Fundamentals of Vedic Astrology continues....

The first classification is that the 9 planets are divided into two groups based on their nature.

Group 1 also referred to as Daivya (Godly/Divine) consists of Sun, Moon,
Jupiter, and Mars .

Group 2 also referred to as Asura (Demoniacal) consists of Saturn, Venus, Mercury, Rahu and Ketu The second classification of planets are into the groups of benefic (in general those that bless with positive and auspicious results, they are also referred to as soft planets) and malefic (In general that give negative results and also referred to as hard planets)

Benefic Planets

Jupiter, Moon, Venus and Mercury

Malefic Planets

Sun (considered as a functional malefic), Saturn, Mars, Rahu and Ketu. With the help of a basic table we shall try to understand the relationship of planets with each other.

The above table gives interesting data and insights. Note that Moon is not an enemy with any planet but Venus and Saturn are enemies with Moon. Saturn is enemy to Mars but Mars is neutral towards Saturn.

HOW PLANETS BEHAVE IN EACH SIGN-IMPACT OF PLACEMENT

When a planet occupies a sign it can have the following states-It can be exalted, it can be in mooltrikona, own sign, in a friends sign, neutral sign, enemy sign and debilitation.

Listed below is the order where planets are most comfortable to least comfortable. In one way you can also say this is an order in which planets give results from Positive to middling to Negative.

- Exaltation
- Mooltrikona
- Own Sign
- Friendly sign
- Neutral Sign
- Enemy sign
- Debilitation

When a planet is exalted it gives the best results and when it is debilitated it is in its worst state. The table below illustrates the strength of planets in different signs.

There are considerable differences amongst sages regarding Rahu and Ketu. The data given above is in accordance to the Brihat Parasher Hora Shastra of Sage Parasher and this data I have found to be accurate and reliable in my practice.

To be continued.....