces person will often come across as very humble and accommodating.
If the Sun is in Pisces at birth, one will be friendly, will have tendency to amass, be fond of women and happy,
be learned, will destroy many enemies and be wealthy and rich. He will be endowed with wife, good sons and
servants, will have wealth on account of transactions via sea/river, be an eloquent speaker but a liar, will suffer
from diseases of the private parts and will have many a co-born. Saravali, Chapter 22, verse 66-67- Kalyana
Varma
One having Sun in Pisces: Earns through articles connect with water such as pearls. He gets respect from
women. Brihat Jataka, Chapter 18, verse 4 Varahamihira
The Moon houses the Manas (the perceptual mind), the Jiva (the living being as a separate entity) and the
Ahamkara (the ego). Since the sense of ourselves comes from the Moon and all of our perceptions come
through the Moon, it is no wonder that the Moon is the most important planet. The Moon takes the light from
the Sun (the Soul) and waxes and wanes, reecting the fact that change is an inevitable process of life here on
Earth. A well placed Moon in a horoscope can carry a person a long way in life because it is ones attitude about
ones environment. A beat up Moon can give a gloomy outlook and give psychological maladjustments. The
Moon is the emotions and the receptive part of us. As human beings with bodies, we all can only be receptive to
what the senses bring us. Therefore, the Moon is as important in males as it is in females.
Moon in Aries: For the characteristics of Aries, please see my article on the Signs. The Moolatrikona sign of
the Moon is Taurus, as well as its exaltation sign. The sign the Moon rules is Cancer. Therefore, counting from
Taurus, Aries is 12 houses away. Counting from Aries, Cancer is 4 houses away. Thus, the Moon in Aries will
have 12th and 4th house connotations. The native will be fascinated by secrets, mysteries and the sub-
conscious. The native is naturally attuned to the impermanence of life and to loss. The native will be dreamy,
idealistic and actively engage in seeking out the answer, whether in the form of meditation or escapism. The
person is humble. 4th house connotations would denote that the Moon in Aries person loves to have a stable
home and inner life. Their mind derives pleasure and identity through their emotions and relatives. Owning a
home or at least having an aesthetically pleasing home will give them comfort and identity. The native is
usually very close to his/her mother.
Should the Moon be in Aries, the native will have a golden colored body, will be endowed with lasting wealth,
be devoid of co-born, be valorous, self-respected, auspicious, prosperous, libidinous, will have weak legs, ugly
nails, and little hair, be ckle-minded, will consider honor as wealth, will possess hands and legs like the lotus,
(i.e. these will be lotus-red), will have more sons, round eyes, be friendly, be afraid of getting into watery places
(like river, well etc.), will have wounds on the head and be won over by females. Saravali, Chapter 23, verse
1, Kalyana Varma
One having Moon in Aries has round eyes like the colour of copper. He likes to eat things less but in hot
condition, is easily pleased, has many travels, is given to sex. The lower portion of his legs is weak. He has
vicissitudes in matters of wealth, is full of valour, favorite of women, appreciates service of others, has bad nails
of the body, has mark of injury on the head, is respected, is eldest among his brothers. He has mark of shakti (a
weapon) on his palm, is very changeful and is very much afraid of water. Brihat Jataka, Chapter 17, verse 1,
Varahamihira
Moon in Taurus: For the characteristics of Taurus, please see my article on the Signs. Taurus is the
Moolatrikona sign of the Moon. Therefore, a Moon in Taurus person is very self-sufcient and does not need
outer stimulation to feel happy. They have a natural serenity and are not generally emotionally needy unless the
Moon is harmed in other ways. Stability, comfort and happiness are derived by just being. How does the Moon
in Taurus receive comfort and happiness? Through 3rd house matters such as hobbies and interests. Cancer, the
sign ruled by the Moon is 3 houses away from Taurus. A Moon in Taurus person can occupy themselves quite
happily with their interests and not feel any lack. This native also will feel very comfortable around their
siblings and co-workers. A healthy use of their self-will also brings satisfaction and mental stability.
If the Moon be in Taurus at birth, the native will be large-hearted, highly charitable, short-haired, libidinous,
famous, brilliant, will have (more) daughters, will possess eyes resembling that of a bull, be in a position to
differentiate between good and bad, be happy during middle and concluding pars of his life, will have strong
waist, feet shoulders, face etc., will have (some) identity on the side and back of the body, will walk beautifully
and be endowed with forbearance. Saravali, Chapter 23, verse 8, Kalyana Varma
One having Moon in Taurus is very good-looking, walks playfully, has big hips and face. He has mark on his
back, face or sides. He is capable of renunciation and bearing troubles, has power over others with long neck,
has mostly female issues, is prone to troubles from phlegm, liable to lose his original relatives and sons, is
lucky, is of a forgiving nature, has good digestive power, is favourite of women, has steadfast friends and is
happy in youth and old age. Brihat Jataka, Chapter 17, verse 2, Varahamihira
Moon in Gemini: In addition to the characteristics of Gemini (which you can see in my article on the Signs),
the Moon in Gemini person will display 2nd house characteristics. The person will project their emotions and
comfort through 2nd house connotations and receive comfort and emotion through 2nd house
connotations. They will feel comforted through the sensual things in life like good food, drink and music. They
will feel comfort and gain identity through their immediate family. Much of their stability and security will
come from their wealth and possessions. They will see everything through the tinted glasses of its inherent
value, as value and wealth are 2nd house matters. Unless the Moon is highly aficted through aspect or in bad
houses, Moon in Gemini people often have inherently high self esteem and always feel a strong sense of self
worth.
If the Moon is in Gemini at birth, one will have prominent nose and dark eyes will be skilful in the art of love,
poetry etc., will enjoy sexual pleasures, will have lines of sh in the palm, will be fond of worldly enjoyments,
will be sinewy, be very intelligent, splendorous, be endowed with happiness, jocular disposition and eloquent
speech, be won over by females, will have a long body, will befriend neuters and will have two mothers.
Saravali, Chapter 23, verse 16, Kalyana Varma
One born with Moon in Gemini is fond of women, is efcient in the exercise of the science of sex, has eyes of eh
colour of cpper, knows the Shastras (Religious literature), is a messenger or an ambassador, has curly hair, has
keen intellect, is jocular in spirit, familiar with gambling, has the capacity to know others mind merely from
their movements, has beautiful body, talks sweetly, interested in eating much, is lover of music and knows
dancing, likes the company of eunuchs and has raised nostrils. Brihat Jataka, Chapter 17, verse 3,
Varahamihira
Moon in Cancer: In addition to the characteristics of Cancer which you can read in my article on the Signs, the
Moon in Cancer, like Moon in Taurus, does very well on its own and is not generally emotionally needy. There
are 3rd house connotations to a Moon in Cancer because Cancer is 3 houses away from Taurus, the
Moolatrikona sign of the Moon. And Cancer is the sign ruled by the Moon. This native usually has very active
interests which, when pursued, give immense pleasure, comfort and focus to the persons mind. Healthy
competition and the creative expression of their self-will will give them ease and in fact, when they are not
interested in something, and are forced to do it, they become very uncomfortable. They put on the tinted glasses
of self-will and see the world through these glasses, since the Moon is their mind and it has 3rd house avors.
If the Moon is in Cancer at birth, the native will be fortunate, valorous, be endowed with residence, friends,
journeys and astrological knowledge, be sensuous, grateful, be a minister, be truthful, will live abroad, be
passionate, hairy bodied, fond of water and owers, interested in construction of houses, wells, etc., and will
have a prominent neck. Saravali, Chapter 23, verse 23, Kalyana Varma
One born with Moon in Cancer walks very quickly and in a zigzag way, has a raised waist, in inuenced by
women, has true friends, has knowledge of fate (is an Astrologer). Has many houses (Residences). Sees nancial
ups and downs like the Moon. Possesses a small body with a thick neck. Can be won over by persuasion. Is
beloved of friends and frequently visits watery places and orchards. Brihat Jataka, Chapter 17, verse 4,
Varahamihira
Moon in Leo: For characteristics of Leo, please see my article on the Signs. The Moon in Leo has 4th and 12th
house connotations like the Moon in Aries. Is it not interesting that these two re signs, when having the Moon
placed there have characteristics of the Moksha or water houses? This is because the Moon is water and Kapha,
and Fire is at odds with Water. So, inevitably, the Moon feels a little uncomfortable in Fire Signs. The Moon
seeks comfort and wants to feel good, the Moon is receptive. Fire pushes and is initiative. So the Moon will
seek comfort in the 4th and 12th house connotations. The person will derive comfort from home and
hearth. They will be close to their mother. Oddly enough, since this is the Sign of Leo, they will be humble,
self-negating and often doubt themselves, due to the 12th house associations. They will be interested in
enlightenment or at the very least, escaping harsh reality. It is very possible that they meditate or reach
alternative realities. Many of these people are in the New Age movement.
If the Moon is in Leo, one will have sturdy bones, sparse hair, wide face, small and yellowish eyes, will hate
women, will suffer from hunfer and thirst, will incur stomachial disorders and tooth-decay, will eat esh, be
charitable, harsh, will have few sons, will seek sexual union in forests and hills, be respectfully disposed to his
mother, will have broad chest, be valorous, dutiful and will have majestic looks. Saravali, Chapter 23, verse
30, Kalyana Varma
One born with Moon in Leo is full of anger wit a thick chin, broad face, yellow eyes. He has very few issues
(children). Is opposed to women in general. Likes to eat meat and visit jungles and mountains. Is angry for
lapses by others. Is much troubled by diseases of eht hunger, thirst, belly, teeth and those relating to the
mind. He is giver of alms, full of valour, of steadfast mind and proud disposition and is devoted to his mother.
Brihat Jataka, Chapter 17, verse 5, Varahamihira
Moon in Virgo: Please see my article on the Signs for a description of Virgo. The Moon in Virgo has 5th and
11th house connotations, because Virgo is 5 houses away from Taurus (the Moons Moolatrikona sign) and
Cancer (the sign of the Moons rulership) is 11 houses away from Virgo. The Moon in Virgo person will project
their emotion, identity into learning, spiritual practices, sports, creations, children and investments. They will
feel very comfortable doing these things and will identify with them. They will also derive comfort and identity
through status in society, friends, and their income. They see the world through the lenses of their status and
their creativity.
If the Moon occupies Virgo at birth, one will be addicted to women, will have long hands, attractive body and
face, beautiful teeth, eyes and ears, be learned, be a religious preceptor (teaching Vedas etc.), be an eloquent
speaker, be truthful and pure, valorous, be kind to living beings, be interested in others affairs, be of forgiving
disposition, be fortunate, will have more daughters but not many sons. Saravali, Chapter 23, verse 37,
Kalyana Varma
One born with Moon in Virgo has a gait marked by bashfulness, slow motion and pleasing glances. He is
somewhat weak in the region of arms and shoulders. Happy with a clear and truthful speech. He is adept in arts
(Handicrafts etc), informed in the matter of religions and is religious in action, has a very keen intellect, loves
sex, has occasion to get house and wealth belonging to others, lives in another country or province, is sweet in
speech and has many daughters and very few sons. Brihat Jataka, Chapter 6, verse 6, Varahamihira
Moon in Libra: For the characteristics of Libra, please see my article on the Signs. The Moon in Libra is 6
houses away from Taurus and Cancer is 10 houses away from Libra, thus the mantra for Moon in Libra is
work, work, and more work! Consequently, Moon in Libra people are very attuned to hard work and
responsibility and tend to be workaholics because this is what they are comfortable doing. Their emotions are
satised in getting down and dirty with the enemy and they do not shy away from ghting for what they
want. Life is looked at as a struggle. They are very comfortable and see everything through the lenses of power,
career, struggle and work. Their health and bodily constitution are also everyday issues for them. For a
description of the sign of Libra, please see my article on the Signs.
If the Moon is posited in Libra at birth, the native will have elevated nose, broad eyes, will have weak (i.e. not
prominent) face and emaciated body, will have many wives, many bulls (or cattle) and abundant landed
property, be valorous, will have testicles resembling that of an ox, be skilful in work, will honor Gods and the
wise, will be endowed with various kinds of wealth, will be conquered by females, will have an emaciated body
(this is a repetition), will donate corns, will not be rm in disposition and will be helpful to his relatives.
Saravali, Chapter 23, verse 37, Kalyana Varma
One born with Moon in Libra is devoted to the service of deity, Brahmins and sadhus, is intelligent, clean in
dealing and under the inuence of his wife. He has a tall and thin body with thin nose, prone to disease, fond of
traveling, and wealthy, liable to some loss of limb, efcient in the sale and purchase of commodities. Apart from
his birth name he is later known by the name of some deity. He des good to his family and relatives but is
forsaken by them. Brihat Jataka, Chapter 6, verse 7, Varahamihira
Moon in Scorpio: Please see my article on the Signs for a description of Scorpio. This is a tricky placement. As
most of you know, Moon in Scorpio is the Moons debilitated position. Why is that so? Let us look at it from a
house connotation point of view. From Taurus to Scorpio there are 7 houses, so this will give the Moon in
Scorpio 7th house connotations. Thus, the Moon placed here tends the emotional peace and satisfaction to rely
upon other people, especially the romantic partner. Whenever the emotional peace and identity of a person is
dependent upon other people it is naturally subject to extreme highs and lows. Even if the other person is
putting on a good face to the Moon in Scorpio native, and the other person does not really like the Moon in
Scorpio native, the Moon in Scorpio can feel the persons apathy and dislike. Consequently, their mental peace
is disturbed. This is what makes the Moon in Scorpio so vulnerable to the emotions of others. Moon in Scorpio
also has 9th house connotations. Seen from this point of view, one can see why the Moon would be debilitated
here. The 9th house has to do with roaming and searching, it has to do with religion, teachers, and ones
purpose. It is a doing house, but the Moon is not a doer, it is a receiver. The Moon does not like to roam, it
likes to stay home and feel secure, thus Moon in Scorpio derives comfort and emotional peace from long
distance travel, religion and purposeful action.
Should the Moon be in Scorpio at birth, one will be a miser, will have round thighs (i.e. wellgrown thighs), will
have coarse physique and nose, (i.e. the physique and nose will not be soft), will be cruel in acts, be a thief, be
sick in childhood, will have spoiled chin and nails but beautiful eyes, will be plentiful, be industrious, skilful,
fond of other housewives, devoid of relatives, insane (or infatuated with passion), valorous, will lose wealth due
to royal wrath and will have a big abdomen and a big head. Saravali, Chapter 23, verse 51, Kalyana Varma
One born with Moon in Scorpio, has big eyes and chest with round legs, devoid of father and preceptors,
subject to disease in infancy, favored by the government. He has a yellow body and is engaged in cruel
deeds. He has marks of sh, thunderbolt, bird in hands and feet and is sinful in private (not openly). Brihat
Jataka, Chapter 6, verse 8, Varahamihira
Moon in Sagittarius: In addition to the natural signication of Sagittarius which I explain in my article on the
Signs, the Moon in Sagittarius has 8th house connotations. The native will feel very comfortable beneting
from other peoples money and resources. They are highly interested in the occult, secret, hidden things,
mysteries, other peoples psychology. They see the world through the lens of secrets, conspiracies and major
breaks and changes. They will have natural sexiness and emotional peace through sexuality. These people are
attuned to major life changes and huge windfalls and also a perceptual attunement to death and
transformation. They will also go through many personality transformations in their lifetime. There will be
some hard lessons to learn in the realm of their own psychology and thus it will be transformed for better or
worse depending on the condition of the Moon.
If the Moon is in Sagittarius at birth, the native will be dwarsh, will have round eyes, big heart, waist and
hands, be a good speaker, will have prominent shoulders and neck, will live near watery zone, will have
knowledge of arts and secret affairs, be courageous, will possess strong bones, be very strong, will have strong
neck and lips, be attached to his relatives, be grateful and distinguished. His legs will not be wider when in
position. Saravali, Chapter 23, verse 58, Kalyana Varma
One born with Moon in Sagittarius has a thick face and neck. He has paternal wealth and is generous in
charity. He is wise, powerful and a good speaker. His lips, teeth, ears and nose are thick. He is industrious and
knows some art (handicraft, painting etc), has hunch in the region of shoulders and bad nails. His arms are full
of esh. He is wise and religious but opposed to his relatives. He is invulnerable through force and can be
tackled through love and reconciliation. Brihat Jataka, Chapter 6, verse 9, Varahamihira
Moon in Capricorn: Please see my article on the Signs for a description of Capricorn. Capricorn is 9 houses
away from Taurus and from Capricorn to Cancer there are 7 houses, thus, Moon in Capricorn has 9th and 7th
house connotations. Moon in Capricorn people also, like Moon in Scorpio people, feel a lot of vulnerability
around romantic relationships and other people in general. Paradoxically, they derive a lot of comfort and
emotional peace from others. So depending on the other persons reaction to them, it is a see-saw of emotional
peace and upheaval. The Moon in Capricorn person will project their identity and comfort through the vehicle
of long distance travel, religion or philosophy, purposeful action, teaching others, all 9th house connotations.
If the Moon at birth be in Capricorn, the native will be a singer, will be averse to cold articles (or season), will
hate stout body, will be fond of truth and charity, be distinguished, famous, less irascible, be libidinous, unkind
and shameless; will possess beautiful eyes and emaciated body, will violate teachers bed, be a poet, will have
round thighs, be not very enthusiastic, be very miserly and will have long neck and ears. Saravali, Chapter
23, verse 58, Kalyana Varma
One born with Moon in Capricorn is ever loving his wife and sons, shows himself outwardly as religious, is thin
below the waist, has good looking eyes, possesses a thin waist and acts favorably to requests. He is fortunate
and lazy, subject to suffering from cold, much traveled, powerful and taking interest in literature, greedy,
sexually attached to old women, shameless and pitiless. Brihat Jataka, Chapter 6, verse 10, Varahamihira
Moon in Aquarius: In addition to the natural signications of Aquarius, which can be found in my article on
the Signs, Moon in Aquarius gives 10th and 6th house connotations, so, like the Moon in Libra, the mantra here
is work, work and more work! Moon in Aquarius will project their comfort, emotional peace, identity and
outlook into the realm of their career or the actions they perform each day. They will inevitably be very
concerned and wear the lens of status and power. They will see the world through these eyes. These are all 10th
house avors. Moon in Aquarius will derive comfort and emotional peace through hard work, the daily grind,
health and constitution issues, and the struggle against enemies to get what they want. Life is seen as a hard
struggle as for the Moon in Libra.
If the Moon is in Aquarius at birth, the person will have elevated nose, rough or uneven body, and stout hands
and legs; will be addicted to intoxicants, will be averse to the virtuous, be not himself virtuous, will obtain
illegal sons, will have stout head, ugly/diseased eyes, bright face and prominent waist, be an artisan, will have
bad mentality, be miserable, and will be very poor. Saravali, Chapter 23, verse 72, Kalyana Varma
If Moon is in Aquarius at the time of a persons birth, he/she will have long neck like that of a camel, strong
nerves all over the body, tall and rough form covered with hair, broad feet, thighs, legs, face and belly. He will
be hard-hearted and desire others wives, commit sinful deeds. He will be fond of owers and perfumes. He will
be able to endure the stress of walking long distances on the roads. Brihat Jataka, Chapter 6, verse 11,
Varahamihira
Moon in Pisces: Please see my article on the Signs for a description of Pisces. Pisces is 11 houses away from
Taurus and Cancer is 5 houses away from Pisces. The Moon in Pisces native will project their emotional peace,
comfort, identity and attitude into the realm of friends, status within society and income. These natives usually
become very successful because they are comfortable with success and they see the world through the lens of
status, popularity and success. The Moon in Pisces native will derive comfort, identity, emotional peace and
their attitude from learning, spiritual practices such as mantras, hatha yoga, prayer, etc., creativity, creations of
any kind including children, sports and investments. These are all 5th houses avors. The Moon in Pisces
person is generally a very creative, inspiring individual. They are comfortable with government agencies and
authority and usually these things benet their life.
If the Moon is in Pisces, the native will be expert in ne arts, be capable of winning even unfavorable people, be
learned in Sasthras, beautiful-bodied, procient in music, very religious, will cohabit with many women, be a
polite speaker, will serve the king, be somewhat irascible, will have a big head, be endowed with happiness and
wealth, will be won over by the fair sex, be virtuous, be interested in sailing and be liberal. Saravali, Chapter
23, verse 79, Kalyana Varma
The person born with Moon in Pisces will get money by dealing with things grown in water such that pearls,
sh, coral etc. He will usurp others wealth, will be fond of his wife and children. He will have proportionate
body and limbs, projected nose and big head. He will defeat his enemies, but yield to women. He will have
beautiful eyes and fair appearance. He will be learned and enjoy hidden treasures. Brihat Jataka, Chapter 6,
verse 12, Varahamihira
Buddhi which translates as intellect is a name for Mercury. Mercury is the child of the Moon (consciousness) so
he is Cognizance and Intellect. An attribute of intellect is discrimination, which also belongs to
Mercury. Mercury is the speech giver and as such gives a person the power to bring what is in his consciousness
into speech. The intellectual consciousness and how it forms within the individual is ruled over by
Mercury. Intellectualism is subjective, based on the perceptions of the individuals perceptual mind (the
Moon). Once Buddhi becomes pure, then the Truth or what is real can be discerned. Mercury rules both types of
intellect, the buddhi (pure knowledge) and intellect (knowledge based upon perception). Mercury is the Crown
Prince in the Planetary Cabinet. Therefore, Mercury is fond of play, laughter and is becoming ready to inherent
the kingdom so he is impressionable. That is why it is said that Mercury will take on the characteristics of the
planet with whom he is joined and of whom inuences him. The Earth element is also ruled over by Mercury,
Earth being that which is most concrete in manifested creation, so people with strong Mercurys are able to
bring things to concrete realization.
Below you will see descriptions of Mercury through the Signs based on the principle of a planet giving the
effects of its position from its moolatrikona sign and feminine sign. The following descriptions do not describe
the Signs themselves. After each description is commentary from the ancient, medieval texts on Astrology,
Saravali and Brihat Jataka. The characteristics mentioned by these texts must be taken with a grain of salt, since
they are mainly based upon the fact of a planet being in a benecs or malecs Sign.
Mercury in Aries: For a description of Aries, please see my article on the Signs. The Moolatrikona sign of
Mercury is Virgo, which is not keeping with the pattern of the Moolatrikona signs being the masculine sign of a
planet. Virgo is also the feminine sign ruled by Mercury, so Virgo is always the reference point when
delineating the signications of Mercury within a sign. Aries is 8 signs away from Virgo counting zodiacally, so
the sense of humor of a Mercury in Aries person will be a little morbid. Their intellect will break things down
intellectually and may have a very critical outlook. Their reasoning process is based upon much research and
delving deep into the core of issues. Mercury in Aries is usually a very deep thinker and has a very powerful
intellect. What is brought into concrete realization is usually some way of breaking things down and deep
analysis such as a critic, a debater, a person who work is to destroy things in some fashion. Virgo is 6 signs
away from Aries, so the native will derive his intellect and sense of humor from enemies and obstacles. He will
naturally ght with words, and will be able to tear an idea or concept down with diatribe.
If Mercury is in Aries at the time of ones birth, the native will be fond of battles (be uncompromising), be very
learned, wicked, emaciated, interested in music and dance, be untruthful, be attached to sexual pleasures, be a
writer, will produce ctitious things, will eat much, will lose hard-earned money, will incur debts and
imprisonment frequently and will be sometimes ckleminded and yet sometimes rm in disposition. Saravali,
Chapter 26, verse 1-2, Kalyana Varma
If Mercury occupies Aries or Scorpio, the native engages himself in gambling. Takes on debts, is drunkard, an
atheist, thief and devoid of wealth. He has a bad wife. He tells lies and is engaged in subtle and cunning
actions. Brihat Jataka, Chapter 18, verse 8, Varahamihira
Mercury in Taurus: See my article on the Signs for a description of Taurus. Taurus is 9 signs away from Virgo,
so the native with Mercury in Taurus will use his speech to inspire and educate. His intellect will be put forth
into philosophical precepts and his reasoning ability will always operate from a philosophical platform. Virgo is
5 signs away from Taurus, therefore the native will derive his intellect and discrimination from learning and
studying, sports, being creative and/or children, and spiritual practices. What will manifest (the Earth element,
which Mercury rules) in his life is a lot of higher knowledge, long distance travel, inspiration, philosophical
and/or religious outlook, purposeful action, creativity.
Should Mercury be in Taurus the native will be skillful, eminently liberal, be famous, will have knowledge of
Vedas and sastras, be fond of exercises, robes, ornaments and garlands, be rm in disposition, will have
sincerely earned wealth, will possess a chaste wife, will be a soft and sweet speaker, and be after sexual
satisfaction. Saravali, Chapter 26, verse 3-4, Kalyana Varma
If Mercury occupies Taurus or Libra, the native becomes a teacher. He has many wives and sons, is engaged in
earning wealth, is liberal and is devoted to Guru. Brihat Jataka, Chapter 18, verse 8, Varahamihira
Mercury in Gemini: Even though Gemini is the masculine sign ruled by Mercury, the Moolatrikona sign of
Mercury is Virgo. Therefore, Mercury in Gemini will give 10th and 4th house effects posited in Gemini because
Gemini is 10 signs away from Virgo and Virgo is 4 signs away from Gemini counting zodiacally. For a
description of Gemini, please see my article on the Signs. Mercury in Gemini natives will display their
intellectual prowess with great gusto. They will project their sense of humor and playfulness into their career
and everyday actions. They will be able to discriminate very well in regard to their career and be able to
negotiate very well to further their goals. Their career will manifest very prominently in their lives. The
Mercury in Gemini person will derive their intellectualism through their inner selves. Paradoxically, the
emotions will gauge their ability to discriminate.
If Mercury occupy Gemini at birth, the subject will have an auspicious appearance, will speak sweetly, be very
afuent, be an able speaker, be honorable, will give up his happiness, will cohabit less, will have two wives, be
fond of arguments, will be learned in Vedas, Sastras, etc, be a poet, be independent, dear, very municent,
procient in work and will have many sons and friends. Saravali, Chapter 26, verse 5-6, Kalyana Varma
If Mercury occupies Gemini, the native is very well in speech, efcient in religious and other literature as well
as in arts. He speaks sweetly and is happy. Brihat Jataka, Chapter 18, verse 9, Varahamihira
Mercury in Cancer: See a description of Cancer in my article on the Signs. Mercury in Cancer will give 11th
and 3rd house connotations. Natives with Mercury in Cancer will build their status within society through their
speech. Their peers and society in general will benet and be inuenced by the intellect of the Mercury in
Cancer native. Mercury in Cancer natives are naturally very social as Mercury is the planet of friends and the
11th house is the house of friends. Mercury in Cancer will derive their sense of humor, intellectualism and
discrimination from their hobbies, interests and healthy competition. Asserting themselves and their personality
characteristics stimulate their intellect. Mercurys Earth element will manifest popularity in their lives.
One born with Mercury in Cancer will be learned, will be fond of living in other countries, be interested in
cohabiting with women and also in music, be ckleminded, prattling, inimical to his own relatives, will be fond
of arguments, will lose wealth on account of enmity with women, be of bad disposition, be interested in many
jobs, be a good poet and will be popular on account of fame of his ancestors. Saravali, Chapter 26, verse 7-8,
Kalyana Varma
If Mercury occupies Cancer the native derives income through watery occupations. He is an enemy to his own
people. Brihat Jataka, Chapter 18, verse 9, Varahamihira
Mercury in Leo: Mercury in Leo has 12th and 2nd house connotations. For a description of the characteristics
of Leo, see my article on the Signs. Mercury in Leo people communicate in a hidden way, usually through
writing. Some of them become great authors. They project their speech and intellect into the realm of fantasy,
the sub-conscious, and dreams. They have the ability to explain and convey obscure, profound concepts. These
natives often have a natural talent for poetry. Mercury being the Earth element is able to manifest great wealth
but also great loss, so it follows there are many uctuations in nances.
Should the planet Mercury occupy Leo at ones birth, the native will not possess even bit of wisdom, be famous
in the world, be not truthful, will possess a weak memory, be wealthy, be not strong, will indulge in fratricide,
be unfortunate in respect of wife, be independent, mean in conduct, be a servant, be devoid of children, be
against his own race but be favorable to others. Saravali, Chapter 26, verse 9-10, Kalyana Varma
If Mercury occupies Leo, the native is opposed to women. Is devoid of wealth, happiness and song, wanders
much, is foolish, is given to sex and meets a defeat at the hands of his own people. Brihat Jataka, Chapter 18,
verse 10, Varahamihira
Mercury in Virgo: Mercury in Virgo gives 1st house connotations because Virgo is the Moolatrikona AND the
feminine sign ruled by Mercury. For a description of Virgo, please see my article on the signs. Mercury in Virgo
has many skills using the hands and body. These natives identify strongly with their intellect. The intellect
translates through the vehicle of their body and especially the hands, therefore they are very dexterous in a
number of things. These natives will have strong, well-formed bodies and muscles. They are naturals at math,
negotiation and marketing themselves. Often very witty, they can be fun and interesting friends.
If Mercury occupies his exaltation sign (Virgo) at the time of ones birth, the native will be quite virtuous,
eloquent, skillful, will have knowledge of writing (i.e. be an exponent) and poetry, be learned in ne/mechanical
arts, be sweet in disposition, be liked by women, be not much virile, be the eldest son of family, be honored by
virtuous, be disposed to serve others, modest, argumentative, famous, charitable and strong. Saravali,
Chapter 26, verse 11-12, Kalyana Varma
If Mercury occupies Virgo, he is municent, has many qualities, is happy and forgiving, clever in argument and
fearless. Brihat Jataka, Chapter 18, verse 10, Varahamihira
Mercury in Libra: Mercury in Libra has 2nd and 12th house connotations. See my description of Libra in my
article on the Signs. Mercury in Libra will project their speech and intellect into the realm of speech, so it
follows that they are naturals in communication and are often known within their circles as big
talkers. Mercury in Libra natives will have unparalleled skill in making tasty, sumptuous food and a great
command of language. These natives will have a knack for using negotiation to acquire wealth. And wealth will
denitely manifest in their lives. Communication will revolve around speech and writing. The Mercury in Libra
person will derive their intellect and communication from the subconscious and altered states. A direct bee line
to the universal mind will fuel their communication and, like Mercury in Leo, will be inspired to discuss
profound and misunderstood concepts developed within the unconscious. The intellect will be stimulated by the
other worldly realms.
If Mercury falls in Libra at the time of ones birth the native will possess knowledge of arts, be intent upon
arguments, be an able speaker, will spend money lavishly, will have business in various directions, will honor
wise men, guests, gods and preceptors (elders), be skillful in pretending to serve others, be amiable, devoted to
gods, fraudulent, ckle-minded and sometimes short-tempered and yet sometimes notably peaceful. Saravali,
Chapter 26, verse 13-14, Kalyana Varma
If Mercury occupies Taurus or Libra, the native becomes a teacher. He has many wives and sons, is engaged in
earning wealth, is liberal and is devoted to Guru. Brihat Jataka, Chapter 18, verse 8, Varahamihira
Mercury in Scorpio: Please see my article on the Signs for a description of Scorpio. Mercury in Scorpio has
3rd and 11th house connotations. Mercury in Scorpio will project their intellect into their own interests, hobbies
and skills. Like Mercury in Virgo, Mercury in Scorpio will have a lot of dexterity. These natives will be highly
developed in some skill and their intellect will invigorate a hobby they have. A highly developed self will is
noted and they will discover effective to further their self interests. They will make excellent marketers and
salesmen. The Mercury in Scorpio person will derive discrimination and intellectual capacity from their social
circle, friends and their achievements. These things will also stimulate their speech patterns.
If Mercury is posited in Scorpio, one will experience troubles, grief and evils, will hate the virtuous, will be
devoid of truth, religion and shame, be a dunce, be not virtuous, be a miser, will cohabit with wicked women, be
fond of giving cruel punishments, be not outspoken, be interested in blameworthy jobs, will incur debts, will join
base men, and will steal others properties. Saravali, Chapter 26, verse 15-16, Kalyana Varma
If Mercury occupies Aries or Scorpio, the native engages himself in gambling. Takes on debts, is drunkard, an
atheist, thief and devoid of wealth. He has a bad wife. He tells lies and is engaged in subtle and cunning
actions. Brihat Jataka, Chapter 18, verse 8, Varahamihira
Mercury in Sagittarius: For a description of Sagittarius, please see my article on the Signs. Mercury in
Sagittarius carries 4th and 10th house characteristics. Sag is 4 signs away from Virgo, the moolatrikona sign of
Sagittarius. These natives will project their intellectualism into the realm of their emotions. They will be vocal
or at least write about how they feel and will constantly analyze their feelings. Critical of their inner selves, it
may be difcult for them to feel peaceful. Mercury in Sagittarius natives derive their intellect and speech from
their everyday actions and their career. This will inspire them to communicate and differentiate. The 4th and
10th house connotations of property and career will always manifest within their lives These natives will
comfort themselves through speech.
Should Mercury be in Sagittarius, the native will be famous, liberal, will have knowledge of Vedas and Sastras,
be valorous, will practice abstract meditation, be a minister, or a family priest, be chief among his race men,
will be very rich, be interested in performing yagnas and teaching (Vedas, etc.), be a skillful speaker, be
charitable and be an expert in writing and ne arts. Saravali, Chapter 26, verse 17-18, Kalyana Varma
If Mercury occupies Sagittarius or Pisces, the native is favored by the Government, is learned, speaks very
aptly, favorite of the servant class and is an efcient artisan. Brihat Jataka, Chapter 18, verse 11,
Varahamihira
Mercury in Capricorn: See a description of Capricorn in my article on the Signs. Mercury in Capricorn has
5th and 9th house connotations. These people will love learning and dispensing knowledge. They will always be
projecting their intellect into the realm of learning and discriminating about what is best to learn. Mercury in
Capricorn natives will enjoy discussing philosophy, religion, and metaphysics. They do not like small talk. They
derive their skills from traveling, all things philosophical, distribution of what they have learned and divine
grace. They then project those skills into being creative, children, investments, and always being a
student. Those things just mentioned will manifest in their lives very prominently because the Earth element
manifests things more than any other element and Mercury rules Earth.
If Mercury is in Capricorn at birth, the native will be mean, dull, impotent, will do others work, be devoid of
virtues, be subjected to various kinds of miseries, will dream, wander etc. be a tale-bearer, be untruthful, devoid
of relatives, dirty and timid. Saravali, Chapter 26, verse 19-20, Kalyana Varma
If Mercury occupies Capricorn or Aquarius the native works for others (i.e. employed under others), is poor, an
artisan, in debt, acting under orders of others. Brihat Jataka, Chapter 18, verse 11, Varahamihira
Mercury in Aquarius: Mercury in Aquarius will give 6th and 8th house connotations. Mercury in Aquarius
natives will project their intellect, discrimination, speech into overcoming obstacles, sparring with enemies,
criticism and the daily grind. They will derive their intellect, discrimination and speech from destruction and
transformation, other peoples resources, and mysterious, hidden sources. Enemies and obstacles,
transformation and deep mystery will manifest in the lives of these natives due to the fact that the Earth
element, ruled by Mercury, manifests more than any other element.
Should Mercury be in Aquarius at birth, the subject will be bereft of good disposition and good deeds, be
attached to many religions, will give up doing worthy things, be insulted by others, be impure, be not virtuous,
be very wicked, be inimical to wife, be devoid of carnal pleasures, be very unfortunate, very timid, impotent,
dirty and modest. Saravali, Chapter 26, verse 21-22, Kalyana Varma
If Mercury occupies Capricorn or Aquarius the native works for others (i.e. employed under others), is poor, an
artisan, in debt, acting under orders of others. Brihat Jataka, Chapter 18, verse 11, Varahamihira
Mercury in Pisces: In addition to the natural characteristics of Pisces, Mercury in Pisces will display
characteristics of the 7th house. This is Mercurys fallen placement. Why? If we look at it from a house
signication point of view, then we will see that Mercury, which is differentiating and discriminating will
project and derive these characteristics from the romantic partner. Mercury in Pisces becomes critical and
discriminating with the partner and other people in general. The intellect, instead of the emotions, is projected
into the relationship space (7th house). The 7th house needs to have emotional support instead of intellectual
support, making this Mercurys debilitated position.
Should Mercury be in Pisces, one will be fond of good conduct and purity, will live in foreign countries, be
issueless, poor, will have a chaste wife, be virtuous, fortunate, be devoid of religion, be skillful in stitching etc.,
and be devoid of profane knowledge, acquaintance, with Sastras and ne arts, will be procient in bagging
others wealth and will be devoid of wealth. Saravali, Chapter 26, verse 23-24, Kalyana Varma
If Mercury occupies Sagittarius or Pisces, the native is favored by the Government, is learned, speaks very
aptly, favorite of the servant class and is an efcient artisan. Brihat Jataka, Chapter 18, verse 11,
Varahamihira
Venus Through the Signs
This is not an article about the effects of the natural characteristics of the Signs on Venus. A planet, in addition
to being inuenced by the Sign it is place within, will ALSO give the effects of the number of houses counted
from its Moolatrikona sign and the number of houses counted from the planet to its feminine sign. This is the
initiative/receptive dynamic within the planet. The masculine or Moolatrikona sign initiates the energy and the
feminine sign receives the energy.
Venus is the ruler of the natural 2
nd
and 7
th
houses, Taurus and Libra. The 2
nd
house is worth and the 7
th
house
is desire. The ultimate desire being for the other or for a romantic partner. Thus, Venus rules desire and the
choices we make to obtain our desires. Venus also rules weighing what is more worthwhile in order to obtain
what is desired. Libra, the moolatrikona sign of Venus, is represented by the Scales. When Venus is aficted in
a chart, the person makes poor decisions that take them down a path they do not want to go, and where the
amount they must give up is not worth what they would receive.
There is more than one name given for Venus in the classical texts. Shukra is the most common and it means
bright white. Another name for Venus iskamawhich means desire. Venus is also Kritajna or
knowledgeable in conduct. Thus Venus rules manners and politeness. Manners are necessary to navigate the
world of others and have ones desires fullled. Dinavegya means offering to the miserable and is another
name for Venus. Whatever is offered to the miserable is to make them more comfortable, thus Venus rules all
comforts, nursing and therapy. Venus also rules upayes or remedies for afictions in the chart.
Keep all that Venus represents in mind while evaluating its effects in the Signs. The Signs in which Venus is
deposited, in addition to its position in regards to the Moolatikona will color and control all the effects of Venus
within the horoscope.
Venus is Aries
In addition to the natural indications of Aries, Venus here will give the effects of a 2
nd
and 7
th
house Venus.
Aries is 7 houses away from Libra, the Moolatrikona sign of Venus and counting from Venus, Taurus is the 2
nd

Sign from Aries. For Taurus, the feminine sign ruled by Venus, we always start counting from Venus rst,
because the feminine sign receives the energy and the masculine sign initiates the energy. Venus in Aries people
enjoy the give and take of relationships and are almost always in one. They are sensitive and respectful of their
partners and highly sensual. They have beautiful manners when dealing with others. The 2
nd
house Venus
connotations will give make these natives be receptive to romantic partners with beautiful faces. Comfort and
decoram play a major part in their lives. They react strongly to beautiful words and speech and can appreciate
good food. These natives nd much value in the beauty of their surroundings and have an eye for ne art. A
man with Venus in Aries will have a wife or girlfriend who has problems with subservient workers, servants,
maids and physical labor (Saturn is debilitated in Aries). He will also have a wife or girlfriend who has great
luck with her bosses, the government, politicians and benets greatly from her father (the Sun is exalted in
Aries).
Venus in Taurus
Venus in Taurus gives 8
th
and 1
st
house connotations in addition to the natural effects of Taurus. 8
th
house
connotations because Taurus is the 8
th
Sign from Libra, Venus Moolatrikona sign and 1
st
house connotations
because Venus is in Taurus is in its own feminine sign. Venus in Taurus will initiate romance in a secretive,
hidden fashion. They will be attracted to romantic partners who are also secretive and mysterious. They will
nd much value in the hidden, occult side of life. They often nd that they transform themselves through
relationships. They are naturally able to benet from their partners resources. Relationships often have abrupt
endings. These natives are well-groomed and take care of their appearance. They are on the receiving end of
much nurturing and comforting within relationships. Receiving love and the results of their choices directly
affects their self-esteem. A man with Venus in Taurus will have a wife or girlfriend who benets greatly from
her mother and has a wonderful relationship with her mother (the Moon is exalted in Taurus).
Venus in Gemini
This Venus has 9
th
and 12
th
house connotations. Venus in Gemini will initiate romance, nurturing and decision-
making through a philosophical or religious platform (9
th
house). They are also very attracted to and desiring of
these qualities. When they make a choice, it is often after considering how it will benet their higher learning
and wisdom. These natives may also incur expenses while being on the receptive end of a relationship. The
consequences of their decisions will cause them to incur expense also and they more often than not will have to
give something up to receive in their relationships. Venus in Gemini people will often nd that foreigners are
attracted to them. Sometimes their love interests are kept secret or hidden away. There is an inclination
towards clandestine affairs but Venus would have to be very aficted by aspect or low in Sthana bala or Cheshta
bala for the illicit nature to manifest.
Venus in Cancer
Venus in Cancer carries 10
th
and 11
th
house connotations in addition to the natural characteristics of Cancer.
This placement of Venus will initiate romance, nurturing and decision making based upon duty. The 10
th
house
is the house of karma or action and these natives often initiate their romances instead of being on the receiving
end of someones affections. Venus in Cancer will make a career out of helming the relationship and of
nurturing the partner. They are often on the receiving end of friendship oriented crushes from others. Because
the interested party always presents themselves as a friend, the Venus in Cancer person is obliged to initiate the
relationship. The 11
th
house connotations on the receiving end of the Venus in Cancer person will cause this
native to be drawn to nurturing friends. The friends will also be consulted on a regular basis in important
decisions by this native. Social life is of immense value to this person as well. Often, the results of decisions
are nancial or material gain. A man with Venus in Cancer will have a wife who has had abusive or anger-
prone siblings and trouble with real-estate (Mars debilitated in Cancer) but at the same time, she will also have a
very good husband (the native himself and Jupiter is exalted in Cancer) and that she has very good fortune when
it comes to the realm of higher learning, philosophy, religion and teachers. She is also generally happy and
philosophical if Venus is not aficted.
Venus in Leo
Venus in Leo natives initiate relationships and decisions based upon what they have to gain from it. Venus in
Leo often nd that their partners have a lot to bring to the table either in wealth, resources, beauty or
knowledge. The Venus in Leo person is inherently attracted to these types of people, people who stand out in
some way. These natives will utilize friendship and social interaction as their main force when beginning and
sustaining relationships. The inherent value of the relationship will be based upon the friendly feelings between
the two people and the ability of the couple to social climb and be recognized in social circles. Venus in Leo
natives will nd that they are often showered with love and devotion that they very much enjoy unless Venus is
aficted. This is because Taurus is 10 Signs away from Leo and they are on the receiving end of romance in a
10
th
house fashion. Their partners will make a career out of the relationship and nurturing the relationship
Venus in Virgo
Venus is Virgo has 12
th
and 9
th
house connotations. Virgo is the debilitation sign of Venus. Venus in Virgo
natives will initiate their decision-making process in a vague, hidden manner. They are often unaware of why
they made a certain choice. Loss is the catalyst for entering into relationships and they often enter them just for
sexual gratication (12
th
house). When they initiate a decision, they must almost always give up something
before they can obtain what they desire. In addition to this, the idea of self-negation drives them in their choice
of mate. This is why Venus is debilitated in this sign. Venus has to do with worth and if you are coming from a
place of loss or thinking of devaluing yourself (12
th
house) in order to have a relationship, then you are going
against the very nature of Venus as a karaka. Venus in Virgo natives are often the object of desire for
philosophical, religious types and also their mentors and teachers. The consequences of their decisions will
affect their higher knowledge, their philosophy of life, and their spirituality. A man with Venus in Virgo will
have a wife or girlfriend who benets greatly from her friends and who has many skills. She will also be very
articulate. (Mercury is exalted in Virgo).
Venus in Libra
These natives have characteristics of the 1
st
and 8
th
houses. Venus in Libra will initiate its Venusian energy
(partnership, relation, making choices and comforting, nurturing) through their body language and personal
charisma. The native is polite, charming and well-mannered, gives good advice and has a soothing, comforting
demeanor. The native will receive romance, nurturing and the consequences of their decisions through 8
th

house venues. This means through mysterious, hidden and taboo channels. They will often become caught up
in secret trysts. The resources and wealth of the partner serve to nurture and comfort this native. A man with
Venus in Libra will often get a wife or girlfriend who has a less than stellar relationship with her father (the Sun
is debilitated in Libra) but very good luck with servants, tenants, and/or subservient workers. A woman with
Venus in Libra will often get caught up in romances that are very long-term (Saturn exalted in Libra) but that
lack stability and consistency (the Sun debilitated in Libra).
Venus in Scorpio
The native with this placement initiates relationships, decisions and comfort producing activities through the
agent of their wealth. This person likes to feel stable within their own self-worth and nancial situation and
uses this to choose their partners and romantic interests. When they are trying to decide if something is
worthwhile, the Venus in Scorpio person will calculate how it will add to their value. They are attracted to
partners will beautiful faces. These people receive Venusian energy from partners that are highly sexual (7
th

house). When the partner wants to nurture and comfort the Venus in Scorpio person, they do it through sex.
The consequences of the decisions made by the Venus in Scorpio natives will often lead them into relationships
and/or dealing with business partners. The consequences of their choices will also have a wide ranging effect
on the people in their lives. A man with Venus in Scorpio will have a wife or girlfriend that was abused by her
mother either emotionally or physically or had a mother that was not present. The woman with Venus in
Scorpio will have romances that are full of heavy emotionality and some paranoia.
Venus in Sagittarius
These natives have a Venus with 3
rd
and 6
th
house connotations. Venus in Sagittarius will initiate relationships
out of a curiosity. They will be playful and love to go on adventures with their partner. When they make
decisions and weigh the worth of something, they look to how much excitement it will bring them. The 3
rd

house is all about communication so these natives enjoy picking partners that they will be able to effectively
communicate with. They are often on the receiving end of love interests that enjoy argument and sparing.
Venus in Sagittarius is not the most auspicious place for Venus because the 6
th
house is the house of divorce.
Many times, these natives will attract partners that turn out to be their enemies and do not have their best
interests at heart. The consequences of their decisions often wind them up in debt. But they can benet a lot
from their decisions through the agency of their health.
Venus in Capricorn
The native with Venus in Capricorn will have 4
th
and 5
th
house characteristics to his/her Venus. This Venus will
initiate relationships to nd happiness and from deep emotional need. Nurturing others and making worthwhile
decisions are an integral ingredient to their happiness. The 4
th
house is also a hidden house, so when the person
is interested in someone romantically, they will show their interest very subtly and the object of their affection
must be tuned in to their emotions. The Venus in Capricorn person receives love from others in a grand,
romantic fashion (5
th
house). The partner of the Venus in Capricorn person will be very creative in the way
they express their devotion. The consequences of decisions made by Venus in Capricorn people will often lead
them into some kind of creativity and the opportunity to express their creativity will weigh heavily on the
decisions they make. Also, if they have children, these children will always be taken into consideration when
making decisions. A man with Venus in Capricorn will have a wife or girlfriend that has ill luck with teachers,
mentors, philosophy and/or religion, and money. (Jupiter is debilitated in Capricorn)
Venus in Aquarius
Venus in Aquarius gives 5
th
and 4
th
house effects, exactly like Venus in Capricorn, however the initiative/
receptive dynamic is reversed. Venus in Aquarius will initiate relationships and maintain them very creatively,
and in an over-the-top romantic way. Before making decisions, they weigh how it will improve their creativity.
Partners that are attracted to the Venus in Aquarius person will show their affections clandestinely, deeply
emotionally. This native naturally attracts very nurturing partners. There are no planets that are exalted or
debilitated in Aquarius, so reading some life experiences of the wife or girlfriend for the man with Venus in
Aquarius does not apply.
Venus in Pisces
This is Venus exalted position. This is odd because Venus will give 6
th
and 3
rd
house effects here.
Interestingly, such characteristics reveal the naturally cruel nature of Venus. After all, the avatar for Venus is
Parasurama, an avatar that is known for his killing. And Venus is the guru of the demons. Venus in Pisces
people will initiate relationships from an inimical standpoint, meaning they will love to challenge their partner.
Verbal sparring will be their method of amorous fraternizing. Venus in Pisces people will attract partners who
are interested in adventure and are very curious about them. There will be much indecisiveness when making a
decision for these natives. The enemies of a Venus in Pisces native will have much to do with the choices this
native makes. And he or she often nds that the consequences of such choices will lead them into their own
hobbies, travel and self-expression. The man with Venus in Pisces will have a wife or girlfriend that has trouble
and ill luck with her friends and has issues with communication (Mercury debilitated in Pisces)