Question

In the classification of natural planetary friendship (Naisargika Maitrī), which of the following planets is said to have NO enemies (Śatru-bhāva) whatsoever?

• A. Sun (Sūryaḥ)
• B. Moon (Candraḥ)
• C. Jupiter (Guruḥ)
• D. Saturn (Śaniḥ)

Hint:

To remember natural friendships:
Moon -> No enemies.
Sun -> Enemies are Venus and Saturn.
Jupiter -> Enemies are Mercury and Venus.
Saturn -> Enemies are Sun, Moon, and Mars.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Planetery friendship in Jyotish is divided into two categories: 'Naisargika' (Natural) and 'Tātkālika' (Temporary). Natural friendship is a permanent relationship between planets based on their intrinsic nature and their ownership of zodiac signs. For most planets, the others are categorized as Friends (Mitra), Neutrals (Sama), or Enemies (Śatru). However, the Moon (Candra) occupies a unique position in this system because it is the significator of the mind and emotions, which ideally should be receptive to all.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
According to the foundational rules laid out by Maharṣi Parāśara, the Moon's relationship with the other planets is as follows:

1. Friends of the Moon: Sun (Sūrya) and Mercury (Budha). The Sun is the father (soul) and Mercury is the son (intellect). The Moon finds comfort with both.
2. Neutrals of the Moon: Mars (Maṅgala), Jupiter (Guru), Venus (Śukra), and Saturn (Śani). For the Moon, these planets are neither helpers nor hinderers in a natural, universal sense.
3. Enemies of the Moon: None. The Moon does not consider any planet to be its natural enemy. This is a profound philosophical statement in Jyotish: the 'Mind' (Candra) should be a mirror that reflects everything without malice.

However, this is a one-way relationship. While the Moon considers no one an enemy, other planets may consider the Moon an enemy. For example, Mercury (Budha) considers the Moon to be its enemy (partly due to the mythological story of Budha being the illegitimate son of Moon and Tara). Mercury represents the logical intellect which often clashes with the fluctuating, emotional nature of the Moon. Similarly, Saturn and Venus are also not entirely comfortable with the Moon.

But the question specifically asks about the planet that has no enemies from *its* perspective. In the Br̥hat Jātaka of Varāhamihira, it is explicitly stated: "Na candrasya kaścid śatruḥ" — there is no enemy for the Moon. This makes the Moon the most "accommodating" planet in the zodiac. Because of this, the placement of the Moon is the most vital factor in 'Guna Milana' (marriage matching), as the mind's ability to adapt (its lack of enmity) determines the longevity of relationships.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The Moon (Candraḥ) is the planet that recognizes no other planet as its natural enemy.