Nature and Significations of the Moon

Chandra - The Mirror of the Mind

The Moon (Chandra) is the manas - the mind itself. In Vedic astrology the Moon is arguably the most important personal planet: the birth nakshatra (the Moon's nakshatra at birth) determines the Vimshottari Dasha sequence, and the Chandra Lagna (Moon as ascendant) is used alongside the natal ascendant for interpretation.

Core Significations

Planetary Nature

The Moon is a natural benefic when waxing (from New Moon to Full Moon) and a natural malefic when waning. Traditionally the Moon is considered strong when it is more than 72 degrees away from the Sun (past the first quarter phase). At Full Moon it is at peak strength.

A strong, well-placed Moon gives emotional stability, intuition, compassion, and a nurturing personality. A weak or afflicted Moon can indicate anxiety, emotional instability, relationship issues with the mother, and difficulties related to home and roots.

Elemental Quality

The Moon is a water element (Jala) planet. It governs flow, receptivity, reflection, and the tidal rhythms of life.

The Moon's Special Role

The Moon changes signs every 2.25 days (roughly), completing the zodiac in about 27.3 days (sidereal month). Because of this speed it is the most personal and immediate of the grahas, describing the fluctuating texture of daily experience.