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6° 40’ Tula – 20° 00’ Tula In the Sky
”Swati” is, once again, among few asterisms which are represented by a single star. Its representative is a yellowish star, commonly known as Arcturus (Alpha Bootis). It is central star of constellation of Bootis, which can be said to lie on top of gateway formed between Kanya and Tula. However, as we can see, this asterism occupies heart of Tula and has nothing to do with Kanya. With a visual magnitude of 0.16, Arcturus is third brightest among stars in night sky, and can be spotted even in polluted skies over big metropolitan cities. Ancient Vedic Seers associated a lot of importance to this bright star and saw it as abode of Saraswati, goddess of learning.
Name
Swati, like other Sanskrit terms, evokes a wide variety of English meanings – ”independent”, ”self-going”, ”good goer”, ”sword”, ”self-blowing”, ”delicate” and ”tender”. Each of these meanings relay a different side of this asterism’s nature and functionings.
Symbol
Its symbol is a ”young plant shoot blown by wind”. Wind symbolism suggests airy quality of this asterism, which promotes restlessness, adaptability, dexterity and a roming disposition.
Young plant symbolism suggests delicacy. This is reason why this asterism strives for strength and independence, just like a young plant shoot strives for maturity. Air is balancing element among five interacting elements in nature. This Nakshatra is balancing pivot of zodiac, in sense that it is middle most Nakshatra, with 13 Nakshatras on either side. It represents atmospheric aspect, where there’s neither a lull nor a storm, and a gentle breeze is blowing. Swati thus represents period of our lives, where smooth sailing takes place.
In ancient Vedic texts, wind also suggests an idea of force and ability to move things, like clouds. This implies that even though gentle, Swati is capable of applying force whenever required. Young delicate sapling is always growing to become a strong sturdy tree, which has very little to fear from nature’s pressures, like weather and animals.
A ”coral” is alternative symbol of this Nakshatra. Coral is a plant which makes its progeny out of its own body, like bacteria and other microorganisms. In same way, Swati’s creativity comes out of parting with a piece of itself. It is common knowledge that coral relates to Mangal. Swati has no direct correlation with Mangal, but through coral a connection is established. Just like wind gets impetus to move through imbalance between heat and cold, Swati gets its extraordinary mobility, energy and strength from heating effect of Mangal.
Swati falls in cardinal, achievement-oriented Rasi of Tula. This is why ”a sword” is also seen as a symbol of this Nakshatra, to represent its cutting, fiery quality. In a way, it can be said, that in time this asterism transforms from delicate young plant shoot into a hard and strong, razor sharp sword. Thus those with prominent Swati in their charts are late bloomers and have a stronger second half of life as compared to first half.
Deity
Its main presiding deity is ”Vayu”, god of wind. He is one of five main gods residing in Swanga (heavenly astral plane), who are responsible for taking care of five main elements of nature - earth, wind, fire, water & ether. All of Vayu’s qualities, especially those relevant to earthly plane, can be seen manifested through Hanuman, son of Vayu and one of central characters in Vedic epic ”Ramayana”. Hanuman’s qualities, like extreme strength, morality, strong sense of ethics, moderation, fairness, resourcefulness, intelligence, wisdom, sense of propriety, loyalty and ability to serve without letting ego come in way, apply to highest aspect of Swati’s functioning,
”Ramayana” tells us that Hanuman was never consciously aware of his own prowess, unless reminded of it by others. Swati, in same way, is quite humble in its disposition and needs to be told about its potential, for it to be able to express itself. This quality can be associated with its planetary Lord Rahu. Rahu, as a Graha, represents potential that is hidden from us, which we need to discover in present life.
It is Hanuman’s extreme loyalty and devotion to Rama (main character from ”Ramayana”), which still remains strongest example of unconditional and unselfish service in hearts and minds of people, influenced by Vedic way of thinking. It is no wonder then that Graha of service, Sani, reaches maximum exaltation in Swati. Bheema, one of central characters in Mahabharata, is also a son of Vayu (one must remember that in those days gods were still copulating with humans). He is a character similar to that of Hanuman, except that his qualities were not as sterling as that of Hanuman. This is, however, to be expected, as ages had changed from Treta (Silver) to Dwapar (Bronze).
Swati’s relation to Saraswati, goddess of music and learning, reveals higher nature of this asterism, which is conducive for all sorts of learning - material, philosophical or spiritual. Just like its planetary Lord Rahu, when functioning through its higher aspect, this Nakshatra is eager and open to learning - a rare quality.
Nature & Functioning
”Balance” is keyword for natives born under strong influence of this Nakshatra. Balance is a double edged sword and many Swati types are seen to avoid taking any stance on any matter, due to their extreme need to maintain harmony. Only very evolved Swati types are capable of decisive action. Extreme procrastination is one of worst traits of this Nakshatra. Inconclusive thinking is a feature which is apparent here more than any other Nakshatra. Swati’s openness to new thoughts and ideas make it ideal for all types of learning, but only a few acquire mastery over their chosen field.
In its lower aspect, Swati is most airy fairy amongst Nakshatras. Swati natives always have to be conscious of growing towards a more stable centre and still this process usually takes a long time. Swati is usually in no hurry to achieve its objectives, and this is reason why Sani finds maximum exaltation here. Emphasis here is on long-term planning. Most Swati natives are usually very good at sowing seeds for future, but only a few of them stick around to nurture seed into a full grown tree.
Swati natives usually have slim and elegantly proportioned bodies. They can be easily spotted in group situations with a continuously fixed smile on their faces. Because of emphasis of Sukr and Rahu, Swati natives are born diplomats. They are socialites of zodiac. They usually go to any lengths to fit into prevalent social and cultural structures. They are strong advocates of social etiquettes, courtesies and civilized behavior. They use their social charm to climb ladder of success. Their catchphrase is ”Who am I to blow against wind?”. It is this quality which makes them lose their inner centre and blindly follow mass trends. Often very intelligent Swati types behave in same way, even after attaining a clear understanding of worthlessness of trying to please everyone all time.
”Swati” translates into ”independent” or ”self-going”. These meanings are self-explanatory, as this asterism promotes individuality. However, this individuality is different from individuality furthered by Surya’s influence, as Surya has its maximum debilitation in this asterism. It is not a soul level individuality, but a more mental and material individuality based upon some skill or talent developed on these planes.
Many of world’s richest men are born with either Chandr or other significant Grahas placed in this asterism. Working through its lower plane, this asterism can be overtly indulgent and function without any regard for morals. Law, sex and money - three major ”libran” signification, form an integral part of activities of this asterism.
Mode of Functioning
It is supposed to be a passive Nakshatra. This obviously relates to its naturally shy and gentle quality. Swati is more of a ”wait and watch”, rather than a ”run and get it” type of Nakshatra. As we have already discussed, it is a patient energy, which is ready to wait for things to fall into place together, rather than aggressively put them in place itself.
Caste
It belongs to butcher caste. It is hard to visualize what ancient Seers were trying to convey through this classification. In our opinion, it must relate to destructive and ruthless side of Swati. Even wind can be a highly destructive and unforgiving force when it takes form of tempest, cyclones and tornadoes. Swati, as we have discussed earlier, is quite ruthless in its approach, especially when it gains strength and power over passage of time.
Gender
It is a female Nakshatra. Swati represents female aspect of its planetary Lord Rahu. It is directly associated with Saraswati, goddess of music and learning.
Body Parts & Humor
Body part it relates to is chest, which emphasizes its connection with air element and process of breathing. On astral level, this is related to flow of Prana (life force) through body.
Its constitutional type is ”Kapha” (watery). This classification stems from fact that all of this Nakshatra lies in predominantly Kapha Rasi of Tula.
Direction
It is connected with West, South-West and South-East.
Padas
First Pada of this asterism (6° 40’ - 10° 00’ Tula) falls in Dhanur Navamsa and is ruled by Guru. This Pada epitomizes restless and inquisitive aspect of Swati. It gives talent in writing, communications, and promotes all kinds of travel. All Grahas give reasonably favorable results in this Pada, because of its eager and open-minded nature.
Second Pada of this asterism (10° 00’ - 13° 20’ Tula) falls in Makara Navamsa and is ruled by Sani. This Pada embodies material aspect of Swati’s functioning. It is most rooted among four Padas, and thus to an extent lacks Swati’s inherent fragility. Concerns here are stability and material growth. It can be deemed as selfish when it comes to personal comforts and other forms of materiality. Grahas here give a sound business sense.
Third Pada of this asterism (13° 20’ - 16° 40’ Tula) falls in Kumbha Navamsa ruled by Sani. This is most intellectual amongst four Padas of Swati. Emphasis here is on learning, creativity and cooperation. Grahas here encourage any kind of group work, in order to achieve one’s chosen goals. Budh, Sukr and Sani are especially strong in this Pada.
Fourth Pada of this asterism (16° 40’ - 20° 00’ Tula) falls in Meena Navamsa ruled by Guru. This is most flexible and adaptable amongst Swati’s Padas. We have already seen that Swati’s key to success lies in blowing with wind, and this Pada is best suited for that. Being Pushkara Navamsa Pada, it promises success through hard work, ingenuity, flexibility and sociability. Grahas here might seem flimsy in their approach, but are service orientated and hardworking. All Grahas, except Budh, give good results here.
Professions
Businessmen and tradespeople of all types; wrestlers; all sports, especially those relying on breath control; singers; musicians playing wind instruments, like horns & organ; researchers; inventors; technology experts; independent enterprises; government related service professions; aeronautical industry; pilots; professions connected with aviation industry; transportation industry; socialites; professions involving use of speech, like newsreaders etc.; computer & software industry; professions requiring flexibility & quick ingenuity; serving professions like housekeepers & right-hand-man types; kite makers; adventure sports people like skydivers, balloonists etc.; educators, teachers; lawyers; judges; politicians; trade-union & working class leaders; diplomats, hosts, hostesses.
Places
High cliffs; places where winds blow strongly; agricultural land; coral reefs; marketplaces; business centers; banks; financial institutions; sport complexes; airports (both civil & military); educational institutions; aeronautical facilities & testing grounds; computer & software related centres; research facilities of all types; diplomatic enclaves like embassies, consulates etc.; parliament houses; courthouses; commuter places like train & bus stations etc.
Guna & Tatva
Rahu’s venusian side is usually quite materialistic, which makes this asterism Rajasic (materially active). It is best Nakshatra for business and other financially profitable activities, as it always keeps its own interests above everything else.
It belongs to fire element. Fact that it is fiery reveals a hitherto unknown aspect of Rahu, which is predominantly an airy and earthy Graha. This fieriness relates to inherent motivation of this asterism, which can range from learning to acquiring financial gain, to getting worldly prominence.
Gana
It is considered a Deva (godly) Nakshatra. Its godly nature stems from fact that this asterism is very conducive to all types of learning. Rahu, its Lord, is significator of knowledge, and this aspect of its nature finds expression through this Nakshatra.
Orientation & Disposition
It is a level Nakshatra. Falling in heart of Tula, it has a balancing quality. It thus relays diplomatic, pleasing side of Rahu. It can always compromise to achieve its eventual ends. It can be seen as a combined Sukr and Rahu energy and relays venusian side of Rahu’s functioning. This makes it good in most venusian related pursuits, like music.
It is a moveable Nakshatra. Its moveable nature is borne out of its close association with air element through Grahas Rahu and Sani. As discussed earlier, its ruling deity Vayu corresponds to wind, which is one of constantly moving elements in nature.
Lunar Month & Tithi
It relates to last 9 days of lunar month of ”Chaitra”, which usually falls in late April, early May.
Swati is also related to Saptami (7th Tithi) of waxing and waning phases of Chandr’s monthly cycle.
Auspicious Activities
Good for business & trade activities; recommended for starting any educational venture; good for learning in general; social activities & events; dealing with public; financial transactions; all activities which require a calm & flexible approach; key here is to blow with wind; grooming and self adornment; buying and selling in general; actions where diplomacy is required; pursuing arts & sciences.
Inauspicious Activities
Not good for travel; fierce or warlike activities; any type of aggressive behavior is not likely to pay off in this Nakshatra.
Lords
Rahu is primary Lord of this asterism and its airy qualities are relayed through it. There is a strong urge for comfort and luxury when Rahu is manifesting its energies on an earthy plane. Earth is secondary element of Rahu. Since Swati falls completely in Rasi of Tula, Sukr has a strong connection with this asterism. Rahu - Sukr influence together is a highly indulgent combination, which gives a strong urge for comfort and luxury. A love of show and pomp is seen when Rahu is functioning through its lower aspect. As discussed earlier, Swati natives often appreciate finer things in life and uphold a certain degree of sophistication in their dress, mannerisms and tastes.
Primarily materialistic energy of Rahu and Sukr combined gives Swati natives success in venusian business pursuits. In its negative aspect, natives under heavy influence of this Nakshatra can become a slave to their desires and are guided by greed and deceit to gain their ends.
Rahu has a diplomatic nature, which is very similar to that of Sukr. Rahu, like Sukr, is by nature a social Graha and enjoys company. Swati, in this regard, can be most pretentious among Nakshatras. Rahu is supposed to give an artistic temperament in much same way as Sukr, but as always with Rahu, there is a touch of unorthodoxy involved. Rahu’s venusian side is highlighted in any horoscope when it is either associated with Sukr in a nativity, or is placed in 2nd / 7th Bhava, or is posited in Rasis Vrisabha / Tula.
In its higher aspect, Swati natives express higher venusian qualities, like diplomacy, compassion and a thirst for knowledge. Rahu is also very much capable of manifesting highest venusian energies, like universal love, compassion and harmony, when working through its higher principle.
Rahu, Budh, Sukr and Sani give strong results in Swati. Surya and Mangal are a little out of sorts here, while Ketu’s energy is incompatible with energies of this Nakshatra. Guru and Chandr are neutral and give results according to other factors in a nativity.
Vowels & Alphabets
First Pada of this asterism (6° 40’ - 10° 00’ Tula) corresponds to ”Ru” as in Ruth.
Second Pada of this asterism (10° 00’ - 13° 20’ Tula) corresponds to ”Re” as in Rex.
Third Pada of this asterism (13° 20’ - 16° 40’ Tula) corresponds to ”Ro” as in Robin.
Fourth Pada of this asterism (16° 40’ - 20° 00’ Tula) corresponds to ”Ta” as in Tanya.
In Sanskrit alphabet, Swati corresponds to ”Da” (pronounced as ”The”) and consequently its Mantra is ”Om Dam”.
Sexual Type & Compatibility
Its sexual animal is a buffalo. This makes it fertile and it likes to play a dominant role in sexual activity. This Nakshatra is often prone to exploit mild forms of sex and sexuality for business purposes. Swati can be said to be more of a tease rather than a whore.
For sexual & marital compatibility with other Nakshatras, please refer to tables at end of this document.
Esoteric
Swati represents equilibrium point of everything. It represents midpoint of our lives, life of Universe and everything that exists. It is midpoint between expansion and contraction. It is point where Universe stops expanding and begins contracting. It lies directly opposite Ashwini, a Nakshatra which can be seen as ”big bang” which created material Universe.
In our bodies, Swati relates to five vital Pranas or airs. These airs form an interface between astral and corporeal body. It is these airs which are normally referred to as life force within us. Preliminary spiritual practices, like Pranayama, are meant to create an equilibrium between these five vital airs, so that mind can remain free from ripples when real meditative process begins. Swati relates to immense potential of these body airs, which, when utilized properly, as done by Sages in ages gone by, allowed them to meditate unhindered for thousands of years and have lifespans which exceeded lifespans of ages.
In universal scheme of things, Swati relates to ”Pradhvamsa Shakti” - power to disperse like wind. Its symbolism has roaming around above and change of form below. Relationship of Swati with air element is stressed here. Maya element of Swati lies in its ability to adjust itself to any situation or circumstance without losing its own essence. Its free, detached, observant quality makes it easy for it to scatter away any negative buildup on any level of being. Swati can be seen as universal vacuum cleaner.
Gotra
This Nakshatra is related to Sage Marichi one of seven celestial Sages looking after affairs of our galaxy. Name of this Sage translates into ”light”. ”Lightness” (as in swiftness) aspect of this Sage seems to connect well with Swati, considering that air is a light element.
Remedial
For those suffering from bad effects resulting from afflictions to this Nakshatra, best remedial measure is worship of Saraswati.
Repetition of root Mantras of this Nakshatra - ”Om Lam”, ”Om Ksham”, ”Om Am” and ”Om Aam” 108 times when Chandr transits this Nakshatra and in its corresponding lunar month, is sure to reduce suffering and bring enlightenment into a person’s life.
Persons who are benefiting from positive energy of this Nakshatra can also increase good effects through above mentioned ways. It is helpful for them to wear all light, variegated colors and pastel shades. They should use its directions, lunar month and days when Chandr transits Swati, to undertake all important actions.
Example
Like many commercial king pins, Nelson Rockefeller has his Chandr placed in Swati. In his chart, Chandr is Lord of 11th Bhava and is placed in his 2nd Bhava, thus influencing both of his financial Bhavas. It is only in case of Kanya Lagnas like Nelson, can one see extent of material power inherent in Chandr’s placement in Swati.
Mark Twain, famous author and social commentator, was born with his Lagna, Budh and Sani in Swati. In his case, Swati’s intellectual and cognitive side finds expression. It is generally seen that Budh has to be connected with Swati in some form for Saraswati aspect of Swati to find expression.
Miscellaneous
According to Varahamihira, those born with Chandr in Swati are ”pleasant in speech, have a self-controlled nature and compassionate ways. Person is a merchant with principles”.
