Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
In Jaimini Astrology, seven (or eight) planets are assigned roles called 'Cara-kārakas' (Variable Significators) based on their degrees within a sign. Unlike 'Sthira-kārakas' (Fixed significators like Sun for Father), these roles change from chart to chart. The planet that has traveled the highest number of degrees and minutes within any zodiac sign is known as the 'Ātmakāraka' (the significator of the Soul).
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The Cara-kāraka hierarchy is determined by the longitude of planets (excluding Rāhu and Kētu in the 7-planet system). The planet with the highest numerical value of minutes and seconds (regardless of the sign) takes the highest rank.
1. Ātmakāraka (AK): The planet with the highest degree. It is the king of the horoscope and represents the soul's desires, past life karma, and the primary purpose of the current incarnation. The house it occupies in the Navāṃśa chart is called 'Kārakāṃśa'.
2. Amātyakāraka (AmK): The planet with the second highest degree. It represents the 'Minister' and signifies career, wealth, and social status.
3. Bhrātrukāraka (BK): Third highest. Signifies siblings and gurus.
4. Mātrukāraka (MK): Fourth highest. Signifies mother and happiness.
5. Putrakāraka (PK): Fifth highest. Signifies children and creativity.
6. Jñātikāraka (GK): Sixth highest. Signifies enemies, relatives, and struggles.
7. Dārakāraka (DK): Lowest degree. Signifies the spouse.
The Ātmakāraka is the most important planet in Jaimini astrology. It shows the internal nature of the individual. If the AK is a benefic planet (like Jupiter), the soul is said to be refined. If it is a malefic (like Saturn), the soul may have to go through many hardships to achieve its goal. The question asks "Yah grahaḥ sarvadhikāṃśa-yuktaḥ" (The planet with the maximum degrees), which is the definition of Ātmakāraka.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The planet with the highest degrees is the Ātmakāraka.