In Vedic Jyotish, the motion of planets is a critical concept that influences predictions and interpretations. Planets exhibit different types of motion, such as direct, retrograde, and stationary, which affect their strength and impact in a horoscope. Here’s a detailed explanation along with examples in tabular form:
Planetary Motion
Types of Planetary Motion
- Direct Motion: Planets move forward through the zodiac in their natural order.
- Example: Jupiter transiting from Aries to Taurus in direct motion signifies growth and expansion in areas governed by Taurus.
- Retrograde Motion: Planets appear to move backward in the zodiac due to the relative positions of Earth and the planet.
- Example: Mercury retrograde often brings communication delays and misunderstandings.
- Stationary Motion: Planets appear to pause before changing direction (direct to retrograde or vice versa).
- Example: Saturn stationary before retrograde can intensify its effects on discipline and karma.
- Orbital Speed Variations: Planets have varying speeds, with the Moon being the fastest and Saturn the slowest.
- Example: The Moon completes its transit through all 12 Rashis in approximately 27.5 days, while Saturn takes about 30 years.
Here is an updated table detailing the motion of planets, including their motion per day and zodiac motion:
| Planet | Type of Motion | Motion Per Day | Zodiac Motion | Retrograde Period | Example |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sun (Surya) | Direct | ~1° per day | Completes zodiac in 1 year | Never retrograde | Moves through Aries, bringing vitality and leadership qualities. |
| Moon (Chandra) | Direct | ~13° per day | Completes zodiac in ~27.5 days | Never retrograde | Transits Cancer, enhancing emotional sensitivity. |
| Mars (Mangal) | Direct/Retrograde | ~0.5° per day | Completes zodiac in ~2 years | ~2 months every 2 years | Retrograde in Scorpio intensifies passion and hidden desires. |
| Mercury (Budha) | Direct/Retrograde | ~1° per day | Completes zodiac in ~1 year | ~3 weeks, 3-4 times a year | Retrograde in Gemini causes communication challenges. |
| Jupiter (Guru) | Direct/Retrograde | ~0.08° per day | Completes zodiac in ~12 years | ~4 months annually | Retrograde in Sagittarius promotes philosophical introspection. |
| Venus (Shukra) | Direct/Retrograde | ~1° per day | Completes zodiac in ~1 year | ~40 days every 18 months | Retrograde in Libra affects relationships and aesthetics. |
| Saturn (Shani) | Direct/Retrograde | ~0.03° per day | Completes zodiac in ~30 years | ~4.5 months annually | Retrograde in Capricorn emphasizes karmic lessons. |
| Rahu | Retrograde | ~0.05° per day | Completes zodiac in ~18 years | Continuous | Retrograde in Taurus intensifies material desires. |
| Ketu | Retrograde | ~0.05° per day | Completes zodiac in ~18 years | Continuous | Retrograde in Scorpio deepens spiritual pursuits. |
Key Observations:
- Fastest Planet: The Moon moves the fastest, completing the zodiac in just 27.5 days.
- Slowest Planet: Saturn takes approximately 30 years to complete its journey through the zodiac.
- Retrograde Motion: Retrograde periods vary by planet, with Mercury retrograding most frequently.
Importance of Planetary Motion
- Retrograde Planets: Often signify internalized energy and karmic lessons.
- Direct Planets: Represent outward expression and progress.
- Stationary Planets: Amplify their influence during the pause.
