And finally, here comes the last planet in this series; yes, for now we will not talk about Rahu and Ketu. Saturn, also known and recognized as a ringed planet, is the most talked about among the nine planets. It is a very slow moving planet. Saturn takes between 28 and 30 years to complete its orbit of the zodiac, which means about two and a half years to pass through each zodiac. Slow movement makes it a difficult planet to live with when it enters your zodiac. He is known as ‘Shani’ in Vedic astrology.
Saturn is a masculine planet and rules both Capricorn and Aquarius. In the natal chart, it rules the tenth and eleventh houses. Its direction is west, the day is Saturday, the color is black, the metal is iron, and the gem is blue sapphire.
According to some Vedic scriptures, Saturn is the son of the Sun planet, but both of them are enemies with each other due to some misunderstanding between them. Therefore, Saturn and Sun reflect the relationship between son and father in the natal chart.
Astrologically, Saturn is very different from other planets. It is due to the harsh and rough traits associated with it. While other planets deal with the concept of marriage, children, occupation, property, parents, siblings, and wisdom; Saturn is our ‘code of conduct’ for this lifetime. He is considered as the master of our lives. It teaches us discipline, responsibility, patience, penance, limitation, and hard work. In fact, restrictions, limitations and delays are the province of this planet. This planet does not give you anything easily; you have to earn it. Sometimes, it can be really frustrating, however, you have to live with it. Learning the lessons of life is key for this planet. Don’t forget the slow movement of Saturn, hard times stick around longer.
If it is well placed in your natal chart, it grants spirituality, wisdom, leadership ability and long life. If placed incorrectly, it can lead to delays, disappointments, and despondency.
Saturn is the only planet in Vedic astrology that has two unique and significant periods of two and a half years and seven and a half years respectively. You may have to go through many difficulties and tests during the occurrence of these two time periods depending on the location of Saturn in the natal chart.
The following simple Vedic rituals can be performed to minimize the ill effects of this planet:
- Saturday is the day when Saturn bestows benefits on devotees who worship him.
- Black is the color loved by this planet. Wear black on Saturdays.
- Mustard oil is a very important part of rituals related to Saturn. Donate mustard oil on any Saturday to appease Saturn Planet.
- Wearing a blue sapphire on any Saturday, on the middle finger, is considered favorable to Saturn.