Question

In the planetary system of Vedic Astrology, which of the following planets (Grahas) are characterized as 'Sarvadā Vakrī' (always retrograde in their motion relative to the zodiac)?
A. Śani (Saturn)
B. Rāhu
C. Sūrya (Sun)
D. Kētu
E. Bhauma (Mars)

• A. Only D, E
• B. Only A, B
• C. Only C, D
• D. Only B, D

Hint:

Shadows (Rahu/Ketu) move backward. Luminaries (Sun/Moon) move only forward. The others (Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, Saturn) can do both!

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Planetary motion in Jyotiṣa is categorized into several types: 'Mṛdu' (slow), 'Śīghra' (fast), and 'Vakra' (retrograde). Retrograde motion is an apparent motion where a planet appears to move backward in the zodiac from Earth's perspective. Most physical planets alternate between direct and retrograde motion. However, the 'shadow planets' (Chāyā Grahas), which are mathematical nodes, follow a unique pattern.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let's analyze the motion of the planets mentioned:

1. Rāhu (B) and Kētu (D): These are the North and South nodes of the Moon. They are the intersection points of the Moon's orbit and the Ecliptic. Mathematically, these points always move in a reverse direction compared to the planets. Therefore, in standard Parashari astrology, Rāhu and Kētu are termed 'Sarvadā Vakrī' (always retrograde). They move through the zodiac from Aries back to Pisces, then Aquarius, and so on. (Note: Some modern 'True Node' calculations occasionally show them as stationary or direct for brief moments, but the 'Mean Node' used in classical Jyotiṣa is always retrograde).

2. Śani (A) and Bhauma (E): These are physical planets. They move directly for most of the year and become retrograde only for specific periods when their distance from the Sun reaches certain thresholds. They are not 'always' retrograde.

3. Sūrya (C): The Sun and the Moon are 'Nitya-Gati' planets. They are never retrograde. They always move forward through the zodiac.

Rāhu and Kētu’s constant retrograde motion is symbolic of their role as agents of 'Karmic' return and past-life influences. Since they move "against the grain" of time, they represent the unconventional, the subconscious, and the results of past actions that suddenly re-emerge. In a horoscope, their placement is fixed in a 180-degree opposition, and their backward transit is essential for predicting the timing of eclipses.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Rāhu and Kētu are always retrograde (B and D).