Rahu and Ketu the north and south nodes of the moon are probably the most interesting profound and mysterious of all planetary influences in Vedic astrology. As the dragon s head and the dragon s tail of western astrological thought the two nodes represent powerful psychic forces beyond our personal control or understanding They deal with the secret hidden eccentric spiritual or perverse sides of life-the higher and lower ranges of human activity beyond the normal scope covered by the seven major planets. The nodes are closely connected to world events and global trends-the broader streams of destiny and the collective influences that can overwhelm our personal karma including destructive occurrences like wars or plagues. They are also key indicators of future social developments. For example the mass media relates to Rahu which represents new popular and expansive trends while much of the cutting edge of science and technology like computers relates to Ketu which represents insight precision and unlocking the secrets of nature. In this regard Rahu and Ketu have a place in Vedic astrology similar to that of the outer planets of Uranus Neptune and Pluto in western astrology which are also used for collective phenomenon. Rahu comes from the Sanskrit root rah meaning to hide and refers to what is secret mysterious and profound or a cave. Rahu obscures or protects and indicates Maya which is not only illusion but also any magical power or captivating knowledge. Ketu comes from the root ci meaning to highlight appear or become consciousness or a flag. Prash Trivedi offers what is probably the longest most researched and most original book on Rahu and Ketu published in modern times. He has studied the classics thoroughly and understands the ancient symbolism of the nodes which he explains with great lucidity. But he is no mere repeater of old information.